Crackdown: After the War (CLOSED)

[New Hayesalia]

They say the Zellatian Civil War killed millions, irradiated cities. It destroyed the fabric of a nation, and made an uneasy stance on multidiverse parties a horrible reality. Being one of the millions tortured by the FSP, I can say that we cared little for political strife. All we knew was that someone would want us to be dead. We either joined a party and hoped for success or we knew we'd be tortured, whether it be by official figures or the extremists.

After the New Hayesalians and the Zealites cleared the cities of the Forward Shade Party, life didn't return to normal. Homes still stand abandoned and falling into decay, although the money and food being shipped in from New Hayesalia was helping to keep us free of worrying about starving. We only cared to rebuild, even though millions of our best and brightest had left.

Some major FSP commanders left, the ones who weren't killed or captured by the guns of our allies. Where they are now, only the ancestors know...

- Zabajid Uzdehol, Zellatian writer.

---

SOUTH-EAST PILTOMANA, NEW HAYESALIA

The small praying mantis was perfectly camouflaged against the light green grass of the Piltomanan grasslands. Like most of New Hayesalia, the short grasses of these plains undulated into small hills interspersed with pockets of forests. It was overcast today, spittles of rain dashing the lush land. The mantis cared little for these details of his surrounds. His head was transifxed, looking forwards, still and aware. Gradually, a blight beat could be heard in the air. Mechanic, unnatural. It grew louder, louder, until the source become apparent. Two OH-58 Vanguard scout helicopters. Seen through the open cabin were four armed men, in green overalls and armed with assault rifles and shotguns. A second helicopter dashed past, wearing the same markings- those of the New Hayesalian National Police.

The black and white painted choppers were fllowed by three cars- Pseudonaja protected mobility vehicles. Making use of military tactics, these police were the elite Special Response Team. They'd already been briefed on their objective- ex-General Zannaz Ezekeyel. He'd previously been the commander of the Zellatian Air Force transport wing, and was a key to the logistics of the FSP- the party that had started the Zellatian Civil War, killing millions. The New Hayesalians were quickly involved to assist their Zellatian allies, who had been brought to their knees. When the FSP were defeated, he'd moved into hiding in New Hayesalia of all places. It had been a lucky scoop, but the NH Government had found him.

The late afternoon raid was a surprise to the General. Helicopters and armoured cars were surrounding him quickly, before he was tasered to the ground. His bodyguards had been quickly arrested, one shot with a taser just before he could pull out an MP5. The entire raid had been quick and easy.

The ones to come would not be.

[Zellatia]

Zellton City, Zellatia Proper, The Democratic Empire of Zellatia

Emperor Zellan had sighed in relief when he had heard of the raid against General Ezekeyel. He had been known as an expert at getting anything from one place to another, only to betray Zellatia by siding with the Insurrectionists. He may have been in the air force, but that didn't stop him from commanding several squadrons during the war. His capture in New Hayesalia of all places lowered the list of enemies of the state who had revealed themselves during the Civil War and had remained incognito or at the very least not dead, was down to 10. Ten generals and nobles, all of whom were dangerous and likely able to take revenge should they want to. Ezekeyel was only the beginning, there were still more to find and hunt down.

The obvious next choice, obviously, was Admiral Gerith Hydronsus, of the Garrisson's Pride. The ship had gone missing after the war, meaning it had gotten enough time to repair and flee before the war was completely over. The intelligence gathered also indicated that he headed towards Fruria before disappearing, meaning he could have either thought to carve out a pirate bastion of sorts, or perhaps more likely, sought refuge with the Governor of West Destronika. Either was likely, but the intelligence said he'd be there by now, somewhere. How hard was it to find a giant ship on the coast of a continent like that anyways? He transmitted the information to both Zealites and New Hayesalians who had the clearance. He would be the next target.

[New Hayesalia]

PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE, REVNAMI
The Prime Minister's office was quite lovely, especially for a blind man. It looked over the ever changing skline of the clockwork city of Revnami, soaking in the weathers radiant beauty, the interlined colors of the city, and the sparkling harbours and hill five kilometres away depending on the time of day. The building itself was on the top floor of the Parliament Complex, an intricate, modern and green structure, something that represented New Hayesalia. At the wall, away from the desk, there were plush white armchairs for meetings and a scroll with Japanese text on it, stretching the wall, a projector overhead to give lectures on the other white wall. Hayes held a deep belief in karma, like many New Hayesalians. It was interlaced with kanji and hirigana script reading "Sangé ni wa sannen no tsumi mo hôrobu (One confession effaces the sins of even three years.), "Hotoké mo motowa bonbu. (Even the Buddha was originally but a common man)." or his personal favorite "Mekura hebi ni ojizu." (The blind man does not fear the snake)

Sitting in the simple and modern office were three people. Hayes, Fleet Admiral of the NHN Garrick Flynn and Air Chief Marshal Jordan Scotts. With two of the world's greatest military minds in the room, Hayes brought an entire arsenal of modern weapons- the New Hayesalian Military. Their target was the Garrisson's Pride, a rebel Zellatian and now FSP battleship. It had been damaged with an airstrike in the Civil War, and thought sunk. The BAMS feed said otherwise.

BAMS FEED
The Broad Area Maritime Surveillance. An RQ-4 Global Hawk drone, remade to provide the service of large areas of land and sea. This drone had one express mission right now- track down the Garrisson's Pride, hunting it off the coast of the Zellatian claim to Fruria. Indeed, their empire was expanding.

It had taken a week of work, linked with S-10 and satellite surveillance. But the New Hayesalian Air Force had done it. The Garrisson's Pride was spotted. A symbol of the FSP, their prize and their hostage. Theft from the Zellatian people.

"The Zellatian Navy gave us the go-ahead." said Fynn in the PM's office. "We can sink her. The Animaliston is already on station. Our Operations Plan calls for two strike fighters and S+R helicopters to conduct this mission. Once you give us the go-ahead, we can complete the mission and sink the Pride."

Hayes took little time to reply, having already seen the plan.

Go ahead.

NHS Animaliston, ACHILLES-CLASS AIRCRAFT CARRIER

It was cloudy, raining today. In this grey part of the ocean, where few things lived and fewer thrived, a single aircraft carrier was sailing. The NHS Animaliston, an Achilles-Class aircraft carrier. Carrying the unique navalised F-22N Sea Raptor and the F-15SENHN Eagle fighter, as well as Caracal and Chinook helicopters, the Achilles was perfectly positioned for this mission.

Coming up the elevators, onto the wet and hard surface of the deck was an F-22N Sea Raptor. Surrounded by figures in a rainbow of colours, each detailing their role on the deck, the Sea Raptor was joined on deck by other Raptors, their wings folded and held down in the fairly hard rain. The ensign of the New Hayesalian Navy flew, it's white backing being turned almost grey in the whipping rain.

The F-22N, joined by another already on deck, were armed with advanced anti-ship missiles- the CYJ-130 Eagle Strike anti-ship missile. The same one used in the last attack. With two missiles each, and advanced ECM countermeasures, these aircraft would be stealhily able to approach the Pride and sink her.

The two grey aircraft were launched from the deck in quick succession, launched forward by the electromagnetic cannon and sent towards the throne of gods. On the deck, the elevators were quickly put back to work- lifting helicopters on the deck. Eight Caracals and two Chinooks, each loaded with their crew and a number of armed sailors- just in case the FSP sailors decided to become violent.

Once the missile struck, search and rescue would be on station within about ten minutes. The Zellatian Navy, similar to the the New Hayesalian Navy, trained their people to tread water for at least fifteen. Ideally they'd take to lifeboats. Otherwise, the choppers would use their FLIR to help locate the sailors in distress.

The F-22s had been deployed. In half an hour, cruising at more then Mach 1, they would be in position to launch. Hopefully, another flame of the Insurrection would be extinguished.

[Zellatia]

Mechanolis, West Destronika

Governor Dominik Ambrose was not a happy man, nor had he ever really been one. He'd been even more unhappy when the Garrisson's Pride had entered the harbor outside of the city, demanding repairs. He'd gotten news at some point regarding a traitorous ship, and knew it was the Garrisson's Pride, but... one of his cousins was onboard the ship, as a captive. He'd been one of the few crewmen not to follow their captain into betraying the country, and he'd assumed that he was dead. However, with the ship now in his harbor, he had no choice but to protect them while they were here, regardless of how he felt about the FSP.

Admiral Hydronsus was by far the most perceptive captain he'd ever had the displeasure of meeting. The rebel had already commandeered several vessels in the harbor and had painted and modified them to look like his own ship, leading to quite a bit of confusion. A Zealite team, sent in from his governor's office, never came back. If they were still alive, they were now prisoners, just as the rest of the men they'd kidnapped. Worse still, his son was among the hostages, and several of the locals had joined up with the FSP here, one of the chapters of the FSP that had not actively done anything during the war. He was, in effect, forced to guard his citizens, his family, and this traitor.

He had a feeling there would be trouble soon.....especially with the cluster of ships surrounding the Garrisson's Pride, filled with hostages.

