Wood & Lead: the Angliarique Gambit

[Angliarique]

Sanctum of Laurels, Bearer of Bad News

Urgent footsteps tapped the floors leading towards the chancellor’s office. “Emergency! Attack! Attack! We’ve been hit!” A well-dressed man screamed as he entered past the creaking door of the office.

Man: My chancellor! You must see this! It is dire! We’ve been attacked!

Chancellor: By what?! From who?!

The chancellor’s face turned pale, as he read through the emergency communication sent from Admiral Misorich of the Angliarique Superfleet situated at Frescania. It revealed that they had been attacked by a foreign navy, none other than by the Republic of Tianlong. The chancellor turned to the man.

Chancellor: When did this come in?

Man: A few minutes ago!

Chancellor: We must inform the Prince. He leads us now; he needs to know!

En route to the Manor of Valeria, a Rush of Calls

In a convoy of heavily armed vehicles, the chancellor travelled in the one direction he had always done, in times of crisis. On the road to the imperial residence, a flurry of phone calls rang. First, from the Interior Governor Lord Henry. The chancellor received it.

Henry: Have you heard?! About t- th- the attack!

Chancellor: Yes! I’m on my way to their majesties right now! You should come too!

Just then, another call from his aide’s phone rang, it was the Lady Pembroke. The chancellor glanced at the incoming call, whilst Lord Henry was still in a panic rant about the sudden incident.

Chancellor: Look! Henry! I’ve got a call waiting for me. You need to calm down, and get here right now!

Henry: Where?! For god sakes!

Chancellor: The Manor! You idiot!

The chancellor hung up the phone, and quickly received Lady Pembroke’s call, on the last second just as it was about to end. In a panting and gasping breath of voice, he spoke.

Chancellor: I know, what you’re going to say!

Pembroke: Oh really?! You must’ve been here too then. The European Forum has such a wonderful bar. Can you believe it? Drinks from everywhere!

Chancellor: Excuse me?! Have you not heard of the attack?! On your ships!

Pembroke: What do you mean?! Attack?

Chancellor: Your ships have been hit by the Tianese lizards. You need to calm down, and seek shelter immediately, get to the embassy bunker now!

Pembroke: Sorry, I can’t hear you, the line’s breaking! What about the Tianese?! Hello? Hello?!

The line between the two officials broke, and an urgent effort was performed to restore communication. But, to no avail. What had happened to Exterior Governor Lady Pembroke, was anyone’s guess.

Manor of Valeria, the Prince’s Act

Soon, the chancellor’s convoy arrived in front of the Manor’s main entrance, to the surprise of tourists and curious onlookers, unaware of the danger that the empire was in. The chancellor hastily left his convoy behind and ran for the Prince’s bedchamber. He knocked upon the door, as was customary for non-royals to do when they wished to speak to the Prince, in the first light of morning. The Prince, Haglia, bade the chancellor to enter. He did so, as the iron doors shut loudly behind him.

Chancellor: Your grace, I bear with me, news of a grievous kind. Our ships at Frescania, have been attacked by the Tianese navy. I request your counsel.

Haglia: I know. I’m aware of this military disaster. And my father, I dare say, is extremely angry. In his eyes, you have become a parasite.

Chancellor: I pray for forgiveness, your grace! Spare me! Please! Spare me!

Haglia: You’re fortunate for the emergency proclamation. I have the power to spare your life. But, you shall serve only me now!

Chancellor: Yes… your grace is most kind! Anything! I will do anything! Your grace has my word! I promise!

Haglia: Aren’t you a low servant?! Let’s clear ourselves of this mess. My father has advised me to declare war. I have agreed to do so.

Chancellor: I accept the decree, your grace. The government affirms this decree. I shall order the Foreign Affairs Cabinet to dispatch a letter.

6 hours After the War Declaration

A detachment from the Horizon 2nd Squadron of the Airborne Vanguard, involving 5 heavy transport helicopters hovered just 29,000 ft above the horrific blood pool of the aftermath of the Lizard Republic’s massacre of the Angliarique Superfleet. Tons upon tons of piles of wood, white sails tainted red by blood, and bodies of hundreds of sailors covered the beaches and surrounding waters of Frescania.

An old commander led the detachment, peering over his window whilst piloting the aircraft, he witnessed the sorrowful sight. And was deeply enraged. He saw a glimpse of the aircraft carriers engulfed by fire, explosions of orange flame pierced through the ships’ hull, as desperate men hurled themselves off to escape from what was to become a fiery grave. The commander had to let go of his rage for a moment, and in a steady manner he communicated his sights to Port Lionheart, the Command Center of the Angliarique Interior Army.

Commander: All galleons sunk, estimate, 1200 dead at least. Both carriers still on fire, likely to sink.

Port: Understood. Return to port immediately. Do not engage.

Commander: Understood. But what about the Exterior Governor?

Port: A separate detachment is on the way, for the rescue mission. Return to port immediately.

Commander: Understood, returning now.
​

Port Lionheart

As the sunlight pierced through the blinds of a small room in the Angliarique Interior Army Headquarters, at Port Lionheart. Prince Haglia dressed in military uniform, with medals and stars studded upon his apparel, shouted orders from left to right. His face was one filled with anger, and his fingers clenched tightly upon a rolled-up piece of paper. He pointed to a general, and then a colonel, then he shouted at both of them with hellish fury. The three men stood next to a map of the scene of battle, deliberating their plans for exacting revenge.

Haglia: General! We have lost all our ships! How will we carry out our main objective now?! Especially, with the Tianese upon us!

General: Forgive me, your grace. No one could've known that the Tianese could be so bold. We did all that we can to ensure that this wouldn’t happen.

Haglia: And where has that led us?! Straight into the fiery breath of the Tianese Dragon! Now our fate lies with father’s meeting with Konstantin!

Colonel: May I interrupt, your grace? Even without Konstantin, we could still deal considerable damage to Tianlong’s inner cities. People want revenge.

Haglia: Are you serious?! Attacking civilians would make us a fool! Do I have incompetents for advisors?! I believe we should take them piece by piece.

General: I agree, your grace. But, we don't have the capabilities. It would be suicide. Walking among the dragon’s teeth.

Colonel: He is correct, your grace. Our men pale in comparison with the Tianese. I urge your grace to reconsider.

Haglia: No! It is final. Inform the Spascirian Labour Council, that Spascirians will now undergo conscription. We will use them to shield our superior forces, until they reach the main objective. You know what the objective is, don't you?

General: The Tianese?

Haglia: No! The European Forum!

 

[Imimoya]

International waters near Frescania

Two multi-role ships, livers of the Free Navy of the Republic, detach themselves from the main group, to head 12 nautical miles, approximately 23 km. Keeping them company, in addition to the air cover offered by the aircraft in the area, was a submerged submarine, which hid her presence from the enemy in case of retaliation. The vessels took good range of fire, and aimed both their 127/64 guns in the direction of the coast of Frescania, where the Angliarique fleet was positioned. All parties have been warned, it will be up to mothers to mourn their children who died abroad.

