SDNWorld Redux: Story Thread the First.

[Shroom Man 777]

LIVE on ShroomSatTV
The Sovereign Shroomanian Sentinel
DONE DEFENSE DEAL

(The TENTAGON, Farbanti, Shroomania)The Shroomanian Minister of Defense, Donald Rumsfool, has announced today that Shroomania's Mushroom Military has voiced its approval on PeZookia's proposed Continental Defense Plan and that the proposal was being discussed in the Parliament.



"We've given it a lot of thought," said Minister of Defense Donald Rumsfool. "And we decided that we liked it. The PeZookians have a great plan, and it certainly saves us the time and effort of having to think up our own plan ourselves. It's good, it's solid. Now it's up to the Parliament to decide on it."

The Mushroom Military has forwarded the proposal to the Parliament, which went into session earlier today.


The Shroomanian Parliament, in a heated discussion regarding the Continental Defense Plan.

After long deliberation, the majority of the Ministers of Parliament - from both the House of Lords and the House of Commons - have reached a concession regarding the proposed plan.

"After we talked about it," said MP Pitt the Younger as he readjusted his wig. "We found that it was a reasonable proposal and we find it agreeable. We commend the PeZookians for coming up with such a well thought out stratagem."

Both the Shroomanian Parliament and the Mushroom Military have agreed to the Continental Defense Plan.

[Coyote]

National Parliament, Canissia




It wasn't the official signing ceremony; that would come later, when all interested parties came together for photos, signing with official flourishes, and the like-- at that venue, there would be bands and guards in dress uniforms, and a champagne reception...

What King Arik Coyotus-I signed today was the official declaration of intent to join the continental defense network.

"Part of this will be an integration of physical resources," the King said, "Such as weapons and the like-- of which, I am pleased to announce, can include the THEL, now that we have more international interest and funding. And, with the orders of more F-22s from places such as Byzantium and Serenity, the costs can be brought down further to increase our own wing of F-22s to a full wing, rather than a half-wing as it presently is."

And so with those words, he signed the Declaration of Intent, and made Canissia a partner in the continental defense concept.

It was no secret the Arik wanted to use this forum of international defense cooperation to springboard into more regional agreements-- better trade agreements between the various regional partners, and a more tightly-coordinated space program, for example.

He hoped that this was merely the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship with his immediate neighbors.





Two Hours Later:
Seaside Palace, Family Room




The King secured some time with his family, and the horde of kids he frequently referred to as... The Horde. He sat with them and endured the giggles and tickles, and dished out a few tickles with the best of them. But then, at a certain time, an expectant hush fell over the room as the timer on the TV came on. The room began to fill with brash music and flashing colors.

"What's on?" he asked his nearest, his daughter Nafrini.
"Oh, Daddy!" she said, rolling her eyes, "Don't you know? It's time for..." --and all the kids inhaled sharply and shouted out at once:
"HUEG KITTENS!!!"

"Of course," he said, looking at the screen, "How could I forget?" It was one of, if not the most popular kids' shows in all of Novaterra, and it came from Shroomania every afternoon.

Up on the screen, a man came onto a cardboard stage of gaudy decor. He had on huge red clown shoes, white tights, with a large, multi-colored jacket that looked like it was made up of patches from every known pattern of fabric on the planet-- Arik saw Hawaiian shirt patches, sequins, corduroy, plaid, camouflage... all sewn together into one gaudy, eye-assaulting garment. Arik looked around to make sure none of his kids were having siezures, and was greatly relieved to see they were all staring in rapt attention to the man on the screen as the man did an improbable breakdance despite the clown shoes.

The man had a goofy grin on his face... he wore giant, obnoxious Elton John-style sunglasses... his hair was purple and it seemed like he changed hats every couple of minutes-- his props and costumes department was constantly tossing out new hats to parts of the stage which were not on camera, and he would casually pick them up and put them on, taking off whatever previous hat he wore and flinging it offscreen like a frisbee. A "vwwhhrrriiiinnngg!" sound would accompany this, much to the amusement of the kids.

"Who is that?" Arik asked Nafrini, who'd become his confidential informant. Again with the exaggerated eye-roll.
"Daddy! That's Cornelius Clownshoes! Ssshhh! It's about the start!"

Cornelius Clownshoes was a great kids' show host, Arik decided. His delivery was clipped yet he used proper words, sentences, and grammar, and he kept attention bouncing around so the kids were never bored. He also had a way of working in demonstrations with wild and crazy toys that frequently involved gears, pouring water into things to change their weight and raise a see-saw, and other feats of simple, yet fun, mechanical engineering.

