*Jarrow Island - one of the few small islands on planet New London - was known to contain the Surgical Reconstruction Center or like the people that live there are used to call it - the SRC. In the past years this island was rarely visited. It was occupied by few scientists which were working on several low paid projects about human medical treatment. During the war with Kusari the situation on this island changed drastically due to the need of a more advanced treatment methods. Shortly before the end of the war with Kusari and the beginning of the war with Gallia - the Queen has bestowed upon Sir Piett a peerage, as Lord of Jarrow on New London. The newly appointed lord in charge of the island and director of SRC, now known as Baron Piett, decided to push further the possibilities of this facility by investing nearly all of his family wealth in projects mixing nano-technology with medical treatment. The results were astonishing so the projects had to shift their nature from "Civilian" treatment in to "Military" and later to be marked as "Classified". Part of these projects are about the creation of specific battle armors, infused with nanobots and stealth technology, to further assist the commandos of the armed forces and the top agents of the Bretonian Intelligence. The efforts of Baron Piett gave many results and in this way - more funding from the Crown. Later the Baron has managed to create business deals and hoard more credits - further strengthening the flow of resources needed to support the normal life of the scientists on his island. From nearly an abandoned facility the SRC was turned in to a secret factory for technological marvels. *
*Landing Platform One was far away from the castle-like structure in the middle of Jarrow Island. Although there were several other hangars located closer to the main building Baron Piett ordered his important guests to be forwarded to this landing area. He was eager to show off the whole property he is managing for his Queen to his new possible future friend.*
Black Trooper Captain: Obsidian Alpha, report! Black Trooper Alpha: Alpha here, ma'am. Black Trooper Captain: What is the situation on the Landing Platform, is it clear? Black Trooper Alpha: The transport for planet Sprague is still here but is currently preparing to leave, ma'am. Black Trooper Captain: Captain Moore is playing with my patience. Inform him to clear the area in ten minutes or else will forward his next call to the Baron. Black Trooper Alpha: Copy that. On my way.
*William Moore, captain of a Small Transport was about to leave Landing Platform One. His cargo contained Light Arms and Light Armors for the Bretonia Police stationed on planet Sprague, Omega-3. There BPA were occupied to arm the local refugees and form a militia in order to further booster the defense of the system. The militia was known as Civilian Defense Initiative (or in short the CDI). There the Bretonian Police were having a shortage of supplies and were expecting a delivery soon. *
Black Trooper Alpha: Captain, the transport is leaving. The landing area is clear. Black Trooper Captain: Copy that. Hold your ground. I will inform the Baron and we will join you there.
The Obsidian Guard, captain Khan (left) followed by BT-Alpha (right)
*The Black Troopers, aka the "Obsidian Guard", are a private security organization created by Baron Piett after his retirement from active service within the Armed Forces. Nearly all of these troopers were taken directly from his former flagship - HMS-Royal Sovereign. Back then they were part of his security team on board - now they continue to serve him willingly and without question. Over the years their affection and respect towards Piett turned them in to fanatics who live with one goal in mind - to protect him at all cost. Aside from that they are loyal and highly trained soldiers with years of experience. Now their numbers are no more than fifty men.*
Black Trooper Captain: Baron Piett, the landing area is clear. Shall we proceed? Jarrow: About time. Captain Moore should not have refueled his ship in the last minute. He and I will have a little talk once he returns. Now then, our guests are to arrive at any moment. Let's not make them wait.
*Baron Piett left his office on top of the "Sage Tower" followed by captain Khan. Together they headed down the road leading to the landing pad. There the black trooper alpha was waiting obediently but he quickly joined his captain in formation behind the Baron. Far away on the horizon a small dot appears and quickly starts to form the shape of a bretonian atmosphere shuttle.
The SIS delegation is on this shuttle but most importantly - director Weber himself - and Baron Piett was looking forward to meet him in person.*
The shuttle trembled as it decended through the rain of New London, wind battered the sides of the ship as it made it's way down through the various layers of cloud. Soon the turbulance subsided and the shuttle had a smooth approach in. Weber shifted in his seat, eager to get out of what he considered a flying coffin. His security detail, which consisted of four men, steped out of the ship first and, once they were satisfied with the area, signaled the Director to follow, which he did.
