Fallout: South the Mason [IC Thread]

by **The Frozen Forest** » Tue Apr 10, 2018 8:11 pm

Collab Post between Dragos Bee and The Frozen Forest

Nathaniel Green, thanks to his new status as one of Despot Nathaniel Starbuck's 'senior employees', was now able to arrange a meeting with a representative of the SilverSword trading company in the latter's new headquarters in San Antonio. Alongside Sedna and Marcus Antonius Junior, he would go to said headquarters and say to the receptionist, "I'm here for a meeting with Damien Black, please. I believe I set a private appointment."

"Name?" The Receptionist looked up from her wooden, dusty old desk to the man that stood before her. The Headquarters was new but the staff were anything but, having been brought in from the Dallas Branch. Its defenses weren't up to par with those of the Dallas Branch, it was reasoned that the cost could be avoided due to the already established government in San Antonio providing for the common defense. The building itself was mainly a construct of old wood and smelted metal on the inside of what had once been an apartment building. Another cost-saving measure made by the administration back in Dallas.

The Receptionist returned to her work, gazing over a series of files with numerous dates and times on them. "Well, Mr Green your right on time. Damiens in his office on the second floor, up that stairway, there" the older lady gesturing haphazardly with a pen at a set of stairs. "Take a right and its the first door on your left." She offered a smile to the man before turning back to the numerous sheets of paper on her desk, deciding that her job was done for the moment.

The young man nodded courteously at the beautiful receptionist, before going up to Damiens' office, Sedna and Marcus in tow. Of course, Sedna had to make sure that he did not accidentally step on a loose floorboard or slip or otherwise be affected by his klutziness, while Marcus Antonius was there to counteract Nathaniel's bad luck. And so they'd reach the office safely.

As the men entered the office they were greeted by the sight of an obviously overworked man with very little hair and stressed wrinkles across his face. It was the father of the Dallas Branch Manager whom poured over the documents and whom dreamed of opening up an official branch in San Antonio during his lifetime. In his left hand a large cigar burned, leaving trails of smoke to rush towards the ceiling. HIs eyes turned up as his door opened, he didn't smile. "You must be Nathaniel and his entourage? I've been waiting awhile for this meeting." He stood from his chair, extending his hand to Nathanial first, then the rest of the party.

A short bow as Nathaniel said, "Indeed, sir; I see that my reputation preceeds me. Including, it seems, my reputation as Tacitus Secundus." A pause as the young man took the merchant's hand and shook it; same for the others. "Either way, I should make this simple; there's money to be made in distributing 'Tacitus Secundus Tracts' throughout the Wasteland, money for the both of us. So I wish for a deal; you distribute the tracts as far and wide across Texas, preferably in areas in the Legion's projected path, and in exchange, I give you the exclusive distribution rights to my intellectual property...outside San Antonio and the areas under its jurisdiction."

Another pause. "Said tracts will include a new edition of 'On the Betrayal of the Twisted Hairs', with illustrations and drawings of Legion atrocities, and 'On the Ideology of Caesar's Legion', also with illustrations and drawings."

"Damien allowed his arms to rest on the desk between him and the San Antonio delegation, his arms folding at his chin so as to rest his head. His eyes closed for a solid moment as he considered the offer, he had of course had prior warning of what the offer might entail so he wasn't entirely surprised. There were of course several qustions that he would be forced to ask before any agreement could be made. Primarily what "Intellectual Property" would entail as well as where the Tracts would be produced and by whom. If they had to take up the job of importing or producing the paper and tracts themselves, it was entirely possible though there would have to be additional costs.

"Your deal is a fair one, though i am no lawyer. I cannot place a value on your intellectual property but i feel that i can still make a profit from it, especially if its a promised monopoly" he allowed the word Monopoly to sink in, usually it had negative connotations but seeing as how the faces didn't contort or display a feeling other than understanding, he himself knew that he was being promised such a deal. "My question, as i'm sure my son in Texas would wonder is this: Are we to produce the Tracts ourselves or should they only be distributed by SilverSwords many Caravaneers? As you may guess there will be additional costs should we produce the tracts along with handling the distribution, which we can do irregardless." He was hastily scribbling down certain key items from the discussion on a blank sheet of paper, his eyes never leaving the group in front of him.

Nathaniel smiled, "Production of the tracts themselves has already been contracted to various publishing houses in San Antonio; artists and illustrations likewise. So it seems that they'll have to be distributed by SilverSwords' caravans. Nevertheless, I want to saturate Texas and perhaps Oklahoma with the tracts, so I'd like to negotiate another deal; should San Antonio be unable to supply the demand for 'Tacitus Secundus Tracts' on their own, I will contribute to the additional costs of publication in Dallas itself." A pause. "Should San Antonio be unable to supply the demand for Tacitus Secundus Tracts on their own, which would not be the case for some months, allowing me and the publishing houses in San Antonio to make profits for that time."

Another question occured in Nathaniel's mind. "Now, question; what will be each party's percentage of the profits?"

Damien gave a short nod, understanding the needs of his potential clients. It was a big undertaking, one that could cause trouble with the Legion if it were discovered. Not that they couldn't preform the undertaking, on the contrary they could do it quite well. The clarification on the matter of production allowed for a small amount of stress relief, it was easier than having to organize it himself. "We can pick up production in Dallas should the current production in San Antonio not be sufficient for your needs." There was suddenly the question of profits and what each party would gain from it.

"Production is easy, distribution is the dangerous bit so we'll have to take a higher percentage. Still, the fact that you'll be willing to put forth the undertaking required to produce the tracts means that significant amounts of caps will have to be spent regardless. 65%. Our distribution channels are unmatched and should push come to shove it will be us who suffer by the legion in terms of reputation should it be found out who is distributing the Tracts. The Tracts themselves should be cheap enough to produce in small quantities, if your goal is to spread this propaganda then we can do it. If your goal is purely to profit from the endeavor, then there is more negotiation to be had. We can certainly provide you with paper from the east if your artists and illustrators can churn them out fast enough for us to distribute. I suppose our payment for the Tracts will be coming from the San Antonio Government?"

"Propaganda requires profit," Nathaniel said, "but I get your point. 65% is all right. As for funding for the Tracts, Despot Starbuck would gladly pay if he didn't have other distractions. But for now, he has, so I'll be contributing a downpayment of 8000 caps immediately."

He then took out a packet from his belt that contained exactly 8000 caps. He then said, "Would that be enough?"

Once again, Damien gave a short nod of understanding. "8000 Caps will be enough, i wouldn't have asked for any more or less than that. I do hope that he reimburses you for that" he looked towards the caps, expecting them to be handed over once the deal was finalized. "8,000 caps now along with 65 Percent of the profit from the distribution of these Tracts. San Antonio will handle production, but Dallas will pick up the production if San Antonio isn't able to meet the demands of our distribution network. We will place these Tracks within and around Legion Territory. " He read off the list of features on the contract. "We can pick the tracks up from here, it'll take a few days to reach Dallas and from there its off to Legion Territory. We'll handle the costs of transporting the Tracks." He offered a smile, "our lawyers can write this into a contract and have it sent to you for review and signing. For now though, if you agree, we can conclude this deal orally until the appropriate documents are filed and signed.

He shuffled the papers and set them aside. "Is there anything else you would like to discuss?"

Nathaniel shook his head, saying, "That'd be all for now; thank you for your time."

He and his entourage would then get up to leave...

by **The Traansval** » Tue Apr 10, 2018 9:05 pm

NewLakotah wrote:-snip-

Admiral DeGrass nodded, "It is protocol for a Virginian representative to be with at least two Guards at all time. I assure you we will not be starting any fights. Lead the way"

The ride up the river had been smooth, the Confederation sure did build good steamers. Probably fueled by the same West Virginia coal that the State buys from up the Potomac. He spent the trip up north on the deck, watching the scenery as it passed, the two Marines flanking him at all times with their rifles stowed in his quarters, pistols in unbuttoned holsters. He watched as they passed settlements, all flying the flag of the Confederation. A few times he'd see the Militiamen aboard, all decked to the nines in a Grey uniform. DeGrass thought it funny they'd dress in grey, and odd color. Virginia men dressed in green for camouflage and the marines in a light brown to blend with a ships hull.

When the ship came to port, DeGrass was greeted with the sight of Salisbury. It was a large town, similar to Suffolk or more aptly a port town like Elizabeth city. The river obviously brought much traffic along the route, and judging by the uniforms of the men sent to greet the Admiral it was an important town. Red, another odd uniform color. The Admiral wore a uniform of dark navy color, the custom of all Virginian Naval Officer stretching back to the founding of Norfolk; only the two Fleet Admirals who sat on the Joint Chiefs wore White Officers uniforms. The two marines, now rejoined with their rifles, flanked him as he was lead to meet with the Confederations representatives.

The building was a large affair. It looked old, pre-war, with lots of brick and mortar around. Merely by its lay out he could tell it was a former place of learning, much like the old universities found in Norfolk. As they walked, many men and women in suits and uniforms passed by. It was a busy place to be sure, and these people did not look like common wastelanders.

DeGrass turned to one of his Marines, slowly whispering; "I do believe they've brought up to their Capital! Perhaps i might have an audience with their King..."

Through the halls and up their stairs they went, until the Admiral was led to an office. He motioned with his hand for his Marines to stand down, they took up seats on the benches in the hall. The door was opened for him, and he stepped into a room that had all the trappings of a Office. He stopped in his tracks, a smile frozen on his face as he looked at a man behind a desk in a suit. The man rose, extending his hand to the Admiral.

If this is their King, then they must be in a sorry sort of affairs...

“Welcome to the Chesapeake Confederation and to Salisbury. I hope that your journey in was pleasant and you were well accommodated.” The man said, motioning to a chair.

Admiral DeGrass nodded, moving to take a seat.

"Thank you, Mister..."

DeGrass looked back slightly, seeing a name imprinted on the glass of the door. He'd been so caught up in his ideas of Kings that he missed it.

"... Armstead, Assistant Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Its good to meet you."

The old Admiral settled into his chair, slightly miffed at his brief obsession of meeting Kings.

"I am Admiral DeGrass, representative of Chairman Hayes and the State of Virginia. I have been entrusted by the Chairman to conduct a diplomatic mission to the Chesapeake Confederation in the goal of increasing... Cooperation. And trade. Between our two great nations. Uh, would you care for a Cigar? Tobacco grown from my families own plantation."

DeGrass took out the small cigar tin from his jacket, one already seemingly teleporting between his lips as he reached for a lighter, the open cigar tin being left on the Officers desk as a offer. As he lit his cigar and waited for the Officers response, he continued in his dialog;

"Tobacco like that is abundant in our slice of Virginia you know. Wine too, the finest wine this side of the wasteland. Did you know that a thousand years or so before the Great War, there were a group of men called "Vikings" that used to pillage up and down the oceans. They even established a colony on the Continent, they called it "Vinland". Vine land Mister Armstead, and thats what Virginia is."

He puffed on his cigar, the old tobacco smoke filling his lungs. It was a bad habit, he knew, but he was already old. Way the Admiral figured it, death would come about the same time whether it be lung cancer or a cannon ball.

"You see, in Virginia we are always on the lookout for Trade. Its our life blood, its why we build our navy to protect the waters our merchants operate on. Most of our trade is run through the Chesapeake Company, a State run merchant company that i'm sure you and your merchants are familiar with. Its simple really, they Merchants volunteer to sign up for the Company, and we provide Naval protection for Merchant ships in return for extra tax on their goods and... a bit of leverage in where they sell."

