1870-1920 Era War: A Twist (IC)

[The Manticoran Empire]

It was freezing in the makeshift lair, however it was all they had for now. The ground lay cold, with freezing water, and Harker had noticed his rifle started to cool down rather fast.

Lieutenant Harker: So, what are to do now? Eventually, they will find us down here, probably a sewer cleaner, and we will be caught. I propose we buy one of those mobile carriages they have here, quite cheap, and we can make it heavily fortified. From there, perhaps we can conduct our operations, on the move. What say you guys?

Frost: Harker, you must remember, this isn't Norcourt. This country is largely under developed. There is no sewer system in this Village, the only one in the country is in the Capital. This Safehouse, the Reservoir, and the Fake Sewer are connected to nothing. Officially, its just a grate that collects drinking water from Melting Snow, so no one will think twice about it. In the mean time, i have bad news. The Rebels are taking too much of a beating, so supporting them is out of the question. Right now, we need to find a way to stir violence. I was thinking maybe dress like Arengin Sailors, and start a bar fight that turns into a shoot out? Arengin Sailors killing a few Halium Policemen or Citizens would shake the alliance... But i think we need something larger, something that would really put a crack in the alliance.

Frost: Harker, you must remember, this isn't Norcourt. This country is largely under developed. There is no sewer system in this Village, the only one in the country is in the Capital. This Safehouse, the Reservoir, and the Fake Sewer are connected to nothing. Officially, its just a grate that collects drinking water from Melting Snow, so no one will think twice about it. In the mean time, i have bad news. The Rebels are taking too much of a beating, so supporting them is out of the question. Right now, we need to find a way to stir violence. I was thinking maybe dress like Arengin Sailors, and start a bar fight that turns into a shoot out? Arengin Sailors killing a few Halium Policemen or Citizens would shake the alliance... But i think we need something larger, something that would really put a crack in the alliance.

Lieutenant Harker: Perhaps we must go to fire. I learned how to make Molotov's during my service in Goldrush. The Volgans and Slavs near that area mass produced them in their small villages. I can make several with the resources we have here. Do you know of any landmarks, ugly enough to burn here in Halium? Perhaps a Palace or Town Hall of the sorts?

Lieutenant Harker: Perhaps we must go to fire. I learned how to make Molotov's during my service in Goldrush. The Volgans and Slavs near that area mass produced them in their small villages. I can make several with the resources we have here. Do you know of any landmarks, ugly enough to burn here in Halium? Perhaps a Palace or Town Hall of the sorts?

Frost: I like how you think, but burning momuments is not enough. We must either make the Haliumans distrust their Entente Allies, which would be very difficult, or we could try and stirr up rebellion, which shall be a lot more plausible. Perhaps, we could dress in Halium Army Uniforms, and burn something. What if, we burn a Village, three Halium Troopers burning down a village of poor defenseless farmers, that will stir up revolutionaries!

Frost: I like how you think, but burning momuments is not enough. We must either make the Haliumans distrust their Entente Allies, which would be very difficult, or we could try and stirr up rebellion, which shall be a lot more plausible. Perhaps, we could dress in Halium Army Uniforms, and burn something. What if, we burn a Village, three Halium Troopers burning down a village of poor defenseless farmers, that will stir up revolutionaries!

Lieutenant Harker: Very well, but first we'll need to get some uniforms. Now, how are we gonna do that you ask? We could lure one of those local guardsmen into an allyway, asking for help, then killing them afterwards.

Lieutenant Harker: Very well, but first we'll need to get some uniforms. Now, how are we gonna do that you ask? We could lure one of those local guardsmen into an allyway, asking for help, then killing them afterwards.

Frost: Or we could just use the ones on the table over there...

Frost pointed to the table on the far side of the room, next to the Gun Racks. On it, were various gadgets and tools of the spy trade, along with multiple uniforms of multiple nations and rebel groups that would be useful on their assignment.

James listened to the two men as he drank whiskey. He then said, "Look, lads, we obviously need a target to stir up rebellion AND weaken their alliance. So, here's my suggestion: we pose as Halium military personnel, delivering supplies to the Arengin Embassy. These "supplies" would actually be locally produced high explosives. This attack would cause immense devastation and would point directly to elements within the Halium government."