[New Hayesalia]

EN ROUTE TO STRIKE ZONE

F-22N pilot Lieutenant Franz Heshner had been left airborne, disappointed, and in a stealth aircraft in radar range. The raid had been called off, when Navy HQ recieved word that the blast radius of the Garrisson's Pride, in harbour, would enanger loyalist sailors in other FSP ships. To conclusion was that the airstrike couldn't go on without risking lives of innocent people. The return to the NHS Animaliston was accompanied in the two jets by the pilots talking, expressing their dissatisfaction on not beig able to make their first- and maybe only- kill of a battleship. "And I was so excited to watch her burn on the news." Heshner had said, scanning his instruments.

They landed within a minute of each other, their landing gear catching the arresting cable of the massive ship each on the first go- a considerable achievement made possible by months of practice- and had their aircraft parked with all the others away from the whipping rains, wings folded. They'd already shut down the engines for towing, and clambered out. Other pilots were standing and waiting to see them, men and women of all different looks. When they'd heard the mission was aborted over the radios, they too had been disappointed. Another lost chance to eliminate the FSP.

But rest assured, the New Hayesalian Navy would sink the Pride.

C-130J, OUTSIDE ZELLATIAN RADAR RANGE

Near midnight in the skies over West Destroniki, and over the seas to it's east. Cloudy, and drizzling with rain as it had all day. No ambient light was near available. Perfect weather, then, for this elite unit. While the 100th Special Operations Legion belonged to the Army, one of the attached units was a group of expert sailors and naval officers, trained for maritime observations. The Air Force cargo plane, and the four men inside, were brought into action within three hours, and had been in the air for roughly six more. Their operation was about to begin.

While the airstrike had been aborted, this job would ideally sink the Pride without risking the lives of the sailors in the vessels adjacent to it. Known as frogmen in most military circles, this was the job of the NSOG. Naval Special Operations Group. Specially trained to plant and disable mines, operate heavily armed boats for personnel transportation and blow up ships in harbour, the NSOG were equipped to kill ships.

These sailors were dressed in fully black swim gear, although they did not yet wear their flippers. Their rebreathers- lighter and more supplied than SCUBA kits while not expelling bubbles- and their other equipment was in the rigid hull inflatable boat in the loading bay of the C-130J. It was almost funny- to see the kind of lycra-dressed men holding sub-machine guns and and sitting in an aircraft barefoot. Their boats also held the charges they would use to destroy the Pride.

"Red light!" called the loadmaster, sited near to the rear of the aircraft. "Goggles on!"

The four sailors clipped their military-spect goggles to their faces, and readied themselves for the operation ahead. They were using the Gabriel Automatic Deployment system- at a medium altitude they didn't need oxygen, but they did have enough room to track to their boat. Which, at the call of the loadmaster, was released from the back of the open airplane, a number of parachutes opening to guide it safely to sea. It was quickly followed by the four bare-footed sailors with guns.

The first was Able Seaman Harris Grove. A young, fit man with brownish-red hair and a serious face, he had joined the NSOG a little over two years ago and had served in Missouri and Zellatia. The second man was Able Seaman Rich Emane, a man in his late 30s who had served as a submariner, aviation technician and communications officer before finding his niché as a frogman. His green eyes and brown hair could pierce souls, they said.

Third was Sub-Lieutenant Imam Gallagher, the officer in command of his crew. About 30 years of age with a bald head and long face,and a thin neck it seemed, he had passed NSOG selection only barely, going on to be considered one of the best in the unit. Lastly was Leading Seaman Tim Ecclostone, who would be responsible for driving the RHIB to the drop-off and pick up oints- it wasn't like these guys could swim 50 kilometres.

The landings took little time, and even in the miserable though light rain the NSOG were happy to be sent into operations. They knew this was an exceptionally important job. The C-130J had already left to go home. As they thought of this, they knew they were alone. The four men began to set up the .50 calibre heavy machine gun just in case, and unpack three sets of diving gear. This included underwater charges of directed C4, two each, which were designed to penetrate the hulls of ships acting as limpet mines. Targeting the propellers, forward hull, engine and other vulnerable parts of the ship, these mines were designed to bring down the Pride and nothing else.

The route in was uneventful. Despite the rain, the sailors worked to secure their breathing apparatuses and check their gear. 8 kilometres swimming was exceptionally difficult for most- underwater was even more. These sailors were quite capable of swimming dozens. An outcrop of rocks would provide cover for the dropoff, and that's where they'd be picked up.

Now they'd arrived, in the pitch black. They made only a small splash as they dropped into the cold water, before they began the approach. With hand-held sonar, they found their way in the dark and used GPS tracking to guide their path to the Pride. the harbour was recently built, and not at all protected against this threat. The swim would take three long hours, the swim back would end at 5am in the morning.

That was little concern as the NSOG approached, holding themselves close to the bottom of the sea of this harbour, where their sonar signature would be diffused. They had located the Pride. Now they began planting the remotely-detonated explosives, like big barnacles on her hull and propellors. An half hour later, it was time to scoot.

[Zellatia]

Aboard the Garrisson's Pride

Captain Nerore Gdanskivitz was not a happy Captain. Fifth in command aboard the ship, he also, by his own admission, had the stupidest and most over the top name out of all of the officers. That's why they just called him Captain Nero. Easier to remember, easier to not make fun of. Who was named Nero, anyways? Perfect for not being made fun of, that name was. Captain Nero, was as usual patrolling the deck at night, as was his duty with his two lieutenants. One of his men had said something about someone in the water, but he hushed them. After all, there were tons of seals around here, in this ancestor forsaken barbaric land.

His automatic Kalishnikov, at his hip, he looked around and shouted orders. His two lieutenants nodded and spread out in a further distance between each other. Then, one of them produced....a frisbee. Throwing the frisbee, the three FSP rebels began to play what would be their last game of Frisbee catch. As they played, the trio of low ranking officers failed to notice more "seals" approach the ship and latch explosives to the sides. As a result, their sudden death match, heading into overtime, ended with sudden death, and their bodies flying away from the ship faster over time.

Elsewhere on the ship, Commander Velhas Gerrhas was doing his duty, watching over the prisoners in the hull. Low in the water, he had taken a few of these people prisoner today when they refused to give money according to what they owed regarding tribute. Smacking one in the face with his pistol, he continued to watch over them as he took great pleasure in having control over them as a result. He always had enjoyed his job too much, back when he had been a jailor in Arche. Damn, he was happy being a rebel. F'in Emperor and his surviving the assassination attempts on his life. After he clocked out, he began to walk up the stairs, as the hull was breached by an explosion. Despite being a survivor of several other explosions, he died. Falling down the stairs, he broke his neck.

Sadly, however, that was all of the casualties of any importance. The ship had top of the line defenses against sinking, as had been proven before, and despite the hull breach, the hull crinkled up the blast, crushing inwards quite a lot, with very few holes if any. It was shocked badly, but all in all the explosion did very little more than cosmetic damage.

[New Hayesalia]

BATTLE DAMAGE ASSESSMENT

...No casualties were reported of NH military assets. The unit was recovered by CH-47 helicopter of the New Hayesalian Navy and are currently awaiting return to New Hayesalia from the NHS Animaliston. The Garrisson's Pride is reported as sustaining light damage, with one enemy sailor confirmed killed. Damage to the hull is unknown, however it can be assumed that this attack will damage enemy morale through fear.

Admiral Gerith Hydronsus has been reclassified by the New Hayesalian Government as a potential threat. Missions directed at neutralising this threat are approved under order of the New Hayesalian Government.

---

ONE DAY LATER

"Cigarette, buddy?"

The two men stood on the roof of this small office building, in West Destroniki. Suited office workers, simple salaryman. They looked over the port, which glittered with the huge warships. Sailors seemed to crawl over them, armed with machine guns- the Garrisson's Pride had just been struck by frogmen, apparently. The two men were colleagues, yet only passing acquaintances. One was a career office worker by the name of Zane Inhaz'an- a mid level manager with balding hair and a paunch, but a positive attitude that was so refreshing amongst Zellatians. He'd been based overseas during the Zellatian Civil War, taking phone calls and tying up deals while his friends died. It had been a very dark time- though he and his family had lived, and made a new life in this new colony.

Then the FSP had decided to move to it, much to his private disdain.

"I'll be alright, thanks."

His other mate was a man by the name of Rizee Kabazold, a man of exceptional fitness and who worked in sales for this company- who specialised in fitness equipment. he was in about his late 30s, and had been in this business for about five years. Before this, he'd spent ten years in the Foreign Legion of Allanea, a specialised sniper. He'd learnt to hate it after his ten year contract, and was all to happy to escape the Legion at the end of his service. Still, it had made him a 'stronger man.'

It was also going to make him rich.

The New Hayesalian Military was capable of getting people into West Destroniki with few issues, but this was a time when they realised any New Hayesalian or suspected ally would be searched, and killed. It made sense, therefore, to have someone else do it.

