[STGOD] Primary Story Thread

Raxmei · Post by **Raxmei** » 2003-05-16 06:16pm

The incipient trade war against Kokand was already making its presence felt. Many a deal was cancelled as firms shied away from the embroiled star nation. For some the situation was a crisis. For others it was an opportunity.

The sensitive whiskers of the great Skaven freighting clans caught the sense immediately. Now, when the man-things were in disarray and desperate, was the time to strike. Negotiators, their mercantile shock troops, they roused to action and pointed to Kokand. After long centuries of isolation the Skaven would boil out once more and take their rightful place on the galactic scene. The vanguard came bearing contracts.

Thirdfain · Post by **Thirdfain** » 2003-05-16 06:35pm

Very well, the Kokand Empire now imposes a total trade embargo and travel ban on the Monacoran Nation. We also must now deploy and additional four thousand MGM-405 heavy stealth cruise missiles to our African holdings. The these missiles with join six hundred already forward deployed covertly. All are armed with nuclear and biochemical warheads. Any further escalation and we will have no choice but to place them all on launch on warning status

The Kokand Empire would do well to realize that there are currently nearly a million Floater soldiers deployed in the Saharan desert. An entire fleet of Republican warships are at Zarathrustra, recently refitted after the Emancipation war.

The Free Floater Republics will declare immediate war on any power which uses weapons of mass destruction on live targets in the Sol system- such actions threaten the cradle of civilization, and will be met with deadly force.

Post by **Sea Skimmer** » 2003-05-16 06:35pm

Raxmei wrote:The incipient trade war against Kokand was already making its presence felt. Many a deal was cancelled as firms shied away from the embroiled star nation. For some the situation was a crisis. For others it was an opportunity.

The sensitive whiskers of the great Skaven freighting clans caught the sense immediately. Now, when the man-things were in disarray and desperate, was the time to strike. Negotiators, their mercantile shock troops, they roused to action and pointed to Kokand. After long centuries of isolation the Skaven would boil out once more and take their rightful place on the galactic scene. The vanguard came bearing contracts.

"Kokand of course welcomes expanded trade with its NBA ally the Skaven. We now find that only those within the NBA can be fully trusted. Though our economy hurts little for the foolish actions of the Monacoran. In the short period in which Kokand has known of the wider galaxy we have developed little dependence on foreign trade."

Post by **Sea Skimmer** » 2003-05-16 06:40pm

Thirdfain wrote:
The Kokand Empire would do well to realize that there are currently nearly a million Floater soldiers deployed in the Saharan desert. An entire fleet of Republican warships are at Zarathrustra, recently refitted after the Emancipation war.

The Free Floater Republics will declare immediate war on any power which uses weapons of mass destruction on live targets in the Sol system- such actions threaten the cradle of civilization, and will be met with deadly force.

Your troops have now been included in the operational plan. We cannot tolerate such threats. Those powers, which threaten Kokands, have been served notice. Kokand strategic forces within Africa have now been forced to launch on warning status. Any attempt to take military action against Kokand or these launching units will result in their utilization. You cannot hope to stop more then a fraction nor prevent there firing.

We will defend our sovereignty by any means necessary.

***

All Kokand vessels within the system, with the exception of a few transports hastily unloading the last MGM-405 batteries move out of gravity wells and jumped to hyperspace.

Post by **Alyrium Denryle** » 2003-05-16 07:09pm

The DE though we have no ties to the Sol system, will not allow for the use of weapons of mass destruction as a first resort against live targets. The use of nuclear weapons on civilian targets is not an act of war it is an act of terrorism and genocide, and will not be tolerated.

Stand down Kokand Empire. you have threatened to use WMD as a first resort due to what? Trade sanctions? That is not defending your sovereignty, that is an act of pure aggression. I urge you and all nations in the conflict to stand down.

Post by **Sea Skimmer** » 2003-05-16 07:13pm

Alyrium Denryle wrote:The DE though we have no ties to the Sol system, will not allow for the use of weapons of mass destruction as a first resort against live targets. The use of nuclear weapons on civilian targets is not an act of war it is an act of terrorism and genocide, and will not be tolerated.

Stand down Kokand Empire. you have threatened to use WMD as a first resort due to what? Trade sanctions? That is very petty of you. I urge you and all nations in the conflict to stand down.

Are the people of no other star nation able to read nor able to understand the concept of deterrence? Kokand will launch if attacked or overtly threatened militarily. We where driven to this. When other nations back down our forces will no longer be necessary and can be removed. The threat comes from those who reignited a crisis Kokand considered to have ended. Look within your own ranks for the cause.

Until floater forces are removed from the earth's surface our launchers remain at risk. While they remain at risk they will remain on launch on warning status, nothing else can ensure their survival.

We leave the next move to your side.

