Utman-Lakhzov Conflict

[Achkaerin]

You have got to be frakking kidding me Kakashi thought as he walked into the command tent in the morning. The roar of jets overhead and the sound of missile launch's against Khaliniz positions
"The Hanor surveillance report is in - when do you want to look at it?" Sarah asked
"I don't think we're going to have the chance to now." Kakashi said "Lakhzovian Government has evicted Achkaerinese Troops."
"You're kidding." Sarah said
"Wish I was but this is Kadassa and the man's never wanted us here at least not any longer than he had to tolerate us for." Kakashi said "How long to get everyone out?"
"Twenty Four hours for everyone." Sarah said "But Waterloo Yellow reports that refugee's have started arriving."
"I'm ordering the withdrawal." Kakashi said "And I'm going to make this known to the Lakhzovian government. We do this our way, distribute the order and find our friend's senior officer and bring them to me."
"Sir?" Sarah asked
"Riddle me this Sarah, who do we have here and who does that order evict?" Kakashi asked, Sarah thought for a moment and smiled
"Very clever sir." Sarah said "I'll get right on it."
"And someone get me on the line with the Moreland CO." Kakashi said

A few minutes later Wing Commander Dawn Jennings had gathered the Achkaerinese pilots together as well as Major Mishima from the armoured corp.
"Ok here it is Kadassa has decided he wants us out, we're going to comply but we're ensuring a safe evacuation of Achkaerinese forces first. So here's the game plan, increased bombardment of target areas within Waterloo Red from land and air, given we're left with having to get our people out with helicopter airlift we need to keep enemy positions pinned down, remember intel indicates Khaliniz troops in this area have more AT than AA weapons. Bumblebee's and Butterfly's will fly to Waterloo Yellow and drop off substitute personnel and humanitarian supplies there's a large enough area there to land, they pick up refugee's and bring them out. As we get later into the day we'll start picking up our people and get them out, standard fighter escort per group of helicopters. Snow Owl will be up top with two tankers. Lakhzovian Government has been informed that we are complying with their announcement but that it will take time to do and that we will not tolerate their interference in this. Once all ground troops have withdrawn we pull our air cover at the discretion of Squadron Commander Frost. Final ceasefire order delegated to Major Mishima." Dawn said "Good luck and may the Braves fly with you."

Waterloo Yellow was the point a decent and reasonable distance from where troops were fighting in the mountains (Waterloo Red) the two perimeter positions formed in line with each other were sought of like the inner and outer boundaries of a rin doughnut. Major Craig Roberts was the senior officer at Waterloo Yellow and the sheer shock of the revocation order had been compounded by the arrival of the first Utman refugee's but at least it appeared that the higher up's had a plan and given that Kakashi Fuji was the officer commanding there was more than enough reason to trust this. As the troops he was in command of went about providing humanitarian assistance against the backdrop of increased bombardment the first Bumblebee landed on the ground, the rear ramp lowered and the passengers disembarked bringing a chuckle from Craig
"Oh very good sir." he said, he approached the senior officer and started briefing his replacement.

Back in Somerset, Kakashi looked up as the person he'd asked for entered the tent with Sarah. Such a simple solution wasn't it? His good friend Rhyth Icerider always said that in situations you had to call, fold or raise. As one might imagine she tended to sit down and play poker with her troops from time to time. Calling Kadassa would have been too risky, the job was to save lives not go toe to toe with the Lakhzovian military, and it wasn't his nature to fold either though the withdrawal might look it. Instead Kakashi had gone for the raise option, the revocation singled out Achkaerinese troops ordering their withdrawal but it said nothing of the other forces committed - East Moreland, Ui Cenneslaig and of course Rokkenjima's. So it was time to metaphorically put the squeeze on and with other international developments the situation was even more magnified.
"Captain Culshaw would you get Commodore Rowe a drink please." Kakashi said
"Certainly." Sarah said
"Glad you could help us out Commodore." Kakashi said "Your troops will be briefed as we hand ground presence over to them. I apologize that you're having to do our leg work as well as your own but it would seem that Kadassa wants to try the outlandish."

OCC- use of Rokkenjiman troops agreed with Beatrice.

[DaveIronside]

Brigadier Kelly walked into the briefing room in Illumic Command, it was full of a range of people from all three services from East Moreland and Ui Cenneslaig all sat drinking cups of coffee and pouring over briefing packs. The old officer made his way to a polished wood podium bearing the crest of the East Moreland military and waited a few moments, the rooms general mumble of conversation continued until he raised his voice in a manner that would have made a Drill Sergeant proud. The room descended rapidly into order with each person taking a seat facing the front where a large video screen was now turned on, being operated by one of the Brigadier's more tech savvy adjutants. "Welcome everyone to the briefing for Operation Swiftsure" he opened the large folder in front of him.

"The situation is that we have lost the potential for future deployments by the CTO in regards to the Lakhzov and Utmen conflict. This is for a number of factors, the cut off of roads because of rock fall, the slow deployment of support forces and the reaction to the Sarin Gas attack. We currently have approximately 200, two-zero-zero, members of a combined Cenneg and Moreland task force at the airfield here." he shone a laser pointer to the map. "Meanwhile we have active Khalniz Brigade forces in that region and a runway that is considered serviceable for heavy aircraft." He noted how several of the officers in the room where frantically scribbling as he spoke preparing themselves for the inevitable re-briefing of their underlings.

"The mission is simple, we go in, get the guys from the airfield and bring them to this point." he waved his pointer in a circle around an area of flat land about 5km inside the Lakhzovia and Somerset border. Once there the team will become a refugee collection centre, they'll offer what medical care they can and look at corridors for extraction which are likely to be tricky. The secondary mission is to cause as much damage to the Utmen combat operations as possible." He wondered why so many people jotted stuff down as he had a copy of what he was saying for each of them, but remembered that many would be adding their own thoughts and ideas as they went just as back in his younger days he had too.

"This is how we will execute it." he said confidently as though nothing could go wrong while at the back of his mind he remembered the old adage, "No plan survives first contact with the enemy", that thought made him shiver as he knew like with any combat operations there was always a chance that some of his boys wouldn't come back in one piece. That was something he'd come to terms with having been on enough of those ops to know likely some senior officer at some point had thought a similar thing about him. "What we will do is have a Morelander Spotter overfly the area, it will be closely followed by a flight of six Claithan aircraft from UC, they will immediately engage any and all targets identified by the Spotter, this will ensure that the SAM in the area is spammed with targets and has to expose itself if it wishes to engage as it can't hit all six simultaneously, chances are the Spotter will likely be able to offer jamming of electronic systems as well giving the aircraft protection. Precisely ten minutes after the first aircraft arrive on target three STOL Cargo aircraft will touch down making a grassfield landing. Each will take 30 troops off, the remaining ground forces will be given permanent air cover by a force of around 12 East Moreland aircraft giving close air support, again they will engage any and all targets considered a threat. A further ten minutes on will see the second wave of STOL Cargo aircraft will touch down and bring all remaining troops out, sadly they will be destroying the four strike vehicles that went in with them." An audible groan went around the room from those Red Legionnaires present, the little buggy type vehicles were loved by the unit and in short demand already. "I know, we'll buy you some new toys soon I promise" he grinned as he continued. "While this exfil is being carried out three Jekar's Chariot bombers will be hitting targets across Utmen controlled territory, essentially any bridges, depots and other pieces of infastructure in the North. The hope being that this will slow any movement of the Utmen towards the safe zone we hope to create, finally a group of Oiche tactical bombers from UC will be targeting smaller targets likely to be heavier units in combat with the Lakhzovia regular military." he looked around the room. "Any questions?" he saw just shaking heads and so bundled his folder together. "Collect your gear, wheels up for the first planes in one hour" and with that he was gone.

Around three hours later Wing Commander James Mendham of the Royal East Moreland Air Force bounced his STOL cargo plane onto the turf. They were aircraft generally more accustomed to operating in the hills of the Alps where often runways where a little short but they were ideal for this operation, the ability to operate off grass and still climb quickly a bonus in an area perhaps with a SAM system present. The aircraft before him had fired at a few targets but they had no time to do a proper damage assessment. Even before he brought the aircraft to a halt he saw a line of troops scurrying his way as his loadmaster dropped the rear ramp. "Lets go! Lets go!" the loadie bellowed over the din of the prop engines as he counted the men in, some looked as though they could do with a good feed but otherwise looked in not to bad condition. "Thirty" he counted into his mouth piece letting Mendham know the last man was aboard, the pilot pushing the throttle forward even as the loadie began closing the door, the aircraft accelerated quickly bouncing slightly on the slick grass before its nose swept up towards the blue sky causing the green suited loadmaster to cling on tight to a strap, all in all they'd been on the ground less than two minutes." As they climbed the loadie motioned they should strap in and looked out the window seeing a fighter aircraft sweep onto their wing to act as a missile decoy if the need should arise.

"Three away" Cpt. Robbie Peacock of Red Legion radioed in as he watched the first half of the force vanish, he'd have felt nervous if it hadn't have been for the constant buzz of aircraft over the airfield with the red or blue of the two CNN nations. It would be a long ten minutes before the buzz of six props signalled it was time for him to go. Earlier that day they'd set the strike vehicles for blowing as Peacock counted off all the men before wandering over towards the waiting cargo plane, as he walked onboard he pressed the red detonator switch and heard a satisfying series of "BOOMS!" behind him as one after the other the charges exploded that they'd put in the fuel tanks. He looked out the window as the aircraft whizzed down the grass field and into the sky, a series of raising smoke plumes showed where the vehicles were burning, but then at the end of the row was one sat untouched. "Bollocks" he muttered to himself before climbing the steeply climbing fuselage to speak to the pilot. Words were exchanged before a plane giving the troops close air support zoomed in low strafing the vehicle in an ironic scene of blue on blue destruction.

