(IC|Open|MT)Terrorist Group in the Southeastern Territories

[Furbish Islands]

Boo-Kye wrote everything down. He noted that the URA are acting like it is a large scale civil war and that the Furbish and SETRA forces are very even. But he kept the thoughts to himself, knowing that the URA soldiers may feel unwelcome, and not send any support at best, or help SETRA instead. The Furbish military could've easily sent enough marines to end the rebellion quickly, but foreign nations are backing SETRA, and sending that many troops is suicidal. But he wanted to be cautious. Furby Island and the URA are fighting a proxy-war in Bakhara, and by allowing URA supplies in a strategically important military base is the best way to smuggle and detonate bombs. And maybe they can send troops to capture the islands, instead of helping the Furbish like they say they are.

Doo-Nee listened carefully to everything so far, and took some mental notes. He could see fighting from landing strip C's control tower. He saw the outskirts of Matuata from there, and he wanted the fighting to end quickly. He knew that selling or handing out unauthorized foreign weapons in Furby Island is illegal, but he wanted to allow the troops to help fight and finish the war as quickly as possible.

Boo-Kye: I appreciate the fact that you want to help us. Unfortunately, there is a law that prohibits the selling or distribution of any weapons that aren't authorized by the government. But that does not include foreign armies fighting in the country. Other then that, it's all fine. Although I advise against AFV's, since these islands are mostly jungle.

Shallow nodded, offering a bit more respect to the Furbish general than he had to the lieutenant. "I understand, General. The URA has very similar laws with firearms, actually. Well, either way, they'll be here. If you can't use them, then we can always have some extra weaponry for our ground units. Or, well, you know how a battlefield is, sometimes regulations are forgotten in the heat of war and crates of weaponry are used before they can be properly vetted," Shallow shrugged and offered a knowing grin. "I get paid to assist either way. Don't worry about the AFV's. Most of what we're bringing are Humvees and Growlers which we can outfit as light support vehicles. The Vulcan SPAAGs will be heavy and I'd count them as AFVs, though. I'd say best we can do with those is keep them here around the base as support, or if there's any heavvy weight-sustaining roads between here and Matuata the city, I'd say we can use them to help in the siege." Homer shrugged once again. "Anyways, thank you for your time, General. The rest of my task force will be here in a few days, and from there, we'll start doing our thing."

You're welcome, asshole, Homer thought to himself as he glanced back at the Lieutenant to leave the room. He knew he was here under orders to keep the civilians safe. That was his only command. The assumption was he should be helping the government keep them safe, but if these Furbish were all dicks like this lieutenant here, then Homer wondered how accommodating SETRA was. Maybe they'd be more appreciative of assistance.

As the URA soldiers left the room, escorted by the Furbish, Doo-Nee stayed in the room for a while, and he told the troops to meet back at the air traffic control tower.

Doo-Nee: Sir, please consider their help. We may not like them, and they may not like us, but that's some more troops helping us.

Boo-Kye: I fell uneasy about them. If you don't already know, we are fighting a proxy-war against them in Bakhara. They may use this as an opportunity to take over part of the land so we will drop out of the war.

Doo-Nee: We're in our homeland, and they're not used to our climate. Also, we can have a guerilla war with them if they take over. They'll come to their senses and withdraw.

Boo-Kye: That's not the problem. They can blow up Matuata Island Base, which is a strategically important location.

Doo-Nee: Would they really want to risk losing their ships, and possibly part of this country falling to Communism, all for a chance of us withdrawing from Bakhara?

Boo-Kye: You have a point, but their ships can turn back at any moment for all we know, and we will still defeat SETRA. That may get delayed by a month at worst. But it will have bad effects on us.

Doo-Nee: But by refusing them we risk them helping SETRA.

Boo-Kye: You have a point. Now go back to air traffic control before more URA planes arrive, or another country decides to land.

Doo-Nee: Landing strip F exists, and it is empty.

[Kuzag]

4 HOURS AFTER BEACH LANDING
KANTON
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Henry continued marching on, along with the remaining of what was left of his battalion, which was reduced from 600 troops to 350. The XM-3 tank that had been escorting them had finally struck out. He recalled it getting initially tracked, then pepper sprayed with machine gun fire as to not let the crew get out. Then, another rpg had bit into the tanks side, which was vulnerable to the RPG's terrifying warhead. The tank began to smoke up, then a third RPG came in and sealed the deal, finishing off the tank just before the machine gun nest received a well placed grenade. Now they only had the final AAV7, which everyone made sure to keep a good distance from, as they had learnt the vehicles tended to attract gun fire. In fact, when Henry looked at the faces of the deceased enemies, some seemed to be of different nationality. Some carrying an insignia of a golden bird with a red backdrop. In fact he could've sworn one of them had sent the shot that killed Panetta.

