A CLASH OF CIVILIZATIONS: An Alt-Earth Country RP [IC/OPEN]

[Ghondra]

A CLASH OF CIVILIZATIONS

OOC Thread

These are times that try men's soul. The war is over, leading to a new one, this war, different from all the others. They call this war, a cold war, the Clash of Civilizations.

---

Jackal Desert
People's Federation of Atalanta
December 13th 1949

Dr. Andrew Mann went over the calculations one last time, by the data he collected the bomb would be equal to the bomb that devastated the Schlaumany Capital, 15 kilotons of TNT in explosive power, truly a weapon of the gods, as wielded by the Son himself. "Dr. Mann, the area has been cleared of personnel"
"Up to 50km?"
"Yes sir"
"Good, don't want anybody dying of radiation poisoning today" Mann half-joked, in reality he was terrified of the possibility of radiation opening, the survivors of the bomb would live wih the scars of atomic fire forever, and their children will bear it, assuming they CAN have children to begin with.

All of a sudden the military personnel in the room stood at attention, the doctor turned about, to see the imposing figure of General Kenneth Lang, his government supervisor who just returned from a Politburo hearing, in time for the test detonation of the Federation's first Atomic Bomb. "Ah, Dr. Mann, it's good to see you again" The man smiled as he closed the distance between them to shake his hand, "And you too General, so are the tests authorized?"

"Straight to business eh doctor?" He joked, "Yes, they showed an almost perverse desire to catch up to the Ghondrans in firepower" They both chuckled as they made their way to the observation room, such was the desire of politicians.

When they arrived they found that the observation room was abuzz in activity. One mistake and 5 years of hard work and toil could disappear in a literal flash right then and there.
"Are the preparations ready Dr. Stewart?"
"Yes sir, the detonator is ready" The doctor answered, pointing to a big button in the center of the room, fittingly it was red.
"Very good, General would you like to the honors"
"Why yes Doctor, thank you for the offer"
They both made their way to the center of the room, all eyes on them.
When the button was pressed, the room was washed in a red-yellow glow, when the light dissipated, allowing them to see, they found to their amazement that a second sun materialized.

And so the Clash begins.

[The Orson Empire]

Xeros, Republic of Ozeia

Xeros was once one of the largest cities in south-eastern Ozeia, with a population of 300,000. It was a rather beautiful city, having managed to survive the death and destruction of the Second World War. However, it soon became involved in a new war- the Second Ozeian Revolution; the city was a well-known communist stronghold, and had been supplying manpower and resources to the communist war effort. The republican government had been eager to break the back of the communists by taking the city, and thus, the war had been bought to Xeros's doorstep.

The city had been under constant bombardment by republican artillery and bombers, and much of the city had been flattened. Thousands of people on both sides had been killed. However, this did break the will of the communists to fight. Around 2/3rds of the population fled the city, while the remaining 1/3rd stayed to fight the republican troops using guerrilla tactics. They had dug tunnels underneath the city to ferry more communists insurgents and resources into the city; despite the fact that the republicans had been relentlessly bombing these tunnels, the communists just kept digging more of them. The rubble provided a good environment for snipers on both sides, and the communists made use of a rather new weapon- the RPG, to destroy republican tanks and armored vehicles. Nevertheless, the fighting remained a stalemate.

While fighting continued throughout the rest of the city, the heaviest fighting occurred at the Xeros Airport, which the republican army had seized from the communist several days ago. The communists had launched a massive counter-attack with the intent of recapturing the airport, or completely destroying it if it could not be captured. Around 5,000 communist insurgents attacked the republican brigade (3,000 soldiers) manning the airport. The republicans used furniture from inside the airport to create a barrier that they could take cover behind.

The republicans had been pinned down under heavy machine gun fire from the communist side, and the soldiers attempted to retaliate, using their semi-automatic rifles to pick off various enemy soldiers. The colonel leading the brigade had desperately been trying to ask for more reinforcements on his radio, but he had not received a response.

"Do you hear me? Is anyone there?!" the colonel shouted at the radio. "We need more reinforcements! We are about to be overrun! Do you hear me?!"

And still, there was no response.

"It's no use," one of the lieutenant colonels would say. "If we do not get out of here now, they will turn us into mincemeat. We don't have time to contact command."

The colonel threw the radio down in anger, and ducked as rounds of ammunition came flying towards them.

[Republic of Coldwater]

Klymouth, Karsylvania
The chilly wind gushes along the ridge as President Waltan Dasden looks upon the bustling city. Karsylvania was a predominantly trade and commerce based nation, with immense amounts of imports and exports. It had little involvement in outside politics, and stuck to non-interventionism, hoping to not invigorate any hatred against them. The military is comparatively small, and suited for surprise attacks and a war of attrition, while most citizens are armed with a rifle, ready to defend their lands from any incursion.

It has been a few years since the Second Great War, where millions fell, and millions more bled. The scars, and the lasting legacy of wars are seen across the planet, and especially in the geopolitical world. Although Karsylvania does not meddle in international politics, and is officially neutral, they are very observant of what has happened since then. Rumors of a weapon able to harness the same powers that power the almighty sun are across the intelligence agency, but many dismiss it as a pipedream, as something that can never happen. Others think of it as something that would emit extreme levels of heat to vaporize military materiel, and only very few members of the intelligence agency actually believe that it is a weapon that can lay catastrophic damage on anything they choose.

Of course, the government is taking a break from rumors in the intelligence community, as December 15th is the 85th Anniversary of the Liberation of Klymouth, when 72,000 men, led by General Robert "Fortress" Hill finally broke the six month siege of Klymouth and dethroned the King, forming the Confederation of Karsylvania. Massive street celebrations will take place, before 72,000 men from the military will, with their formal wear and Volcanic Repeating Rifles, the weapon of the Revolutionary Army that dethroned the King, march from the northern section of Klymouth to the King's Palace, where, by convention, they will simultaneously fire three times before marching back to their garrisons.

Currently, the only prelude to celebration are the immense amount of Karsylvanian Flags flown within the city. By tomorrow, even more, and after that, the massive celebrations begin.

[Cymrea]

Kingdom of Persica

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: Foreign Affairs Ministries of Ghondra, Helvetia, Valloria, Ozeia, and Hastiaka
Re: Renewal of diplomatic relations

Your Excellencies,

The Circle of Archons has discussed continuing partnerships with our global friends and allies at length and it has been decided that the United Kingdom of Persica shall renew economic and diplomatic commitments.
With the burgeoning concerns in Ozeia and the threat to its sovereignty by Comintern insurgents, the Royal Persican Forces cannot but remain on an alert status. We shall not presume to dictate that our friends and allies should be counted on to aid in preserving Ozeian freedom from rebels, but we do remain confident that we will all act as our national consciences decide.


Ever in service,

Right Honourable Meredith Aurelia Rhys-Jones,
Praetor Extraterritorialis,
Royal Persican Senate,
for Her Majesty the Queen.

[Valloria]

Strasvingaard, Schleuzig District, Valloria

Presiding Federal Director Lakner Toberk walked briskly through the long hallways of the Presiding Directory's business wing. He was followed by several members of his administrational staff. His secretary, Désirée Sjanckler, was balancing several clipboards on her arms as she barked commands to the rest of the group. The entourage approached the massive mahogany double doors that lead into the office of the Presiding Federal Director. Toberk's guards pushed them open, nodding in respect to their employer as he passed. He sat down at his desk, watching Désirée sit across from him.

"You have a meeting with the Board of Directors to discuss the new education bill in five minutes, sir," she began.

"Uhuh," As he said it, the Presiding Director's personal butler handed him a notepad. He wrote down something, silencing Désirée for a few moments while he finished writing the reminder. He looked up, signaling that she should begin talking again.