Stepping out with ease, he surveyed his surroundings, a tall, grim building stood before him, with two guards armed to the teeth, this did not bother him. His agents were trained well enough to handle whatever might come at them. Still, his curiosity was held by the building, and the nature of the meeting he was to attend. The air was cold in the shadow of the complex and he and his group moved to the center of the landing pad while a group of armed men and women approached. His guards made no visable attempt to touch their side arms or even their retractable blades, but Weber knew that they were ready all the same.
*Captain Khan was observing carefully Weber's security team at the moment they set foot on the platform. These four men were the only escort the director of SIS appointed to join him for this meeting. They were definitely veterans with experience and from their behavior - bold ones - which was to be expected from anyone in service to the Queen. Khan knew Piett for nearly 20 years. One thing she learned from all these years in service - to never hesitate if he gave her an order. Maybe that is why she remained on this position for so long. If these guards were enemies to the Crown in any way and Piett gave her orders to neutralize them - she would simply do that in an instant. Her modified NPT-V8 stealth armor, manufactured on this island, would make sure none see her coming. Nevertheless that was not the case now. These people were bretonians and definitely not the enemy. Khan felt guilty for even thinking about how to kill these people as quickly as possible if the order was shot.
She was observing the escort for a moment and once she saw director Weber she coughed and contacted her colleague by using the security channel established between the Obsidian Guard only*
Captain Khan: Alpha, this is director Weber. We must keep him safe until he leaves the island - this is our second priority. Black Trooper Alpha: Copy that ma'am. But by the look of his escort I doubt he would need extra protection. Captain Khan: You know very well this is not for us to decide. Just follow the orders. Black Trooper Alpha: Of course...wait, when was the last time I did not follow orders? Captain Khan:*sighs* Now is not the time for chit chat... Black Trooper Alpha: My apologies ma'am. Lets get started and secure the director *chuckles*. Captain Khan: You are a lost cause. Perhaps I have to replace you with Sergent...
*Khan was interrupted the moment Baron Piett begun his speech.*
Jarrow: Director Weber! My apologies for disrupting your schedule but we have much to talk about. Before we begin I would like to scan you all - it will only take you a minute. *he signaled to his two guards*
*Captain Khan sighted the signal and gave order to her colleague to go and scan the five men. Alpha holstered his rifle on his back, took a small gadget located in his utility belt and moved forward to begin the scanning procedure. Seconds later he yelled "All are clear sir" and returned back to his position next to his captain. Piett was satisfied with the results but because of his helmet - that was impossible to guess. Due to the specific topic of this meeting he had to be sure no nomad affiliated subjects are on the scene. The last thing he would want was a Wilde agent to hear about his plans.
He stepped forward to confront Weber*
Jarrow: Now then, allow me to welcome you to this island, which I am currently governing in behalf of her Royal Majesty - the Queen. I am extending my hand to you as a friend and may together we throw more light where there is darkness. *Piett raised his right hand. From his helmet unnoticed by those around him, he was staring directly at Weber's eyes*
Of the three that approached a tall man was the only one who spoke. After ordering a scan of him and his agents he began a speech that was in stark contrast to their surroundings. Jarrow spoke about cooperation and working together, something that Weber was surprised at, given the current situation. After Jarrows speech he extended his hand in welcome. Before accepting it however, Weber spoke with a polite but neutral tone
I thank you for seeing me sir, understand however that before you welcome me into this place with open arms there are conditions to my arrival. As you can see, these agents are my security, and they will come with me where I go, except when I tell them otherwise. I appreciate that this is building is under your authority and I appreciate that you have your own guards. But all the same, these men are tasked with one job, and they will do it regardless. I do hope you understand. If you do not, then now would be the time for me to take my leave.
With that, Weber met the extended hand carefully. While these meetings were not unusual, as bretonia had a great many people who enjoyed their privacy, he did feel slightly more intimidated than usual.