[Norcourt]

James listened to the two men as he drank whiskey. He then said, "Look, lads, we obviously need a target to stir up rebellion AND weaken their alliance. So, here's my suggestion: we pose as Halium military personnel, delivering supplies to the Arengin Embassy. These "supplies" would actually be locally produced high explosives. This attack would cause immense devastation and would point directly to elements within the Halium government."

Harker turned his head and faced the man. "They would know us from the start. You are forgetting, the people of Halium are asiatic peoples, and we are different. We would be recognized and investigated on site. I say, we take their checkpoints by force, or cause a distraction. However I do agree with your idea of the Embassy. The R.O.S.S said to use whatever force needed, I'm positive we can blow up the embassy and the people in it." Harker said

[The Manticoran Empire]

James listened to the two men as he drank whiskey. He then said, "Look, lads, we obviously need a target to stir up rebellion AND weaken their alliance. So, here's my suggestion: we pose as Halium military personnel, delivering supplies to the Arengin Embassy. These "supplies" would actually be locally produced high explosives. This attack would cause immense devastation and would point directly to elements within the Halium government."

Harker turned his head and faced the man. "They would know us from the start. You are forgetting, the people of Halium are asiatic peoples, and we are different. We would be recognized and investigated on site. I say, we take their checkpoints by force, or cause a distraction. However I do agree with your idea of the Embassy. The R.O.S.S said to use whatever force needed, I'm positive we can blow up the embassy and the people in it." Harker said

"Well then, we can do Warglorians or, even better, NCSU."

[Norcourt]

Harker turned his head and faced the man. "They would know us from the start. You are forgetting, the people of Halium are asiatic peoples, and we are different. We would be recognized and investigated on site. I say, we take their checkpoints by force, or cause a distraction. However I do agree with your idea of the Embassy. The R.O.S.S said to use whatever force needed, I'm positive we can blow up the embassy and the people in it." Harker said

"Well then, we can do Warglorians or, even better, NCSU."

"It would be much more sensible to use Arengin Uniforms, as we are going to an Arengin Embassy. Anyone speak Arengin?" Harker asked

[The Traansval]

"Well then, we can do Warglorians or, even better, NCSU."

"It would be much more sensible to use Arengin Uniforms, as we are going to an Arengin Embassy. Anyone speak Arengin?" Harker asked

Frost: Mandatory languages classes from my SOK Training. But still, i suggest a reversal. Let us make it look like Arengins attacking Halium, rather than Halium attacking Arengin. Or, wait. How about both?

Frost moved over to a map of Halium

Frost: How about this. We dress as Arengin Sailors, and we fire bomb the Village of Churin. We can make it look like we're drunk, head to the bar there, get in a fight, leave, then fire bomb the place. Then, maybe a day or so later, we dress as Halium Government Forces, and we bomb the Arengin Embassy. That way, it would look like Halium retaliating against Arengin!

[Zjaum]

Queen Okoya and Advisor Elekeplau sat across the table as the queen's court enjoyed a late lunch.
"I take it you enjoy the stew?" asked the advisor. "I particularly liked it when I was king."
"Yes, of course. I'm glad we have the same tastes. The seat, however, may need some renovation; it doesn't fit me very well. Would you like this one when I replace it?"
"Mustn't waste good craftsmanship."
"Now, I had something I wished to discuss with you in private."
"My queen?"
"It is about the war between the Free and Bronze Islands. Enemy warships travel across our waters at an alarming rate," she chuckled. "I would charge a toll if I didn't want two nations breathing down my neck."
"Wars happen all the time, like Manticore's war long ago, and the Volgan War as well."
"Yes, but I recently had two ambassadors approach me, independently, in secret. Both sides want the Zjau-yl to join the war in their name."
"So, accept both."
"What?!"
The court stopped eating; talk at the table was a rarity in Zjau-yl society. Trygve Plaustrum rose and made his way over to the queen.
The queen blushed. "My apologies, friends. I did not mean to be so loud. Please, continue. Dessert should be soon."
The court resumed, but Trygve piped up. "Did I miss anything?"
The king responded bluntly. "The Islanders' War. I suggested that we play both sides."
"Ah, that's what you meant!"
"A fine idea, your majesties! I shall attend the Free Isle court, and his ex-majesty can join the Bronze Isle court."
"No, Trygve, I was thinking a more subtle approach," the king said as he leaned in to the queen. "My queen, I assume you know about the Curse Lasses and the Komoyan-Kokshi?"
"Yes, enough to know of their purposes."
"Well, we send a group of each to each nation. We grow enough of a bond to gain a reasonable amount of intelligence. We can rent out their use to both sides, but we make sure that everything remains absolutely secret. We get experience, we get intelligence, and we get a pretty penny while we're at it."
"All right, then. Fine. Trygve, could you tell Kaina that 'her rose birthmark looks lovely'?"
Trygve gasped. "She was... I mean, wow. They are rather well hidden. I'll get right on it."