"And then after that, you have meetings until the end of the day with several Assemblers about sponsorship for the new military initiative," she finished, letting out a breath. He made a few more notes on his pad. The phone rang. He picked it up. Whoever had called said a few words and he nodded, thanking them. The phone clicked and he put it down.

"Clear my schedule for the afternoon," he commanded.

"But sir, the Assemb—" she tried, futilely. He gave her a look like daggers.

"Clear. My. Schedule. For. This. Afternoon." he anunciated, emphasizing each word in its turn. "Get me a call with the Helvetian foreign office. I need to talk to them about an oil deal. I want to get legislation passed in the Assembly before this legislative year is over governing how our trade deal will work."

"I'll make some calls, sir."

"Good, thank you, Désirée. And then I want a call with Ozeia's leaders. I think we can achieve a compromise on those communist rebels. I dislike Ghondra as much as the next man, but commies in the neighborhood is not what I want for this country."

"As you wish, sir," she nodded, standing. The intercom buzzed as the office secretary alerted PD Toberk that the Boardmembers were here. Désirée bowed and left, taking the clipboard with her.

Presiding Federal Director Toberk sat back in his chair, sighing. He picked up the intercom and let his office secretary know that he was waiting for the Boardmembers. A single knock resounded on the door to the room. Toberk composed himself as his butler crossed the room and opened the door with a flourish. All eight Directors filed into the room and stood in a line in front of him, waiting for permission to gather at the conference table in the next room. He waved his hand, and they walked into the conference room. He stood up and entered last, taking a seat at the head of the table.

"Today, we're here to speak about the new education bill under deliberation by the Assembly. Any news?" Toberk asked.

"It looks pretty promising. However, there are some concessions that will need to be made in order for the Socialist Party to allow it. Higher pay for teachers is being demanded," said Lewis Schoonsler, Federal Director of Education.

"Which is something we can't allow," demanded Governing Director Helmut Malgopes van Schleuzig.

"Now hold on there, Helmut," Toberk soothed, "a small pay hike for teachers, say §100 a year, would probably sate the socialists. And a 1% tax increase for corporations would cover it. It's a win-win. They get their money, and we get support from the teachers. The socialists are gaining a dangerous majority with their support."

The rest of the Directors mulled it over.

"Any objections?" Silence. "Good. Schoonsler, I'm going to need you to meet with the Assemblers that were supposed to see me this afternoon."

"But sir! It's my kid's tenth birthday, I can't miss it!" The aging man fretted. Toberk cursed under his breath.

"Fine, they'd probably take offense at being sent to the Education Director, anyways." An offended look crossed Schoonsler's face. "No matter. Helmut, you're clearly not in support of this. That leaves you, Hans. You meet with the Assemblers." Hans Daenig was the Federal Director of the Interior.

"You got it, sir." Daenig replied.

"Perfect. Is there anything else that we need to discuss?" Director Toberk asked.

"Eh, we need to discuss our legislative agenda for the upcoming quarter, but that doesn't have to happen for at least another two weeks." Director Schoonsler answered.

"It's settled, then. You're dismissed." The Directors filed out of the room, leaving Toberk sitting at the conference table.

Back at his desk, the phone rang. Director Toberk sprung up to grab it, once again sitting in his comfortable leather chair. It was Désirée.

"Hello, sir. I was unable to reach the Helvetians. Perhaps a letter or telegram would suffice to get their attention?" Désirée suggested.

"That's a great idea, thank you, Désirée. Any luck with the Ozeians?"

"I haven't tried them yet, I'm at lunch right now."

"Alright then, get back to me when you make contact."

"Will do, sir."

"Bye-bye now." He put the phone back on the receiver. He rolled over to the typewriter at one of the ends of his massive desk and began to write. Two copies later, he finally had the perfect letter for the Helvetians. He smiled and handed it to his butler to be delivered to the foreign office for review.

The Right Honorable Yuji Saegusa
Prime Minister of Helvetia
Principality of Helvetia
Tokiwadai, Helvetia 10302

Greetings, Prime Minister Saegusa,

It is my honor to send you this letter in good faith. For far too long our great nations have remained distant in communications, while being friendly on an international plane. But this lack of investment in diplomatic ties confuses me. Our two nations are the largest exporters of our respective trades: oil and agriculture. It is in my view that the best interest for both of our nations is to form a trade union for two things that we desperately need from each other. Valloria is in need of your vast reserves of oil, and it has become evident that you are in need of the massive amounts of food our country produces.

It would benefit both of our countries to strengthen our unity on an international level as well. I would like to propose an alliance between Valloria and Helvetia as to strengthen both of our positions within the global community. While details of my proposition are still preliminary, I'd like to formally schedule a meeting between you and I personally at Westyrkurt, the closest of Valloria's island territories to Helvetia. Please let me know if you are willing to attend this summit, and when you would like to schedule it for. While I acknowledge both of us have busy schedules, I'm sure that we'll be able to find time in common.

Good faith,
His Honourable Excellency
Presiding Director Lakner Toberk
Federal Directive of Valloria
Strasvingaard, Valloria 22351

[Ghondra]

Victoria City, Seville Row
Prime Minister Sir Edward Bozeman
Empire of Ghondra and Gaella

The Prime Minister always starts his day with a nice cup of tea, when your job is to administrate a quarter of the World's population you need something to calm the nerves, he quite like the East Kaean brew himself, right now he was shifting through the diplomatic papers, straight from the Foreign office, it was an inter-departmental memo, notifying the conflict in Ozeia, one of their sole Atalantic allies, he didn't like what he heard, barely three months since the start of the conflict and already the factions had grouped into two blocs, the Communists and the Republicans, the government (obviously) supported the Republicans, however the communists have apparently acquired weapons of Atalantic make.

This in itself didn't surprise the aging Prime Minister, what did though was the fact that, according to a communique from the Imperial Embassy in Millerville, the Atalantans were planning a military intervention, it was a rumor, they said, but in these times the Prime Minister could not discount any possibilities, if the Atalantans had Ozeia that means they have a straight shot for the canal, he didn't need another potential conflict in his hands either, not to mention that would heavily disrupt International shipping due to the presence of a not-at-all friendly military force at the border.

He sighed, to think they were allies in the Second war, hell if it wasn't for the fact that they were communists they might still be allies, of course they were already a Superpower before that so they might still be in a cold war right now even if they were a Capitalist state, no matter, he wasn't in the mood for what-ifs, he'll leave the 'Alternate Historians' for that.

With his concern over the possible crisis in Ozeia bubbling to the surface, he began writing two letters, one to the Persicans Council of Archons, and the other to the President of Ozeia.

Imperial Diplomatic Service
-Empire of Ghondra and Gaella
"In Defens of Thine Realm"

Your Royal Majesty
Queen of the Persicans and of the Atharthans
Queen Rheannon o Rosa Regina
United Kingdom of Persica
Vanovar, Regent's Ave. 0001

Your Royal Majesty, I, Sir Edward Bozeman of the Order of the Son's Brothers, Viscount Bozeman, Prime Minister of the Empire of Ghondra, am writing this letter on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor George VI, who wishes you and your newborn boy (and his nephew) eternal health, and your realm everlasting glory and prosperity.

We, the Government of His Imperial Majesty, wishes to express our concern of the brewing crisis in our mutual ally; the Republic of Ozeia, we recently acquired intelligence that the communists rebels in Ozeia has acquired weapons of Atalantic make, unusually high-quality to be found in the hands of any rebel group, whether or not this is a sign of the People's Federation intervention in the conflict remains to be seen, however we, as fellow members of the Alliance of Nations must take action.

We propose the sending of Military advisors, supplies and weapons to the Republic of Ozeia, with the possibility of a full military intervention at some point in the future should the conflict intensifies.