Radio Officer; "Sir, Uicheon confirms, green light for engaging enemy forces."

Commander; "Load ammunition Vulcano long range guided ammunition, high explosive projectile, short burst, start from aircraft carriers."

Fire Officer; "Loaded high-explosive Vulcano ammunition, useful range 22,000 meters, objective in focus, sir."

Commander; "Fire!"

*Sound of consecutive explosions.*

GDR OFF; I don't use dice for a wooden and/or defenseless target.

 

[Thaumantica]

Ports of Engwahl and Nieveland

With operations completed in the Gothic Sea the Thaumantic Navy was in rest, refitting, and recuperation when it was asked to return once more for another deployment.

"No! Not today, not tomorrow, not the next day!" Admiral Lawson replied to the Thaumantic Order Commisar's order to deploy immediately in the Engelsea.

The submarine units might be ready within a few days if rushed and would push out to the water surrounding Angliarique itself. Sooner then, in moments even, the Communal Commisar would announce a tactile guarantee of their Anglian neighbor.

 

[Serenierre]

Château de Verdelot
Premier Alexandre Renaudierre received the news from the Defense Minister Hervé Bettancourt. The Ti'an had finally lost patience with the antics of the Angliarique and unleashed, according to preliminary reports, a mighty volley into the ramshackle fleet that country had sent to violate the sanctity of the demilitarized zone in Frescanian waters. Obviously, there would be repurcussions to this and the next few days would prove to be taxing.

He steadied himself and for a moment closed his eyes. His office in the château was silent, with only the gentle hum of the air vent to break the peace. For a few moments he focused only on his breath and allowed everything around him to fade into nothing. Since his ascension to the office of the Premier, beating out Elisabeth Martinique from her eleven year occupation of the Premiership, he knew he had to be a better Premier than that horrible war monger. And yet, he knew he could not yield to inaction either.

The navy was already under orders to maintain enhanced vigilance in the Engel Sea. A number of frigates and submarines were already on patrol and Directorate 77 had unleashed a silent campaign of intelligence gathering to keep an eye on all the happenings in the capitals of the main participants of the ongoing circumstances.

He opened his eyes and immediately called the number of Marie-Hélene Carsiérre - his foreign minister. She had proven herself to be a valuable ally in his long and arduous battle against former Premier Martinique in his days as opposition leader; and that strength remained the case now that their party was in government.

"Hélene," he said. "Did you see my email?"

"Oui, M. Premier," the cool voice responded from the other end of the secure line. "We need to keep our policy clean, as much as we can, at least until we have clarity on where things are going."

"I agree. I've already sent a dispatch to the Foreign Ministers of Bezonvaux, Ebria, and Hanseaten. I think it may be right to have a chat with them all and keep the diplomatic option available at the multilateral level."

"Good. I'll also be speaking to Thaumantica, Rheinbund, and Radilo. We need to see how to handle all of this madness. I am sure that the new Tarusan power bloc will try to exert its authority in their usual way."

"Should we reach out to Kremlyov?" Carsiérre asked.

"Absolutely, but let's be a bit back channel about it. You know Martinique will have a field day if she found out."

"True. The old bat has been feisty these past few weeks. Crossed paths with her in Parliament the other day. If looks could kill, my God!"

Alexandre laughed. "Did she say anything?"

"No, it was just one of those unspoken things. She's much too polite to insult me publicly."

"I wish I could say the same."

Carsiérre laughed.

 

[Radilo]

Abord a private jet bound for Palmira, Frescania
10:30 PM

"It seems we're the last rats off a sinking ship." Anzolo's assistant said to him as they buckled in for their flight to Palmira.

"Seems that way, yes," he said as he poured himself a hearty helping of Jewel of Tasura vodka.

"Sir, this is not the time to be drinking."

"With all due respect, young lady, now is the perfect time to be drinking."

At that moment a stewardess walked up with a phone in hand: "sir, it's the Tianese ambassador."

"Thank you," he said, taking the phone, "你好。 不，没关系。 是的，和今天早上的协议是一样的。"

("Nǐ hǎo. Bù, méiguānxì. Shì de, hé jīntiān zǎoshang de xiéyì shì yīyàng de.")

("Hello. No that's fine. Yes, it is the same agreement as this morning.")

"I forget you can speak eleven languages," his assistant said with a smirk.

"Well, thirteen if you count Radin as a language instead of a dialect."

"I also forgot that you were from the mountains," she said.

"I grew up poor too," he smirked, "your upper-middle class upbringing in Nouvo Porto had nothing on me. I didn't have running water or electricity as a kid--and I didn't have my own pair of shoes until I went to college."

"A college where you excelled."

"As did you. I still cannot imagine why you are my understudy. When I inevitably die of cirrhosis, which won't be too long," he said, chugging the rest of his vodka and pouring himself another, "you can't possibly want this life."

"You don't know what I want," she responded curtly.

"Fair eneough."

"What did the Tianese ambassador want?"

"Just confirmation. Our Navy is on standby, but this victory is their's. The Celestial Republic gets to defend democracy and the liberal world order. It's a political win for them. And we have no intention of interfering with that. The CETO Secretary General called me earlier to confirm as much. But that we had to be evacuated to Nouvo Porto may have given them pause to confirm."

"We're not going to Nouvo Porto, you oblivious drunk... we're heading to Palmira. It was the safest port of call in the Republic that did not have us flying over warships."

"Oh."

"You--which by extension means we--are guests of His Magesty tomarrow for brunch."

"I'll need to drink more then."

"I swear to God, why?"

"Have you ever met the Senator... sorry Emperor... if that man is wearing cloths he didn't sleep in I'll be shocked. He drinks more than I do, and he smokes joints like they're cigarettes."

"You're wearing a red star pin. And I happen to know your politics."

"I didn't say I didn't like him. I said I need to drink more... ma'am..." he gestured towards a passing flight attendant, "another bottle of Jewel of Tarusa."

"Jesus."


@Tianlong
@Oltremare

 

[The Federation]

The Federation carrier group had been the first to arrive when Angliarique had informed of their intent to sail a fleet into Frescania. Now they sat in international waters and watched as Tianese ships blew up wooden museum pieces and ancient aircraft carriers out of the water.

Charleroi had sent orders to be on high alert but keep out of the conflict by all means. Federation aircraft set up a patrol to protect the fleet and the destroyers and cruisers put themselves in formation to protect the carrier. Supersonic bomber crews at Midway were also put on high alert, if something were to happen to the Federation ships in the area the skies would be filled with missiles from ships and bombers.

 

[Rheinbund]

Strictly speaking, given the nature of the Angliariquean war ships, this war could last only one salve: The one knocking the Angliariquean ships out. But the Rheinian government anticipated on possible cards in the sleeves of the Angliariquean ambassador, and wanted to prevent that accidents would escalate this "demolition of naval history", as one of the higher officials bemused it, into something bigger. So Minister of Foreign Affairs Gustav Kohlschreiber and some of his highest diplomats invited the ambassadors of The Federation, Ebria, Tianlong and Serenierre for an extended lunch.
The ambassador of The Federation was assured that Tianlong's actions were solely pointed at Angliarique and nothing else, and was asked to first investigate and then shoot, so that an accident would not escalate into a full-blown war between CETO and The Federation plus allies.
The ambassador of Tianlong was invited just to discuss matters through and ask what Tianlong expected from the Rheinbund.
The ambassadors of Ebria and Serenierre were also assured that Tianlong's actions were solely pointed at Angliarique and nothing else, and were asked if the Rheinbund could help with anything.