[Norcourt]

"It would be much more sensible to use Arengin Uniforms, as we are going to an Arengin Embassy. Anyone speak Arengin?" Harker asked

Frost: Mandatory languages classes from my SOK Training. But still, i suggest a reversal. Let us make it look like Arengins attacking Halium, rather than Halium attacking Arengin. Or, wait. How about both?

Frost moved over to a map of Halium

Frost: How about this. We dress as Arengin Sailors, and we fire bomb the Village of Churin. We can make it look like we're drunk, head to the bar there, get in a fight, leave, then fire bomb the place. Then, maybe a day or so later, we dress as Halium Government Forces, and we bomb the Arengin Embassy. That way, it would look like Halium retaliating against Arengin!

Lieutenant Harker: That's it then. We must start preparing now, James if you need any weapons, there's a couple revolvers near that table, and rifles down the corridor, ammo in the crates. I'll start working on the bombs, and Frost, do what you need to do.

Harker began building a Bottled Molotov bomb, but began to speak yet again...

Lieutenant Harker: Oi Frost, what say we get captured? Shouldn't we have more than just 4 operatives? I mean, the Twelve isles agent hasn't arrived yet, and a bit more manpower can do us some good, mate, right?

[The Twelve Isles]

James listened to the two men as he drank whiskey. He then said, "Look, lads, we obviously need a target to stir up rebellion AND weaken their alliance. So, here's my suggestion: we pose as Halium military personnel, delivering supplies to the Arengin Embassy. These "supplies" would actually be locally produced high explosives. This attack would cause immense devastation and would point directly to elements within the Halium government."

Harker turned his head and faced the man. "They would know us from the start. You are forgetting, the people of Halium are asiatic peoples, and we are different. We would be recognized and investigated on site. I say, we take their checkpoints by force, or cause a distraction. However I do agree with your idea of the Embassy. The R.O.S.S said to use whatever force needed, I'm positive we can blow up the embassy and the people in it." Harker said

"You guys planning to explode some shit," said Agent Brown. He was late, as was his fashion, but still insisted on making an entrance. He pulled a chair out from their table, and sat down, looking between the men. "I dont think we should be doing this the way you guys are thinking. We would be better off paying some local gangs, paramilitary's or other such people to do it for us. In cash, so theres no paper trail. We supply them with the bombs, and they do the dirty work for us. That way, we can keep out cover."

[The Twelve Isles]

"Well, I have to say that is good to hear, though I guess I knew it already," said Bella. "And even if Im not comfortable with this whole ordeal, Im certainly no going go back on my deal. I said I would come back and take the throne, so I will. Still, thanks for the words of encouragement. It does mean a lot."

Nikolai simply smiled. "Do no worry, you will always have friends here in Arengin. Say have you heard about this new treaty of the republican nations?" Nikolai asked as he sipped on the tea.

"I've tried to keep an ear for it but I've been pretty busy you see." He continued as he waited for a response of the princess.

"Yes, I have," said Bella. "From what ive heard, General Younger put our nation on the list. In his letter, he had told me that he had put his name small, so that it could be crossed out and I could sign it with my own name." She brushed a hair from her face, before continuing. "Ive actually sent a letter to the leaders of the other nations in the Alliance, in hopes that I would be able to come and sign the treaty myself. All I need now is a response."

To: Leaders of the Alliance of Republican Nations
From: Bella Elizabeth Cartwine I, Heiress to the Throne of the Twelve Isles

I write to you in hopes of a meeting. I have been in correspondence with General Younger as of late, and together me and him have laid down plans for me to take up the position of my late mother as Empress of the Isles. By tradition, I can not be crowned as the new leader of my people unless I sit on the throne, but I can still perform many dutys beyond that. One of the duty's talked about is the signing of the Treaty for the Alliance of Republican Nations. It is my understanding that General Younger has signed his name instead so that we may enter the alliance, but in hopes that I would sign mine instead. It is my intent to do this, and I hope that we will be able to make this a reality sometime in the near future.