*Piett heard what Weber just said. The director was clear - he was insisting to keep his own security squad close by during the whole meeting. Of course that was an issue especially during the private talk about Code Blue. Nevertheless Piett could understand Weber and respected his decision. If he was in his place he would definitely make the same request.*
Jarrow: Director, you seem unsettled. You may keep your escort until we reach my office. I would definitely do the same if I were you. Nevertheless I sense a slight distrust between us or perhaps this whole meeting is confusing you too much. I assure you - there is nothing to worry about. All around you I've earned thanks to Her Majesty and my never ending support to the Crown. The Queen herself trusts in me, I encourage you to do the same. I have a reputation to maintain and a lot more is to be done for the betterment of Bretonia. So, I suggest we clear this small distrust and move forward for there is work to be done.
*With these words Piett gave Weber a strong handshake*
The hand that grasped his own was firm and strong, but not so much to be aggressive. Jarrow raised a good point, no one made it this far if they were not loyal, sneaky and politically shrewd maybe, but disloyal? no. By that logic then, Weber saw that, as of yet, there was little reason not to trust him.
Very well then. Let us talk and see what we can arrange. But please, let us move out of this gloom, I suspect this will be a fairly in depth conversation.
With that, Weber released Jarrow's hand and waited for the tall man to lead the way.
*Weber's response revealed a change of hearts. Early he was polite and neutral and yet somehow - distrustful. After Piett made some good points about himself it seems the director understood with whom he was dealing with - someone loyal with no doubt. Someone that was worth to be trusted until proven otherwise.*
"The Sage Tower", Baron Piett's office
Jarrow: Gloom? This grim, silent place far away from preying eyes is not to your liking? *chuckles* And I was beginning to think we have a lot in common. No matter - allow me to be your guide until we reach my office. *points at the top of the huge building located in the middle* It is known as the "Sage Tower" - there we store our latest prototypes for testing until they are ready for further production. None can go there without my permission and overall nobody else than my top scientists are allowed to enter. I guess it is of no need to add that it is very well protected as well. It consists of several levels, where my office is located on the first.
1) *Piett paused for a second to see if Weber would have anything to say*
*Minute later he continued*
Jarrow: You see director, when I arrived here on this island the complex was operational at a skeleton crew. Due to the war with Kusari the funds were transferred to the Armed Forces and BMM ship building operations - that shut down nearly all special projects in Bretonia. I did my best to find resources and credits thanks to the assistance of some rich nobles that are loyal and would sacrifice their wealth for the betterment of the House...instead to keep it for themselves. The more funds we could store, the more scientists would be made possible to come which in return would allow us to work on more projects. After the outbreak of the war with Gallia and the loss of Leeds, a lot of people were eager to do something, anything to help. So we ended up with a lot more encouraged personnel all over Bretonia submitting to come here and work to save more lives. This whole complex was build to act as a staging area for all wounded military personnel. It was rarely operation but the two wars is keeping us all busy now.
*He pointed west at one of the bigger buildings with a lot of windows*
Jarrow: This over there is the Intensive treatment. It consist of many cells and small laboratories for high level of treatment. Usually in this wing are sent people with mental illness, mental disorder, nervous attacks or critically injured. The last reports from SRC proves that by using the newest methods of treatment as well as nano cell fixing procedures, there is 80% chance that people sent to the Intensive Wing will be restored to normal for a moderate amount of time.
2) *Piett paused again to hear Weber's opinion*
*He continued by pointing at the building in front of the Landing Platform 1*
Jarrow: This is the Surgery Wing. It consist of more than hundred surgery rooms as well as thousands of Healing Pods. The Healing pods are glass globe-like objects 2 meters wide and high. Together they form "The Hive", a place where thousands can be healed at the same time. The last reports of SRC proves that the new nano serums, used by "The Hive" healing pods, can restore a medium damaged crew of a Dunkirk for less than 2 days. The Critical injured, depending on the level of damage, may be healed for less than week. If there is a huge risk for their lives the people are sent directly to the Intensive wing, where the period necessary for recovery is unknown.