"This fair Confederation is a nation of Agriculture is it not. Grain, Maize and all sorts of Agricultural goods are farmed on the fertile fields of old Maryland. Virginia needs food, our terrain may boast fertile fields but so much is taken by Luxury goods and we've so little land in total to farm what with all the forests to our south that we're just scrapping by. Scrapping by isn't good enough."

DeGrass reached into his jacket, producing a scroll of parchment which he set gently on the Officers desk.

"This is a Treaty of Trade, signed by Chairman Hayes in a act of good faith, with only the signatures of a authorized representative of the Chesapeake and myself needed to finalize it. It stipulates a trade, the luxury goods of Wine, Tobacco, Sugar and other goods for the grain and food that Chesapeake has to offer."

The admiral stood up, taking his cap from his lap and slapping it back on his head.

"I assume you must confer with your higher ups on this. Either way, this is not something that should be rushed." DeGrass produced from his jacket a letter, which he placed on Armsteads desk, "I'm authorized by Chairman Hayes to establish a permanent Embassy in the Confederation, with your nations blessing of course. If you need me, i'll be staying at that lovely Hotel by the Docks."

DeGrass stood up to his full height, saluting Armstead before walking out, his Marines following him out of the government building to the Salisbury Lodge, where they booked the Presidential Suite with a fistful of Virginian Pounds.

by **Absolon-7** » Wed Apr 11, 2018 9:13 pm

Gonzales, November

Captain Clay furiously threw his helmet against his office's wall. He was dog tired getting the tribals to speak proper English. Their land had never been assimilated by any power that retained pre-war knowledge so their English devolved to some bastardized lesser dialect. After annexing the 'Square Republic' he had now been in charge of integrating them into the despotate. Now that he remembered it it was actually amusing how their little "war" ended. As agreed, his company had arrived in the ghost town where the duel would commence but half of the enemy militia had failed to show up. Propaganda about Caesar had been secretly circulating the past few months and the primitive mindsets of the tribals in the Square Republic had been easily fooled. Thus only 67 of the reported 112 had shown up to fight. As expected the fight had been swift and decisive. It wasn't even sundown when the skirmish ended. The Square Republicans had 7 deaths and 25 injured while San Antonio received 8 injured. After the duel, the company had decided to escort the survivors to Westhoff where they would wait until the Minister of Diplomacy arrived. Once he arrived, the treaty was quickly signed and the Square Republic now belonged to San Antonio.

San Antonio City Hall

Sam Black, the Minister of Diplomacy, sat in his chair perplexed. The other day a messenger from some tribe in the Rio Grande had contacted San Antonio with a letter asking for safe travel and trade for the time being. What was strange was that they were apparently akin to the ancient Aztecs. Unlike most he had actually paid attention in history class when it was about pre-war times and he vaguely recollected that these were similar to those of the past. Well, as long as they didn't rip any of his citizen's hearts out it wouldn't be any trouble dealing with them. He began writing a letter agreeing to their requests.

by **Theyra** » Thu Apr 12, 2018 3:25 am

Missouri, St.Louis

"Still there are those in the Senate that willing to let the Republic of Tennessee take more land near us? "Do they not see the possible threat posed by them or do they have no spines? Consul Faenia Surius replied in annoyance as she rose up from her chair and looked at Head Magistrate Sergius Korland for a answer. The meeting between the Consuls, senior military officials and lead magistrates was in full swing and had taken a tense tone.

Sergius was about to speak when Consul Alanus raised his hand to stop Sergius and he compiled. "Consul Faenia calm yourself, Alanus spoke in a asserted voice. "Do need not blame Sergius for the thoughts of the magistrates that do not seek a war". "He is merely reporting the thoughts of his fellow magistrates and besides, enough magistrates in the Senate are with us about our uncertainty with Tennessee". "Plus the people in the south and our ghoul citizens share the sentiment".

Faenia slowly sat back down in her chair, "still Alanus, I wonder why those few can be blind to a potential threat and one at our doorstep".

"Not all in the senate have served in the military like you Faenia and we should continue on with this meeting". Alanus turned his attention to a ghoul seating near the middle of the table and wearing roman-styled general uniform. "General Archer, our military is ready for the operation?

The old general spoke with a formal voice but raspy voice that us custom with ghouls,"Yes sir, the Republic's forces are ready to began marching to their objectives as per the plan". "Everything is set and we just need we just need the go-ahead".

"You have it", Faenia spoke with a serious tone. "We can not afford to wait and see what Tennessee does after they expand". "Plus, we now have friends that feel the same way and one is already fighting them". "They need support and we are ready to aid them".

"General Archer", Alanus speaking now. "Move our troops into position and begin operations as soon as they are able".

"Yes sir, we should...." Archer is interrupted by the sound of the door to the room and a aide walks inside. Everyone looks to see the aide and she makes a small now before addressing the room. "Consuls, I know you are busy but, we have received emissaries from the Republic of Tennessee". "They seek to discuss a non-aggression pact with the Roman Republic and they are waiting in Embassy Quarters".

Both Consuls turned to speak to each and instead of talking, they simply gave a look at each other and nodded in agreement if they had just mental agreement with each other. Faenia spoke first, "Have them detained and put them into a quarters befitting unfortunate messengers". The aide looked at Alanus for his confirmation and he nodded, "Keep a guard on them at all times during their stay".

"It will be done my Cousuls", the aide replayed and left the room shortly.

Before the meeting was over, Alanus turned to a women wearing. " Norbana have the Frumentarii increase their watchful eye over the Roman Republic". "We do not need Tennessee spies in our mists". Alanus then focused on the man next to Archer. "Admiral Celer, have our navy move to Cape Girardeau to ready it's defenses and make sure nothing comes up the Mississippi river understand?

Both Norbana and Celer replied with yes sir and the meeting ended soon after. The army would be split into two groups, 1st and 2nd Army Groups. The 1st were ordered to start moving along I-64 eastward to Evansville, Kentucky. The Auxilia, half of the Legionary, half of the Praetorians and the First,Third, Fifth and Six Legions would make up the 1st Army group. While the 2th consisting Second and Fourth Legions along with the rest of the Legionary and Praetorians went to march south to Cairo.
..........................................................
Elsewhere in Missouri
Undisclosed location

Another meeting was taking place in a small office between two men. One a greying black haired man wearing a roman-styled robe seating behind a desk and the other younger red-haired man in a mercenary outfit.
“That is the only and last time I will accept any possible recruits that Jacob recommonds for the Frumentarii”. Albinus said angrily while rubbing his right head temple. “The one person he recommends not only lost his cover to a foreign agent very fast in a simple reconnaissance mission”. “He then helps said foreign agent to relocate from a hostile situation and all without knowing of who this foreign agent works for”.

“For Jacob’s credit, Caleb is loyal and was honest about what happened on the mission”. Saturio added in a reassuring tone despite knowing the response he is going to receive.

Albinus stopped rubbing his head and gave a glaring look at Saturio. “Those is the only things that are going for Caleb right now”. “He is out of the Frumentarii and is somehow a “informed” contact now”. “If was not for Volusia somehow still seeing a use for Caleb’s caravan contacts”. “I would have never allowed that brain-dead idiot with any thing with the Frumentarii after this …….. Mess”.

Saturio took a breath and leaned in to the desk, “Albinus while I know and can clearly tell how you feel about Caleb and I can share my own siliamar thoughts”. “I think that I am not here just so you can have someone to vent to”.

Albinus uttered a audible growl before taking a deep breath to calm himself. He rested both of his hands on top of each other while on his desk, “You mission is to deal with the aftermath of Caleb’s recon mission”. “Primarily finding out who this Nathaniel Viridian works for”. “I picked you since I hopefully can trust you with this and you will not be alone on this op”.

Saturio leaned back for the desk with had a serious look on his face and spoke with a focused voice, “How many do I get for this mission and what else can you talk me about his Nathaniel?

“Two others agents, your pick and Nathaniel is last seen traveling with two companions” “A women and the son of a senator from Augustum”. Albinus leaned back to take out a file from out of his desk and placed it near Saturio. Albinus made another small growl, “that is another saving grace thing about Caleb, he has a good memory when it comes to faces”.

Saturio became curious when he heard a senator's son was with the agent. “Why is a senator’s son with this guy? He asked as he picked up the file and started to read it.

“I do not know and I do not care”. “What I do care about is who this Nathaniel works for and the last place we know the trio was is at a place in Texas called San Antonio”. Albinus added, “it is not much to go on and we do not have good information about the state of things that far west”.

“Why should right now? Saturio joking said and looked at Albinus. “The only reason we sent someone out west was to find out if the talk of western romans had truth to it”. “I would be surprised if we did and it sure not take me long to find my partners”. “I have two in mind and they should be open for a fresh assignment”.

“Good and you leave for as soon as you can, we need answers after Caleb’s mistake”. Albinus leaned in and gave Saturio a stern look. “You should be better then Caleb but, just in case”. “Do not make this worse and if this somehow ends up like Caleb’s mission”.

“I know what will happen Albinus”, Saturio replied with a irritated tone. “Unlike Caleb, I have done this before and I am not a greenhorn”. “Or why else would you choose me to do this if you thought I would mess up that bad”.

“Just hoping things do not repeat as all”, Albinus backed off and calmed down.“I should not be keeping you here anymore as you have a man to find”.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Thu Apr 12, 2018 3:08 pm

St. Louis
Glenn Upchurch was not happy, to say the least. He had been sent to the Roman Republic to secure lasting peace and trade. How did the Romans greet him? By treating him like he was a criminal. They had detained him, placed armed guards on him, and refused to even entertain his requests to speak to someone in authority. Nevermind that he had a job to do and had carried only a single M57 pistol for protection. Clearly the Roman Republic had no interest in peace. They appeared deadset on going to war with the Republic.
He walked from the window to his door and back again for what seemed like the millionth time and then punched the wall. Whatever had he done to deserve this kind of treatment? He had been given no explanation. He had simply been forced into this room and he was not allowed to leave. He walked over to the door and shouted, "I AM A CITIZEN OF THE REPUBLIC OF TENNESSEE AND THE REPUBLIC'S DIPLOMATIC ENVOY AND I DEMAND TO BE RELEASED IMMEDIATELY!" He didn't expect anything to come of it. Not anything productive, anyways.