But soon, Cornelius Clownshoes got to the real heart of the program:
"And now, kids, we know what you're here for... it's time to see what Princess Penelope and Guadalupe Gator have found in the make-believe land of...?" and he cupped his hand to his ear. Arik barely had time to cover his own ears which his kids screamed out--
"HUEG KITTENS!!!"

And the program cut to an animated feature of the world-renown HUEG KITTENS doing their introductory dance--


If only I could get the world leaders to watch this, the world would be a better place, he joked silently...

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

"Oh, there is no doubt the elite will never particularly like their ideological opponents, but the idea here is to make the general populace amicable to simple deals. After all, the CSR doesn't need to love Shroomania, just be willing to deal with them and participate in the Continental Defence Plan, don't they? Certainly, positive propaganda can't hurt relations. Let the ideologically blinded elite stew in their own impotent rage."

"Hopefully things don't turn for the worse.

That aside, there are issues of ISCA. We should really initiate an invite to all nations who are interested to join. Understandably, our shipyards stand to benefit, and we get money to spread around."

====================================

Constantinople Times

Ecumenical Patriarch blesses a group of missionaries heading for al-Akharabat, Veleria

The Ecumenical Patriarch today, praised and blessed a group of missionaries and doctors, bearing more than 40 tonnes of aid, including medicine and food. "In the name of Christ, I beseech you to lend aid to our brothers and sisters. They may be of different faith, but they are still our fellow men," said the Ecumenical Patriarch. A BAM freighter was chartered to bring the aid to the country.

[Raj Ahten]

The situation in the CFR is extremely unstable. Supposedly the nation was run by President for Life Col. Mortimer. He was your basic kleptocrat whose regime was in it only to loot what they from the country. Lately they had even neglected to pay most of the army in lou of putting the money into their San Dorado bank accounts. This is proving to be disastrous as large sections of the army are now defecting or turning to banditry to get fed.

For years a rebel group, known as the Revolutionary Front, had been vying for control of the country. Their goal is basically to take control of the country so they could loot it themselves. Their best units, such as the Iron Tigers, are made up of veterans that were originally trained by Indhopal to fight Coilerburg back during Iler’s war. Other units are nothing better than rabble. They are led by a council of militia commanders who often disagree on the course of action to take.

The war has totally ravaged the countryside, with the capital Flensburg falling to the rebel and being recaptured several times by Mortimer’s forces. Atrocities are routinely committed by both sides. Generally two things have kept the rebels from winning. First, their own fractious leadership often means they start bickering just when victory is around the corner. Second, there are the foreign mercenaries hired by Mortimer. His whole air force is essentially run by them. (The rebels hire mercenaries as well, but foreign fighters aren’t as prominent in their forces.)


The capital building in Flensburg.

There are multiple other factions, gangs and militias running around the countryside as well. One of the more interesting groups is the Yorkshire militias, which have long been the allies of Indhopal, who often pays them to fight by their side. Most of the other groups are militias formed for local defense or simply bandits.

[Siege]

Blast Off

Camp Kittyhawk Rocketfields, just outside San Dorado

Sam Ralson, director of corporate defence and CEO of Ralson Concerns Ltd, walked into the launch control room and inquired of his staff how their final checks were proceeding.

“Just fine, sir director,” came the swift response from Dr. Michael Jensen, the most experienced rocket scientist San Dorado had to offer. “All personnel are in position and we’re working down the final checklist as we speak.”

There was an air of barely suppressed apprehension in the starkly lit room: the missile about to be launched was easily the most ambitious rocketry project ever undertaken in the city-state. The M-15 Simoleon sat on its launch pad several kilometres from the control bunker, seemingly inert, but in fact being remotely primed for launch.

It was a home-built rocket, though ‘inspired’ by the R-12 intermediate range ballistic missile produced by the Crimson Star Republic and the SCUD missiles that littered the arsenals of militaries across the world. Though of course when Ralson said ‘inspired’, what he actually meant was of course that its design was a total rip-off. As long as it worked, though, no-one in Ralson Concerns would be asking any questions.

Jensen looked up from the monitor he’d been watching. “We’re ready for launch, sir.”

“Good work, doctor,” replied Ralson with his typical southern drawl. “You may commence with all due dispatch.”

Jensen scraped his throat. “All right, here it goes…” He pressed a red button that featured prominently on the central console of the control room. “Five… Four… Three… Two… One… Lift-off!”

With a terrifying roar the liquid propellant first stage ignited, lifting the rocket off the launch pad and into the air. Slowly at first, but then rapidly faster the missile accelerated away from the ground, speeding up to its maximum delta-V of 3,770 meters per second.

