Tempest (IC/Open)

by **Stevid** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 5:17 am

"If possible, so far as it depends
on you, live peaceably with all"
- Romans 12:18

* * *

Somewhere Off the West Coast of Animalpolis
AHSCA

The vast waters of the regional south east were known on Stevidian charts as “Oceanum Infernales”, or the Infernal Ocean. Once upon a time this was just a colloquialism among Imperial sailors, now it was officially stated on the Meteorological Office’s international shipping forecast as such. It was a name well earned, and today it was staying true to its name. The waters were both famous infamous, not just across Greater Dienstad but also the world. Some of the largest hurricanes and tropical storms developed in these warm waters, and many ships and aircraft had fallen prey to their ferocity; and now it seemed the Lord Neptune had a new toy to play with. Transiting north from Wellovia through the sea was the cargo ship Crown Conveyor. She was relatively new at seven years old, registered in the Holy Empire, and a survivor of the war against Imbrinium and Lyras. She had ploughed through many swells the past seven years, but in this particular depression she was nothing but a toy in a bathtub. The storm had no name, not to the crew at any rate, but it was damned near a hurricane and would probably develop beyond storm force 11 into a hurricane in a few days. It was now dusk, very dark, very wet, and the gale was absurdly strong. The ship was bucking, tossing, turning in whatever direction the sea felt. One moment it would crest a wave and then be slammed by a wind tossed cross-swell that would throw the ship violently in other direction, only to find itself facing a rogue wave and then be carried away afterwards on the cyclonic wind swell but facing the wrong direction. But still the ship tirelessly and relentlessly soldiered on through the bitter weather.

The skipper, Captain Francis Targus was on the bridge with the watch crew – the rest were below in the engine room. He stood gripping the railing of the centre console and leaning into the opposite direction of the ship’s list angle. The helmsman was having a nightmare; the Crown Conveyor was barely responding to his steering, and the screws were turning as fast as possible to allow progress and yet that would amount to only a few knots. Sweat poured off his brow as he struggled against the forces of the storm. Others on the bridge were members of the engineering team monitoring the state of the engines with constant exclamations of near panic as the revolutions of screws were reaching critical levels. In order to retain a semblance of control of that massive vessel the engines had to be run a near full revolutions, but this turn overheated the engines and made them liable to failure – a fact not lost on either the engineering team or Targus.

“Engine status?” Targus said across the bridge.

“Running at ninety-five percent. RPM variable, we must be pitching in and out of the water. Drive unit is overheating – monitors are showing critical. If we maintain this power will burn out the drivers!” The Chief Engineer Arnold Steinbeck with a thick Guffingfordii accent that was hard to understand when the man was stressed.

“We can’t afford to let her up.” Said the young helmsman by the name Charlie Moore. “I’m barely getting this thing to five knots! If we let up I’ll have no control.”

“Agreed.” Targus said towards the helmsman. “I’m sorry Chief, but if it’s a choice between us quitting or the ship then the ship will have to blink first. We push for as long as we can and for as long as the ship will let us. Regardless, without that power we’re in God’s hands.”

The ship pitched suddenly to starboard at the Crown Conveyor rolled along a wave down the port side. The helmsman turned the prow down towards the base of the wave to go with it rather than against it, but as it neared the bottom it was slammed on the port fore quarter by a cross-swell the size of a three story house. The ship lurched unnaturally throwing some of the bridge crew to the floor and causing the lights to flicker. The wave careened up the ship as the prow disappeared into the raging black sea and smashed into the left side of the superstructure. The ship lost almost all forward momentum and the wave the Crown Conveyor had been riding fell upon stern. She did not flounder, but the force tore some of the exposed parts of the superstructure to pieces that then tumbled from the ship into the maelstrom. Targus did not need to see the extent of the damage for himself, the GPS mapping link displayed on his command console distorted and then froze completely.

“We’ve lost nav.” He said, supressing a curse.

“… and power.” Said Steinbeck in a dejected tone.

“What? Just now?”

“Aye. That rogue killed forward motion for a few seconds. The drive units were already at critical. The sudden extra effort burned them out. We’re adrift.”

The realisation was not a big a hammer blow as Targus thought it would be. They were all resigned to the fact it was likely the ship wouldn’t make it through the storm, but the lack of navigation was truly a disaster. The ship had an emergency locator beacon, but that too could have been torn from the structure. They needed help and in order to get it they needed to know where they were. Targus paced to a bridge cabinet and fetched a navigation chart and frantically called upon all his knowledge, experience and his seldom used mathematical skills to plot his approximate location. The GPS locator was already damaged in the storm and signal was poor because of it too; an exact fix on the Crown Conveyor’s position had not been possible for hours. Targus had a previous bearing, time elapsed and speed therefore narrowing his position to anywhere between zero and fifty nautical miles off the Animalpolian coast of the AHSCA island chain – when accounting for the north-westerly push of the storm.

“I’ll send out a mayday. AHSCA coast guard might hear us with any luck.” Targus said. In that moment, in spite of the storm, you could hear a pin drop – all on the bridge looked at Captain Targus. “Would you rather die?”

“Skip, maybe we should try for a more local ship?” Suggested his first officer Darius Aquarius with a look of reservation slapped all over his face.

“Another ship in this will be in the same position we are and unable to help.” Targus shot back.

“What about the navy?” Moore suggested while straining at the con wheel.

“They don’t operate this far out too often. It’s too close AHSCA and Aqua Anu. The Mokans and the Lamonians would get upset. An RN ship out here would take days to reach us out of Lamoni, assuming there’s even one there. Fuck pride; I’m not gunna die on account of politics.” Targus said grabbing the radio handset. Thumbing the depressor he heard no feedback telling him that at least the antenna was still attached to the ship and working. “Mayday, mayday, mayday. Crown Conveyor, eighty leagues north out of Wellovia, approximate position GDGR: 560-Whiskey-Zero, on route to Stevidian South Greal. Have lost all power. Conditions difficult. Storm Force 11. Cannot abandon ship.”

Targus continued the mayday while the crew went about donning life jackets and collecting what personal possessions of sentimental value they could get away with bringing. Then the radio buzzed to life with a reply.

“Hello Crown Conveyor, this is Animalpolian Coast Guard responding to your mayday. Good evening sir, we hear you clear! Send required information, we’re sending a team your direction.”

“Crown Conveyor. Roger coast guard. Vessel callsign Sierra-Victor-Delta by Charlie-Charlie-Yankee. Eighty leagues north out of Wellovia on route to Stevidian South Greal. Approximate position GDGR: 560-Whiskey-Zero between zero and five-zero nautical miles west of Animalpolis. Have lost all power. Conditions difficult. Storm Force 11. Cannot abandon ship. Souls: fourteen. Manifest: Non-restricted, non-toxic – details held on board and at last port of call. Over.”

There was a delay, one the lasted an eternity, and Targus knew why. The coast guard buzzed back again, “Coast Guard. Crown Conveyor, please confirm callsign prefix as Sierra-Victor-Delta?”

“Here goes…” Targus said aloud to his bridge crew who were all fixated on the conversation. “Confirmed. Crown Conveyor is an Imperial registered ship.”

There was a thunderous jolt that knocked everyone off their feet and it was joined by the horrifying noise of tortured metal. The Crown Conveyor rocked over and onto something on the starboard amidships with a list so steep containers stacked on the deck began to spill off the side. But as the wave that the ship was riding passed over the ship it crashed magnificently into a tall immovable object creating a massive wall of white spray. The Crown Conveyor slumped back to a resting position as the wave retreated leaving it beached on jagged rocks a hundred metres from a cliff face that was only marginally taller than the ship. One of the crew managed to turn the exterior lights on and the area was flooded with brightness. The scale of the cargo ship's situation was now clear. She was properly beached before a cliff and every wave pushed her further on and dragged a gouge deeper into her keel.

The whole crew was now assembled on the bridge and in heaps on the floor. The sudden grounding of the Crown Conveyor had stunned everyone, and some crew members were sporting nasty cuts to arms and heads from when the fell. As the crew tended to the wounded and desperately tried to stable themselves as the vessel was tossed upon the rocks the radio buzzed again, this time the voice was foreign but not from AHSCA.

“Kuronian tanker Blossom to Crown Conveyor, relaying message from Stevidian Royal Navy corvette Oscar-Papa-Victor five-six-one-one stationed in east Lamoni. Message as follows: Crown Conveyor STOP Remain on board for as long as possible and prepare to abandon vessel STOP Abandon at last possible safe moment STOP Do not, repeat, do not make safe landing on AHSCA. STOP Await rescue from other non-aligned or Imperial flagged vessel. OUT.”

The crew all looked at Targus again who snorted in derision and walked over to the radio and turned it off. “Bit late for that now.” He turned back to his gathered crew, “None of you heard that message. We’re getting off on these islands – just…for the love of God, I know it’s ridiculous but… remember your passports.”

by **AHSCA** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 7:19 pm

UISDF - Navy Command

AHSCA could be described as a paradox. On the surface it largely held onto the old ways, ways of living for centuries. BUT below that surface, it had built up a well prepared defensive force in the years since the devastating war that finally forced a decision on the debate between unifying or co-opting. Unity won out for survival and now here we are today. In the Naval Command Center this late evening, eyes and ears were all primed around, usually just watching the weather and passing ships. This part of Greater Dienstad, and probably the world at large, was rather treacherous for ships. Large storms can swamp even the most seasoned sailor if they aren't careful and even native ships aren't immune to this. That's why they're always watching, not so much for enemy threats but for ships in distress. One such monster had brewed up some time ago, maybe a day or two and had formed into a massive hurricane. It wasn't threatening AHSCA proper, at worst it might make some rough tide to make swimmers and mariners cautious but it certainly could be bad news for ships in the area if they wandered into it's path. The gals and guys watching the monitors and charting the storm's path were also noting that even the storm's outer bands were a bit violent too. Supervising them, Captain Shino Tadiyama, Naval Captain from Animalpolis, kitsunemimi who joined as soon as she was able. Long tradition of sailors, fisherman and mariners in her family, proud seafarers.

"Yeah that's a real nasty customer out there. She's really furious tonight." She being a reference to Homura, the Dark Goddess in AHSCA Religion, Goddess of night, storm, rain, love, lust and all the primal emotions of nature and mankind everywhere.

"Cap!" A girl called over her Captain on duty to her station. "Getting a faint blip about here." Her cat ears sagged a little as she pondered the direction.

"That's a ship than she's wandering into some dangerous territory. But I imagine they'd have spotted it and will do a course correction." She said ready to just assume it was one of many in this part of the region crossing to dodge the storm or about facing quickly. But no sooner than she had a distress call came over the wire. Mayday mayday mayday, yup they were in trouble.

"Units deploy, we have a ship in distress! Heavy weather conditions, be careful." She gave out coordinates and other details relayed to her to her scram team. A group of navy sailors were hastily scrambling to go save the ship in distress. "Can they shore up?" She asked her radar watcher. Just in the off chance maybe they could tow them onto safety or escort them in through the path of least resistance.

"I don't think so, ma'am, that ships in true trouble. Best we can do is lift the crew out and get them ashore as quickly as possible."

"Aye."

"Ma'am, there's an issue." Another Officer told her. "The ship is Stevidan origin."

"Oh you gotta be kidding me!"

"'Fraid not, Ma'am. The registry we ran matches."

"Shit." Old procedure was really to stay out of each other's way; leave each other alone, lest they have another incident that causes Stevid to return guns a blazing again. Hostilities had largely died between the two states in the years since the war BUT they were anything but warm right now. "Well, folks need help, they need help. I'll accept responsibility."

