With your powers combined

Vekaiyun Union, Levinile Announces Annexation
Reporting from the V3 Network in Vekaiyu, Ankya Ilusi

YE’LELI - After passing in both chambers of the Kivreskov by healthy margins, Premier Levinile announced that the Vekaiyun Union will be annexing territory south of the union. In a move that has been billed as “necessary” and “a step forward”, the Vekaiyun Premier announced the incorporation of “Isklevyu” and hopes other nations will follow suit in recognizing the new territory.

“We have become aware of Unonian-speaking individuals populating the territory,” she said in a televised interview carried over airwaves in Vekaiyu, Listonia, and South Dveria. “It is to this end that we wish to ensure they too are united with other Unonian-speaking territories, and are quickly given a voice in an ever-changing world. With this inclusion, citizens of Isklevyu will enjoy personal freedoms granted across the entire union, and will have adequate protection from local hostile nations. Their lands will be open to Vekaiyun trade, and it is strongly believed all nations within the union, including Isklevyu, will benefit from this cooperation.”


The Premier also announced Lso Yiskevi as the first General Secretary of The Vekaiyun Union. His duties will “address interior matters in the union’s leadership” and “ensure fluidity between member nations”. Perhaps more importantly this means Stapen Evesuni is restored as the sole premier of Listonia, ending what has been a rather confusing leadership structure in the eastern state.

Pax Draconica Council, Northern Drakkenguard State

Noi paced around the assembled parties in the Pax war room.

“This cannot stand! The northern nation begs for war, and We shall bring it to them.” an aging human said rather bruskly sitting at the rear of the table. Noi watched for objections.

“Cooler heads must prevail. We do not wish to destroy the East Pacific. Does no one here remeber the two wars with the Loopian state?” A much younger Nekomimi said with her tail twitching off to one side. She was visibly upset. “I agree that we cannot let this happen, as the Veakyun state has never been friendly to the Pax or the Pax Draconica. We should prepare for war, but be open to the possibility of negotiation. Un-assimilated people are worthelss if they are dead.”

Noi stopped and turned to address the assembled members.

“Of course we do not want a war, but we cannot rule out the use of force. Once again The East is reforming successor organizations to the EPTO of old…” She frowned at the thought. “We may get something of equal value out of the deal… I will be contacting Levinile shortly. I do not like back room deals, but I think it may be appropriate now. I will offer a trade. The Pax will officially congradulate the Union on its expansion and recognize the annex territories as sovereign to the Veakyun Union. In exchange, the Veakyun union will do the same with the acceptance of Allegheny into the Pax Draconica as the third major state.”

Noi sighed. She was getting old, with her fur graying between her ears.

“Balance is essential here. We must avoid being seen as imperialistic as we were in the past. The southern alliance with FPS and the Malaysians is at a tipping point, and it looks like we may be able to get closer to the Prussians in the north. The East is changing and we must change with it…” She paused “We are not weak. We are not fragmented. We are Pax. We are Hive. Let The East welcome us as we wish to welcome them.”

Glazovo, Kazakavo Islands
Governor’s Mansion, 5 PM Western Laiatan Time

“I understand your concerns, Herr Secretary, but we are tied to Vekaiyu through the Kerilo Accords. If you recall, we recently annexed the very islands I am speaking to you from.” Kreskov sat at a desk in the governor’s office, speaking to his Cabinet via a video call. His cabinet members were back at home in Volkgoroda, meeting with the President in their usual place.

“Herr President, it’s hard to annex something that was considered to be part of the Federation for more than one hundred years. This is a blatant expansion of the Vek state. How can we condone this?” An older lupine male asked, one of those closest to the monitor.

“Because they are protecting those who speak Unonian. At least, that’s what they claimed. I haven’t had the chance to speak with the Vek premier in a while. Regardless, we must make sure we back the Veks in this endeavor. We all know of the aspirations we have for our great Federation in this world. If we support the Veks in this type of endeavor, surely they would back us in a similar one. With the backing of the Vekaiyun Union, we could make excellent strides in uniting the lupines of this world. Yes, of course our military could do it alone. But, imagine if the Vek military were backing ours.”