As they had pushed, they collected prisoners, which they unarmed and strapped them on top of the AAV7 as to instill fear into the SETRA troops. One was one of those Golden Eagles, as the troops referred to them as. He had ran out of ammunition and charged at them with a knife, failing in the process and was tied to a tree. He was speaking in some type of foreign language, pleading, crying. Henry didn't seem to care. He answered the cries with punches and kicks, until the man stopped his pleading and went silent.

Henry continued marching, blood trickling down his face from Panetta, dirt in his eyes, and sweat in his palms. He was scared. They all were. Recent calls for the other half of the 10,000 strong army group were on their way, and wouldn't reach their targets until at least an hour, so until then, they were ordered to continue marching into the forest. And so they did.

An all to familiar streak slammed into the tree next to him, shooting tree bits into the air, bursting into his flack jacket and the AAV7 behind him. Almost like routine the entire battalion hit the deck, as more fire came from the dense jungle. The AAV7's heat rounds lit up the dark jungle as trees exploded and collapsed, tracers flying back and forth. And yet again, like clockwork, the mortars began hitting around them, throwing dirt around them, and throwing shrapnel into some of the unlucky troops. One of the commanders radioed into the 10 F-16s flying above them. "Drop the god damned Napalm at the following cords...". One pilot called out "That's fairly close to your cur-"

"Drop them!"

A loud squeal of the Napalm bombs was heard throughout the jungle just before they hit their targets, setting the previously cold jungle into flames and heat. A scream was yelled out as one of the soldiers began charging into the heat, more and more began running into the heat, charging at the discombobulated SETRA troops, firing off shots, stabs and screams.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIP JESSIE

Mortars continuously pummeled the beach head as the Ship returned with the other half of the much needed reinforcements. 5,000 more troops, 100 T99 tanks, 50 ICVs and 20 VX-1 Attack helicopters all road inside the three Ships, awaiting the order to move out. According to the dispatches they got, the enemy had sophisticated Anti-Tank weapons, and had managed to destroy the Main XM-3s. They estimated casualties to now be somewhere in the thousands, with 40 vehicles having been knocked out. Now to the officers inside the boats, it wasn't a matter of winning the island. It was a matter of ending the conflict before the body count racks up to a ridiculous point.

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

A soldier inspected the battlefield in front of him with his binoculars, he saw rising smoke and also fires where enemy vehicles were destroyed, as well as vehicles and men that were advancing towards his position. It was the expected scene after a relentless attack with missile weaponry. He reported through his radio transceiver back to other parts of the battalion, first describing the hostiles that were still active and moving, as well as recommendations on what weaponry and what tactics to engage them with, followed by a somewhat exaggerated report of enemy casualties serving to boost morale of the remaining troops.

Unfortunately, either the Kuzagis seemed to have indulged too much in the game of blowing up armoured vehicles, or the enemy was pushing forward faster than expected, one of the two diversion positions found the Vymarian tanks right before them by the time they could react. There was little time to retreat, but the soldiers did the best they could to make sure none of their heavy weapons were left behind, either trying to transport away as many of them as possible or destroying them with explosives. After this, the majority of the troops attempted to withdraw, while a small part of the soldiers braved the enemy with their assault rifles and hand grenades, and once that didn't turn out too well they retreated too.

The collapse of this position was a serious blow and unexpected thwart of the Kuzagi plan. Meanwhile, reconnaissance reported that an enemy troop ship was approaching the island, definitely with reinforcements, and this no doubt added fuel to the fire. The Kuzagi commanders decided that it was now necessary to assault the enemy with the armoured company. They transmitted orders to that unit instructing it to flank the Vymarians, while also communicated with SETRA troops requesting that they attack in conjunction as well. However, just as the order was sent, the other diversion position was struck with incendiary munitions. The commanders had become quite worried with these drastic setbacks.

The troops that were unlucky enough to be bombed with napalm also collapsed quickly and were forced to withdraw from their position. With this, the Kuzagi line was pulled back heavily. Fortunately however the soldiers that were able to escape the fate of being burnt to death or being gunned down by the enemy were able to set up positions shortly after, and resume their work. Meanwhile, the anti-air sections that survived began engaging the F-16s with their Igla anti-air missiles immediately, alongside BRDMs and BTRs equipped with Strela-1 and other vehicle-mounted air defence systems in the rear. This exposed the armoured troops, but they had already begun their move.

Kuzagi armoured vehicles rolled out into the battle theatre, carrying infantrymen in and on them. As the jungle was not the best place for vehicles to be in, the tactic was to have infantry dismount from their APCs once they were in an engagement while the vehicles tried to provide fire support wherever and whenever they could. The BTRs fired their 30mm guns at light enemy vehicles and infantry concentrations, while the BRDM-2s used their Konkurs anti-tank missiles against heavier vehicles, though with so few of enemy armor left they barely got a chance to use their main armaments. The infantrymen noticed that an enemy amphibious assault vehicle was literally clad in humans, wary of this and concerned that they may harm those hostages should they use rockets, they attempt to disable it by attacking its tracks instead. Bullets, shells, grenades and rockets were all hurled at the Vymarian soldiers from their flanks.