As the two men returned to their workspaces, Rizee noticed a new letter in his inbox- marked for his eyes only. There was no return address, but as he opened the letter he realised he was looking at something extremely strange. Watermarked with the emblem of the New Hayesalian Army, he knew he was being asked to do something important.

On behalf of the Zellatian Empire, the greater Island Kingdom of New Hayesalia and specifically the New Hayesalian Army wish to call upon your military skills to help liberate West Destroniki from FSP terror. Military records obtained from our Allanean allies reveal you have a distinguiushed military past. With this in mind, you are requested to recieve a mission from the New Hayesalian Army which you may refuse. You will be compensated with an equivalent sum of $2,000,000 for this mission.

By drawing on your skills as a scout sniper, and with the knowledge that you poseess a military specification rifle and silencer, you are to be tasked with tracking and killing Admiral Gerith Hydronsus of the Forward Shade Party. Should you have any questions of this mission; and should you wish to accept this mission; please call the attached number.

[Zellatia]

Aboard the Garrisson's Pride

Admiral Hyndronsus had for a very long time, at least if you consider a full year a long time, been scarred from his wounds. It had also made him quite a cold and calculating man, his injuries forcing him to think more of the long term. His schedule as such remained one of quite a lot of variety. The only constant that anyone could really ascertain, aside from patrolling the insides of his ship intermittently, was his 6 pm chat with the Governor, assuring him that as long as he did as he was told, none of his relatives or citizens would be harmed. The only cut in this was the bomb blast, in which, in retaliation, the Governor's nephew, who was amongst the prisoners, "drowned in a freak accident", sending his "ally" a message. From then on, Zellatian Militiamen, working for the governor, only armed with the lowest caliber weaponry, patrolled the harbor at night, making sure that none of the frogmen from before could approach the ship.

Despite this, he would, at a seemingly random time of day, come out into the light above the ship, spend five minutes walking around and breathing heavily, taking in the sights from around the ship, from the harbor filled with miniature vessels, to the patrol ships that now filled what little room was left. After that, he headed below deck, and simply did not come out.

Any food that came in for the crew was in non-descript boxes, all of which were checked thoroughly and could easily be filled with ammunition, or some other needed part. He knew that he could not trust anyone here, at least not yet, but he was winning. If he took too much more control of the colony's capital, the FSP might get ingrained, and start getting people joining from the countryside. West Destronika had already become a bustling and booming colony, especially after the war, so with it's possible independence, then the whole Frurian region could get unstable as a result. They'd likely start pogroms against the remaining locals and instead focus on Zellatian Superiority, something that had, after a long time, looked like it was going away. The FSP was the last straw of Zellatian Fascist gene.

However, there was word that, after any serious digging amongst the gossiping said they had a financial backer. They were somewhere in the colony , some high and mighty rich local land contractor. There were only three of them in town, so that was quite a narrow choice. However, that was narrowed to only one because of common sense. Aldabert Newton wasn't a Zellatian and had no reason to back the FSP. Georgi Zelhoft was only half Zellatian, making him a dirty mongrel in their eyes. That left Gerrhar Zelazel, a local businessman that owned literally half of the construction companies in town, and had been, for a while, an open member of the FSP, although he dropped that when they lost. He still held conviction in it, but he was the last major FSP political figure in the colony anyways.

He might be a way to get to the Rebel Admiral, but there is also... a second route.

Mira Hydronsus, the aged mother of the Admiral, lived in the hills overseeing the town in a gated neighborhood. Guarded by many rebels, she has loudly denounced her son, but he cares too much for her to do anything aside from keep her and the whole neighborhood under house arrest. If she died under violent means, or somehow disappeared, he'd be frantic, that much is obvious. She would go along with it, having been rumored to complain constantly about the lack of privacy or care given by the guards. Who knows what this route would lead to?

[New Hayesalia]

OPERATIONS PLANNING ROOM, NEW HAYESALIAN MILITARY HQ, REVNAMI

The room was chock-full of military personnel. The room itself was located underground, under the stationary ring of the clockwork city of Revnami. Built on massive springs with hardened construction in arches, with EMP and incendiary protection. The building also held the SLAMS Command, a highly secretive room operated solely by the most trusted and relied-upon personnel of New Hayesalia.

The room itself, like many things in New Hayesalia, was still somehow bright and promoted creativity. Creativity was something the NH Military fostered, something that could mean the difference between life and death. The guests of honor, as it were, was just about everyone. Air Chief Marshal Scotts, the 37 year old Commander of the New Hayesalian Air Force was one. It was a wonder she had done it; but she had done it wonderfully. Alongside was General Eli Knight, the 50 year old veteran of Special Forces with an innate knowledge of ground warfare. Knight was also reporting in from a conference in Lamoni. He's known as being one of the most intuitive and creative men in the entire Military for operations before the Amalgamation.

There was Rear Admiral Chris "9-Finger" Tines, a rugged sailor who had lost one of his fingers. He was assigned as the armoury officer on the aircraft carrier FNS Finn. He was injured severely when a Mirage 2000 exploded, breaking his legs and collarbone, and maiming his left ring finger beyond repair. It was amputated at sea. After this he had been assigned to Naval Special Operations of the HUDF and was considered an expert on amphibious operations.

Of course, Fleet Admiral of the NHN Garrick Flynn was present- a tall lanky man who had assumed military command from Scotts, to an exemplary standard. Air Marshal Jacob Hynes too, was pulled from his regular duties as SLAMS Commander to report on the issue. A few other important faces were also present, but the standouts were the Deputy PM, Anthony Scapalotti; and the Prime Minister himself, Daniel Hayes. Hayes spoke, and everyone else stopped. He called for them to return to their seats, and the conference began.

"I'd like to thank you all," he said, matter-of-factly, "for coming here on short notice. I assure you, the safety of this nation lies in your hands. I'd like the situation brief first, please."

Fleet Admiral Flynn stood and cleared his throat, giving way to a somewhat nasally but authoritative voice.

"Our mission to sink the Pride has been altered. Moreover, our new goal under the Prime Minister's orders is to capture or kill the Admiral while ensuring the hostages remain safe. This operation is greatly important to the continued security of West Destroniki and the Zellatian mainland. An airstrike is out of the question due to security of hostages and the ship is far too large for a frogman assault, and new IR and sonar defences make that an unsafe operation. However our previous raid has affected the seaworthiness of the Pride."

"Our new plan is to take the harbour in a large-scale assault. This assault is exceptionally dangerous using conventional means and there is a risk of damage to the ships which could result in large-scale damage and casualties. Therefore we'll be relying on the 'gay spray' and teams trained in CQB tactics, such as members of the two Marine Legions. The current capacity of the Zealite forces is less than what we'd hope, so this will be an entirely NH operation."

"Insertion will be from amphibious assault submarine, with supporting attack and missile elements. The first phase will be involve launches of electro-magnetic attack cruise missiles to neutralise enemy radar and electrical capability. This will also be met with the 'gay spray' which was non-lethally subdue all personnel by diverting their attention to their more... base... needs."

"Phase 2 will be the insertion which will be via Javelin IFV. At this point, we don't think there is much in the way of anti-aircraft capabilities except resources mounted on ships. However if CIWS and SAM systems are still active, we don't want to risk helicopter assets. I think we all remember the way the media treated the Al'wan training accident."

"Third phase will be the capture of the Pride. We've obtained the plans for the ship, and we're in the process of constructing a full mockup in a hangar in Quepasa. This mockup will give our operators the capacity to practice before the mission goes ahead. Our local asset will report further on the movements of the ships and the HVT. We're thankful in that we have units who know how to clear these ships of people and hopefully free hostages. We plan to also operate in the very early morning, while it's still dark. This means that the vast majority of enemy personnel will not be fully awake, and those on their shift will soon go off-shift. This means our boys will be more awake."

"Once the Admiral is located, he will be escorted to a Javelin IFV and he will be kept in the brig of the assault submarine before being transferred to the closest aircraft carrier, and then onto New Hayesalia. Alternatively he can kept on the sub, but we figured you'd want him as quickly as possible, sir."

Hayes nodded.

"In the instance that the Admiral is killed, he will be positively identified and then transferred to the hospital morgue aboard the assault sub, and then he will be transferred to New Hayesalia in the same manner."

"Major risks are small arms fire and potential for heavier arms fire. We believe that the FSP sailors will lack the small arms proficiency of whatever unit we decide to send in, however there is a risk that they may choose to use mounted machine guns. In this case, the Javelins will be used to destroy these positions. Thankfully through intelligence photography we have the potential to outline where these areas are and we can pre-position our assets to destroy these threats. Should the Javelins come under rocket fire we will deal with those threats in the conventional manner. We doubt that this will be an issue, however, because Zellatian Navy ships do not carry rocket launchers."

"Given the go ahead, and with selection of a unit, we can put this mission into practice in about two weeks. We doubt the FSP are going to go anywhere in that time."

"What units are in question?" asked Hayes.