It was around a forty minute flight further North to where the aircraft touched down and under a more assured network of air support the team began establishing a remote base of operations.

Across the North of Lakhzovia bridges between the CNN forces and the Utmen where blown by the Jekar's Chariots, it would effectively pin the Utmen between the now destroyed infrastructure and the Lakhzovia armed forces. The UC tactical bombers meanwhile took on targets of opportunity where and when they presented themselves. 

[Lakhzovia]

Tebruk, Transmecuria

The LDF advance along Highway 4 had been rapid with the Khaliniz Brigades being forced in to flight, that was until they reached the city of Tebruk which due to its strategic location the Khaliniz had decided to fortify and embed themselves within. Having slowed the Lakhzov advance the Utman had attempted to establish a new defensive front line along the river Kinere.

Commander Shoshanit of the LDF sat with his men in their mobile command centre pouring over maps of the surrounding area where known Khaliniz Brigade positions had been marked, scattered around them were the original aerial reconnaissance photos and explanatory notes from military intelligence. The situation was grim; the militants had deliberately embedded themselves in the densely populated town, with snipers and machine gun posts utilising schools, clinics and apartment blocks as cover. It would be impossible to advance further while the the town remained under Khaliniz control, and at present a river crossing would be near suicidal.

"I think we are agreed what has to be done." said Shoshanit resignedly to his subordinates.

"Yes Sir. But if I may speak freely?" asked one

"Granted" said Shoshanit   

"I think we should provide an evacuation warning to the civilians before we launch the attack, the last thing we need is baseless accusations of war crimes levelled against us."

"The problem there is that if we provide such a warning then it will rob us of the element of surprise and ultimately result in a greater loss of life. The Khaliniz are determined to use civilians are human shields; signalling to them an impending attack will only result in them taking measures to increase the civilian casualty numbers." interjected another Officer.

Shoshanit raised his hand for silence before appearing to mull the argument over in his head "No. The Captain is right, we cannot launch an attack without at least warning those civilians that are able to escape. If the result is that more of them die than would otherwise be the case then at least we will be able to pin the blame solely where it belongs, on the Khaliniz."

An hour later the warning was broadcast on all local civilian frequencies that a major LDF assault was imminent and that civilians had until midnight to evacuate. As it happened the deadline came and went without the feared assault, nor did it come as the first rays of dawn broke over the hills.

By 07:00 civilians who had fled to the surrounding fields began to cautiously return to their homes and businesses presuming that the threatened attack had been called off. It was then that the bombs began to fall as the LDF began a coordinated aerial and artillery barrage of Khaliniz positions throughout the town.

The barrage continued for hours before pausing while columns of tanks began to push their way into the ruined town behind which infantry took cover as they advanced. Occasionally a fire team would break off to secure a building or strategic point. As the advancing troops reached the dense warren of the old city they came under sustained heavy fire from Khaliniz positions concealed within the buildings that lined the narrow streets forcing them to retreat back to safety.

Minutes later LAF jets resumed their bombing runs targeting suspected positions in the old city. Within an hour the heart of the town had been reduced to rubble and the infantry began their advance again, this time with minimal resistance. Within 24 hours they would have complete control of Tebruk and be free to continue their advance on Kinere.

Route 28, Transmecuria

The news of the assault on Tebruk had managed to reach the streams of refugees who had been streaming towards the designated humanitarian corridors in the north west of the country. Learning that the route was cut off by heavy fighting with a new front opening along the Kinere river the Utman fleeing before the dreaded Hand of Emet advance diverted north to try to reach the Provincial Highway 28 passage through the mountains, the last remaining route to the Somerset border available to them.

Thousands had made it in to the pass on foot trekking the increasingly steep winding road through the mountains. A day in to the crossing the head of the refugee column made the grim discovery that the road ahead had been blocked by a heavy rockfall at a section where the road clung precariously to the side of a steep mountain, a sheer drop to their right and a cliff to their left. The panic was compounded when a surge of people came running and screaming up the road accompanied by the sound of distant automatic weapons fire.

"The Emetists are coming! They're killing everybody!"

By nightfall over seven thousand Utman were dead, some shot on the road, others lined up and forced over the edge of the cliff plummeting to their death.

[Beatrice]

Rowe remained silent, sipping his drink as it was presented to him. "No need for apologies, there's a job to be done and that is the mandate placed upon us," he replied. "Now, the plans before us are of your design, the mission profiles and parameters set forth by your officers and intelligence, thus I would wish for your presence at our command for each step of the operations as Rokkenjiman forces fill the void left by your eviction. That which Kadassa does not know will not....well, it may hurt him, so that would be a bit of a misstatement, would it not?" Rowe chuckled.

[Lakhzovia]

Field Command, Kinere Theatre

As the battle for Kinere entered its second, and more deadly phase Field Command was a storm of activity at the centre of which was Commander Shoshanit who took heavy gulps of coffee between receiving reports and issuing orders.
“We’re taking fire from the port facility, appears to be coming from vicinity of the storage tanks.” Crackled the voice of one Captain over the radio.

Shoshanit called for one of his intel officers “What are these tanks?” he inquired

“Ammonia storage Sir.” He responded.

 No sooner had Shoshanit began to process this than he was interrupted by another officer who hurried to him from across the room. “Commander, we have reports of mortar fire from the Citadel” he started before the radio crackled to life again.

“This is team Beyt-6. We’re pinned under fire on Khalin street” came another report over the radio “they’ve surrounded us; we don’t have a clear exit. Requesting supporting fire.”

The Commander pressed his fingers to his head and massaged his temple; he had been up, on duty far longer than he was allowed under LDF guidelines and the combination of fatigue, coffee and stress had given him a splitting headache.

“We’ve identified the source of the fire” came a second voice over the radio.”

It was then, in a momentary lapse of concentration, that Shoshanit made a drastic error of judgement “Hold tight Captain, we’ll get some supporting fire for you, provide artillery team alef-gimil with coordinates.” He responded

“Sir?” came a semi-confused response across the radio.

“Do you have the coordinates?” he barked back

“Yes Sir.”

“Then transmit them to team alef-gimmil; I have authorised them to fire as soon as they receive coordinates.”

Minutes later a barrage of artillery shells rained down on the port facility, three of which struck the ammonia storage tanks, their explosive charges tearing gaping holes in the refrigerated units and blasting liquid ammonia high into the air. Within seconds the ammonia began to vaporise, a thick toxic fog boiling out of the holding tanks.

“Commander we have an emergency!” shouted a comms officer “Multiple reports from units around the harbour, the ammonia tanks have ruptured”

“What happened?” he demanded turning his full attention on the officer.

“The tanks were struck by the artillery barrage Sir”

“What artillery barrage? I didn’t order a strike on the Port”

“Artillery team alef-gimil, Sir” replied the officer

“But I ordered them to provide supporting fire to Beyt-6…” he began before the realisation dawned on him what had happened. He turned ashen faced to the room and raising his voice began desperately issuing orders “I want an evacuation of all troops from the area immediately. Send out a general broadcast on all wavelengths for civilians to take shelter.” He sat down and pressed his hand on his temple; the headache had intensified but that did not trouble him now, all he could think about was the spreading fog of toxic gas that was beginning to envelop the heart of the city.

[Lakhzovia]

Meeting of the Presidential Advisory Group, Presidential Palace, New Nakim

"How many casualities?" asked Kadassa grimly

"at least 14,000 dead initially, upward of 30,000 suffering from aftereffects of ammonia exposure, the expectation being that we will likely see another 5,000 die as a result with that estimate increasing to 8,000 without immediate access to medical treatment." said Minister of Defence Abesi Hokhav

"And what of Commander Shoshanit?"

"He has been relieved of duty and is under house arrest in his family villa awaiting the outcome of the LDF probe." said Hokhav

"Thank you Abesi" said Kadassa icily while turning his attention to Tesan Cikniye "Tesan. What impact has this had on us in the international community?  Has there been any noise about potential repercussions?"

"Thankfully no Mr President. It seems that the accident occurred at a time the world has focused its attention on the napalm bombings in Quintelia. In a way this couldn't have happened at a better time for us. Having strengthened our case against the Khaliniz Brigades and embarrassed the Rokkenjima-Achkaerin Axis their interest and capability to intervene in circumstances here have been limited; in addition the fact our campaign is entering the end phase against the Utman insurgency has resulted in them being written off as a lost cause. The news cycle has moved on, and the world's focus has shifted to the next conflict, I feel that there is unlikely to be any serious consequences for anything at this point." said Cikniye

"You don't say?" said Kadassa quizzically scratching his chin as he sat pondering this analysis "Perhaps we should test this... Hokhav"

"Sir?" said the Minister

"How is the relocation of our sarin stocks going?"

"More or less completed President. We have a small stockpile remaining outside of Khalin at a temporary holding facility waiting for relocation to the Rossetiyan storage facility."

"Is it well guarded?"