Your's truly, Bella Elizabeth Cartwine I

[Norcourt]

Harker turned his head and faced the man. "They would know us from the start. You are forgetting, the people of Halium are asiatic peoples, and we are different. We would be recognized and investigated on site. I say, we take their checkpoints by force, or cause a distraction. However I do agree with your idea of the Embassy. The R.O.S.S said to use whatever force needed, I'm positive we can blow up the embassy and the people in it." Harker said

"You guys planning to explode some shit," said Agent Brown. He was late, as was his fashion, but still insisted on making an entrance. He pulled a chair out from their table, and sat down, looking between the men. "I dont think we should be doing this the way you guys are thinking. We would be better off paying some local gangs, paramilitary's or other such people to do it for us. In cash, so theres no paper trail. We supply them with the bombs, and they do the dirty work for us. That way, we can keep out cover."

Harker, looked at the man, "Agent Brown, I see you've made it. I also see that you've been listening to our conversations. I see the sense in your request, however, we cannot trust anyone here, not even each other. If we get caught, we can not spill information, and mere gangs would spill anything, their payers, their sources, and their info." He had said.

[The Twelve Isles]

"You guys planning to explode some shit," said Agent Brown. He was late, as was his fashion, but still insisted on making an entrance. He pulled a chair out from their table, and sat down, looking between the men. "I dont think we should be doing this the way you guys are thinking. We would be better off paying some local gangs, paramilitary's or other such people to do it for us. In cash, so theres no paper trail. We supply them with the bombs, and they do the dirty work for us. That way, we can keep out cover."

Harker, looked at the man, "Agent Brown, I see you've made it. I also see that you've been listening to our conversations. I see the sense in your request, however, we cannot trust anyone here, not even each other. If we get caught, we can not spill information, and mere gangs would spill anything, their payers, their sources, and their info." He had said.

"Thats why we pay in cash," said Brown. "If its in cash, there's no paper trail of transactions and bank note's, meaning that its the word of a bunch of street thugs over that of respectable foreign business men like us. We would have the more favorable position in any argument that may arise from it."

[Norcourt]

Harker, looked at the man, "Agent Brown, I see you've made it. I also see that you've been listening to our conversations. I see the sense in your request, however, we cannot trust anyone here, not even each other. If we get caught, we can not spill information, and mere gangs would spill anything, their payers, their sources, and their info." He had said.

"Thats why we pay in cash," said Brown. "If its in cash, there's no paper trail of transactions and bank note's, meaning that its the word of a bunch of street thugs over that of respectable foreign business men like us. We would have the more favorable position in any argument that may arise from it."

"Indeed, it wouldn't leave a trail, and to be fair none of us would either. If Interrogated, the thugs would spill, and they would spill quickly. If they're so easily persuaded to burn down the embassy of Arengin, they'll be so easily to spill, for mere coin."

[Zjaum]

From: Okoya Bren-so the Tall
To: Empress Bella Cartwine III

Encryption: MAX

Queens must stick together in a world of men. We would like to assist in your war, but we do not have the naval power to ensure that our soldiers land safely. Instead, we have another proposal.

We have a legion of secret female warriors. Some have called them Valkyries; others, Amazons. We call them the Curse Lasses. They are trained for assassination, espionage, and brutal warfare. Better still, they blend in with the rest of society perfectly. If you wish, you can use them. We only ask that you fund their salaries, a reasonable wage for a high-skill soldiers such as they, and that all gained information is shared with us.

[Halium]

Halium City, Northern Halium

Desmond Halium begins to speak about the growing problem of spies in Southern Halium, how they almost caused Halium to lose the Battle of Crezark, shooting heroes Corporal George Ford, Lieutenant Declan Viron, and severely wounding General Redmont, who would later die. He talks about their life, their rise and falls, and how they fought for Halium, not some rebellion.

He follows this up with the creation of the Halium Defenders, a Halium spy organization dedicated to stopping any remaining spy's in the country.

[Arengin Union]

Royal Palace summit, St. Osloverg.
Arengin

The signing was done. All leader rose from their seats and gave a toast. Oswyn quickly changed the name of the treaty to something different. "Gentlemen, a new era is upon us. A toast!"

Treaty of Global Defense Unity of the Free Nations.

We, the leaders of the sovereign nations of Arengin, Wargloria, Aclus, Skarten, and Halium. Solemnly swear to defend each other from attack, to support each other in economic unity, to preserve peace between our people, and unite in the battle against those who threaten our people and our values.