 

[Josepania]

Abord a private jet bound for Palmira, Frescania
10:30 PM

"It seems we're the last rats off a sinking ship." Anzolo's assistant said to him as they buckled in for their flight to Palmira.

"Seems that way, yes," he said as he poured himself a hearty helping of Jewel of Tasura vodka.

"Sir, this is not the time to be drinking."

"With all due respect, young lady, now is the perfect time to be drinking."

At that moment a stewardess walked up with a phone in hand: "sir, it's the Tianese ambassador."

"Thank you," he said, taking the phone, "你好。 不，没关系。 是的，和今天早上的协议是一样的。"

("Nǐ hǎo. Bù, méiguānxì. Shì de, hé jīntiān zǎoshang de xiéyì shì yīyàng de.")

("Hello. No that's fine. Yes, it is the same agreement as this morning.")

"I forget you can speak eleven languages," his assistant said with a smirk.

"Well, thirteen if you count Radin as a language instead of a dialect."

"I also forgot that you were from the mountains," she said.

"I grew up poor too," he smirked, "your upper-middle class upbringing in Nouvo Porto had nothing on me. I didn't have running water or electricity as a kid--and I didn't have my own pair of shoes until I went to college."

"A college where you excelled."

"As did you. I still cannot imagine why you are my understudy. When I inevitably die of cirrhosis, which won't be too long," he said, chugging the rest of his vodka and pouring himself another, "you can't possibly want this life."

"You don't know what I want," she responded curtly.

"Fair eneough."

"What did the Tianese ambassador want?"

"Just confirmation. Our Navy is on standby, but this victory is their's. The Celestial Republic gets to defend democracy and the liberal world order. It's a political win for them. And we have no intention of interfering with that. The CETO Secretary General called me earlier to confirm as much. But that we had to be evacuated to Nouvo Porto may have given them pause to confirm."

"We're not going to Nouvo Porto, you oblivious drunk... we're heading to Palmira. It was the safest port of call in the Republic that did not have us flying over warships."

"Oh."

"You--which by extension means we--are guests of His Magesty tomarrow for brunch."

"I'll need to drink more then."

"I swear to God, why?"

"Have you ever met the Senator... sorry Emperor... if that man is wearing cloths he didn't sleep in I'll be shocked. He drinks more than I do, and he smokes joints like they're cigarettes."

"You're wearing a red star pin. And I happen to know your politics."

"I didn't say I didn't like him. I said I need to drink more... ma'am..." he gestured towards a passing flight attendant, "another bottle of Jewel of Tarusa."

"Jesus."


@Tianlong
@Oltremare

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Ristorante Presidential, Albergo Nazionale
Palmira, Oltremare

The normally bustling restaurant was much quieter than usual, allowing for the sound of the waves crashing against the nearby shore to filter in more noticable. This was due to the unusual lack of patrons sampling the various cuisines both Radillan and Yaran in nature, though the quality of the food wasn't what drove the guests away as it was the extensive security of Palmireino and Radillan guards, given the patrons that remained.

The music was still playing though, an upbeat tempo that added to the natural sounds of the beach and completed an appropriate background noise to the luxurious, tropical atmosphere the restaurant, and indeed the hotel as a whole, had to offer. There were a variety of dishes, each individual offering relatively small but adding to a more extensive, hearty breakfast as a whole: tortilla de papas con revoltillo de huevo in the more traditional Ebrian colonial styles, paired of course with the finest pan con mantequilla y café con leche to top it all off. Pastries were offered on the side, to ensure a sweet tooth was satisfied in the midst of savory delights, as well as the usual rum and tequila drinks to ensure the alcoholics didn't feel left out.

L'Imperatore Giuseppe Davide Constantino VII certainly didn't, and he knew both his evacuated European Forum delegate Conte Maurizio Auditore and the Radillan delegate Anzolo with his assistant felt most satisfied with what was offered as well, allowing for a pleasant atmosphere to be complete and almost stifle the potentially unpleasant conversation that was to follow. "I am so happy you could join me and Conte Auditore for brunch this morning, Representative Anzolo. The flight from Frescania before the chaos could unfold must have been quite the harrowing experience... it warms my heart to know you, like us Palmireinos, ensured the safety of our people before the Tianese started throwing their weight around."

Conte Auditore smiled softly in the background, knowing exactly where this conversation was going. The Palmireino Emperor was unhappy with how things unfolded, and was unusually reserved about it on Twatter, which meant either the Prime Minister had taken away his phone, or was strangely taking the situation seriously. Either way, it was an oddity, and was going to be entertaining to watch from the background as he dug into his meal politely.

"It truly is a shame it came to this..." L'Imperatore continued, leaning back in his wooden chair and holding his coffee cup nonchalantly, "The Tianese once again feeling the need to flex their hard power, and once again dragging the Radillan Republic, and therefore by extension my own realm, that much closer to a global war when we just narrowly avoided the last one in Tarusa. I tell you, Your Excellency, it's becoming harder for me to justify to my own ministers the reason CETO even exists if the Tianese are just going to keep being aggressive and making us all look bad... tourism rates are projected to decline with the increased conflict, trade is becoming a little more expensive and therefore the profits to fund our social services are declining, and the global reputation of those tied to the... what do the Anglisarians call them again...? Ah yes, the Lizard Republic of Tianlong is just... embarrassing to say the least. That moniker is trending on Twatter and it's not doing us any good to be so closely tied to this... I'm sure I'm preaching to a choir here, but what good exactly is coming from being part of this alliance as of late...?"

It truly was unfair, hemming and hawing over such matters to someone whose job was temporarily on hold due to a diplomatic spat gone horribly wrong, but L'Imperatore was going to complain, it was his right given his imperial status, and the food and atmosphere of Palmira was just going to have to work overtime to make up for it.

@Radilo

 

[Tarusa]

175km North of Frescania
Aboard Amphibious Assault Ship Sergey

The sounds of the six choppers on the decks began to stir as the powerful engines came to life as a Spetsnaz company began to fill the rear of the six helicopters. The task force was to operate in the region between Frescania and Anglia to act as a first line of defense for the small nation and to deter and monitor any further escalation from the Tianese and their associates.

The Spetsnaz company had been briefed in the early evening hours of what their mission was to entail. They would insert right before nightfall on the beaches just off the harbor and move into a position to control the harbor and secure the area and report back for any potential stragglers and what exactly the situation was on the ground. If they encountered trouble air support and ground support was nothing more than a radio away as another company of their Spetsnaz battalion was their reinforcements and jets were ready on the carrier to provide any potential air support that shouldn't be needed. The Tianese had left, or so they had been told, and a fight with local police was not expected nor encouraged, but they as well were authorized to use any force necessary to secure the site of the Tianese massacre.