We eagerly wait for your reply,

Eternally yours
Edward Bozeman,
Prime Minister of the Empire of Ghondra

[Ptolemais]

Principality of Helvetia
Noblesse Oblige

Umesato, Helvetia
House Yanagi Primary Residence

A young boy sits next to a fireplace reading a leather-bound tome undoubtedly taken from one of the bookshelves that cover the walls of the regal, yet quaint room. A click from the door causes him to pause and look up. An older man enters, closing the door behind him, and regards the young boy with a warm smile.

"You must be Issei, yes?" he asks as he hangs his heavy coat on the back of a chair and rests his briefcase on the floor.

"Yes, sir! You must be the teacher father has assigned to me!" the young boy replied enthusiastically as he leaves the tome on the floor and hops to his feet.

"Indeed. I am Jurai Takumu, but you may address me simply as Takumu. Starting today, I will be instructing you on the finer points of what it means to be a noble. By the time you leave my instruction, you will be prepared to take on the responsibility that comes with your title, young Prince. It will be a long and enlightening journey, but for today let us begin with some basics that i'm sure you are somewhat familiar with by virtue of attending your fathers court. Take a seat over here, Issei."

The young boy eagerly took up a seat at the table in the centre of the room. Takumu placed both hands on the fine mahogany surface of the table and then began his teaching through dialogue.

"As you are well aware, you are first in line for the leadership of the family, and the seventh in line for the Crown. While you will most certainly inherit the position of head of the Yanagi Family, you are a far way off from the Crown. Princess Sayaka of House Tsunemori currently holds the position of Crown Princess and, at the age of 20, is the youngest ever Crown Princess in the history of our Principality. This will most certainly ensure that she, and House Tsunemori, will have a long reign and control over the office of the Crown, unless of course she were to be struck down in the prime of her youth. This leads me to my first point; your position as a noble comes with risk. You must always be careful of those around you, because unfortunately cowardly acts of espionage do occur."

The young boy did not flinch as Takumu impressed this danger upon him, eyes which reminded Takumu of the boys father, steely and resolved.

"We will speak further of this later, but for now let us talk of the political situation of your realm. House Yanagi controls the southern tip of the Helvetian home continent. This position has been troublesome in the past, when we would be at risk of assault from all sides, but ever since the establishment of the Principality it has allowed us to prosper in relative security. We have not had to burden the hardships of war that have been constant on the borders of Houses Ichihara and Saegusa. This has placed us in the position to make up the industrial heartland of the Principality. Yanagi Sciences, the House's premier enterprise, will one day be yours to command as its CEO. As a result, it is simplest to say that Yanagi is where the majority of production occurs in Helvetia. There are exceptions, such as the Ichihara Shipyards which produce the naval vessels of the nations navies, including our own."

The young boy interrupted. "But Takumu, why would our ships be produced in Ichihara? Would that not put us at their mercy?"

Takumu nodded slowly. "Yes, that would be quite a problem if they decided to go to war with us. They would know the capabilities of our fleet down to the smallest detail. However, luckily for us, we can say that of all the Houses, Ichihara is the least of your worries. They spearhead the frequent campaigns against our neighbours to the east, which has made them the least political. As long as the Crown indulges their desires in regards to that, they do not cause trouble for the rest of the Principality. The bluntness of their nobility is quite refreshing you will come to find. Let us also not forget that if Ichihara did attack, they would have to fight the rest of the Principality. While I would rather not enjoy facing the nations fiercest and most experienced soldiers on the field of battle, they would not be able to match the might of the other Houses combined. Suffice to say, Ichihara is the House you would most like to have producing your ships without fear of their weaknesses being turned against you."

Issei was listening intently, eyes wide as if he was sucking in all the knowledge through the optical nerves.

"Now let us speak of the other Houses. As we touched on, Ichihara is the foremost military power of Helvetia, it's soldiers and sailors the most experienced, but that does not mean they have monopoly on military might. All Houses maintain standing armies, and of this I must regrettably inform you ours is most certainly the weakest. That is not to say we cannot fight, but that our peaceful position has made extensive military expansion unnecessary. House Mibu in the south is another faction that occasionally sees its share of war. They have been at an uneasy truce with the Vallorians over the sovereignty of Helvetia's southernmost island. This is a feud that goes back many centuries, even before the islands entrance into the Vallorian Directive. As a result, House Mibu maintains a significant standing army and navy. To maintain their edge, they have even assisted Ichihara in their military campaigns in the east, gaining valuable experience. While it would be undesirable to go to war with Valloria, it is uncertain how House Mibu will act in the future, which could cause many problems for our Principality."

"But House Mibu could not go to war with Valloria on their own, could they? Doesn't the Crown decide that?" the boy asked with intense curiosity.

"The Crown does maintain prerogative over foreign affairs, but when it comes to offensive war Princess Sayaka has no more legal control over actions taken by the other Houses then you or I do. The Crown only holds military authority during defensive wars, where it can summon all the might of Helvetia against the invaders. However, the Crown and the other Houses exert considerable influence on each other. While the Crown has indulged Ichihara in its campaigns of the east against the small, unaligned nations there, challenging Valloria could result in disastrous consequences, so the Crown would not likely provide formal consent to such a campaign. While House Mibu could act alone, acting without formal consent would be taken very seriously by the rest of Helvetia, as the consequences of such an action would likely be felt by the entire nation."

Takumu paused as a servant brought in a set of tea. He thanked her and took a quick sip before continuing.

"Speaking of the Crown, it is currently held by House Tsunemori in the north. When it comes to the political administration of the Principality, it is fair to say House Tsunemori has been dominant. There are two reasons for this. First, they have had the longest hold on power in the Principality and are skillful diplomats. They have perfected the art of public administration. Second, and probably most importantly, they control the largest area and population in Helvetia. In particular, the control the untold riches of the northern Arctic region, which we are only truly beginning to comprehend. This will ensure their power remains in tact in the future. For now, they settle for being the largest oil producing component of the nation, feeding directly into our own factories and sailing across the ocean to far away lands. However, this does not mean House Tsunemori is dictatorial. You will find them quite agreeable on most occasions, and our House has strong ties to them. Our industrial base and their resources work as an organic being."

Takumu paused once more as another servant entered the room to announce that dinner would be held shortly.

"I see we are almost out of time. Let me just conclude briefly with House Saegusa. This does not mean they are not important, to the contrary, I would advise great caution in your dealings with them. They are a cunning House, and have no doubt in my mind been at the fore of many unfortunate accidents that have occurred to prominent nobles in our history. The Saegusa currently hold the Office of the Prime Minister. This is a position appointed by the Crown to serve as the nobles representative at the National Legislature, where the commons elect their representatives. While this may not seem to be a glorious office, it comes with the power of public opinion. The Prime Minister can influence the public with great leeway and advocate for certain policies. However, the Prime Minister is always an appointee of the Crown and so must represents its interests. Still, there have been cases where the Prime Minister has exercised power in such a way as contrary to the goals of the Crown. The Saegusa hold this office simply because they have supported the Tsunemori, who were on the verge of collapse after the death of the Late Crown Princess Tsunemori well before her time, which threw House Tsunemori into crisis as Princess Sayaka was the next eligible to assume the throne, but is much too young to gain legitimacy. I will conclude on this note, you will grow up in quite an interesting time, but also a time of peril for our nation. With such a young Crown, conspiracies are afoot. House Tsunemori is desperate to retain its hold on power and as a result it has been weakened. Other Houses will be making their moves and it could result in tragedy. I will be your instructor through this time, as well as an adviser to your father, and you will undoubtedly learn much before you ascend to the head of the family. Hurry along now, I hear the dinner bell. We will talk again another day."

The boy, still soaking in all this new information, slowly rose and then took off out of the room. Takumu finished his tea in one great sip before getting up and putting on his coat. As he picked up his suitcase, he thought of what a great man the young Prince would turn out to be, and he would ensure that he was well-prepared for the dangerous game of Helvetian politics.