A murmur of agreement and nods went around the room, played back for Kreskov through the computer speakers. “So, we will recognize this new addition to the Vekaiyun Union?” Secretary of State Yaroslav Obraztsov repeated for clarification. “That’s correct, Herr Obraztsov. I will pen a letter to the Vek premier myself, but issue a statement on behalf of the government recognizing the new Vekaiyun state. Do not put extra military resources in the area.” Kreskov’s eyes darted down to his Secretary of Defense, who gave a small nod.

“Well, that just about covers everything for today, Herr President. You’re back in Volkgoroda tomorrow, correct?” The Defense secretary asked.

“Correct, Avksentiy. I will see you all tomorrow.”

Yiskevi smiled as he sat down in front of the Vekaiyun Premier. “It appears we’ve met little resistance so far,” he began. “Listonian troops have poured over the border with no chatter from hostile states. The Second Roaming Fleet is making landings on the coast. Kerilo states have for the most part shown support. But I think we should take it one step further.”

Ikrisia leaned back in her chair. “What do you propose?”

“This union will ultimately split the continent of Yasteria in half. We will therefore control trade on the continent.”

Ikrisia smiled. “Why, that is one of the benefits to this transition, correct? No trade across the continent can subsist without Vekaiyun intervention. There are already plans for a great highway and railway system through the new state which will aid in trade across the two major bodies of water, and potentially draw other nations to use this state.”

“Very true.”

“But I am an individual who believes in supporting her allies. After completion of this endeavor, I will announce access to Yasterian Highway 1 for all member states.”

“Yasterian Highway 1?”

“Such a highway will effectively divide the continent in half. It will begin at the commerical harbor in Yur, Listonia, work down to the Burdek Lowlands, staying close to friendly nation and buffer state Smigsachenweiz. It will then work all the way down to the intact port city of Yulivuli, on the other side of the continent.” She drew on the map a highway as she spoke. “Such a move will make us the richest state on the continent, bar none.”

“We must charge all member states to the fullest extent.”

“Incorrect. They will be able to use the highway freely in return for protection at the port entrances and any escorting they can provide for merchant shipping. Since most have already agreed on aiding or protecting the new state, I see no reason to charge them access.”

The hooded figure of Lord Shadow, the only title know for the leader of the Intelligence Division, the Shadow Dragons of the Grand Duchy of Dragonia walks into a well appointed study/office of Citadel Drachen the ancestral fortress home of the Drachenberg line. Sitting down in front of his leader, Grand Duke Jeymian Drachenberg III the figure quietly waits for the Grand Duke to finish reading the report he handed him earlier that day.

The Grand Duke looks up at his subordinate; “Lord Shadow, I trust this is as accurate and up to date as your people can attain, correct?” he quietly states.

“Yes Your Grace, all our assets and Shadows we have in the areas affected by the move agree on this information. The Vekaiyun Union has annexed this territory. What we have heard out of the Pax is that they will start to negotiate first, which to be frank with you, is quite shocking from all the reports we have on the Pax Draconica.” Lord Shadow stated.

Grand Duke Jeymian looks thoughtful for a moment, sighing he tells his Lord Shadow; “Premier Levinile is a cagey administrator for the Vekaiyun Union, she will be careful, I’m sure she has this well thought out, especially the economic side of things, I’m sure you noticed via the map that Vekaiyun Union divides that continent in half with their move?”

Lord Shadow nods, “Yes Your Grace, it will be interesting to watch what response other nations in the area have.”

“Yes, indeed,” he states. “Just make sure that our assets and Shadows in the area stay safe, we will have a ‘wait and see’ response to this move by the Vekaiyun Union, if they are compromised,” pausing for a moment with a grimace, he quietly says, “they know what to do.” Sighing tiredly, the Grand Duke looks out the window over looking the beautiful vista of Azure Bay and in the distance you can just make out Weyrcliff the ancient capitol city of Dragonia. Looking back at his Lord Shadow, “Truthfully, I’m more interested in how the Pax Draconica will respond to this move.”