Raxmei · Post by **Raxmei** » 2003-05-16 07:19pm

The heightened tensions around the Sol system warranted extra precautions. For that reason, the convoy was sent with an unusually heavy escort. The fleet carriers Defenestrator and Lancer and the battlecruiser Celebrant headed the defense. Also among the escorts were five escort carriers of the Cranion class. The carriers held in their bays a total of 50 Chaperon galleys, 5 Cataphract galleons, and 10 in-system freighters. Such a force seemed more than enough to protect the score of freighters, but one never knows what will happen in a world so chaotic as this one. It was better to be overprepared than under.

Most of the convoy escorts were to stay behind as a semi-permanent defense of Skaven interests in the system. Such would cut the cost of escorting ships all the way, concentrating protection where it was needed, and the Kokand were willing enough to base the ships.

Final word came in from the astrogators. Favorable tides were to be expected en route to Sol. With that blessing the ships entered the Warp.

Thirdfain · Post by **Thirdfain** » 2003-05-16 07:33pm

Stand down Kokand Empire. you have threatened to use WMD as a first resort due to what? Trade sanctions? That is not defending your sovereignty, that is an act of pure aggression. I urge you and all nations in the conflict to stand down.

The Kokand empire can do what it pleases. Floater forces in Africa are boarding their vessels and returning to orbit.

The Kokand Empire's meaningless gesture will be treated with contempt. They can not hit any target on earth with their terror weapons without inciting responses from all the Earth-based powers. The military clusters defending Zarathrustra mount enough point defense to easily defeat even a full barrage of ballistic missiles from the Kokand's position. Of course, any weapons launch by the Kokand Empire against targets in the Solar System will force Zarathrustra to remove the Kokand Empire's ability to wage war in the Sol system.

Currently, the entire Zarathrustran Navy is in system, with the Achilles, Odysseus, Hector, and Agammemnon military clusters, and their attendant task forces, near Zarathrustra herself.

Post by **Alyrium Denryle** » 2003-05-16 07:46pm

If they attack you..so much as launch a missile in your direction...We will know.

Post by **Beowulf** » 2003-05-16 08:05pm

Phoenix system, OU space:

Two task forces floated in space, seemingly calmly. In reality, the crews were busy getting ready for what was officially termed a "Deep Space Excersize". The true destination of the fleet was the Sol system, to help reinforce against a possible Monacoran attack. Also being prepared were the M-30 Strategic Response Missiles, aboard the 5 Chien class ships, already hidden within hundreds of cubic light-years of space, powered down, with heavy stealth and cloaking fields engaged.

Straha · Post by **Straha** » 2003-05-16 08:11pm

Sea Skimmer wrote:
Straha wrote: Then you shall eat your words. The Monacoran Nation is now banning all ships heading for Kokkand Teritory from coming through its space, water, ground. Secondly any trade coming out of the Kokkand Empire is now taxed at the cost of 250%.

Very well, the Kokand Empire now imposes a total trade embargo and travel ban on the Monacoran Nation. We also must now deploy and additional four thousand MGM-405 heavy stealth cruise missiles to our African holdings. The these missiles with join six hundred already forward deployed covertly. All are armed with nuclear and biochemical warheads. Any further escalation and we will have no choice but to place them all on launch on warning status

I might point out that any nuclear attack on me is going to hit at least two other nations in collaterol damage, and in most cases a close ally of yours.

We also find it outrageous at the least to threaten us with Nukes when we are only helping you to eliminate trade from the ITA.

Post by **Sea Skimmer** » 2003-05-16 08:15pm

Straha wrote:
I might point out that any nuclear attack on me is going to hit at least two other nations in collaterol damage, and in most cases a close ally of yours.

We also find it outrageous at the least to threaten us with Nukes when we are only helping you to eliminate trade from the ITA.

You have nothing to fear unless you attempt to strike at Kokand. We are more then aware of the capabilities, blast patterns and wind conditions which would effect our detonations. An airburst with a large clean nuclear device would produce no fallout of note while inflicting ample damage.

Thirdfain · Post by **Thirdfain** » 2003-05-16 08:30pm

Actually, they have nothing to fear in any circumstance. There is enough antimissile firepower in orbit around Earth that a ICBM strike is unlikely to inflict even a single hit- keep in mind that there are literally dozens of massive defense stations and a number of warfleets, owned by a large number of Terran-based powers, which would shoot down even a 6-thousand missile barrage. You are foolishly threatening the center of human civilization, the cradle of human life, with no provocation besides a simple trade embargo.

I hope the powers of Known Space can see this action for what it is- the lunatic rambling of the warmongering racists of the Kokand Empire.

Post by **Sea Skimmer** » 2003-05-16 08:56pm

Thirdfain wrote:Actually, they have nothing to fear in any circumstance. There is enough antimissile firepower in orbit around Earth that a ICBM strike is unlikely to inflict even a single hit- keep in mind that there are literally dozens of massive defense stations and a number of warfleets, owned by a large number of Terran-based powers, which would shoot down even a 6-thousand missile barrage. You are foolishly threatening the center of human civilization, the cradle of human life, with no provocation besides a simple trade embargo.

The floaters in ability to read strikes once more. Kokand has not deployed a single ballistic weapon; it has in fact deployed one of the most advanced atmospheric cruise missiles in the sector. And for every real missile you will face a dozen decoys.