“So far, so good,” nodded Jensen. “Second stage igniting in three… two… one…”



For a brief instant the dawn sun was eclipsed by a cataclysmic explosion as the M-15 rocket exploded in a ball of fire. Flaming debris pattered down on the rocket fields. Grass caught fire. A thick column of smoke began to rise from the base as small fires coalesced into bigger ones. Sirens began to wail. Hazard teams rushed out to control the worst of the damage.

A tense silence hung almost tangibly in the control room. Personnel looked from Doctor Jensen to Director Ralson, and back again. Jensen clearly didn’t know where to look. It was too early to tell whether the rocket’s failure was actually his fault, but right now, it sure looked as if it was.

Finally, Sam Ralson shrugged and let out a short, barking laugh that stopped abruptly. “Well, one thing is for sure,” he twanged. “It certainly did ignite.”


Result: First test launch of the M-15 Simoleon rocket is a failure.

[Coiler]

Coilerburg rotates airborne forces out of mine holdings

The Coilerburg army has officially relieved the 16th Airborne brigade and the 1st Independent Naval Battalion with elements from the 4th and 6th Infantry Brigades.

[Lonestar]

Foreign Ministry

Vladimir Berman poured two small glasses of Vodka. The San Fuegan ambassador reached for one, but Berman grabbed both and drank both in quick succession.

"Do you know why I've called you in here, Ambassador Ramirez?" Foreign Minister Berman growled.

"To show off your drinking habit?" Ramirez responded. Typically, the San Fuegan Embassy didn't send anyone in without first consulting with their Shepistani "advisers". But the message from the Foriegn Ministry had been so harsh and on such short notice that hadn't been time...

"Seeing as my predecessor got whacked by your sponsors, you'll forgive me for indulging a little. No, the reason why I called you in here is this:" Vladimir placed a folder on his desk, turned it so it could face the Ambassador, then opened it. There were several large glossys of very sick individuals. The last picture was of a San Fuegan vessel passing by a Old Dominion crabbing ship.

"Your country," Berman continued "has been dumping chemicals into the fishing grounds for the Old Dominion crabbing fleet. Tainted crab has poisoned several Old Dominion Citizens and Residents, and killed a couple. We are seeking restitution of $4.5mil per individual...it's all indicated on the spreadsheet on the last page."

"You do not dictate terms to us!" Ambassador Ramirez said.

"No, that would be Shepistan, wouldn't it? So, what's your answer?"

"I will...have to consult with my government."

"Very well." Berman closed the folder and handed it to him. "But be quick about it."

[Shroom Man 777]

LIVE on ShroomSatTV
The Sovereign Shroomanian Sentinel
SEEKING STANISLAV: SHROOM'S STASOGRAD SOJOURN
+ SUBSEQUENT SIRNOTH SHINDIG SIGHTSEE


The Prime Minister prepares to embark to the Crimson Star Republic.

The Prime Minister is preparing to embark to the Crimson Star Republic.

Shroom the 777th's 'Stasograd Sojourn' will be a landmark visit, for he will be the first-ever Shroomanian head of state to set foot on Crimson Star Republic soil in history.

The historic visit, in which the Prime Minister will engage the General Secretary in a series of talks. Shroom the 777th has stated that he aims to improve Crimson-Shroomanian relations by proposing increased cooperation in fields such as science and technology, as well as trade and continental defense.

"I'm aiming to improve Crimson-Shroomanian relations by proposing increased cooperation in fields such as science and technology, as well as trade and continental defense," the Prime Minister stated in a press conference. "It's a new age and I personally believe that we can change things for the better. Shroomania and the Crimson Star Republic are influential Old Continent nations, and we have much to gain by working together.

"With recent worlds events, it is becoming increasingly clear that we need to strengthen friendships and alliances to perpetuate peace and prosperity."

The Sovereignty of Shroomania and the Crimson Star Republic have been historic rivals ever since the end of the Second War of the Worlds - and the iciness reached its peak during the 1980s during the administration of Prime Minister Ronald von Reagan and his wife Hillery Thatcher-von Reagan.

During the 1990s, the period known as the 'Defrosting' occurred as Shroomania underwent liberal and social reforms and as the Crimson Star Republic underwent periods known as perestroika and glasnost. The Defrosting saw the defrosting of Crimson-Shroomanian relations, but both sides have been reluctant to close old gaps.

The Prime Minister has stated that he intends to close those old gaps.

"I intend to close the old gaps," said Shroom. "And I'm not reluctant about it. In fact, I'm rather optimistic."