The six helicopters flew across the open sea's to make their approach on the Island from the North-West, as they made it closer to the island they were immediately painted by Tianese ships in the area showing they were under radar lock, a quick decision was made to continue forward, Tianlong would be forced to be the bad actor once more, but nothing came of it as they were not engaged.

By now the fires had largely burned out and could not be seen across the horizon, as they made their approach upon the city of Fortaleza they could see the charred hulks of the carriers sticking up out of the water just outside the cities harbor as they rested their keels on the bottom. Ships were trapped in the harbor, and those that were destined for it had decidedly found themselves in the ports of other nations or back to sea.

Five helos set down outside of the harbor unloading the soldiers aboard who regrouped and each platoon set out on their destination to secure the area and begin analyzing the situation as the helicopters took back to the air. They would return in the morning to carry out a supply drop for the men or retrieve them depending upon the situation. As the Spetsnaz soldiers made their way along the harbor closing it off and securing it from everyone except their own personnel, they could not help but look across and see the superstructure of the carriers that were still above the water and shaking their heads as floating debris from the wooden ships littered the waters, pieces of history blown to pieces in a show of force, showing how weak the Republic of Tianlong truly was.

The sixth helo landed in the lawns of the European Forum with 24 men rapidly exiting the rear. Three men setup a perimeter around the helo as the others made entry into the complex. They had come for Lady Pembroke who had been last reported as being at the European Forum at the time of the attack. Their entry into the building would potentially enrage many in the world, but she was the VIP that had been brought here by the Anglians, and they would find her and retrieve her. The building itself had been largely empty, many of the local workers of the building had either returned home or left the island entirely. The European Forum had ceased functionality following the Tianese attack on the Anglian museum fleet. The building was still under guard, as even with the flight of many some had found it as a refuge so some of the guards stayed to keep the building safe and from potential looters who'd take advantage of the madness that had ensued as this small Island became a global flashpoint.

Most of the guards that remained at the complex were cooperative, they would rather not have a fight in the buildings with a military unit, the few that had raised a fuss were simply detained for a short while. After twenty minutes or so they had found Lady Pembroke, she had remained where she was at before, in the bar. The platoon leader signaled for her to come with them, they were friendly and were there to make sure she made it home safely, a few others helped themselves to a bit of the liquor behind the bar to take home as a souvenir, after-all how often would they ever be in Frescania which housed the booze of the world to serve the elite that thought they ruled it.

The helicopter proceeded to fly over the harbor to show her exactly what had all transpired, dropping the platoon to proceed to the rest of their company as it would take Lady Pembroke to the Sergey where she would then be able to communicate back home

((OOC: Made an edit to include a part by Tianlong after discussing with lars))

 

[Angliarique]

Sanctum of Laurels

On a cold Friday morning, Prince Haglia sat down for a meeting with members of his government, they deliberated over various matters of public interest.
The prince was in an anxious mood, just only a day before had his military advisers advised against targeting the European Forum. Now the prince sat in paranoia, fearing a potential coup. The meeting soon began when the most senior FAC diplomat, Sir Lutoune, broke the uneasy silence.

Lutoune: Your grace, the Exterior Office has prepared a plan that would enable achievement of the primary objective. But, it warns of serious drawbacks.

*Prince Haglia reads the plan's summary*

“The military might of neighbouring nations, and the overwhelming security of the Westernesse Federation, as well as that of its allies, renders the undertaking of the European Forum’s destruction by the Interior Army and its partners, to be nearly unfeasible. Noting certain possible restrictions, that include military and economic repercussions, the Exterior Office advises against making the European Forum, the primary objective of the Angliarique Interior Army. The current situation of war involving a CETO member, also presents great challenges and hindrances in the pursuit of this unnecessary objective. The Exterior Office strongly advises against pursuing the destruction of the European Forum building in Frescania, that would ultimately antagonise neighbouring countries, creating conditions that may likely increase risk of nations participating in the Anglia-Tian war, on the side of the Tianese Republic.”

Haglia: Lutoune, what is the meaning of this rude letter? How dare the Foreign Cabinet oppose me! It is awful. Do you really think this?

Lutoune: Your grace, this is the opinion of the FAC. We are very much opposed to attracting more enemies. The destruction of the EF will be our loss. Please reconsider the primary objective. Our main target right now, must be the Republic of Tianlong. They have sunk our fleet, and devastated us. Retaliation must be our sole priority. We cannot run the risk of incurring the wrath of other nations, for I fear, that in a multi-frontal attack, our forces will capitulate completely. And besides, the survival and continuity of the Angliarique Throne will be precarious.

Haglia: Is that right? Do you have no faith in the might of our men? I cannot allow this treacherous nonsense, we must push into Frescania, and secure our place on the world stage. The European Forum cannot stand, we must blow it up. All of it! Our primary goal will be the EF, it’s only an island nation, what’s there to be afraid of? Or are you telling me, that you are afraid of war, a coward?

Lutoune: Your grace, please, I must stress that it’s in our best interests not to invade Frescania. We must focus and concentrate our military efforts against the Tianese forces. If as your grace says, that we attack Frescania, the first thing that’ll hit us will not be a Frescanian mortar round, but a Federation missile. Our cities will be levelled to the ground, these earth-flattening devices will render our military infrastructure unviable. It will take away the capability to defend ourselves, and your grace’s position will be under real threat. Not to mention, how the Angliarique public would react, there wouldn’t be enough personnel at home to supress a rebellion. Making the EF a priority will trigger a revolution. And your grace, forgive me, will be the target.

After the long rant by Sir Lutoune. Prince Haglia sat in his chair with a stunned expression across his face. He had never considered that an attack against European Forum would have such dire consequences, it was now known to him that the focus of war should be against the Tianese Republic. And so, he agreed with Sir Lutoune that ultimately, it would be unwise to attack the European Forum, for now.

 

[Radilo]

Both Anzolo and his assistant were a bit tired looking; they had not managed much sleep and were a bit tense. Well, she was tense, sipping on the buzzy local coffee. Anzolo hadn't taken anything to drink yet, and had not parkaten in the food laid out before them. He sat, stonefaced, existing somewhere between drunkenness and a hangover.

"Well, Your Majesty..." his assistant started.

"Senator--" he interjected, grabbing a bottle of rum and filling a coffee cup to the brim, "you're a man of history. What does a the projectile from an 18th century six-pounder do to a human body?"

L'Imperatore was taken back and quite offended by the use of his other title. Anzolo's assistant nearly spat out her coffee.