"The IFVs will have to be provided by the 1st Marine Legion as the Ready Response Group. The infantry force can be supplied by the Marine Legion or by the 1st Commando Division. My recommendation is the Commando Division, as they are more suited to these quick missions. The Marine Legions I have full confidence in, but the Commandos I believe possess the capability to perform at higher standards."

Hayes took the advice of the other officers before coming to his conclusion. The 1st Commando Division would be responsible for this mission. The brief covered a few more elements before it was over and all involved stood to leave. Officers in dress uniform donned peaked caps and those in camouflage fatigued arranged their berets.

"Very well sir. We will begin planning for this operation. In two weeks, this mission will be going ahead provided you still support it. Stand fast!"

The Fleet Admiral made the command, to which all other military personnel stood to attention. The Fleet Admiral saluted and Hayes nodded, thanking everyone for their presence and moving back to his office, to ready himself for a bi-monthly meeting about the heathcare system. What joy, being a Prime Minister was.

[Zellatia]

Mechanopolis, West Destronika

Things weren't looking good this night. There were several reasons for that. First it was because of the new...additions to the ships in the harbors. It was as if they were expecting a protracted assault, and the Governor mused, if that would happen....well the city would be fucked. They'd laid explosives around the city as well, letting him know damn well where all of them were as if to taunt him into thinking to escape during the assault. As if that was even possible in the first place. Not only that, but to top it all off, a shipment of gas masks had arrived from the countryside, and given to all night watchman. Now it seemed every fucking one of those rebel bastards had gotten his hands on something that made them immune to gas attacks. He'd also sworn that explosive mines had been put into the harbor, as some of the ships seemed lower in the water than he remembered and one of them had seemed to explode earlier that day, although his...."warden" had told him nothing of the sort had happened. He could only hope, at the very least, that the assault on the Garrisson's Pride left the harbor barely touched. If they were to ever get the harbor repaired and the economy restored to pre-hostage levels, it would need to be completely clear of debris or bombs.

The Garrisson's Pride loomed over the harbor, like a vengeful guardian that was waiting for the right opportunity to get rid of it's ward. As the night went by and the clock turned to midnight, he could have sworn that the harbor was full of more ships than before. The Garrisson's Pride also seemed to have more guns aboard it, although he couldn't tell due to lack of illumination what exactly were those new bumps aboard it, and he sincerely hoped that whatever the New Hayesalians, he'd heard rumors that they had tried to sink the boat a few weeks before, had planned was enough. Around 1 AM, he was absolutely certain he heard...a loud roar? What could that be? Whatever was going to happen...he hoped it would be quick.

Aboard the Garrisson's Pride

Admiral Gerith Hydronsus was happy that everything had gotten together. The hacker aboard his ship, a mister Geronimo Williams, from a far off land that started with an A, he wasn't sure what it was, actually, had hacked into the briefing for his capture or death. Were they so stupid to actually think no electronic equipment would be hackable just because it was a supposedly secret bunker? How laughable. He'd already hired several military experts of New Hayesalia that had speculated all he needed. He recognized who was there, already making a note to his friends in New Hayesalia to assassinate all involved with this operation should it actually capture or kill him. Except the Prime Minister, of course, he was a man to be respected. The rest, however...they were expendable. As were his men. He'd spent quite a lot of money in the time since the conference in New Hayesalia, hiring tons of mercenaries with the latest equipment to guard him. In order to make things even easier for himself, he'd killed a few hostages to show that he meant business, most of the dead being of little importance anyhow. He could always arrange for the capture of some more.

For now though, he had all of the chess pieces in place. He'd get his revenge if he survived this and if he didn't, he would go down fighting. The now several thousand men working for him were actively patrolling the harbor. It was already common knowledge throughout the town that the hostages were beginning to get executed. He was taunting them to attack, even if they realized there was little chance that they could succeed at this point. Regardless of what they had planned, it would be too late for them to reconsider their approach. It also helped...that he had brought in foreign allies. Foreign allies with submarines of their own. To patrol the outer reaches of the waters. Sure, he only controlled the capital of this colony, but if he played his cards right he could seize it, make it a sovereign nation of it's own, something that the cowardly governor had never considered. Then...he would kill every single native he could find, invade every country on the continent, and make this land his! He was so close to being able to seize this colony that he could taste it, and so could his backers. But for now....all there was to do was to prepare.

A knock on his door was something rather expected. The door opened and a smiling face looked at him, "Admiral, I am so glad that you've decided to have me on" the visitor spoke, his voice dripping with excitement, "I can't wait to kill these...New Hayesalian bastards. I could never stand them, and now it is time for us to kill every one of their smug asses. Can I have the scalps?"

The Admiral rolled his eyes and nodded, "Of course you can, Eldegast, you can take their scalps after the battle. You can do whatever you want with their bodies, they are dogs anyways."

The visitor jumped up and down with glee, "Oh thank you sir, you won't regret it!" and the man left.

The Admiral shivered, he should've never hired that non-human... He looked just frightening, and his very appearance still shook him. Still....His tribe was an old one, and they still relished combat and carnage. It was what made them such good mercenaries. It didn't hurt that he'd hired ex-Zealites, several former commandos from various countries, even a few ex New Hayesalian commados that were in the business still. He'd also gotten every prisoner from the Mechanopolis prison house working for him, so this was going to be quite the fight. He waited....and waited. It would be a quite a good time, he thought. A good night to die.

[New Hayesalia]

TWO WEEKS BEFORE OPERATION

Report to New Hayesalian Military per-operational planning, excerpt.

... internal sources including the Intelligence Corps and contracted units report that unconfirmed leaks have been formally confirmed. The Situation Room is to be considered unsafe and military cyber readiness should inspect the area. FSP forces have begun wearing face masks, as reported by sources on location. This will negate the effects of the NLCS-1 non lethal chemical weapon, clinically called the Gay Spray. This will reduce the effectiveness of NHM forces and risk casualties...

...ships have begun to jury-rig further machine gun platforms to high platforms and ships. Protracted fire from these positions threaten the safety of dismounted forces, and should be considered a major threat...

...Air Force satellites have used various detection sources to locate suspected naval mines in the harbour. This mines are of older style, roughly 1960s era. While these mines do not allow the naval task force in the harbour to leave the area without withdrawing the mines, which can be a long process. It also reduces the chance of enemy reinforcements inserting via the major port. Unfortunately, the Zellatian government will lose revenue as the port will no longer be serviced by civil companies. The risk to amphibious Javelin IFVs is extensive and should be considered an extremely high risk...

...With the murder of hostages aboard the Pride the need for action is rising. However, the risk of further tragedy is higher. Unlike kidnap for ransom, the risk of hostage death in this incidence is high. It is recommended, and supported by the New Hayesalian military leadership, that the 2nd Marine Legion force should secure the outside of the city. The risk of entering is high, but the insurrection forces have not left the city. It is difficult to fight them, but it is possible to contain them...

...The revised operation will involve deploying helicopter, tiltrotor, mechanised and armoured forces. The military should organise the necessary forces of the 2nd Marine Legion into battle readiness, with the forces necesssary to encircle the military forces inside the city. Civilians should be given good capacity to leave and be relocted elsewhere. Bearing in mind that ships in harbour have VLS systems, and SAM capacity, anti-missile systems should be contained in the first wave. With flat plains around the city, it is safe to deploy troops around the city outskirts as enemy ship's guns lack a proper line of fire. Naval assets can be put on station to respond if needed.

120KM NORTH OF THE CITY

Off the date, four weeks after the report accounted for the reorganisation and calling in of more assets of the 2nd Marines, the operation could go ahead. The Zellatian rebel Admiral, with a mindset reeking of Cold War era static defence, had bolstered his local defences but had been complelety unable to expand his reach onto the Zellatian province. If the idea had been to defend the city, they'd done it right. Not expanding.

Just having left New Hayesalia, a naval taskgoup comprising of New Hayesalian combat ships and amphibious assault ships would soon arrive in theatre, ready to disgorge soldiers to surround the city. The New Hayesalian Military was ready and leaving, the ceremonies concluded and the cargo loaded. Changing from their dress white uniforms and khaki coats, the soldiers and sailors changed to combat fatigues to get ready for a fight overseas- with the blessing of the Zellatian government, of course. Operation New Triton was underway.

ORBAT:
2x CVL-01 Sea Lion carriers
6x AFSB
6x Narvik
1x Aurora
4x Sea Leopard SSI
4x FO-1 Conveyor
6x Polaris
2x Vortex ASW
2x MS-15 Immaculate

[Zellatia]

Mechanopolis, West Destronika, Operation New Triton Day
The outer parts of the city were full of troops, awaiting the onslaught by the New Hayesalian force. Over fifty thousand soldiers, mercenaries, and militia were guarding the city, all of who were ready to taste New Hayesalian blood. The harbor was barely different, chocked full of naval vessels, navy men, and gunners, all waiting for the New Hayesalian navy to dare try to invade the harbor. While the sky was empty of rebel troops, that didn't mean that on this clear as usual day there weren't tons of guns trained on the sky. The tech masters who had been hired by the Rebel Admiral, had already gotten to work on the communications of the town, making it nearly impossible to knock out unless the actual source station was attacked, even with an EMP. The city had become a defensive stronghold...and even then...the city would only be part of the battle.