After the 'Stasograd Sojourn', the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the Sirnoth Principality to participate in the celebrations marking Sirnoth's entry into the Free/Fungal Union of Nations.

Sovereign Setzer of Sirnoth has invited many nations to the festivities, except Shepistan.


The Prime Minister will not be traveling to both the Crimson Star Republic and the Sirnoth Principality in his trademark BAM A380, as it is undergoing maintenance. Instead, the Prime Minister will be flying in a BAM A310 - which will still be designated Shroom Force One.


Result: I am going off for two weeks. In the meanwhile, Shroom will be visiting the Crimson Star Republic and Sirnoth for talks.

You guys improvise.

(Shroom will be Serious Business mode in those two visits, since the locals might not tolerate his superdickery. He'll be all suave and cool and dignified!)

[Lonestar]

Dominion Spaceport


It was in the early hours, and the MESS Scientists were finishing up final checkups. The Lord Fairfax himself was visiting, this would be a momentous launch.

"3-2-1....Ignition." The technician said.




The Rocket lit off and went up into space, carrying the first military communications satellite, a banner moment, the people in the control center cheered.

Outside, through the mirage effect of the smoke and heat, the Lord Fairfax could be seen. He was pleased.

[Siege]

Land Fall

Operation REAL EIGHT, off the shore of North-Frequesue’s untamed wilderness


The Pride and Profit in the Orizaco bay.

The SDN Pride and Profit landing helicopter dock was the crown jewel of San Dorado’s marine corps, a ship designed to land forces on hostile shores, and one of the largest vessels of this type in service anywhere in the world. Some people had argued that the city-state really had preciously little use for such a massive ship, and most of the time they were very right, but today the massive ship actually came in handy.

Despite its origins and reputation as a pirate raider state, REAL EIGHT was actually one of the first marine landings conducted by the SDN in recent history, and the navy was quite intent on ensuring nothing went wrong. The landing site near the Orizaco River was picked because there was absolutely nothing present there that could resist the military force brought to bear. And still, just to be sure, flights of Harriers flew air patrols over the jungle. The destroyer SDN Appleby's Revenge was on hand to lend direct fire support should it be required. Farther away, Citidef flying boats flew interdiction to ensure nothing could sneak into the bay without the military knowing about it.

Finally, when the navy was absolutely sure there was nothing capable of interfering with the proceedings in the area, the landings commenced. LCUs sped out the well deck of the Pride and Profit even as troop helicopters lifted off the deck, speeding inland to deposit their marine compliment further inland.


Elements of 2 Marine Battalion come ashore in northern Frequesue.


A marine corps helicopter disgorges its troop compliment on Hill 9, just off the beach.

The marines rapidly secured a perimeter, the only resistance they encountered posed by angry parrots and looter monkeys. Soon enough, the LCUs began bringing the bulldozers and heavy trucks ashore that would be needed to construct a more permanent base.

Among the aircraft circling over the beach and the surrounding pristine forests was a single civilian Super Puma helicopter. Aboard it, director Iago Morgan of the General Directorate for Finance, Economy and Industry and Milo McKenzie, formerly the mayor of Freetown, watched as the military seized the beach and the surrounding hills.


A Super Puma helicopter in the colours of DIFEI photographed circling above the Orizaco beach.

“Well, Mr. McKenzie, don’t keep us waiting,” said Morgan. “Tell us what you think. Will this site do or do we have to move further inland?”

“Oh, I think it’ll do quite nicely Mr. Morgan,” nodded McKenzie. “More than enough space here. Yes, once your people have paved a runway and cleared some of that ghastly jungle away I think it’ll do quite nicely indeed.”

“Fantastic,” Morgan replied. “Then I’ll let the President know TROPIC TITAN is a go.”


Result: San Dorado seizes a landing site in the untamed wilderness of North-Frequesue, just north of the Orizaco delta. [Which is the river coming down from the two great lakes to the Orizaco bay.]

[Grand Moff Yenchin]

Evening News, Blue Sun Television (BSTV)



"Good evening, this is Melissa Belle. Welcome back to Evening News. Tonight we're presenting a short special on the situation in al-Akharabat, Velestria. Our news group has been interviewing people from various areas in al-Akharabat and we will be providing first hand information."

Special Report on al-Akharabat
by Melissa Belle

"al-Akharabat, torn by civil war between two tribes for more than 15 years, has seen an increase of international activity recently.

"MESS and Cascadian forces have been working hard on providing humanitarian support at the area. However, this hasn't been an easy task. Most of the airstrips and ports have been closed down and even mined by Japanistani and Shepistani forces, citing defensive measures against local pirates. Although the effect of these measures have yet to be evaluated, this has caused much difficulty on sending resources as well.