Nodding his head, Lord Shadow says, “Our assets in the area have always had difficulty with getting information out of the Pax nation, their Hive mentality is sometimes difficult to deal with.”

“Quite true,” the Grand Duke states. “On to other concerns, how has The First Urth Convention been going, I know my granddaughter has been keeping me up on the happenings of the other nations?”

Smiling slightly, “Lady Sophia has acquitted herself very well, which is not so shocking, considering that she was Companion trained.” Lord Shadow stated with amusement.

“Then I’m glad I overruled the Council of Lairds on this issue.” the Grand Duke smiled. “Some days I just abhor politics and other days it can be quite amusing.” Looking back to his Lord Shadow, “keep me up to date on what Vekaiyun and Pax are doing, if this escalates into a war, we might offer our services as a Neutral nation to mediate between them.” he states seriously.

“Of course Your Grace,” the Lord Shadow says as he rises, gives a bow and leaves, knowing a dismissal one when he hears it. Looking back to his Grace, he notices the Grand Duke again looking out the window to the Azure Bay with a thoughtful look on his face. Whispering quietly to himself the Lord Shadow says, “May The Great Mother Gaia’s blessings be upon you and guide you Grand Duke Jeymian Drachenberg.”

“So what do you propose?”

“It will cost them a lot.” he said looking out the window of the boardroom. Other suits were sitting still, waiting for the elaboration. “Introducing governmental facilities in a new region is a time consuming, difficult, and costly endeavor enough. Without the medial backlash that will surely come if not from other countries, from the non-unonian population, I mean.” He said lighting up a cigarette.

“Yeah, my contacts in Smigsachenweiz state, that general population is nervous, especially since there is a lot of Unonians there too. But the Duke is too much of a sycophant to do anything against the Union.” said the lady in a gray jacket checking something on her AR glasses.

“Exactly” he puffed “So we should step in offering to help in Isklevu. Whatever is needed, connecting the roads, electricity, managing paperwork. Let’s explain them that whatever they need to be done, we will do better. And then we state them the price, so attractive that they have to accept it, especially since they know the quality of our work!”

A moustached suit stood up “How will it be profitable for us? I won’t agree on charity!”

Smoking suit looked at him with a smirk. “Of course the initial price will be still profitable for us. We gonna see how much they haggle. But look at the bigger perspective - this is the perfect occasion to expand our business there. When we open shops, and factories and all, there, we want people to like us. So if we paint an image of us as warm-hearted and yet solid company they will trust us with their money. It’s just a good PR. In the long run, we will make millions out of this deal.”

The moustache looked at him squinting. “Ok, that makes sense. What else?”

“Send 5% off offers for military equipment to all the nations on the continent. And tell the PMCs to cut their prices a little bit. Maybe someone will decide it’s time to get better jets, or tanks or whatever, after this situation. Oh, and Julia,” he said turning to the lady with AR glasses. “You said that people of Smigsachenweiz are worried about this situation, yeah?”

“Yeah, they’re probably gonna start stockpiling cans, water, gas and all kind of crap. I already sent the information to rise the prices a little bit, but not noticeably. Oh also we started promoting those films in which we have a cut - when people are worried they tend to escape into fantasy”.

“Good thinking!” he said walking around the boardroom, as he always did when he was excited. He could feel the payrise. “But let’s also start some campaign there to start lowering their concerns. And add it to the deal we propose to Vekaiyu, maybe that will be the bargaining card with which we win this transaction” he turned to the moustached suit. “You ready?”

“Yeah, I’m sending the info upstairs. They will take care of this, and probably in 3 to 4 hours, the deal will already by in Vekaiyun Premier hands.”

‘Right on, Jay this could be the deal that will place you in the history of Serenitech’ thought the smoker, stubbing out the cigarette. His eyes were shining from the excitement.