"Yes, Captain."

Navy ships, navy choppers racing to the scene. See, AHSCA really doesn't have a standard maritime coast guard per se. Really the police patrol the immediate coastlines, the Navy handles everything else. There are trimmed down Naval ships, planes and choppers for urgent rescue assignments such as these.

"Cap, should we drop them Embassy Isle or land?"

"Stevid doesn't have an embassy with us, The EI really isn't really equipped with facilities for them. Well suppose it's only right to show them that good ol'e island hospitality." She said that with a rather sardonic tone. She was born after the war but she heard plenty of stories from her older relatives, well once they were on land it was not her problem, it was the folks in the government to worry about. "Team is ETA 2 minutes to destination."

"Maybe we can get them into the outer bands? I'm worried about those eye wall winds."

"No further radio coms from them, Ma'am. Ma'am based on the ship data I think they're in stormy conditions but not impossible."

"Fine time for a hurricane."

On the harsh stormy oceans they finally got the ship in their sights "Target." The pilot noted, getting the powerful searchlight onto them. "Looks like crew is holding out."

"They're smashed on the rocks, too dangerous to get a ship close and no way we can get a diver in there. Gonna have to dry for a basket deployment."

"Roger, proceed with caution."

This was going to be a difficult task, getting them airlifted off the rocks with the high winds, rain and waves this was proving to be one of the most challenging rescues. "Gah, hold 'er steady, Mayuri!"

"Trying to, she''s really swaying good in the wind!"

Riding down the basket was a rescue sailor ready to hoist them up one by one. This tedious task took some time, fourteen persons which took two choppers to extract them all and get them off the rocks before they'd certainly slip and drown.

"Super 6-1 reporting, 7 survivors aboard."

"Super 6-2 reporting, 7 survivors aboard."

"Roger that, Super 6-1 Super 6-2 proceed to HMS Nanao for processing."

"Roger, proceeding."

It was about 25 minutes more the two choppers crossed into calmer seas, calmer conditions to an awaiting carrier, built by Mokastana hands, partially paid for by Lamoni and operated by AHSCA. A real multinational ship indeed. Right now, no one on the ship was aware these were Stevidan nationals, right now they were just unlucky sailors plucked from the sea caught up in one of AHSCA's infamous storms and the main priority now was to get them into med bay for a full examination quickly.

Aboard the HMS Nanao

The Male Officer escorting them with a pair of sailors, one male, one female, ordered, "Get them blankets, hot tea and grab the Chief Medical Officer."

"Aye sir."

"Well you folks are a bit beat up but I'd say no worse for the wear." He took a look at them as well, having enough rudimentary first aid training he could begin some basic treatments at least.

by **Stevid** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 6:39 am

Crown Conveyor

Targus could hear the thrumming drone of helicopters even through the roaring wind, but he could see them before that. Braving hurricane force winds, two helicopters with bright searchlights powered through the conditions to the stricken ship. She had settled better on the rocks now and so the shifting under every wave was gentler than before, but the wind kept her swaying still. But on every wave, one could hear the strains of tortured metal, the odd lurch, and the deep vibrations through the ship; below the waterline, the Crown Conveyor was slowly breaking apart. The ship was now well lit and the crew gathered towards the rear of the super structure in a open space designed for such airlift evacuations. One by one, the helicopters took the crew aboard and made for safety.

Targus, being the Captain, was the last to be airlifted. Soaked through even with his anorak, a flight crew member draped him with a warm foil blanket.

“Welcome aboard Super 6-1, Sir.” Said the crew member.

“Thank you, mate. Francis Targus, I’m the captain of the Crown Conveyor. Sorry to put you in this position… and I don’t mean because of the storm.”

“We’ll worry about that later. Right now, your wellbeing and that of your crew is the top priority.”

The helicopters departed, but as the flight crew began checking over the members of the Crown Conveyor it became quite apparent they were all staring at one particular flight crew member. Some in shock, some in actual fear. The feline features and triangular ears that marked one of the crew members as an Animalpolian were hard for a Stevidian, or anyone, to miss. The flight crew member looking over Targus looked over to their crewmate and then back to Targus, resuming his physical checks.

“Never seen one before?” He asked.

“Veritas.” Targus swallowed, unable to look away in the same way someone terrified of spiders would stare frozen in place. “They’re called Homo Sapien Veritas in the Empire. Post-Shift adherents to the Holy Marsh. We’re not really supposed to talk to them.”

“They’re Animalpolian. That’s different to being of Marshism.” The flight crewmember said nonchalantly.

“I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.” Targus said finally looking away. “Not sure I want to.”

HMS Nanao

It was well into the night now but Targus was thankful for the calmer winds and gentle seas, and for the sight of a flight deck. An aircraft carrier by the name Nanao. One of the flight crew outlined to him how such a country as AHSCA even had access to one. Targus was no military man, nor was he particularly cultured. A working man through and through that had plied his trade working boats, then cutters, then ships across the seas. He had visited many places, but of course not AHSCA. But his perceptions of AHSCA were not educated ones. He knew they were islands – tropical and pretty. But the extent of his knowledge of the country was that it was nothing more than a breadbasket economy banana republic. It was not as if this was some myth perpetuated by the Empire, on the contrary, there was little to no information on AHSCA within the Holy Empire and the acknowledgement of sovereignty was pretty much the only thing the government was willing to detail. The existence of a carrier challenged Targus’ belief immediately. He knew full well Lamoni and Mokastana were close international associates of AHSCA and their de facto protectors, but he only really knew this because of previous communiques he had had over his career with the Royal Navy. In the interests of not directly or indirectly fabricating a diplomatic incident, Royal Navy ships would limit their activities in the far south east. The government had also promised not to open any shore establishment or military specific colonies around Oceanum Infernales. In fact, the only activities they undertook were freedom of transit and official visits, and they were few and far between.

The helicopters touched down on the flight deck and the crew members of the Crown Conveyor were whisked away for a medical check up before the ‘inevitable’ had to be dealt with. Targus was beginning to get uncomfortable with this looming inevitability. It was his decision to ignore the Stevidian navy ship, which would no doubt frantically trying to establish the fate of the Crown Conveyor and likely had already been told. But it was far beyond that now – regardless whether the AHSCA chain of command on the carrier or their politicians (those who knew of the incident) had no qualms with having Stevidians in the care like this, Targus’ own government did.

“I really need to speak to your captain.” Targus said, getting restless as he was checked over by the officer.

“Soon. The medical officer will have to look at you first. Drink your tea and try to relax.”

“You don’t understand. Me, my crew, we’re not ‘supposed’ to be here. We’ve strict rules about being in AHSCA, least of all a bloody carrier.”

“Stevidian’s are allowed in my country.” The officer smiled. “I’ve met them.”

“It’s not illegal, as such. It’s just… complicated – and political…”

HMS Iratorum – Galway Class Corvette
East Lamoni

Captain Erandus Bushell of the Iratorum was sat at his desk filing his day’s paperwork, but not through any argent necessity but rather to take his mind of affairs. He was a diligent man, and good at his job – he held the rank of captain, not just the position. As captain of a corvette and holding the rank too, one would be right in thinking the command of a corvette may have been a bit beneath Bushell, and they would be right. But Erandus Bushell was also the commanding officer of the Far South East Monitor Squadron made up of three echelons of offshore patrol vessels and three corvettes, with the Iratorum (meaning Anger) being the flagship. It was without a doubt one of the most laidback and easier command appointments in the entire Royal Navy. Based out of north eastern Lamoni, literally no enemies of the Holy Empire for thousands of kilometres, and practically no piracy, Bushell’s job was to ensure that freedom of movement and safe passage on the trading routes was maintained.

Today was different.

OPV-5611, the HMS Serenity, had been operating east of the landmass to the Free Republic’s south east on an anti-piracy patrol when it received a relayed mayday from the Stevidian flagged Crown Conveyor. The ship had been tossed north easterly by a major tropical depression in the Infernal Ocean towards AHSCA. Their last GDGR position was practically off the coast of one of the islands – then nothing. Silence. A foreign tanker, the Blossom, had been relaying the signals for the Serenity and they too reported negative communications. The patrol vessel took it upon itself to steam towards AHSCA but was easily three-or four-days travel away. Despite that, the commander of the Serenity was confident he could get direct communication with AHSCA if need be. Bushell had denied this. Flatly and firmly.

Now his command had come across its first real complication and it was already beyond his control. This was a good thing, he had reckoned, because it meant that there was literally nothing he could do. It had yet to be twelve hours since the last communication with the Crown Conveyor and so he felt no need to report to Theatre Command the development, yet. It was then a young lieutenant knock on his door, threw up a salute, and gave him an update.

“Good evening Sir. Serenity has been hailing the Crown Conveyor since contact was lost at twenty-forty hours. Freighter Blossom has also been trying with negative response. But…”

“Here it comes…” Bushell said slinking back into his chair.

“Carrier Nanao of United Island States Defence Force has stated… on open frequency… that they have the crew of the Crown Conveyor in their care following a rescue. Serenity reports that the UIS has stated all crew are alive and well.”

“Well at least that’s good news.” Bushell said before running his hands through his hair and then down is face with groan. “Were they not told specifically not to go to the UIS for aid?”

“Yes sir.” The lieutenant said flatly.

“It doesn’t matter. When you face death, better the devil you know. Besides, it’s only the politicians that care; arguably only our politicians that care. Speaking of which, this is above my pay grade – I’ll tell the Theatre Command. They’ll tell the Admiralty. After that, it is no longer my problem. Thank you, lieutenant.”

The young man snapped another salute and walked off, but Bushell shouted down the corridor at him. “Oh and recall the Serenity! And tell them there are to be no more communications with the UIS beyond standard maritime procedures!”

Imperial Foreign Office
Stevid Capita

Within the monolithic fortress hive city that was the capital of the Holy Empire was yet another fortress in the Lowland district. Surrounded by towering buildings of steel and concrete modelled in gothic neo-classic architecture was the Citadel. The heart of government, the heart of Empire. The buildings that make up the capital tend to stack upon one another in the central point of the circular city, creating a sprawling spire. A few miles out of that, the buildings remain tens to hundreds of stories tall but do not reach the unfathomable heights of the centre of the hive. This is where the Citadel lies, within the city but still within the light of day. The city is charmless and lacking the finesse of modern design. But the styling of the gothic buildings and cathedrals exemplify Imperial power. The Citadel was no different and was arguably more extreme. Best described as a castle within a castle, it had a wide avenue lined with statues of saints, as well as Stevidian kings, queens, viceroys, regents. There were two grand marble arches, the famous one leading to the very heart of the Citadel, Vestibulum Imperium. To walk within the Citadel was a rare honour, but it meant also being dwarfed by the immensity of central government – literally. Within this massive government multiplex district of towering buildings that sometimes look more churchlike than office was the Imperial Foreign Office. It was gargantuan and situated a short distance away from the Vestibulum Imperium arch, which leads to the central government offices and the seat of the Prime Minister and Parliament.

Foreign Secretary Sir Ruixus Tictus was the voice and face of Stevidian foreign policy and diplomatic relations. A patriot, a true Stevidian and true Stevidian aristocrat, which was patently obvious by his name. His diplomatic background was formidable; he had overseen the Guffingfordii handover to the Golden Throne, was part of the mid-war dialogue with the Covenant alliance, a vocal opponent to Morrdh’s seizure of Tuktar in Krasnova, as well as a sharp critic of the previous Morridane administration. Crucially for the scenario now facing Stevid in the face of Imperial citizens now being in the care of AHSCA, Sir Ruixus had been a part of the diplomatic party that organised an end to the war around the United Island States, but then as a junior minister – but also previously a driving force in Parliament to not recognise AHSCA as a nation-state.