"Reasonably so, however as the front line fighting has receded towards Kinere we have had to rotate the guard in order to send more seasoned soldiers to engage in the siege of Kinere, the current contingent of guards are fairly fresh conscripts." said Hokhav

"Would the men be prepared, and able to repel a surprise attack from the Hand of Emet?" asked Kadassa coyly

"It would depend on how many attacked of course, but no, if there was a sufficiently fierce assault I imagine the guards would be forced to retreat." said Hokhav

"And how much sarin is stored there?" asked Kadassa

"Sufficient to kill 40,000 people" said Hokhav

"Most concerning." said Kadassa with a tone of mock concern before turning his attention to Shalmi Meira "Shalmi. I think you can understand that this is a particularly worrying. Who knows what would happen if these weapons were to fall into the hands of the Hand of Emet? I think you know what must be done."

"Yes Mister President." she said knowingly.

 

[DaveIronside]

The situation in Lakhzovia was getting more and more desperate for the refugees, first the fighting was getting more intense as forces dug in around urban areas, then if it wasn't the Utmen using chemical weapons the damn Lakhzovian air-force couldn't be trusted to hit the broadside of a barn, even if they were stood inside it. Cpt.Robbie Peacock and his group of Red Legionnaires had been tasked with keeping overwatch of what was now being called Camp Alpha, one of two makeshift "camps" set up into which the roving Red Legionnaires and Royal Kerns were attempting to funnel refugees. In truth it was some woodland in a valley which gave some shelter but had an area of pasture nearby which at a push could be used to set up tents if they ever arrived, the problem was how? Kinere Airfield was wrecked thanks to the Utmen and Greztin airfield was government controlled, that meant if they were targetting Utmen they'd be helpless.

"Bravo Team this is command come in" the radio crackled into life.

"Command this is Bravo team reading you five by five." Peacock squeezed his transmit button.

"You are to withdraw back to HQ for briefing leaving team in place over."

"Roger that" and with that Peacock turned and tabbed the few kilometers back to base. As he got to the circle of bivvys that effectively made the 350 man command's headquarters section he noticed the senior officer from the Royal Kerns had set up a map on the floor. Illumic Command was already chatting away on the radio. The briefing from the team back in East Moreland took about half an hour and then the two commanders on the ground dragged their teams together. "OK, here is the situation" Peacock began, "So far we have approximatly 2,000 refugees hanging around within the tree lines, food and water supplies are getting hit and we need a way of getting things in and out on a largish scale, that means two options. First is airfield at Kinere.....which we left unservicable. The second is the airfield at Greztin, which is government hands, now that might mean we can get stuff in but I doubt any of the refugees will want to pass through a government controlled airbase and their isn't enough of us to stop it. Unless the Lakhzovian's hand over control of that airfield, which they won't, we've no regular air route." Peacock looked around at the Red's gathered, "How many of you were in Mavrosia?" Peacock had been there almost two years ago and because King David had done a reservist tour there a decent number of Red's had deployed with him, around five hands went up. "Excellent, because we're building an airfield." There were bemused looks from the Cenneg guys.

"Marston Matting?" Saxby a former Air Loadmaster in the Air Force had been on many an exercise where they'd used the stuff.

"Indeed my learned friend" Peacock smirked, "Care to explain?"

"Yeah boss. Its a perforated steel plank. Bolt enough together and you can turn any uneven field into a half decent airfield, we built one in Mavrosia that could get full size cargo planes in. Took us four days. Handled stuff pretty good, but we shipped the stuff in by boat, not sure if you've noticed but were a long way away from the sea" there was a mumour of laughter.

"That's where the Cenneg STOL Cargo planes come in, their designed for grass field landing and take off and we've a field. They'll bring the gear in and can take out the worst of the refugees." Peacock noticed Saxby still had a puzzled look.

"No offence bossman, but we've a lack of manpower, took us four days with several thousand in Mavrosia." Saxby had been there and knew that it had seen 2,000 or so men to make it."

"You're right, but the guy who oversaw that has told us because we're using the STOL aircraft we don't need to go so big, and we'll ask the refugee's to help with the manpower. It'll take 112 sorties to get everything here, however the boffins back home say by sortie 57 the C-137 Puffin's can do a touch and go using their parachute delivery system to drag the stuff out on pallets, which will mean we could possibly get away with just 17 more sorties from that point. Then the Puffins can do regular no stop deliveries and the STOL's can come and go fully loaded en mass." Peacock looked back at Saxby, this kind of stuff used to be his life.

"Say goodbye to sleep gentleman" he smiled. "When do we start?"

"You're old mates are loading the first aircraft now. Go recruiting" Saxby nodded and took a team off into the "camp" and began asking around for men fit enough to help with the job. Eight and a half hours later the first STOL aircraft slid to an undignified halt. "Go!" he yelled at his team of 10 Red's, 10 Kerns and 40 refugees, they began unloading the matting and then helping load the 15 refugees, 10 children and five women. The door shut the aircraft headed back towards the tree line and then bumping and bouncing over the grass took to the skies narrowly clipping the trees. "Let's build....consider it giant lego." Saxby picked up the first pack of matting with another Red and carried it the short distance to where their runway would begin. Peacock arrived to start helping with the construction carrying a wooden sign he'd fashion, on the wood painted in cam cream were the words "Welcome to the Tom Saxby International Airport" with a grin he stuck it in the ground and rolled his sleeves up as already the second STOL could be heard on the wind beginning its approach.

[Achkaerin]

It was becoming a really hard time for Kakashi, the seasoned General paced around the command tent

"How the hell do you lose a refugee column?" he asked
"You don't." Sarah said "All we know is that it was on route 28 one night but not there the following morning."
"So Lakhzov troops or Hand of Emet?" Kakashi asked
"My money says Hand of Emet." Sarah said "That pass is nowhere near the combat zone."
"Either way it's an Uppsala breach." Kakashi said "What about this Kinere incident?"
"Satellite shows what looks oddly like a Vilniz re-enactment" Sarah said "And this one is Lakzov forces."
"So that's another potential Uppsala breach." Kakashi said "Find out what happened to that refugee column."
"That won't be easy." Sarah said
"Well either Rowe goes down that road and see's what he can see or..." Kakashi said
"Or we put a team in and they investigate." Sarah said
"Oh yeah let's give Kadassa an excuse for war." Kakashi said

"If Kadassa's government is allowing breach's of the Uppsala Convention to occur then that's more than enough justification. Article 1.3 'National governments have the right to expect the international community to ensure hostile nations comply with this document.' if Utman civilians are dying then Kadassa is either knowingly permitting it which is an Uppsala breach, though difficult to prove without a whistleblower or leverage, neither of which we presently have." Sarah said "Or he's unable to prevent it."

"If a Lakhzov armed forces officer was responsible for what happened at Kinere then they have to be held accountable under Uppsala otherwise that's permitting a breach and all bets are off." Kakashi said there was a note of anger in his tone "Do what needs to be done to find out the fate of that refugee caravan. Because this is the line Sarah. One more and I have to make a call."
"Understood." Sarah said
"How are we doing with refugee camps?" Kakashi asked
"Five set up, taking in refugee's in. All running about two thirds capacity." Sarah said "And that's only because the Lakhzovian offensive has diverted Khaliniz numbers from the pass's near the border, so a small number of trails are passable."

"Get me the latest on the pass's as well." Kakashi said
"Yes sir." Sarah said

[DaveIronside]

Flight Lieutenant Conrad


At some 10,000 feet above Northern Lakhzovia Jack Conrad was cruising along in his Dragonbane II of 6 Squadon, affectionatley known as the Flying Can Openers. They'd been tasked with providing close air support, should it be required, for the Red Legionnaires and Royal Kerns on the ground. He could make out the slowly ever growing metal strip below him. "Foxtrot Two to command, I have inbound aircraft in sight" he called in spotting the dark smudge on the horizon getting bigger and bigger. He climbed to a much higher altitude to ensure he was clear of the STOL aircraft's touchdown. The two Dragonheart fighters waggled their wingtips in a sign of greeting and Jack returned the gesture. Once the STOL beneath him came to a halt he returned to his cruising altitude and resumed his overflight.

"Romeo Five requesting air support on 4-8-3-3-9-2, enemy technical convoy." a voice came over the radio.

"Romeo Five, Foxtrot Two in bound from the South" he banked, pushed the throttle and dropped to just 1,000 feet. He whipped over the sight of the makeshift runway and could just about make out the aircraft beneath him working away. Some moments later he spotted a line of six Utmen vehicles moving across a road and received confirmation that these were the targets. He lined up and could already see muzzle flashes from below, the throttle open fully he lined up the sights on the HUD and pressed the trigger. The familiar whirl of the twin guns filled his ears and he could see the tiny explosive impacts of the rounds striking home on and between the crowded vehicles. The last vehicle disappeared beneath his nose and he pulled vertically and performed a wingover taking him back the way he'd come.

"Three kills, two smoking" the team on the ground reported. Jack lined himself up and had a second pass this time throwing a rocket or two into the mix for variety. He saw a huge explosion as one struck home on a fuel tank. "All dead. Thank you very much" the voice came from the radio.

"Your Welcome and you know where we are." Jack resumed his patrol and overflight of the guys on the ground. As he returned to the airfield the STOL aircraft was taking off and he watched it climb high and head for home.

"BINGO! BINGO!" an automated voice called informing him that it was time to return home. He called in and as he turned for home and as he crossed out of Lakhzovian air space he saw three more of his squadron forming up on his wingtip. Twenty minutes later the C-137 Puffin headed past them, marking the 57th sortie. It came in to land at what to those on the ground seemed an alarming pace, the wheels touched the metal matting of the half built runway and a loadmaster in the back pulled a lever, a parachute opened and flew out the aircraft rear tailgate, massive bundles of matting flew out and landed on the ground below them, without losing any speed the Puffin ascended steeply its job done. If everything now went to plan they'd need just 17 more sorties and they'd have all the matting they'd need.