One of the Grand Pacific’s most advanced warships is currently in the North Keigan Sea conducting air defense and artillery drills in preparation for operations in support of Vekaiyun annexation of Isklevyu, the Defense Directorate announced early Saturday morning.

The 13,000-tonne Princeton-class cruiser Redgrave diverted from a scheduled Fleet Week call at Port Sovereign to conduct the training excercises for the next two weeks in an unspecified area of the North Keigan Sea.

The ship is one of the latest class of air defense cruisers centered around the world-class HELIOS battle management system.

Redgrave set sail from the Grand Pacific naval base in Port Silvies, Seneca on Nov. 20 and is due to make a port call in Diego Viana before joining the Ranger Battlegroup near Drakkengardi waters.

The Grand Pacific entered into a military alliance with Vekaiyu and several other nations last summer in Kerlio, Vekaiyu. While the pact was lauded for expanding international cooperation and interoperability, detractors have criticized the mutual support clause that requires the nation to support offensive operations such as the annexation of Isklevyu, seemingly in juxtaposition with VICTOR ideals.

**Private communication

“Levinile my friend, I hope all is going well in the East!” Noi said smiling, showing her teeth slightly. “I think you know why I called. Really now, Isn’t it my job to annex surrounding nations?”

Noi chuckled.

“We both know where this would go normally, but I have a proposal for you. I doubt you want war, and the Pax officially recognizing your sovereignty over the newly annex territories would be no small thing in helping quell any resentment that may come. I propose a small trade of favors. I will officially recognize your territory in exchange for the Veakyun Union’s recognition of the addition of Allegheny to the Pax Draconica as an equal party state. They are a long time ally, and I doubt you will see much difference in your western border.”

— Begin quote from ____

Executives Break Silence on Vekaiyu Expansion
VISTA and Aelitia express concern for future of trade

…On Friday, VISTA Commissioner Vanessa Rougeden met the newly minted Presidential Inquirer for VISTA Affairs. The Pair had a short joint statement on the commitment to the VISTA Articles in the Coalition Charter which was followed by an intense question period. The meeting took place in the press gallery of the temporary VISTA Executive Offices in Visaelitia.

…Despite regular political niceties the pair seemed at odds for most of the night. Questions posed by the press unveiled divisions on a variety of questions. Inquiries about a flat VISTA tariff rate policy, International investment protections, and the extent to which economic sanctions could or should be used on VISTA violators were clearly politically charged. The this last question -arguably most of note- elicited a similar response from both Executives. The Question:

“To what extent are the Vekaiyun expansion plans going to impede international trade over the continent, and what does this mean for VISTA member states; specifically the Republic of Really Nice Hats?”

…Hawley spoke first, unlike most of the other answers. “Due to the lack of statement on behalf of the Vekaiyun expansionists, the implications could be dire. The possibility of restricted access to continental transport is of particular concern to the Dominion, as well as the addition of yet another Old-Continent presence in the waters to the East. Though the Dominion has not had any negative experience with the expansionists, Aelitia would consider any threat to its territorial sovereignty to be gravely serious. That said, the Dominion is willing to engage in relations with Vekaiyu to sort out any unknowns surrounding this development.”

…Rougden slowly nodded throughout the response of the Inquirer. “To address the impact to VISTA member states, the economic implications of a transport monopoly could be dire. Though there are alternatives to traditional land transport, this has been the primary mode of trade over that continent. VISTA’s interests are in the mutual development of its members in the name of fair economic practices; and that includes sovereignty concerns insofar as it facilitates trade.”

…It seems the Executives were in agreement that this expansion could constitute a threat to international commerce and sovereignty. These joint answers are considered to be the first insight into the back room discussions going on surrounding the recent developments. This insight could inform the actions we see taken by Administration over the following couple of days.