The regrouped forces counted their numbers and had tallied 55 men lost in action, whether killed, captured or missing, out of 400 soldiers in total, while another 52 were injured. The number was increasing.

[Greater Carloso]

Imperial Palace, Bussa, Yughana

---

The sweltering heat of a rising sun beat down on Bussa, the capital city of the Yughanan Empire, a mysterious country that, according to one estimate, was home to some 157 million people. Of course, it was extremely hard to determine how many people actually lived in this country; no census had been taken since the nation's independence in the 1950s from its British overlords, and only a handful of foreigners had ever been allowed set foot Yughana. Internationally, the country was more renowned for its incredible levels of hyperinflation, a product of disastrous monetary policies by the central government, dictated by Emperor Obasee IV. Outside the few urban centres dotted along the coast, there was a wild, untamed country, shrouded in superstition. Most of the country practises a unique form of fetishist idol-worship, a tradition which persists despite past attempts by Anglican missionaries to convert the natives. Rumours from the rural areas told of 'witch camps' camps and 'homo camps' set up my local authorities to detain women and homosexuals accused of practising dark magic. However, much like everything else in this suspicious and unchartered country, it was difficult to tell fact from fiction. Of the few foreign people who managed to enter Yughana, one Carlosian journalist described the country, saying "It is a dark nation hiding terrible secrets. Cannibalism and famine are rampant in the rural areas, homosexuals and women are locked in camps for practising what the locals refer to as 'igbu' or 'dark magic'. Albinos are hunted and dismembered for the purpose of traditional medicine. Warlords and armed gangs rule large swathes of land and vicious tribes emerge from the jungles at night to kidnap farmers and their families. The Emperor of Yughana seems to care little for his people's situation."

Of course, any dissent from citizens against the Emperor meant death. The Imperial Yughanan Army was well known for its extrajudicial killings; not that there was a judicial system anyway, and the hopelessly obsoleted equipment it used meant it was locked in a constant stalemate when fighting the various insurgent groups. Despite this, the Yughanan military was vast in size, with a paper strength of twenty million, though this was likely much lower due to mass desertions and the logistical strains of operating such a colossal force. This central policy of having such a large army was exemplified in the national motto, "Empire, leader, die for him", which was interpreted by many as a calling to lay down one's life to protect the Emperor, whatever the situation. Indeed, the Emperor himself was worshipped as a living god by adherents to the folk religion that the overwhelming majority of the population adhered to. According to the oral tradition, it was the Emperor who was a direct descendant of the celestial deity, from which all life originated.

Bussa was an exception to all of this. Considered by many to be an ivory tower, a metropolis that was designed to accommodate only the Emperor's family and closest friends, it was an impressive sight with large skyscrapers and office blocks dominating the skyline. Yughanans went about their daily business, while a functioning city authority ran public services efficiently and effectively. Like a scene straight out of the 1950s, many Morris Minors and Citroën 2CVs still roamed the streets of Bussa, a product of the nation's policy of total isolation from the outside world. The people who lived in this city were lucky to have the luxury of owning a car, since most of the country didn't even have dirt tracks to make owning one worthwhile, let along affordable. In contrast to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Bussa and some of the smaller cities, the rest of the country had more in common with the Late Middle Ages than any semblance of modernity.

At the centre of the city, there was the crown jewel of the Yughanan Empire, the Imperial Palace, made of flawless Portland stone imported from the United Kingdom and home to Emperor Obasee IV. The Emperor was a member of the ancient Ibezimako dynasty, an imperial family that had ruled the lands of Yughana since at least 1000 BC. With the exception of the period of British rule from 1824 to 1957, the Ibezimako dynasty's rule over Yughana was uninterrupted. Obasee took pride in his heritage as a member of this ancient clan. If he wasn't relaxing with his harem of beautiful Yughanan women, he could be found in his office tending to his many duties as sovereign of the realm. As Emperor, his power is derived directly from the celestial deity and therefore is immune to prosecution or fault. As well as this, he also exercises total power and his decisions were final.

Obasee was now sat in his administrative office, joined with a host of military commanders from all the branches of the military, "My loyal generals, admirals and air force commanders. As you all know, under the Mandate of Bwallah we are obligated to expand the Yughanan realm until it encompasses are planes of existence, both physical and metaphysical. By my wise analysis, I have identified a prime target that will serve to satisfy the conditions of our mandate." the military officers with the Emperor made sure to pay close attention to his words, for any misstep could result in their swift death. The Emperor rolled out a large map on his desk, the words 'FURBISH ISLANDS' written in a large, black, Time New Roman font in the top-right corner. "My loyal military officers, the Furbish Islands are a divided nation. In the south, a communist faction calling themselves 'SETRA' has captured many islands. Many thousands have been killed in the war, and I believe the only solution to end this bloodshed is by annexing it into Yughana. I have picked this island here," the Emperor proceeded to point at a small, insignificant island at the bottom of the map that was controlled by SETRA, "to be the staging point for our invasion of the Furbish Islands. I am leaving it up to you, my friends, to organise a task force to take this island and establish it as our central base of operations in the area. What do you think?"