Tokiwadai, Helvetia
Office of the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Yuji Saegusa sat back in his chair as he went through a small pile of papers, throwing each one onto the desk as he finished with it. Most were diplomatic messages, congratulating him on his "election" as Prime Minister. Sure, the National Assembly had to officially ratify him, but it was the Crown who appointed him. You could hardly call it an election. As he casually sifted through the letters, he finally found one that was not a formal congratulation.

"Oh-ho, this is big. Valloria, eh?" he mumbled to himself. His retainer sat off to the side, but perked up as the Prime Minister spoke.

"Valloria you say? What do they want?" the retainer asked.

"They want to formalize our exchange relations of oil for agriculture. It would be nice to ensure a security of our food source. The fall of Schlaumany has made such imports unreliable." The Prime Minister stated matter-of-factly.

"That would be a hard sell to Mibu. I was under the impression they were still interested in pursuing a military solution to the question of their island dispute." the retainer responded firmly.

The Prime Minister laughed. "If House Mibu gets us into a war with Valloria, they may as well shoot each one of us in the foot. No, both feet for good measure. We won't be walking anywhere after that bout."

"...Then you will contact the Crown Office and advise them that we should pursue a deal with-" the retainer was interrupted.

"The Crown Office? You mean you actually believe that little twerp Sayaka has any sort of legitimacy? We supported her so I could get this position and get some actual work done. House Tsunemori wanted the Crown to continue the facade that they were in power. Fine with me, but that's all it is, an illusion. We'll make our move before she gets too comfortable. The only problem will be her retainers. Get me a diplomatic line to Valloria, I'm making a, hmm, what should I call it? Oh, yes, an "executive decision" to pursue negotiations. Don't inform the Crown." The Prime Minister said playfully. His retainer simply got up and left the office with a worried look on his face as he went to get the line.

Diplomatic Messages

Presiding Director Lakner Toberk
Federal Directive of Valloria
Strasvingaard, Valloria

Greetings Director Toberk

It would be my pleasure to explore an agreement that would formalize our trade of Helvetian oil for Vallorian foodstuffs. While we value Vallorian relations, at this time we cannot commit to an alliance, because that would be a complicated matter here at home. As you know, we remain unaligned due to various circumstances. We hope we can still conclude an economic agreement, as food security is important for Helvetia and I am sure energy security is important to Valloria. I will attend a meeting with you are the proposed location so we may discuss this in further detail.

Faith, hope and honour,
Yuji Saegusa
Prime Minister of Helvetia
Tokiwadai, Helvetia

Right Honourable Meredith Aurelia Rhys-Jones
Praetor Extraterritorialis of Persica
Royal Persican Senate

Greetings Praetor Meredith,

Helvetia is willing to discuss enhanced economic relations, but as a matter of our foreign policy we cannot commit to actions against either bloc. I hope you can understand our position.

Faith, hope and honour,
Yuji Saegusa
Prime Minister of Helvetia
Office of the Prime Minister

[Hastiaka]

Federal Imperial Kingdom of Hastiaka
The Hastiakan Union
聖地 | 人民同盟

---

Bastion of the Potentates, Nanjiang

Nanjiang
High Imperial Capitol, Shrine of the Potentate
天国の市内実力の神社


''Potentate Shikoku, the oil production has been increased to 5%. This will surely spark oil price decrease across the continent.'' Komon Jimmu noted the Potentate. Shikoku is an old man. He reigned for 25 successful years. He rules Seichi, the local name for Hastiaka. It means 'Holy Land' in Hastiakanese language. Seichi or Hastiaka is one of the world's leading oil and warfare supplier. Shikoku, being at the age of 72 is still known as one of the world's finest diplomats. During the First World War, he negotiated peace deals between the two opposing factions.

The Potentate faced Jimmu and muttered ''Mr. Jimmu, do you know what my ancestor, Potentate Kirukoku said about the outside world?'' Potentate Shikoku gently asked his personal Komon.

''Potentate, as far as i remember, he said that '... The outsiders look upon Hastiakan treasures with jealousy. They crave our artifacts and the rich history of our nation. They can never be trusted as such, they would go as far to sacrifice their own people just to justify their little useless wars' ''

the Potentate smiled and took a cup of tea and poured it into a bowl of water.

''Before, this water is pure. Now, it has turned it's color and in a matter of time, the water will be an entirely different element.'' Jimmu raised his shoulder as a sign of confusion. ''Oh Jimmu, you'll never understand that time will change history and nothing can change that.'' Jimmu nodded and left the premises.

Shikoku was alone. He looked at the skyline of Nanjiang. He knew that 50 years ago, when oil was not discovered, Hastiaka was an undeveloped country. Although culture blooms across the skylines of the cities, his country never had cars nor steam trains. But ever since they discovered oil, in only 5 years time, Hastiaka transformed into one of the most technologically superior states in the world.

Nanjiis on transport buses and private vehicles

Hastiaka was never involved in a war in a hundred years. Hastiakan Military is one of the smallest in terms of number. With a mere 100,000 personnel, the Hastiakan military is renowned for its elite soldiers and cutting edge equipment. However, what lacks in the active forces are replenished in reserve. 500,000 men are in reserves and are currently scattered across the country. AA guns are stationed in every city in the country and prototype surface to air missiles are being deployed in key regions for defensive operations. At an event of an invasion, the scorched earth tactic is initiated and the military will destroy every oil depots and factories across the country. This also further decreases the chances of invasion by foreign powers.

Jinsei AFB, 14 miles from Nanjiang

''Generals, Admirals and Superintendents of the Constabulary. I present to you the Tannusami Defense Program. '' Kotei Atusabi, the head of the Hastiakan Technology Division gladly presented to the audience.

The audience was small. Thirty men in total. All of which are the highest military officers in the country. They began to clap as Kotei unfurls the curtain. As he was finished unfurling the curtain, the men were awed.

''Professor Kotei, what is this?''

''It's top secret sir.''

''Is it a nuclear bomb?''

''Again, i cannot divulge more information about this classified defense program. I only answer to the Potentate himself.''

''Come on Kotei, i'm sure that the Potentate trusts us.''

''It's used for destroying the oil in case of foreign invasion''

''What?! Who approved this?'' shouted a Constabulary chief

''Both the Potentate and the National Congress''

''How? the...''

''Sir, i believe that is all. Please leave the premises''

Nanjicorp Imperial Oil Production Platforms, Hastiakan Exclusive Economic Zone, Ajantic Ocean

The Oil Platforms were gigantic. The grotesque size of the Rigs meant that there is a vast oil reserve beneath the waters. The Nanjicorp Oil Platforms are one of the largest oil platforms in the world. These vast untapped oil reserves have been recently tapped just months ago. Now, the Potentate ordered oil production to be risen up to 5%. Which even makes world oil prices lower.

''Increase oil production to 5%?'' asked the chairman

''Yes sir, the Potentate has ordered it.''

[Possibly WIP]

[Cymrea]

Kingdom of Persica

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: Edward Bozeman, Prime Minister of the Empire of Ghondra
Re: Ozeia

Prime Minister,

Her Majesty Queen Rhiannon thanks you for your kind words and wishes to convey her own warm regards for you and yours.

The Queen and her Circle of Archons have discussed the situation brewing in Ozeia and it has been decided that Persica will support the rightful Ozeian government; we shall mobilise ground forces stationed in West Schlaumany, while bolstering those occupying forces with supplemental units here in Bretton. These will be supported with a squadron of the new jet fighters that the Ghondran/Persican corporation Bretonnian Aerospace Engineering (BAE) Systems has been developing, and at least one Rhunic carrier group. Should a further escalation prove necessary, Persica shall answer as part of the Alliance of Nations.


Ever in service,

Right Honourable Meredith Aurelia Rhys-Jones,
Praetor Extraterritorialis,
Royal Persican Senate,
for Her Majesty the Queen.

---

To: Yuji Saegusa, Prime Minister of Helvetia

Prime Minister,

Her Majesty Queen Rhiannon wishes to convey her warm regards for you and yours, and to all of Helvetia.