On being informed of the situation Sir Ruixus had laughed heartily, being a firm believer that it was only inevitable that a situation like this would arise at some point in time thus forcing the two nations together. He may have lost the argument over the official recognition of AHSCA as a sovereign nation, but it did not affect his pragmatism on wanting to deal with this issue. The fact was that Stevidian citizens were in the care of AHSCA, which had legal implications in Stevid – if not AHSCA. As a stickler for rules, law, tradition and convention, Sir Ruixus was the type of man to follow them all to the letter. This made him a brilliant legislator and fierce political opponent in the debating chambers, but incredibly inflexible on certain affairs. This situation may well be one of those moments where flexibility is necessary. This inflexibility would display itself within the first communication between the two nations in years, as Stevid had no embassy in AHSCA (something the state refused to commit to) but direct state-to-state communication to AHSCA was banned and permitted only through an embassy!
In order for the two to even talk, on account of Holy Empire’s arrogance and strict laws, messages had to be sent to the Imperial embassy in Nephi, Lamoni, for forwarding to the UIS embassy there too, and then vice versa for communication back. From the get-go, the situation was nothing short of ridiculous.

For the first time in years, the Holy Empire of the Kingdoms of Stevid and Rubet sent a diplomatic communique, indirectly, to the United Island States of AHSCA:

His Will, to the government of the United Island States of Aurora, Hoshino, Stilleståndö, Corona and Animalpolis,

The Holy Empire of the United Kingdoms of Stevid and Rubet hereby wishes to express its gratitude to your country for the timely and professional rescue of the captain and crew of the Crown Conveyor. It is regrettable that this situation has occurred, and the Empire wishes to repatriate the crew and material of the ship as soon as practicable. However, this nation wishes to also express to the UIS that the return of said material and personnel direct to the Holy Empire is not strictly possible due to strict legislation preventing the movement of people and goods between our two nations. The laws of the Holy Empire, under God, are sacrosanct and sovereign; meaning that one cannot expect the Empire and King to break their own laws.

Therefore, the Holy Empire petitions for a representative of UIS to meet with the Foreign Secretary, Sir Ruixus Tictus to discuss possibilities on how to overcome any legal obstacles our nations may have. This can be in a location of your government’s choosing, be it in Stevid or in your own nation.

The Empire will await your response.

By God’s Grace, and peace to His people on Terra.

Nos Pugnamus Pro Deus

by **Mokastana** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 8:21 am

Naval Station Aurora,
PUF military base located on Aurora Island, UIS of AHSCA

During storms like this, Naval Station Aurora cooperated with the UISDF Navy Command to provide aid if requested. It had only a handful of helicopters and patrol vessels, but it's main duty, besides acting as a public airport, was handing rescue missions during storms like this. What vessels could take shelter in its port did so, including one PUF helicopter carrier normally used to guard the shipping lanes itself.

The AFP Barracuda was a Wasp Class Shipping Lane Patrol Vessel, whose duty was to protect the vital shipping lane between Wellovia and Mokastana, as both were territory of the People's Unified Federation. As the storm ravaged the southeastern seas, the AFP Barracuda retreated towards Naval Station Aurora to hold out until the storm passed. Most vessels managed to escape the storm, but a few did not, and there were a couple SOS signals coming from the Wellovia-Mokastana lane. No doubt the Barracuda would be sent back out as soon as the storm passed to begin rescue operations.

However one such conversation caught the attention of the Naval Station, a Stevidian ship starting in Federal Waters was being rescued by the local authorities. It didn't take long before station commander, Juan Herrera, was summoned to the command room.

"Commander, it sounds like the Stevidian crew has been rescued and is currently being held aboard the Nanao."

"Well, this will be an exciting time, won't it?" Juan looked around the room before deciding what to do. No doubt the Stevidian government would be annoyed with the PUF, given that their ship started in the Federal territory of Wellovia, and could have been rescued by PUF Naval Station Aurora, instead of ending up like this. Given he was in command of the theatre, his superiors would likely pass that annoyance along, especially since they've been trying to improve Stevidian relations for the past few years. However, it wasn't his job to pamper Stevidian feelings when lives were on the line. A rescue is a rescue, feelings can be pushed aside when trying to survive mother nature. Turning to his command room, he put on a look of determined satisfaction, "We continue operating as normal. There are other vessels farther out that will need our help soon, make sure the Barracuda is in deployment shape. We remain on standby if the UIS requests help, so far they have not. As you were."

by **AHSCA** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 5:21 pm

Aboard the Nanao

The crew seemed jittery which wasn't a big surprise given what they just went through but then came a rather unexpected bombshell reveal, they were Stevidan nationals. Well, that was going to make things complicated because both nations really hadn't been on great terms since the closing days of the war. Stevid rather begrudgingly recognized AHSCA but the two nations just kept their distance.

"Stevid." He repeated still not quite believing his ears. But that's what he heard all right they repeated it, they weren't supposed to be here. Well what would be done with them, wasn't his call to make, but now he was going to have to ring up the ship Admiral to come down here at once. The door opened, in walked the ship's Chief Medical Officer Hatsumi Otsuka, a human and a "young woman", relatively speaking, ambiguous to tell often, many islanders were older than they often looked. "Otsuka." He greeted her.

"Evening. How are they doing?" She washed her hands up real quick then began he examination.

"Well they've taken some lashings but they seem okay. But I'll leave it to you to give them the full work down. I did some basics and got started. I actually need to bring down Admiral Houten."

"Is it needed? I'm sure she's been briefed and is aware of them being here."

"Well it's gotten a lot more complicated. I'll be back in a moment"

"All right." She said "Well, gentlemen, I'm the Chief Med Officer here, if you'd rather have a male physician we can get someone down here but this will probably be a quick exam to make sure you're all okay." She quickly ran down a list of any effects they may be feeling from their injuries to see if any further treatments would be required beyond some bandages and a few days rest.

Office of Admiral Houten

In command of the ship, Admiral Clara Houten, a Stillestando native, also human in her case. Her phone rang, "Yes?" She paused to listen to the other line. "Wait, you're saying these sailors we just rescued are Stevidan nationals? Oh that's just great. Thank you." Now she was going to have to make a few calls herself, namely to sort through this bureaucratic . "This is Admiral Houten of The Nanao, I'm going to need to relay an urgent message along to the Foreign Office. Okay that's fine just get it along, okay, this is an urgent message. We just engaged in a S&R Op tonight and the people we pulled and are treating aboard are Stevidan nationals. Yes that's exactly correct. I'm going to need further information before we dock. In the meantime I'm going to go see them now. Out." Grabbing her cap she went along down to the med bay. "Admiral."

"How are they?"

"Well they seem okay, a few sprangs here and there but no serious injuries that I can tell."

"Very good. I'm Admiral Houten, Captain of the HMS Nanao Her Majesty's Navy. Welcome aboard." Well what else was she really supposed to say. "I think we all know the legal and political complications of you being here but you were in distress so I'm sure this will go over fine. You men aware our two nations at present don't have any open diplomatic channels? That means it could be a few days time before our two governments get you. Well be assured you aren't prisoners here but in the interest of all the men and women in my command I will confine you all to quarters until I'm given further orders of just what I'm to do with you. I suspect at some point they'll let you go ashore and arrange lodging if needed. Just so happens The Nanao is due for her maintenance so I don't think you'll be here all the time."

Home of Roshin Tendo - Deputy Foreign Officer

Time was going onto about 2 AM right about now, the young Deputy Foreign Officer, Roshin Tendo nestled asleep all curled under her blankets in her home on Animalpolis. A gentle rain patted against the half-propped open window all of a sudden she was stirred awake by a knocking at her door. "yeeeah" Roshin sleepily called for whomever was at the door to just come in. In came a couple of young ladies from the Foreign Office, just general staff members. "Deputy Tendo." She set the lantern down as she ran over to her to shake her awake despite being awake already. "c'mon i'm already awake, what is it, what time is it?"

"middle of the night I guess, no moon, I can't tell."

"I would think so, it's raining. What is it?"

"There's a real urgent situation. UISDF Navy commenced a search-and-rescue operation of a ship in distress."

"What happened a crash?" If that were the case though, it would fall on Defense Office rather than her but at this point she was still waking up.

"No, it was successful."

"Good, then what's so urgent then?"

"The sailors rescued are Stevidan nationals. Stevid!"

"I'm half-asleep because I think you just said--"

"I did, Stevid."

Roshin slid out of bed. "Noir is in Cartoonia and Her Highness is in Tupioca." Roshin said as she was hastily was getting dressed. "That means....Ho boy! I'm gonna have to try to get through this."

"We should inform her though."

"I agree but it's going to take time to get a message to The Duchess. Let's inform the Princess for now and Miss Pacifica and Miss Miela."

"Yes ma'am. What about the Former Duchess and Former Duke-Consort?"

"Mmmm....That's gonna drudge up a lot of bad memories for her. Let's keep things quite okay? Best thing to do is to make sure only those who need to know, know."

"Yes ma'am."

"Let's see....Okay we need to get our Embassies in Mokastana and Lamoni alerted too, they're going to have to do all our talking for us. Get their Ambassadors to the Embassy Isle on the double and let's see if any of them have gotten any communiques. "

"Yes ma'am."

"Do I have a transport myself?"

"Military has one on the way, should be here in a few moments."

"All right."

Aurora Ducal Palace - Room of Princess Gisella Villa

Going onto about 3:40 AM now. With her sister away, Gisella really had a few ceremonial powers she could exercise, otherwise matters could easily be handled by the various Officers. But what happens when a really complicated matter like this rears its head? Well someone in Government has to take charge. Much like the sudden awakening Roshin got, Gisella was also being summoned awake by a few members of the foreing office, relaying much of the same info. "Sorry Milady but it was at Deputy Tendo's insistence you be informed."

"That seems like a good idea. I know it hasn't been very long but anything from my sister yet?"

"None as of yet, Milady but we're working to get her informed. Same with Officer VinoCacao in Cartoonia"

"Even then I don't suspect they'll be racing home but let me know the moment they get in touch okay?"

"Of course, Milady. Milady, in regards to your mother, Deputy also felt it was best to not inform her..."

"Yeah I agree. I'd really rather not tell her right now. Don't worry, It seems you're already on top of things so I'll mostly be here to parrot whatever sis tells me when she calls. I'm sure this will be quick and done with in a day or so."

"Of course, Milady. Have a nice night." They bowed to her and left her presence. "Well, I'm up now." She muttered to herself. Taking a look out her window. It was nice on Aurora, clear, quite and calm but what was going to happen next, was something she was going to have to see. "I can do this. Don't worry, Marcella, I'm gonna handle this like a pro!"

by **Goram** » Mon Mar 15, 2021 10:32 am

Royal Navy patrol aircraft, "Saturn 66JE"

Saturn 66 Juliet-Echo plodded onwards through the darkening blue sky. Night was falling in this part of the world, and the modified airliner was doing its best to outrun the coming darkness. The machine charged west on its outbound patrol leg, but the gross weight and altitude of the aeroplane confined it to only Mach .72 and that was nowhere close to being fast enough. Yet for the two pilots, this was no bad thing. They had been flying into the constantly setting sun for some time now, and every time it threatened to disappear - the machine would be asked to continue its climb. 2,000' at a time, their flight profile looked like a flight of steps as they were confined by busy Goramite airspace. It was a truly tedious way to fly, although a necessary one. Most military flights were not constrained by civilian air traffic control or the usual flight rules that airliners are bound by. However, 66 Juilet-Echo had to blend in. Its job was to hide within the outbound lines of oceanic traffic and look for vessels on the surface of the sea that may well be up to no good. It would do this with an immensely powerful surface search radar set, designed to be difficult to detect so that any target would not be aware of a radar looking at them. It was a new tactic in the United Kingdom's crusade against piracy, slavery, trafficking and narcotics. The idea was to help give intercepting ships and aircraft a greater element of surprise and thus try and cut down casualties - a factor to which the government was keenly aware, as it was doing them no favours at all in the polls.