"You have fallen for bad faith arguments that compare only the ability to project power as the basis of moral supremacy. It's as if it is only ethical consideration here was the relative brawn of the competing fleets. Well here's a comparison of might for you: a fleet of your ancestor's fully armed ships-of-the-line versus unarmed or civilians or and maybe a few security guards with pistols. Don't you understand--they wanted to make attacking them look ridiculous. That's why they used antique ships. True, against a fully modern fleet they looked pathetic, but they went there to do damage, and they would have. Which is why what our allies did what was necessary, and this will not be the last of such antics--as it was not the first. And if you want to learn why we are right to fear their savagery, you should ask that drug lord you hold court with--he will tell you about the brutality they impose on their own people. Democratic nations must do what is necessary. CETO has proven an effect deterrent, and powerful force for good. Note the faces of the mouths who criticize it. The faces of men and women who raped and brutalized more than a million of your, now, fellow citizens and murdered their families. Look at the naked opression."

L'Imperatore still had a stunned look of indignation on his face.

"Have you been listening to anything I've been saying you spoiled little brat?"

"What the fuck did you just say to--"

Anzolo interuped L'Imperatore, "--that you are a platinum spoon born armature philosopher who rants about bullshit conspericy theories about how much people are being exploited when you do nothing about it. Senator, you get to wave around that ridiculous title because of a deal the rest of the aristocracy cut with your ancestor. Not because your analysis of world events bears a resemblance to reality. Dear God. I've been watching these baboons up close for years, but you, YOU, think you know more than me..."

He paused and started to breath heavy. "There were 21 kids in my class in my little village. I had five siblings. All of them destined to be farmers. Not me. No. I was the "smart" one. Extra welfare benefits then off to an elite high school, three top Gallio-Germanian universities, then the diplomatic corps. I worked my ass off--the long hours studying... that fucking dissertation... then the constant meandering bullshit of going from one hoppess meeting to the next... then my big promotion--having to sit among highest concentration of vipers In Europe... and what's the fucking prize at the end of this shit hued rainbow--I have to get lectured by a self righteous... I'd rather be a farmer!"

He then chugged his cup of rum and threw the porcelain glass to the ground, where it shattered.

He regained his composure almost immediately. "Your Majesty, I hope that answers your question." He turned to his assistant, "Ellie, this job is yours."

He grabbed a bottle of rum off of the table and walked out.



@Angliarique
@Oltremare

 

[Thaumantica]

Ports of Lexkirk

With intelligence and resounding public information reporting the withdrawal of Tianese forces the wild rush to push the Engwahlian force afloat was halted. Commitment to repairs and refitting of the submarines were then given priority, themselves returned too recently from the Gothic scare and stalk of Gutarike.

All-Engwahlian Almshouse of Lexkirk, President's Basement Center Office

After being obliterated by the artillery of Communal Revolutionaries the Imperial Servant building, a house of parliament to the Thaumantic Empire, was rebuilt in the 1930s. Demolished in 1969, rebuilt in 1991, and demolished again in 2018. The present edition of this building, now called the Engwahlian Almshouse, was busy with almsfunds from Engwahlians excited to be at the helm of the Thaumantics again. Beneath the surface was a more solid and reinforced series of basements built and maintained by Engwahlian Almskeepers since the fall of their Empire to the Nieves up north and the Cantignians way down.

Lexkirk was in an electricity rationing when Commissar Yeovil arrived on his bicycle, accompanied by an armed band of motorcycle guards who dismounted with him to enter the Almshall and descend by stairs into Engwahls concrete and iron lair.

"We should consider a second hour of rationing, Lord Commissar . . ." Wesley Roache advised, a comrade from the Saint Aelis Queen's College. "The Nieves are pledging all daylight hours through December."

Yeovil handed a guard, an intelligence officer that the Thaumanticans called Neighbors, his bicycle helmet and shook his head: "Absolutely not!" The descent took a minute but the entire time Roache bemoaned the image that sacrifice would mean in this time for Communalists.

"Call it 'An Hour for Gutarike', and fine!" Yeovil surrendered as he sat before a set of complaints from the External Service Office. At the top the Fed mission was green but beneath this a stack of yellows among most of the Meridian nations presented, another orange for Ebria and Anglia, and reds for Tianlong and Tarusa.

"We need to shake the lizard's tail and the Eagle's feather, Mister Roach, please invite the Tianese Ambassador and the Tarusan at the same time. I would see them in order of response, good, and do take this order of the Thaumantic Navy back to the Gothic on Christmas Day. We do not care for that in Engwahl, do we, so let's get ready to put one on the board for us while the Nieves are cozy and dumb."

 

[Tarusa]

Angliarique

The cargo ship had arrived at its destination, the Okhrana agent aboard in turn notified the embassy of its arrival so the cargo ship could be unloaded into the port to not draw suspicion with various containers to be loaded onto semi trailers, others onto trains, and some just unloaded to be loaded onto other ships. He would oversee the loading of the valuable ten containers to their intended destinations while the others were aboard the ship would continue on their way to their commercial destinations.

Frescania

The Spetsnaz that had setup an initial perimeter had oversaw the arrival of the federation salvage team along with the team sent by Anglia to now did nothing more than maintain their posture as a security detail around the harbor and provide any assistance as requested and facilitate to their needs. The elite team was relegated to nothing more than babysitting any personnel around the city to ensure their safety and the harbor from any intrusion. The only other part of the operation was reporting back to Kremlyov what was occurring on the island and the efforts they were overseeing.

The news however was not the good news, well it was for Kremlyov as it could up the pressure against Tianlong. The efforts so far to refloat either carrier had still been unsuccessful and the oil and fuel leaks from the old carriers had continued to grow at a moderate pace. The damages done had not only made it so the harbor was unusable for as long as the carriers were lodged into the seabed but also the fuel stores that were damaged and underwater were finding their way to the surface as their tanks were replaced with sea water no doubt.

 

[Angliarique]

Sanctum of Laurels

On a cold winter morning, in the office of the chancellor. The Chancellor sat on his lush green woollen armchair, pipe smoking his way through the various ordeals of policymaking. Dozens of despatch boxes, and hundreds of untouched papers, carpeted his once neat and pristine office desk. The chancellor was busier than ever, the tragedy at Frescania involving the escort fleet, had cast his abilities in bad light. He was to put simply, growing unfavourable to the Angliarique political class.

Arranging one of his many despatch boxes, he stumbled upon one that was black in colour. Ordinarily, his boxes would come only in dark green. A black one indicated a serious emergency, its contents had to be read with haste. So, urgently and anxiously, the chancellor opened the black box, and unravelled a file. He read in a coarse tone, the title of the document, “Operation Nemesis: Pending Authorisation.”

An impatient curiosity had sparked within him, and eagerly he read through the summary.

“Operation Nemesis, code ON1. With the arrival of the missile systems given to the Angliarique Interior Army, by our friends in Tarusan Emperor Konstantin’s retinue. It is now feasible for ‘ON1’ to be carried out. The missile systems of the containerised type, total 10 units. Therefore, the Foreign Affairs Cabinet is of the unanimous understanding, that a full or partial retaliatory strike against military assets of the Republic of @Tianlong, can now be undertaken. The mission is pending the chancellor’s approval. ON1 will be initiated immediately, subject to your approval.”

“Goodness me!” cried the chancellor. As he prepared to make the call that would begin the vengeful mission. His fingers trembled as he dialled his rotary phone. “Just one call, a single call to Henry. I can do this.” The chancellor uttered to motivate himself.