The Queen and her Circle of Archons are delighted at the prospect of enhancing our economic ties, and will be submitting to the appropriate departments proposals for reduced tariffs and increased trade between our realms. Further, Persica understands the Helvetian desire for neutrality in the matter of foreign conflicts; it was not so long ago Persica held very much the same perspective. However, with the fall of Schlaumany and the consequent care and custody of that nation being necessary for and incumbent those responsible parties, Persica is well and truly involved abroad.

I believe I may speak confidently for both Persica and our ally Ghondra when I state that new and/or expanded Helvetian business endeavours in West Shlaumany would be most welcomed, and could greatly benefit the Schlauman people.


Ever in service,

Right Honourable Meredith Aurelia Rhys-Jones,
Praetor Extraterritorialis,
Royal Persican Senate,
for Her Majesty the Queen.

[Reborn Hiigara]

United Kushan Empire
Western lands
Kiith Paktu territory
Paktu Capital 'Majiir'
Central compound
Audience chamber

Kim Paktu-Sa, a man loved and feared by not just his people but also by the many traders and tourists, arriving in Kushan territory by any method but by land, sat with his legs crossed on a slightly raised dias upon the finest of cushions drinking tea as one of many freighter captains pleaded with him. "Please excellency, no other ports are as strict and you have searched my ship, my crew, even my cargo four times now" pleaded the stout man as Kim looked impassively on "these are unfair and discriminatory, your people are not searched nearly as much and our docking fees have risen sharply in the last six years. Ghondra will hear of this and they will act".

"I am a busy man and have no time for your baseless accusations". Calmly replied Kim "my people have their ships thoughraly searched, they just don't complain about it and the docking fees have gone up because our funds are begining to deplete".

"But my ship" began the Ghondran captain.

"Is continully searched because several sections are repeatedly off limits and several of your crew mysteriously fall ill whenever port inspectors arrive which is highly suspiscious and because it has happened a fourth time" cut in Kim "your ship and its cargo are impounded, whilst you and your crew are under arrest for suspiscious activities. Becore you open your mouth to complain, you signed the forms when you docked agreeing to Kiith Paktu port regulations and this is permitted by said regulations. Until you are cleared of all charges Ghondra cannot do a thing to help you".

As he finished speaking an aide who had quetly entered the room leaned down to whisper to him "Kiith-Sa, the Diamid has called a meeting immediately, you must attend". Kim Paktu-Sa sighed quetly to himself as he gestured for the guards to take away the still protesting captain "I suppose there's no avoiding it then" he said standing which was the silent signal for his court to bow and leave "summon my car, I shall depart at once".

[Ghondra]

Naval Station Alaric
Rhodes Island, Empire of Ghondra and Gaella
0500 Hours GMT, January 11th 1951

The biting cold northern wind was torture for Captain John Danes, he was waiting for his squad to file inside the MDC-22 Skyranger, a four engine piston transport plane, capable of carrying up to 50 personnel at once. It was perfect for limited number deployments, there were 100 of them being deployed to Ozeia, and he and his platoon had the honor of being the first to be deployed in-country, they were, as dubbed by the newly formed Imperial Secret Intelligence Service, (ISIS) Special Operators.

John sighed, how did it come to this? He was once part of the 5th Ranger Regiment, they were one of the first-in in Atalanta, landed on the canal and retook it, he and the regiment was surrounded, cut off from reinforcement, and the Atalantans came, they saved their collective asses, hell without them he would probably be 6 feet under, far far away from home. And now? They were practically at war, a cold war. He threw away the cigarette in his mouth and began to order his men to file in. Their destination?

War.

[Republic of Coldwater]

Klymouth, Karsylvania
December 15th, 1949, 8:32AM

Just as the temperature decreases to six above zero, citizens across Karsylvania converge upon the bustling capital. Roads are full of cars as people from all across the country drive to the city. A few miles out of the downtown, reenactors reenact the Battle of Klymouth, including the famous Cavalry charge, where Cavalry Commander A.S Stuart and 1,000 Cavaliers were able to completely penetrate the line of Imperial Infantry, and then rhode behind the enemy lines to distort the enemy and allow for a successful flank, and eventually the retreat to Klymouth. It was said that it was this battle which allowed for the final breaking of the Siege of Klymouth and the overthrow of the Imperial Government.

Downtown, music presides over the city as the citizens from not only Klymouth, but across the nation cheer. They wave their flags and sing patriotic songs, while making way for military soldiers to march down, with their formal attire, and Volcanic Carbines. The iconic image of the "Rebel Soldier" had circulated following the successful overthrow of the King, to the point that it has become an archetype in late 19th century Karsylvanian literature. In their suits of gray, with golden buttons, so valiant and so gallant, they proudly march along the historical district, climb up the acropolis, and to the Presidential House, which was the King's Palace before it. Firing three rounds, the rattle, the deafening roar rocks the city as men, women and children cheer for liberation day. The National Anthem was played, and many sing out the lyrics, detailing how Rebel forces marched north to flank Klymouth, and sieged the city, thereby bestowing liberty upon the repressed people of Karsylvania.


1:30PM

Imperial Reenactors fire their rifles upon Rebel Reenactors

A few miles away, the reenactment of the Battle of Goldwing Gap comes to the close, as Imperial Reenactors retreat from Goldwing Gap, and back into the city. From there, Rebel Reenactors march up, and the city would witness a reenactment of the battle. The Cavalry was first to go, with their swift horses they charge east, towards the city, while infantry march. This would take one hour, but onlookers follow them, in their cars, or otherwise, they witness how the soldiers marched to the city, and fought, as they sang their songs and recited their chants, and let out their "Freedom Yell", so deafening and high-pitched, it instilled fear in the boldest of Imperial Soldiers.

3:40AM

Reenactors within Klymouth, posing for images

With the march completed, the reeancted battle begins. In the Post-Hamic Revivalist (OOC: Basically Post-Greek Revivalist) architecture, with tall pillars and white buildings, so glamorous, with the tall trees and green grass. Despite the cold wind, the reenactors continue on, as small platoons fire upon small platoons, as they leverage the buildings as flanking tools, as linear tactics that once dominated warfare become obsolete, as concentrated firepower and small-unit tactics become the most useful. This would, for the Karsylvanian Military, end the idea of large, linear units, but small, flexible units that can operate discreetly, and ones that can strike the enemy by surprise

[Cymrea]

Persican Forces Base Frisia
Near the southern border of West Schlaumany
0545 hours local time, 12 January 1951

The road was a ribbon of pale gravel four lanes wide. Despite being a primary motorway, however, there was no civilian traffic upon it this morning. Instead, a long column of Centurion tanks bearing the markings of the Lord Querica Cavalry Regiment rolled to the port’s expansive docks from the large garrison north of the city, where the armour was based. The tanks were being loaded onto transports that would ferry them to the northern shores of Ozeia. They couldn’t take the overland route, for that ran through East Schlaumany which was firmly controlled and jealously defended by Persica’s Comintern rivals, Atalanta. So they would cross the wide bay to meet up with the infantry companies that were being flown over in big Argosy transports.

Escorting and defending the convoy would be much of the Ostian fleet; the Vanguard-class battleship HMS Virtuous, along with no fewer than twenty frigates and twelve destroyers, would protect the vulnerable armour, supplemented by continual combat air patrols from HMS Ark Royal laying just over the horizon with her carrier group. The tides and currents on the Ostian Ocean coast of the Atalantan continents were notoriously rough – all that choppy water would ensure the crossing was tortuous for the crews in their tanks.