It was regarded as vitally important work, and it paid dividends, but the pilots were growing to hate it. It meant 2,000' step climbs, which had kept the sun on the horizon for at least the past our. The light was not exactly blinding, but it was an irritant. And there is very little better at ruining a pilot's mood than a mild irritant. Yet, 66 Juliet-Echo was at it's cruising level and out into oceanic airspace. It's flight path and speed was finally set. Within half an hour, 66 Juliet-Echo would finally lose its tentative grip on the slowly sinking sun.

The flight deck door slowly swung open, and a Technical Sergeant edged in. He was armed with the most important safety equipment on the aeroplane - a cup of coffee in each hand. He handed a cup to each of the pilots and crouched down between the two seats to get a better look out of the windscreen.

"Look at that"

He said, of the disappearing orange globe

"Absolutely beautiful isn't it?"

The Captain's eyes rolled, practically all the way around in his head.

"No, it's bloody not! This coffee is though."

Like the sunset, the coffee was not beautiful. it was a particularly awful - but very cheap - instant blend that came out of a sachet. But the cabin altitude of 8,000' ruins the palet, and so the cheap instant tasted just the same as a freshly ground brew.

"How are we doing back there, Chris?"

The Captain continued.

"Yes, fine. The snoopers are monitoring their channels and the radar is off and going. Nothing as yet, but I'll let you know if we pick anything up."

Two hours into the patrol, just over a quarter of the sortie, and the crew were well settled into their routine. The equipment was set to do its thing, and all the people needed to do was monitor it. As such, you could be forgiven for looking at the crew of Saturn 66 Juliet-Echo and mistaking them for uniformed passengers. The snoopers idly listened to radio chatter, from EHF to HF, and the radar technician kept half an eye on the movie-esque green screen. But you could not possibly say the equipment had even half of their attention. They sat in their seats and passed the time with chatter, reading or what have you.

Yet when the HF burst into life, it was not missed.

Mayday, mayday, may-Crown Conveyor, eighty leagues north out of Wellovia-Conditions difficult. Storm Force 11. Cannot abandon ship.

"I've got a mayday here."

The operator dropped her book and swung into action. In a second or two, the Technical Sergeant was over her shoulder.

"Where?"

"Miles away. It came through on the HF. Must be propagating off the atmosphere, it's thousands of miles away."

Hello Crown Conveyor, this is Animalpolian Coast Guard responding to your mayday. Good evening sir, we hear you clear! Send required information, we’re sending a team your direction.

This second came through much clearer, and the crew listened as the scene played out.

"Well, at least they won't drown. Not much we can do. I'll tell the guys at the front anyway."

The Technical Sergeant recounted the incident to the pilots, and once he'd finished he could not quite understand the look of incredulity on the Captain's face.

"So you're telling me, you picked up and HF signal from a Stevian ship in distress and it was rescued by an AHSCA warships? And you're not joking?"

"No, why would I be? It's not unusual to pick up long range HF?"

"No, no, it isn't. But the Stevians and the AHSCA, they don't exactly like each other. Call it in, Chris and make sure we have as complete a recording as ever we can. There's going to be some people at home very interested in this."

by **Cartoonia** » Tue Mar 16, 2021 10:34 am

The Cartoonian Embassy Office, Embassy Isle, AHSCA

Jellal was fortunate to have this job as ambassador to the United Island States. First of all, it’s a chance to serve the Cartoon Government, the very one who saved him from slavery in the Tower of Heaven many years ago. Second, it was a cushy job, especially during the Cartoon winter months. Here, it was much warmer and clearer than back home at the moment, well except today since it has been stormy outside for a while. His main task as ambassador was of course to represent Cartoonia and her interests here in AHSCA as well as build and maintain these close relationships they hold dear. He enjoys his role with pride and often in days off would travel down to the islands himself.

This week was an exception. He hears a commotion coming from outside of the main embassy building on the island shared by other ambassadors of the other nations. He is most confused at the whole situation going on. Maybe it had to do something outside, with the stormy weather going on. He decided to look outside to see what’s going on. His window looks out to see, it appears to be that different naval and civilian maritime vessels were out and about in the stormy weather. This still doesn’t answer Jellal’s questions. Someone entered the office that would answer his questions. His head security officer Glenn Quagmire.

“Good evening sir” He says, “Looks like another stormy night on the island. Afraid, it's going to be harder with all the commotion going about”.

“Officer Quagmire, what is going on out there?”

“A ship has wrecked at sea, and AHSCA dispatched some of their naval vessels to rescue them”.

“Well, this should be expected then. We all know that these are dangerous waters around here”.

“There is a slight problem though. That vessel that is wrecked is operated and owned by citizens of The Holy Empire of Stevid”.

“Oh dear, that is a problem. I know for a fact that AHSCA and Stevid are not on particularly good footing ever since the 1990s, and the whole war of independence”. Jellal stops to think.

“Stevid sir,” Quagmire starts, “are they a close ally of ours?”

“I wouldn’t say close per se like AHSCA is to us, but they are a regional ally. They are apart of the GDRC and our ambassador sees their ambassador often, though we do not have an embassy in Stevid and vice versa. We cannot have a conflict between two nations in the region. One small war could lead to a massive conflict with many powers included given our knowledge of history”.

‘Well, I don’t think it’s too much of an issue, given the relative peacefulness that has stood for years”.

“That doesn’t mean an end to uneasy relations”. Jellal is still in his thoughts, then Quagmire remembered one important thing.

“Sir, isn’t the AHSCA foreign officer, Noir VinoCacao in Cartoonia as we speak?”

“That is the case. Though the reason for her visit was never specified. I know that she is there. I must send a telegram to the AHSCA embassy back home, and to our foreign office”.

“Wise choice sir”. Quagmire leaves, as Jellal begins dictating the letter to be sent through telegram.

Cartoonian Embassy Telegram Communications

Raphtalia Iwatani, Secretary of Foreign Affairs
Cartoon Department of Foreign Affairs Office
19293 Histeria Way.
Gallagher, Mainland Province, Cartoonia.

CC: Shino Matoba, Ambassador of AHSCA to Cartoonia
Embassy of AHSCA
47312 Cartoonia Way.
Gallagher, Mainland Province, Cartoonia.

To Secretary Iwatani and Mrs. Matoba,

We have witnessed an event in the United Island States that seems to be most concerning. It appears that a Stevid ship has wrecked near on the oceans during a stormy night. AHSCA naval ships have rescued survivors from the wreck and have been given hospitality. Given the situation between AHSCA and Stevid diplomatic troubles, especially because of war and strife, we would want to bring this up as I will be watching this situation unfold most diligently.

I also know that Officer Noir VinoCacao of AHSCA’s foreign office is currently in Cartoonia, for whatever reason is unknown to me, but I would like this message sent to her as soon as possible. As for us, it is our wishes that our allies, close and regional, have the most open relationship, but given the unfortunate series of events in the past, it might seem impossible. I know Cartoonia will try to help maintain peace, but we hope a proper agreement can be established.

Thank you,

Jellal Fernandes, Ambassador of Cartoonia to AHSCA,
Embassy of Cartoonia,
Embassy Isle, AHSCA.

by **Mokastana** » Wed Mar 24, 2021 7:13 am

PUF Embassy,
Embassy Isle,
United Island States of AHSCA

Ambassador Zachary Noel had been one of the longest serving diplomats of the People's Unified Federation, serving in charge of the diplomatic mission to AHSCA for well over two decades. A native of Wellovia, his presence really demonstrated the new multicultural image of the PUF. Through storms of both the literal and figurative senses, Ambassador Noel had been there. He was present when the PUF naval station expanded to include an airport, when the Federation helped fund schools in AHSCA, and oversaw the aid packages that helped to modernise the UIS military.

So when he finally retired a few years ago, there was a lot of history to be remembered between the UIS and PUF by his successor. Of the many candidates vying for the position, it only made sense to pick the one who had history with AHSCA reaching back earlier than either Mokastana's or Wellovia's relations.

Ambassador Nanami Kondo was an older woman, pushing past 50, but her youth had been in the service of Aqua Anu; one of the nations that fought alongside AHSCA during their unification, and now, a member nation of the PUF. She had been present during the War of Unification, albeit as a fresh Petty Officer working on a cruiser. She didn't see the conflict from the confines of her lower deck duties, but she remembered the aftermath. Politically, they had fought the Holy Empire to a stalemate, a return to status quo with a free and independent AHSCA, but back at home the Navy had felt the cost of the conflict.

Moving up in the ranks over the years, Nanami eventually became a captain of her own ship. She remembered the day Aqua Anu joined the Federation, watching the Anuien Flag flag lower, and then raised again, just below a new Federal Flag updated with Anuien Blue. After she retired from the Navy, she tried living at home in a village, but civilian life wasn't for her. She wanted to travel and joined up with the Anuien Foreign aministry. Many posts and jobs later she was recruited into the Federal Foreign Ministry where she was assigned to AHSCA.

For four years she served under Ambassador Noel, until he finally retired and recommended her as his successor. Although very often hot headed and always brutally straightforward, Nanami impressed the younger Foreign Minister Franshaw enough to be appointed. This morning, she was waking up for her morning run when one of her live in staff approached her, phone in hand:

"Ambassador Kondo, the night shift at the embassy received a request for you to come in as soon as possible."

"Is there something going on?"

"Not sure, but the UIS Foreign Office requested your presence."

Ambassador Nanami Kondo sighed, and reached for her work phone instead of running shoes. Yep, it had a missed call during the night. It seemed that she had been getting comfortable in this position, a behavior she would want to correct soon.

"Fine. Give me a half hour to get ready, contact the Naval Station, make sure we're not under invasion or something."

"Yes Ambassador."

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

40 minutes later, Embassy Isle

Ambassador Nanami Kondo exited the jeep and walked towards the Embassy complex, still on the phone will her military attache, getting second hand information from the Naval Station. The storm had been the priority event, with various people being rescued and brought to the Naval Station for processing. Normally a busy day in and of itself: ensuring that communications with various governments could be established, trying to get people home who probably lost everything at sea, trying to establish identities for those who did. She would have that briefing soon. For she guessed it was probably the Stevidian crew rescued by the UIS that she was going to be needed for.

The PUF had an embassy for both The Holy Empire and the UIS in Mokastana City, literally only a few blocks from each other in the Embassy District. If the two governments were to talk, Mokastana City would probably be one of the better locations. It was that or their offices in Goldencaster, Wellovia. Goldencaster was much closer, and the Wellovian government had some autonomy in Federal matters, but Nanami wondered if the foreign offices Stevid and AHSCA opened in Goldencaster would be sufficient for this event. Realistically, Mokastana City would want to host the discussion, as the Federal President would be close by, and they could ceremony the hell out of it.

Once in her office, she went right away to contacting her contact in the UIS Foreign Office, letting them know she was available to speak with as soon as they wished.