3) *Piett turned at Weber to hear his thoughts*
*Several minutes later the small group were closing to the main building in the center of the complex. Piett and Weber were having a small talk. The moment the building was in few dozen meters away from them Piett said*
Jarrow Island - city complex
Jarrow: This main building is known as the Research Wing. It is the primary building of the complex. It is linked with the Intensive, Surgery and Scientist's Wings. It consist of multiple research laboratories equipped with the best and most expensive technology available. The primary goal of this Wing is to increase the healing procedures by reducing the time necessary for a person to be restored completely. That can be achieved by researching new serums and knowledge about the nano world. The secondary goal is to infuse the nano engineering within a several types of battle armors allowing the soldiers of the Armed Forces or the agents of our Intelligence Service to withstand harsh situations and possibly - survive a battle...or return alive and broken at best. Which I am sure you would agree is better than having them killed. We have a lot of success with these armors. Around 60'000 were donated to the Armed Forces last year and the reports from several battles where these armors were used are...encouraging.
*4) Piett awaited Weber's response about these matters*
*The group was in front of the main building - the Research Wing - but before they enter the main hall, Piett pointed at the far east complex of several skyscrapers-like buildings*
Jarrow: These buildings over there are forming what we call the Scientists Quarters. There our scientists and researchers can live a normal and healthy life for all their needs are satisfied at best as we can afford. The Quarters are close to the main building in order to increase the scientist's speed of work and to help them act quickly in critical and emergency situations. With this our small tour is at an end. Now we will enter the main building and proceed to my office where we could discuss in peace the real topic of this meeting.
*Piett was standing in front of the main doors while talking. He paused for a second, moved away and made a gesture to director Weber and his group by pointing the doors with a slight nod - referring to a sort of courtesy*
Jarrow: You are my guests, so after you, director.
*Director Weber entered first, escorted by his four guards. Piett and his two guards followed them shortly. Together they headed for the elevator which would take them to the top of the Research Wing - the "Sage Tower", where Piett's office was located. There the real discussions were about to begin*
Jarrow decided that talking about the facility where they current stood would be the first oder of business, true Weber was quite interested in the area. He had heard the rumors, same as most SIS agents, but he'd never thought actually check and see if they were real. Of course, if he had checked, he would have probably been stopped by someone in the government, if not Jarrow himself.
The sage tower was the most obvious structure, it loomed over the island like a prison watch tower, although that could be attributed partly to the weather, which did the architecture of the building little justice. Jarrows introduction to the building served only to make Weber wonder what lay within, although he assumed that time would answer that question.
Intensive treatment and surgical wing were two things that interested Weber greatly. And he had to ask
How possible is it for my agents to be treated here if they could not be treated elsewhere? The ones I have are very good, I'd hate to loose them or demobilize them if there was a chance to get them back on their feat.
Finally came the research wing. While Weber listened, he pondered over whether or not he wanted to share with Jarrow the Jump Hole findings Dagon had discovered. He made a note to bring it up later, if the man stayed true to his word.
Thomas, Hooper. You two stay here and mind the lift. Smith and Jameson will come with me up top. Weber said to his guards after entering the building. Shall we minister? he said turning to Jarrow, waiting for him to enter the elevator.
*Now that director Weber and his guards were inside the building, captain Khan contacted her Obsidian Guard troops to return to their stations and secure the perimeter as they did everyday. Their secondary priority for today was to safely move the director's group inside - and so they've done.*
Captain Khan: Attention troops! Return to your stations and proceed with your duties as normal. *she turned at her companion* Benedict you stay here and make company to our guests. I will go with the Baron to his office and supervise the rest of Weber's escort. Black Trooper Alpha: Well, copy that ma'am. Captain Khan: You have something to say? Black Trooper Alpha: Maybe I do. You know I... Captain Khan: Enough, Benedict. You must be happy this conversation is secured otherwise you would've ashamed us all with your babbling. Black Trooper Alpha: My apologies ma'am. Go do your duty and I will do mine - sharing some battle stories with Thomas and Hooper near the lift. Captain Khan: You are a lost cause. Black Trooper Alpha: You said that already. But don't worry, I know you love me either way.