In the grey mists of predawn, white dust kicked up from the road mingled with the thick black exhaust of the Centurions’ heavy diesel engines. From the open hatch of one of those venerable tanks protruded the upper body of the regiment’s commanding officer, Colonel Jefferson Barlow Aries. At six and a half feet tall with a broad chest and shoulders, the colonel was positively heroic in scale. He wore the standard green and black camouflage BDUs, and under his arm he held a polished hickory swagger stick, capped with steel at each end. A silver-rimmed monocle covered one eye – his good eye; the other was a sphere of black marble, set with a stone the pale blue as his iris. And instead of the tanker’s black beret, he wore a large Stetson decorated with the gold braiding of a cavalry officer. The Stetson was an historical holdover from North Atalanta’s colonial era, once worn by Karsylvanian cavalry when the frontiers were wild and lawless. Aries wore it as a respectful gesture to those fearless men who tamed a continent from horseback.

The squat warehouses of Frisia’s port district cast broad morning shadows and the avenues were mostly shaded. A tenacious carpet of fog still hugged the ground. Early as it was, there were few residents on the street. The handful of brave souls who were out of doors moved quickly and quietly. The loudest sound was of the Centurions themselves, roaring and grumbling as they came. As the colonel’s tank made its approach to the transport waiting at the sloped concrete launch, a small party of Frisian city officials and their retinues stood on the adjacent pier. Aries came to full attention, eyes left, towards the mayor and his aldermen, and saluted in the Persican fashion, with right fist clenched over the heart. The Frisians returned the salute with thin smiles and nods. They weren’t happy to see the garrison weakened, so close to the border with East Schlaumany. Aries understood this, but Persica was a nation of conscience, and the Crown was not about to allow Commie rebels to overrun and ruin Ozeia – Oz, it was already being dubbed by the boots on the ground.

The colonel’s iron mount rolled aboard the transport, taking its place among its seven armoured brothers. The rear ramp was hauled up and secured by three deckhands, and the transport powered forward to join another column, this one of the shallow-drafted ferries. Out on the open water waited their escort: Tribal- and Leopard-class frigates, and Daring-class destroyers, sleek swords of the sea.

Later that morning, when the convoy was fully assembled, the Royal Persican Navy in the Ostian Ocean cradled and carried their battle brothers and sisters of the Army across the tremulous waters to Ozeia. Under his breath, Colonel Aries hummed a tune from an old movie, making his own lyrics in his mind.

We’re off to whip the commies…the terrible commies of Oz….”

[The Orson Empire]

20 miles south of Osore, Ozeia
January 1951

By 1951, the was between the Ozeian Communist Front and the republican government had reached its climax. The war had been going on for three years now, and the communists had control of much of the southern portion of Ozeia. They had developed a formidable military, and they even had their own air force. This had allowed the communists to switch from using guerrilla tactics and waging a more conventional war against the republicans. Their support had grown tremendously to 40% of the Ozeian population. Although both sides were exhausted, the republicans were considering a compromise with the communists. The war had caused hundreds of thousands of casualties, and the death toll continued to rise day after day, and the republican forces were beginning to crumble. However, foreign involvement from Persica and Ghondra could turn the tide of the war and allow the republicans to gain the upper hand.

In December, the communists had began the Winter Offensive- a massive offensive straight into the heart of the republic. The republican forces had abandoned their campaign in southern Ozeia, and focused on defending republican territory from attack. The communists had captured several major republican cities, and Osore, the capital of the republic itself, had been threatened, as 100,000 communist soldiers had advanced within 20 miles of the city in mid January. Heavy fighting ensued in the forests outside of the city, as the republican forces desperately tried to stop the communists. Thousands of republican soldiers and dozens of tanks, armored vehicles and artillery poured into Osore from the north in order to defend the city. The city was put on lock-down, and no one was allowed to enter or leave the city.

Suddenly, several squadrons of communist fighters and bombers had made it into the city, although they were under heavy fire from anti-aircraft guns. Republican aircraft met them in combat, and soon, a massive dogfight ensued. Air raid sirens were sounded in the city, and civilians were ordered to get to a bomb shelter. Panic ensued throughout the streets as people tried to scramble to their nearest bomb shelter.

At the Parliament building, President Hosea Ferron, who had been trying to get in contact with Persica and Ghondra, had immediately made his way to a bomb shelter underneath the building once the city was under attack. Parliament, which was in session, was also evacuated underground.

[Whiteshore]

Millerville, People's Federation of Atalanta
February 14, 1951
In the annual Revolution Day Parade, the leaders of the People's Federation of Atalanta were showing off their latest military equipment such as the M46 and M47 Mediums, M41 Bulldog Light Tank, M34 Heavy Tank, and new Fighter Jets and a few B-47 Stratojets as well, they will be the Vanguard of the People's Federation's new model army for the Future War. The People's Federation were showing off it's power to prove to the World that it was one of the most powerful countries in the world.

Later that same day
Chief of Staff of the People's Armed Forces Michael Davidson sent a telegram to the Ozeian Communist leader regarding arms shipments and "Volunteer" fighters

To:The leader of the Ozeian Communists
From: Field Marshal Michael Davidson

Comrade (insert name of Ozeian Communist leader), I am pleased to inform you that the People's Federation will send you the following weapons:
704 M23 Medium Tanks
656 M26 Medium Tanks
126 M29 Heavy Tanks
464 M36 Tank Destroyers
252 M40 SPGs
670 M24 Chafee Light Tanks
70 M46 Medium Tanks
40,000 BARs
70,000 M1 Carbines
10,000 M2 Machine Guns
50,000 M1 Garands
500 155mm Howitzers
300 F-100 Fighter Jets
70 F-86 Sabres
and 50 F-80 Shooting Stars

In addition, 12,000 "volunteer" fighters will assist your just, rightful cause, Comrade.

[Cymrea]

Osore, capital of Ozeia
3 February 1951

“Fire!” bellowed Colonel Aries. His iron mount spoke thunderously from its 20-pounder gun; three seconds later, that 84-millimetre word fell upon the commie tank like a war god’s hammer. All at once, the Atalantan M26, painted in rebel markings, bloomed like a fiery flower.

The gunner called back, “Direct hit, sir!”

For the past three weeks, the Lord Querica Cavalry Regiment – Lord Q’s, for short – had been rooting the insurgents of the so-called Ozeian Communist Front from the capital. The commies’ initial push into Osore had been stalled when squadrons of Persican and Ghondran fighters had achieved air superiority. The new BAE Javelins had swept the slower OzCom jets clear from the sky, clearing the way for tactical bombing of the more heavily fortified insurgent strongholds. The rebels might have done better, but their pilots were less experienced and flying the old Atalantan F-100s – the People’s Federation weren’t about to give out their newer F-86 Sabres, still a formidable foe for the Javelins.

With the skies covered, the Persican heavy cavalry had charged into the north side of Osore, smashed the redoubts that were still being constructed by rebel forces, and set the OzCom armour and infantry scrambling to regroup. The commies finally managed to rally at the southern outskirts of the city, and now it was degenerating into a slugfest. Persican light infantry dropped from passing air transports and helicopters, and Ghondran mechanised troops rolled in reinforcements for the republican army, both to take strategic locations; and all the while, the Lord Q’s smashed anything bearing the red star of the rebels.

“Good shooting, Denny!” Aries shouted to the gunner over the roar of the Centurion. “Sinclair, get us clear, old boy!” The driver punched the accelerator and the tank lurched forward. Mobility was absolutely pivotal in a tank, Aries knew. To stop for too long – which was seconds at most – was to invite a quick and bloody death from anything rightfully frightened by enemy armour. The colonel had devised a tactic over his long years as a tank commander, one derived from the caracole utilised by horse cavalry. In place of the wheel-lock pistols were his 20-pounder main guns and .30-calibre Browning machine guns; his Centurions turned wide circles around their targets, always moving and always bringing fresh guns to bear on their enemies. The tactic had limited effect in the confines of the city itself, but out here in the rural areas, the open ground was much more accommodating.