Route 41

Private Warren Gibson had arrived in Kentucky three days ago. The soldiers in his squad ribbed him constantly because his uniform was still clean and because his face was smooth, with no evidence of ever having grown facial hair. And why would it? He was barely 16 years of age and had lied his way into the Army. His father had served and constantly talked about how every man who didn't join was a boy and a coward and didn't deserve to call themselves a man. He had decided to prove to his father that he wasn't a boy anymore and had joined the Army when the first calls had gone out. Training had been horrible and he had felt like quitting. But he had pushed through. He had graduated and had been shipped off to Kentucky. This is it, he had thought the day they told him where he was going. Father will see now. I'm a man. But when he'd arrived, it wasn't at all like his father had said it was. The soldiers seemed mean spirited, saying cruel things to each other and laughing at the distress the replacements wore across their faces. Warren had been at the front for only three days and he wanted more than anything to be back home in Chattanooga.
I'm a fool, he thought for the thirtieth time as he pushed open a door. His squad had been instructed to clear the buildings on the road leading up to Hopkinsville. They were all abandoned and decrepit, with their roofs caved in and anything of value, in any meaning of the word, stripped out. Warren stepped through the door and saw nothing. As he turned to leave, he heard someone groan. He moved further into the building. "Hello," he said softly has he raised his rifle and tightened his grip on it. "Is anyone there?" He turned around to see the door closing behind him. It slammed shut with a loud bang and he flinched. He slowly opened his eyes and swallowed hard. It's alright, Warren. It was probably just the floor. Ain't nobody here.
"Ya think 'e gone, Mack?" The gravelly voice startled Warren and he froze. "Maybe. I ain't hearin' nuttin. Grim, take a peek." A small hatch in the floor ahead of him opened and he saw gaunt, mutated face poke through the hole in the floor. FIRE! a small voice in his head exclaimed. He concentrated on pulling the trigger but nothing happened. His finger hovered over the trigger but didn't move, no matter how hard he commanded it to. The figure before him lifted its hands in the same move he'd made on the schoolyard. A protective stance. The figure spoke, softly but in a gravelly, earthy voice. "Please, don't hurt us," the figure said. Warren leaned to see behind the creature and saw three others. All of them recoiled and huddled against a back wall. Warren lifted his left hand from his weapon, letting the barrel lower to point at the floor. His arm extended, his hand waving in the eons old indication of "No." "It's alright," he said, "You're safe." The creatures relaxed just as the door was thrown open again.
"HEY, FUCK STICK! WHACHA GOT THERE?" Private Steven Hansen walked over to him and saw what Warren saw. Hansen leveled his M3 Machine gun and opened fire. Warren covered his ears and fell to the ground. His hands did nothing to drown out the gunfire and the screams. He heard a ping and a metallic thunk and Hansen said, "FIRE IN THE HOLE!" The explosion followed a few seconds later, followed by a strong grip on his harness. "What the FUCK were you thinking, Fuck Stick? You were gonna let some fucking ghouls stab us in the back? What the FUCK is wrong with you?" Warren couldn't speak. His mouth moved but no words came out. "Where the fuck are you even from?"
"Cha-cha-Chattanooga."
"No fucking wonder. You fuckers are all fucking soft on Ghouls. Get this through your skull and get it quick: Ghouls are dangerous. The only way they don't kill you is if you kill them first. GET IT, you fucking retard?" Warren nodded but he wasn't looking at Hansen. His eyes were staring into the cellar at the mangled corpses that he had lied to. I don't belong here, he thought. Hansen stormed out of the building, leaving Warren alone. Warren slid down the wall, silently sobbing as tears rolled down his cheeks.

by **Prusslandia** » Thu Apr 12, 2018 7:53 pm

San Antonio, Texas

Decimus rubbed his eyes as he made quick work of searching his small room, and began to unpack his belongings once he was pleased with it. Several weeks ago the Legate had dispatched several of his Frumentarii to the areas south and east of Belli Civitas, to act as scouts and infiltrators in the dens of dissolute that would soon fall beneath the thumb of Caesar. They had began as a group, stopping in settlements as a caravan of travelers; One or two men would stay behind as the group moved on, allowing for a linking chain of communication to flow towards Belli Civitas, sending details of defenses and weaknesses. Many of his brothers now resided in such locations, with only two now on the road, Decimus and another having stopped within the large city. Acting and speaking as if they were uneducated scavvers, they rented a small room and began their clandestine work.

Lubbock, Texas

As the night stars winked above, blood ran in the streets of Lubbock. Hundreds of armored warriors ran amok throughout the city, cruel laughter and savage blows, in tune with the responding screams and cries for mercy and salvation both. Craters smoked, home to arcing flames of atomic fire and ash, intermixed with towering ballista bolts. The percussive staccato of rifle fire rang through the air, often followed by screams and the sound of flesh being rended from bone and muscle. It all came together to form a symphony, of war and death, of morbid beauty.

Amidst the carnage moved a single man, a strong man, tall, with eyes as blue and cold as the arctic sea. His .45 pistol barked retorts to declarations of survival and gunfire, the biblical verses he shouted aloud serving as his choir. His jeans and SLCPD vest were covered with ash and blood, darkening and muting their colour in equal measure. His entourage looked as if they sprung from a novel, forged blades swinging through the air alongside military grade rifles and shotguns, pulping and slicing as their wielder wished.

Joshua recited the Word as he rampaged through the Dissolute of the city, a manic glee within his heart, relishing the kick of his pistol and the weight of the axe on his back. It was all a blur to him, pained screams and latin rejoicing melding into a singular burst of noise, as the scent of gunmetal and fire clashed with the repulsive odor of viscera and shit in the air. He, and his retinue, were headed towards the ‘Mayoral Estate’, which housed the bulk of the cities remaining defenders, the rest either cut down or having surrendered soon after they breached the walls of the city, little more than an hour ago. The nuclear engines lobbed by the trebuchets had created their first entry point, and the charges hidden by the Frumentarii within created the second and third. Once the Cohort had begun to enter the city, it was nothing more than a massacre.

It was not long before they reached their goal, finding Legionaries already within the courtyard, slaughtering through the pitiable sheep of Lubbock. The dead of both parties lay scattered about, evidence of the meager strength held by the Dissolute they were bringing to heel. Wasting no time, the Malpais Legate made his way into the home, .45 bullets lodging themselves within the flesh of all who opposed his holy mission. He soon reached the personal quarters of the Mayor herself. Swiftly kicking the door in, he found himself surprised to find not but a single guard within, who had done little more than raise his rifle in shock before a gladius made its way into his gut, and a .45 to his frontal lobe.

Joshua walked slowly then, holstering his pistol as he made his way forward. The mayor sat on the ground, tears on her face as she cradled an infant, shakily holding a combat knife in some childish attempt to protect her and her brood. The sight of it caused Graham to laugh, a deep, sickening chortle full of naught but cruelty. Once within range he kicked his leg forward, knocking the blade from her hand, swiftly cracking his heel into her jaw with the momentum of the first movement. She gave out a whimpering cry as she flung back, the baby tumbling from her grasp onto the cold stone floor, the babe immediately wailing in distress and fear.

Though no one saw, a seldom seen compassion emerged from the Legate’s face. He grabbed the child, shushing it as he rocked it, managing to quiet it, at least to some degree, cooing at it with some measure of affection. This expression turned to one of cold rage as the woman screamed and jumped at him for the child, having somehow retrieved the knife, thinly slicing his forearm as he raised it to protect the child. He backhanded her with all his strength, watching her become unconscious the moment his strike landed on her cheek.

Turning, Joshua spoke to the waiting men behind him, his gravelly voice filled with conflicting tones of zeal and cold pragmatism.

“Cassius, take the woman and anyone resistors that survive. They’re to be immolated come down.”

The armored Praetorian gave a nod, bumping his fist to his chest as he muttered a simple response, “Ita Vero, Legatus.”, directing the other two Legionaries to grab her arms as they made their way out of the building. Turning his gaze back down to the now sleeping child, he quietly rocked him to sleep, speaking softly to him.

“None of this would’ve happened if they had kneeled, little joy. Yet now your mother is gone, the same as whoever your father was, but they do not matter. You are a son of Caesar now, little joy, and the Lord will smile upon you.”

Joshua gave a small, genuine smile as he muttered hymns to the baby, looking outside as the city burned, nothing but the elation of victory and manic faith filling him.

by **Parcia** » Thu Apr 12, 2018 8:48 pm

Discovery and development

The old Key west high school was chosen as the new industrial heart of the Clan. The building it self is planned to be turned in to a single large production facility to contain the main production shops of the clan. with the workforce now enlarged by the influx of warriors, many are split in to smaller groups. The first, and larger of the two, is formed in to "The Public Works" department and tasked with the rebuilding and maintenance of the city of Keywest proper. First is the fortification of the city and its boundaries. The idea is to use a combination of stone and mortar to rebuild the old and battered rock embankment of the island chain, while a second group to maintain the roads and still standing buildings.

The smaller group, roughly made up of a hundred men and women, are set aside to form four groups of people. 25 are to be tasked with the staffing and building of ammo and shells as well as weapon parts for the rifles, shotguns, and pistols of the Clans reforming military. Another 25, on top of the existing 12, are to be set aside for the production for the Vesra SMG, as the rearming of the navy as well as the possibility of exporting the SMG to other nations is considered and largely supported. The third group, made up of roughly 15 individuals, is broken up in to three smaller teams and tasked with translating the English documents of the School large library and the data on hand at the Air station for future use, each team has its own objectives.

Team A is tasked with recovering documents, books, and tapes regarding the status of military equipment used by the pre-Ragnarok US military (uniforms, web gear, the like). Team B is tasked with researching and finding any data on he pre-Ragnarok medical devises and materials, as the current practice of medicine powder and natural remedies is deemed to weak or slow acting for the troops and the population at large. Team C is tasked with researching and discovering the past battles and victories, and arguably just as important, defeats of the US military, as well as to examine its tactics and doctrins.

The last group of 25 is given to Shawn and his 4 man team who are hard at work restoring the old yet serviceable engines of the C-2 Greyhound. In the two weeks since the the beast was found in its surprisingly good condition. With the last two weeks devoted to full working condition, save the engines. With the full repair of the body it self, the work of the engines begins with a test firing of both of the MF cell powered engine, with both running, and being able to feather their propellers, but not running fast enough to achieve anything that it they could fly. It is noted that the engines both ran rough, with the old pre-war cores being nearly drained with a few even dead. The 30 man team would split in to two 15 men teams, one to clean out and service the turbo-prop engines, and the other to scavenge other MF cells and larger MF cores, if possible for power generation use, to fuel the engines.

An important discovery is made in the form of two books, the first being one being called "The patriots Cook book", and a second, less well made copy seemingly to have come from a anti-Government organization hell bent on fighting the US government. Both books, while their political knowledge is largely ignored, the vast amounts of knowledge covering improvised explosives, and a intriguing substance known as "Napalm", said to be able to burn for days one end.

A smaller, 11 men team is secretly set aside to find more of this "Styrofoam" as well as any nits of kerosene and Petroleum Jelly.

by **Holy Lykos** » Fri Apr 13, 2018 12:07 am

Eleve la Bandera Solar Alta

A few months into the Aztlaner's beginning to dwell in Laredo, the Solar Flag was flying high over much of the surrounding region of Webb-Zapata. The outposts in outlying settlements of Hebronville, Zapata, Encinal, Freer, and Colombia had been well established and used as staging points to push beyond their small area of influence and towards the wider world. Being on the main roads towards Laredo, they would also double as a way to watch roads and stage patrols on their 'border'. To keep raiders and hostile forces at bay and warn the main camps.

To trade with their new partners in San Antonio. The few traders from the Federation itself had really only been the start, as individual tribes and even enterprising individuals themselves were moving north to trade and returning with a variety of supplies from the Despotate. Though many returned expressing distaste at the authoritarian nature of their new trade partner. Not enough to be much of an issue, yet but it might develop into one with time. Personal freedom was a big deal in the Federation.

More still had joined, and like previous months more were beginning to train. The Eagles and Jaguars were beginning to expand ranks towards 500, both projecting to have that many by the end of of the year already. While not as well trained as the old guard, they would at least be properly armed and armored for their positions, pelts and guns and steel armors all. Training for them and the Hummingbirds would of course take time, but with the great expansion of their peoples, every one new member could train ten more. It was only exponential growth from there.