The military officers across from Obasee knew by now that they would have to be cautious and calculating in what they said next, "You are very correct, Your Majesty. You possess incredible insight and have superbly identified how to exploit this situation. Your intellect matches, and could maybe even surpass, the military expertise of the great Mr Idi Amin of Uganda." The Emperor was pleased to hear this from the young military officer, "Haha, your words are true. However, I would never hold myself up to the legacy of His Excellency, President for Life, Field Marshal Al Hadji Doctor Idi Amin Dada." The military generals laughed collectively, the young officer chiming in once more, "Ah yes, they called Idi Amin the 'Black Hitler' of Africa. Such a great compliment." The Emperor nodded, "Very true. I like you, young man. We both share the same admiration for great men. As a reward, I want you promoted to a higher position in the Imperial Yughanan Army." The young officer was taken back by this, "Your Majesty, I am shocked by how much kindness you express. You are truly a great and noble leader. Emperor Obasee chuckled, "Of course I am. Yughana is such a wealthy country now, printing more money than ever before, and we have improved the lot of our people considerably. I suspect the Furbish Islands will be filled with loot for our people." With that, the military officers bowed and left Emperor Obasee's office. The plan had been set in motion.

Obike Naval Base, Bussa, Yughana

---

Formerly a centre for colonial trade, the huge natural harbour at Obike was now home to the largest base for the Imperial Yughanan Navy. Security was tight around the base, tall concrete walls and barbed wire protecting the facility on three sides. Armed guards policed the surrounding area in watchtowers, scanning the landscape with their binoculars. The base was exceptionally busy today, with a steady stream of trucks carrying soldiers moving through the gates. Vehicles carrying military equipment and building materials irregularly made their way inside as well. Leaky warships were strewn all across the base, including the pride of the force, the modified Andrea Doria-class helicopter cruiser IYN Ngozi. This relic from the 1950s presented the Yughanan Empire's best bet at conventional poor projection, equipped with relatively capable weaponry, including a twin-arm launcher for Masurca surface-to-air missiles. Along with the various warships, a handful of Jideofor-class attack submarines, roughly based on the French Daphné-class attack submarines, peaked above the surface of the water, currently vacant and waiting to commence routine patrols up and down the Yughanan coast.

The Yughanan coastline was well known as a haven for pirates, who attacked vulnerable cargo ships that travelled along the international shipping lane nearby. The Yughanan government was suspected to be actively funding and trading with these pirates, explaining the presence of several modern New Panamax and ultra large container ships in the Imperial Yughanan Navy's inventory. Most of these vessels had been converted to take on more specialised roles, including serving as landing ships, replenishment oilers and supply ships. Others were broken apart and sold for scrap, while their cargo was distributed on the black market, to the benefit of the Yughanan government. Several of these cargo ships repurposed by the were now docked at Obike Naval Base. These behemoths were being prepared for the mission ahead.

Commanding officer of the IYN Ngozi, and one of the people higher up in the Imperial Yughanan Navy ranks, Admiral Uwaezuoke Akachi, was spending his time in the base canteen, waiting for the call to get aboard his ship and sail forth to expand the Yughanan Empire beyond the seas. He was accompanied by Captain Okorie Ifeatu of the IYN Yobanna, one of the Explorer-class container ships, who was helping himself to blend of Yughanan blend coffee, one of the few exotic luxury items the country produced. "The Emperor is mad. Does he actually think that this is going to succeed?" Akachi opened, knowing full well the absence of the Yughanan military, "We are the lucky ones Okorie. What about the people in the country? Have you not heard the tales? Cannibals, death camps, famine." Okorie knew full well himself the reality in his country, the bubble in Bussa. This recent decision by the Emperor was pushing him to the breaking point, "Yughana is the shithole of shitholes. Our grand military is beyond obsolete, a colossal waste of good men. We will be wiped clean off the map when people discover our intentions in the Furbish Islands. What is the point of twenty million men when you can't even arm a fifth of them? Have you seen the Chukwubuikem Regiment? They are armed with sticks and spears! We are a joke."

The feeling amongst the Admiralty is that they were being forced to sanction a suicide mission to the Furbish Islands. They were under no illusion that their military was a pathetic force, and that it was a miracle that they had the capacity to execute such an operation. There were dangerous temptations in the IYN to attempt a coup against the Emperor and end his rule of tyranny over the Yughanan people, but none wanted to be responsible for the administration of this huge and mostly unchartered land. On top of that, it was well known that any destabilisation of the country would turn all of Yughana into a slaughterhouse as ethnic tensions flared. The future of Yughana indeed looked bleaker as days passed and reports of famine and cannibalism in the countryside became worse and worse. Rumours were that the Emperor himself had contracted foreign private military contractors to guard witch camps, homo camps and assist the military in fighting warlords in the rural areas. The greatest fears amongst the Admiralty now where that these contractors would defend the monarchy in the scenario of a coup being attempted, something everyone knew couldn't be countered.