"Thanks to the amazing airship fleet from the Royal People's Republic of Canissia, humanitarian support resources could still arrive en masse to the Untamed Continent.

"The joint forces of Canissia, Shinra, Tian Xia, Cascadia have also helped provide stability in the area. Maintaining the peace with their fine disciplined troops. Not only they have to fight possible human enemies, they also have to fight a harsh environment, with unknown beasts and severe diseases in the jungle.


Sergeant Hank Lupine, Canissian Airborne Infantry

"So, how do you feel about this mission?"

"To be frank, it's not an easy one. But my comrades and I welcome any kind of challenges. We're eager to help the locals, they've become kind of like our family. Also we feel honored to represent the best our nation can provide."

"Japanistani and Shepistani forces have basically shut down the smuggling operations, mostly carried out by the Caravo people. The Caravos are now beginning to feel the pressure and experiencing economic loss. Heads of smuggling chains, being depressed and angry, have been attacking Japanistani and Shepistani forces for revenge.

"The poverty of the Caravo community will be relieved soon as MESS and Cascadian support comes in. Also joining the humanitarian support are the missionaries from the Byzantium Empire.

"With the joint effort of various nations, peace and hope will be brought to al-Akharabat. Setting up a good example of a multi-national effort. Stay tuned for more on this region...."

[DarthShady]

Breaking News

Zagor Empire Invades The Republic of Sargonia

We have just received information that forces of Emperor Marek of The Zagor Empire have launched a massive attack against the neighbouring Republic of Sargonia. This attack has taken the armed forces of Sargonia completely by surprise and so far they have been unable to mount a defence.


Pictures of the street fighting in Sargonia have already reached the World Media

We are now receiving reports of heavy fighting in the Capital City of Sargonia, it appears that the City of Sargon ha taken massive damage and many buildings are on fire.


Fighting on the streets is fierce and according to our sources in Sargonia, the southern part of the city has fallen. The defenders are being overrun.

"Just a moment...it appears that we are receiving a video statement of the Sargonian President, Mr. E. Valjevcic "

An Image of a man in his fifties is shown inside what appears to be a military bunker.

"People of the world, hear my plea. My nation and my people are under attack by the vile forces of a madman, a madman who calls himself Emperor. He wishes to enslave my people, to take our lands and our homes. We are unable to stop him, our soldiers fight with courage but courage cannot win this war. I beg you to help us, save us. Stop this madman..."

An explosion is heard, the image shakes and the transmission is abruptly stopped.

[DarthShady]

Location: Temple Prime, Sarajevo, USSR

"Mr. President."-the assistant said, her voice trembling, "You have to see this."

She turned on the television and there it was...War. Shady knew this would happen eventually but nevertheless it took him by surprise.

"Get my Generals assembled."-Shady said, "This must be contained before it spreads."

"Yes, Sir."-she said and ran out.
-----------------------------------------------------
Five minutes later

As president Shady entered the room the arguments stopped and all eyes turned on him. "Comrades, please sit down."

"We must decide on a course of action, this must be stopped before it spreads to the entire region."-Shady said, "Have our allies been informed?"

"Yes Sir."-General Anton Slavik said, "They found out when we did."

"All right Gentlemen let me see it."-he said and one of the Generals pushed a button.



"The city of Sargon is marked on the map, it seems most of the fighting is concentrated in the city and the surrounding area."-Slavik said, "This attack has taken the Sargonians by surprise and they have apparently been unable to turn the tide of battle."

"My prediction is that the city will fall within 24hours."-General Marzaq said, "And if the city falls...so shall Sargonia."

"Contact our allies, if we want to stop this it will have to be with their assistance and cooperation."-Shady said, "We don't want to be the only ones interfering in this. In the meanwhile have our forces move to DEFCON 3."

[Shroom Man 777]

+++MUSHROOM MILITARY REGIONAL ALERT+++
+++To FUN Command+++

Recent escalation of hostilities within the breakaway Shadow states, the Zagor Empire and the Republic of Sargonia, has broken out into full-scale war between both factions.

Due to the location of the conflict zone (east of PeZookia, west of the USSR, and in between both nations) the conflict has a definite possibility of threatening Shroomanian - and FUN - interests within the region.

The Mushroom Military is increasing its alert level.

The Shroomanian Air Force is readying its assets (fighters, bombers, recon) to survey the region and to prepare for any possible intervention - be they defensive or offensive.