Lord Henry received the call from the Angliarique Interior Army headquarters at Port Lionheart.

Henry: I take it that you’ve read ON1. So, what are your orders?

Chancellor: I approve ON1. Execute it, you have all resources at your disposal. It is your prerogative.

The very brief call ended, and the chancellor was relieved that he pulled through. He had made a difficult choice but he was decisive, it was his redeeming quality, he thought to himself.


Port Lionheart
Angliarique Freight & Trade Hub

At midnight, when all freight workers had gone to rest in their sleeping quarters. 2 Enormous cranes dozens of stories high began loading the 10 containerised missile systems onto 4 cargo ships. Lord Henry was there overseeing the clandestine activity, in his capacity as the Crown Commander of the Interior Army. He witnessed as 4 containers were loaded one by one, onto 1 ship, CS Zodiac. And 2 container each for the next 3 ships, CS Pearldom, CS Govern & CS Darkford. The whole ordeal was soon over, nearly 17 hours after the cargo had arrived from the Empire of @Tarusa.

Lord Henry gave his orders to the respective captains of the cargo ships. These men were no ordinary freight workmen, they were hardened sailors coming from the Angliarique Rear Armada. Now, here they were, standing in front of Lord Henry, all men committed to one purpose: retribution.

“Cmdr. Feloc of CS Zodiac! Capt. Felicity of CS Govern! Capt. Neal of CS Pearldom! Capt. Dahl of CS Darkford!” Lord Henry greeted as he shook and bid farewell to the brave men. “Let their blood!” He commanded. The men responded with a united cheer.

And soon, all four cargo ships -targeting the Tianese military- entered inconspicuously into international waters in the Thaumantic Sea, blending seamlessly into the environment among hundreds of other cargo ships from everywhere else.​

 

[Angliarique]

14:00
Aboard CS Zodiac
East Thaumantic Sea

Commander Feloc of CS Zodiac, a cargo ship loaded with containerised missile systems, was sailing alongside the respective captains of the three other cargo ships which were also armed similarly. Cmdr. Feloc was patiently awaiting further orders from his superior, the Crown Commander Lord Henry, who was at that time, at Port Lionheart.

Suddenly, a mobile phone rang, Cmdr. Feloc received it with great seriousness. Only minutes before boarding, was he told that he would receive a call through secure lines, from Angliarique’s intelligence agency, the Darkford Security Bureau (DSB). Now, a softspoken agent informed Cmdr. Feloc to relay information about the prime target that they would be attempting to destroy. The man told Cmdr. Feloc, that information from Tarusa's Okhrana had informed the DSB that a Tianese carrier was somewhere nearby the Bonaventura Bay, implying that this flotilla would be a perfect target for the missiles.

So, Cmdr. Feloc informed his subordinate captains, that they were to change course at once, towards the Bonaventura Bay.

17:00
Aboard CS Zodiac
Waters near Bonaventura Bay

The flotilla of cargo ships now ventured near the Bonaventura Bay, with the knowledge that Tianese carriers lingered around these parts of the sea, Cmdr. Feloc instructed his subordinates to raise their level of alertness. Operation Nemesis, which this mission was codenamed, sought to compromise the Tianese carrier. Now, with their eyes peeled aided by radar information, the flotilla began searching for their target.

As Cmdr. Feloc stared through the glass window of the ship’s bridge, he could see as anyone would, the various merchant ships that were enroute to their ports of trade and splendour. Observing these ships, he felt the need to take a pause, this he thought could be the battlefield and anxious that harm might befall the innocent merchants, he informed his subordinate captains through radio, to alter their courses to an area with a lower density of merchant ships. This decision as Capt. Felicity of CS Govern thought, was rather odd, for it would mean straying away from the ‘cloak of invisibility’ that the merchant ships provided. So, in a hurry, the captain radioed the commander and argued so. Cmdr. Feloc always the adaptable man saw his own unreason, and informed his men not to alter their courses, the commander then praised the captain for his quick thinking.

A few minutes had passed since the conversation, still there was no sign nor indication that a Tianese carrier was around. So, Cmdr. Feloc prepared to ring back to the Darkford Security Bureau, but just as he was about to call back, he spotted a massive ship of a peculiar military appearance far out at sea, to clarify his suspicions he looked at it with his trusted military-grade binoculars. Through that he confirmed his suspicion, it was a Tianese carrier, not alone but reinforced by either destroyers or frigates or both, he could not tell, the ships were still too far away.

Now, Cmdr. Feloc turned his eyes away and asked that the war room of CS Zodiac gather. Here, 7 men stood staring intensely at a map of Bonaventura Bay and the nearby waters, the war room communicated their ideas with the captains of the other ships, who were also alerted of the sighting. So, they began.

Feloc: Gentlemen, it appears the time is now. We are working with range of 100 to 150 kilometres, so we needn’t be terribly close to the target. However, we do need to decide how we’ll exact our offensive. We have 4 ships in total. 4 boxes are on Zodiac. The rest have 2 each. Now, we must decide how many we’ll need to ensure the target is deeply compromised. Gentlemen, what do you say?”

Felicity: Perhaps to guarantee the destruction of the Tianese carrier, we should expend all arms. His Grace the Prince, would be delighted if we could carryout a successful blow. But, of course we must be willing to sacrifice ourselves and our wares for this victory. Really, it is up to us. And I dare say, that we ought to do this. For the empire!

Feloc: Yes, I agree with you, Captain Felicity. But, I seek other opinions. What say you, Captain Dahl? Wouldn’t we be much better off, if we withdraw some of our ships, perhaps to carryout future attacks? Because, we may not be dealing with just a flotilla in future, but an armada.

Dahl: I do see point, dear commander. We could take a conservative approach, and balanced one, as I’d say. To ensure that at least some damage is caused, and to appease with reason the notion that in some future, that we may need armaments, that we’ll be able to act on our words to exact another strike, it is much better to hold onto one ship. But, the question of whose?

Neal: Perhaps, I might help. I volunteer myself and my crew to withdraw Pearldom in the aim of saving some arms… Of course, I may face disciplinary action for this, but one must take up the occasional sacrifice to guarantee the national security interests of one’s homeland and birthplace. Isn’t that right, dear commander Feloc?

Feloc: Yes, I guess we’ve reached a unanimous agreement, that on the whole, the mission should be carried out by 3 ships. And that CS Pearldom should be withdrawn. I shall relay this outcome to the Crown Commander. Thank you for your time gentlemen.

The meeting ended on a good note. Thus, naturally Cmdr. Feloc, Capt. Felicity, and Capt. Dahl, were left with the responsibility of expressing the chancellor’s views about the Lizard Republic of @Tianlong. About 120 kilometres away from the carrier and its defenders, the commander gave his orders for 8 of the missile systems from the 3 ships to be activated. Meanwhile, Capt. Neal steered his ship in a direction heading back to Port Lionheart.