Baron Piett's office, level 1 in the Sage Tower
* "Shall we minister?"- Weber said from within the elevator. Piett turned at captain Khan and nodded. She understood the sign and followed him. The Research Wing was a huge building of nearly 50 floors. The last 5 levels were part of the Sage Tower, where at the 1st was located the Baron's office and his personal quarters. The elevator was build in specific location within the main building. One of its sides consisted of armored glass revealing a breathtaking view of the complex the higher it goes. The lift was fast and it took the group around thirty seconds to reach the 1st level of the top structure. Before the elevator was a short corridor leading to the baron's office. Piett was the last to enter, so now he was the first to come out. He made a sign to those behind him to follow him until they reached his office. Once they were at the door Piett turned.*
Jarrow: Like we agreed early, director, your guards are to remain here. My captain will make them company until our meeting is over.
*Piett entered his office first followed by Weber. The room was decorated very simply with carpet and walls painted in crimson red. A white metal desk was located at the end of the room in front of a huge window revealing breathtaking view of the half island and the ocean around it. Small white couch with a table were located per each side of the office and above them - bretonian flags. Around the flags could be seen paintings representing the Baron's life while being in the Bretonia Royal Navy (BRF|), the Armed Forces (BAF|), Fleet Admiral, his peerage awards, present achievements as Minister of Defense and some with the royal family. The newest addition was a painting of Piett and his son - James Frederick Albert William Piett - during a special meeting with the Queen, where his son was bestowed with the title of Prince of Bretonia. Aside from these details the office was clean and orderly in alike with it's owner's mind.
Piett moved behind his desk and sat down pointing to Weber one of the three chairs in front so he could join him. The director moved calmly and sat down as well.*
Jarrow: Director Weber, there are indeed a lot of topics to be discussed today but we are both busy men and I am sure we both value our time. Don't get me wrong, your presence here is of importance and I am willing to sacrifice as much time as needed. As minister of defense I need to be well informed in order to act swiftly and accurately. Now then, let us begin. The first topic would be about our old enemies within Bretonia - the Gaians, the Molly, and those that dare to assault us from the south - the Coalition, the Corsairs and the Hessians. I am aware you are not representing the fleets of the Armed Forces but I am eager to hear the visions of your organization...your subtle proposals of how do you plan to deal with these terrorists, rebels, fanatics and pirate scum flying around.
*WIth these words Piett laid down on his chair and begun listening to Weber*
Weber ordered his remaining men to wait outside the office while he entered and, while the Minister was talking, sat down and listened. The portraits around the room finally reassured the director that the man he was speaking too was nothing but loyal to Bretonia. And so, he made a point not to spare any detail aside from infromation that only the Queen herself was to hear.
The Gaians are of relatively little note Minister. They have been largely confined to the taus, fighting our common enemy no doubt. Whatever bases they have left in Bretonia are probably in disarray or are being overhauled to accomodate long range patrols. Of course, they do like to remind us that they are around, but for now, it would seem that the bulk of their forces are focused in the Edinburgh system. Attempting to dissuade the French from looking at Gaia no dout.
The Mollies have been quiet as of late. The biggest problem we have with them is their infestation in the Poole system. It makes any serious attempt at establishing crown control over that system very difficult indeed.
The Hessians are quiet lately. Attacks are low and we believe they are begining a push somewhere in the deep omega against the Corsairs, likewise, SCRA attacks have also decreased somewhat. On the other hand, Corsair attacks have increased rapidly, Cambridge is a particular hot spot right now. We suspect there is a base somewhere in that system, although we have yet to find it if there is one. I hate to bring you bad news minister but the Norfolk fleet is hard pressed to counter the growing crime problem in Cambridge.
As to how we deal with the problems minister, I'm afriad there is not quick fix as I'm sure you're aware. Our enemies have us surrounded and are unusually unified. It's not about numbers sir, it's about taking away their cause to fight. Assualting bases is one thing, solving the root causes of why our enemies fight us is quite another. Right now, our biggest problem is the French and the Corsairs. We know too little to do anything about the Corsair forces however, the Gallic position has one key weakness. The Tau-31 gate, if we disable that, then their supply lines will be cut. It may be enough to delay another push or we can begin a counter offensive. Our link with Liberty will soon be overrun, at which point Rheinland will become our new best friend. I need to tell you sir, that our relationship with Rheinland is weak, the Omega-3 treaty is in a shocking state and we still have no joint policing of the Omega-3 or omega-7 systems. If we are to win this war, we need to be far, far more organised than we are currently.