[Achkaerin]

"General." Sarah said a few hours later walking back into the tent.
"How bad?" Kakashi asked
"Oh it's bad." Sarah said "Rokkenjima didn't have anyone to spare but fortunately there are still JET personnel in country, Dr Stone sent in a report."
"How many?" Kakashi asked
"Thousands of Utman refugee's killed on Route 28." Sarah said "Looks like the same deal as the mountain pass's that we were contesting with the Khaliniz Brigades. A rock fall used to pen them in and group them, probably had whoever did it coming up from the south to close the trap."
"Lakhzovian or Hand of Emet?" Kakashi asked

"Kadassa isn't that stupid, he's not going to order Lakhzovian troops to engage in wholescale slaughter and you know that." Sarah said "Odds are this is the work of the Hand of Emet."
"How are we getting the bodies out?" Kakashi asked
"Marked helicopters with red cross's on the side." Sarah said "Orders?"
"Go through the intelligence on the Hand of Emet and then work something out with Wing Commander Jennings." Kakashi said "I want them to know that that is not acceptable and if Kadassa won't hold them accountable we will."
"Yes sir." Sarah said

[Lakhzovia]

 Presidential Palace, Nakim, 04:23am

Kadassa walked in to his briefing room with Colonel Aris Huvenciya in tow. The Officer was the head of the LDF’s military intelligence branch, the sole intel organisation that did not fall under Shalmi Meira’s Ministerial control. Surveying the room Kadassa noted with satisfaction that those he had sent the secretive, urgent summons to, had arrived. Gathered around the table was Foreign Minister Tesan Cikniye, Defence Minister Abesi Hokhav and and Chief of Staff General Ilis Shuziye; all three men looked uneasy.

“Good Morning Gentlemen. I apologise for gathering you at this Emet forsaken hour, however as you will shortly see this is a matter of some urgency.” Began Kadassa as he and Aris took their seats. “Colonel Huvenciya has just finished briefing me on some disturbing news about matters that pose a very real threat to our government and our project of national salvation. Needless to say this is very sensitive information which is why only those who are necessary, and who I trust are here. With that said; Aris, would you care to sum it up for them?” said Kadassa.

“Thank you Mr President. Colleagues, it has come to my attention as head of military intelligence that there are a number of major threats to the continued stability of the state, some of these threats exist at the highest level of the government; namely the Minister of Security and the Prefecture.

We have identified the following threats: First there is the danger of fallout from the Trinitron hack which Rokkenjima has traced back to the Cyber Division of the Lakhzov Development Corp, we have reason to believe that Lakhzovia faces an imminent retaliatory-attack on our own infrastructure with the potential for Rokkenjiman intelligence to gain access to incriminating information about the links between the LDC, Prefecture, Lakhzov Home Party and the Hand of Emet. This is compounded by the defection of a police officer; one Detective Sachim Riqz, who we believe managed to gather significant evidence of the LDC-Prefecture involvement in the Zimalia drugs network and the funnelling of that money into funding the Hand of Emet. It is likely that this information is now in the hands of Achkaerin, though they may not yet have realised the significance of it.

Asides from this there is already mounting pressure from the international community to deal with the Hand of Emet, with the potential for unilateral action from Rokkenjima and Achkaerin if there is any sense that we are not able, or willing, to deal with them ourselves or in partnership. This could be particularly difficult given the strong ties between the Lakhzov Home Party and the Emetists, it would suggest our government’s complicity in the militia’s actions and open us up to accusations of war criminality as well as the threat of regime change.

Finally, and this is the gravest threat, the Prefecture and Lakhzov Home faction appear to be aware of the threat to the current regime and are making active plans to seize control of the state apparatus in the event of a Rokkenjiman-Achkaerinese intervention. This would most be an act of self-preservation on their part, hoping to offer the President and other key members of the government up for indictment in an international war crimes tribunal allowing them to form a new regime.”

The men in the room wore expressions of grave concern and a tense silence hung over them, eventually Kadassa spoke breaking the spell. “Of course, I have absolutely no intention of allowing this to occur. We have long known that the Hand of Emet was a liability, and we have also known since day one that the Lakhzov Home Party are a danger to our government; for a time, it was prudent to work with them in coalition where we could contain the risk they posed, however it was always clear there would come a day that they would attempt to make their move. Gentlemen, for our survival and the survival of our project we must move first and decisively.

First we must buy the confidence of Rokkenjima. If they are soon to discover the links between the LDC, the Prefecture and the hand of Emet then we must pre-empt them. I will reach out to the Rokkenjiman’s and explain to them our suspicions, we shall make them aware that we have recently discovered links between the Hand of Emet and the Lakhzov Home Party. I will explain our concerns that some of our coalition partners in Ministerial positions have been abusing the trust placed in them to actively work against the government and interests of the state.

When the Rokkenjiman’s move against the Hand of Emet we will be right there with them as willing partners. That will be the time to make our move against the Lakhzov Home and finally remove the threat they pose to us once and for all.”

At this point General Shuziye intervened “What about the Prefecture? They are undoubtedly loyal to Shalmi Meira, any attempt to move against the Lakhzov Home would see unprecedented resistance from them.”

“This is why we need to move quickly and decisively; it is also why you are all here. You are all trusted comrades and the military is loyal to you. Once the crackdown begins I will need the military to enforce a general curfew and participate in the raid of Prefecture offices. We need to arrest the greater part of the Prefecture personnel, especially at the command level, at the time we move to arrest the Lakhzov Home faction. Once we have dealt with them we will need to ensure that something like this cannot happen again. We will need a new intelligence agency headed by people loyal to our project, and I can think of no one better than Col. Huvenciya for the role.”

[Lakhzovia]

Seònaid Ayanami

"We need to know more about the factions within the Utman." Jade said as she sat down opposite Agran, the white pieces in front of her it seemed he was a gentleman, she made her first move "Anything you can tell us would be greatly appreciated."

Argan's focused his attention on the chessboard and appeared pensive, as if trying to work out Jade's plan of attack. Without looking up he began to speak "An uncharacteristically direct question today. I take it Achkaerin is attempting to make sense of the mess that is Lakhzovia's political landscape; I'm afraid that is something I have been attempting my whole life with little success, but I will tell you what I do know." he reached out and placed his fingers on a knight before apparently reconsidering and withdrawing them again. "The Utman, despite the attempt in recent years to present a unified face are riven with internal tensions; of course I think by now that this is abundantly obvious. Now these fractures occur mainly along a pragmatist-idealist divide within which there are degrees of extremes ranging from moderate accommodationism to a more extremist rejectionist position." Argan paused and finally made a move bringing out the king's pawn to e5. "Now from what I have gleaned from media reports I think it is clear where the different factions fall on this axis, the Shanata Party are pragmatic accommodationists, they would happily accept an agreement for autonomy short of independence along the lines of the Ceouz Utman who they see as a model for their own prosperity, in probability the only reason the Shanata agreed to participate in the Provisional Government was because they felt that the Kadassa Regime's electoral meddling was aimed at preventing the extension of autonomy to the Transmecurian Utman, it was probably imagined that the threat of independence would bring the government to extend the offer of autonomy, when movement was made in this direction they inevitably abandoned the independence project which I imagine they considered a suicidal adventure. There was probably also an element of wanting to avoid losing public support and surrendering control of the Utman popular consciousness to more extremist elements.

Now Uttaman's faction is ideologically driven but pragmatic, they occupy a space that seeks to find a balance between rejectionism and accommodation with Lakhzovia. They desire true independence but would accept greater autonomy as a step on the path to said independence. They would have been likely to make significant concessions in any negotiations if it made independence a reality. It was really Uttaman and his faction that was able to provide a unifying force among the Transmecurian Utman.

Now finally the Khaliniz Brigades, who I am sure are the real faction of interest to you; they are archetypal extremists. They reject any notion of autonomy fearing that this would significantly dampen the struggle for independence. They also reject any sort of territorial compromise with Lakhzovia, combining this with a refusal to recognise any Lakhzov cultural or historical claims within Transmecuria. The Khaliniz Brigade coup against the provisional government was inevitable, as was the subsequent use of extreme violence in their attempts to secure claimed territory. While I am led to believe that they are losing ground and will soon lose control of the last of their held territory I fear that this will not be the end of them, they will return to underground activity. I expect they return to their former tactic of committing high casualty terror attacks against Lakhzov targets, and potentially against those who it considers has having aided the Lakhzov government."


Detective Sachim Riqz, Undisclosed Hospital, Achkaerin

Sachim Riqz had been dozing in his bed for the past few hours, time had taken on a hazy non-definite nature since he had first been hospitalised following falling ill at his safe house. Presently he drifted back into consciousness and opening his eyes saw that the guards on his door had admitted a guest. As his vision grew clearer a small smile of recognition passed across his face "Ah, the government." he said "I suppose you have come to vent your displeasure at me?" he shifted into a more upright sitting position in the bed using his pillows as a support for his back "I know, I know. I shouldn't have kept copies of the documents I turned over to you when I made my asylum claim, and I am doubly aware I shouldn't have attempted to contact my old colleague back in Nakim." he paused for a moment as if gathering his thoughts "The doctor says I was lucky the ricin was put in my tea, apparently the temperature denatured enough of the poison to give me a chance of surviving... but wait, that was not what I needed to tell you." he sat with his chin pressed against his chest for a few seconds before jerking his head upwards as he remembered the urgent information he had meant to communicate "Ah! That was it. I followed some leads and I now know where Lakhzovia fits in to the Zimalia network. The shell companies that LDC was diverting money to all have links to individuals believed to either be direct members, or strong supporters, of the Hand of Emet militia."


