After the End (IC/Open)

[Imperial Idaho]

Random Fort, SoCal

He looked a bit nervous of the possibility of getting into the Humvee, though he turned to the men and women behind him and exchanged a few words. They nodded to him and he turned back to the soldiers. "Alright, lets uh, lets get going."

[Chewion]

Wichita Falls, Texas

Private First Class Ryan Dunham spotted the strange looking convoy. After getting his CO Major Henry Kiser, the 2nd Texas Ranger Regiment flagged down the convoy. Henry approached the convoy lowering his weapon and yelling "I suppose your from the old bunker in the Californian Mountains I learned about."

[Ithalian Empire]

Baycity
July 5th 2666

The early morning fog obscured most of the city as it came off of the bay. Yet even at this early hour men were working in the warrf. Two large fleets were bieng assembled. The largest was 16 longboats with nearly 600 armed warriors, this was lead by the Oberjarl himself and would head south and loot the costs of Michigan, with the ultimate prize being the city of Chicago. The second fleet was five large square sailed vessels carrying copper ingots and hides this was the annual trade fleet to be sent down the Seaway. The trade fleet would trade with any of the major nations along its way and eventually would make its way down the New England coast.

As on fleet was loaded with empty sack, chests, arrows, powder, and weapons the other was loaded with the bounty of the Baylands to be sold to the eastern nations. It was a contrast between two modes of life within the Baylands, looting and trading. Trade was the safe way of making wealth. Raids were risky, but could provide more wealth and the prestige that it gave was something coveted by Baylanders. One day they would have to choose, but it would take a great force indeed to force the fiercely independent Baylanders form abandoning one or the other.

As the grey sky started to turn into a brilliant orange and the sun's warmth began to dissipate the fog the two fleets slipped their moorings and headed down the River of Foxes and into the green waters of the bay. The trade fleet turned northward towards the Straits while the raiders headed south towards the Empire of the Gear. In a week's time to south would resound with the clash of arms and the cries of peasants as the Baylanders descended upon them.

Raiding Fleet
July 6

After a full day of rowing and sailing depending on the winds Baycity was far behind them. The lands to the west were no longer under the control of the Oberjarl. They continued south till the spied a small settlement, ignoring it the moved on to richer and more prosperous settlements.

Trade Fleet

While the raiders hugged the cost seeking out promising raiding points, the trade fleet made a stop in the ancient city of the Marnim. Here the joined with a larger trade fleet of ten ships. Together they continued to travel northwest towards the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. By mid day they had made it to the Islands at the tip of the Little Peninsula and then headed east toward the Island of Beavers.

Raiding Fleet
July 7

The fleet had been traveling slowly, trying to find settlement suitable to raid. It was around ten in the morning when the spied the smoke of a larger settlement. The long boats pulled up to shore and some of the raiders went up and scouted the terrain and the village itself. The ground was hilly and heavily wooded, a single dirt rode lead to the palisade wall of the village. The Oberjarl and the other Jarls were unsure as to who this village belonged to, and did not care ether, there was loot and the soldiers were getting restless. It was time to loot.

Trade Fleet

The trad fleet had reached the straits, here was the last stop within Bayland territory. The took a final load of supplies and six more ships joined them, then they continued out of the Straits and into lake Huron. It was getting dark when the fleet turned south towards the what was once called the St.Clare River and Old Detroit.

[Tysoania]

St. Roosevelt's Day, July 7, 2666

The massive banners fluttered in the light breeze as the sun set on the Shekako Holy Lands. The banners, orange with a single, massive cog painted in the middle, had been hung from every large building in the area, and began to look more ominous as torchlight began to fill the streets. The Union Rep in charge of the city's defenses had relented and allowed some of the guards to join the throngs in the streets, and now the Holy Lands was filled with many thousands of people, from peasant pilgrims to Foremen from the frontier. The St. Roosevelt's Day ceremonies had been completed only minutes earlier, and the parties had just begun. Inside the Muse, however, it was silent. The marble halls had been polished to a mirror shine, and the Gods had showed their approval by holding off any rain that was due. After all, the home of the Cult's most sacred texts and relics had to be kept clean. The last of the pilgrims had left only minutes earlier, but the only entrance had already been closed and the relics locked away when a Union Rep arrived to speak with the High Foreman. The High Foreman was inspecting a newly recovered relic when the Union Rep burst into the room.

"High Foreman, we have a situation on the frontier", he panted.

"And what could it be?", the High Foreman replied while continuing to look over the strange curled bit of metal.