Meanwhile, Xiuhcoatl had another mission to the south to prepare. The ocelotl had found the source of many of the pale and chalk-covered raiders the tribes had been skirmishing with throughout their territory. A petty king had set himself up in Mac Allen, a city further along the Great River, in a religious cult that was preying on both sides of the River. He ruled like a true Despot, answering to no one and with no respect for morality or law. Ruling over tens of thousands of people like a god and a slave driver. An evil person. One who did not know a proper, righteous nation had learned of his true depravity and had made certain it was time to strike at his empire of cards. Only the fanatical followers would follow such a despot. A liberating army would only push his people to overthrow him or to allow them to pass in peace.

And the Nahua tribe along with others of the Aztlan Federation had decided to go to war. Warriors were being marshaled, sacrifices to the gods of war and mercy were being made, and duties shuffled to account for the missing thousands of warriors marching south to free the oppressed peoples of Grand River. Xiuhcoatl road ahead, with the intent to offer him safe exile should the Despot of Mac Allen simply abdicate.

It was only fair, and in Hueyzotzin's teachings, after all. "Be just to your foes and your friends equally. Do not suffer those who subjugate and enslave for all people are equal under Heaven. Strike and strike hard to show such things were barbarism and evil and would be punished by the faithful of the Gods. Do not suffer injustice to live, for inaction breeds only more suffering and injustice."

Amen.

A just war, this would be. Xiuhcoatl knew it. She would prove the appropriateness of her name, the Turquoise Dragon, once more. She would mount the Despot's head on a spike and offer his death as an offering to the Bleeding Sun.

by **The Traansval** » Fri Apr 13, 2018 12:55 pm

Charleston

The ship rocked backwards under the force of the sea below it, a large spray of salt water coming over the side and soaking Corporal James Tyler to his bones. He spit out a bit of seawater, shaking his legs to try and dry his uniform. He rifle strapped on his back, he clung to the side of the Cutter he and his battalion were on.

Two weeks ago, Tyler and the 4th Infantry Regiment were stationed in Suffolk on guard duty with the Northern Brigade. Then the order came down from High Command to move to port in Norfolk, where they were picked up by the Cutters VSS Maryland and Washington and the sixth rate Suffolk, all three just recently completed from the Virginia beach naval yards. After they'd left shore, the Colonel of the 4th came aboard to in form the men of their mission; they were to sail south and join with their allies in the Gulf Commonwealth.

Which all lead Tyler to his current situation. The small squadron of three ships were coming within range of Charleston. A strong storm was over the sea, with the ships using the light of Charleston light house to steer their way in. Their ships came in closer and closer, the rain pouring down hard as crewmen used buckets to bail out any water that collected on shore. The lean ships came into port, sails were closed and anchors dropped to slow speed. Sailors threw ropes overboard, caught by the dockhands onshore. Tyler let go of the side railing, running over to where the rest of the landing party was. Eight unlucky soldiers chosen to go aboard first while the rest of the men go to stay nice and dry below deck...

A door opened, the dark deck bathed in a warm golden light. Two men came out, one carrying a rather large umbrella. Following them was a man in a beige uniform, two silver birds pinned on his lapels. Colonel Harvey Durant, commander of the 4th Infantry. The landing party stood at attention, the colonel waved them down.

"Well, no time like the present boys"

Tyler moved forward, unlatching the gate on the side and sliding it open as three others lowered the gangplank. The colonel and his officers stepped off first, followed by the party and Tyler. Onshore, a group of Gulf Officers were standing, waiting. One checked his watch, his uniform more sophisticated then the others around him, denoting him as the commanding officer. Colonel Durant strode the length of the dock, saluting the Gulf men when he reached them, extending a hand gloved in leather.

"Greetings. I am Colonel Harvey Durant, 4th Virginian Infantry Regiment, reporting for Deployment."

Tarheel

"Half speed, forward"

Private Alan Moresby gripped the side panel of the Betsy a little harder after hearing Lieutenant Graves from his position in the top. Moresby and the Auxiliaries were stuffed onto the back bench, four men sitting on each side while 2nd Lieutenant Frommer sat on the floor with a map in his hands. The Betsy was one of three Armored Cars apart of the 1st Armored Regiment, which was now moving through Tarheel to join up with the 3rd Brigade near the Outpost. They were moving in a convoy formation; one in the front taking point while two behind side by side. Betsy was taking point, and Moresby was on edge, watching the horizon to make sure they wouldn't get ambushed.

They'd spent two months in Training, learning not only all that shit they teach you in basic but also Armored Car tactics, hell they even taught everyone how to use on of these in case one of the crew died. This was a new form of war, and they were on the braking edge. Moresby was a Auxiliary, one of the men who sat in the back. His job was to jump off the back with his squad and fight as infantry. They'd learned tactics back in training, "Hit and Run" was what the Sarge called it. Jump off, hit em hard, jump back on and run. And pretty soon, Moresby had a feeling he'd get to put what he learned to the test.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Fri Apr 13, 2018 3:08 pm

Quick Update on the Republican Military
The Third and Fourth Regiments have completed their four and a half months of retraining and are now beginning their marches to the Kentucky. They will replace the First and Second Regiments, who will be sent south for four and a half months of retraining.

The Four Regiments drafted 10 weeks ago are eight weeks into their 30 week training period. The Fifth is training in Memphis, the Sixth in Knoxville, the Seventh in Atlanta, and the Eighth at Huntsville. These regiments will receive their orders when they are closer to completing their training.

by **Dragos Bee** » Fri Apr 13, 2018 8:04 pm

((Collab post between Dragos Bee and Absolon-7.))

Nathaniel Green and his Companions

Nathaniel Green would ask for another appointment with Despot Starbuck; one more discreet than the last one. After recent developments both north and south, the young man needed to take a break from training his dexterity to meet up with the ruler of the city; he needed to bring up said developments to the ruler of the city in private. Hopefully, he'd be trusted enough for a discreet meeting where he can voice his concerns and ideas to the man; Nate already had plans for taking advantage of recent news.

A request from that chap, Nathaniel Green, had come to Despot Starbuck's office recently asking for a private audience. He didn't see tha harm in it as long as it was in his own office. And if he tunred out to be an assassin, which he doubted, Starbuck had his trusty pistol with him from his days in the military. Fastest Shot North of the Grande used to be his nickname. After organzing his desk in order to have any necessary information on hand, he called the City Hall Secretary to let him into his office.

The young man would enter the office, trying as hard as he could to be courteous; he quite liked the Despot. He said as he sat down in front of his 'employer', in a tone that conveyed concern, "Two things. One, have you heard the news from Lubbock two weeks ago? And Two, the Aztlan Federation; they seem to be decent people; I must admire the trade deal you gave them. That said, their traders speak of gathering thousands of people and migrating them north, within range of the Legion. That will make them eventual enemies, and the Federation will lose in the state that they are now."

His lips went into a thin frown. "I don't think it will be in any party's interest except the Legion's to allow such a loss to happen. Again, the Aztlan Federation are decent people, and decent fighters too; I've been talking to their traders recently."

"I don't believe I have heard of Lubbock. I've been quite busy overseeing the repairs on the solar farms and railway connecting San Antonio and Houston. To your second point, Mr. Black did mention them to me after their messenger was released. Quite odd folk if you ask me. Now what did you have in mind with these two points?" questioned Despot Starbuck.

Nathaniel sighed, "Two weeks ago - the news has just reached this city yesterday night and today - the Legion sacked the town of Lubbock, far to the north. There was the usual slaugther and destruction, with their leader, the Malpais Legate, wading in a pool of blood. Combined with previous reports of Legion expansion, this shows that they won't stop in their drive to sieze as much of Texas as they could." A frown at that, "Lubbock also proves that the Legion have interests south of Amarillo; it is a road nexus leading to several towns closer to San Antonio."

He then continued, "As for the second point, the Aztlan have shown they can expand their tribe to immense numbers in record time; even with the women and children subtracted, that still makes for a decent force. They still can't withstand the Legion in pitched battlle once they migrate north...unless their numbers are fully bolstered by guns, horses, and allies."

He then recited from memory: "San Antonio has 1,651 soldiers. The NCT, if it is convinced of the Legion's threat, has 7,900 people. Aztlan's numbers are currently 3000 - 4000, including women and children, but the traders and trading tribes are talking about getting as many people from the surrounding area to join them in their exodus; if they succeed, they'd double or triple their numbers by the time they migrate. All together, subtracting the armies needed for home defense, the Legion army of 15,000 can be engaged in battle and expelled from Texas if enough people are convinced of their threat. And they are a threat; they are committing atrocities that can be indepedently verified and whose evidence does not just rest on my word."

"Well that's a lot to take in," said Despot Starbuck, " If I remeber correclty Lubbock is still a vast distnace away. I hope those devils burn for what they did it wouldn't be wise trecking all the way over there in unfamiliar hinterlands. The best strategy would be to wait and fight them at some halfwaypoint. As for the Aztlaners, it was agreed that they would have our protection and I'm not one to go back on their word. Maybe if you went and talked to them, they'd be willing to fight besides us when the time comes, you do have a way with words after all. Hopefully, they're beleivers in "you scrath my back, I'll scratch yours".

Nathaniel nodded at that and replied, "Thanks, Mr. Starbuck. And indeed, I plan to talk with the people of Aztlan when the time comes. Same for engaging the Legion forces at a halfway point; they seem to be making that easier for us. That said, fair warning; the Legion is probably seeking me out, same for agents of another Roman-based faction, the 'New Roman Republic'; they're based in the Northeast, or so one of their spies - whom I persuaded to help me slip out of Augustum - said. Augustum's own agents and agents of other nations might also be interested in 'Tacitus Secundus', so I think you'd need to activate your counterespionage assets soon."

"A third Rome? How strange the wasteland can be...Anyways, in the intrests of your safety it would be best for you to head out to Azltan down the Interstate 35 as soon as you can to open negotiations. Meanwhile my Secret Police will root out any Legion spies. Is that all Mr.Green?" said Despot Starbuck.

A smile. "Almost. The New Roman Republic is only coming after me out of curiosity; as you yourself know, I am a naturally interesting person. I'd like to ask that their agents, if successfully differentiated from the Legion's, be treated hospitably and even given the same information that I told you about my origins in Old America's far west. As for Augustum's; they'd turn to our side once the Legion is defeated in pitched battle, so similar lenience can be shown to them as well."

He then bowed deeply. "And with that, I must take my leave and prepare for mine and my companion's departure."

"Very well. I'll lend you horses to travel faster and have the 5th Dragoon Squadron escort you from the city gate to the border or beyond if you wish. Good luck on your mission, Mr. Green." explained Despot Starbuck.

"Thank you, sir," Nathaniel said as he prepared to depart...

by **Tayner** » Fri Apr 13, 2018 9:56 pm

Southeast Brotherhood of Steel
Fort Knox, Kentucky
Elder Elias Heart

By now, the Southeastern Chapter of the Brotherhood of Steel was in full swing. After testing the plausibility of sustained use of nuclear powered Vertabirds and deploying them on low level engagements, Elias was confident in their newfound ability to project force. Their force simply multiplied with the new additions of air power, and unexpectedly was APCs. The ability to rapidly deploy large quantities of troops and supply them fire support on the battlefield was crucial. The report on the Raid on the Bluegrass Army Munitions Depot perfectly exemplified this.