It was going to be a tough day to have skipped the morning run...

by **Stevid** » Thu Mar 25, 2021 3:16 am

Imperial Foreign Office – The Citadel - Stevid Capita

Inquisitor Katherine Ariellia made her way down what could only be described as the main vaulted ‘nave’ of the foreign office. These were not uncommon in Stevidian architecture and could even be found within naval capital ships – they impressed power. This one was different, the Inquisitor was walking on what was essentially a platform or bridge that flowed over a small chasm below which delved few stories deeper with other criss-crossing walkways that interconnected government offices within the building and even the rest of the Citadel complex. The walkway on which she walked was wide enough for three articulated trucks to drive along side-by-side; and where the aisles would be in a cathedral was the tumbling abyss. Katherine liked it but was familiar with it all. The great columns with chiselled murals, the towering statues of saints almost as tall as the ceilings, huge windows of stained glass – equally as tall, and the giant chandeliers suspended by nearly a hundred metres of golden chain, none of it compared to her own citadel of abode where the Lords of the Inquisition sat – The Palatinum Justitia, or Palace of Justice. To say that Ariellia was ‘only’ an inquisitor would have been a disservice. She was a highflyer and dogmatic, and a true rising star in an Inquisition that was seemly overrepresented with women. She had been summoned to the foreign office by Sir Ruixus himself, and the fact it was a summoning irked her greatly. The Inquisition were practically above the law in many respects and so to be ordered about by a politician, no matter how devout, was an insult to her. Regardless, she was still here and dressed formally as expected, with heeled boots, leather trousers, double-breasted tunic, a long leather and hooded overcoat, and large ornamental golden chain with the stylised ‘I’ of her office dangling from the bottom.

Sir Ruixus’ office sat at the end of this vaulted ‘corridor’ and up a set of stairs that lifted one up onto a sort of plinth before being face with the grand office entrance as wide as the bridge. Massive Stevidian flags hung either side of the opening, a red carpet through the middle of the entrance that was headed by a golden dragon on the right side, a hissing serpent on the left, and between them a marble statue of a robed woman holding a sword and shield – Stevidia. Yet even above that was a massive and ornate crucifix. You couldn’t move for crucifixes in Stevid, typically; or the blending of Christianity and nationalism.

Ariellia passed through the cavernous opening unchecked by security into a much more reserved and brightly lit corridor. It was more official here, almost like a hotel foyer, with civil servants busy bustling about. She made her way to the end of the red carpet to a double oak door. This led to Sir Ruixus’ waiting area and secretary offices, which she marched through while ignoring protestations from said secretaries. Guards at the door to Sir Ruixus’ office moved at first then stopped upon seeing the ‘I’ of the inquisition. Ariellia burst into a huge room of ruby carpet, mahogany walls and furniture, drinks cabinets and numerous large paintings on the walls. Atop yet another raised platform was Sir Ruixus’ desk and behind that a huge window that looked out onto the capital with an adjoining balcony. Sir Ruixus rose suddenly in surprise and his guest turned to see what was going on.

“I am not some dog to be whistled for, Foreign Secretary!” Ariellia said angrily slamming the heavy office doors behind her.

“Ah! His Will, Ariellia. May I introduce the Morridane ambassador. We were just in the middle of discussing the coup in Commonwealth. A trifle important subject, wouldn’t you agree?” He replied sarcastically to the Inquisitor. The ambassador looked perplexed.

“By His Will…You will address me as ‘Inquisitor’, and you will have my audience now.”

Sir Ruixus sighed heavily and looked apologetically at the ambassador. “I’m terribly sorry. Perhaps we could continue this at a later date? In God’s grace.”

The ambassador waved the apology away, smiled, shook Sir Ruixus’ hand a promptly left. Sir Ruixus turned to Ariellia. If he was seething beneath that outwardly warm exterior, then it did not show. He beckoned the Inquisitor to sit, to which she did.

“Drink?” He said pouring himself a glass of port from a decanter.

“No.”

“Here’s one anyway. It’s polite.”

“As you wish.” She said without taking her glass.

“‘Inquisitor’, you say?” Ruixus said reclining while sipping his drink. “Seems I’ve fallen foul of inquisitorial politicking. I thought I would be worth, at best, a Lord Inquisitor.”

“You forget yourself, Sir Ruixus.”

“This is delicate matter, Inquisitor. This little drama with United Isles requires nowse, and a gentle diplomatic hand – not the heavy handedness of an up-and-coming civil magistrate that likes dealing out equally heavy-handed sentences…”

“They’re a collection of tiny islands in regional south-east. What sort of delicacy do you require? Besides, the delicate diplomacy is your bag. My job is far similar and straightforward.”

“I haven’t told you your role yet.” Sir Ruixus said sharply.

“You do not command me!” The Inquisitor retorted just sharply.

“But I do command authority; and you, my dear…”

“’Dear’ me again and I’ll break jaw…” Ariellia said menacingly as she stood from her chair, but Sir Ruixus continued as if she had not said a word.

“…will find that fledging career towards ‘Lord Inquisitor’ and a seat as a magistrate in a cushy Holy Office Court come grinding to a halt. I have more friends in the Palatium Justitia than you do.” He paused and adopted a friendlier tone. “I apologise. Please sit down and have your drink.”

Ariellia sat as if knowing she had somewhat overstepped. She could talk down to practically anyone like that, but this politician was de facto in charge of the running of the entire Holy Empire. He could probably have her killed if he wished and there would be little assistance from her office – dead inquisitors were becoming more and more common nowadays.

“We may have takers for the neutral ground meeting with representatives of the United Isle States. That said, I’m not sure who their representative is going to be – I’ve heard the name Tendo, and even Princess Gisella Villa mentioned. The situation is complicated, and I need cool heads and delicate hands, Inquisitor.”

“My role,” Ariellia started after finally sipping some port, “Is to ensure the sanctity and longevity of the Holy Empire in the face of adversity.”

“What on earth does that mean? Look, Inquisitor, that fact you must come along in the first instance is problematic given all that happened on the islands ten years ago. The presence of the church does little cool relations. And 'NO Templars' goes without saying.”

“We are not meeting representatives of AHSCA to cool relations. We are meeting them to navigate out of this diplomatic minefield, a minefield that is essentially your design, and get our people home, preserve the status quo, and continue ignoring those self-impoverished heathens.”

“Is that what you mean by ensuring the sanctity and longevity of the Holy Empire in the face of adversity?”

Ariellia ignored him. “Well if you don’t yet know who you’re actually going to be talking to, do you at least know where any discussions will take place?”

“No” Sir Ruixus said bluntly that drew a scoff of disgust from Ariellia. “But we do have options. One recent one, and it is the one I most prefer, is Mokastana. Given the ship came from Wellovia, it might be beneficial to proceedings if the PUF is kept closely informed of events. Wellovian stamps are on the crews’ passports; finding some way for the crew to return to the PUF makes things more straightforward… it’s the unlawful landing in AHSCA that’s the problem.”

Ariellia look visibly perplexed at the unnecessary complication of it all – as if there was really no problem. She did not follow up this silent protestation, Sir Ruixus was better at law then she was, but instead focused on Mokastana. “The Mokans may be the logical choice but are they the right choice? It’s no secret to the Holy Office that the National Crime Bureau and the Capita Constabulary’s major crime unit have been investigating certain…’irregularities’… from the Great Dienstadii War.”

“Speculation on the PUF’s actions in the last regional war is not enough to snub them diplomatically.” Ruixus countered.

“It’s not speculation if it’s true. I know you believe it is. You’ve seen the investigation file updates – the evidence is very strong.”

“Now is not the time, Inquisitor. And when the time comes for me to meet Mokan and AHCSAian individuals face-to-face it still won’t be the time.”

“They’re biased anyway!” Ariellia continued. “That independence war was fought by several nations of which some now actually form part of PUF. Aqua Anu springs to mind; then there’s the amalgamation of Kurona and Kanami, a nation also falling into ruin. Then there’s AHSCA itself, perpetually caught in the competing orbits of both Lamoni and Mokastana that essentially makes it nothing but a puppet state.”

“And yet the Empire endures.” Ruixus said slowly. “The Holy Empire fought that war and won it well. Just because the occupation of the islands was diplomatically, and arguably militarily, untenable does not mean our initial efforts were not successful. Militias in AHSCA and three nation-states, this Empire saw them off. And as you say, look at those adversaries now. The last one standing is AHSCA. The rest have fallen, and so will they in time – it all depends on whether Lamoni or Mokastana come to the rescue. The important thing to remember is that should the United Isle States fall it will not be at the hands of the Holy Empire. So… to your protestations of PUF bias, I do not care. Let them fawn over the AHSCA all they want. My concern is the integrity of Stevidian law and the return our people.”

“And the sanctity of both.” Ariellia added.

“Then we are in agreement.” Ruixus said smiling while raising his glass of port in a toast. “I’ll inform the Mokans of our intent to use them as an official…mediator? No, no… intermediary location. They’ll enjoy the pomp and circumstance - as will I!”

Ariellia could only roll her eyes.

by **AHSCA** » Sat Mar 27, 2021 12:22 pm

Official Communique to The Democratic Republic of Cartoonia

Addressed to the Honorable Mr. Jellal Fernandes and The Honorable Raphtalia Iwatani

SENSITIVE INFORMATION

Thank you for your recent communique to us. The details of this recent development between AHSCA and her former foe are indeed a sensitive one and will need to be handled delicately. Rest assured AHSCA at present doesn't feel a need for any increased military readiness and will expect in time this situation will go over smoothly. We are awaiting further communications from our other close allies to better get in touch with the Holy Empire and her Ministers to arrange the pickup and safe departure of her wayward sailors.

In regards to our Foreign Officer, Madam Noir VinoCacao's recent visit to Cartoonia, we apologize if this is causing any issues. Officer VinoCacao has gone to Cartoonia on her own leisure and had hoped to not cause a fuss that might tie up resources of the national and local governments of Cartoonia. We apologize again if her unannounced visit to Cartoonia and this recent development is going to cause issues with you.

Until further notice, please continue to be in touch with your Ambassador stationed at our Embassy Isle and we shall continue to be in touch with our own in Cartoonia. Thank you for reaching out to us.

Roshin Tendo
Deputy Foreign Officer
United Island States of AHSCA

Foreign Office - Office of Noir VinoCacao

Whenever Noir was away, Roshin was allowed to use her office at her pleasure. Typically, she only went in to retrieve something needed or if something very sensitive needed to be sent out to any one of AHSCA's ambassadors or other nation's ambassadors. Today was a day for sure to keep things quiet. This much flurry of activity around the office was already drawing attention from all members of the Press, from AHSCA's own State Media to the privately ran and operated presses around the islands. "Deputy can you inform us the sudden uptick in activity?"

"What about the unexpected visit from Ambassadors?"

"Can you confirm the rumor that Officer VinoCacao has been relieved of duty?"

The one thing Roshin did say on this matter, "Officer VinoCacao remains head of this office, with her current trip overseas that leaves me in charge." She closed the door behind her.

"Deputy, The Mokan Ambassador has arrived."

"Good please show her up."

It was a few minutes but at least, Ambassador Nanami Kondo arrived. "Good morning, Ambassador. I trust you know who I am?" Roshin felt most knew she was the Deputy Foreign Officer. "I apologize for the abrupt calling you here but we have a situation. Late last night a merchant ship out of Stevid was caught in a particularly violent storm at sea. The ship ran aground oooh some 30 kilometers off of Animalpolis. We rescued the crew, all are safe and in good health, having been checked by the Medical Officer on the carrier, HMS Nanao which is now sitting off shore awaiting orders. As we have no direct communications with Stevid, that means we're going to have to rely on you and Lamoni to do the talking for us. On top of that, Her Highness the Duchess is currently out of the country, as is my boss, Officer VinoCacao so that means I'll be handling things until further notice. Princess Villa has been informed and by now I'm certain our two heads of Congress have been informed. First thing is first, I need to know what to do with the men. The Nanao is due for dry docking for her routine maintenance and the crew are all schedule for their leave. Believe it or not, we don't really have a protocol for this. Generally Stevidan ships have largely kept their distance from our area of responsibility so what it was doing so close, I don't know, we can probably chalk it up to the weather conditions.