Presidential Palace, New Nakim

Kadassa sat at his desk and waited for the flashing light on his phone indicating that a line had been connected to Viceregent Euphemia of Rokkenjima, he picked up the receiver and pressed the flashing button to begin the call.

"May the Blessings of Emet be upon you Viceregent." he began "First may I extend my sincere condolences for the death of a Rokkenjiman citizen in the recent Truthsayer terror attack. Lakhzovia is a country that knows all too well the pain of terror, may we both live to see the scourge eradicated from Mundus.

Let me also take this opportunity to extend my sincere apologies, and express my grave concern at the recent claims of Lakhzov impropriety regarding the Trinitron cyber attack. I am mortified to learn that Rokkenjiman security experts believe this attack on Rokkenjima to have been launched from without our country, I assure you that it comes as a complete shock to me that such a thing could occur; Lakhzovia after all considers Rokkenjima one of our strongest allies and greatest friends. I have ordered a probe to investigate the claims and wish to assure you that when we discover who is responsible for this outrage that they will be dealt with to the fullest extent.

I am contacting you because I believe that even in times when the relationship between our two countries are strained, that dialogue is crucial. It is in that spirit I am making this call, to ensure that we are able to work together to root out those who are a threat to us both, and on that note there is much to discuss."

[DaveIronside]

"This crap again" Flt.Lt Dannit complained as the C-137 Puffin began its descent onto the brown strip contrasting against the green grass. Either side of the strip he could see tiny dots, members of the Morelanders Red Legion and the Cenneg Royal Kerns Commando's, just an hour earlier they'd finished the construction of the makeshift runway after 49 hours of hard graft. Dannit had been a Pilot Officer at the time but had been the first aircraft into Mavrosia where they'd used the same technique, this time however the lack of vehicles on standby for if something went wrong was a concern. "Flaps down" he said more to himself than anyone else, "Cutting throttle" the outline of people was now clearly visible, "Brace for a bumpy landing" he spoke to the men in the back who gripped the edge of their side facing seats as the wheels touched the threshold of the metallic runway. Immediately Dannit applied the breaks and aimed to slow down stopping the aircraft some 20 meters short of the other end. Already he could see figures moving from out the trees to the left of him. He lowered the rear ramp and could hear and feel the men in the back deplaning.

"Where's your C.O?" Major Lewis Poole of the King's Own Fusiliars asked as his men jogged past.

"Over there, Peacock's his name." A scruffy looking Red Legionnaire Corporal said rather dismissively. Poole had been warned about the Red's lack of respect for authority and so simply headed over towards the tall man the Corporal had indicated.

"Peacock?" Poole asked, not spotting any rank slides and unsure whether he should salute. "Sorry, chap didn't say your rank" Poole pointed back to the Red Legionnaire he'd just spoke to. "Major Poole, I'm to start overseeing refugee movements. I understand you have orders to look after our perimeter?" Poole always felt nervous around the Red's they were the best of the best as far as he was concerned and even though he outranked all of them here he wouldn't dream of using his authority without their consent.

"That's right....Captain Peacock, this is Captain O'Malley of the Cenneg Royal Kerns Commando, the pair of us will be out and about, we'll be on the end of the radio." Peacock hefted a pack that had been at his feet. "I'll catch you later" he simply added before disappearing off with three of his men leaving the Cenneg officer and Poole together.

"Guess you'll want the tour sir?" Malley said with a touch more military discipline than the Red's had managed. "This way" he headed off to the tree line, there hidden among the trees must have been a few thousand civilians, each in makeshift shelters made out of whatever they could find, what first hit Poole however was the smell, a great gathering of the unwashed, many little children, filled the air with a full on assault of his nostrils. "We've got those with children here, the non-children group is over there." O'Malley pointed to another corpse of woodland about 100 meters further uphill. "Last count we had 2,000 here, a further 1,000 over there. Non-registered, non documented and non-background checked. So no idea what your planning to do."

It wasn't Poole who answered. "OK, we get the desks set up there" a woman's voice came and a group of soldiers carrying camping tables did as she instructed, she was wearing military fatigues but had a red cross on her arm and no other ensignia. "Major I'll need five of your men to help out here. We take details and assign them a priority. I believe you've some ill and injured, they go on that." Melissa Lusk pointed back to the Puffin that was, with the help of about thirty men, being turned round ready for take off. The MCUR's Refugee Council head had agreed with King David and King Finley that an Uppsala Passport could be granted to anyone she saw fit, they'd be flown to Illumic Command before being housed in barracks temporarily before being properly admited.

"You heard the lady" Poole pointed to several of his men who grudgingly helped set up.

A beep went off from O'Malley's pocket. "2nd  flight arrives in ten minutes, we better haul ass sir" he addressed Poole and between the Kerns and the Fusiliars they began picking up makeshift stretchers and heading out to the waiting aircraft. With the 2nd Puffin beginning its descent the first cleared the tree line, it's Dragonheart escort falling in alongside it as the 2nd one touched down bringing the 3rd Highlanders from Ui Cenneslaig to Lakhzovia. The CNN now had some 200 more men on the ground and when the 3rd Puffin arrived five RoboGuards which were sent off patrolling alongside the Red Legionnaires.

Poole had been given command with the Highlander's Major McGinley as his 2 I.C. "Let people know that MacBadger Airfield is open for business" he couldn't help but laugh at the name Saxby had given their creation.


To All Forces Concerned

With immediate effect an air corridor between Illumic Command and Northern Lakhzovia, via suitable Somerset airspace, is in effect. The purpose of this air corridor is to form a refugee evacuation point. A makeshift airfield has been constructed at co-ordinates provided, it's call sign is MacBadger. It shall be available for all tactical transport aircraft at the rate of one landing every ten minutes for Morelander aircraft and one every twenty minutes for all other nationalities. At present we have around 3,500 refugees whom CTO Refugee Council Head Melissa Lusk is granting Uppsala Passports too. It is expected this number shall raise once the knowledge of this airfield reaches those seeking help. We will be establishing a perimeter at 2km from the airfield, any suspicious vehicles and/or ground movements in that zone are likely to be engaged by air assets.

Signed

East Moreland / Ui Cenneslaig Forces in Lakhzovia.

[Beatrice]

"President Kadassa," Euphemia said as she wrote a note to be dispatched to the ambassador from Achkaerin, "Thank you for contacting me and for your condolences. It has been a most trying time, with incidents of terror around the globe, increasing tensions and conflict springing up seemingly in all corners. Our history, especially recently, has become strained, especially as we learn that Trinitron was sourced from within Lakhzovia. We also know that malware such as Trinitron is the product of a state actor which means, if you were not aware of it yourself, then your Government is either hiding things from you, factions within it are 'going rogue', or perhaps other possibilities which I will not raise at this point."

"I am happy to explore cooperation with you as our investigation continues and we learn more about Trinitron itself. Whether it be a rogue element of your Government there will be a measure of retaliation demanded; I've already been briefed by our military, intelligence and economic officials on a battery of reprisals we may explore. I will require a measure of faith from you, however, if we are to cooperate. The Hand of Emet still have Rokkenjiman blood on their hands which cry out for justice, so if you wish to prove your convictions I ask that you allow a precision strike on two Emet strongholds, as well as allowing Rokkenjima to deploy forces for operations to eliminate, once and for all, this terrorist enterprise and the threat it poses."

"As you said there is much to discuss, so from my request for a measure of faith, let us start."
Ambassador,

As I write this I am speaking with President Kadassa and would request your presence so we may move forward on this situation jointly. Please join me at Pyrena Castle at your earliest convenience.

Euphy

[Tamed_Untamed]

Colonel Rihana Al-Hijari and Secretary Sky Rich were getting ready for their trip. Both of them were women, as the standard procedure for foreign journeys. Sirinisi scheduled them for a flight to Lakhzovia. However, this would only continue if it was approved. And it was. They would only go there as observers, military ones, so they could watch and study this conflict. For all the knowledge this world could offer was necessary for the Sirinisians. Even if it was war, it had to be known or else they would be isolated and ruined for their ignorance.

[Lakhzovia]

Kadassa scratched his chin, he had expected the Rokkenjiman's to push hard on this and had not been disappointed, however when she had made mention of 'other possibilities' it had thrown him. Having mulled it for a minute or two he decided to disregard it. A deliberate attempt to rattle him he reasoned.

The Viceregent completed setting out her position with a request for Lakhzovia's cooperation in allowing Rokkenjiman strikes against the Hand of Emet, this of course was what he had been waiting for. "Your position is perfectly understand Viceregent, and I must say that so far Rokkenjima has show remarkable restraint in its dealings with the conflict. I perfectly understand that given the loss of Rokkenjiman personnel and the attack on your energy infrastructure that you would require tangible trust building measures be instituted.

To that end I agree with you that cooperation between us in dealing with the Hand of Emet threat is essential. I therefore grant authorisation for you to launch strikes against HoE positions and for Rokkenjiman troops to be involved in an active campaign to neutralise the threat from the militia."

[Achkaerin]

Arthur Walters, the Achkaerinese ambassador to Rokkenjima made his way to Pyrena by car, it wasn't a long trip but it was long enough for him to think about what was developing, the various actions had pushed things to a point where action was likely inevitable. He knew this and there were going to be hard choices ahead for a lot of people. But first things first it was time to match Rokkenjima's knowledge against what Achkaerin had to see just what the landscape looked like.