About a week ago, Elias had tasked Head Palidin McBride to scavenge an old Army munitions depot. With their five Vertabirds, thirty paladins swept through the skies and burned through a raider encampment with no casualties, and recovered multiple crates of energy cells and microfusion cells along with more weapons and munitions that the raiders had stockpiled. They took everyone that wasn't nailed to the floor and returned to Fort Knox. A few of the captured terminals showed locations of pre-war military checkpoints across the region, and the supplies were a boon for the chapter, a morale boost knowing that they were achieving their mission.

However, a more militant strategy would have to be taken up with the locals in order to fully accomplish their mission. The Brotherhood had offered the nearby trading hub of Elizabethtown protection, but were coldly rejected. Elizabethtown, as a larger settlement in the region, objected to the idea of showing weakness by bending their knee to an outside faction, and wasn't too pleased with the Brotherhood philosophy or with rumors they had gathered. This was a direct obstacle in the course of the Brotherhood's mission, and a necessary application of force would have to be put under way.

The previous night six Knights were sent to scout the city. Once sun broke, they relayed intelligence and information back to Fort Knox. Within the hour, twelve APCs and five Vertabirds deployed a total of 138 fully T-51 armored Paladins, equipped with a variety of energy weapons and heavy weapons. The city gates were blown open after the city guards started taking potshots at the Brotherhood, and from there everything escalated. Of the city's population of nearly 2,000, only around 50 were believed to be paramilitary or professional soldiers. Projections showed that at least three times that number would be militia combatants, totaling at minimum 200 enemy combatants.

The Brotherhood Rules of Engagement were simple, kill anything that poses a threat to the Brotherhood's mission, or their troops. Take nearly every bit of technology that wasn't nailed down. Anything more complex than a radio would be taken, and even in some cases radios would be confiscated. Work their way towards city hall, and once there, simply kill the town's leadership. From there the Brotherhood could exert control over the city, and place a friendly government in charge. From here it was expected that about every settlement under Brotherhood protection would willingly submit to Brotherhood rule, and many smaller towns on the borders wouldn't think twice about surrendering to the Brotherhood.

It was now when the Brotherhood of Steel established a permanent presence in Kentucky.

by **Theyra** » Sat Apr 14, 2018 4:19 am

Evansville, Kentucky
The 1st Army Group’s march to Evansville had gone uneventful up to entering the city itself. The citizens of the city were rightly concerned about a large force coming from the nearby Republic. The city had joined the Kentucky Pact and its leaders were thinking that the Republic was taking it chance to invade Kentucky. They were still setting up their forces when a small entourage from the 1st approached the city under word of peace. The leaders were reluctant to meet with the entourage and only after discreetly hinting about their mutual ally, did the leaders agree to met. After it was made clear about the Republic’s intentions at the meeting did the leaders allow the 1st to enter and set up in the city. General Conner Malchus was in a makeshift tent near a former police station and was busy coordinating the next phase of the plan while the troops took a breather. While the general was busy, a Frumentarii agent was sent east to find the closest group of Mothmen and bore them a message.

“The Romans have answered your call for aid and we wait for your forces in Evansville to drive out Tennessee from Kentucky”. “Send what troops you can to meet up with ours as soon as possible". "With our combined might can we hope to drive them out".

Cairo, Illinois
The 2nd Army group had reached Cairo and was busy securing the nearby bridge so the 2nd can safely cross river. The Roman citizens of Cairo were understandably tense as the 2nd took over the 51 in order to move as fast as possible down in. Most gave way fast to the 2nd and a few stubborn traders had to be forced to get off the highway. With the 51 clear of traffic and the vanguard of the 2nd being lead by a detachment of Legionary moved across the bridge set up defensive position as they kept watch for any sign of Tennessee troops. Granted if things went as planned, Tennessee should not know a thing till the 2nd crossed the bridge and entered their territory. General Aquila Teller knew this and had sent a squad of Praetorians among the vanguard to scout the town that was in their way. "This should be fast and easy till Tennessee realizes what is happening", Aquila thought. He knew the plan and what is at sake for the Republic. He was committed to doing what he needed to do but, a quote he remembered from his days of studying military tactics what old world books the Republic has kept popping up in his mind, “No plan survives contact with the enemy”.

San Antonio, Texas
“This place should fit us for now and we can start looking around the city for our friend”. Candidus said as he finished unpacking his gear. Saturio and his fellow agents had not only arrived in San Antonio but, have already found a place to stay at while their locate their target. Saturio himself sitting down on one of the beds and looking at the file of Nathaniel. Stroking his goatee as he wondered if this Nathaniel is still in the city. “Though we could have found a nicer hotel, Candidus said joking as he stretched his arms. Candidus was around age range of Saturio, mid to late twenties and was of a dark complexion and had short brown hair.
Saturio put away the file in a hidden compartment in his bag and looked at Candidus with a joking face. “You are saying that place in Columbia was better?

“No… no, I am not saying that hellhole was better”. “This place is definitely better but, it would nice to rest at a...... fancier establishment for once”.

Saturio had a short laugh, “maybe down the road but, for now let’s stick to what we make due with, Adam”.

“Like always Henry, like always and Ash should be back by now”.

Saturio was about to add but, the sound of a key unlocking the door stopped the two men from talking. They tensed up till they saw that a mid-twenty year old women with medium length brown curly hair entered the room. She closed the door behind her and locked it. As she turned to the two, “I have found a place to eat and maybe relax and work”.

“Sounds good and I hope the food is good at least”. Saturio said and Rusonia gave him a look.

“Henry I know my food and this place is a rather popular place among this part of the city”. Rusonia spoke in a friendly tone.

Candidus gave a small smile, “Well, let’s recovery from the trip now and see what this city can afford today”.

Saturio simply nodded and the three left their room to relax while keeping a watch for a familiar face. Now It is just for how long till they find their quarry if, he is still in the city that is.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Sat Apr 14, 2018 3:03 pm

Wickliffe, Kentucky
Traders had noticed the arrival of a large collection of soldiers on the other side of the river, near Cairo. They didn't know who they were, but it likely wasn't good for them. Wickliffe's radio operator was sending word to Nashville, mentioning that the force had yet to be identified and requesting directions on what to do next. They were waiting for a few hours before a response was received. The Third Regiment was marching North to Hopkinsville and would be diverted to answer this apparent danger. It would be a few days before they arrived and, until then, Wickliffe was instructed to attempt to negotiate an agreement that would result with this force staying on its side of the River. Only 42 people lived in Wickliffe. If any attack came through, they wouldn't last long. Their only hope was that they could stall this threat long enough for the Army to arrive.

Nashville, Tennessee
"What do you mean, an invasion?"
President Underwood looked at General David Schaffer with raised eyebrows. The general had reported that a small settlement in Kentucky had spotted a bunch of armed men on the other side of the river and were shitting themselves. Not without cause, of course. It was a very small settlement, he was told. Not even 50 people lived there. Any group larger than 100 troops would take the town. Reports indicated a LOT more than 100 men. According to General Schaffer, the town was convinced that thousands of soldiers were bearing down on them.
"What I mean, Mr. President, is our war in Kentucky has escalated. We have, evidently, pissed off at least one neighbor. I have sent the Third Regiment to Bardwell. They should arrive in about three or four days, assuming no delays."
"And what if you are wrong?"
"Then nothing will happen."
"And if you are right?"
"If I'm right, and we are being invaded, God help us all."

by **The Empire of Tau** » Sat Apr 14, 2018 3:36 pm

The Lewd Post

((Collab Post between The Empire of Tau and Dragos Bee))

Santiago de Cuba, the main port of the Cult of Pleasure, was a surprisingly clean city for a den of sin, with waste being carefully collected and turned into compost for the plantations around the city due to artificial fertilizers being expensive in the post-apocalyptic age. Cultists of pleasure accompanied by Host of Ecstasy members patrolled the docks, making sure that they received their cut from the proceeds of trade. Ships from far and wide came to and fro to trade, with the prize good being Slaves, slaves to be subjected to the unique cruelties and indignities that the Cult of Pleasure can devise, before being put to work for the rest of their lives.

There was a party of Cultists on the docks, a diplomatic delegation sent from Guantanamo Bay/The Palace of Pleasure itself. These people, in silken and dyed robes and hoods that concealed all but their chins, would wait for a ship coming from a nation called ‘The Union’, a nation that frowned on slavery but which was still willing to trade with them. The Union had beans, guns, plastics and steel, along with paper and books, all goods that can be exchanged for the Cult’s sugar, iron ore, rum, manganese, dried tropical fruits, and coffee.

And so, the Cultist delegation would wait for the Union ship to appear…

From the horizon, a massive cargo with the flag of the Union inches ever close to the docks. Within time, the Union cargo ship docks into the port with items to be haved. All forms of goods are then poured into the Cultist’s dock, paper, books, beans, guns, steel, plastic and a Union penal battalion of 965 men known as the “Last Chancers,” a battalion of battle hardened soldiers of criminals, slavers, and the worst off. Coming down from the cargo ship is Union Diplomat Miller B. Jack.

For now, Miller approaches the cultist delegate, offering a hand to the woman

The woman in concealing robes would take Miller’s hand, her grip surprisingly strong and her hand big and well-muscled. At the same time, the Cult of Pleasure would load their goods onto the Union cargo ship. As this occurred in the background, the woman would begin to speak, “The Preacher of Pleasure is happy to see that you have put mutual profit ahead of ‘moral’ qualms; the Union’s friendship is a joy to see in these trying times.”

A smile from beneath her hood can be seen as she said it.

“Yes, yes. It’s good to have you on our side. I may ask for name?” Miller says, shaking the hand of the woman, which felt odd for some reason to him. While the two talked, another man came into the scene. “Ah, Marshall Shawn S. Pierce.” Miller shortly hugs Shawn. “Shawn is going to be your head of the Union military advisory here.” Miller explains as Shawn offers a hand to the cultist delegate.

The Cultist Delegate nodded. “Is he hostile to our...practices? Namely the enslavement of villages, the use of said slaves for ‘pleasure’, as well as various other actions that are regarded as beyond the pale? We’ve heard word that your people are Ethical Hedonists, while we are merely Hedonists. Not that we don’t respect your views; pleasure is still pleasure and pragmatism is a virtue.”

“We’re here to reform your military and form trade tides. We’re not here to do statecraft, ma'am.” Shawn explains with a creepy smile. “I’ll get into the details of looking at your military later in about two hours. I just need to get myself situated and familiar with the place first.” Shawn adds before heading off. “Well, is there anything else that you are concern about, ma’am?” Miller askes.

Another smile, “Nothing more, except that your ‘Penal Battalion’ will be sent to reinforce our ‘Northern Expedition’ soon; with them, we can take the city of Moa and its industrial facilities. Thank you for your time.”

“Of course, do what you will. Just ensure that you keep the men in check and supplied. If you need anything, I’ll be at the Embassy” Miller explains before heading off to the Union Embassy, which is still in construction.