"Unfortunately, now is not the time for action against the regime." Akachi sighed, "Hopefully, that time will be soon. In the meantime, we do as we are told and tow the line, for the sake of our families." Okorie nodded solemnly, finishing with his coffee, "Indeed. For the sake of our families."

Early in the morning of the next day, the midget submarine mothership IYN Amazu departed with its complement of six midget submarines and special operations teams, bound for initial reconnaissance operations around the Southern Furbish Islands. The hulking giant sailed off into the horizon, joining the international shipping lane and blending in with its commercial cousins.

Order of Battle

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• 3rd Submarine Assault Squadron
  
  • 1 × modified Explorer-class mothership
    
    • 1 x Blowpipe twin-arm launcher
    • 2 x FN MAG general-purpose machine guns
  • 6 × modified Sang-O-class midget submarines

• Special Operations Group Ifeatu
  
  • A Team
    
    • Squad leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)
    • Team leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)
  • B Team
    
    • Squad leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)
    • Team leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)
  • C Team (reserve)
    
    • Squad leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)
    • Team leader (SIG SG 510 battle rifle)
    • Grenadier (SIG SG 510 with Gewehrgranaten 58 rifle grenade launcher)
    • Light machine gunner (Heckler & Koch G3 HK21A1 light machine gun)
    • Designated marksman (Heckler & Koch G3 G3 designated marksman rifle)

[Estude]

One of the 5 Corvettes are caught on the side, as the shells rip into its hull, breaking it into two as spews fire from within its ammo carriages. Naval Commander Jerry Brock stares at the flaming VN Pueblo "How did we allow them to get in close enough to fire on us!? We need to pull back, we outrange them, and can outrun them! Get the Destroyers and have them ram the battleships, get the corvettes and pull them back to out range these devils!". Then, the Three remaining Destroyers charged full steam ahead at the battleships, firing all missiles, including firing the small 25mm cannon in the front of the ship.

It crashes into the battleship sending people falling off the edge of the boat. Roman watches in horror. He calls out "More kamikaze drones! Get those corvettes back in there! Bring 3 destroyers too!" He radios to the battleships being attacked "Board the destroyers! Get your sabers out!". The crew members in the battleships hear the message and immediately begin boarding the destroyers. As soon as they're on the ship they take out their sabers and engage crew members of the destroyers. Kamikaze drones crash in to the corvettes

The Corvettes shudder underneath the immense destructive force brought upon by the mass swarm of drones. They begin attempting to fire back at the drones to stop them from crashing into the ship. The officers call back to Lifulau as they quiver in their boots, watching their ships be pummeled hard by the Drones. "We need air support! We're getting ripped apart by enemy drones!".

The men inside the destroyers ready their assault rifles as they begin gunning down any soldier that boards the ship. Watching the mass of men with swords jumping from their battleship onto the destroyers. The 3rd destroyer, which had completely missed the first and second battleships was now charging at the one currently firing on the airfield. It would not stop, its men prepared to immediately board the battleship, screaming as the destroyer honked its large horn, dashing towards the Battleship.

[The United Remnants of America]

Captain Furbish Task Force

---

International Waters, 1,000 Kilometers East of Furbish Islands

---

7/11/2017 - 08:45

---

Ping

"What the fuck was that?"

SSK-96 was an Empusa-class submarine, the regionalized class name for the Barbel-class of diesel-electric attack submarines. SSK-96, like many of the Empusa-class, had no name and was just referred to by its line number. A total of 96 hulls for the Empusa class had been completed and used by the Remnant Navy. So many had been made, the class had a production run of over thirty years. SSK-96, being the last one in the line, was a scant four decades old, compared to the URS Empusa, the first in the class, which was nearing its seventh decade as an operational vessel. In the Furbish Task Force, there were three other Empusas, the direct predecessors of SSK-96, -93, -94, and -95. Their class was named, obviously enough, after that ancient Greek servants of the goddess Hecate, who ruled over magic and roadways. The Empusae served Hecate by guarding those roads. The Empusa subs, such as their namesakes, were originally created to guard the roadways of the ocean. Now, decades after their service in the Remnant Navy, they were almost entirely used by the CPD as cheap underwater escorts.

SSK-96 was currently at the "forward point" of the CPD Furbish Task Force, 100 meters underwater and currently twelve kilometers ahead of the center-point of the fleet. That meant the sonar operator of diesel-electric submarine was the first to hear the faint pinging. The sonar operator repeated his question, first to himself, and then he called out. "What the fuck... Captain? Can you come here?"

The Empusa class was structured just like the Barbel it was based on, and the entire command was centered into a single room. The captain was a few steps away and quickly came up behind the young sonar operator. "What is it, Ed?"

The sonar operator looked up from the rolling display of the BQR-2 passive sonar. SSK-96 had been a few years behind waterfall displays, and the CPD didn't much care to upgrade or refit the old subs. The operator gestured to the rolling display, "Someone's out ahead of us, sir. I picked up an active sonar pulsing away."