*Cmdr. Feloc gives orders*

*Salvo of 32 missiles fires at the carrier*

ooc: done with help from @Tarusa, thank you. And pls be patient, im still a bit lost over how war is conducted here :3​

 

[Imimoya]

Waters near Bonaventura Bay

Command bridge of the aircraft carrier, the men were busy carrying out their tasks for the afternoon shift, when suddenly, on the radar, 32 missiles appear arriving from what was a group of cargo ships heading towards a port in the area. "Missiles, 6 minutes to impact" Exclaims the radio operator. The commander turned to the boy sitting in the radio station, before personally taking over the ship's intercom. "General quarters, everyone to the battle stations, it's not an exercise".

The escort ships had also detected the arrival of the threat on their radars and, with some difficulty, they managed to identify, initially the three ships that had opened fire, but also the fourth that had changed course to return to the port from which it had come. It doesn't take long to discover that all ships originated from the same port. If she had remained in formation there was no way to distinguish her with certainty whether she was even part of the attack, but her sudden change of course, and the looming threat, changed the cards in play, even the suspicion was now more that's enough to sink it.

The ships of the fleet responded to enemy fire within 6 minutes, launching 4 missiles at the defenseless cargo ship, while the submarines headed in the direction of the origin of the attack. The missiles would have reached and sunk every single enemy merchant ship.

All interception measures had been used, but unfortunately, due to the surprise nature of the attack, only 10 of the 32 missiles had been intercepted. The rest were headed towards the fleet, the task of shooting down as many missiles as possible was in the hands of the closest defense systems, for the rest there was training and luck.

17:06

At the end of the longest 6 minutes the crew could remember, the last sound that could be heard was the intercom announcing "missile inbound, brace for shock". When the flames had been put out, first responders from the Rheinbund coast were already visible on the horizon. Only the extreme professionalism of the crew had allowed the ships to be saved, even if their operational capacity was completely compromised.

 

[Josepania]

Both Anzolo and his assistant were a bit tired looking; they had not managed much sleep and were a bit tense. Well, she was tense, sipping on the buzzy local coffee. Anzolo hadn't taken anything to drink yet, and had not parkaten in the food laid out before them. He sat, stonefaced, existing somewhere between drunkenness and a hangover.

"Well, Your Majesty..." his assistant started.

"Senator--" he interjected, grabbing a bottle of rum and filling a coffee cup to the brim, "you're a man of history. What does a the projectile from an 18th century six-pounder do to a human body?"

L'Imperatore was taken back and quite offended by the use of his other title. Anzolo's assistant nearly spat out her coffee.

"You have fallen for bad faith arguments that compare only the ability to project power as the basis of moral supremacy. It's as if it is only ethical consideration here was the relative brawn of the competing fleets. Well here's a comparison of might for you: a fleet of your ancestor's fully armed ships-of-the-line versus unarmed or civilians or and maybe a few security guards with pistols. Don't you understand--they wanted to make attacking them look ridiculous. That's why they used antique ships. True, against a fully modern fleet they looked pathetic, but they went there to do damage, and they would have. Which is why what our allies did what was necessary, and this will not be the last of such antics--as it was not the first. And if you want to learn why we are right to fear their savagery, you should ask that drug lord you hold court with--he will tell you about the brutality they impose on their own people. Democratic nations must do what is necessary. CETO has proven an effect deterrent, and powerful force for good. Note the faces of the mouths who criticize it. The faces of men and women who raped and brutalized more than a million of your, now, fellow citizens and murdered their families. Look at the naked opression."

L'Imperatore still had a stunned look of indignation on his face.

"Have you been listening to anything I've been saying you spoiled little brat?"

"What the fuck did you just say to--"

Anzolo interuped L'Imperatore, "--that you are a platinum spoon born armature philosopher who rants about bullshit conspericy theories about how much people are being exploited when you do nothing about it. Senator, you get to wave around that ridiculous title because of a deal the rest of the aristocracy cut with your ancestor. Not because your analysis of world events bears a resemblance to reality. Dear God. I've been watching these baboons up close for years, but you, YOU, think you know more than me..."

He paused and started to breath heavy. "There were 21 kids in my class in my little village. I had five siblings. All of them destined to be farmers. Not me. No. I was the "smart" one. Extra welfare benefits then off to an elite high school, three top Gallio-Germanian universities, then the diplomatic corps. I worked my ass off--the long hours studying... that fucking dissertation... then the constant meandering bullshit of going from one hoppess meeting to the next... then my big promotion--having to sit among highest concentration of vipers In Europe... and what's the fucking prize at the end of this shit hued rainbow--I have to get lectured by a self righteous... I'd rather be a farmer!"

He then chugged his cup of rum and threw the porcelain glass to the ground, where it shattered.

He regained his composure almost immediately. "Your Majesty, I hope that answers your question." He turned to his assistant, "Ellie, this job is yours."

He grabbed a bottle of rum off of the table and walked out.



@Angliarique
@Oltremare

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Ristorante Presidential, Albergo Nazionale
Palmira, Oltremare

There was a stunned silence following Anzolo's stormy departure and his vicious rant. Conte Auditore was doing his best to concentrate on drinking his coffee and hiding his expression, which hovered in a limbo between amusement and horror. Anzolo's assistant, 'Ellie' was apparently her name, was staring at L'Imperatore in pure horror, unsure of what was going to follow up such a dramatic turn. The Palmireino Emperor himself, meanwhile, had observed Anzolo's inexcusable behavior and unbelievably rude departure (without permission, no less) with cold disgust, to the point where the security agents that were hovering around the perimeter were beginning to wonder if their boss was going to demand an arrest if not execution, and were tense with anticipation.

Finally, Conte Auditore risked speaking up in a mild mannered tone, "... well met, Ellie. Please excuse us for not knowing your na-"

A hand swiftly held up by L'Imperatore wordlessly demanded silence, immediately complied with by the Conte as he went back to studying his coffee cup. The royal seemed to study Ellie like a lion stalking its prey, bringing the poor promoted assistant's stress levels to near critical levels as she forced herself to meet his gaze and not break eye contact.

"I will take your former superior's words into consideration, Signorina Ellie, and hereby confirm to the extent of my powers your formal replacement in his duties henceforth." The emphasis on 'former' was not lost on anyone in the room, though as to how deadly it was remained to be seen. "Understand this, Signorina, that regardless of the reasoning of that buffone maleducato, it does not change my view that being associated with the Tianese and CETO as a whole has become more trouble than it's worth. Regardless of morals, regardless of principles, and regardless of how imperfect the critics of such association are, public opinion is against us, and public opinion is ultimately what matters to those in power. My ancestor, as he referred to, understood this better than those back in Nuovo Porto, and I have taken those lessons to heart."

His gaze softened as L'Imperatore spoke, similar to steam being let out of a boiling kettle, and both Ellie and the Conte mirrored the relaxation of their tension as he continued, "There is a reason I and my people are unhappy: we believe the Tianese, however justified they were in maintaining order in the international world, to have blundered badly, causing a public relations nightmare that few have bothered to fix, including your superiors back in Nuovo Porto." Notably, L'Imperatore neglected admitting they were in some ways his superiors as well, but he was not in the mood to be debased any further. "Sure, they stressed they have no quarrel with the Anglisarians, but they have also supported the strike of the Tianese. Worse, I've little doubt that the Tianese will invoke Article Five of the treaty demanding a response from Radilo and, by extension, my land and my people."