Aries caught sight of another M26 just as it fired its main gun. The shell hit the ground ten metres to their right, sending up a plume of smoke and dirt. His vision obscured, he popped the top hatch to get a look with his own good eye. Bracing himself against the bumps as his mount continued accelerating, Aries cast his gaze to the right. The enemy loader must be a bloody prodigy, he thought. They’re almost ready to fire again.

He watched as the stadiametric sights on the enemy’s gun tried to line up Aries’ Centurion. It was going to be close.

The M26 fired, a flash of red and orange. By the time the plume of coal-black smoke spewed forth, the shell had already landed. In an instant, the Viridian Cross – the Persican flag – was simply gone from the rear of Aries’ mount. A small mountain of dirt fountained up thirty metres to his left and rear.

Colonel Aries growled in stubborn irritation at his near-demise. Even as he hollered down to Denny to line up a shot, two other Centurions in the squadron fired within an eyeblink of each other. The colonel’s would-be killers were now an expanding ball of flame and thick armour shards.

Dust tails could be seen over the next rise. Tireless in his hunt, Colonel Aries barked into the radio to his command. “Tally-ho! Eleven o’clock! For the Queen and Persica…charge!”

[Valloria]

-snip-

[Reborn Hiigara]

United Kushan Empire
Central Mountains
Kiith Nabaal Territory
En-route to Tiir
Private aircraft of Paktu Kiith-Sa

Kim Paktu gazed out the window of the aircraft at the column of black smoke rising in the distance from Saju-Ka, from the residences of those left behind by the invaders and those who had fled there in search of a better life. It was common knowledge that occasionally the heretics would mock the Shimmering Path but never before like this, before they had thrown stones or disturbed worship or any number of other small things, but to depict even the tiniest piece of Sajuuk was heresy of the highest order going against the holiest of scrolls. From what he had been told the city was in chaos as city wide manhunts ensued after one individual had painted Sajuuk on the side of a temple during the night even labelling Sajuuk, never before had such an atrocity occurred nor had the religious Kiithid whipped themselves in penance so much in recent years. "Tell me what is the rumoured solution to the rioting in our sacred city" asked Kim Paktu causing both servants near him to tense thinking on what to say " I said, tell me the rumours".

"W-w-well lord, the rumour is that the army is to be deployed" came the scared response of the young woman behind him.

"It's possible, that would require a vote and could be why this session has been called" mused Kim.

"Lord, I have heard that Kiith Soban are intervening and will find the heretics to bring them before the Diamid for judgement" came the response of an older woman to his side.

"Good, I shall enjoy delivering judgement upon those who would break the greatest of our laws so callously' said Kim smirking to himself.

United Kushan Empire
Central Mountains
Kiith Gaalsien territory
Gaalsien Capital 'Saju-Ka'
Streets

16 Model-3 APC's moved through the streets parting the crowds before them, suddenly stopping they disgorged elite Sobani troops who immediately forced rioters to the ground and began house to house searches for the heretics. The troops slowly moved between the building occasionally dragging out struggling people, ripping families apart, throwing children into the raving hordes of citizens ignoring cries for help, people pleading for mercy especially from those the invaders left behind with neither the money nor the permission to leave. In some places the crowds beat the soldiers to the families and had to be arrested or the soldiers had to begin firing into the crowds to maintain order though in some places summary executions were carried out much to the delight of the crowds though in comparison to the punishment that would likely be given to the heretics by the Diamid these were small mercies.

Across the holy city transport vehicles were heavily laden with those who do not follow the Shimmering Path to be taken to Tiir fro judgement by the Diamid with those Kushan who were arrested likely on their ways to receive little more than a slap on the wrist and instructions not to do that again. The soldiers however would remain for some time to maintain city-wide order as the Gaalsien police forces were too busy whipping themselves in search of penance for not preventing such heresy and for not having removed he heretics long ago. This incident though would have empire-wide repercussions as heretics across Kushan territory are hunted down to be brought to justice, the only ones safe being those who do not have a home in the Kushan Empire, refugees are even beginning to appear in order to make the long journeys to safety in other nations.

[The Orson Empire]

Osore, Ozeia
February 1951

As Persican and Ghondran forces began to intervene in the Second Ozeian Revolution, the OzCom's Winter Offensive began to stall. At Osore, OzCom's F-100 jets and bombers were shot down by F-86 Sabres, and the communists had been forced to end their air campaign over the city. Republican tanks, artillery, and armored vehicles worked with the Persican and Ghondran units to combat the OzCom's M26 tanks (which had been given to them by Atalanta) and their artillery. Nevertheless, OzCom soldiers had made effective use of the RPG to disable and destroy Persican Centurions and other tanks.

While the communists had been pushed out of the city, they nevertheless continued to surround Osore. While the Persican heavy cavalry may have routed rebel forces on the north side of Osore, OzCom quickly retaliated with numerous tanks and armored vehicles; while the OzCom tanks were inferior to Persican tanks, the communists hoped that shear numbers would overwhelm the Persicans. Both sides had built hundreds of kilometers of opposing trenches and bunkers around Osore, and the battle had soon turned into a siege. The communists had also set up AA guns in order to shoot down enemy aircraft, since their air force had been forced to retreat.

OzCom had dedicated the full force of their offensive towards Osore, while the republicans had dedicated everything they had to defending the city; the city was surrounded by 30 OzCom divisions (600,000 soldiers), while 40 republican divisions (800,000 soldiers) defended Osore, making it the largest battle of the war so far. Numerous divisions had been pulled from other fronts and to Osore. Tens of thousands of soldiers had been killed or wounded, while many were reported missing. The carnage was incredible, as both sides attempted to grind down the other.

The situation inside Osore was no better. The city was completely surrounded by enemy forces, meaning that no food or supplies could get in by land. The amount of aircraft available to the republic was insufficient to meet food demands, meaning that thousands of people were now starving. Some people killed their own pets and cooked them, and others resorted to eating their clothing for sustenance. OzCom had also destroyed the city's power plants during their bombing raids, meaning that there was no electricity. In order to keep war during the relatively cold winter, people were forced to burn wood.

Parliament and President Ferron, who had fled the city weeks ago, promised that an end to the siege would come soon. OzCom had been stretched thin and was "running out of steam", as President Ferron put it, and now that the republic was getting foreign assistance, it would only be a matter of time before OzCom pulled the plug.

[Valloria]

Osore, Ozeia
February 1951

As Persican and Ghondran forces began to intervene in the Second Ozeian Revolution, the OzCom's Winter Offensive began to stall. At Osore, OzCom's F-100 jets and bombers were shot down by F-86 Sabres, and the communists had been forced to end their air campaign over the city. Republican tanks, artillery, and armored vehicles worked with the Persican and Ghondran units to combat the OzCom's M26 tanks (which had been given to them by Atalanta) and their artillery. Nevertheless, OzCom soldiers had made effective use of the RPG to disable and destroy Persican Centurions and other tanks.

While the communists had been pushed out of the city, they nevertheless continued to surround Osore. While the Persican heavy cavalry may have routed rebel forces on the north side of Osore, OzCom quickly retaliated with numerous tanks and armored vehicles; while the OzCom tanks were inferior to Persican tanks, the communists hoped that sheer numbers would overwhelm the Persicans. Both sides had built hundreds of kilometers of opposing trenches and bunkers around Osore, and the battle had soon turned into a siege. The communists had also set up AA guns in order to shoot down enemy aircraft, since their air force had been forced to retreat.

OzCom had dedicated the full force of their offensive towards Osore, while the republicans had dedicated everything they had to defending the city; the city was surrounded by 30 OzCom divisions (600,000 soldiers), while 40 republican divisions (800,000 soldiers) defended Osore, making it the largest battle of the war so far. Numerous divisions had been pulled from other fronts and to Osore. Tens of thousands of soldiers had been killed or wounded, while many were reported missing. The carnage was incredible, as both sides attempted to grind down the other.