"Apparently, there's attacks to the north. Some of the latest pilgrims brought rumors from the frontier that savages are wiping out entire villages. They said that entire forests had been burnt to the ground to kill a single person."

Last time this had happened, the High Foreman had sent out a full expedition to destroy what had turned out to be a wild bear. "Frankly, I don't give a damn. Remember what happened last time?"

"I think we should recall the Shekako guards. As a precaution."

The High Foreman rounded on him. "And violate their spiritual right to a good holiday? We have held a successful holiday; the Gods will hold off any attackers, if they even exist. You are to instruct any non-essential personnel to leave their posts and enjoy themselves."

The Union Rep sighed. "Very well, High Foreman."

[Biscaria]

The Great Castle, Orlando, The Mouse

Willow Waltney
Over the past two weeks, Willow Waltney had become concerned with the state of the Mouse's borders. In the previous week, she heard reports from borders scouts that the Confederate flag had been planted in the province of Suwannee. Nominally ruled over by the Counts of Jacksonville, the province functioned as buffer territory between The Mouse and the HCC. Thus, Willow decided to accelerate her plans for The Mouse. If the Confederation decided to initiate a skirmish, she wanted the realm to be able to defend itself in a dignified manner.

Willow called her three highest vassals to Orlando for a special meeting. They arrived at the Great Castle in great haste, still not completely over the "death" of Elias Waltney and somewhat fearing the newfound power of Willow. First came the chief of Daytona Beach, Alexandre Dauphin, arriving a new and fast white horse. Then came the chief of Ocala, David Gump, riding humbly and meekly on an old spotted horse. Lastly came the chief of Canaveral, Malaric Gaillard, riding almost unnoticed on a sleek black horse. All three walked up to Willow's throne, and awaited their commands.

"Bend to me," sternly stated Willow.

All three men uneasily bended to their knees in homage to her.

"I know it has been hard for everyone in the realm, in these trying times. However, as the one committed to uphold law and security in this most holy and sacred land, I have called you all here today to make important changes in the most efficient way possible."

She stood up from her throne.

"No longer will this be the Tribe of the Mouse. No, it will be now known as a great and powerful Kingdom." She pread out her hands. "After all, one who rules out of a great castle such as this one must rule over a greater realm than a mere tribe. This change will make us more efficient and united as a realm, and a people."

After finishing her canned speech, she looked into the eyes of each her vassals as to inspire fear and obedience. Each vassal tried to look away.

"Henceforth, you will all be known as Counts. Your minor tribes will be known as Counties. You will upgrade your holdings as appropriate, and funds have been allocated for this task."

She snapped her fingers, and courtiers proceeded to hand out bags of gold to each vassal. This money was acquired at great effort to Willow. She had to take out a great loan, and a good deal of that loan had already been spent on upgrading the army to standards comparable to the HCC. Thousands of soldier were recruited from the country, boosting the military level to a total of 8200 troops (3000 light infantry, 2000 heavy infantry, 2000 archers, 900 light cavalry, 400 heavy cavalry, 170 musketmen, and 20 cannons). The antique firearms held by the musketmen and cannonmen had been acquired arduously through both legitimate and illicit means, and many of them were were less-than-pristine. However, they had been refurbished enough using old texts to make them impressive. The troops were still being fitted for their armor as well, and it would take a small time for the army to be at full capacity. However, once they were, they would be the grandest force the Mouse had ever seen. And if the Mouse needed more firepower, their were surely more able bodied men in the realm that could armed with light weapons and sent to war.

Once the vassals had been given their money to upgrade their holdings, Willow went on.

"Each of you will be appointed to a position on my council. Count Alexandre, you will be my Minister of Defence. Count Malaric, you will be my Minister of the Treasury. And Count David, you will be my Minister of State. Your council duties will sent to you in due time. And as ruler of the new Kingdom, you and the rest of the people of The Mouse will address me as Your Majesty, as a ruling Queen should be."
She paused, fixing her eyes on each of her vassals.

"Rise, you are dismissed."

The vassals each rose, bowed, and cautiously took their leave. However, as Count David was almost out the door, Queen Willow called back to him.

"Count David, would you please come over here?"

Could David meekly turned around, and slinked over to the Queen. "Yes, your Majesty?" He nervously asked.

"Now I'm sure you've heard of the the recent actions of our neighbors to the North. These actions have necessitated the need of a diplomat in the Confederacy for communication purposes. Now, as Minister of State, this duty falls to you."

