New Years Terror In Kressnian Yugoslavia

[Oncaro]

Belgrade, Kressnian Yugoslavia

Newly-appointed Press Secretary Matija Zorvic stood in front of a gaggle of reporters, but the air in the press room of the Novi Dvor was still. No-one made a sound, the faces of all present were stony and worried. Secretary Zorvic cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses, swallowing as he looked down at the speech prepared for him.

"Good evening," he said, fighting to keep his voice level. The evening was certainly not good. "This morning, January 1st, 2017... Belgrade's peaceful population was rocked by an explosion inside the Church of Saint Sava, which was... was only completed within the last week, and is one of the largest Orthodox churches on the planet. Around ten thousand people had shown up for the inaugural Sunday services, before... before several suicide bombers committed this unspeakable atrocity throughout the building, killing hundreds and wounding hundreds more. The family of Governor Dubronovic was present, but they, thankfully, were not harmed. They are currently under heavy guard, which is why I am the one speaking to you, and not Governor Dubronovic himself."

A reporter raised his hand.

"Yes?"

"Roman Ivanovic, Belgrade News. Is there... Is there an official number for how many people were killed in this attack?"

"Preliminary totals of those killed are currently sitting at eight-hundred people, along with at least seven-hundred more in critical condition. The numbers could be higher, as people are working tirelessly to find and help everyone who had been caught in the blasts. Needless to say, this... this is the worst attack on Kressnian soil in many years, and certainly a blow to us Balkan natives as well."

There was a murmuring of shock among the reporters, and Ivanovic spoke again.

"Do we know who orchestrated these bombings? Has anyone stepped forward to claim responsibility?"

"Not yet. Currently our best guess is that this attack was carried out by the Islamic State, or the Muslim Brotherhood; we believe this because at least one of the bombers shouted 'Allahu akbar' before detonating the bomb he was carrying, according to eyewitnesses. We also believe this may be in connection to the execution of Abu Haddad by the Chernigovan emperor, or the annexations of Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem by the Holy Britannian Empire, and may have been done in concert with the attacks on French North Africa earlier today as well," Zorvic replied. He paused, collecting himself, before speaking.

"Despite this tragedy that has befallen us, I would like to ask everyone to remain calm, and to do all you can to assist those that have been-- have been traumatized by this cowardly attack on innocent civilians in a house of God. We still have several days to go until Christmas, and it's the Administration's belief that... That we need to remember what that means now more than ever. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Jew, atheist, whatever... Your fellow man needs you. Please, let's not let each other down, not after this. Thank you."

There was no gaggle of questions as Secretary Zorvic left the stage. He exited stage left and immediately made to go toward the nearest hospital as he fought not to break down crying; his wife and son had both been injured in the attack, which he had not been present for as he himself was not particularly religious. But perhaps, he thought to himself, that needed to change.

Edited January 2, 2017 by Oncaro

[Shex]

In Al-Mukalla, the news was not taken well.

 

"More of them!". The turbaned reporter growled at Al-Jazeera's cameras. "More of the wolves who wear Allah's skin strike innocent lives."

 

He stared straight at the camera. "Do not fear, lambs of the world. The abominations can run and hide, or even cackle in their dens, but our scimitars will find them!"

[Emperor Tristar Majestica]

Official Statement:

 

Hungadada is outraged and disgusted by this barbaric attack. Terrorism has no place in this world. We know all too well the pains of being attacked, which is why we can truly say: we know how you feel. The Emperor offers his heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of victims of this horrific attack. Hungadada will be sending medical teams from the Hungadadian Red Cross, special forces for security, and forensic investigators to aid in the investigation of this attack. If anything else is wanted, we will provide it. Hungadada stands shoulder to shoulder with Kressnia.

[Karlis Ulmanis]

The Republic of Latvia offers its most heartfelt condolences to the People of Kressnian Yugoslavia and firmly condemns this barbaric attack. Prime Minister Dankers offers the total cooperation of Latvian security forces, should Kressnian Yugoslavia require their assistance in tracking the movements and activities of potential suspects. 

[Oncaro]

In an official statement from Governor Dubronovic, Kressnian Yugoslavia's citizens are grateful for the support of the Hungadadan and Latvian governments, and welcomes any aid they and others wish to give.

[Shex]

In an official statement from Governor Dubronovic, Kressnian Yugoslavia's citizens are grateful for the support of the Hungadadan and Latvian governments, and welcomes any aid they and others wish to give.

 

Al-Mukalla, Brotherhood of Planets:  Arcadian-Yemeni-Omani (AYO) Union

 

"It seems the Abominations did more damage than anticipated to our Kressnian brethren."

 

"Well, we have many recruits; young men and women eager to test their skills.  We should send them to help our brothers and sisters up north.  Should more of the Abominations come, they will find our swords alongside Kressnian defenses!"

 

"...  Be sure to fill our cargo holds with Kebabs, and packaged Mandi as well.  No civilization should be deprived of Yemeni cuisine."

 

"My grandmother made the best Mandi."  *Nods*  "If we fail to bring our friends that particular recipe, our generosity would be false and would bring shame to Allah's eyes."

 

"It would be best to install many tandoors on Yugoslavian soil.  That's far more practical."

 

"Aye!  Very well, then!  Bring our best ingredients AND the tools needed to construct tandoori ovens.  WE will simply MAKE Kebabs and Mandi on site."

 

"...  And Chicken, don't forget the Chicken..."

 

"That's...  That's Indian Cuisine, Brother.  Stop misrepresenting our ancestral cuisine.  You shame our Ancestors!"

 

"Many- Many apologies!  But it's delicious."

 

"That it is.  But it is not Yemeni.  Enough talk, make the arrangements, quickly!"

 

Not long after this conversation, multiple squadrons of Helix Gunships began heading for Belgrade.

Edited January 3, 2017 by Shex