Article I
The alliance shall be ruled by a high council made from the primary members of the Alliance, Arengin, Aclus, Skarten, Wargloria, and Halium. The council shall be gathered at the request of any nation given that time allows it. The council will meet to discuss matters of economic, geopolitical, or military concern. This includes but is not limited to; attack and defense of an ally, accepting a new member, setting sanctions on a nation, faction, or group, military or diplomatic intervention on a nation, both ally, enemy, or neutral, and setting economic and social treaties. In order to come to a decision each member will cast a vote in the action that shall be followed.

Article II
A second council shall be formed when at least 3 new nations are added to the alliance. This will be the lower council, which will discuss on the same matters stated in Article I. However the lower council acts as an advising body to the high council and thus the high council will have the final say.

Article III
The alliance is a defensive pact. In case of a deliberate attack on a member by another party, each nation shall send at least 10% of their military forces in order to provide help to the ally. If a member nation attacks another nation, the council will gather and each nation will decide if they intervene or not, they are not obligated to help if the action was an offensive from a member nation.

Article IV
Intelligence agencies of every nation shall work together for intel, espionage, or hidden operation, etc. This only if one nation requests it. No nation is authorize to send agents to another member nation without their consent.

Article V
Technology both military and civilian shall be shared between nations if the high council comes to a decision on it depending on the technology.

Article VI
Resources shall be shared, if a member requests it in order to fulfill a certain objective. Again the council will vote on it.

Article VII
The councils can be made up of representatives from each nation and will vote in the matter of where to be headquartered. Each representative should follow orders and the agenda of their constituent nation and leader and not their personal interest. A member of the council serves for their lifetime unless they are removed by their nation.

Article VIII
A nation that is not part of the alliance can join by either request or by invitation of at least one member nation. The decision on whether it should join will be made by the council.

Article IXs
A remembre nation id subject to the treaty for 15 years and will be able to either leave or renew their status as a member nation. Keep in mind once a nation leaves, they are subjected to having to establish new treaties and ties with the other nations. The treaty will also be revised and amended by the council if deemed necessary.

Article X
Each member of the alliance is still an independent nation and is free to administer the inside of their borders however they please without any intervention from the council or other nations.

Article XI
Each nation shall receive a copy of this text and guard it however they see fit. This is their certification of membership on the alliance.

This Treaty is Ratified by the Following Leaders:(Aclus, Skarten, Wargloria, and Halium put the names of your leaders here) Alexander Oswyn II of Arengin,Supreme Chancellor Marcus Ragnusius II,Herr Wulff Allen Auf Wargloria, Lord Cali Merui of the Grand Duchy of Halium,Tsar Wilbert III of Skarten

Halium, port of Adelin.

A few days had passed since the signing of the treaty. Arengin ships, both diplomatic and military began to arrive. Soldiers unloaded crates of weapons, ammo, uniforms and other supplies. Diplomats, engineers, and architects began to set plans for an embassy. Brigadier General Victor Delensky exited his ship, accompanied by 40,000 Arengin soldiers and officers who would assist.

The heat of the country was unbearable and the port left much to be desired, as well as the Halium soldiers who seemed more like militia than a real army. Delensky shook his head in disapproval as he walked to the Halium representatives and officers.

"We are here to turn your nation into a modern era stronghold. Commander, I will be taking charge of their training." Soldiers then opened crates with brand new officer clothing that simulated that of Arengin's military and handed them to the Halium officers.

"Put them on. Make the example." Delensky said as he walked to the model-Y car they had brought, he made the gesture for the Halium officers to get in and guide the way while an Arengin soldier drove.


General Delensky




Uniform set given to the Halium officers

[The Senate and People of New Rome]