And with that, the meeting was satisfactorily concluded.

by **Eventlandia2** » Sat Apr 14, 2018 4:47 pm

Republic of Tennessee

Men and Women of the Republic today were caught off guard by the sounds of trumpets and horns in the distance. Hours later, soldiers of the Kentucky Pact and cavalry of the Horsemen would crash into towns and cities of the Republic alike. This was the December Offensive, and the Pact would use the heavy snow and cold conditions to their advantage against their southern neighbors. Born and raised in Kentucky, they were well suited to the cold, while the more southern units of the Republic would not be so suited. 800 men and 400 cavalrymen making up the "Hopkins Brigade" would launch an offensive on Republican lines south of the city, attempting a breakthrough by using the mortars and machine guns given to them by the Mothmen. 500 Infantrymen and 300 Cavalrymen would make an assault on Bowling green from Smith Grove, while 400 Infantrymen and 100 cavalrymen would join them and attack Bowling Green from Hadely in the North, both of these forces making up the "Franklin" Brigade, named after their commander one General Franklin from Lexington. Another force, called the "Eastern Brigade", would make a push south from Williamsburg with 1,200 Infantrymen and 300 Cavalrymen along the I-75, assaulting every town along the way, while another Detachment from the Eastern Brigade made up of 800 Infantrymen and 100 Cavalrymen would assault Kingsport. In the far west, 400 Infantrymen would attempt to cross the Tennessee river on the I-24 bridge at Gilbertsville, near Calvert City. All of these men would be using using either automatic rifles or submachine guns from home or the heavy equipment gifted to them by the Mothmen.

New Roman Republic

In reaction to the deployment of Roman troops in Kentucky, 300 civilians have armed themselves and stormed the government hall in Quincy, a sizeable settlement on the northern part of the Mississippi. They killed the small local military garrison, and have taken the government hostage. They claim to not be rebels, instead only demand the end of the Roman war in Kentucky against Tennessee. They proclaim that they are simply anti-war, and refuse to see any more Romans die in foreign wars for land. They say that if Rome not pull out, the Mayor and members of the local government will be tried and executed.

Southeastern BoS

A well liked Paladin named James Harding has been sturring up trouble lately in Ekron. One of the towns under protection by the Brotherhood, he's recently begun preaching a ideology of using Brotherhood resources to HELP the locals, and to integrate them into a sort of larger Nationstate. To this end, he's begun distributing Brotherhood resources like Food, Water, and technology to the locals. This goes against Brotherhood doctrine, and many call for the man to be exiled and dishonored. However, a small sect say that the Brotherhood should follow Harding's example, and point to the large approval rating of the Brotherhood in Ekron.

The Union

The Union incursion into Kentucky did not go unnoticed. A band of warriors from the Horsemen, who had been raiding Tennessee form some of the forests along the border, has been attacking the Union. Towns like Boone, Lenoir and others have reported being attacked by groups of a couple hundred mounted tribals at a time, rushing in and attacking the small local garrisons and making off with the cities resources. This came to a head recently, when 100 Infantrymen and 800 Cavalrymen of both the Eastern Brigade and the Warband began and assault on Abingdon, seeking to retake the lands taken by the Union.

Gulf Commonwealth

Many eyebrows were raised in the capital building in Orlando when a group of men entered. Some were dressed in suits, others ragged settlers clothes and one even was dressed as a mercenary. When questioned, they revealed themselves to be representatives of the "Caribbean Company", a group of maritime traders that had been operating out of the Commonwealth for some time. Recently, however, they began to expand in a major way. In the Bahama's, on the Island on Andros, a colony was created on the former town of Nichollos Town. Now named "Petersberg", after company present James Peter, it had begun to thrive as a port city between Florida and the Caribbean islands. Trouble struck recently though, when a group of raiders called the "Bahamians" attacked the city. They're number aren't known, although its suspected to be in the mid hundreds range. Either way, the overwhelmed the cities garrison of Mercenaries, and the town was sacked, causing great losses to the Company and the settlement. The Caribbean Company has now approached the government with an offer to give over the Colony to the Commonwealth government in return for a Bailout to the now almost bankrupt company. This would require a bit of caps, and would require them to send a military garrison to protect the town, however the colonies situation as a key stopping point for Caribbean trade could prove quite lucrative.

National Commonwealth of Texas

In between the NCT's mainland and the newly acquired exclave, is a area of land called the "Trinity Republic". Named after the lake nearby and the lands faith, the "Republic" is actually a Theocratic Aristocratic Oligarchy, with an elected council made up of only the wealthiest of the population. They also adhere strictly to the moral teachings of Mormonism, after being converted by missonaries from the far off land of New Caanan. Seeing their obvious threat of invasion and also the whispers of the Legion on the horizon, the Trinity Republic has sent a delegate to the NCT's capital with an offer. The Republic would willfully allow itself to be annexed into the Commonwealth, in return for Autonomy and to preserve their way of Government. They request almost universal Autonomy, with their only concessions being the paying of taxes and the ability for the NCT to accept volunteers or conscript men from the Republic. While this would obviously be a huge boon to the Commonwealth, many are uncomfortable with the "Republics" religion and form of government.

San Antonio

After the death of the Nuka-Breakers earlier in the year, the town of Dilley was left barren. That was, until Caravaneer Martin Freeburg came in. He had been the man who had informed the despotate of the Raiders location, and now he saw a opportunity. He'd brought himself, his family, and his Caravan company to Dilley and set up a Company HQ and trading post there. After a few months, his location on the I-35 lead to the growth of the former Raider den into a prosperous settlement, even abosorbing the nearby towns of Pearsail and Moore into a loose trade confederation. So it was a surprise when a representative of Freeburg, the towns new name, came to offer annexation to Despot Starbuck. It became clear however, that the reason wasn't out of patriotism to San Antonio. A remnant of the Nuka-Breakers which had been out of camp during San Antonios assault had survived and made a new came in Woodward, south of Dilley. Lead by a former lieutenant named Harlow, the "New Nuka-Breakers" had begun raiding caravans on the I-35 and had just recently made an attempt to storm Freeburg, only to have been repulsed by local militia and mercs. So, now the Freeburg Confederation is requesting annexation by the Despotate to protect them from the New Nuka-breakers.

Chesapeake Confederation

Vienna was a old world town, that had prospered as a farming settlement after the war. Recently, a man name Gordon Hammer had begun buying up the local farms, putting them under his control, effectively creating a monopoly and forcing the locals to work to a specific quota of his, quota's which most of the time many farmers can't meet or can only meet by starving themselves. Many of the farmers have lodged complaints with the local administration, even going as far as to send letters of complaint to the local Republic government and even the King himself. ! However, Hammer's monopoly and quota's have increased productivity by a large margin, and taxes collected on sold goods in the area have nearly tripled over the last month or so.

Enclave

The situation with the Gun runners had only gotten worse. Recently, a group of Enclave soldiers apart of the investigation arrest four gun runners who had been attempting to buy two suits of Enclave Power Armor from a man. They hadn't managed to get the man, but one of the soldiers had gotten a brief look at the rank on the mans lapel, he couldn't quite remember it exactly, but he knew it was a Officer's rank at least below Brigadier General.

by **Tayner** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 9:03 am

Southeast Brotherhood of Steel
Fort Knox, Kentucky
Elder Elias Heart

A well liked Paladin named James Harding has been sturring up trouble lately in Ekron. One of the towns under protection by the Brotherhood, he's recently begun preaching a ideology of using Brotherhood resources to HELP the locals, and to integrate them into a sort of larger Nationstate. To this end, he's begun distributing Brotherhood resources like Food, Water, and technology to the locals. This goes against Brotherhood doctrine, and many call for the man to be exiled and dishonored. However, a small sect say that the Brotherhood should follow Harding's example, and point to the large approval rating of the Brotherhood in Ekron.

The news was surprising, to say the least. Elias had though all of those under his command were committed to the Codex, and would uphold the oath of preserving technology for the good of mankind. But Harding had gone against it, and others of the chapter were listening to his radical ideology. Others were calling for extreme measures, such as excommunication and having him stricken from the Codex. Elias couldn't allow division in his chapter, especially not now in it's integral moment of establishment. He had called upon senior officers to hear him speak in an old auditorium in Fort Knox.

"Brothers and sisters, I have received news of a breach of the Codex in Ekron, and this will not stand. While are permitted to aid outsiders, we are not to distribute technology under any circumstances to outsiders. Doing such can cause a chain of events that may have unforeseen repercussions. Up to this point, I have been pretty lenient on Brotherhood doctrine, allowing medical aid to be distributed to settlements, and military protection. I understand Paladin Harding's cause for expanding our aid, but there is a line we mustn't cross.

"This line is clearly drawn in the Codex; 'Shield yourself from those not bound to you by steel, for they are the blind. Aid them when you can, but lose not sight of yourself.'

"We will continue to supply surplus food and water to settlements in need, but as of now, all technology issued in Ekron is to be recalled. We have all taken an oath to preserve technology an to uphold the values and lessons of the Codex. Remember your duty to mankind, Brothers, your duty and commitment to preserve technology and prevent mankind from causing another catastrophe of the likes of the Great War. Dismissed."

Harding would be reassigned to a small hunting lodge they discovered in the mountains to the east. Three loyalist Knights, and a Scribe would accompany him, and another Palidin would be in command. Their mission would be to listen to radio communications and watch the Brotherhood's eastern flank. An official reprimand would be placed on Harding's record in the Codex, and he would likely be passed over for commands from now on.

However, elsewhere there was good news. Elizabethtown had been sacked, and the Brotherhood had placed a 'friendly' government in charge. The town was nearly devoid of technology, and their weapons and munitions were also looted. A garrison would be put in place, and Scribes and Knights would help doctors and carpenters rebuild.

Elias looked over intelligence and troop movements in the region, the looming threat of conflict with outsiders always present. Four large nations were looking to carve pieces of Kentucky for their own, while the locals had established their own military pact in its defense. The entire region was a powder keg, and Elias made the decision to help the Kentucky Pact, as the locals called it. They had outside support already, and in recent events the local military had proven themselves capable or large scale command and control. A Vertibird would take three Paladins, two Knights, and a Scribe as peaceful envoys to Louisville to see if they could work out some form of a mutually beneficial agreement.

In the meantime, Scribes had made headway setting up a munitions workshop, focusing on recycling used energy and microfusion cells, but still manufacturing ammunition for the conventional heavy weapons they deployed. Meanwhile Scribes were focused on setting up a workshop where they could produce energy weapons such as laser rifles or laser pistols. While Head Scribe Denali still wanted more resources allocated to opening the Bullion Depository, her goal would have to wait as she was needed to supervise the many projects going on.

by **Zelent** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 3:08 pm

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Houston
President Maddox was known for casually making his way around the inner neighborhoods of Houston, with perhaps only one security guard or a adviser on affairs accompanying him. It was here that the common people could approach him about matters they felt like expressing their opinion on. He was here, taking a tram car a few blocks down from the Presidency to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the Foreign Minister Richerd Zeso was wishing to speak with the President about the matter of the Trinity Republic, his political adviser, Adem Keroit had been meeting with the Governor of Montgomery, in Conroe today in regards to some infrastructure matter as the new railroad and road to Sabine began construction.

The National Police at the front entrance of the Ministry stood aside as the familiar, strident leader, former general, and most importantly President of the Commonwealth strode to the steps, he walked through the doors, acknowledging the secretary at the front desk politely, who immediately called up Zeso, who was already in discussion with Keroit. Stepping into the elevator down a short hall, Maddox pressed a number 8 on the touchpad, the doors shut and after a quick jolt the elevator was preforming normally, despite the creaking in the shaft, which was normal. After about a minute, the doors rolled open, and out stepped the president, meandering over to the push door that was the entrance to Zeso's office. He peered in, making direct eye-contact with Zeso's personal secretary, working at a terminal at the office entrance. She quickly disengaged the lock so that Maddox could walk on in.
"Go right ahead President, the minister is in his office."