Note…Following the First Urth Convention, President Melodom appointed special Inquirers for Coalition, VISTA, and VICTOR organizational affairs. It is the job of Inquirers to assume the duties of the Office of President (under supervision of the President and an Inquiry Board) in specific policy areas, and it would seem that these new portfolios will focus on the compliance with international and ensuring that the Dominion Policy Outlook is applied on Aelitian delegations [right]http://www.macleans.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Premiers_top.jpg
Jessica Hawley (left), newly appointed Presidential Adviser for VISTA Affairs,
meets with VISTA Commissioner Rougeden (right)


Map of Vekaiyu (red), and Reallt Nice Hats (North)
Red outlining continuous continental border,
Red shading in expansion announcement
[/right]

— End quote

Ikrisia had not spoken to the Pax leader in quite some time, but the odd appearance of the individual in her screen did not strike her odd. She had lept over the uncanny valley from the tame to the bizarre on many occasion with past instances.

“I am sorry,” Ikrisia began, breaking from her Unonian tongue, “But we cannot recognize such a pact, as we are still in league with the nation. However, should the Pax wish to lay claim to the acquired northern Tasselvaltan lands which Vekaiyu watched with disdain, I am certain we would be willing to look the other way in exchange for the same formalities.”

The Yastoy Commodore of the Vekaiyun Second Roaming Fleet, Yensey Naligova, was made aware of the pending arrival of the craft from British Grand Pacific. He felt like giving him a call, but the fact was his accent was probably too thick for that. It had been a while since he had used his English skills, and usually he had an aid to help with translation, but he felt like contacting him personally.

— Begin quote from ____

RAdm Sherman E. Burkhalter,

Greetings. My name is Yensey Naligova. I am of command of Yastoy Commodore of the Vekaiyun Second Roaming Fleet. I look forward to arrival of your vessel in time. We have formed perimeter around coastal side and begun general landing procedure. We have found intact ports that may be useful for vessels. I am certain Nevikalu will have more to update.

Regards,
Yensey Naligova

— End quote

— Begin quote from ____

Yensey Naligova,

I am pleased the honor of supporting Kerilo allies has been bestowed upon me. May this be the first of many fruitful adventures between our nations. Prussian presence may prove problematic to supply lines. I have ordered Ranger to proceed with amphibious support and diverted Keigan Sea to establish Grand Pacific naval authority over Wolfram and Chandler atolls. Please advise of Drakkengardi naval assets in the region.

S.E.Burkhalter, RA NGP

— End quote

Hive Net

— Begin quote from ____

Good morning, and welcome to your morning news!

Making headlines today, is the announcement of the addition of a third great nation to the Pax Draconica. An agreement has been struck between the Pax Draconica and key officials within the Allegheny state to add the nation to the Pax Draconica. Unlike the Vassal state of Dovakhan, Allegheny will be added to the union with the same rights and privileges of the Pax and Drakkenguard. Officials with the union assembly of commerce and defence both agree that the addition of the Allegheny state would be a great boon for all involved. As many know, the Allegheny are heavily invested in cybernetics. Adding their research along with the specialties of the south will create a breakthrough in cybernetic technologies, along with massive trade within the Pax Draconica itself. The commerce division also hopes that the Allegheny, which are much more open to the rest of TEP, will allow trade to begin to flow in and out of the PAx Draconica once again, further enriching all invovled.

In other news:

The Drakkenguard Mechanized core will be moving north to assist the key parties in Allegheny in ensuring a smooth transition to the Pax Draconica.

The Pax Draconica is evaluating the annexation of new territories by the Vakaiyu. The government has remained silent on the issue so far.

Noi has announced a general hiring quota. She is rumoured to be reopening the nuclear forges and manufacturing facilities in the east territories. Remember to request assignment before a general draft has to occur.

DeSalination plants in the Pax city of Hiakruton have failed, and the city is requesting the emergency requisition of fresh water from the Drakkenguard state.

The Pax Drakkonica has finally finished putting together the national hockey team. Featuring the best of the Pax Draconica as a whole, the union is fervrently awaiting the start of the season.

And now for the weather…

— End quote

Edit. Pax Cannot format good.

— Begin quote from ____

To the officials of Pax Draconica

As you know, Allegheny is home to many factories, and business centres of our corporation. We are helping with mining and excavating many resources in its borders. One of the founders of Serenitech Corporation came from Allegheny.