Outside the city, Vissaur mercenary tribesmen roamed the countryside, waiting for either unsuspecting travels to be ambushed and scalped, or waiting to find New Hayesalians. Either way, the woods surrounding the city were far from safe. The Vissaur were from Vale Land, one of the Zellatian Dominions. The mountains of the state, long avoided, were somewhat teeming with them, even with Zellath IX's crackdown on them, ending their raids. They'd began to work as mercenaries for whoever would pay them, using their mostly normal bulletproof skin as something that gave them an advantage over mercenaries, although they are quite brutal.

The situation was easily worsened by the fact that they had outposts throughout the forests now, something they had arranged to keep after the war. A new homeland, something to be a part of to raise their young. A bribe to the chiefs. Fifty-thousand of them were now roaming the countryside. Several nearby towns had erected walls, making them ignored by the Vissaur. However, the Vissaur knew their limits, however brutal they were. They were ready to fight off the New Hayesalians, and scalp them.

[New Hayesalia]

OPERATIONAL BRIEFING, DELIVERED VIA TELEVISION

The complete force of soldiers and sailors- and a few airmen- had been readied. The fleet would soon make it's way to the point of disembarking. Troop ships, a total of six AFSBs, were ready for the busy day that would be coming ahead. The AFSBs were loaded to the top with soldiers. 36,000 men and women had been assembled, ready to go to battle. The briefing spaces upon the AFSBs simply weren't big enough. Even as the helicopters that would carry these soldiers to the shore were beginning their preflight checks, the action on the deck stopped. All but essential personnel had moved into galleys, briefing rooms, bridges, and recreational areas to see the televised operational brief from the theatre commander- the commander of the 2nd Marine Legion, Major General Richard Menaius was in charge now. Like all of the soldiers who would soon be on the ground, he wore a Temperate FEAR camouflage uniform. But it was on the deck where the most soldiers watched the brief. A projector on each deck put up huge images of the Major General on the island, atop which is the bridge.

A man with years of experience, the Major General spoke with an unusually serious voice. His mood was generally that of a positive, confident man. Today his confidence was overshadowed by a tone of almost foreboding.

"Alright, everyone. It's time for your general brief. This brief will cover the lading operation. You will be located 150 miles north of the outskirts of the city. This is to ensure the safety of all personnel on this mission. This operation should take at least a few hours before our convoys begin moving to take positions. Human intelligence, supported by SIGINT and other intelligence resources, have reported that hostile forces have taken up positions around the city, however the majority of hostile forces are staying insode the city. Intelligence reports there may be up to 50,000 tribal personnel which have been moved from other parts of Zellatia. As the maritime exclusion zone only covers the area around the city, the tribal hostiles have been moved over a seven week period in commerical vessels. Be wary of them."

"Disembarkation is as follows. First units to disembark will be ABM personnel on the SSCs, along with their vehicles and equipment. Second will be the special forces contingent by helicopter. Our armoured forces will then disembark with their tanks via the SSCs, from the 7th and 8th Divisions as noted. As the SSCs are used for this purpose, helicopters will ferry all infantry personnel to the location. After all large vehicles are disembarked, light transportation assets will be deployed and the task force will begin moving to their posts. Air and artillery support will be available to all personnel as required. NCOs and officers have already been briefed as to their tasks once on land. I hope for a smooth landing, so please use your heads and remember your training."

With that, the brief was finished.

---

Over the next few hours, personnel began to be airlifted and driven via the ship to shore connectors- hovercraft- in great numbers. Soldiers mounted positions, as did tanks, to secure further their landing zone. Fire Scout UAVs also patrolled the area, further supported by combat aircraft laden with bombs and missiles of all varieties. It was unknown if their enemy possesed radar capacity in harbour, so the stealthy F-22s stayed well away.

---

THE NEXT DAY, MORNING NEWS IN OPPENTIN

...and in todays news, the Government has announced that landing operations in Zellatian Fruria have been successful. No casualties were taken and bases have been established overlooking the city. Fleet Admiral Garrick Flynn announced in a press conference earlier today.

"This was a well done operation, which was done with the highest of professional standards. Bases are being established at this point, and we believe that our personnel are quite safe at this point. For the time being, all entry to the city is being restricted. The operation will continue until the New Hayesalian Military can be sure that it is safe to continue the operation."

A total of 36,000 soldiers are currently on the ground in 18 forward bases, although the number of personnel is expected to swell to up to 100,000 in the coming weeks...

[Zellatia]

The Vissaur were hunting.

They knew that the "Neu Hayze" were on the shore by now, they could smell them on the wind. A large group of them, about half of the Vissaur expedition, began to approach one of the bases through the forest. They had assault weapons of every kind, from RPG's to AK-47's. They were ready to destroy and kill anything in their path. They had gotten word from the bosses in Mechanopolis that a New Hayesalian news cast had reported that the expeditionary force had landed and begun to set up bases. None of the militia dared leave the city, so they decided that the Vissaur should do it. They could always get tribesmen still living in the mountains of this new land to be their fodder, it wasn't as if the rebels cared really for their lives. The Vissaur were just tools to them.

The Vissaur never really cared about being useful, they cared about hunting, killing, and spreading their population. This new land was ripe with opportunity for all of that, so they came in droves. They were hard to detect in a forested environment, not wearing much in the form of clothing. They could, however, smell the New Hayesalians.

They came upon the outer edges of a base....

[New Hayesalia]

At the time of the attack, the bases were in varying states of readiness. 11x11 tents housed the majority of soldiers, who carried their service weapons at all times. Modular cooking trailers, to families of latrines, to main battle tanks, were readied.Each base was protected by two rings of the Modular Armour System, walls of bulletproof walls supported by the huge sandbags that protected further from explosions- although most hadn't yet been filled. The Armor is a "LEGO type system" that "provides protection for operators while still providing full situational awareness through transparent armor." The comparison to LEGOs comes from the fact that the Armor can be assembled quickly by two to four soldiers working together, and it's modular, so it can take on different shapes and sizes. Extra layers can even be added for more protection, and all the pieces can be carried or stacked onto a truck for easy transport. No tools required.

ISR was supplied by 360 degree coverage from the SQUIRE ground radar set, looking for human and vehicles sized targets regularly. Fire Scout drones also maintained their patrols regularly, with humans in the sentry posts 24/7. With a choice of sniper rifles, Model 50 machine guns, anti-tank weapons and access to use laser designators for the mortar and other systems, they had offensive brilliance. They were defended further by the New Hayesalian Active Denail System, typically mounted on tanks and vehicles but also efficient on sentry towers.

Soon, SGR-A1s would be delivered, which would provide sentry points outside the base.

Inside the base, MULE L3s ferried equipment around, their mechanical whirring quiet and efficient. At times, soldiers sat on them and rode them like horses, to the occasionally stern telling off. From the centre of the base rose the Electrical Tethered Observation Platform. A reconnaisance platform equivalent to having a tall tower, the ETOP flew tethered and stable at about 75 metres, with the ability to look around and locate targets.

MANTIS CIWS and other anti-missile systems had been installed by their soldiers very quickly, in case of missile attack. Combined with quick response orders, the bases were optimally defended from most insurgent and conventional attacks. The process of setting up a base like this was performed regularly by soldiers, especially marines. Construction like this was a strength of the NHM- they'd once built an airfield capable of taking a C-17 in 24 hours.

---

BASE JULIET

Inside the command centre, literally a couple of tents connected up, the base commander looked over his area of responsibility. Base India was to his north by a few kilometers, and Base Kilo to his south. Major Tom Pakis sat in the cheap steel chair which had to pass for now, recieving regular updates on the defensive readiness. It was 4 am now, the first light coming over the horizon. At a rough 27 degees C, it was a bit cool for the man used to the tropics. With black hair, an ovaline face, and a thermos in hand, the Major was taking care of his operations. He was looking over his Urban Photonic Planning Map, creating and customising patrol routes. The news of these savages which may or may not attack had him concerned, but it was his belief his base was ready to take to the fight if needed. The tanks were still ready to respond if needed, after all. His base's ETOP was still being connected, so for now they were relying on their sentries.

By 6am, they were needed.

"CONTACT WHITE SIDE!" came a call over the command radio, limited to the base. "INFANTRY FORCES..."

The sound of .50 calibre machine gun fire opened up. THUG-THUG-THUG-THUG-THUG-THUG. Quick reaction troops made their way to the Modular Armour Shields, opening the bulletproof windows to fire their weapons from- ranging from Ripper Mk3 assault rifles to CGPMG-01 7.62mm machine guns. The naked to almost naked enemies showed up quite cleanly on thermal imagery camera, as Puma AE drones were hand-launched to look for the elusive foes. In the sentry towers, sniper and machine gunners worked in pairs, quickly joined by a third. In Tower 2, that third was Corporal Damiel Evasel, who took the binocular-style designator. Using infrared, he highlighted the position of a large group of enemies. This was quickly picked up on by the Dragon Fire II automatic mortar, which directed itself to fire a large high explosive shell.