The matter had been resolved, for now. Maddox wouldn't risk the precedent that would be set by allowing a extreme religious autonomous state within the commonwealth, but at the same time he must connect Sabine into the rest of the Commonwealth, while paving the way forward, protecting more and more of Texas in this lead up to what will be a grand war with the Legion. The Trinity Republic was told it could remain completely independent, but it would be protected anyhow. This was a topic that could be revisited at a later time, Maddox saw no benefit in setting the precedent that the Commonwealth would allow power to become decentralized in autonomous states. The matter of connecting Sabine to the rest of the Commonwealth could be solved, easily, by just going around the Trinity Republic. This meant a major, quick and semi-militarized initiative, which needed a justification and an even worse alternative. This was served to in the presence of a frighteningly quickly expanding legion in the west. This would be a massive propaganda drive.

Leaflets spread throughout Texas & Oklahoma:

This is a prime example of what Caesars Legion will do, when they come to your lands. Is this what you wish for your community, your families and yourselves? Do not doubt this as this settlement did. This is not some far off threat, this is a very real enemy of civilized society that is impressing it's self upon this land. The National Commonwealth of Texas is fully ready to stand alongside you, in defense of our shared way's of civilized life. It is so, we shall now choose between either fighting together and surviving, or allowing our crops, homes and lives to be destroyed. The National Commonwealth of Texas is your friend in this fight, so please, come with us.

Battalions 2 and 6, gathered at Huntsville
With the decision to round around the Trinity Republic in order to connect Sabine, two Infantry battalions were rallied at Huntsville, both from the 1st Brigade, this temporary Taskforce put under the command of General Kellon Berit, with the added support of some 340 ex-militia new NCT-recruits from the ETTF starting at Rusk, and a supplementing company of NCT police. On 12th December, this new Taskforce began operations. 2nd Battalion moved, annexing settlements along I-45 and bounding west around Hearne, and even making it to Hillsboro, and doing much-needed policing actions, as squads tracked down raider bands and enlisted town militias into either the National Police or the Army, or they stood down in face of this overwhelming, peacefully intentioned force. Meanwhile, 6th Battalion moved also along I-45 and to the East, rounding around Crockett up to Palestine where they met the congruently moving troops of the ETTF militia before maneuvering North to take Athens and Canton, at Athens they met the fiercest resistance, where a despotic dictator refused to hand over power, and sent his hired mercenaries forward, a blood bath killed 21 mercenaries and eight NCT troopers. Berit ordered a halt, as the battalions consolidated the gains, NCT law was brought into the land and the ETTF together with militia enlisted from the captured towns, whomever agreed to enlist atleast. These men numbered now total 412, who were brought south for their training, once trained these troops would joing with the 13th Reserve Infantry Depot Company, from New Iberia to form the 13th Infantry Battalion.

Maddox ordered 40,000 coppers spent in the next month alone on improving the new territory, repaving roads and establishing the institutions of state in this new NCT State of Crockett.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 4:01 pm

Bowling Green
Kentucky

Almost 4,000 soldiers were facing the attacking troops, with machine guns, grenades, mortars, and rifles. They had been given plenty of warning by the sounds of trumpets and the deep snow slowed the attackers enough that the soldiers were able to kill a substantial number of attacks. The attacks were both coming from the north, giving the defenders the ability to concentrate most of their forces there. Hundreds of men fired from craters created by the shelling in the assault, with several other troops digging fighting positions around the town. The cavalry were easy targets for the Machine Guns, with a number dropping before they were even 400 meters away. The infantry joined the cavalry in the bloodbath as the defenders fought on hard, making use of the older circumvelations and newer foxholes and shell craters.

South of Hopkinsville
Kentucky

The Second Regiment had been replaced by the Fourth a week ago, being sent south to Knoxville for retraining. The Fourth, with 3,582 men, was now holding the line against this new offensive, holding in foxholes. Machine guns, mortars, and rifles traded fire as the Republican Army fought back against the enemy. The Republican mortar and machine gun crews were well trained in the implementation of their weapons, enabling them to more effectively target the Pact troops. Radios at the squad and platoon level further aided the targeting of pact troops, enabling platoons, companies, battalions, even individual squads to coordinate their efforts against the attackers, allowing them to call in accurate mortar and machine gun fire when and where it was needed.

by **Elerian** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 9:24 pm

Port Canaveral, Clan Delegation

It wasn’t what he had hoped for, but something was better than nothing. Ahab knew little of military affairs, but he knew that it would be difficult to integrate these auxiliaries into the military. Perhaps as Marines, or apart of the Pathfinders could they find a place. It didn’t really matter, they would find a place for them somewhere. These terms wouldn’t be held in high regard by the people at large, but it was something for the politicians to persuade them that the Clan was under control.

Ahab stood and held out a hand to shake Bjorn’s. “I guess the deal is struck then. If there’s nothing further, i’ll see you back to your gig.”

* * *

Charleston, Virginia Regiment

The smartly dressed officer was the recently promoted Colonel Hart. He was set to join the Virginians in their trek northwest to Georgia. Hart returned the salute to the Virginian. Most of Hart’s men had already left Charleston for their hometown of Savannah, but a small garrison remained to train the Carolinians in their ways of war. The men would likely be there for sometime before a formal garrison was formed and sent to relieve them.

"Greetings. I am Colonel Harvey Durant, 4th Virginian Infantry Regiment, reporting for Deployment."

Hart shook the man’s hand and replied in stride, “the name is Colonel Hart, a pleasure to meet you Colonel Durant. I hope the voyage wasn’t too arduous.”

The following day the men would head north, but for now there was time to feast and make merry.

* * *

In Flanders Fields, Part 2

Early in the morning, the Pensacola Marcher Brigade laid into the small Orange Beach garrison at the Sunburst Library. Their choice of outpost was a poor one. With no view of the surrounding territory it wasn’t until the Brigade was already on them that they realized they were under attack. Heavily outnumbered and taken by surprised, it wasn’t foreseen that they would put up much resistance. A brief firefight ensued, but once the Orange Beach men realized the dire situation they were in, their commander chose to surrender rather than risk a slaughter. By noon, Perdido key was firmly in the grasp of Gulf forces, and with a majority of it’s meagre forces north assailing Mobile, the order was given to push forward to Orange Beach proper.

Doubtless the military command of Orange Beach could have seen the situation they were in by midday, but they were either unwilling or unable to withdraw their men from Mobile. By late in the afternoon of the same day, Sustad and his men had reached the intersection of I-10 and Highway 90. Word had been sent ahead to Mobile that their arrival was imminent, and with that in mind the Mobile defenders faked a retreat to draw the Orange Beach soldiers to a killing ground.

Upon Colonel Sustad’s arrival with half the Army Corps, the Orange Beach army was trapped between a rock and a hard place. Their situation was hopeless in the face of such odds. Their only hope was to try and force a retreat South towards Fairhope. But, unbeknownst to them, Fairhope was also under attack by Major Virgil’s half of the Army Corps.

A small number of impressed militiamen and a handful of soldiers guarding the howitzer were all that stood between Virgil and cutting off Orange Beach’s retreat. The situation for the interlopers was already dire, but soon they would be on their knees.

* * *

War Never Changes

The emissaries from Washington had been brought to Orlando with all haste. Once there, they had been detained in a local hotel until further notice. Their accomodations were pleasant, something that would be expected for men of their station. The view from their rooms overlooked Lake Apopka where locals occasionally came to fish for a meal. Finally, a handful of Presidential aides and a Constable came to retrieve the diplomats.

To the Congressional Hall they went. Their attendance was noted, but they weren’t invited to speak. They were there as guests. Guests to witness something the President had wanted them to see.

The dour Caldwell took the podium before the assembled Congressional Assembly.

“Gentlemen of the Commonwealth Congress, I have called this Congress into extraordinary session because there are very serious choices of policy to be made. And these choices must be made immediately. It would be neither right nor constitutionally permissible that I should assume the responsibility of making such a decision on behalf of our entire nation.”

Caldwell’s steely gaze fell upon the Washington delegation for the briefest of moments before his attention was once again on the assembly.

“It is with a profound sense of regret that I must make the solemn and perhaps tragic step which I do this day take to advise that the Congress declare the recent course of the Republic of Washington to be nothing less than war against the Government and people of the Gulf Commonwealth. I fully understand the grave responsibilities which it involves, but I will do with obedience what is my constitutional duty. Justice and righteousness begs us to formally accept the status of belligerent which has been thrust upon us, and that we take immediate steps not only to put the country in a thorough state of defense but also to utilize all its power and employ all its resources to bring the Government of Washington to terms to end the war.”

Caldwell addressed a crowd of hundreds of Congressmen, Officials, and an assortment of other peoples. Many of those gathered shared the same view, all nodding their heads as they muttered words beneath their breath as he carried on the speech.

“A steadfast concert for peace can never be maintained except by a partnership of like-minded nations. No jingoistic government could be trusted to keep faith within it or observe its concordat. It must be a league of nations, a partnership of opinion. Only truly free peoples can hold their destiny and their morality steady and prefer the interests of mankind over any selfish interest of their own.

It is a distressing business which I have undertaken in addressing you. There are likely to be many months of fiery trial and sacrifice ahead of us. It is a fearful thing to lead this great nation into war. It is not something that I would ask for lightly, but righteousness is more precious than peace, and we shall fight for the things which we have always carried nearest to our hearts. We will fight for the weak, for the voices of those who have none, for the rights and liberties of small nations, and to make the world itself free of tyrants at last. For such a task we must dedicate our lives and our fortunes, everything that we are and everything that we will be. We must, with pride, know that the day has come when the Commonwealth is ennobled to spend her blood and her might in defense of the principles that gave her birth. God willing, she will do what is right.”

As he finished, Caldwell looked the Washington delegation in the eyes, cold fury burning deep within. The assembly, or at least the men loyal or aligned to Caldwell’s party stood and clapped loudly for Caldwell as he left the podium. They had been swayed, if only just, to join the war on behalf of their northern neighbors.

If truth be told, the order for the Commonwealth Army’s advance on Atlanta had already been given late the previous evening. The military might of the Commonwealth had already been arrayed North of Macon, ready for what had been dubbed the Rush for Atlanta. The city was already practically surrounded on three sides by the Commonwealth, it would only take a little doing to complete the encirclement.

The Army Group Center, under the command of General Ryan Goodmour, was set to advance on Atlanta from Conyers, McDonough, and Fayetteville. At the head of the assault would be the 3rd Heavy Infantry Division, a veteran force of well equipped soldiers.

At roughly the same time the Army Group West, under Brigadier General Edgar Slater, would advance on Bremen. Taking Bremen would cut off access to Interstate 20, and allow another avenue of attack on Atlanta. The mounted Marcher Brigades were tasked with advancing at speed to Marietta and the surrounding area to cut off any ability to retreat. The remainder of their forces were to garrison Bremen and then advance on Atlanta proper.

This left Army Group East, under Brigadier General Magnus Jacobi, whose objective was similar in nature to Army Group West’s. Theirs was to take Duluth and then send their mounted units forward to Roswell to assist their sister units in encircling Atlanta. Then, just like with Army Group West, Jacobi is to advance his forces on Atlanta to assist in taking the city.

Farther South, the Reserve Army Corps that had been put on notice months earlier were finishing their preparations and making their way North to join the push. The war would now begin in earnest.