He paused, "Let me be clear, Signorina Ellie, L'Impero Occidentale d'Oltremare di Palmira has no interest whatsoever in joining any conflict that is resulting from this utter disaster, and is under no obligation to join either. When you go back to Nuovo Porto you will be able to confirm the diplomatic cables I am intending to send in the very, very near future. There are no Radillan military assets in Oltremare, because my ancestor made certain of that in his negotiations with those very same aristocrats your previous superior referred to. Historically as well, there is no strategic benefit to the inclusion of Oltremarino Palmira in any conflict Radilo has found itself involved in, as to this point Radilo has had no quarrel with any entities in either the Westernesse or Occidentia, and I refuse to have that change over something as goddamned stupid as a bunch of neo-liberal democratic-new-order-obsessed Tianese getting trolled and baited into destroying a pathetic excuse of a fleet trying to take over the European Forum."

By this point L'Imperatore had mostly regained his calm, for his breathing was steady and his tone was even, though his rage was still clearly smoldering. "I trust Sua Eccellenza il Doge and his government will be wise about what is to come, but in the event they take leave of their senses, know they will do it without me, as is my Imperial Right that was fought for and won centuries ago. Will you remember this and relay this to your superiors in Nuovo Porto?" Ellie could only nod, and that drew a satisfied smile from him, leaving everyone relieved that the worst was over. "Very good."

He then sighed, looked at the remains of brunch, and settled into a petulant pout. "I am afraid I have lost my appetite. I hope you will forgive me, Signorina Ellie, but I must retire and ponder what has transpired here this morning. Please accept my apologies, and order whatever you wish from your hotel room, my treat, as small compensation for what you've witnessed here and the burden you have been shackled with. Please avoid Anzolo for as long as you can. I will have an audience with him later once we've both settled down."

With that, L'Imperatore stood and left the restaurant, leaving both Conte Auditore and Ellie standing in his wake. After a brief pause, the Conte glanced at Ellie and gave a wry, mildly sympathetic smile, "Don't worry Signorina, he likes you."

With that, he departed as well.

@Radilo

 

[Thaumantica]

Ports of the Engwahlian Navy near Lexkirk

Having refitted in these days and weeks of repose the Engwahlian Navy was prepared once more to venture out of port. Admiral Lawson, however, convinced Thaumantican Order leadership such as Yeovil to keep the carrier and destroyer just south of the Suslex Channel in the pool separating the Anglian Islands from its mainland origins. These movements were relayed first to the Federation, erstwhile allies of the Order, and then the Tarusan Empire via the dark channel of communicative peace agreed upon at the end of their short yet bloody conflict.

"Our mark remains upon the promise of territorial integrity of Angliarique," the Communal Order advised it's uneasy partner and Imperial enemy, "for in 72 hours, 72 days, or 72 years they will be our neighbor. Not the Federation, not @Tarusa, and certainly not @Tianlong."

Engwahl's submarine packs, meanwhile, ventured back north towards the Nievish Sea with Sveasund as their destination. While the world looked towards the murder and mayhem near the equator these hunter killers carried payloads for seafarers of the northern climbs. Sveasund, soon if the Order could manage, would be totally isolated by sea. Commissar Yeovil's backing from Nieveland, who lost the first battle of Sveasund, depended on this deployment and a shift of Engwahlian Marines to a potential puddle jump from eastern Gutarike to Sveasund.

All-Engwahlian Almshouse of Lexkirk, President's Basement Center Office

Commissar Linc Yeovil, prepared and sent a text message for the highest official in Angliarique available to him at the time, Prince Haglia, stating this:

"We miss you! Listen, I wanted to tell you first chum - our jets need to start patrolling the island, your pop's island. Just until we all work through this. Can't wait to have you back!"

This was Anglia's only warning as the Thaumantic Order's island Air Force began a "war game" called Operation Barley, a simulation of rushing every city and military outpost of Anglia's neighborly islands. If and when Haglia or elements of Anglia responded the Thaumanticans would assure them that "Thaumantica's mark of protection is being laid," and that "a web of safety must be wrought before Tianlong strikes again."

 

[Rheinbund]

Headquarters of the Rheinische Luftstreitkräfte

As soon as the news got around that the Tianese Navy had been attacked in the Bonaventura Bay and that Article 5 had been activated, a coded message was sent to all air force bases: "Ships of Tianlong attacked in Bonaventura Bay. Article 5 activated. Alarmstufe 3 applicable."


Actions by the Navy

As soon as the call for help came in, The Navy sent in a maritime surveillance plane to assess the situation. Immediately after that, helicopters were sent in to rescue as many drowning people as possible, as well as to drop rubber boats that automaticly inflated upon reaching the water level, so that people could climb into them.
Furthermore, an amphibious assault ship, all available support ships with hospital units, a submarine and a multirole destroyer were sent to the theatre, while two more maritime surveillance planes scanned the sea for trouble.

 

[Tarusa]

Frescania

The Imperial Fleet that had remained at sea between Frescania and Angliarique, as well as to the south of Frescania received messages from Admiral Nikolay Drozd. The Anglians had retaliated and devastated part of the Republican naval forces that had carried out the attack and an ultimatum had been issued by the Tianese whom were clearly pissed they had underestimated the small nation and it had delivered a blow with significantly greater damages than they had received themselves. The Emperor had left Admiral Drozd in charge of the operation and he was authorized to carry out the task laid out before him, and now he would exercise that authority.

He ordered the entire Spetsnaz battalion to the island from the fleet. They had now found themselves readying for a fight that might not come, but they would prepare. They would facilitate the evacuation of the remaining European Forum foreign dignitaries and staff as the first priorities off of the island and further facilitate the evacuation of the population from the island by encouraging partner nations in the endeavor to secure commercial and military flights off of the island as rapidly as possible. The city of Fortaleza would now fall under martial law until the crisis was resolved.

Kremlyov

The hotline between Kremlyov and Charleroi was once more used, notifying the Federation that the Empire was installing martial law to facilitate faster and further evacuations from the island of Frescania. A request for joint military administration of the island between the Empire and the Federation until the end of the war was included into the encrypted message, asking for a company of Federation marines from the Federation fleet assist in administering the island alongside the Imperial Spetsnaz battalion.

Kispest

Unlike the Imperial military, the Kingdoms army had stood down and began demobilization after the ascension to the throne of Konstantin. The demobilization would have to reverse course as orders were coming in for some of reserves to be kept on activation and at their commands instead of being demobilized. A certain level of preparedness was called for as nobody was sure what exactly would happen over the coming days, what was known was just a couple hours boat ride or flight away in the bay a counterpunch had been delivered by the Kingdoms allied state and the nation needed to be ready to answer the call when the ultimatum ran out.