Queen Willow could tell that you nervous Count was going to try to bluff out of his duty, so she decided to sweeten the deal.
"And may I add if you perform this duty well, you will be amply awarded. The border county of Lochloosa needs more direct leadership, and I have you in mind for the job. Of course, if you don't want it..."

Queen Willow could see Count David's eyes light up at the prospect of an increased demesne, and she could tell that she won him over.
"No, no, no need to seek anyone else, Your Majesty. I will perform your duties at once," stated Count David abruptly.
Queen Willow smiled. "Good. Transportation and an entourage for your journey will be provided shortly. In the meantime, you may leave now my vassal."

Count David bowed, a hurriedly left the room. Meanwhile, Queen Willow converted her smile to a sigh and left the room. She had dealt with a lot that day, and she needed a good night's sleep.

[Ithalian Empire]

Bayland Raiders
Some Rust Cultist Village
July 7

The scouts had returned. Having discerned that the settlement was good sized town with a garrison the Oberjarl decided to use all available force to take the settlement and carry of the loot. Assembling 400 warriors the Oberjarl lead with his 50 Houscarles. Moving quietly through the forest the came to within sight of the palisade walls of the town.

There were few sentries posted, for to many of whom were not paying attention to the tree line, there minds wandering to the festivities going on within the walls. The day was fair and the birds were sinning in the trees. On a day like this, even out on the frontier, what could go wrong? The raiders of the north had long been quiet, and with a new Oberjarl the probably would continue to be so for a while longer.

The idle thoughts of the guards was cut short be the thunderous percussion of 50 firearms disgorging their deadly payloads followed by the wising of nearly the same amount of arrows. What wasn't killed be this first attack went into hiding behind the walls. A second volley was fired into the town to clear any one who was brave enough, or foolish enough to resist.

Then with the sounding of a horn the army of the Oberjarl rushed the city gate. The towns folk almost had hit closed when the Baylanders reached it, the combined weight of the 400 armoured warriors flung the wood gate open. The city guard was assembling by this time, but there was little they could do against the momentum of the Bayland onslaught. Disorganized and in confusion the gaurds were pushed back deeper into the city. Not one made it into the city square. Nearly all of 160 garrison forces were slain, 50 Baylander went off to drink with their fathers in the halls of Odin and 50 more were in various states of hurt.

With the garrison subdued came the looting. From house to house anything of value was taken. There was some minor resistance from peasants, but it was dealt with brutally and effectively. Amongst the loot to be taken was the people them selves. Mostly women and children were taken, tied up and thrown into the longboats along with other trinkets and bobbles. When all of value was taken the town was set a fire and the survivors were forced to watch as their home burned.

Then as quickly as they came, the Baylanders left.

[Zostra]

Southern Lake Champlain, New England Commonwealth

Captain Sarrail could have sworn he saw something following them in the woods as they made their way south. Though they looked no different than the forests of Champlain, it made his hair stand on end. The lake was dead calm as a light breeze wafted black smoke in the distance. There was no doubt it was coming from a settlement. "Smoke up ahead, prepare the boats!" he called to his crew. Several smaller row-boats were lowered into the water, packed with soldiers, as the ships dropped anchor out of sight. They began to row with Sarrail in the lead boat flying a white flag of parley. Hopefully whoever inhabited the village would not mistake their intentions.

[Ameriganastan]

"This whole plan seems asinine. We could wipe out these bottom dwelling vermin in an afternoon if we so chose to. They're puny compared to the Confederation."

A sizable camp had sprung up in the short time the HCC had moved in to occupy it. Many soldiers were getting impatient for something to do. Or something to shoot.

"Don't doubt High Duke Thibodeaux's strategy. He knows full well what he's doing."

The doubter scoffed.

"Yeah, so they say. If you ask me, he's a loony. Only got the job cause he was so effective at offing all the other potential candidates for High Duke."

While they chatted, a soldier with a spyglass raised his voice.

"Colonel, I believe the vermin worshipers are finally coming calling. Look like a diplomatic envoy from here."

[New Minahasa]

Southern Lake Champlain, New England Commonwealth.

The guards of the village saw the unknown party sailing from the lake, and noticed the white flag. They slowly approached the men with caution, as they didn't usually receive many guests but the occasional traders and merchants. Painted on the armour and shields of the guards were sigils of what appears to be a tentacled monster-crab, and the same symbol were visible across the whole village; the biggest one being ontop the entrance of a building situated in the middle of the village, a temple. The men guarding the temple were different from the ones that guarded the village as they wear robes and looked more disciplined, although the same symbol was visible on their armour too. These men, whoever they were, were completely fanatical and devout to whatever the being that they served. Then one them, who appeared to be their leader, stepped out and asked. "Where do you hail from, and what do you want?"