The yelling of soldiers, combined with the gunfire, was deafening. A bullet whipped through one of the open windows. It richoched along the barrel of a- now damaged- Mk3, before colliding with the hard composite face plate of an M1A4 helmet. It did not penetrate, although the result was a hard smack which infuriated the wearer, Private Tim Rickins.

More explosions shattered the landscape. 40mm grenades made the small ones, and Model 6 offensive frag grenades made larger. Some soldiers have taken up the Roudshot air burst weapons, which were directing highly accurate grenade fire- like small bombs. The biggest were made by the shells of the mortars. As more enemy combatants fell, tanks began to roll out from the entrance on the other side of the base. They did this to prevent being fired upon quickly, giving them time to adjust to the combat as they rolled to the fighting side. These massive Panthera Leo tanks opened up with their machine guns and 155mm cannons, tearing the forest to shreds. In desperation the tribal combatants fired the remainder of their RPG-7 shells, with most falling short of their intended targets- some rockets fell before the tanks and the walls, some flew too high- the MANTIS CIWS could have opened fire on the combatants, but the ammunition was limited and solely meant for missiles and RPG assaults from above. More enemies began to run, swarming the base. They would take several shots to take down, but due to the use of penetrating rounds in every third shot, the 2nd Marine Legion quickly served to eliminate their foes.

On the New Hayesalian side, some rounds have landed but none had been fatal. The enemies were now facing off against nearly three hundred barricaded New Hayesalians with three main battle tanks. After a mere fifteen minutes, the remaining tribal fighters retreated into the hills, more than likely intimidated by the F-22N Sea Raptor which had made a low pass overhead.

As the coast cleared, the damage was clear. The forest line to the walls, and well into the forest, was decimated by explosive firepower. Bullet holes and scratches were clear on every surface. At the wall, 7.62mm bullets could be seen crinkled up at the bottom of the wall. Trees had been felled, with small fires starting. Thanks to the moistness of the forest, they quickly died out. Thousands of bullet casings were spent in the New Hayesalian lines, and theatre command had been made aware. A team of two dozen soldiers were later sent to find enemy bodies for a battle damage assessment, escorted by the tanks and Bushmasters.

It was a truly excellent display of modern weapons vs the obsolescence of the tribal soldiers.

[New Hayesalia]

XAMBO, ZELLATIAN FRURIA

Xambo, a medium sized city inland in the first realm of Zellatian colonialism. Like Jerusalem in old Rome, it was no jewel but instead just a part of the gold that helped to truly make the crown. The people here had largely experienced the war. Many were simply pissed it had followed them to this new province. And indeed the concern for some was the fact that it was their relatives- spouses, children, parents and siblings- were stuck behind the line.

The local detatchment of police, and armed Zealite soldiers, had been on alert for a long time now. With the FSP considered a terrorist organisation, they made it very clear they were unwelcome, to the point of wielding assault rifles regularly. And to the great pleasure of the New Hayesalian Military, the locals were agreeable to the use of the Xambo airport for the New Hayesalian Air Force.

The first flight had arrived a mere 12 hours after the initial landings, 1000 hours on the hour. A C-130J-30 Super Hercules had been deployed, carrying with it the first security detatchment of New Hayesalians. The Airfield Defence Guards, with Bushmaster armoured vehicles, were to be responsible for helping secure the airfield. The second Super Herc had a new cargo- three flatbed Bushmasters, which would be used to carry into bases the cargo which would soon be delivered.

And half an hour later the first shipment arrived. To make way for more military gear, the soldiers had gone in with limited food supplies. Over the next few hours, more Bushmasters would be parachuted by C-65 Aurora aircraft coming in from the province's south. Javelin IFVs would also be delivered by two C-17 Globemaster IIIs, especially for this convoy duty. The drivers in the convoy were from the 1st Airborne Legion's Logistics Division, and after they parachuted in from a C-65 Aurora, a fifth Aurora arrived dropping literally tonnes of food, in 36 seperated Bushmaster-sized crates. The sixth and seventh Auroras arrived, parachuting more trucks and a finsal eight dropping the food and medical equipment to be loaded on those trucks.

With 40 flat-bed Bushmasters, six IFVs, 64 flat bed Sisu SA-150 'Masi' trucks with unmanned driving technology known as the "AutoMate" and eighty personnel from the New Hayesalian Army, the soldiers on the ground would soon have the food they needed to sustain themselves. The danger of attack was considerable- all manned vehicles would be using the Automatic Denial System so useful in saving lives. For each firebase, enough food would be delivered for two weeks of operations.

The Bushmasters- protecting themselves with a remote weapons station holding a .50 calibre gun, would come behind two IFVs. Two more IFVs would be in the middle of the pack, and two final ones at the rear. Bushmasters would travel behind each other in convoy, one set up to be capable of towing if anything broke down. The AutoMate vehicles would precisely follow the tracks of the last Bushmaster, keeping in an exact line and diverting their path if it was so required. The IFVs further carried sections of soldiers, each with trained medics. Hopefully none would need to disembark.

Despite the multiple levels of protection, including the Fire Scout drones, artillery, and airstrikes that could be requested within moments, the convoy would still make an appealing target to the tribal fighters. This simple fact stood wearily in the minds of the hundred personnel who now readied themselves for the drive from Firebase Alpha through Romeo, and then back to base at Xambo Airport. As the drivers and passengers- who served to man the RWS and scan for enemies- set out, many eyed up their weapons, carbine Ripper Mk3s, hoping they wouldn't have to use it.

[Zellatia]

Despite every precaution given by the New Hayesalians, there was one thing they simply did not even think about. The roads themselves. From Xambo, there was only two roads east. The road directly east was the route taken, from Alpha to Romeo. While the road didn't go directly to Romeo, it still went nearby enough to make it a viable route. Too bad that the road was mined. As the convoy passed through a mountain pass, explosions rocked their surroundings, creating an avalanche of rock and debris smashing up the vehicles below. At the same time, both Tribal Vissaur, as well as Mercenaries who were brought in to shore them up, began to fire down on the New Hayesalian troops, appearing as if out of nowhere. The Bushmasters were targeted first, rocket launchers shooting all manner of shoulder mounted rocketry at them.

The hills were covered with trees, with the Vissaur having a lower blood temperature, and the mercs wearing special heat dampening body armor, there had been no simple way, let alone a complicated one, to see them before it was too late. This, however, only had hit the front third of the convoy. The road branched off enough from here that if they passed through one of the walled up towns in the countryside, they might be able to make it to Romeo, although the route will be longer and more prone to ambush than even this one. The mercs were equipped with not only the latest body armor, but also some of the latest weaponry, such as the M2-Z .50 BMG, a Zellatian mod of the M2, as well as several other standard issue weapons for Zellatia and many other countries. The attack was quick and once the damage was done, the assaulting mercs and Vissaurs disappeared. There would likely be more traps up the road, but would they even need to be used?

[New Hayesalia]

OOC: Reference of blasted rock size: US Navy Seabee removes rocks after a quarry blast.

---

EAST ROAD

All callsigns, coming up to a high valley now, out.

The convoy continued on. All the crew of this unit knew a valley was, translated, an excellent ambush point. And they were ready as well, in case the bullets started flying. What they hadn't expected was the massive explosion that ripped apart the rock face. Obviously drilled before the convoy had even been conceived, the Vissaur had taken great care in the rock-quarry quality of the blast. This was evidenced by the fact that immediately thereafer, emplaced MGs began firing.

A total of ten Bushmasters and 19 AutoMate Sisu trucks had been caught in the rockfall. Of those, 13 of the Sisu's were immediately destroyed, looking like they'd been in a rollover and head on collision. The blasts didn't impact on the hearing of the soldiers, the ringing and deafness which would affect some others not being present- their helmets had an 80dB shutoff value.

To the bushmasters, the falling debris had some affect. Remote gun pods on some of the Bushmasters had been left dented and stuck, and even then there was some damages to the exteriors of the cab. The .50 calibres were, however, extremely dangerous to the Bushmasters- while excellent at dealing with landmines, it could typically only take about 7.62mm AP rounds at best. Thanks to the 9LAND Battle Management System, the New Hayesalians had a key advantage- they could get a firing solution, from the Boomerang II detection system. The blessing of this situation was clear. The IFVs quickly opened fire, and the remaining Bushmasters used their laser designators to call for air or artillery support.

By the time the Vissur and the mercenaries had left, the damage was clear. The only safe road was blocked, meaning all delivery would be the role of CH-47F Chinooks, with escorts. And that knowledge came at a heavy cost. Of the twenty soldiers caught in the collapse, and of the nine soldiers medevaced by EC-725, three were dead by the time they landed at the NHS Accredit, a HS-1 hospital ship.

The convoy was turned back. Soon, Navy CH-47s would be based out of Xambo and complete the mission.