Now given these are civilian mariners, not active military, I'm certain I can reasonably get them off the Nanao for a few days. As no AHSCA civilian ships go to Stevid, I'd say getting them a direct ride home is out of the question, the other option remains to transport them to you or to Lamoni and let Stevid pick them up. The alternative is to lodge them on the islands until this is situated. The ship on the other hand, will be up to whomever owns her."

The phone on the desk rang. "Sorry, pardon me." Roshin picked it up. "Yes?" She listend to the other line and quickly responded with a "Why?" Sighing and rubbing her temple with her fingers she again replied with "Fine, tell him to come in."

In entered AHSCA's Defense Officer, Kurago as he slammed the door behind him, "Deputy Tendo, getting a bit big for your kimono?"

"I believe the saying is, big for your britches"

"Don't be cute. You're taking control, last I checked Stevid is an adversary that makes this whole thing a military matter, that means this falls on me."

"Officer, we have a visitor you know." Roshin gestured at the poor Ambassador having to watch this squabble unfold. "And former. We've been under armistice for the last 20 years."

"That is not peace."

"It's good enough for everyone else. It's also a civilian maritime ship, crewed by civilian sailors, carrying civilian goods." Well that seemed likely but actually, neither really knew what the contents of its cargo were. "That makes this a diplomatic matter, that falls on us at the Foreign Office. With Noir out of the country that falls on me, her Deputy to handle. And before you throw they're on a military ship, remember we don't have a civil maritime patrol or aviation, everything is by the military or Unified Police. Ambassador you know Defense Officer Kurago, Navy Ensign, Corona native, veteran. Sit down." she demanded of him.

by **Mokastana** » Fri Apr 02, 2021 11:19 am

PUF Foreign Ministry
Mokastana City,
People's Republic of the Islands
People's Unified Federation

With Elizabeth Franshaw out of the country, the leadership of the Foreign Ministry fell to the Senior Diplomatic Council, a relatively new and informal Council of Deputy Ministers from across the Federation. The Deputy Minister for Mokastana was the de facto chair, but the job was mostly doing the daily maintenance that kept the Ministry operating. Even in Elizabeth's absence, the Council had limited power, for any serious decisions involving foreign governments had to be sent to the President of the Federation. When the request for meditation came from the Stevidian embassy, the Senior Diplomatic Council met to formally vote to send the message directly to the President.

"Good morning everyone," the Deputy Minister from Mokastana began, "we have all seen the message from Sir Ruixus, Foriegn Minister of Stevid, asking to mediate the negotiations between The Holy Empire and the UIS. Obviously, as this comes from their Foreign Minister directly, it should go to Senora Franshaw-Serain. Since she is out of the country, I propose we send it to the Office of the President of the Federation."

Both delegates from Aqua Anu and Wellovia agreed with a vote in favor. Although the Anuien delegate might have internally disdained the Stevidian government, to intentionally sabotage international relations was akin to treason, plus the others wouldn't go for it. The newest delegate, from Motokata, also voted in favor, but wondered why this formality was even required.

Shortly afterwards, the message was forwarded to the President's office, and a response was drafted to be delivered to the Stevidian Embassy.

TO: Sir Ruixus, Foriegn Minister of Stevid
FROM: Ben Rodriguez, President of the Federation, People's Unified Federation

Due to the sensitivity and significance of this situation, I felt it appropriate to ensure that all necessary resources the Federation can provide are made available to you. As we have embassies for both the Holy Empire and United Island States in our capital city, I would gladly host any and all diplomats to a meeting here in the Presidential Palace. The Federation will be a safe and neutral ground to discuss the best way to bring these sailors home.

Foreign Office - Office of Noir VinoCacao
AHSCA

Ambassador Nanami Kondo walked passed the reporters with a determined dismissal only years of military experience and diplomatic subterfuge could grant. They would be told what they needed to know in time, from people who cared to tell them. Nanami was not one of those people. No doubt they were already gossiping about her presence the moment the doors closed behind her as she was escorted to the office of Noir VinoCacao.

Upon entering, she was instead greeted by the Deputy Foreign Minister: "Good morning, Ambassador. I trust you know who I am?"

"Of course. It is a pleasure to finally meet you in person. I trust the Foreign Minister is enjoying her trip overseas."

Although Nanami's words were friendly, her voice still carried the air of a military leader merely uttering the words expected of her, while planning things out in her head. Still, Nanami listened patiently, sitting upright in a provided chair, collecting the details she had not been aware of. Before Nanami could have a turn to speak the phone rang and the UIS's Defense Officer, Kurago, entered and started to make a scene unbecoming of senior military staff.

She watched the two bicker for a bit, before she finally got a chance to speak:

"If I may… Defense Officer Kurago, I've seen the AHSCA military evolve from small time warlords squabbling over these islands, to the fighting force it is today. Even now, you cannot hope to defeat the Stevid military alone. It's not an insult, just a fact of technology and numbers.

Luckily for you, the People's Unified Federation controls or influences every sea route between them and you. If we don't then the Lamonians certainly do. I cannot speak on their behalf, but the PUF would gladly, and without question, come to your aid, just like some of us did in the War of Unification, myself included. If this situation ends up in conflict, it will be Mokan, Anuien and likely Lamonian blood spilled first to protect these Islands. As your first line of defense, I would appreciate a chance at diplomacy first."

Nanami was harsh, but she was the voice of the Federation here. If the AHSCA military treated these civilians as hostile, then there would be problems for the Federation. Not only military bases going on high alert, but the nearly 12 million Stevidian South Greal refugees who had made a new life in the Federation would have "conflicted" loyalties, and probably treated as such.

"As for the rescued men, Deputy Foreign Minister, there is the Federation's Naval Station on Aurora. It has been our main hub of rescue operations for years now. It has a customs office, a foreign ministry office to issue temporary visas, for those who lost everything at sea, and a barracks for rescued people awaiting processing.

However, as the Defense Officer Kurago pointed out, these individuals are from a nation considered adversarial to AHSCA, and handing them over to the Federation, no questions asked, may have unintended consequences."

by **Stevid** » Mon Apr 19, 2021 4:02 am

Imperial Ministry of Defence
Citadel, Stevid Capita

Working lunches are fine experiences in Stevidian politics, and a typical way of conducting business without the annoyance of minutes being taken. Set in grand staterooms, there was usually alcohol, fine meats, and several courses. There were seldom backhander deals but there was politicking without the overseeing eyes of other departments and civil servants. It was, in essence, corruption in government at one of its lowest tiers but it did allow to progress the more menial decision-making in a more ‘matter of fact’ and relaxed manner. AHSCA was almost always discussed in such environments within the Lowland political quarter; on the one hand because for a very long time the islands were not recognised as a country and so not strictly government business, and on the other there was so little policy on AHSCA once they were recognised and with no determination to mend relations that most decisions had to be made over food and wine. Larger incident discussions were normally chaired at committees and minuted, like this tanker episode, but the finer deliberations and ‘what if’ scenarios were almost done over a few glasses of wine and a few plates of food.

At this particular lunch were some heavy hitters in government, Sir Ruixus of the foreign office, Sir Paulus Epidius Furius the chief of defence staff, Harry Vepgenus the long serving imperial minister of defence, and head of the civil service Sir Archibald ‘Archie’ Machin, together with a handful of other junior ministers from the foreign office and ministry of defence. The meal was cider braised pork belly over celery with an apple and mustard mash potato paired with a 2013 Ard-Mhéara Mionlach claret from Rubet island, but the topic of discussion at the meeting was the defence implications regarding AHSCA. It was a delicate matter and there was no formal policy on it, and it was something that politicians and the Empire generally left well alone. But the fact that there was to be future face-to-face meetings with representatives of the United Isles and nations closely aligned to them meant that some precautions would have to be quietly acknowledged and documented, but not outwardly mentioned.

“Is this not a fine time to show our best?” Asked Sir Paulus. “That country is not quite the tinpot islands of rowing boats, fishermen, and militia they used to be. They have equipment these days, including the flattop that took our people aboard. One cannot allow the Empire to be upstaged.”

“Is it a case of being upstaged?” Retorted Sir Ruixus.

“Of course! A UIS carrier… a “carrier”… picked up those people and now we liaise with the Mokans to get them back. Those people fund the development of UIS defence forces, together with the Free Republic. Their equipment is good, their training adequate. To turn up without something that takes them down a peg is losing face.”

“That’s how you see it. Not I.” Said Ruixus. “This is not a case of ‘We’re better than you and we know it’. They know that already. The Mokans know that. The Lamonians know that. All three states know the Empire could take those islands tomorrow, and they are naïve if they think otherwise. Holding them would be another matter entirely and not something any of us here should entertain… unless drunk!”

There were chuckles around the table and then the defence minister interjected. “I concur. Fabulous as it would be to steam a super dreadnought into a Mokan harbour, it would damage our reputation and standing in the region. There’s no need for grandiose acts. We’ve nothing to prove. Arguably a more nuanced and muted approach works both ways. On one hand, we are the measured Empire of faith and dignity, on the other is that the UIS is that beneath us and we turn up with muted fanfare.”

“Vepgenus is right.” Said Sir Archie. “The Prime Minister wants this out of the way. It’s why the Foreign Office is taking centre stage here and the MoD is just in the loop. There are, as far as the PM is concerned, zero defence concerns.”

“I beg to differ!” Said Sir Paulus shaking his head. “Imperial representation is scant in the regional south-east…”

“Bar North Hanover…” Interrupted Sir Ruixus after sipping some claret.

“…bar Hanover, yes, but that is more a back water territory than any other holding we have. It’s hardly a base of operations and it is simply too far from AHSCA to be given any real responsibility in its current form to represent our interests in the south east.”

“I would not besmirch the North Hanover Island Chain Dependency too quickly, Sir Paulus.” Sir Ruixus stated flatly. “Much blood was spilled in the first war, and then again when AHSCA first formed and it’s allies tried a counter offensive. But I’m unwilling to entertain the idea of increasing the armament of the North Hanover island with the pretext of this shipping accident. It will get the United Isles anxious and the Mokans excited.”

“AHSCA is a vassal state in all but name to either the Mokans or the Lamonians.” Vepgenus quipped.

“Better let them argue over the scraps when it falls away to history. It is little to do with us. The Mokans will want to make a song and dance of the event with music, food, pomp – I say we let them and enjoy it too! Then we can all go back to getting on with our lives.” Said Sir Archie.

“We cannot forget the true purpose of all of this.” Sir Ruixus said. “The return of our countrymen. However, there will be little or no military involvement. A military transport plane, or even state aircraft, will ferry me and delegates to Mokan territory and talks will be begin on how best to get our people out of there in line with Stevidian law. We do not need fighter jets, battleships, or honour guard. We need politicians and diplomats.”

The was a murmur of agreement from everyone, minus Sir Paulus, who raised his voice one last time. “And should your plane be attacked?”

Sir Ruixus replied nonchalantly, “Then clearly it would be an act of callous murder by a reactionary group in AHSCA or by one of their puppet masters with machinations and misgivings against this Holy Empire. Countering them was one of the old reasons we intervened in the conflict on those islands all those years ago. ‘Deleting’ islands would be the only real option open to the Empire.”