Therefore, in the light of the recent events we are worried about the state of our property, and the ability to continue our activity and business, on the rules that were stated before with the government of Allegheny.

We are also wondering about the possibility of acquiring through a business transaction some of those lands. Government of Allegheny wasn’t willing to those kind of deals before citing the national unity, but since they are now more open to cede their independence, maybe there will be some possibility of a deal.

Note that this would also be a good opportunity to begin some trade agreements between our corporation, and Pax Draconica.

Also note that termination of our agreements with Alleghenian government, on such short notice and without adequate compensation, would be a very unfair treatment, that would move Pax Draconica even further from friendly terms with the nations of the region, and will have economical repercussions on the global market.

We hope we can come to some satisfactory decisions for both sides

Iwona Lee
Managing director of Alleghenian division of Serenitech Corporation

— End quote

— Begin quote from ____



Director Hera in a video conference with squadron commanders earlier this week.
Naval Director Katherine Hera announced a fixed-price $437 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity construction contract to Serenitech Corporation for the new shore facilities at G.P. Naval Support Station, Chandler Island. An additional contract valued at $63 million is under consideration for N.S.S. Wolfram Atoll.
Director Hera describe the building projects on the recently annexed islands as “vital to the Republic’s security” and a “national commitment to our allies.”


Navy engineers raise a communications mast at N.S.S. Candler Island.
Construction has already started at N.S.S. Chandler Island. The new base will be home to nearly 3,000 personnel and possess considerable capabilities. A pair of 10,000 foot (3,050 meter) runways, bomber shelters, and storage for 1.5 million gallons (5.68 million liters) of aviation fuel will dominate the island. A deepwater pier and port facilities capable of accommodating a Cascadia aircraft carrier will allow strategic flexibility, and the large lagoon will provide anchorage for twenty-eight battlegroup warships. Republic Marine forces plan to anchor eight pre-positioned logistic vessels.


A successful VLS launch aboard Redgrave.
GPNS Redgrave had been awarded high marks for efficiency and readiness this week during combat exercises in the North Keigan. Defense analysts have speculated whether or not the ship’s mission will change from area air defense to commerce raider with the announcement of Allegheny aligning with Pax Draconica. No official statement has been issued by the directorate.

— End quote

[edit_reason]turkey coma[/edit_reason]

“We must do nothing,” Lso Yiskevi warned.

“Absolutely not,” Ikrisia replied. “We outlined our conditions, and they rejected them. The entire state is about to be occupied - if we allow this to continue, we will not only lose a valuable trading partner, but an ally in CINTEP.”

“You seemed rather accepting of a partial annexation, though.”

Ikrisia sighed. “The Tasselvaltan lands mean nothing to me. The international community was in an uproar when we sided with Listonia on their independence in 2009, but accepted the dual annexation of Tasselvalta with barely a whisper. One can get upset at such bias, but that’s not the point. If Allegheny loses that conquest, it means nothing to me and renders the state more reliant on Vekaiyu and the rest of Kerilo for trade.” She paused and looked up from her notes. “And you are getting rather preachy for someone who has little to no business in Vekaiyun affairs. I believe it is time for you to return to Ye’leli and work with other union members to determine an appropriate step to deal with this conflict.”

Lso sighed “Yes, milady.”

Ikrisia glared at him. “I was the one who put you in power in the first place, Lso. I felt I made a good decision at the time. I also saved Listonia during that dark time. You know very well where I stand in all of this.”

“Of course.”

“Leave me and the Minister of the Interior. I will draft a quick response and plan my moves accordingly based on their response. Even the Pax know such a move is unacceptable.”

Vanse Iliskalu arched an eyebrow as Lso left. “Don’t tell me we’re the bulldogs of the continent now.”