Isle of Solitude
Roman Encampment
22 December 1892

Legate Gaius Laelius stood in front of his tent, watching with pleasure as the Army rebuilt the former Boer colony. Few had survived the brutal Roman assault, though the price had been heavy for the Romans, as well, with nearly 30,000 casualties, mostly Auxiliary troops. "Laelius legati, ipse honori et domui tuae pax et imperium." Gaius turned to the voice behind him. Tiberius Marius, First Consul, the Roman equivalent of a Viceroy and Prime Minister all in one. Marius was second only to the Emperor himself and to hear those words from him was a great boon to Gaius's pride. "Gratissimum mihi pro verbis Primo consularem. Volumus impetrandam praetulissent. Aliquot milites et duces virtute multa in agro."
"Certe ego imperator det tibi petitionem legati."
Gaius smiled again and asked, "Quod sic patet de facetiis, quod petieris a me inpetrabis Caesar?" Marius poured two glasses of brandy and offered one to Gaius, who graciously accepted it. "Imperium orientalium socios sunt bogged down in a multi-ante bellum. The Arengin Union, Aclus, Traansval est, et Twelve Isles, et Manticorans, et Norcourtians sunt signa aenea in insulas et USU. Imperium Wargloria, relicta pro Slavorum. Denique opus sumus, ut ambularetis in fronte aperta vi pressionis subveniendum sociis."
"Ubi oppugnare vis?" asked Gaius. In response, Marius pointed to a collection of small islands on the map. "Ironton Islands sunt in potestate Skarten, an socius Arengin. Si comminemur eis imperator contra postulata novi habebitur." Marius paused to sip at his brandy, sighing with ecstasy as he does so. "Imperium confortare et emi tempus. Imperium poterat et iuvent."
Gaius looked at the map. "Quod non sit facile. Sed per deos Ironton aquila volavit in Insula. Iura in Patre meo, et ex Patre natum ante illum sanguis."

[Halium]

Halium, port of Adelin.

A few days had passed since the signing of the treaty. Arengin ships, both diplomatic and military began to arrive. Soldiers unloaded crates of weapons, ammo, uniforms and other supplies. Diplomats, engineers, and architects began to set plans for an embassy. Brigadier General Victor Delensky exited his ship, accompanied by 40,000 Arengin soldiers and officers who would assist.

The heat of the country was unbearable and the port left much to be desired, as well as the Halium soldiers who seemed more like militia than a real army. Delensky shook his head in disapproval as he walked to the Halium representatives and officers.

"We are here to turn your nation into a modern era stronghold. Commander, I will be taking charge of their training." Soldiers then opened crates with brand new officer clothing that simulated that of Arengin's military and handed them to the Halium officers.

"Put them on. Make the example." Delensky said as he walked to the model-Y car they had brought, he made the gesture for the Halium officers to get in and guide the way while an Arengin soldier drove.

General Delensky

Uniform set given to the Halium officers

Halium, Adelin

the commander of the forces of the 2nd Division, General Xhasa, got into the car and began to brief Delensky as they drove.

"There are small rebellions everywhere, although the threat from largely Manticore, but Transvaal too have lessened this as people begin to get much more scared and band together for protection"

Xhasa pulls out a map "Three divisions are along the Manticore-Halium border, along with our small unit of artillery, ones here, in North Halium, the others in South Halium. Currently there are mostly Yellow Movements going on, Yellow Movements are small local movements for independence, easy to put down, although hard to stop in large numbers."

Xhasa points to Halium City, on the coast of Halium "Right now we're focusing on keeping the rebels out of important cities in Halium"

[The Manticoran Empire]

"It would be much more sensible to use Arengin Uniforms, as we are going to an Arengin Embassy. Anyone speak Arengin?" Harker asked

Frost: Mandatory languages classes from my SOK Training. But still, i suggest a reversal. Let us make it look like Arengins attacking Halium, rather than Halium attacking Arengin. Or, wait. How about both?

Frost moved over to a map of Halium

Frost: How about this. We dress as Arengin Sailors, and we fire bomb the Village of Churin. We can make it look like we're drunk, head to the bar there, get in a fight, leave, then fire bomb the place. Then, maybe a day or so later, we dress as Halium Government Forces, and we bomb the Arengin Embassy. That way, it would look like Halium retaliating against Arengin!

"Drunk, you say? I can do drunk."

[Halium]

Frost: Mandatory languages classes from my SOK Training. But still, i suggest a reversal. Let us make it look like Arengins attacking Halium, rather than Halium attacking Arengin. Or, wait. How about both?

Frost moved over to a map of Halium

Frost: How about this. We dress as Arengin Sailors, and we fire bomb the Village of Churin. We can make it look like we're drunk, head to the bar there, get in a fight, leave, then fire bomb the place. Then, maybe a day or so later, we dress as Halium Government Forces, and we bomb the Arengin Embassy. That way, it would look like Halium retaliating against Arengin!

"Drunk, you say? I can do drunk."