Should the conflict between the Zagor Empire and the Republic of Sargonia extend beyond the region and into FUN territories, the SAF will be cleared to engage if given permission by the joint FUN and Mushroom Military command.

The SAF has mobilized the 118th Tactical Fighter Wing is deploying them to a forward airbase in PeZookia as a precaution.



The 118th Mobius Squad will perform combat air patrols over the PeZookian border - assisting PeZookian assets in maintaining territorial security.

The 118th Mobius Squad will be cleared to engage all threats should they come under fire.


The 118th Tactical Fighter Wing is on its way to PeZookia.

The 118th Tactical Fighter Wing will be under the direct command of the FUN's joint military leadership.

The Mushroom Marine Force Recon contingent in PeZookia will, likewise, be at the FUN Joint Command's disposal.




[OOC: PeZook, if you want to do anything, then these F-22s are at your disposal. Then, I guess, we can also have a contingent of Mushroom Marine Force Recon ops in PeZookia, and they will be ready for insertion at any time. If the F-22s are sent, then after they destroy Super Chechnya's AA capacities, we can send the B-1s in ]

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

Constantinople Times

Byzantine Emperor condemns the attack on Sargonia

The Emperor, on his visit to PeZookia, issued a statement condemning the attack on Sargonia by the Zargor Empire. "This attack will not go unpunished. We will mobilise the two Roman Legions Legio I Konstantinople Kataphrateoi and Legio XVII Airbourne Comitatenses to deal with the Zagor Empire." The Emperor is understood to be also ordering the air force to stand ready to execute bombing missions.

[Master_Baerne]

Baernish News Service
File BNS-3-80

Captain Ott Reaches Wilderness!

Captain Jason Ott, who last month announced his intention to explore the Untamed Wilderness, arrived last week on the shore of the Inner Lake (OOC: The one East of my country :OOC) , inside the Wilderness. His expedition, currently consisting of Captain Ott, seventy members of his expedition, and Alpha Company of the Second Heavy Regiment, Captain Ott's old unit, which was detached to provide official support for what His Grace termed "A proper depiction of Baernish courage and willpower."

The expedition's mandate has been expanded to include the location of a possible sight for a settlement in the Wilderness, as was requested by the City Tribunal of Fortress Baerne following a study on the overpopulation of the Duchy's capital, which currently holds something like seven million people, straining the city's sanitation and medical services to, and frequently past, their limits.

[Master_Baerne]

Baernish Ministry of War
Private Communique
FROM: Her Excellency Countess Truman, Minister for War, in consultaion with Her Excellency Countess Domizia, Minister for Foreign Affairs
TO: FUN Command

If required, we can have two Heavy Regiments and two Armored Regiments ready to support FUN operations, along with however many fighters we can base in Shroomania and our entire Navy.

[DarthShady]

Baernish Ministry of War
Private Communique
FROM: Her Excellency Countess Truman, Minister for War, in consultaion with Her Excellency Countess Domizia, Minister for Foreign Affairs
TO: FUN Command

If required, we can have two Heavy Regiments and two Armored Regiments ready to support FUN operations, along with however many fighters we can base in Shroomania and our entire Navy.

FROM: FUN Command
TO: Her Excellency Countess Truman, Minister for War, in consultaion with Her Excellency Countess Domizia, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Your offer is appreciated but we believe there is a sufficient presence of local forces to deal with the problem at hand. We do not want to overcomplicate things. If you feel the need to deploy your forces, the USSR will accept them and make the necessary arrangements.

[[OOC: I'm out for the night guys, have FUN. ]]

[Fingolfin_Noldor]

Imperial Chronicles

On the orders of the Emperor, Legio I Konstantinople Kataphrateoi marched all its equipment onto the heavy trains and after 1 day of non-stop loading, all the tanks and equipment were shipped across the border to the USSR. In the Konstantinople Air Base, elements of Legio XVII Airbourne Comitatenses boarded the military transports and flew for USSR, escorted by 4 squadrons of F-15Es and Euro Typhoons, which will participate in the conflict. 8 Tu-160 bombers will also be assigned to the conflict.

[Siege]

Field Trip (II)

International airspace, approaching Frequesue


The presidential aircraft, en route to Sheoth Island.

President Hank had tilted the lush leather seat back and leafed lazily through the official paperwork spread across the working table in front of him. The EIA had provided him with files on the world leaders he was about to meet; reports on the nations they lead; dossiers concerning the recent history of the FTO as well as its protocols and procedures; and a myriad other details.

Most of the president’s attention was occupied by the proposals that had thus far been tabled for discussion during the conference. Indhopal in particular had brought up a not-insignificant number of topics.