Ashai Castle, the home to Achkaerin's Military Defence Initiative and Counter Terrorism, the latter being the highly classified group called Justicars, had become quite the hectic place in the last few hours all the intelligence from Detective Riqz had been rerun and now they had it right in front of them.
"So let me get this straight." Rion Ayanami, the senior Justicar, said "The LDC is diverting money to shell companies that have links to the Hand of Emet."
"These are washing machines." Paul Kessel said "The money comes in and gets mixed with all the other money obtained through business. Not bad in terms of laundering it."
"And then when the money goes out to the networks it's clean." Rion said "But the links to Hand of Emet mean this ain't drugs, my money's on weapons."
"So chances are they're better armed than the Khaliniz." Paul said
"Run it and find out who these individuals are." Rion said "We all know what's coming and it's been coming for a while. Let's make sure we get it right."
"Higher ups are going to be gathering." Paul said
"Don't I know it." Rion said "Just be glad you aren't going to have to pitch whatever happens."

[DaveIronside]

The comedically christened MacBadger airfield had been in effect now almost 48 hours and the refugees who had been hiding in the trees had almost all gone now their flights back to East Moreland for processing having left in the last few hours. The makeshift airfield however was now filling up with other equipment, medical supplies, extra firepower in the shape of a few LCV-2 and even two Chameleon tanks. The trees now housed a batch of white tents, arranged as best as they could in rows, a field kitchen and hospital had also been erected having been brought in on the flights that had come in empty.

The Red Legionnaires had now almost exclusively taken to patrolling the extended perimeter they'd established, the constant drone of high altitude aircraft a reassuring one above them. The teams would go out and wander the route some 2km away from the airfield, watch a few roads, set up OP's where they thought issues could arise and generally just be a set of eyes to give advance warning. There had been the odd appearance by the Khalinz Brigades but nothing beyond an old pick up with a machine gun mounted, and seeing as they weren't heading towards MacBadger they were simply watched out the area.

This vehicle however was different, it looked more professional, camoflauge painted, a proper weapons system and with a second following it looked like they knew what they were doing. Sgt.Thomas focused his scope on them and spotted a flag fluttering on the vehicle, a Lakhzovian one, "Hand of Emet" the Sergeant informed his team without taking his eyes off them from the ridge line. "We'll let them go as long as they don't head our way." Thomas didn't want to give away their position unless absolutley neccessary.

"I think that's why there here"  Saxby tapped Thomas on the shoulder and pointed down the valley, "3-4km below the summit of the hill" Sgt.Thomas put his eye to his scope and examined the scene as Saxby talked him onto the target.

"Bollocks" Thomas muttered, there was a gathering force of the Khalinz, some six technical vehicles, what looked like a mortar too. "Keep a watching brief." was all the Sergeant said as they maintained their watch. Just as expected the Hand of Emet came under fire from the Khalinz and the Morelanders watched as tracer rounds flew back and forth, the Khalinz rather inaccurate and the Hand of Emet pinned down. "We better take out the Khalinz" Thomas knelt up and checked his radio, "If they go through the militia we're next" with that he got on the radio and checked the various frequencies until he got the combat air patrols. "Charlie Alpha Papa, this is Red Four, request immediate air strike on Khalinz at grid 73438234" He got confirmation of a pair of multi-role jets coming in and around a minute later the aircraft rushed down the valley towards the foot of the hill, tracer flew up towards the lead one but at just above supersonic they'd have no chance of causing damage. The first aircraft opened up with canon as its RAPTOR pod relayed target information to the second following a minute behind, the tell tale sound of Brimstone missiles flying off the rail filled the air and a satisfying thud and ball of flame could be seen as one of the Khalinz Brigade vehicles was hit. The first aircraft had now lined itself up again and made a second pass, followed once more by the other aircraft using its relayed data to give a view of the site.  "They seem happy" Olly chuckled as he spotted the Hand of Emet cheering as the aircraft flew away.

"See if we can get in touch with the Lakhzovian's, tell them to keep the Hand of Emet clear of our perimeter, let them know we'll be conducting air strikes on all suspected Khalinz Brigade activity, they can stay south of us in that case." Thomas handed the radio to Saxby who set about trying to pass the instructions back via various channels.

[Lakhzovia]

Presidential Palace, Nakim

"You agreed to what?" screamed Shalmi Meira across the room as the other members of the Presidential Advisory Group looked on shocked "We are in the middle of a civil war and you want to turn one of the few groups working towards the same goal as our into our enemies and at the same time give a free ticket to Rokkenjima to intervene at will?"

"Shalmi you forget yourself!" bellowed Kadassa "I am the President, I am Commander in Chief, and so long as the state of emergency remains in effect I have final say on all security matters." he calmed himself a little, resettling himself in his chair before he continued "Do not forget Shalmi, that it was your unauthorised actions in utilising the Hand of Emet to attack Rokkenjiman interests that has led to the situation we are now in. I have given you more than enough chances, you have been nothing but a thorn in my side and constantly jeopardising the relationship with Rokkenjima I have done so much to build."

Kadassa was interrupted as General Shuziye let himself in to to the room.

"My apologise Mr President." said the General as he walked towards his seat "I was dealing with an urgent matter."

The room had fallen silent, all eyes trained on Kadassa in anticipation of the expected angry outburst that he usually reserved for those interrupting like this; however they instead were met with a vision of calm collection.

"That is fine General, thank you for joining us. Do you have any messages for me?" asked Kadassa

"Yes Sir. My wife has checked the hen house, she says that the eggs have hatched." said Shuziye

At this a smile crept across Kadassa's face while the rest of the room, save for Minister Hokhav, looked on perplexed. Kadassa picked up the receiver of his desk phone and began punching in numbers

"Hello, this is Kadassa." he said before waiting a moment while he listened to a reply from the other end of the line.

"Yes, that's right. Now." he said before placing the phone back on the receiver. "Now where were we?" he asked "Ah yes, Shalmi. I have given you and your faction more than enough latitude, only to have you abuse the privileges I extended you. Well no more."

Shalmi wore an expression of confusion as if Kadassa was speaking a foreign language. Behind her the doors to the conference room burst opened and armed military police entered, suddenly a look of comprehension spread across her face. She attempted to snatch her arms away as two of the men grabbed her while others fanned out around the room's perimeter and began accosting members of the Lakhzov Home faction.

"You can't do this!" she screeched "You have no idea what you are doing, the Prefecture will not stand for this! The people will not stand for it!" she yelled defiantly

Kadassa's smirk turned into a broad smile, this was the first time he had seen her genuinely fearful. "I am afraid if you think that the Prefecture is coming to save you that you are mistaken." he turned to look at Shuziye "General, why don't you tell her where you were?" he asked with a gleeful sneering tone.

"Certainly Mr President." said the General before addressing the room "At five AM this morning President Kadassa issued a Presidential Edict declaring the Prefecture to be a threat to national security. He ordered me to begin an operation to neutralise them as a threat. Forty minutes ago Military Intelligence in collaboration with the Army began coordinated raids of all Prefecture Offices and sites in order to neutralise this threat. All intelligence operations are now being run under the auspices of MilIntel."

Shalmi and the other Lakhzov Home Ministers went ashen faced at this news while the other Ministers looked on in stunned silence.

"Thank you General. You have done Lakhzovia a great service today. Now get these criminals out of my sight."

[Beatrice]

Re: Actions Against The Hand Of Emet

Honourable President,

Following in the actions of my predecessor, Empress Emerita Evanthe, I have committed 5,000 Rokkenjiman troops for deployment to Lakhzovia against our common foe, the Hand of Emet militia. From this initial deployment I intend to build up to 12,000 Rokkenjiman troops on the ground to route out this threat to our nations and cordial relations, however, more information is required by my forces before they are capable of taking action.

Furthermore, I have instructed the Imperial Treasury to take actions against the Lakhzov Development Corps, including sanctions, to ensure they never again pose a threat to the First Empire or her allies. Only until the Hand of Emet and the LDC are incapable of acting against our mutual interests may we rest assured that our mission has been accomplished.

I look forward to your cooperation on these matters so that we may, together, address the mutual threats to our cordial relations as well as stability throughout Mundus. I look forward to speaking with you personally so that we may move forward together. Please forward all relevant information to my office so that we may act swiftly on these mutual threats to our Nations and Peoples.

Yours in friendship;

Beatrice Anselmo
Empress of Rokkenjima
Princess of Littlebrook

[Achkaerin]

Mark Sharpe, strode into the Military Defence Initiative's operations centre at Ashai Castle, the home of Achkaerin's military intelligence bodies. Standing there waiting at a round table were the MDI's operational chief Lt Colonel Kara Thornton and her second in command Major Matthew Kirby

"LISA has signed off on operations against the Hand of Emet." Mark said he handed a folder to Kara who looked at it, it was the associated paperwork from the HQ but there was such a thing as making sure things were in order.
"What's the word?" Kara asked
"Rokkenjima's asking for more intelligence which once relayed through the LIA should make its way here." Mark said
"What have Rokkenjima asked for?" Matthew asked
"They have permission to hit two Hand of Emet strongholds and commence a ground campaign." Mark said "They want to hit the LDC with sanctions and stuff as well."
"So we get planning." Kara said "Wait for the intel and figure it out from there."
"Yep." Matthew said "Richard what's the Lakhzovia lie of the land?" he was addressing the senior analyst Richard Weaver
"CNN forces comprising East Moreland and Ui Cenneslaig personnel have got McBadger airfield which they're protecting for now from Khaliniz brigades while evacuating civilians out of there." Richard said "Lakhzovian Government has started arresting people associated with Prefecture which is itself believed to be associated with the Hand of Emet."
"Is there any way of doing this without intruding on their air corridor?" Kara asked
"Probably not." Matthew said "The only alternative would be to breach Lakhzovian air space over areas still held by the Khaliniz which may incur extra risk."
"Figure it out." Mark said "I've got to get back to Valtheim for an emergency meeting with the Emperor."