Halium Defenders move into the same village that Frost and Harker are in, following rumors of foreigners in Halium to plant a cotton plantation. That obviously was a red card because cotton doesn't grow in the tundras of South Halium.

They both wore black suits, and a red cap, with pistols easily within reach.

[Arengin Union]

Halium, port of Adelin.

A few days had passed since the signing of the treaty. Arengin ships, both diplomatic and military began to arrive. Soldiers unloaded crates of weapons, ammo, uniforms and other supplies. Diplomats, engineers, and architects began to set plans for an embassy. Brigadier General Victor Delensky exited his ship, accompanied by 40,000 Arengin soldiers and officers who would assist.

The heat of the country was unbearable and the port left much to be desired, as well as the Halium soldiers who seemed more like militia than a real army. Delensky shook his head in disapproval as he walked to the Halium representatives and officers.

"We are here to turn your nation into a modern era stronghold. Commander, I will be taking charge of their training." Soldiers then opened crates with brand new officer clothing that simulated that of Arengin's military and handed them to the Halium officers.

"Put them on. Make the example." Delensky said as he walked to the model-Y car they had brought, he made the gesture for the Halium officers to get in and guide the way while an Arengin soldier drove.

General Delensky

Uniform set given to the Halium officers

Halium, Adelin

the commander of the forces of the 2nd Division, General Xhasa, got into the car and began to brief Delensky as they drove.

"There are small rebellions everywhere, although the threat from largely Manticore, but Transvaal too have lessened this as people begin to get much more scared and band together for protection"

Xhasa pulls out a map "Three divisions are along the Manticore-Halium border, along with our small unit of artillery, ones here, in North Halium, the others in South Halium. Currently there are mostly Yellow Movements going on, Yellow Movements are small local movements for independence, easy to put down, although hard to stop in large numbers."

Xhasa points to Halium City, on the coast of Halium "Right now we're focusing on keeping the rebels out of important cities in Halium"

Delensky saw the map as the car drove on the dirt tracks to the Halium military camp. He examined the info and kept a serious face.

"I have limited numbers now General. I entrust you will use them wisely. The infantry I have shall assist however they can in patrolling cities. As for the spies, I expect you gather more info for me. Also, my officer corp will spread at the locations where all forces are and shall properly equip and train your men. We have hired Zjaum and Arenginian building and mining companies to start building mines and modernize your industry and infrastructure. I expect the cooperation of the people, farming technologies are also being transported to help your agriculture. And I expect to see every officer wearing their uniforms. More are on their way." Delensky said as took off his cap to enjoy the breeze.

"I took a lot of risk by accepting this job General. I hope that your people are ready for the modern world."

[Halium]

Halium, Adelin

the commander of the forces of the 2nd Division, General Xhasa, got into the car and began to brief Delensky as they drove.

"There are small rebellions everywhere, although the threat from largely Manticore, but Transvaal too have lessened this as people begin to get much more scared and band together for protection"

Xhasa pulls out a map "Three divisions are along the Manticore-Halium border, along with our small unit of artillery, ones here, in North Halium, the others in South Halium. Currently there are mostly Yellow Movements going on, Yellow Movements are small local movements for independence, easy to put down, although hard to stop in large numbers."

Xhasa points to Halium City, on the coast of Halium "Right now we're focusing on keeping the rebels out of important cities in Halium"

Delensky saw the map as the car drove on the dirt tracks to the Halium military camp. He examined the info and kept a serious face.

"I have limited numbers now General. I entrust you will use them wisely. The infantry I have shall assist however they can in patrolling cities. As for the spies, I expect you gather more info for me. Also, my officer corp will spread at the locations where all forces are and shall properly equip and train your men. We have hired Zjaum and Arenginian building and mining companies to start building mines and modernize your industry and infrastructure. I expect the cooperation of the people, farming technologies are also being transported to help your agriculture. And I expect to see every officer wearing their uniforms. More are on their way." Delensky said as took off his cap to enjoy the breeze.

"I took a lot of risk by accepting this job General. I hope that your people are ready for the modern world."

Xhasa looked at the Arengin general "Doesn't matter if they're ready, it didn't matter when we were attacked an colonized, and pushed out of our lands. We need to modernize to stop menaces like that."

"Your men will only be used when we absolutely need them."

[Arengin Union]

Delensky saw the map as the car drove on the dirt tracks to the Halium military camp. He examined the info and kept a serious face.