* * *

Black Tuesday ~~2: Electric Boogaloo~~

It was certainly a sight to see the once prestigious Caribbean Company stoop so low as to ask for a bailout from the Commonwealth. They would require many thousands of caps to keep them from caving. The price wouldn’t be all that difficult to pay, but the reclamation of Andros island would cost more. With their established colony gone, there wasn’t much to gain in exchange for bringing them back from bankruptcy. More would be required than just a piece of paper saying they owned an uninhabited strip of land. The Gulf Commonwealth would buy the rights to the largest of the company’s debt, and reduce the interest rates on them to near zero. Additionally, in exchange for a majority shareholder position in their company they would be given enough money to start again.

Specifically in Caibarien Cuba. Investing in an expedition to Cuba would allow the Commonwealth to tap into the Sugar business, which could be quite lucrative. That was of course relying on the expedition being successful.

by **Parcia** » Sun Apr 15, 2018 11:50 pm

The Clan

"Parachute infantry." Shawn repeated the word a few times out allowed. The idea of dropping men out of the back of an airplane seemed...insane. Yet he couldn't help but feel captivated by the historical study Tera had down in her spare time of old pre-war American military Airborne Units. He payed special attention, as did she when reading, of the American Airborne's battles in the "Second world war" through France, The Netherlands, and Germany. These were words with old meanings, words used to describe the countries of old, the countries of the Motherland that the first settlers of the Keys had come from.

His mind was brought back by the girl looking him in the face. "We could do this, you know, we could throw 30 men in the back of the greyhound, even with an estimated two thousand pounds of carrying capacity because of the shit engines, we could still drop a...Platoons, company's worth of men any were with in 600 miles of the base here in the islands."

He thought of it over. "We would need to get the rest of the simulators operational to train them, and you and your engineers would need to get the greyhound flying securely, I know the engines are both working properly, but we need to be sure before we start dropping men out of it."

He nodded his head, he knew this was one of her brain storming moments. "SO what are we calling this plane?" This seemed to stop her in her tracks

"Im not sure..."

by **Dragos Bee** » Mon Apr 16, 2018 5:56 pm

The Cult of Pleasure

The city of Moa, Cuba, had withstood the first few raids by the Cult of Pleasure, but with the arrival of the 'mercenaries' from The Union, its days were numbered. Now assailed by a full army of 700 (280 Cultists and 430 Union Penal 'mercenaries'), all well-armed with the best weapons the Cult can produce, the municipality was taken by storm, with the only special action being the sending of 'special forces' from the Precision of Perfection to sieze the main factories and the city hall. Casualties were higher than expected, being 45 dead and 30 wounded, but nothing that couldn't be easily replenished from the city's prisons; the Cultists of Pleasure made it clear that rapists, thieves, and murderers were welcome in the Host of Esctasy.

After the fall of the last defenders came the sack of the city, where the residential districts were deliberately terrorized into submission as the population was rounded up and herded into the city square. All weapons and armor were removed, as well as anything of value, before the formal process of enslavement began. This didn't just consist of putting slave collars on the locals, but also deciding which of them would be permitted the barest minimum of protective gear; the Cult of Pleasure preferred its slaves to wear as little as possible or even nothing at all. Aside from the obvious desire to dehumanize and humiliate, there was a pragmatic reason for this; with as little to wear as possible, the slaves would have less ways of concealing weapons or protecting themselves, and thus rebelling...

With the occupation of Moa, the Cult of Pleasure knew they'd have made a large number of enemies.

by **Dragos Bee** » Mon Apr 16, 2018 7:27 pm

((Collab Post between Dragos Bee and Holy Lykos.))

Nathaniel Green and his Companions

Nathaniel had been in Aztlan territory for a month or so now, learning their ways and customs and the intricacies of their political system. A mix of primitive and modern that managed to out-democratize his native NCR, Nathaniel had grown to admire the Aztlan people in the short time he had been with them, but now was the time to speak to their elected representatives, to speak to them about the Legion. He had learned to begin the groundwork almost from the beginning of his stay, spreading the true stories about the Legion's atrocities all throughout Aztlan territory. And now, they were hopefully receptive.

Waiting for the next meeting of the main body of Aztlan's people, Nathaniel would ask to speak at the next opportunity, his words were: "People of Aztlan, may this foriegner finally speak?"

The body that Nathaniel had been allowed to sit in on more than once by now, the Tlahtoani's Assembly, was not all that large. A few dozen men and women, of all stripes and outfits. A few had already spoken with the diplomat in person, due to the natural curiosity many would feel meeting someone from half a continent away. As such, when Nathaniel had decided to contribute to a session of the Assembly, the vote to allow him was quick.

Quetzachi, acting as head of the Assembly in Hueytlahtoani Xiuhcoatl's absence, spoke from the head of the table. Instead of some grand hall, the Aztlaners were still using the Courthouse of Laredo, save with the main courtroom refurbished in their styles. An odd sight, like most in their territory a clash of old and new. Nahuan and Texan styles clashing in one building, yet comfortable in juxtoposition.

"Nathaniel, you have proven the sincerity of your messages plenty. Feel free to give your speech in front of our Speakers and Elders. It is the least we can do to allow you to speak, even if we cannot guarentee immediate action or response."

Nathaniel looked around the body and said his words, hoping for a legitimate argument to come out from his lips. "The army of tyranny and injustice that calls itself Caesar's Legion...it stands in your way. It may not directly bar your path to the hallowed lands of Oklahoma yet, but its raiders and slavers range far and wide, slaugthering, raping, and plundering as they go. They are in every way opposed to your ideals and your goals, even more than San Antonio and the New Texan Commonwealth, who despite thier methods and ways, still maintain a memory of decency.

"When your migration starts, they will come after you and yours', seeking to conquer, destroy, and enslave. But I will not stop you from going north; I will not assume cowardice from the bravest and happiest people I have ever met." A frown. "But I will ask this, that when you come north and the Legion comes south, that you accept an alliance with the armies of San Antonio and the New Texan Commonwealth, for only in leauge can the Legion be faced and defeated."

The hall was quiet, with Elders(a bit of an odd term, given some looked even in their late 20's and 30's) murmuring between one another and shuffling. The first one to speak was pale, with sharp features. He was likely a representative of one of the Tejano or Texan groups.

"And what if we help and find ourselves alone fighting such monsters? Many of our warriors are simple ranchers and farmers who are only called for emergencies. We all have families and much at risk. The states of Texas let the Rio Grande region become infested with bandits and despots until Aztlan arrived. Why should we trust them?" A few of the other Texans and Tejano representatives nodded or gave words of encouragement, but waited for Nathaniel's response to a question he'd likely heard echoed in public, with the general distrust of the other Texan factions.

The reply was easy, "Because if they give into short-sightedness and leave you at your time of need, the Legion will not spare them. If they refuse to stand with you together, they will fall alone. When morality fails, self-interest takes over. And it will not be in their interest to let you fall.

A frown. "The Legion number 15,000 men, perhaps more, armed with guns and bombs as well as melee weapons. They hold all the land between Amarilllo and Lubbock, and thier heartland - a heartland that I spent time in - has several times that number in men. At best, San Antonio and the NCT combined can raise...12,000 people, and only if they combine the entriety of their armies. That means that one loss and their reigns are ended. And your own armies are in a similar dillemma: your numbers grow, but training and armament are haphazard. One decisive battle will be fatal as well.

Nathaniel found himself in his element again, "And so basic logic says that despite whatever treachery might occur after the decisive battle, no one can stand against Caesar's Legion alone, not without taking insane risks. Either all three of us stand together or all three of us fall alone."

He then gave a deep bow to conclude his piece.

More murmuring and muttering, with a few individuals even beginning spirited debate between them. No new questions arose. Quetzachi seemed to only let the debates go on, signalling Nathaniel to sit himself down and wait. Languages shifted and changed like wind, from Nathaniel's familiar english to the downright alien dialects of Nahuatl.

The man who originally questioned Nathaniel, in the snippets Nathaniel would actually be able to understand, seemed to be one of the Californian's biggest supporters in the room. Quetzachi would inform him of his name, Aníbal Òscar, as the two waited. Anibal seemed to be winning people over to his side with passion and enthusiasm, and as suddenly as the cacophanous debate began the room was quiet again.

Then Quetzachi spoke calmly, his demenor telling Nathaniel this was simply normal procedure for his people. "So. I feel we can vote for this. Who feels we should throw in our lot against the Legion."

The decision was obvious. A yes from the people assembled, save a few who's voiced concerns were mostly around worry they, even with the help of others, could face such a foe. Concerns for their people's readiness, and the status of our armnament.

The temporary First Speaker spoke again, "Nathaniel, as part of our process the representatives will need to ensure their people support such an action for certain, but you will have our support. Especially if you could secure us better supplies of weapons and ammunitions. You will also be welcome among us for Asylum whenever you need it. You did mention some sort of Legion secret agents to me earlier, after all, didn't you?"

Nathaniel bowed deeply, "I will do everything I can - including dip into my own funds - to make sure that your people are as well-armed as they can be. And yes, the Legion would have sent spies after me by now; thank you for offering me your hospitality and protection from them." A sigh. "I do hope I am not sending your people to their deaths, though; I still believe what I have said, but that does not drive away all fear."

"Our people had much to lose crossing Aridomerica already. With just as hostile and barbarous enemies behind us. Making the land safe for those who wish to live in their own way is part of what our Federation has been formed for.

"It would be good for you to meet with the leader of the Jaguars, though. To inform him about ways of finding out these spies and protecting our people."

With the turning of Quetzachi towards the other topics, people began to drift from the room. The session's other business had already been concluded before Nathaniel's turn, and they all had people to return to and seek support for the decisions. The Californian would likely be kept busy informing the Federation's leaders, but was free to leave their lands at his own leisure.

And with that, things were settled.

by **Skarten** » Tue Apr 17, 2018 3:05 pm

The Tsar had been occupied for the last months. He had one clear goal in mind- turn the Grand Tsardom into a nation. His power was large, and the lands under his influence were vast.But that was of no use if he was but a raider nation, living from plundering settlements and attacking caravans.
But if he was to ever turn this warband into an functional nation, he needed to get settlements that existed in his influence under his banner.
How he would do that, homewever, was the question.It woudn't be hard to squeeze taxes from the settlements for a continued income (That wasn't such a rare event in the Tsardom), but he knew that this wasn't enough. He needed to get on the good side of settlements, he needed people to support a government.
It was already night. Ludoslav decided it was better to sleep. He layed on his bed, and closed his eyes.
He would see the Tsardom Rise, or die trying.

by **Dragos Bee** » Wed Apr 18, 2018 4:22 pm

The Regulators

The treacherous raid by the Iron Clan on West Point had been immensely destructive, with the facilities barely surviving the assault. Suspicions were rife as to whether Virginia was complicit in allowing the raiders through, as West point was a key strategic point in any defense against the Virginian Navy. Nevertheless, the raid was used to gain sympathy for the Regulators, sympathy that, combined with fear of the Iron Clan and the Virginians, resulted in extra 'contributions' from the settlements under the 'Regulator Umbrella'. Volunteers were also flowing in, replenishing the casualties from the Iron Clan raid. Not merely that, but Richmond's seaward defenses were being built up with earthworks and cannons.

When Virginia comes, they will be ready.

Fallout: South the Mason [IC Thread]

Part 2 - Chapter 5

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