Kara looked at Matthew
"We need to know how long whatever operation we plan and gets agreed to is going to take timewise." Kara said "And then we need to approach East Moreland and Ui Cenneslaig and ask them ever so nicely if they can give us that window."
"Well even supposing they agree to all this what do you want to do?" Matthew asked
"I want to send a message loud and clear that the cold blooded murder of civilians is not acceptable, I want to send a message that breaking the Uppsalla Convention has consequences." Kara said "Samuel what can we do about the data and the server?" she was looking towards the resident computer genius Samuel Freeman
"Well if Rokkenjima can provide the details of where that server is then we might be able to do something along the lines of a cyber attack." Samuel said "Of course if Riviere hurried up with the Chidori missile..."
"You have any idea how delicate that thing is?" Kara asked "Cameron do you have a list of assets committed to the situation i.e. those presently sitting in Somerset?"
"Here." the armed forces liaison officer Lieutenant Cameron Gallagher said handing Kara an electronic tablet.
"Good." Kara said studying it "I want to know as soon as Rokkenjima has intel on their prospective targets." Kara said "Meanwhile call the Designated Officer and ask her to come down here."
"Seriously?" Matthew asked
"Seriously if we're sending a message then let's make it heard I'm asking for Morningstar authority." Kara said

[Lakhzovia]

Bhali Village, Transmecuria Province

Captain Alun surveyed the village from his command post in what had previously been the local police station. It had been two months since the Kadassa regime had begun its purge of the Lakhzov Home faction, a move that signalled the end of government support for the Hand of Emet. After the initial shock of that act had passed word began to filter down through unofficial channels appraising the command hierarchy of the nature of the situation. Apparently the international community, and in particular Rokkenjima, had managed to strong arm Kadassa into agreeing to a move against their militia and in an act of self-preservation Kadassa had began a campaign of scapegoating to pin the responsibility for his policies on others.

At first they had thought that the purge was a purely political show trial of a few mid-level administrators with a handful of higher level Ministers and personnel thrown in to make the most of the opportunity to settle scores; this illusion had been shattered when the first of the strikes against Hand of Emet positions occurred. Even then the hope was maintained that this was merely theatre to show the international community that the regime was taking matter seriously, again this was proven a false hope when further strikes occurred against critical Emetist targets, a number of strikes being carried out by aircraft identified as belonging to Rokkenjima and other LISA members.; Apparently Kadassa had decided to cooperate with the country's enemies against its own people.

As he scanned the narrow streets of the ancient settlement he was gratified to see that the Utman peasants of the village had finally resumed their normal lives, children going to the single room schoolhouse, farmers making their way to their fields and worshippers entering the temple to pray. It was essential to their current strategy that those spotters and intelligence gathering overflights by the government and LISA forces see that the village was active and populated with Utman civilians.

It had been decided after the initial strikes that the best strategy would be to embed among the civilian population. Given that the LISA mission was in part to protect civilian life, the use of the Utman population as human shields had been touted as the best way to proceed. Either the strikes would cease or their opponents would be forced to sacrifice innocent lives in their pursuit of them, with all the reputational damage that would entail.

This appeared to have worked so far, however there was troubling news of the arrival of Rokkenjiman troops in the country and indications that they would shortly be deploying to Transmecuria. If their suspicions were correct then the arrival of boots on the ground marked the opening of a new and deadly phase of the campaign against their militia. All of them knew that they could not survive a direct confrontation with the Rokkenjiman army, and with Kadassa seemingly given them full logistical support it seemed only a matter of time before they were forced to flee and go underground. However they still had an ace up their sleeve; an armoury well stocked with sarin nerve agents, they had not yet used these, determining that their value as a deterrent was far greater than any practical use of them could be. It was simple, they would make it clear that attempts to eliminate them would bear a painful cost in civilian life.

[DaveIronside]

"Flight 28 you are clear for inbound" An Air Force Flight Sergeant who was acting as the airstrips air traffic controller cleared the latest flight for its descent. The aircraft had been coming in roughly every two hours, the pace having slowed as the flood of refugees had become a trickle and as such the flights had been more about bringing in supplies to ensure the mission to establish a camp if needed could continue.

The Red Legionnaires and their UC counterparts maintained their ever present patrol of the perimeter they'd established. Things had been quiet for the last couple of days, they'd seen in the distance various militia's but often it was impossible to tell whether they were the Hand of Emet or the Khalinz Brigades. Any that came too close had an express meeting with the Air Force and a few smouldering vehicles marked the landscape as reminders about what happened to anyone who threatened the camp.

The transport plane bounced as it touched down as came to a stop, as the rear ramp came down the troops on the ground scurried up the ramp and began unloading the supplies, boxes of dehydrated food, medical supplies, a few more tents, even a portable generator, all where stored away as the 38 refugees made their way onboard. The air loadmaster checked everyone was strapped in and settled before the pilot closed the rear ramp and prepared for take off. The aircraft took off effortlessly and climbed towards the clear blue sky, it was a routine operation right up until the horrible sound of metal breaking filled the air followed immediatley by flames and smoke. The pilot declared a "May Day" but there was nothing that could help him as the engine on the other side joined its brother on fire. The pilot did his best to hold the aircraft in the sky but before he could do much more the aircraft hit the three tops the wings breaking off as the aircraft was cartwheeled. A horrible sounds of an aircraft suddenly splintering wood filled the valley and a plume of smoke could be seen around three miles outside the perimeter.

"Bollocks" Tom Saxby hefted his webbing and rifle knowing some kind of medevac effort would be needed. No words where passed as a team of ten of Red's departed the refugee camp and began heading North towards the beacon like plume.

[Beatrice]

Rokkenjiman servicemembers, based from Queen Adriana Military Base, began their deployment to Lakhzovia, a process which would see 5,000 troops deployed to rout out the Hand of Emet. Following the build-up operations on the ground would be coordinated with Lakhzov and LISA forces, a process which the First Empire could not be certain of any sort of timetable. Another matter of concern would naturally be the operations of East Moreland and Ui Cennselaig; ensuring that Rokkenjiman operations would not interfere with their mission was also a priority of Imperial High Command. For these purposes Commodore Rowe would appoint a Liaison to ensure constant communication.

Meanwhile Beatrice recognized that a change of leadership in a time of war presented its own challenges. While Evanthe had initiated these actions, it would be upon her to see them to their conclusion. Certainly her relationship with Kadassa would be of some use in this regard; although he had his flaws it was most certain that a Lakhzovia without Kadassa would be the worse alternative. A very real concern of Imperial High Command was that any move to depose Kadassa would create a power vacuum, leaving the factions to fight for power and creating a situation which would lead to more civilian casualties and a destabilized region, perhaps for generations to come.

Thus as Rokkenjima combated the Hand of Emet and Lakhzov Development Corps close coordination with President Kadassa would be necessary, thus Beatrice had resolved herself to departing for Nakim to establish a sort of 'joint command' between the First Empire and the Republic. Her departure, indeed her arrival, to Lakhzovia had taken place without fanfare or notification to the press; these measures were necessary under the circumstances. Another aspect of her mission would be to work with Kadassa to develop a post-conflict plan, hopefully imposing upon Kadassa the importance of adopting moderation while proposing a Rokkenjiman military installation beyond the cessation of hostilities.

[Tamed_Untamed]

Colonel Rihana Al-Hijari and Secretary Sky Rich saw that their plane was getting closer. They were almost there. As their plane carried them all through the sky smoothly, their pilots started to make contact with the nearest airbase they could find. The message was simple

"This is Sirinisian Air Force, repeat, Sirinisian Air Force. This is Freeheat One, repeat, Freeheat One, requesting for clearance to land, Lakhzovian Airbase. Please respond?"

The message repeated as the pilots attempted to extend their message to any friendly airbase or airport that they could get to.

[Achkaerin]

Wing Commander Dawn Jennings sat perched on the edge of the table in one of the tents she was looking at a map on the wall of known Hand of Emet positions, the vast majority had red cross's through them indicating that the LISA strikes had been doing their job. She wasn't best pleased though, they were two months into a major air campaign and hadn't yet had all the information they'd asked for.

"Now it gets interesting." Captain Sarah Culshaw said stepping into the tent
"Why?" Dawn asked
"Latest UAV overflights indicate our targets are using Utman as human shields." Sarah said
"That's sooner than was considered likely." Dawn said
"Agreed." Sarah said as General Kakashi Fuji stepped into the tent
"I see that the latest intel says that the Hand of Emet are bedding into the civilian population." Kakashi said
"Yes sir that's what UAV overflights of target areas suggest." Sarah said "Permission to move to Phase two Bravo of the operation?"
"Permission granted." Kakashi said "Status of Nemesis?" he was giving the name of a specific operation that had been under planning for a good few weeks since before the air campaign had even started.
"Still waiting on Rokkenjima to provide a final location." Sarah said

"Ask them again then. In fact nag them if you have to but we can't ensure safety if they don't give the information." Kakashi said he paused "What about our targets?"
"Initial intel has rough ocations on three - Cyclops, Fire Giant, Frost Giant[1] and a more vague search area for Eagle here." Sarah said tapping the map after consulting her clipboard and intel details.
"That's three mid rankers and one mid to high." Dawn said "If I remember correctly."
"You'd be right." Kakashi said

So what was phase two Bravo in all of this? In simple terms a contingency considering a potential response from the Hand of Emet to the air campaign against them - in this case the embedding within the civilian Utman population would undoubtedly make them harder to precisely target from the air due to the risk of civilian casualties, not something anyone involved wanted. However if the Hand of Emet were going to use civilians as camouflage to hide themselves then that did change the board slightly didn't it? So what was the precise detail of this new phase? Initially a continuing surveillance operation to pin down the locations of their targets - much the same as what they'd already been doing in advance of authorised air strikes, but now once they had an idea where their targets were they had a new card to play and that card was ground troops, they'd still make decisions on whether an air strike was appropriate but there were many good reasons to take the option of a ground assault if it presented itself.