"I have limited numbers now General. I entrust you will use them wisely. The infantry I have shall assist however they can in patrolling cities. As for the spies, I expect you gather more info for me. Also, my officer corp will spread at the locations where all forces are and shall properly equip and train your men. We have hired Zjaum and Arenginian building and mining companies to start building mines and modernize your industry and infrastructure. I expect the cooperation of the people, farming technologies are also being transported to help your agriculture. And I expect to see every officer wearing their uniforms. More are on their way." Delensky said as took off his cap to enjoy the breeze.

"I took a lot of risk by accepting this job General. I hope that your people are ready for the modern world."

Xhasa looked at the Arengin general "Doesn't matter if they're ready, it didn't matter when we were attacked an colonized, and pushed out of our lands. We need to modernize to stop menaces like that."

"Your men will only be used when we absolutely need them."

"Good, that means we wont have any problems. I'm starting to like you general, decided, cooperative and willing. That is what I look in every person I work with." Delensky said.

"Also, if there happen to be any foreign instigators I wish for them to be apprehended and handed to Arengin military. We are good at dealing with them." Delensky said as he kept a small grin while the car kept moving.

[The Twelve Isles]

From: Okoya Bren-so the Tall
To: Empress Bella Cartwine I

Encryption: MAX

Queens must stick together in a world of men. We would like to assist in your war, but we do not have the naval power to ensure that our soldiers land safely. Instead, we have another proposal.

We have a legion of secret female warriors. Some have called them Valkyries; others, Amazons. We call them the Curse Lasses. They are trained for assassination, espionage, and brutal warfare. Better still, they blend in with the rest of society perfectly. If you wish, you can use them. We only ask that you fund their salaries, a reasonable wage for a high-skill soldiers such as they, and that all gained information is shared with us.

To: Okoya Bren-so the Tall
From: Bella Elizabeth Cartwine I, Heiress to the Throne of the Twelve Isles

Queen Okoya, it was good to receive your letter. I, and my people, appreciate your offers for assistance, and must inform you of the situation that my people are facing. We are not rich like we once were, and are unable to pay you any compensation for your assistance in the war. However, should you choose to help us, I am willing to give you cheaper deals on the oil, coal and iron that we produce in the Isles, much like we would trade with our current allies, as well as the promise of our alliance in the future.

If you do grant us access to your soldiers though, it can be assured that any information that they gather will be reported to you.

Your's truly, Bella Elizabeth Cartwine I

[Halium]

SS Rebellion

A few days after the summit, Cali Merui had already left Arengin, knowing his country would need a lot of help globalizing. Toward that end he send two telegrams to two different countries for different reasons, but both he hoped would help Halium.

To: The leader of Zjaum
From: Cali Merui, Lord of Halium

Hello esteemed leader. I, leader of Halium, am seeking an alliance between us, for the best of both our countries. Halium, after a 3-decade long war has no infrastructure left, and is not very developed. Toward that end, I want to give Zjaum trade access to our vast amounts of natural resources, in exchange for your world renowned builders to help develop my country. I await your response.

Remember Democracy,
Cali Out

To: The Twelve Isles
From: Cali Merui

This may seem a little out of the blue. Indeed it is, but I see a similar hope in our countries, both of us want to liberate our countries. The only difference is your still fighting for yours. It is my hope, that when you win, or before then, you remember us, who began our great rebellion 3 decades ago.

Remember Democracy,
Cali Out

[Zjaum]

Pokoyim Apsalu landed on the port of Halium. The air felt different here, probably from the warmer climes. Regardless, it was nice to be in a new land for once. His fleet of ships poured out their contents onto the bay: workers, food and supplies, mining tools, and an armed escort of two hundred soldiers. Apsalu smiled. It was a proud venture, and he was to lead it in the name of Zjaum and the K'shim-poia Mining Company. What a great time to be alive.
The captain of the escort, a man simply known as "Argirix," approached him. "You must be careful around here, sir. It is an undeveloped place, and the natives here are prone to rebellion. The government, and occasionally a few honest businesses, are all that you can trust here."
"Oh, Argirix, stop being so cautious! We are here on a venture, sir. Risk is the name of the game."
Pokoyim greeted the Halium port manager in as best of the native language as he could muster. He handed him a silver coin for his efforts, although the Zjau-yl treasury stamp made the coin accidentally worthless. He help his chin up high. "Now, to find the lord of Halium."