The situation inside Osore was no better. The city was completely surrounded by enemy forces, meaning that no food or supplies could get in by land. The amount of aircraft available to the republic was insufficient to meet food demands, meaning that thousands of people were now starving. Some people killed their own pets and cooked them, and others resorted to eating their clothing for sustenance. OzCom had also destroyed the city's power plants during their bombing raids, meaning that there was no electricity. In order to keep war during the relatively cold winter, people were forced to burn wood.

Parliament and President Ferron, who had fled the city weeks ago, promised that an end to the siege would come soon. OzCom had been stretched thin and was "running out of steam", as President Ferron put it, and now that the republic was getting foreign assistance, it would only be a matter of time before OzCom pulled the plug.

April 1951
Strasvingaard, Valloria
Presiding Directory
Presiding Director Lakner Toberk was tired. The population was upset about this war in Ozeia. They were scared that the war could spread. Valloria was becoming unsustainable. Their agricultural export deals with Ghondra and Helvetia were weighing on their ability to guarantee FederAid to Ozeia, which had resulted in an international condemnation: Valloria was being blamed for the starving in Osore. His popularity was declining severely, at only 12%. It was clear that he would not be re-elected in November. Valloria's GDP surplus was running out, and the country would have to borrow from someone else, something Valloria had not done since the days of the revolutionary war in the 1680s and 90s. Valloria had withdrawn all military support for Ozeia months ago, as communist insurgents in Douglia had diverted their intentions. President Ferron of Ozeia was also resisting Valloria's pressure to join the Directive because Valloria reneged slightly on their promise.

The Assembly was ready to vote to end FederAid to Ozeia entirely, and leave them to be preyed upon by Persica and Ghondra. Presiding Director Toberk was loathe to allow that to happen. But there was nothing he could do. Members of his own party, the Social Democratic Coalition, had broken party line and voted for several FederAid cutback bills that had weakened both Toberk's perceived power and his actual power over his party. Since Valloria was no longer able to provide for it's fellow Directive members, those that are part of it were fleeing en masse. Out of the 104 nations that were in the Directive at the end of WWII, only 73 remained. The Board of Directors had directly challenged his authority multiple times over the past three months, vetoing his decisions twice and refusing to cave into his demands thrice more. Toberk felt like he was losing what he had worked so hard for. Nearly three terms in office and he was going to miss out on the last one.

---

Gaelica, Valloria
Vallorian-Ozeian Border
Gaelica was a small town with a population of about 1,300. It was a mining village that had existed for almost 3000 years; back then it was the capital of Ålerandic territory during the Gilded Age. No-one thought much of it, save for the fact that it's population was rather liberal, even by Vallorian standards. It was also a tourist hub for Strasvingaardians during the summer, as the lake below was beautiful after the spring. Recently, the town had become the military's forward command base for operations in Southern Ozeia. Army personnel milled around the hamlet, with housing structures and factories for the iron mined nearby being built all the time. While the Vallorians were not supporting the Ozeians much in terms of military might, FederAid (food, water, medical supplies, ammo, weapons) was being dropped all the time into warzones, allowing for the capitalist forces to keep the commies at bay. Some planes were also supplied.

But what was to come next was completely unexpected by anyone in Valloria. The communists wouldn't dare attack their neighbors to the south for fear of being crushed under the weight of Valloria's tanks, at least that's what was thought. Which was why, when it happened, no-one was prepared. First, a cruise missile was launched from a border installation towards the town. It blew up the armory, killing hundreds of men and leaving the soldiers defenseless. Alarm bells blared as searchlights sprang to life, lighting up the rocky slopes of Mount Halaforzian, illuminating several camouflaged tanks rolling up the hill. With no defenses, the town was ripe for the taking. Save for three mounted guns on the aircraft landing strip, and a few snipers in towers, Gaelica was left wide open. The tanks rolled into the town, crushing houses and tents beneath them. They fired their machine guns at anything that moved, and blew up anything that didn't.

The citizens tried to fight back, but every man, woman, and child was killed in the ensuing firefight. Some were burned inside their homes, others were shot by home invaders, others were blown to smithereens. Crimes against humanity were abound. The commies had finally crossed the Rubicon: Valloria would have to respond in earnest. But that was their plan. Valloria would become stretched so thin that it'd collapse on itself. Atalanta had already begun arming the Douglian communist rebels, which means both Vallorian land borders would become communist states. But no amount of political scheming could explain away what would become known as the infamous Gaelica attack. Valloria would ignore Douglia for as long as it could. It would vow to crush the communists. And it could not fail. For if it failed, it meant the end of the Directive and the end of Democracy both on South Atalanta and in the world.

[Cymrea]

International Congress of Nations Building
Tokiwadai, Helvetia

Sir Owainn Octavius Westinghouse, Legatus Extraterritorialis to ICoN, stood before the General Assembly and spoke passionately about the Ozeian Civil War. He outlined the sequence of events leading up to the rebel insurgency, and detailed the process by which the OzComs were armed and equipped by Atalanta. He recounted the horrors and atrocities being committed in the central Atalantan nation, punctuated by graphic slides shown on a large screen behind him. He eloquently stated Persica's denouncement of Atalanta's instigation of unrest and upheaval in foreign nations, and demanded sanctions be placed on the People's Federation for their meddling by proxy.

When he had finished his prepared speech, he asked again - in his own words - that the international community censure Atalanta in an effort to promote global security for the smallfolk of countries like Ozeia, and Douglia, and the nations who were not so fortunate as the world's powers; and to contain communism and quell the inherently destabilising effects of communist revolutions.

With little hope, and even that much being eroded by a growing cynicism, Westinghouse awaited the response from the assembled delegates.

[Ptolemais]

Tokiwadai, Helvetia
Kanata Court, Office of the Crown

Sayaka was still learning her new role at the head of state of Helvetia. She was thrust into the position of the Crown Princess at such a young age as her House desperately held onto power. She was primarily under the direction of her chief retainer, Azumi Tsunemori, House Tsunemori's head strategist. Sayaka was in a briefing in her office when a courier arrived at the door.

"Forgive the intrusion your Highness, but the Crown Intelligence Committee has a high priority message for you." the courier announced.

Azumi replied before Sayaka could. "Very well, you may proceed."

"Yes, ma'am. Prime Minister Saegusa is planning on attending a summit in Valloria to negotiate a trade agreement. They do not plan on consulting the Crown."

The assembled staff exchanged glances and hushed gasps.

"You are dismissed" Azumi replied to the courier, and with a bow he departed.

"Why would Prime Minister Saegusa act without Crown consent? Does he not respect my authority?" Sayaka asked her chief retainer.

"It appears so. We expected this, House Saegusa is using the Office of the Prime Minister to its fullest extent. We shall have to remind them of their place." Azumi regarded on of the staff members. "Advise Valloria that the Crown Princess will also attend the meeting. Advise the Office of the Prime Minister that we are exercising royal prerogative in this matter. Use strong terms." The staffer bowed to Sayaka then departed.

Azumi then turned to another staffer. "Prepare transportation to Valloria, find out the meeting place."

Finally, Azumi regarded Sayaka. "Your Highness, you will need to be ready to travel soon. Do not worry, I will be with you during the negotiations to guide our interests."

Honestly, Sayaka wasn't yet confident enough to exercise her authority. She relied on her retainers far too much, more than a Crown Princess should, but at this point she had no other choice. She decided she would go along with her retainers until she was confident.

"Of course Azumi, if you believe that to be wise." Sayaka replied meekly.

"That is good to hear, if you will excuse me I will need to make preparations." Azumi declared before departing. It was going to be a long week.

Westerkyrt, Valloria
Trade Negotiations

Crown Princess Tsunemori arrived first, her retainers made a point of this to ensure she was not relegated to a ceremonial position during the negotiations. Prime Minister Saegusa arrived shortly after. This would mark the opening of bilaterial Helvetia/Valloria trade negotiations. Matters of interest include energy and food security.