1.	OOC - for explanatory purposes consider these to be random people of interest from within the Hand of Emet I'm leaving precise details regarding identity to Lakh

[Lakhzovia]

Presidential Palace, Nakim

It was not the usual protocol for Kadassa to wait for guests, rather he would remain in his office and the guests would be brought to him; he believed that this impressed upon them the value of his time and instilled them with a subconscious sense of inferiority. This however was no ordinary guest and the President ensured that he was waiting at the state entrance of his palace for the arrival of the Empress Beatrice.

When finally her car arrived he straightened himself up in preparation "Your Majesty, words cannot describe how overjoyed I am to see you restored to your rightful position. I cannot impress upon you enough the distress I felt the last time I met you here when you were brought from your unjust imprisonment. I trust you have been well since your reversal of fortunes and that you remember kindly the friendship I have always extended to you." he said laying the charm on thick "If you would please allow me to escort you to the roof terrace I have had Lakhzov tea prepared for us, as I recall you are rather fond of it?"

The two of them and their retinue of personal security progressed through the building to the roof where a table had been set with the standard Lakhzov delicacies. Kadassa gestured for the Empress to take a seat before taking the opposing chair. He poured a cup of the cardamon and cinnamon infused tea for the Empress and then for himself, took a sip and having returned his cup to its saucer steepled him fingers.

"So. I believe there is much to discuss."


Khalin Airport

"This is Sirinisian Air Force, repeat, Sirinisian Air Force. This is Freeheat One, repeat, Freeheat One, requesting for clearance to land, Lakhzovian Airbase. Please respond?" came the inbound flight over the control tower radio. At first the air controllers were not quite sure how to react, the flight had been unscheduled yet had made it's way through controlled airspace without the IAF intercepting it; the men breathed a collective sigh of relief when General Shuziye strode into the control room flanked by other officers.

"Apologies boys, this flight was meant to be coming in to the Grazh aerodrome but an electrical failure there necessitated a divert. Please guide them in for me." said Shuziye to the nervous staff.

"Freeheat One. This is approach control KhalinAX1. You have been cleared for approach, please adjust your heading and altitude to..." Now that he had given clearance Shuziye ceased paying attention to the air traffic controllers who would work to bring the plane in to land at the airport and himself heading out of the control room to meet the Sirinisian delegation on the taxi way.

Waiting outside in the humid night air he saw the plane land and begin to taxi around to them with ground crews pushing mobile stairs into place as the plane came to a halt on the tarmac in front of him. The door opened and the delegation of military observers stepped out and down to the ground.

"Gentlemen." he said with a jovial tone "Welcome to Lakhzovia"

[Tamed_Untamed]

Presidential Palace, Nakim

It was not the usual protocol for Kadassa to wait for guests, rather he would remain in his office and the guests would be brought to him; he believed that this impressed upon them the value of his time and instilled them with a subconscious sense of inferiority. This however was no ordinary guest and the President ensured that he was waiting at the state entrance of his palace for the arrival of the Empress Beatrice.

When finally her car arrived he straightened himself up in preparation "Your Majesty, words cannot describe how overjoyed I am to see you restored to your rightful position. I cannot impress upon you enough the distress I felt the last time I met you here when you were brought from your unjust imprisonment. I trust you have been well since your reversal of fortunes and that you remember kindly the friendship I have always extended to you." he said laying the charm on thick "If you would please allow me to escort you to the roof terrace I have had Lakhzov tea prepared for us, as I recall you are rather fond of it?"

The two of them and their retinue of personal security progressed through the building to the roof where a table had been set with the standard Lakhzov delicacies. Kadassa gestured for the Empress to take a seat before taking the opposing chair. He poured a cup of the cardamon and cinnamon infused tea for the Empress and then for himself, took a sip and having returned his cup to its saucer steepled him fingers.

"So. I believe there is much to discuss."


Khalin Airport

"This is Sirinisian Air Force, repeat, Sirinisian Air Force. This is Freeheat One, repeat, Freeheat One, requesting for clearance to land, Lakhzovian Airbase. Please respond?" came the inbound flight over the control tower radio. At first the air controllers were not quite sure how to react, the flight had been unscheduled yet had made it's way through controlled airspace without the IAF intercepting it; the men breathed a collective sigh of relief when General Shuziye strode into the control room flanked by other officers.

"Apologies boys, this flight was meant to be coming in to the Grazh aerodrome but an electrical failure there necessitated a divert. Please guide them in for me." said Shuziye to the nervous staff.

"Freeheat One. This is approach control KhalinAX1. You have been cleared for approach, please adjust your heading and altitude to..." Now that he had given clearance Shuziye ceased paying attention to the air traffic controllers who would work to bring the plane in to land at the airport and himself heading out of the control room to meet the Sirinisian delegation on the taxi way.

Waiting outside in the humid night air he saw the plane land and begin to taxi around to them with ground crews pushing mobile stairs into place as the plane came to a halt on the tarmac in front of him. The door opened and the delegation of military observers stepped out and down to the ground.

"Gentlemen." he said with a jovial tone "Welcome to Lakhzovia"

The observers were surprised to be greeted as gentlemen. They both looked at each other and then giggled at the man. Only the Colonel chose to stop doing so and reached out to shake his hand, saying "Thank you. I am Rihana Al-Hijari and Secretary Sky Rich is with me on this mission from Sirinisi. I am a Colonel of the Sirinisian Armed Forces and the Secretary is with me because while I'd like to observe the conflict, she'd like to establish relationsi with Lakhzovia if that is acceptable to the government right now.

[Lakhzovia]

Having greeted the delegation the Sirinisian women before him looked at each other and began to giggle leaving Shuziye looking perlexed until an aide leaned in close and whispered in his ear. The General's face registered mild surprise before he collected himself.

"Please accept my apologies Ladies. In formal Lakhzov when one speaks addresses a person they use the pronouns of the office. As your titles carry the masculine gender in Lakhzov I, in my attempt to translate directly from my own language to yours have, I am told, accidentally misgendered you." said Shuziye attempting to move past the faux pas "Colonel Al-Hijari, you of course are here to observe our operations, you will be travelling with me westward toward our current field command centre. Secretary Rich, my aide will convey you east to Nakim where I know President Kadassa is keen to receive you."

[Beatrice]

"Sachim," Beatrice bowed, "words cannot portray how wonderful it is to see you again. Even through the view I had from a great distance I always held faith in the friendship we've built, and that between Rokkenjima and Lakhzovia. Certainly recent times have seen tribulation between us, and great trouble within your borders. It saddened me to see the manner in which Rokkenjima treated Lakhzovia in my absence and I can promise you today that Rokkenjima shall never again leave you in the cold, to face vicious wolves alone."

Pausing Beatrice continued, "The last time we met I was, how shall I say it, somewhat constrained. Let us not be mistaken I know you are not perfect, and I suspect that you have done things that are not as, shall we say, proper as they could have been. In spite of that, unlike my cousin, I feel that your actions have always been based firmly in pursuing what is best for your nation and people, and without you the great nation which Lakhzovia has become would devolve into a power vacuum, her society and infrastructure each being hollowed out through conflict. I could not bear for that to happen so, under this new understanding, allow us to proceed."

She smiled as she took the tea, "Indeed there is much to discuss, from our mutual enemies to our future. We shall have to coordinate fully to route our enemies from their positions, thus I have taken the liberty of fully restoring military and intelligence cooperation as called for in the Pyrettania-Nakim Accord. I also fear the foreign interests aligned against Lakhzovia, however, for us to address those challenges we must each be fully honest with each other. Lakhzovia isn't like other nations, and I recognize the actions you must take to preserve the Lakhzov state so please, when you speak with me rest assured that you can be honest with me without fear; it is necessary that we each know those crucial details so we may face these challenges alongside each other."

"Our primary threats remain the Hand of Emet and the Lakhzov Development Corps, their elimination mandated by their attacks against the First Empire. Following their pacification I wish for us to work to ensure that we may address mutual threats swiftly and decisively. To accomplish these aims I propose strengthening our military and intelligence cooperation, while also proposing a Rokkenjiman naval base to see the creation of a Krimeon Fleet. This would not be purely a Rokkenjiman fleet, but host a joint Lakhzov-Rokkenjiman task force to further our interoperability. As a Major Non-LISA ally of the First Empire Lakhzovia has before her several options to pursue, which we may also discuss at a later time should you so wish."

"As for the Hand of Emet, I need more locations, strategies they may employ, their friends abroad, how they source their financial resources; we need to place them in a position where they shall wither as we crush them into the ground. This, however, will not resolve the crisis; there remains the tensions with the Utmen to be addressed. Now I have some ideas to bring that issue to a peaceful resolution while also ensuring international scrutiny shifts from Lakhzovia and does not return. In short, we have much to do, however, if our minds are aligned I feel there is just as much that we can accomplish."