Ikrisia shrugged and switched on her holographic computer as a LED keyboard lit up her desk. “It is a role we were created to fulfill. That and I don’t believe Allegheny would readily accept such a move, unless forced. I know how their state works. They arrested Selvala McEva for much less. A silent Allegheny is even more concerning. No, this is not correct at all.”

— Begin quote from ____

Noi,

Vekaiyu cannot accept a total annexation of Allegheny. This is aggression toward our neighbor, trade partner, and ally. This bold move is one we cannot support. Vekaiyu expects Pax Draconia to withdraw its claim to historically Alleghenian lands. This is through the understanding that trade into Pax Draconia and relations with other foreign nations are prime concerns. If such claims are not reversed, I cannot promise pacifism from myself or other foreign leaders.

Should you wish to engage dialog over the subject between Vekaiyu and other leading nations, I am certain we can exchange formalities.

With best,
Premier Ikrisia Levinile of Vekaiyu

— End quote

Vanse continued to mull over the report. “They said they are considering our annexation.”

“That’s to keep us quiet. We have more claim to that land than the complete annexation of Allegheny, and they know that. But they’ve chosen a different route and are attempting to call it a mutual agreement. We just need to find out more from Allegheny itself. In the meantime, update the allies of Kerilo.”

“And CINTEP?”

Ikrisia shook her head. “It appears as if it has been compromised.”

Capital Building, Weyrcliff - Council of Lairds Chamber …

“I have called this Council into session, because news of the Pax Draconica reached our ears today,” began the Grand Duke of Dragonia, “the Pax have decided to fully annex ALL of Allegheny.”

With that statement, the chamber erupted into much talking between the various Lords. Letting them talk for a good ten minutes, the Grand Duke raps on the solid ironwood table to get their attention. The Lords looking up to their ruler, most of them don’t flinch, but a few do, when standing there next to his Grace was the hooded figure of the Lord Shadow, who was not in the room to begin with.

Smiling slightly, “We have asked Lord Shadow to come and inform us of what his Shadows have found out,” the Grand Duke stated.

Bowing slightly, “Your Grace, Council of Lairds,” the figure started, “as his Grace stated earlier, the Pax Draconica has decided to annex all of Allegheny, while nominally allowing the Vekaiyun Union to annex it’s own desired territory. Noi of the Pax Draconica has stated anyway.” Pausing for a moment to collect his thoughts, “Premier Ikrisia Levinile of the Vekaiyun Union is in an uproar over it. We know in one of the earlier negotiations, she has told the Pax Draconica they could have the Tasselvaltan lands only. At this time it appears that the Pax Draconica is doing what it has always done in the past, taking what they want.”

“So it will be war?” asks one of the Lords.

“Possibly, it will escalate into a war, for the Vekaiyun Union is not alone. The Republic of the Grand Pacific has moved into the area, taking over or ‘annexing’ as the put it, the Chandler Islands and Wolfram Atoll. The Grand Pacific has had a military alliance with the Union and several other nations since last summer, they have come to help Vekaiyun out if need be. The Grand Pacific is gearing up for a conflict.” Looking around the room to all the Lords, then turning to his liege lord, he bows slightly.

The Grand Duke surveys the room, noting all the Lords expressions or lack there of. “Several things to begin with,” he started, “One, We are going to offer to mediate here in Dragonia a peaceful settlement to this issue. As a Neutral nation, and far from the influence of that region, hopefully, diplomacy will prevail. If not, then, what Lord Shadow has informed me of awhile ago. We have assets in the regions. Allegheny being one of them, their cybernetic technology is about a decade better than our own at this time.”

Pausing to take a sip of water from a crystal glass. “Make no mistake Lords and Ladies, Dragonia can no longer stay out of the world views. We can no longer afford to sit back and let the world go by us. We need to be out there, be known. Hopefully this chance to diplomatically end a possible conflict before it even starts, will bring Dragonia into the nations of the worlds eyes.”

“Dragonia has much it can teach the world, I’ve done the research, We are one of the best, if not The Best on this planet at genetic manipulation of the human genome. We have practically wiped out all known diseases in our Nation!” he states passionately." Looking at his Council, smiling slightly, “Dragonia is also one of the leaders in how to be Eco-friendly with our environment. We have the technology, lets try and help clean up the world. Mother Urth needs our help.”