The captain's face registered concern, "Yeah? What do you make of it, Ed?"

The operator shrugged and leaned back in his chair, "Ahh, I don't know. We're getting closer to the islands, so I'd say it's not civilian..." The sonar operator turned in his chair, "hey, Comms? Any updates on radar?"

The communications officer glanced up from his own post and then pack down at his station where he had a running list of ticker information. SSK-96 came up to the surface every two hours to pick up radio frequencies from the Wasp-class LHD from the main fleet. He had a ledger with all the communications they'd received on the trip. "Ahh, nothin', Sonar. Last check-in was forty minutes ago and there were no contacts on radar."

The sonar operator nodded and thanks the communications officer. He rubbed his chin, thinking it through. "Well, If they're not on radar... They can't be close enough to hear... But we can hear them. That means they're invisible to radar, or they're underwater."

The captain nodded, agreeing with the assumption, "Okay, kid, and what do you think?"

The sonar operator looked up at his captain, "I think it's a sub, sir. Marking contact as Sierra-1. I still can't hear the screws or-" the sonar operator's breath caught in his throat, before he closed his eyes and rubbed his face, "I lost it."

"Lost it?"

"Gone. Like they just switched to silent."

The captain nodded, "Keep an ear out," then glancing around, "Boats, rise to depth of 15 meters."

"Rising to depth of fifteen meters, aye, ma'am."

The captain glanced back at the communications officer, "When we get there, relay Sierra-1 contact to the fleet. I want the other Empusas up here, and I want Sea Stallions up ahead dipping."

Comms gave a sloppy salute and began writing on a piece of paper to remember the order, "Yes, ma'am."

---

Ten minutes later, the fleet had slowed to a crawl while SSK-93, SSK-94 and SSK-95 broke from their formation and began to speed ahead to catch their sister vessel at the front of the fleet. The four Empusa subs were going to create a picket line between the discovered contact of Sierra-1, which had been assumed to be a submarine that was now operating quietly ahead of them somewhere in the ocean. Each Empusa was two kilometers apart from the other, but prepared to tighten up if any of them indicated to the others that they had picked something up. They were all still relying on passive sonar at this point, not wanting to risk frightening the potential sub contact, or worse, threatening it into firing on the Empusas. They sonar equipment they had was forty years old, but it was still an exceptionally sensitive system.

While the Empusas lined up to keep the front of the fleet safe, the Wasp-class LHD XAAS-6, shorthand for Xirvo Amphibious Assault Ship had prepared a flight of four big CH-53 Sea Stallions to be ready for anti-submarine warfare operations. This meant loading them with torpedoes, depth charges, and sonobuoys, as well as a dipping passive hydrophone. These four Sea Stallions, creatively labelled 6-1 through 6-4 flew from their base ship and out ahead of the fleet, even out ahead of the Empusas that were underwater. They started ten kilometers ahead of the submarines, directly ahead of each one, and began to lower their sonar hydrophones into the water, listening for anything the Empusas couldn't pick up. The dipping sonars the Sea Stallions carried were more sensitive passive sensors than the Empusas, partly because they were simply newer passive sonar systems.

The Sea Stallions would move out by five kilometers before dipping into the water again. They were only supposed to go out to fifty kilometers ahead of the Empusas underwater, but if they found anything, they'd be forced to react accordingly to the changing scenario. Most of the Sea Stallion crews just assumed that SSK-96 was faulty and they were chasing ghosts.

Could a forty-year-old submarine actually be useful in the water?

[Ctelixii]

Aboard the Bōxāi, Frigate, En-route to the Furbish Islands

With the departure from Lākāi City, the ship continued on its way towards the Furbish Islands. The Bōxāi, a Makəkāi-class frigate, was crewed by 140 sailors, with a marine corps below deck of 60 soldiers. Other than that, numerous members of the Unified Foreign Ministry had sent their representatives to the Islands to negotiate a peace between these disparate factions.

The ship's briefing room was full. The 8 diplomats, led by Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi, a veteran of numerous missions such as these, as well as the warrant officer in command of the marines, his 2IC, who was a sergeant, the captain of the Bōxāi and the head of the humanitarian mission were all gathered inside the room. Ψ̌patīrāi stood to speak, and signaled to her aide to start her power point presentation.

"Right. So, here's what we know. Furby City has been attacked by terrorists, known as SETRA, or the Southeastern Territories Red Army. They have committed war crimes, though we believe the Furbish Islands see them as treachery. It appears not all nations can accept our ideals. The Furbish state wish to eliminate SETRA, thus, presumably, gaining control of their sovereign territory by force, while SETRA wish to secede and form their own nation within the Southeastern Territories."

As she rattled off these statements, images of the SETRA attacks showed up behind her.

"These are some of the attacks. Top right, you can see Furbish Airways flight FAI-354, which crashed close to the city, miraculously with no severe casualties. Next, 13 cars drove into civilians in Furby City. Et cetera, et cetera... 46 people are dead, and the Furbish government wants vengeance. This war is an extension of that quest for revenge."