---

The deaths of the soldiers, and the injuries, including the amputation of one soldier's hand aboard the ship. Most would be out of the fight and back home for a potentially difficult recovery. But it was the sombre scenes in New Hayesalia the following day that truly showed what New Hayesalia was willing to sacrifice for Zellatian security.

The ramp ceremony for three dead soldiers at North Revnami Air Force Base, their coffins draped in New Hayesalian flags by two soldiers, two sailors and two airmen preceded by a soldier, carrying their medals and berets on a black velvet pillow. Those who had come included the media, and the families and friends of the deceased.

Ceremony and politics aside, three more names were added to the Memorial Wall- under the Second Zellatian Civil War.

[Zellatia]

That night, a document was sent to the Prime Minister, Hayes, for his viewing.

To the Greater Island Kingdom of New Hayesalia
From the Glorious Republic of New Zellatia

We declare these truths self evident, that all men are created equal. We wish for a simple thing, our own nation. For months we have been wasting lives killing one another, wasting time and money on weakening each other. I have contacted you this day to give you a deal. We will halt all activities of hostility towards New Hayesalia as well as Zellatia, under one condition. That we be given the island of Kriegernost, the easternmost and largest Zellatian territory in Fruria, as a homeland for my people, the true Zellatians. We will clean up Mechanopolis' harbor and never return if this peace is made. We have sent an identical missive to Zellatia and are awaiting their response. Here is the totality of the deal.

-Full Pardon for all crimes, war or otherwise
-Free Passage to new Territory
-The return of several prisoners affiliated with the FSP
-Enough money to create a proper state

With this we will do the following

-Clean up Mechanopolis Harbor
- Release all prisoners
- Pay reparations to the families of the deceased
- cease all combat operations
- eliminate the Vissaur threat.

If you find this deal acceptable, contact us as soon as you can.

Sincerely, High Kriegzer Gerith Hydronsus

[New Hayesalia]

LONG LIVE THE QUEEN- LONG LIVE NEW HAYESALIA.
COMPATIENS, LIBERA, ET CONTUMAX

The Greater Island Kingdom, provided the support of the Zellatian Government, wishes to express our agreement to this proposal. The Greater Island Kingdom recognizes the self-determination of the FSP. In return for the settlement of the noted Zellatian land, the FSP will agree to the following conditions of transfer:

Zellatian citizens living here will be permitted to take up new citizenship, with dual citizenship, and be afforded all rights of other citizens;
Be permitted to live and work in the new country;
Or be compensated the market price of their home, transport to a designated location in Zellatia, and an equivalent sum of US$150,000 per person.
Assets belonging to private citizens must be moved at the public expense.
Assets belonging to Zellatia (such as government vehicles) will be shipped to Zellatia at the public expense.

The Greater Island Kingdom has agreed to transfer it's own territory of Mizana to Zellatia to maintain a presence in the region.

In regards to the following points, the Greater Island Kingdom presents some conditions or reservations.
a) War crimes are a major offense. All war crimes will be fully addressed by judicial systems in Zellatia. In the case of military personnel, they will remain subject to the New Hayesalian-Zellatian Military Discipline Act, under the Garrisson Convention. After any sentencing, they may serve these in an FSP prison. Other crimes will be addressed on a case by case basis, however most minor felonies will be permitted passage. All fines or citations must still be paid to the Zellatian Government.

b) The new FSP government will be responsible for the organisation of passage, however the New Hayeslian and Zellatian Governments will agree to a cease-fire.

c) Depending on the sentences of the prisoners in question, they may be given passage. War crimes will still be prosecuted.

d) The FSP government will be given funding for the following departments:
Justice
Equality
Skills
Energy
Health
Education
Universities
International Aid (food and basic necessities)

The FSP guarantees the demining operation of the harbour. The New Hayesalian Navy and Air Force can provide operational support if required. All prisoners can be returned to a specified point, which will be named at a time of mutual agreement. Reparations have been covered by the Zellatian Government to military personnel. Instead of direct reparations, an annual sum may be paid to the Zellatian Government. The final two agreements are acceptable.

Furthermore, the FSP nation will agree to hold democratic elections at regular intervals. Any military or paramilitary forces will be banned from the manufacture or possession of any nuclear, chemical or biological weapons.

The Greater Island Kingdom is willing to put behind us a chapter of misery and rebellion. The GIK understands the determination of states- the history of New Hayesalia is itself dotted by it- however an armed and armoured rebellion can never be an acceptable change of government. To move forward, our nations both current and future must agree to compromise, even at the taunts of 'weakness.' Indeed, this accord will be seen in times to come as an Act of extraordinary strength, calling for the agreements of two enemies to shake hands.

Should this agreement be accepted, an Act will be drafted to be signed by the Emperor of Zellatia and the leader of the new nation, to be signed in a major city. We await your response.

Official Message of the Greater Island Kingdom of New Hayesalia
Compatiens, Libera, et Contumax

Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

Building 4,
New Hayesalian Parliament Complex,
Revnami,
1604 1000 0000

Prime Ministers Office:

PO Box 1,
New Hayesalian Parliament Complex,
Revnami,
1600 1000 0016

Military Foreign Correspondance Directorate:

Military Headquarters,
MSHQ Building 8,
Revnami,
1788 1000 0000

 

[Zellatia]

Zellton City, Zellatia Proper, The Democratic Empire of Zellatia

"WHAT?!" screamed the new Grand General, Marr Anorae, "They are willing to accept this madman's agreement? Some allies they've proven to be."

The Emperor sighed, Marr Anorae seemed to be just as easily irritated as his predecessor, the traitor Garr Destronikan. Marr was born in Zellatia, but not to Zellatian parents. The fact that he was now the leader of the land troops of Zellatia showed that he had fought hard for the Empire, being loyal. However, it also proved he was intelligent enough, if need be, to lead a military strike.

"Marr..." Zellan spoke, restricting his own feelings, "We said we'd let them deal with it, but perhaps they aren't willing to sacrifice as many people anymore. They gave for us during the last Civil War, the Insurrection, but perhaps they are not as used to loss as we are."

The Grand General crossed his arms and sighed. He seemed to not be nearly as angry anymore, "Very well, Emperor, what would you have me do? Send a message to the New Hayesalians?"

Zellan the Third nodded, not liking the situation either, "Tell them to stand down. I'm sending in troops to deal with this. We've relied on foreign troops too heavily, and my people are tired. We shall end this."

Marr nodded, heading away to tell the new Foreign Minister, Baltus Lindamere, son of the now deceased former Foreign Minister Geadus, his orders.

The message was sent to the New Hayesalian consulate afterwards.

"To our beloved allies, and their Prime Minister Hayes,

We have appreciated your help in this venture so far, and all previous fights against terrorists and insurrectionists within our borders, but we have decided to take over the fight in Fruria. If you would keep your current positions, we will use them as staging points for an assault on Mechanopolis. We thank you for your understanding in this situation, and wish you all the best.

Sincerely, Foreign Minister Baltus Lindamere."

[New Hayesalia]

PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE

"It's exactly what we didn't need. Fuck."

Hayes was very blunt in his analysis of the situation. Having taken off his well fitted business jacket and blue tie, he was cool in his office overlooking the Parliament Complex. It was just after a lunch and a number of people were still outside, sipping bitter coffees and enjoying their lunch. Many would have stress, but none would have stress to compare to their Prime Minister.

"It's pretty obvious what's going to happen now, you know." Hayes said, rubbing his forehead.
"A unilateral policing mission." replied the black-coated, red-tied, round-faced Peter Chellet- Defence Minister.
"In the Zellatian frame of mind you can call it a fucking two-way slaughterhouse. Our training mission has barely started over there and they want to just start blowing shit up. There's no way it won't result in violence."
"Well are our options are clear. We either ask the Zellatians to let them be, or we support them with military aid or without."
"It'll be unilateral. I won't be accepting any more casualties, especially not after the logistics guys. I've seen enough military funerals."
"Well how much support do we give them."

Hayes was adamant. He was willing to surrender New Hayesalian territory to help their Zellatian allies. But he would not ally himself with this upcoming disaster.

"We'll analyse the situation. Send them a message of acceptance, and get our people the fuck out. I want you to keep an eye on this. If anything looks like it could go wrong, I want some sort of quick military response. Chellet, do whatever you need to do."

[Zellatia]

After Battle Report: By General Jerod Clarner, Twelfth Legion

What can be said about what happened in Fruria that fateful day? No one is really sure. We thought it would be a blood bath, but instead, the enemy just...allowed us in, putting their guns on the ground. What had happened, I wondered, as our convoys entered the town, the regional capital of Mechanopolis. Something had happened, and all of the soldiers looked frightened. The enemy just...seemed done. They must have seen something horrible for this to happen, worse than anything that happened in the war. I didn't know what I'd see until I got to the harbor, but...I've never been so horrified in my entire life.