[Ironsbad]

The Holy City of Detroit,
The Motor Empire

The City of Ford, the Old Holy Engine, the Bridge of Smoke. These names are many pilgrims of the Great Factories have called the Motor City. The beating heart of the powerful Motor Empire. It was one of the two most powerful Rust Belt Kingdoms that stood tall throughout the known Great North but beset by foes of the familiar and the heathen variety. On the east across of the Eerie Lake laid smaller,rival kingdoms. Those who were trade partners and petty houses that fought among themselves in games of the court but have been getting pressured by the Engineer Emperor to become that of a vassal or prepare to see warships with piston flags war machines ready to siege and destroy their pride.

In the west lie the Confederation of the Rapids, a rising power in Michigan that grew when the Nordics came from the north and got beaten back from the new powers. They have been very ambitious but have been kept in check by the Motor Empire after they had established the Gearprict of Lansing by taking the land in the latest war against the Confederation. As of right now they have been looking to raise their banner one more time to take Lansing back from the Empire but the Emperor is not interest in fighting another petty war and wanted to put them to heel so that the west is somewhat safe despite the ever looming threat of the Nordics in the far north beyond the Superior Water.

Whatever it maybe, they have been always looking for riches, adventure, or even allies to their plight that was near them. They have found many trade partners that love their constant stream of goods but close allies, or even potential ones, could be counted on one hand. This was the curse of the Empire and their ambitions, while they are a mighty empire in their own right very few believed that being their friend was a good idea when they could have their land taken from the roots. No matter what was it, the Motor Empire keeps moving forward and into the new cycle of war as the blacksmiths were arming swords, shields, and spears. Trees were being chopped down for flectures, and blackpowder was being used for the guns of the new era.

This was for them to be set to send their forces against their enemies of the Engine, the Confederation of the Rapids. It will be the first of many campaigns that they wanted to do, that they have to do. It is to secure the pride of the Motor Empire and to expand the power of the Empire and make the world know that Detroit is the spearhead of the Rust Belt Cult.

[Biscaria]

Near the Village of Branford, Border Province of Suwannee.

David Gump, Count of Ocala
Count David's carriage rumbled over decaying roads as he and his diplomatic entourage passed into the Suwannee borderland. The carriage was flanked by guards at both side, with some carrying pikes while others carried the flag of The Mouse. As for Count David himself, he held a long list of notes from Queen Willow on how to act and what to say when confronted by the Confederates. The reason for this written assistance wasn't that he wasn't a competent diplomat; in fact, it was David who negotiated the handover of Lochloosa from Steinhatchee to The Mouse and it was David who negotiated the unconditional surrender of the Tampa pirates before they were put on trial. No, he kept those documents close because of the gravity of the situation. One wrong word, or a rebuttal of Queen Willow's demands by the Confederates, and a border skirmish could break out. He could be jailed or worse, killed. After all, while they always say don't shoot the messenger, what would stop a truly autocratic ruler from doing just that?

The entourage came upon the hastily-created Confederate camp near the village of Branford. To Count David it seemed almost as if the villagers had actually joined the Confederates, forcibly or not, as there seemed to be many crudely dressed servants tending to the needs of the soldiers. But he paid no heed to this, and was focused on a contingent of Confederate soldiers in front of them. The carriage slowed and the entourage came to a halt.

Count David stepped out from the carriage, papers in hand. In this moment, he looked dignified. His face was nicely clean shaven, and He wore his best white wig to cover his balding black hair. In addition, he wore a clean coat and waistcoat with a red Mouse necktie. He approached the solidiers from a safe distance, and spoke with the best imitation of a Southron dialect a Gulfard could muster.

"Gentlemen, I am David Gump, Count of Ocala and Minster of State for the Kingdom of the Mouse. I come on orders of Her Majesty Queen Willow. What is the reason for your company of soldiers breeching neutral territory?"

[Ameriganastan]

Near the Village of Branford, Border Province of Suwannee.