A bizarre info-graphic showed up on the screen. The diplomats gazed at it intently, understanding its details, but the marines and naval personnel just gazed at it, amazed.

"As you can see here, the Government's forces are supported by many states, whereas the rebels have the support of a few communist states. However, the rebels control some strategic locations, including surrounding a major Furbish city, close proximity to two military bases and control over many of the surrounding islands. Of course, military action that close to civilians will only lead to more suffering for the Furbish people. We are here to stop that."

The sergeant raised his hand, and in a thick Ψelon Islander accent, began to ask a question.

"Why are we even helping these foreigners? I mean, they named themselves after a children's..."

"Let me make myself clear, Sergeant. We will not be referring to anyone as 'foreigners' or 'children's toys' or 'ewoks'. We are a professional diplomatic mission. Act like it."

The sergeant grunted, sitting back in his chair. Ψ̌patīrāi coughed, and continued.

"We shall be sending envoys to Lifulau and Sagala, as well as some of your marines. Warrant Officer Tporon, you shall lead the force defending the diplomats in Lifulau, while Sergeant Ctaŧon will lead the force defending the diplomats in Sagala. We shall notify both factions that our troops are under severe orders to only protect our diplomats, and that you will not engage in any fighting. Do we have an understanding?"

The Warrant Officer responded positively, while Sergeant Ctaŧon grunted once more.

"Captain Pīəton, do we have the helis ready?"

Pīəton, Captain of the Bōxāi, nodded, "Yes. They are ready for departure whenever we get confirmation from the factions."

"Good. Gentlemen, the time is 02:47, make communication arrangements now."

---

As humanitarian workers prepared their packages on the decks of the ship, the diplomats made their way to the communication room atop the bridge. One began a communication to the Furbish Government, while the other communicated with the rebels.

CTELIXĪON UNIFIED FOREIGN MINISTRY

to

GOVERNMENT OF FURBY ISLAND

Greetings,

We request docking in Sagala in order to deliver diplomats and humanitarian care to the area. We desire to see this war ended, and wish to work with your government to see that happen. Our group shall remain largely unobtrusive, and though we shall be travelling with some marines, they are only for protection if the worst occurs.

We will also be sending a delegation to Lifulau for similar reasons, in the hope that we may organise quick negotiations to conclude this conflict.

Best regards,
Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi,
Lead Diplomat to the Furbish Delegation.

CTELIXĪON UNIFIED FOREIGN MINISTRY

to

THE SOUTHWESTERN TERRITORIES RED ARMY

Greetings,

We request docking in Lifulau in order to deliver diplomats and humanitarian care to the area. We desire to see this war ended, and wish to work with your government to see that happen. Our group shall remain largely unobtrusive, and though we shall be travelling with some marines, they are only for protection if the worst occurs.

We will also be sending a delegation to Sagala for similar reasons, in the hope that we may organise quick negotiations to conclude this conflict.

Best regards,
Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi,
Lead Diplomat to the Furbish Delegation.

[Vymar]

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

A soldier inspected the battlefield in front of him with his binoculars, he saw rising smoke and also fires where enemy vehicles were destroyed, as well as vehicles and men that were advancing towards his position. It was the expected scene after a relentless attack with missile weaponry. He reported through his radio transceiver back to other parts of the battalion, first describing the hostiles that were still active and moving, as well as recommendations on what weaponry and what tactics to engage them with, followed by a somewhat exaggerated report of enemy casualties serving to boost morale of the remaining troops.

Unfortunately, either the Kuzagis seemed to have indulged too much in the game of blowing up armoured vehicles, or the enemy was pushing forward faster than expected, one of the two diversion positions found the Vymarian tanks right before them by the time they could react. There was little time to retreat, but the soldiers did the best they could to make sure none of their heavy weapons were left behind, either trying to transport away as many of them as possible or destroying them with explosives. After this, the majority of the troops attempted to withdraw, while a small part of the soldiers braved the enemy with their assault rifles and hand grenades, and once that didn't turn out too well they retreated too.

The collapse of this position was a serious blow and unexpected thwart of the Kuzagi plan. Meanwhile, reconnaissance reported that an enemy troop ship was approaching the island, definitely with reinforcements, and this no doubt added fuel to the fire. The Kuzagi commanders decided that it was now necessary to assault the enemy with the armoured company. They transmitted orders to that unit instructing it to flank the Vymarians, while also communicated with SETRA troops requesting that they attack in conjunction as well. However, just as the order was sent, the other diversion position was struck with incendiary munitions. The commanders had become quite worried with these drastic setbacks.

The troops that were unlucky enough to be bombed with napalm also collapsed quickly and were forced to withdraw from their position. With this, the Kuzagi line was pulled back heavily. Fortunately however the soldiers that were able to escape the fate of being burnt to death or being gunned down by the enemy were able to set up positions shortly after, and resume their work. Meanwhile, the anti-air sections that survived began engaging the F-16s with their Igla anti-air missiles immediately, alongside BRDMs and BTRs equipped with Strela-1 and other vehicle-mounted air defence systems in the rear. This exposed the armoured troops, but they had already begun their move.