1.) Should FTO nations be allowed to be full members of foreign alliance groups such as the MESS or FUN? Personally I would prefer members not associate to that degree with the big alliances. The whole point of the FTO is to keep such alliances from monkeying with Frequesue.

2.) Do we want to form a joint Naval or air command to better integrate our forces for defense?

3.) The CFR is breaking apart as we speak and falling into anarchy. The FTO needs to come up with a plan to deal with the situation, lest the whole region could become destabilized.

4.) Do we want to officially respond to other nation's activities on the untamed continent? I have already sent observers into al-Akharabat; the FTO does not need to take action as a group unless we want to.

5.) Do we want to invest jointly in 5th gen. fighters like the f-22? I would be willing to expand my production of such aircraft if we could drum up large enough orders.

6.) FASTA projects. Do we want to contribute to this organization? Indhopal will be putting forward significant funds for space exploration shortly.

7.) Do we want to have our own space program to launch military satellites?

To this the President had added several proposals of his own:

8.) The establishment of a customs union, a free trade area with a common external tariff, in order to bolster the Frequesuan economies and better protect them against foreign meddling.

9.) The formation of joint naval patrols and task forces to ensure the safety of the seas to and from Frequesue. Goal would be to ensure safe shipping through the seas surrounding our continent, possibly as far as the Impact Crater Archipelago and Veleria.

10.) The pooling of intelligence data, ranging from intel reports to radar feeds, to ensure the best possible defence of the continent.

A yellow warning light blinked on in the cockpit, indicating that the aircraft was nearing Vineyardian airspace. The president put the files and reports back into the suitcase from which they had come, and wondered if he’d have time to scoot off during the summit to score a few bottles of that excellent cognac. They had all the best brews down here...

[Coiler]

President Jeffrey relaxed as his plane flew to the Vineyards, escorted by Coilerburg fighter jets. He didn't believe that the CFR could pose any threat to him, but it never hurt to be careful.

Soon, the FTO conference would begin.

[Master_Baerne]

Baernish Ducal Household
Public Communique
FROM: Chief Steward Ashby
TO: Whomsoever is in charge of the FTO Conference

His Grace will be attending. That's all.

-------------------------
Baernish Ministry of War
Private Communique
FROM: Her Excellency Countess Truman
TO: FUN Command

Understood. Have FUN, all right?

[PeZook]

Orena, Royal Office. Two hours after Zagor Empire attack on Sargonia

"Your highness, we have received word from our FUN allies. They have pledged their support for stopping this conflict. Emperor Heraclius has given orders to move two heavy legions to the USSR in preparation for a ground intervention, and Shroomanian F-22s have been deployed to forward air bases around Fabowice.", general Ellerman was getting the King up to speed on recent events. The conflict came out of the blue: Marek The Cruel managed to launch the offensive without anybody noticing, probably thinking he could seize the capital of Sargonia before the world mobilized a response.

"Good. I want the 1st Hussars and the 12th Armored Cavalry deployed to the eastern border as soon as possible, and ready to enter Sargonia. Make sure they get all the support they'll need."

"Sire, if I may suggest...if Marek The Cruel is allowed to seize the capital, his strategic position will be much more advantageous. I'd like to conduct airstrikes against his troops as soon as possible."

The King nodded. It was a prudent suggestion, since even lightly armed militias would be able to inflict disproportionate casualties during vicious urban combat, not to mention the civilian death toll which would result.

"Do it. Also, see about airdropping supplies for the Sargonians."

"It shall be done, sire."

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

Ultimatum issued to Emperor Marek The Cruel

In recognition of the blatant act of war against Sargonia, undertaken by forces of the Zagor Empire, in violation of peace treaties and guarantees issued by PeZookia, the USSR and the Crimson Star Republic, the Royal Court issues the following demand:

All forces of the Zagor Empire are to begin an immediate withdrawal from Sargonia upon receiption of this ultimatum. Should the demands not be met by 10:30 this day, a state of war shall exist between PeZookia and the Zagor Empire.

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

+++ROYAL ORDER, PRIORITY ONE+++

TO: All field commanders, all branches

1. SITUATION

AT 0630 HOURS FORCES OF THE ZAGOR EMPIRE INVADED SARGONIA, ACHIEVING COMPLETE SURPRISE. CURRENTLY, THE CAPITAL CITY OF SAGRONIA IS UNDER SIEGE.

THIS DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTS A CLEAR THREAT TO FUN INTERESTS IN THE REGION, ENDANGERS STABILITY, THREATENS TO CREATE A HUMANITARIAN CRISIS AND VIOLATES THE LAST PEACE AGREEMENT BETWEEN SARGONIA, ZAGOR EMPIRE, CSR AND FUN.