David Gump, Count of Ocala
Count David's carriage rumbled over decaying roads as he and his diplomatic entourage passed into the Suwannee borderland. The carriage was flanked by guards at both side, with some carrying pikes while others carried the flag of The Mouse. As for Count David himself, he held a long list of notes from Queen Willow on how to act and what to say when confronted by the Confederates. The reason for this written assistance wasn't that he wasn't a competent diplomat; in fact, it was David who negotiated the handover of Lochloosa from Steinhatchee to The Mouse and it was David who negotiated the unconditional surrender of the Tampa pirates before they were put on trial. No, he kept those documents close because of the gravity of the situation. One wrong word, or a rebuttal of Queen Willow's demands by the Confederates, and a border skirmish could break out. He could be jailed or worse, killed. After all, while they always say don't shoot the messenger, what would stop a truly autocratic ruler from doing just that?

The entourage came upon the hastily-created Confederate camp near the village of Branford. To Count David it seemed almost as if the villagers had actually joined the Confederates, forcibly or not, as there seemed to be many crudely dressed servants tending to the needs of the soldiers. But he paid no heed to this, and was focused on a contingent of Confederate soldiers in front of them. The carriage slowed and the entourage came to a halt.

Count David stepped out from the carriage, papers in hand. In this moment, he looked dignified. His face was nicely clean shaven, and He wore his best white wig to cover his balding black hair. In addition, he wore a clean coat and waistcoat with a red Mouse necktie. He approached the soldiers from a safe distance, and spoke with the best imitation of a Southron dialect a Gulfard could muster.

"Gentlemen, I am David Gump, Count of Ocala and Minster of State for the Kingdom of the Mouse. I come on orders of Her Majesty Queen Willow. What is the reason for your company of soldiers breaching neutral territory?"

An older looking soldier hopped down from his horse, unfurling a roll of parchment and clearing his throat.

"By order of Jeremiah Thibodeaux, High Duke of the mighty Holy Colombian Federation, this neutral territory has been annexed and claimed in the name of the Great Holy Expansion."

He rolled the parchment back up.

"In other words, mouse praising savage, we need more land to accommodate our ever growing citizenry. Now, I'm sure you know of the treaty your squalid domain established with our grand Confederation. Well..."

He held a copy of the treaty up, another soldier setting it aflame with a torch.

"That's that. If you have any issue with this, you can take it up with our very eager military. Make the first move if you want. It will prove most amusing."

The reason for the waiting was obvious. They wanted the Mouse Kingdom to make the first move. Fire the first bullet, and make it look like retaliation for an unprovoked attack.

"Feel free to deliver this message to your Queen. We aren't going anywhere."

[Democratic East-Asia]

Southern California

Starting up the Humvee's engines, Jackson and his expedition quickly set out for the city of Los Angeles. At the same time, a separate but smaller convoy was heading towards the old city of San Fransisco.

Close to San Fransisco

Expedition #4 was rather rushed, with the given decision passed not by the inner council, rather by an executive order from the president himself. Howard seemed quite eager in contacting San Fransisco, as it happened to be the very city his ancestors had fled from 600 years ago. Like everyone inside Mt. Rodman, Howard longed to hear of the outside world, especially his "ancestral home". On practical matters, San Fransisco could be a major ally in rebuilding the old USA. The state / nation there undoubtedly had a high population, and was more or less likely to be relatively strong. American influence would easily spread there if the US govt. was careful enough.

Led by the young Sgt. Jim Ouyang, who happened to be of Chinese descent, Expedition #4's transports had zoomed across the landscape at full speed towards their destination. Traveling at over 100 mph had caught the attention of many natives in the area, but that didn't matter. Honestly though, Ouyang thought this wasn't the best of ideas.

The current GPS estimate (due to a lack of satellites) had stated they were within 5 miles of city limits. Already, the old remains of San Fransisco's former skyscrapers stood out. The city itself was definitely odd in the expedition's members' minds. Decayed and old, yet lively and new at the same time. Ouyang himself had little time to think about such trivialities, and kept his mind on the mission at hand. American tech was advanced enough for computer systems to recognize new languages and process it partially, which gave Ouyang an advantage when dealing with unknown dialects. It was easier given that the Californians probably spoke a mix of Spanish and English. If language was similar enough though, the translation devices wouldn't be needed at all. They were uncommon.

The convoy stopped near the outer edges of the city. First contact would begin shortly.

[Democratic East-Asia]

Wichita Falls, Texas

Private First Class Ryan Dunham spotted the strange looking convoy. After getting his CO Major Henry Kiser, the 2nd Texas Ranger Regiment flagged down the convoy. Henry approached the convoy lowering his weapon and yelling "I suppose your from the old bunker in the Californian Mountains I learned about."

Wichita Falls

The convoy stopped dead in its tracks. Obama was quick to get out and greet the Texans. "Yes. We are indeed." How the hell does that man know so much? Obama thought. "Soldiers of the United States of America at your service."