Body parts everywhere, Vissaur and FSP corpses littering the bay. It seems that the Vissaur, after being bloodied by the New Hayesalians, turned on the FSP and got their way into the bay. The resulting firefight seemed to have wiped out the Garrisson's Fist and all other ships in the bay, as well as the Vissaur. It was a hollow victory for the men holding the town, however, as their commander was now nowhere to be found. They don't know if he was on the ship when it had erupted, a dirty bomb exploding in its very core.

To be honest, I don't think even the FSP knew what to do. They were now leaderless, the mercenaries having fled before we arrived. Governor Ambrose's family was now dead, so he wasn't exactly happy with us, but he doesn't seem to blame us either. Many of the migrants that had come to Fruria hadn't yet arrived to Mechanopolis, so that was a bit of a relief. Most had temporarily set up shop on Kriegernost. They were beginning to finally be able to move to the shoreline of Zellatian Fruria, some of them going inland like Americans did in the 1700's. The world is a lot weirder nowadays, especially with peoples such as the Vissaur existing outside of Zellatia.

To our New Hayesalian allies who had to suffer deaths because of our weakness, take this as an official apology. Emperor Zellan sends his best wishes. If you'd still like to sign over your Frurian territory, I'm sure Zellan will use it accordingly. Honestly, I've lost my family. I know how it feels. I think Zellatia is tired for now. We've lost around half our army in the last few decades, several million souls. We are...sort of broken. But in the coming decades, as long as we focus on development, we'll do fine. Just don't expect us to aid you heavily in war. We'll send commandos, sure, but they were the last destroyed. It doesn't hurt that one Zealite is worth two of your Spetzgruppa, but maybe I'm just culturally bragging.

We've sent all prisoners involved in the convoy ambush to you along with this message, do with them as you please. As for me, I'm retiring. Going to live in the countryside from now on, away from all this death. I may be only 40, but I've had gray hair for over a decade. I'm surprised Zellan hasn't already gotten old. This is probably just a bit of random rambling, but this means a lot. Zellatia is going through a change...I don't think I want to or deserve to see what's on the otherside of it.

Good Luck, Prime Minister. Sorry for the baggage, but it comes along with the ride.

[New Hayesalia]

NEW HAYESALIAN MILITARY MEMORIAL

The Military Memorial stood atop a flat plot of ground, atop a hill looking over Revnami- the New Hayesalian capital. The moving city and that sparkling waters of the Revnami Harbour were more than an exceptional view, although they did serve that purpose. They represented what thousands of New Hayesalians had died for; liberty for their homeland and for billions more to live a peaceful life. From Revnami, you could also see the memorial. The large hall was topped by a curving roof, reflecting the sunlight and distinctly identifying this modern and beautiful building. It was shaped like a dove, obvious to see from even short distance. A building, commemorating wars, was focused by hope for the future, as wanted by all free men and women. It symbolised a hope for peace. The road nearby- one of the extremely limited amount of roads in Revnami- ran past the Memorial into other cities in the Province, with tunnels running underneath for pedestrians.

On the large and religiously kept lawns surrounding the building you could find memorials of units, battles, and some displays, dotted with trees hundreds of years old. Along the wall of the building is the Wall of Names, which includes the name of every New Hayesalian service member who lost their lives in war. Today, seats had been lined up around a temporary stage seating four hundred visitors. It's a month after the death of the last New Hayesalian soldier in war. Civilians and military personnel seated themselves, in suits, dresses and coated uniforms. Pinned to each man and woman's clothes was a red poppy, a symbol of the sacrifice made by so many.

To speak were some of New Hayesalia's leaders. Prime Minister Hayes; Edwin Lovett, Leader of the Opposition; Fleet Admiral Garrick Flynn and military leaders from the conflicts of all services.

The first action of the event- the commemoration of the latest wars in Zellaia- was the raising of flags. To their marching tracks, played by the New Hayesalian Military Band and raised by the Amalgamation Guard, went up the Navy, Army and Air Force flags. And on the highest flagpole, to the national anthem of New Hayesalia, was the red, blue, white and green striped flag of New Hayesalia, the Sun staring forwards with a face which seemed of grieving today. While the speeches were polite, sincere and moving, it was from Hayes that some of the most poignant lines came. "From the billions of New Hayesalians across the world, and millions of the worlds most patriotic, and noble, soldiers came these three hundred and seven men and women. And we stand here to remember them, and that they stood for the stability of freedom in a country rocked by it's loss. Billions of their own countrymen will commemorate them, and remember them. But for billions more, these soldiers, sailors and airmen have given them freedom so richly desired and owed to all humans. The sacrifice of these men and women is not a normal act of valour, but it is one of the most highest accord, a sacrifice that truly nobody can know until the moment that it is made. It inspires me, my friends, and I'm sure the rest of this great country. In their valour is hope for peace."

The crowd stood, and military personnel outside the audience and the formed body of soldiers saluted a lone bugler who had stood sentinel in front of a veiled memorial. The soldier, who wore no rank, medals or name tag symbolic of the relative anonymity of every New Hayesalian soldier brought his bugle to his lips, and played the slow tune of the Last Post.

A minute silence passed.

He completed the tune, and the anonymous soldier began the long march to rejoin the Military Band.

The commemoration went on for slightly longer, and soon a memorial was unveiled for the Zellatian War. A large, bronze statue of a soldier with Ripper Mk3 in patrol position; an exhausted sailor medic holding a large bag, seeming to be in the middle of running- a representation of the anti-radiation treatment of millions of civilians aboard the hospital ships; and a pilot pulling a notebook from an unzipped pocket. Built into the base of the statue was a large fragment of a propeller from a C-130J-30- one that had crashed in Garrisson, leading to the deaths of a hundred soldiers. More names had been added to the wall, and that was presented.

This war had been violent. Horrible. It had killed millions, wounded millions more and irradiated people and entire areas. New Hayesalia's Military had acted in tandem with the Zellatians but indeed the price of war remained high for all sides. The future was uncertain but maybe it would improve.

[Zellatia]

Osenthest Zellatian Emigre Town"Little Zellton",Osenthest,Retalimora, New Hayesalia

It wasn't a large community that lived here in Little Zellton, but at the same time it was rather close knit. Whenever there was even the least bit of trouble in the community, the miniature town of 10,000 or so was able to pull together and make a decision, from territorial disputes all the way to murder cases. They dealt with their own and got hostile at times to New Hayesalians who tried to interfere in "Zellatian Business". Now, this was a rare thing for Zellatian Emigrants, but the reason for this seemed obvious to any trained Zellatian observer: These were war-scarred, emotionally addled refugees. Many had lost their homes before leaving the country, some losing their entire families. Zellatia lost a lot during the Insurrection, but so much more was lost on the psychological level. The greatest Diaspora in Zellatian history, One in Seventy Zellatians leaving the country. Around 200 Million Zellatians left. Maybe more, maybe less. Nonetheless, the hamlet of Little Zellton was run by one man. Gair Monzearth. That is, that is his assumed name, the one he used to get to New Hayesalia in the first place. His actual name is of little consequence to those around him, a minor colonel, but his actions were memorable in the minds of the New Hayesalians. Gair Monzearth, originally known as Garth Zelacht, was the mastermind behind the Garrisson Incident. And he was right under the noses of the New Hayesalian's noses.

With the death of Grand Admiral Hyndronsus, even through it had been done in a manner unforseen, the contract that had been put out on the commanders responsible for the whole incident was now in effect. A list was compiled, people that had to die in order for Hyndronsus' Death:

Air Chief Marshal Scotts
General Eli Knight
Rear Admiral Chris "9-Finger" Tines
Fleet Admiral of the NHN, Garrick Flynn
Air Marshal Jacob Hynes
Deputy PM Tanya Voronina
Prime Minister Daniel Hayes

According to the old Zellatian Contract System, all had to die. The call had gone out to each and every refugee camp. Several of the old guard, those who had decided to throw their lot with the Insurrectionists, were in New Hayesalia under assumed names. They would strike at their foes, the foes of all Zellatians. A plan was concocted, several in fact. The first was now in motion....

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Osenthest Army Base, Osenthest,Retalimora, New Hayesalia

A simple pick up truck began to drive to the base, laden with supplies. It had a variety of stuff aboard, from fresh fruit all the way to latrine hygienic items. This was a routine delivery, something that had been a deal set up between the base commander of the Osenthest Army Base had approved in the past. Normally it would be exactly what the manifest said it was, but today...the truck had been hijacked in Little Zellton, the drivers taken prisoner. Both Zellatians. Both replaced with look-a-likes. Rumor had it that one of the men on the list was here. They were not to activate the almost completely undetectable explosives, made from a rare combination of Mino Mine Spider Silk and Tropicanian Nitride "Loam". It was rare to use the combination, especially in New Hayesalia. It was normally used to clear mines, but it had the capacity in this form to destroy a large chunk of the base. As the drivers got to the entrance of the base, they acted natural, "Good day to you sirs. Here with the weekly delivery" said the driver, his immigrant "accent" easily seen. Most new Zellatian arrivals tried to sound more like New Hayesalians, if only to fit in better. Either way, something was going to happen here. If this failed...there were already other players in the base, bought off to strike when the time came.

The base was not the target. The officers were.