2. ORDERS

ALL PEZOOKIAN ARMED FORCES ARE HEREBY TO OPERATE AT HIGH READINESS LEVELS. ALL LEAVES ARE CANCELLED.

PEZOOKIAN AIR FORCE WILL BEGIN AIR STRIKES AGAINST ZAGOR POSITIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, WITH THE GOAL OF DISRUPTING THE ASSAULT ON THE CAPITAL CITY. THE AIR CAMPAIGN IS TO BE SUSTAINED UNTILL SUCH TIME WHEN GROUND UNITS CAN BE MOBLIZED TO COUNTER THE THREAT.

ALL OPERATIONS ARE TO BE CO-ORDINATED WITH FUN ALLIES THROUGH THE PROPER CHANNELS

IN THE NAME OF THE KING,
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, PEZOOKIAN ARMED FORCES

+++END ROYAL ORDER+++

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

Fabowice, Kosciuszko Air Force Base, three hours after the announcement

The last few hours have seen frantic activity at the Kosciuszko Air Force Base, one of the largest in PeZookia: it has been expanded lately, earning two extra airstrips, because of its proximity to the border.

The base was home to two full Tactical Bomber Squadrons, armed with A-10 CAS airplanes, as well as the 1st Tactical Fighter Wing, the 1st and 2nd Air Cavalry Brigades and several support squadrons. When the orders came, the base's officer staff got to work drafting an initial plan from countering the Zagor invasion.

Two recon flights were sent over Sargonia almost immediately after the conflict began, and brought back huge amounts of data. Zagor forces pushed all defending troops from the northern parts of Sargonia, and were currently concentrated north of the capital. They consisted mostly of trucks, light armored vehicles and infantry, moving across shitty roads in order to support their attack on the capital

The roads were clogged with men and supplies. They became the obvious target.

December 2nd, 1020 hours, airspace over Sargonia



"Attention all elements, you are entering the target area.", colonel John Bornecki called out over the radio from his E-3 command post. Nearly fifty airplanes, including Shroomanian F-22s, would participate in the first air strike of the Sargonian Intervention.

"Roger that, command, we see the highway now.", came the response from Strike Group One, consisting of twenty-four A-10s.

Below them lay a highway, old and ill-maintained, now stuffed with men - on foot, in trucks and riding on old, dilapidated BMPs. A Typhoon overflight confirmed what everyone suspected: the Empire ignored the ultimatum. All those men were moving towards the Sargonian Capital.

"All elements, it is 1030, and there has been no response from Zagor authorities. We are now at war. Commence attack."

"Understood. Engaging targets."

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

On the ground,two minutes later

"Hey, what's that?", a Zagor militia soldier asked his friend, who was riding next to him on top of a BMP infantry fighting vehicle. He pointed up, towards the sky.

"Looks like birds or something.", his friend answered and grabbed his binoculars.

A low rumble of jet engines began washing out the noise of thousands of marching men. The 'birds' were closing in, fast, and would cut across the front of the formation.

"Holy shit...they're airplanes! Holy Mary...that's a lot of bombs they're carrying!", screamed the soldier who was looking at the strike flight through his binoculars.

"TAKE COVER!!!", screamed an officer nearby, when he saw three A-10 bombers make a sharp turn and quickly approach the mass of men and vehicles from the front. Throughout the formations, guns began firing into the air, traces rounds attempting to stop the ugly, snub-nosed and deadly warplanes from dropping their cargo. Most men, however, had more sense than that, and ran for cover, abandoning their vehicles.

The Warthog flight dropped their load: a mix of cluster bombs and incendiary devices, as they overflew the marching troops, and a deafening series of explosions shook the entire area.



Throughout the front line, similar scenes were playing out, with strike flights bombing and strafing Zagor supply lines. Two A-10s were hit by MANPADS missiles, however, and one was lost before it could make it to a friendly airbase.

Still, by the end of the day, the Zagor offensive hiccuped as ammo trucks burned on the outskirts of the city, gaining some much-needed time for the defenders.

[Karmic Knight]

Wilderness Report

The Vinish Wilderness Survey, with Help from RIS, has released an image of what is the believed situation in the Untamed Wilderness.

[Master_Baerne]

Baernish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Confirmation Note

The Vinish Wilderness Survey has our landing zone exactly right. Assuming no one objects, we fully intend to establish settlements on the Lakeshore region of the Wilderness, the better to relieve Fortress Baerne's overpopulation.