[Chewion]

Wichita Falls, Texas

Private First Class Ryan Dunham spotted the strange looking convoy. After getting his CO Major Henry Kiser, the 2nd Texas Ranger Regiment flagged down the convoy. Henry approached the convoy lowering his weapon and yelling "I suppose your from the old bunker in the Californian Mountains I learned about."

Wichita Falls

The convoy stopped dead in its tracks. Obama was quick to get out and greet the Texans. "Yes. We are indeed." How the hell does that man know so much? Obama thought. "Soldiers of the United States of America at your service."

"Major Henry Kiser of the New Republic of Texas Ranger corps. I think we better talk. My brother has been waiting a long time for this day."

[Ithalian Empire]

Baylander Trade Fleet
July 8

After a full day of travel the trade fleet had came into eyeshot of the St. Clair river and the Motor Empire. It would be the first time that a Bayland fleet had come to these parts like this in many years. During the Great Starving individual Jarls had lead raids down this way against the city of Old Detroit. It had only been since the beginning of Erick the Great's reign did trade actually flow out and in Baycity. It would be the first time in a very long time that the emblem of Bayland would fly over a fleet heading this way.

[Democratic East-Asia]

"Kiser..."

Sounded like the old Defense Department's head after all. Obama would have to report this to the federal govt. sooner or later. "Hold on a moment. I just arrived here and you're telling me that your brother, who I presume leads this state, wants to talk. What's the big hurry?"

Obama's men clung on to their XR-2s and were slightly wary at the current situation. If a firefight broke out, no doubt the Americans would win easily, but violence was to be avoided at all costs. There was also the issue of losing weapons. Although no one else could produce them, the USA wasn't taking any chances.

[Chewion]

"Kiser..."

Sounded like the old Defense Department's head after all. Obama would have to report this to the federal govt. sooner or later. "Hold on a moment. I just arrived here and you're telling me that your brother, who I presume leads this state, wants to talk. What's the big hurry?"

Obama's men clung on to their XR-2s and were slightly wary at the current situation. If a firefight broke out, no doubt the Americans would win easily, but violence was to be avoided at all costs. There was also the issue of losing weapons. Although no one else could produce them, the USA wasn't taking any chances.

"Well you see my ancestor was Richard Kiser. The last true Secretary of Homeland Security. My brother and I and all of our family members have been taught everything there is to know about the USA. My brother is the President here but we did move the capital from the former state capital in Austin to Houston."

[Imperial Idaho]

Royal Palace, Los Angeles, SoCal

The trip from the Fort in the desert wasn't too bad, still bumpy and cracked as it had sat for centuries without maintenance, though the ruins of cars and anything else had been cleared out the way long ago for Merchants and travelers. Not much had happened, Frank Davis got carsick, being unused to a vehicle and all. Once the had arrived to the outskirts of the city they were stopped by guards, having the balls to stop the warband on wheels, and a few things organized. The Soldiers were impressed by the sight of Los Angeles, it was the shining capital of the Kingdom, many of its buildings still stood, the wealth of men long gone kept them standing. The Humvees took a longer route to get towards the Palace, being herded by some city guards to avoid town centers and other places lots of people would be. They had been forced to park a block or two away from the Palace, for fears of anything going down. Four men were allowed to accompany Davis to meet with the King of SoCal, two of them armed, and allowed to bring whatever gifts they wanted. Frank Davis stood with them at the Humvees with the men as they gathered their things, and would lead them to the Palace, built into the University of California.

[Biscaria]

*snip*

An older looking soldier hopped down from his horse, unfurling a roll of parchment and clearing his throat.

"By order of Jeremiah Thibodeaux, High Duke of the mighty Holy Colombian Federation, this neutral territory has been annexed and claimed in the name of the Great Holy Expansion."

He rolled the parchment back up.

"In other words, mouse praising savage, we need more land to accommodate our ever growing citizenry. Now, I'm sure you know of the treaty your squalid domain established with our grand Confederation. Well..."

He held a copy of the treaty up, another soldier setting it aflame with a torch.

"That's that. If you have any issue with this, you can take it up with our very eager military. Make the first move if you want. It will prove most amusing."

The reason for the waiting was obvious. They wanted the Mouse Kingdom to make the first move. Fire the first bullet, and make it look like retaliation for an unprovoked attack.

"Feel free to deliver this message to your Queen. We aren't going anywhere."