“We will draft a letter to both the Vekaiyun Union and the Pax Draconica, offering Dragonia as a voice to mediate between them.” the Grand Duke simply stated, “now before closing out this Council, is there any other issues that can not wait until our normal session? … … No? … … Very well then, good day to you all my Lords and Ladies.” The Grand Duke rises up, and the rest of the Council as well, they bow as their liege lord leaves the chamber.

[hr]

— Begin quote from ____

From the Desk of Grand Duke Jeymian Drachenberg III

To: Premier Ikrisia Levinile of Vekaiyu and Leader Noi of Pax Draconica

Greetings and Salutations,

 The Grand Duchy of Dragonia wishes to offer Our services as a Neutral nation, to mediate between your respective nations.  We ask you to think long and hard on your decisions, for conflict between your nations would destabilize, not only the economy of the region, but war will also have an environmental impact on this Urth.  Think of the innocent people of your respective nations, do you really wish to see your people dying over a conflict, when you could have had a peaceful settlement between your nations to resolve this?

 Again, I offer Dragonia as a Neutral nation, to mediate between your nations.  Please consider this offer before open conflict happens between your nations.

Thank you,

— End quote

[note]I tried to find what the leader of the Pax Draconica title was but NSwiki link was down for maintenance?[note]

OOC

Smigol - http://s2.zetaboards.com/The_East_Pacific/topic/5208409/1/#new

Noi’s Title would technically be Hive Mother, but it is rarely used. She is simply Noi.

I haven’t had time to fully flesh it out, as I have been at work for the past two days straight, but Pax is attempting a coup with a few members of the Allegheny military. Will post more tonight, probably around midnight.

It was 3am. The emergency meeting was called, much to a aging President Hunter’s dismay.

“The Pax have decided to annex all of Allegheny.”

“The hell?” muttered the President, more upset about being woken up this early then the situation itself.

“We cannot allow this”, he finally said after a long silence.

“Say this goes to hell in a handbasket, how readyu are we for a war with Packlivania?”

“Just about as ready as anyone else; not very. The strategy would have to be to rush Dovakhan and keep the momentum. There can be no getting bogged down.”

“And navy?”

“The railgun prototypes are mountable to our Miles Prower destroyers, they are designed for this kind of situation and, in theory, will punch a hole clean through a Pax mothership. But we don’t have a lot.”

“Very well, We will attempt the diplomatic options at our disposal. Have these plans made, verified, and re-checked before we get a response.”

“Yes, Mr. President.”

— Begin quote from ____

Noi,

Although we have retained peaceful and prosperous relations, these are now at threat. It is always the goal of our communications to be short and to the point, so I will follow suit: While we respect your intentions involving Tasselvalta, a move against Allegheny itself will not be permitted and may be seen as a act of war against our own, We trust the intentions of this action can be achieved through Tasselvalta alone, and not through Allegheny, we, however, will not be capable of standing by while Allegheny is seized.

Rob Hunter.

— End quote

Ikrisia checked her emails again prior to going for a relaxing dive in her fish tank. It’d probably be the last time she checked for the evening, given the fact that nothing major would probably occur, and if something did, at least a dozen or so officers would be there at a drop of a hat.

She opened a letter from Drachenberg and read it thoroughly.

— Begin quote from ____

Grand Duke Jeymian Drachenberg III,

I appreciate your kind offer. I am attempting to solve this issue with sound diplomacy. The desire is never war, but war is sometimes necessary, and what is necessary is not always easy. Should we require it, I may bring the issue forward to the international community as a means to develop a peaceful solution. But that will require time.

Regards,
Ikrisia Levinile
Premier of Vekaiyu

— End quote

She stood from her chair and made sure everything in her immediate vicinity was organized. After taking a few steps toward the door, she rolled her eyes and grabbed her Yemsev Nextbook. It was water proof, after all.