Sir Paulus did not reply, partly because his question had been answered and partly because he was not sure if the Foreign Secretary was being serious. “But it will not come to that. If you are that concerned, Sir Paulus, I’m sure you can lobby Vepgenus on the necessity to deploy a communications vessel.”

“I will… and am. One of the new Defilers.” Sir Paulus said snapping his head round to the Defence Secretary.

“Done.” Came a barely concerned reply from behind a mouthful of food.

“So long as it transits through the open waters of Oceanum Infernales only. I do not want to give anyone an excuse to do anything. I’ll inform the Mokans that we have chosen them to host any meetings. Thank them as per procedure and get ready to leave within the week.” Sir Ruixus finished.

by **AHSCA** » Fri Apr 23, 2021 12:53 pm

The heated argument quickly died down. Kurago might be a bit high strung but he also knew when to be quiet and he took Roshin's orders to sit. The Mokan ambassador spoke up, she had plenty good points, AHSCA as well off as they were know could not go toe to toe with the mighty Stevidan Empire. At best they might be able to hold them at bay while, to allow their allies to reinforce them but no way could they take them on alone. Roshin sighed a little "I understand, this is probably more complicated than it needs to be, that's the issue. With our nations not holding formal relations we have to go through one of you to get them out. None of our civilan martime ships will go to Stevid and certainly we couldn't send a military vessel, even unarmed. And given we did evac them to a military vessel, we really hate to show that this is any kind of act of aggression. And there's the matter of the ship, she was sailing with a Stevidan flag."

The Ambassador seemed to have a simple solution, take them into the Mokan Station on Aurora Island and process them there. "I certainly have no issue with that, if you are able and have room, we can have them flown right to you from the Carrier Nanao."

"Defense Officer Kurago, any further thoughts?"

"Deputy I believe the Mokan Ambassador is on the right track about this." He certainly knew how to swallow his pride when it mattered. Roshin didn't take it personally, Kurago fought in the war as a young teen, of course the idea of Stevid being here would be rather unsettling. "I think we can get them flown right to the Mokan Naval Station on Aurora if possible. From here it's just a waiting game."

"Failing that, I'm certain I can have lodging arranged here. We'll get this sorted and finished with soon enough I imagine."

by **Mokastana** » Tue Apr 27, 2021 7:45 am

Foreign Office - Office of Noir VinoCacao
AHSCA

"I certainly have no issue with that, if you are able and have room, we can have them flown right to you from the Carrier Nanao."

Ambassador Nanami Kondo nodded in agreement. She let the conversation calm down before giving her response.

"Given the situation, I'll make sure we have room at the Naval Station. The local Ministry Office should be able to get their information to verify their IDs with the Holy Empire, as well as run them against any criminal databases we have access to."

She hoped none of them were flagged as a criminal, much less in a non Stevidian database. Still, it was standard procedure, even when nothing here was actually standard.

"A direct flight from The Nanao should be fine. I'll contact the Naval Station as soon as we're done to make arrangements."

Some time later...
Office of the Foreign Ministry
Aurora Naval Station

Aurora Naval Station was basically half military base, half airport, with civilian passenger planes taxiing down the runway past fighter jets and transport planes. The single terminal could barely handle a handful of civilian flights at a time, but it was, essentially, the only airport on the island available to tourists. Once inside the terminal, visitors would be greeted by a small selection of restaurants, such as MotoPizza or Cute Bunny Burger, as well as the typical Mokan coffee shops and a gift shop that specializes in overpriced mass produced "island culture" trinkets.

Notices in a variety of languages, including Dienstani, Stevid, Mokan, Anuien and Esperanto, would inform visitors they were still technically on a PUF Military base, and to remain in the civilian approved areas at all times, less they face arrest by military police.

For the tourist, they could easily enjoy their flight in, admire the jets on the tarmac, exit the plane and stop for a coffee, before taking the underground railway to the Eastern Civilian base entrance, where local taxi companies had carts and transports to take them further inland for their vacation.

For those rescued at sea, the trip was a little different.

Oftentimes, they would be flown in by military helicopter from one of the Federal helicopter carriers that patrolled the shipping lanes, or be brought in by smaller boat. Once on land, they would be escorted by military personnel to the civilian terminal where the Office of Foreign Ministry was located. Once there, the small Ministry office would make sure they were comfortable, get their info, and start the ball rolling on getting them a flight back home, or at least to a bigger airport. Of course, waiting on confirmation from the home countries took time, as did waiting on open flights. Days even. Which was why a small barracks was located in the civilian terminal. It wasn't luxurious by any means, but it was free.

It was the latter series of events that the Stevidian crew was about to experience. From the moment the UIS helicopter landed, two PPMVs (Pseudonaja Protected Mobility Vehicle) and a group of military police were on the ground ready to take custody of them. Luckily Stevidian English was one of the major languages of the PUF(Wellovia) and such the NCO would have no trouble speaking with the crew. Once the helicopter had powered down and the crew allowed to exit the NCO spoke:

"Welcome to Aurora Naval Station, I am Major Otto Lawrence, commander of the Military Police in the civilian terminal. Figured with all the noise you all have been making, I should come down and greet you myself. We're here to escort you to the Foreign Ministry Office to get you set up for a flight back home. Hop in the back of a PPMV and we'll get rolling."

The military police wore the traditional jungle fatigues of the Federal infantry, with their rank insignia on the shoulders, and just below those, bright blue arm bands marked "PM". Covering their heads were well starched boonie hats, with the insignia of a black shield and red star in the center.

The major was friendly enough, informing the crew that the Foreign Ministry office will collect their information and forward their details to the Holy Empire to verify their identities. He wasn't sure on the exact process to get them home, but they will have a chance to eat, drink and shower while the politicians and paperwork get sorted out.

"Sometimes the hardest part is getting the home county to respond to us in a timely manner, sometimes the hard part is booking a civilian flight home. With you guys, I imagine the UIS and Holy Empire will be forced to speak with each other. Maybe we can watch the diplomacy live on the news while waiting on getting you home."

Once the PPMVs arrived at the civilian terminal, the Military police escorted them into the airport. Here the crew could see civilians going to and from their flights, ordering food, and shopping. The smell of pizza and burgers hung in the air as they passed the restaurants.

Eventually they made their way to a bland office and were escorted in. Coffee, water, and sweet bread were offered, but soon they were sat down and given the normal 20 questions given to rescued persons:

"Welcome, I'm Greg Bo, just here to start your processing paperwork. I just need to ask you a lot of annoying questions. I assume you all speak Stevidian English, right? Ok cool, in that case let's get started, name?"

"Thank you, here are your temporary identification documents, they will mark you as a rescued person without papers. Please keep these with you at all times. Inside the packet we have also induced four food vouchers you can use at the local restaurants, they let you order up to 20 Trabajoros worth of food and drink.

Given the situation, we have reserved beds for you in the rescued barracks. It's two beds a room, and here is your bed assignment.

You are allowed to wander the open areas of the civilian terminal and the garden. Be mindful of security signs posted, for leaving the civilian area without permission may result in detainment and confinement by military police.

Any questions?"

by **Mokastana** » Thu May 06, 2021 6:58 am

Presidential Palace
Mokastana City
People's Republic of the Islands
People's Unified Federation

The meeting between the diplomats of the United Island States and the Holy Empire would occur in the Nicolas Villa Meeting Room of the Presidential Palace. The diplomats would be escorted to the Presidential Palace by The Grupo de Defensa de la Embajada(Embassy Defense Group) in limos and SUVs. Press and media would have their best chance at pictures at the airport, where they would be corralled off at a distance for pictures.
Once the convoys were off, nothing else would make it to public news without explicit approval of all parties.

For diplomats coming from the Embassy District, the two meter walls around the district and GDE checkpoints would keep the press out. Any who snuck in would risk arrest under possible espionage charges, but that was not a major concern right now.

Soon the diplomats would arrive at the western gate of the Presidential Palace, which was also surrounded by a stone wall. Out of respect, the honor guards at the entrance saluted the convoys as they arrived, while others opened the doors and staff pointed them to their respective prep rooms.

The white stone exterior of the presidential palace shined brightly under the Mokan tropical sun. Originally built after the founding of the Mokan Confederacy, the Palace had witnessed plenty of domestic strife during its time as the home of the Executive. In the stone pillars and walls of the west side entrance, the diplomats might notice the bullet holes preserved in the walls, a reminder of the fragility of government.

Inside the Nicolas Villa Room, flags of both the Holy Empire and the United Island States had been positioned on opposite sides of the meeting table made of Mokan Redwood, clearly lined up for photographs. A green carpet covered the floor and the walls were a pale shade of blue, with white highlights and lace designs. Windows allowed the sun's natural light to fill the room, while the one way bullet resistant glass kept the outside from looking in.

Once the details had been agreed upon, then a single government photographer would be allowed to record any signing, and then the PUF would release whatever details the parties agreed to.

Standing in the room, President Ben Rodriguez waited for the diplomats to be ready to enter:

"Welcome to Mokastana, thank you for coming. I believe this meeting will be quick and easy. After all, mother nature cares not for our human concerns. We are all here to preserve human life in the face of danger, and make sure those lives make it home.

As this is a meeting between the United Island States and the Holy Empire, we will allow you both to discuss your points, and only offer to assist in bringing about a successful resolution. As you are aware, the sailors are currently under our care, and we hope to send them home soon."

by **Stevid** » Fri May 07, 2021 9:19 am

Targus and his crew had been treated well, albeit with a standoffish coldness, by the natives on the Nanao. He, and the rest of them generally, appreciated it all the same. Targus knew little of islands beyond where they were on a map and from historical dramas or documentaries on television or video websites. To be on a ship surrounded by people his country saw as… adversarial… made him uneasy, if only because of the political fallout. Between arriving on the flattop and being whisked away to some airport on the mainland he had gotten a tentative handle on how things were progressing. Slowly and complicated it seemed. The news of his wrecked ship was not big news in AHSCA and only one news piece had made the headlines. For all he knew it was a big deal and the news of Targus and his men were being supressed. As for what was happening at home he had no idea, save his eavesdropping on a casual remarks from nearby crew members of the Nanao.
In truth their operational and personal security was good, Targus had only managed to deduce that returning directly to Stevid from AHSCA would be problematic and that being in AHSCA in the first place was ‘technically’ unlawful by writ of Stevidian law because their ship was bound from Wellovia with no indirect permission to land in the United Island States. Beyond this he knew nothing.

The move to the airport from the carrier did not come as a surprise to any. They could not remain onboard an active warship indefinitely, plus she was due for drydock fitting. What was a surprise was a medium lift helicopter flagged by the People’s Unified Federation would ferry them to the airport. The extent of Mokastana’s involvement in AHSCA was not really known by Targus, though if it was then his mayday to the United Island States would have been deliberately sent to the PUF naval station and not a generic distress call. Alas…

Targus liked the Mokans. An amicable people; friendly, liked to drink… and smoke. Having set off originally from Wellovia, he was only too aware and accustomed to Mokan officials and how they conducted themselves. So although Targus and the crew were surprised at the involvement of the PUF, it was a welcome one as Mokans were a people they dealt with frequently and almost always on good terms.

When the helicopter landed at Aurora Naval Station he crew were sent into a nearby military barracks – Mokan – as the flag of the PUF betrayed. It then became apparent to Targus that this was the first time he had set foot on terra firma since the Crown Conveyer ran aground. The barracks was situated in the airport terminal, the building itself shared with civilian staff, and it was clear that they were in and around the departure’s concourse. When interviewed by the Mokan officer, Targus and the crew were dutiful and polite as necessary, and had no questions – at least none that could be answered. They only question they all had on their minds was “When can we go home?”