Count David tugged at his collar, and looked hurriedly at his notes. He wasn't expecting such dramatic action and grave insults to the realm.
"Y- you can't just- I mean..."

Count David composed himself, and responded to the Confederates in the most diplomatic and civil way he could muster.

"Now gentlemen, there is no need to turn to violence. I would just like to remind you that the Confederacy's violation of the Border Compromise of 2598 is unwarranted, and word of your violation will spread through the region. The treaty was signed for the mutual benefit of both our peoples in order to avoid conflict, and it has now become apparent to us from your mannerisms that the Confederacy is entering a period of wanton aggression. Ergo, this incident will be reported to the Her Majesty and to the affected Counts of Jacksonville and Steinhatchee. In the mean time, we urge the Confederacy to reconsider their actions and meet with the Kingdom of the Mouse to produce an amiable agreement."

After that speech, David Gump could say no more. And besides, what else could he say? He was a diplomat, not a general. Further action would have to fall to the Queen's Council in Orlando.

Having finished his work, Count David signified his imminent departure.
"Further word from the Queen will follow soon, and I would like to emphasize that the Confederacy's actions are so far unlawful. Thus, we would strongly urge you to forestall further enrichment in this area henceforth. For now, I bid you gentlemen farewell."

With that, Count David hurried back into his carriage, which along with his entourage promptly turned around and moved away from the camp into Disneyan territory on the remains of what was once State Route 27.

Count David began thinking of ways to avoid the second meeting. Unfortunately, just when Count David thought there could be a way, that he could take just another position in the council, a realization hit him like a brick in the face. The Queen's too-good-to-pass-up "reward" to him for completing the mission was a nice county right next to the Confederate border.

Sitting there alone in the carriage, he fainted shorty after.

[Reatra]

Close to San Fransisco

Expedition #4 was rather rushed, with the given decision passed not by the inner council, rather by an executive order from the president himself. Howard seemed quite eager in contacting San Fransisco, as it happened to be the very city his ancestors had fled from 600 years ago. Like everyone inside Mt. Rodman, Howard longed to hear of the outside world, especially his "ancestral home". On practical matters, San Fransisco could be a major ally in rebuilding the old USA. The state / nation there undoubtedly had a high population, and was more or less likely to be relatively strong. American influence would easily spread there if the US govt. was careful enough.

Led by the young Sgt. Jim Ouyang, who happened to be of Chinese descent, Expedition #4's transports had zoomed across the landscape at full speed towards their destination. Traveling at over 100 mph had caught the attention of many natives in the area, but that didn't matter. Honestly though, Ouyang thought this wasn't the best of ideas.

The current GPS estimate (due to a lack of satellites) had stated they were within 5 miles of city limits. Already, the old remains of San Fransisco's former skyscrapers stood out. The city itself was definitely odd in the expedition's members' minds. Decayed and old, yet lively and new at the same time. Ouyang himself had little time to think about such trivialities, and kept his mind on the mission at hand. American tech was advanced enough for computer systems to recognize new languages and process it partially, which gave Ouyang an advantage when dealing with unknown dialects. It was easier given that the Californians probably spoke a mix of Spanish and English. If language was similar enough though, the translation devices wouldn't be needed at all. They were uncommon.

The convoy stopped near the outer edges of the city. First contact would begin shortly.

((Sorry sort of running out of time))

San Francisco:

"Commandant! There are... men...? Men on the road!"

"What kind?"

"They are... riding in cars..."

---

The caravan was led further north, to the awe of the civilian population of San Francisco, to Fort Point at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula. A meeting with the Grand Council of Gran Francisco was organized, and the men brought in.


((I swear I'm usually way better than this I'm just so busy))

[Ironsbad]

The Holy City of Detroit,
The Motor Empire

The movement of armies and zealots were going on. Thousands of men were going to be sent to their deaths for the expansion of the state and for ambitions of a man who knew that the glory of the Empire will outlived the body of a man. However, his bloodline was more than secure as he enforced the equality of rule among the nobles that support him and that a woman can rule the Empire. The day was the same as it always was, with the smokestacks and sounds of production filled the air and the people were going about their business in different faces or collective happy jubilee, this was until one spotted something from their coast.

The River of the Lady St. Clair was the main transport for the Motor fleet and when longships wielding the same red boat that the Baylands had. Though the idea of Nordics coming to them was something that they haven't thought in many years, the history was still fresh in their minds. During the Great Starving, the Motor Empire was still centered around Detroit and the minor kingdoms were still bickering around each other. This made them easy pickings as the Jarls continuously raid the minor kingdoms and even tried their hand at sacking the Holy City. This was one of the reasons why the Engineer Emperor went to war against the minor kingdoms and chased out the Nordics from the local lands.