HemlockGrey · Post by **HemlockGrey** » 2003-05-16 09:01pm

The Kokand mobilization disturbs the peace of Earth. The Roman Empire has put all ground forces on red alert.

However, we do not wish to escalate any conflict. We merely wish that the Kokand affirm that they do not intend any hostile action against Rome.

Raptor 597 · Post by **Raptor 597** » 2003-05-16 09:02pm

We will respect Kokand's sovereignty unless nuclear fallout or nuclear weaponary delivery fly over Mensia-Dorian Hegemony Solar System provinces.

Stormbringer · Post by **Stormbringer** » 2003-05-16 09:12pm

The Asgard Empire can only veiw with the greatest of alarm the growing Floater belligerence. They attempted to provoke a war before and seem hell bent on finishing the job. We do not want such a course but we maintain our alliance with the Kokand and all of our New Beijing Alliance bretheren. It is our regret that the Floater talk of brotherhood is merely talk.

The Floater claims are just that, backed up only by their propoganda and the lies of those that would see them succeed. We stand by our claims and in defiance of Floater lies. We also must insist that the Floaters pay the debt they owe the Asgard. Those installations were custom work and as such are useless. We hereby file a formal grievane in the ITA against the Floaters for non-payment of the debt they legally incurred by the purchase of our technology.

The Asgard seek only peace with our neighbors and fellow creatures. We acted in defense of our Allies after they suffered an unprovoked attack, we will never apologize for fufilling our obligations and moral duty even in the face of Floater belligerence. It is our sincerest hope that this does not lead to war.

-Imperial Address before the Asgard Senate

Thirdfain · Post by **Thirdfain** » 2003-05-16 09:13pm

The floaters in ability to read strikes once more. Kokand has not deployed a single ballistic weapon; it has in fact deployed one of the most advanced atmospheric cruise missiles in the sector. And for every real missile you will face a dozen decoys.

Long range missiles. Ballistic, cruise, whatever- Simple targets at these short ranges, with their origin points readily trackable by orbiting Floater warships and troops on the ground.

Note once again, fellow citizens of the Sol system, the Kokand Empire's aggressiveness. They respond to a simple trade embargo by deploying over 6,000 long-range strike missiles to Earth herself, in an obvious attempt to escalate a conflict.

These are not rational people. These are not moral people. Those in charge of the Kokand Empire show, once again, that their racism and xenophobia guide their every action.

Post by **Alyrium Denryle** » 2003-05-16 09:16pm

It is the official position of the DE to support the Floaters in this conflict. We also believe that the Asgard are begining to believe their own propaganda.

Stormbringer · Post by **Stormbringer** » 2003-05-16 09:17pm

To: ITA
From: Asgard Trade Secretary
Sub: Floater Debt

The Floater have attempted to shirk their payment for several defensive installations. Such work was a custom installation and we consequently cannot simply re-use or resell them. We request that the ITA, as an impartial trade body, take steps to ensure that the Floaters pay their legitimate case. We have enclosed documents detailed the complete accounting of the $12 billion project of which $7.2 billion is still outstanding.

Stormbringer · Post by **Stormbringer** » 2003-05-16 09:18pm

Alyrium Denryle wrote:It is the official position of the DE to support the Floaters in this conflict. We also believe that the Asgard are begining to believe their own propaganda.

We regret that you have chosen to believe the lies of the Floaters and their allies.

Post by **Alyrium Denryle** » 2003-05-16 09:18pm

You demanded extray payment after the original purchase. That extra 7.2 billion was not part of your original contract, your claim has no validity.

Post by **Alyrium Denryle** » 2003-05-16 09:20pm

Stormbringer wrote:
Alyrium Denryle wrote:It is the official position of the DE to support the Floaters in this conflict. We also believe that the Asgard are begining to believe their own propaganda.
We regret that you have chosen to believe the lies of the Floaters and their allies.

I have seen the intel reports from both sides, I believe no lies.

OOC: I read the original hapinstance in detail.

Thirdfain · Post by **Thirdfain** » 2003-05-16 09:20pm

To: Asgard Trade Secretary
From: Kharamite Executive Office
Sub: Floater Debt

The trade agreement for the shield generators involved NO EXCHANGE OF MONEY. The Asgard Empire traded the shield generators for a military alliance with the Republic of Kharam- they are in fact the ones who defaulted on their payment, when they opened fire on vessels of the Kharamite Templar Navy.

The Asgard Empire decided to throw away our military alliance, therefore, we have thrown away their shield system. It is as simple as that.

Stormbringer · Post by **Stormbringer** » 2003-05-16 09:21pm

Alyrium Denryle wrote:You demanded extray payment after the original purchase. That extra 7.2 billion was not part of your original contract, your claim has no validity.

Payment was agreed upon in terms other than pure money, part was to be covered by certain diplomatic agreements which the Floater's renounced. Since Floater belligerence has made the fufillment of such contracts impossible we must demand payment in currency.