Presidential Palace
Mokastana City
People's Republic of the Islands
People's Unified Federation

A sleek and fast private jet screeched down the runway. It gleamed silver and sported blue, white, and red Stevidian iconography as its tail livery. The plane was unescorted throughout the flight and remained so to landing. A show of force was unnecessary. ‘Dick waving’ was unnecessary. Whatever political games were being played behind the scenes were inconsequential to the image that Stevid was trying to project: That this matter was a complicated inconvenience. However, to Sir Ruixus on board who would be leading the Stevidian delegation, the whole thing was exciting political and legal theatre. In truth, this nonsense was partly by his design. There was no embassy in the UIS, no formal ties, no agreements; there had been no official recognition either until a view years ago, and he had been in silent protest to even that. Regardless, he was in Mokastana now and he would be meeting an AHSCA islander for the first time in nearly twenty years. It was an occasion with a huge amount of political gravitas to both the UIS and Holy Empire, if not the PUF. However, if this sort of thing was beneath the rulers of Mokastana they did not show it. They were greeted on the tarmac in glorious weather, much unlike Stevid, by Sir Ruixus’ opposite number in the PUF and a small welcoming party. There were smiles, handshakes, and camera waving before everyone was whisked away to the Presidential Palace. So far, this charade seemed like a formality.

The approach to the palace via the western gate was an experience Sir Ruixus had had only a handful of times, but he enjoyed it all the same – every time. He was exceptionally well travelled, even for an Imperial Foreign Secretary, but Mokastana was up there as one of his favourite working destinations. If only for the history and culture and not the cigars. But the cigars were a close second. But the Stevidian delegation’s arrival at the palace marked the point where Stevid’s first (and only) request for the day was to take place. National anthems. The importance of which, and which order the Empire’s two musical pieces came, had been made very clear by the Imperial Foreign Office.

As the delegation stepped out, a band played the Stevidian national anthem. To this, the Stevidian delegation continued to move about with the Mokan escorts, chit-chatting, gathering their things, bags, and documents. But at the second anthem - the Imperial Anthem – for the Holy Empire as a whole, there was complete and utter deference in typical Stevidian fashion. Feet were together, backs were straight, hands clasped together either front or back or were at attention, all facing the Stevidian flag and heads held high. A short rendition was played, only a minute, and then the smiles and familiarity returned all present returned. The anthem was a message – one of resoluteness, power, and longevity of the Holy Empire, and the music articulated it well to any Mokan and UIS Islander in earshot.

Once in the Nicholas Villa room, a fabulous display of Mokan culture, Sir Ruixus was met by the President himself, Ben Rodriguez. The two shook hands and exchanged the usual and customary pleasantries. Similar scenes had (or would) take place with the representatives of the UIS of AHSCA. But a point of note was that Sir Ruixus did not shake the hand of the AHSCAian official, nor did he offer, nor allow to be offered a hand and instead went straight into his own formal business. It was a snub but not a distinctly obvious one, he did acknowledge them with a polite “His Will” and “Good Morning.” But that was it. Not allowing the time to shake hands removed the awkwardness of a hand left hanging, but the lack of a handshake was a message in and of itself.

President Rodriguez started the proceedings, "Welcome to Mokastana, thank you for coming. I believe this meeting will be quick and easy. After all, mother nature cares not for our human concerns. We are all here to preserve human life in the face of danger, and make sure those lives make it home.

As this is a meeting between the United Island States and the Holy Empire, we will allow you both to discuss your points, and only offer to assist in bringing about a successful resolution. As you are aware, the sailors are currently under our care, and we hope to send them home soon."

“Thank you Mister President.” Sir Ruixus started. “Firstly, may I please thank you for hosting this event today, and for however long it goes on for – to which I hope it is as short as possible. My thanks were conveyed through the Foreign Office, but the opportunity to thank you personally and face to face is not one I wish to pass up on. It is always a pleasure to be a guest of the Mokans.
Furthermore, I wish to thank the United Island States,” This was probably the first ever ‘thank you’ a Stevidian politician had ever given to AHSCA. “Without the quick thinking and resolve of your people on the night the Crown Conveyer ran aground, I fear we would both be sat at this table but instead discussing body repatriation, rather than the finer points of border control and immigration policy.

“To that that end, not only do I express my thanks to your country on behalf of my government and Empire, but also the thanks of the families of the rescued crew. They are unfortunate victims in the political circumstances we find ourselves in today, but they are most grateful that your people rescued their loved ones. The professionalism and bravery of your people is to be commended.

“So…to business… As it stands, the predicament the Empire is in regarding these sailors is as follows:
The Empire does recognise the UIS, however direct travel to and from the UIS is banned. Indirect travel is allowed but there are caveats, as an onward journey has to be booked in the third-party country. Change over flights are not permissible. In essence, one would have to fly from Stevid to Mokastana, go through customs border control – passport and all – and officially be in Mokastana proper; only to then re-enter the airport and go through the whole process again as if traveling from Mokastana as the originating country to AHSCA with the flight booked in that third-party country. This process will be the same vice versa if travelling from AHSCA.

“Say what you will or want about that… I care little. It is merely government policy. The problem with the crew of the Crown Conveyer is that they had no permission to make landing in AHSCA. They were going direct from a PUF aligned state to an Imperial territory, thus landing in AHSCA would be unlawful. Our contention is thus, and depends on a number of factors:
“Are sailors legally in AHSCA whilst at the airport or are they deemed to have not yet crossed the border? Furthermore, when they were taken aboard the carrier Nanao, did that constitute has being within AHSCAian constitutional territory? The answers to these questions will either make my day easier or more complicated.”

by **AHSCA** » Sat May 08, 2021 11:05 am

Presidential Palace - Mokastana

Over a cup of morning tea at her residence in Mokastana, Shiori Sekine, AHSCA's Ambassador to the People's Unified Federation, reading a newspaper from home, one of several actually, about this ongoing red tape headache between AHSCA and it's old foe. In the days since their rescue many outlets including the state's own media began to report on it all varying degrees of information UNICIM's official newspaper was able to get all the facts pretty much out clear, given it was a the State's News. Others mostly were parroting that but a few were largely embellishing a few details. Today was a big day because now as Ambassador she had to meet with the Mokan delegation and Stevidan delegation to sort this. It should be simple enough, the wayward sailors were being held at the Mokan Naval Station, awaiting proper extraction. It might be for the best, lest anything happen to them on UIS Soil. It'd been a long time since the war but for some the scars still run deep, including her own.

"Well what's the verdict?" Her husband snapped her to attention "We all doomed or is this going to be over in a matter of seconds?"

"Oh," She chuckled a bit "No, I'm just reading the news from back home."

"Shi, I'm sure it's going to go fine. It's a handful of commercial sailors, not military. Frankly I'm sure any ship of ours would happily give them a ride back home for the standard fare."

"Hehe, Aki, no UIS ships can go to Stevid or vice versa, you know that."

"Hey things change."

"I don't think they're gonna change that much."

"Excuse me, madam." Their household assistant interrupted, not so much a housekeeper though she did a few of those tasks too but just all around assistant. "Your car has arrived."

"Well, I'm off."

"Good luck, knock 'em dead. Metaphorically speaking of course."

"Right right." The way there was calls back home, instructions of how to conduct herself and what to discuss and what points to bring up or avoid as needed. Chances are it would be mostly the Mokan and Stevidans doing most of the talking but it was important of her to know this stuff, this was a big if she was speaking with the Deputy Foreign Officer herself. "Right, I understand. Yes ma'am." It wasn't much longer she arrived and was escorted inside to the Villa room. Sharing the namesake with AHSCA's royal family or just a common name? Now she actually didn't know and as curious. Well no time for that now because it wasn't too long that the delegates from Stevid arrived too. As expected they were rather standoffish and not as cordial. Well whatever, it was probalby good to get down to it so the men awaiting their exit could have answers.

Stevid wrote:“....Furthermore, I wish to thank the United Island States, Without the quick thinking and resolve of your people on the night the Crown Conveyer ran aground, I fear we would both be sat at this table but instead discussing body repatriation, rather than the finer points of border control and immigration policy.

Well that was unexpected. Well she went ahead and spoke, "Sir, I feel I'm speaking on behalf of my country when saying it is our pleasure we could render aid to your mariners in a time of distress. The HMS Nanao is flying the flag of the UIS and thus is our ship of our nation. The UISDF Navy Command instituted the rescue that night so by all accounts we consider ourselves partly responsible for the safe stewardship and passage of your citizens. With the gracious permission of Mokastana here, we have given them housing at the Mokan Naval Station situated on our island of Aurora. I've been speaking with our Deputy Foreign Officer who is acting on behalf of the government on this matter. Her though is to arrange some sort of air transport from there to neutral soil, be it here, Lamoni or wherever else you all feel is needed."

by **Mokastana** » Wed May 19, 2021 11:19 am

Stevid wrote:
"......The Empire does recognise the UIS, however direct travel to and from the UIS is banned. Indirect travel is allowed but there are caveats....

“Are sailors legally in AHSCA whilst at the airport or are they deemed to have not yet crossed the border? Furthermore, when they were taken aboard the carrier Nanao, did that constitute has being within AHSCAian constitutional territory? The answers to these questions will either make my day easier or more complicated.”

Presidential Palace
Mokastana City
People's Republic of the Islands
People's Unified Federation

President Rodriguez motioned for an aide, a young Anuien lieutenant in the corner, to come over. The lieutenant handed the president a folder, and returned to the wall. Ben put on his reading glasses and opened the folder on the table, reading over a few documents before speaking out loud:

"My apologies, I wanted to make sure I was speaking correctly, before responding. Our naval station on Aurora island, simply named The Aurora Naval Station, is leased from the UIS, but all sentient beings within the Naval Station are subject to Federal Military law. This includes the civilian terminal."

Flipping through the pages, the President pulled one out and read it aloud: "From my briefing this morning…. The civilian terminal at Aurora Naval Station is, for all intents and purposes, an international airport, with flights to three nations: Aqua Anu, Wellovia and Lamoni…"

The president skimmed over the next few paragraphs before continuing: "ah… here we go…. Rescued Persons… rescued persons are taken to the civilian terminal where they are identified by interview, fingerprints, photos and any surviving documents. These are sent to the embassy of the nation claimed as residence to verify. Rescued persons are then issued temporary travel visas by the Federation. These travel visas can allow rescued persons to go through UIS customs to enter the island, and meet with their respective embassies. If an embassy is not present in the UIS, then the rescued person can be flown to Federal or Lamonian territory to contact an embassy there….."

Looking up from the document, the president took off his glasses.

"Now, I do recall that your sailors have been issued Temporary Travel Visas by the Federation, and are currently in what is considered an international airport belonging to us. If they were allowed to enter the island, which I doubt they will be, they would have to go through the UIS customs office. So they have not, legally speaking, set foot on UIS soil. If they were allowed to, then it would have been by a third party, given that we issued the documents they would use to do so.

As for the legal implications of being rescued by a UIS military vessel, I'd propose that being rescued by a ship is not the same as crossing the border. Sailors from various nations have been rescued in those waters, and most still get sent home via Aurora Naval Station, where they go through PUF customs, regardless of the navy who rescued them. I imagine if a Federal vessel rescued these sailors, they would have still ended up in Aurora Naval Station. Which we've established is governed by the Federation, and would require going through Federal customs and being issued Federal documents.

I hope that satisfies your concern about direct vs indirect travel. We're ready to send these sailors home, or at least to Lamoni or Wellovia on the next available flight."

Tempest (IC/Open)

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