Three carracks and two cogs were moving in to intercept the trading fleets and aimed their ballistae, arrows, and catapults at them in hopes to force them to surrenders so that they can understand why the heathens would come to their Empire after so long.

[Ithalian Empire]

The Holy City of Detroit,
The Motor Empire

The movement of armies and zealots were going on. Thousands of men were going to be sent to their deaths for the expansion of the state and for ambitions of a man who knew that the glory of the Empire will outlived the body of a man. However, his bloodline was more than secure as he enforced the equality of rule among the nobles that support him and that a woman can rule the Empire. The day was the same as it always was, with the smokestacks and sounds of production filled the air and the people were going about their business in different faces or collective happy jubilee, this was until one spotted something from their coast.

The River of the Lady St. Clair was the main transport for the Motor fleet and when longships wielding the same red boat that the Baylands had. Though the idea of Nordics coming to them was something that they haven't thought in many years, the history was still fresh in their minds. During the Great Starving, the Motor Empire was still centered around Detroit and the minor kingdoms were still bickering around each other. This made them easy pickings as the Jarls continuously raid the minor kingdoms and even tried their hand at sacking the Holy City. This was one of the reasons why the Engineer Emperor went to war against the minor kingdoms and chased out the Nordics from the local lands.

Three carracks and two cogs were moving in to intercept the trading fleets and aimed their ballistae, arrows, and catapults at them in hopes to force them to surrenders so that they can understand why the heathens would come to their Empire after so long.

It was expected that the Motor Empire would use a show of force when the trade fleet came. In response the captains of the ships struck up a flag of truce and weighed anchor. They would allow the Motor ships to approach, and if they wished the search there cargo they were told to allow them too. In essence the fleet was to do what the Motor empire wanted them to do so long as it didn't involve turning around.

Incase there was a problem there were plenty of items to bribe their way into the Empire. The finest beaver pelts this side of the River, copper trinkets, gold, and probably most important were what the Nordic Baylander though were Cultist relics. Scrapes taken from old cars and the ruined paper mills of Northern Wisconsin.

[Ironsbad]

River of the Lady St. Clair,
Motor Empire

The sails of the ships were tied up as they got by the longships. Three ships boarded them with the serious of manners and looks of dread as they met their old foe with curiosity. The soldiers carried short spears and some longswords among small round shields that helped with fighting in close-quarters in ships. They came in by two as they maintained how their professionalism was against the Nordics and the captain came down. He was a grizzled old man that had lost three teeth and had his right eye milky with cataracts. He walked towards the captain with an angry look on his face.

" Now what in the Factory's name do we have here? Nordics with little weapons and a white flag? Ain't that a strange way to do a raid if I haven't seen one. Now, tell me why I don't tell the other ships to sink your fleets in sacrifice to the Spirits for insulting our land with your heathen ways?"

[Ithalian Empire]

River of the Lady St. Clair,
Motor Empire

The sails of the ships were tied up as they got by the longships. Three ships boarded them with the serious of manners and looks of dread as they met their old foe with curiosity. The soldiers carried short spears and some longswords among small round shields that helped with fighting in close-quarters in ships. They came in by two as they maintained how their professionalism was against the Nordics and the captain came down. He was a grizzled old man that had lost three teeth and had his right eye milky with cataracts. He walked towards the captain with an angry look on his face.

" Now what in the Factory's name do we have here? Nordics with little weapons and a white flag? Ain't that a strange way to do a raid if I haven't seen one. Now, tell me why I don't tell the other ships to sink your fleets in sacrifice to the Spirits for insulting our land with your heathen ways?"

The captain of the Bayland ship was almost older than the Cultist captain and had steared ships along the Lacks since he was a small boy. He new his way around a swords, a rope and a sail. But most importantly his family were merchants. Before the Great Starving and the Jarls raiding of this part if the world his family had once sent trade ships this way. For him it was a great honor to lead his people back into the world of trade, but he was not surprised by the reaction from this man.

"Ahy, tis be a strange way to raid. I reckon you never did see a Bayland trade fleet in it glory. You see that is what this be, a trade fleet. We only wish to sell and buy good from you markets. We come upon the orders of the Oberjarl, Erick the Great, and to harm our fleet is to start war with the Baylands. But if ye were to, let us through, there could be some personal gain for ye." The captain held up two gold pieces. "Thar could be more for ye if you get me meaning."