Kuzagi armoured vehicles rolled out into the battle theatre, carrying infantrymen in and on them. As the jungle was not the best place for vehicles to be in, the tactic was to have infantry dismount from their APCs once they were in an engagement while the vehicles tried to provide fire support wherever and whenever they could. The BTRs fired their 30mm guns at light enemy vehicles and infantry concentrations, while the BRDM-2s used their Konkurs anti-tank missiles against heavier vehicles, though with so few of enemy armor left they barely got a chance to use their main armaments. The infantrymen noticed that an enemy amphibious assault vehicle was literally clad in humans, wary of this and concerned that they may harm those hostages should they use rockets, they attempt to disable it by attacking its tracks instead. Bullets, shells, grenades and rockets were all hurled at the Vymarian soldiers from their flanks.

The regrouped forces counted their numbers and had tallied 55 men lost in action, whether killed, captured or missing, out of 400 soldiers in total, while another 52 were injured. The number was increasing.

BEACHES OF KANTON

The fresh new batch of Vymarian troops hit the sand of the explosive island as the few there who over looked the beach head stood on top of an empty box, which previously contained food rations and the like, watching the large mass of 5,000 troops run onto the beach, awaiting their T99 tanks and ICV assault vehicles. One of the men on top of the box was eating a small bowl of oatmeal, his first meal since he was sent off on the boat.

He felt his bloodied leg as he put aside the oatmeal, savoring every bit of poorly crafted quick oat meal. He had been put back on the beach head after one of the Metis missiles had taken out a tank, shot shrapnel into his leg, and ruptured his left ear drum. He could walk, hell, if he needed to, he could run. But the shrapnel had done its job. After Kanton, he would be decommissioned from the military, as the shrapnel had cut into pain receptors, making him unaware he should be screaming in pain.

He watched the faces of the young Vymarian troops running into the jungle as the T99 tanks that hit the beach followed closely, and the ICVs, even closer. He did the math. According to one of his superiors, the 5000 that went into the island had been reduced to 3500, with 1500 dead, injured or missing. This meant, at least 3 men out of every squad that passed by him would meet a fate of nothingness, a fate of nonexistence. At least they were advancing, and that's all that really mattered. Wouldn't want all those deaths to go to waste.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
JUNGLES OF KANTON

Henry could practically taste the city of Kanton at this point. The remaining 280 troops of his 600 man battalion had continued marching, and according to some of the officers, reinforcements were coming momentarily. He would soon learn however, that the victory he had anticipated was not yet earned. An enemy BTR broke through the heavy brush and shot its 30mm shells into the company, filling tracer shells in the air and lifting up heaves of dirt. Everyone hid behind some type of tree as the 30mm ripped through some war fatigued soldiers who had been oblivious to the loud vehicle. The AAV7, still cladded with humans, that had been following them further and further behind them began firing into the wheels and turret of the BTR with its 40mm grenade launcher and large 50. caliber machine gun. The BTR, now with its wheels popped, slowly turned its head towards the AAV and just stared for a moment. The hesitation to shoot at the Human cladded AAV lead to a streak hitting the BTR in its turret, knocking the gun out. All Vymarian companies had troops that held RPGs, however, with low ammunition for them, the troops had decided not to use them, and to save them for the city. However, with the new enemy vehicles coming into play, that plan was thrown out the window.

Henry took potshots at the surrounding escort crew for the BTR as they spread out into the brush. The Escort team were attempting to get to the AAV, which was the essential lifeline to the battalion until reinforcements arrived. An AR filled the air with machine gun fire, attempting to keep the enemies heads down into the dirt, while another man attempted to throw a grenade into the enemy combatants. His journey was cut short as another man gunned him down just as he threw a single grenade into the brush. An explosion went off, then the combatants threw their grenades, being set off in small pockets of Vymarian troops.

The enemy had also sent missiles into the air, taking out 3 F-16s, sending them crashing into the ground. Now Air support was off limits, and the ground troops had to face the enemy troops, purely face to face.

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Outside Aubave, Furbish Islands

Pfc. Joshua Henson, 5th regiment, 78th INF DIV

They landed at the beaches with ease and little to no resistance, ad they moved towards the city of Aubave. The Aircorp was making launching a mission for air supremacy as the Army moved forward. He held his XM8 rifle and looked around as he sat on the back of a transportation Humvee. The highways was empty for now, but Arcadian military vehicles soon filled the highway. In the distance gunshots and explosions rang out as smoke billowed from the fighting in the distance. His Humvee turned on an exit into a town on the highway, in which enemy forces were in. As they drove down they were protected from minor cover, and once they got under the overpass, they dismounted with other units, and moved to secure the town. He walked on foot with his fire team and they walked towards an apartment complex, a Marine LAV drove beside them and soon an enemy RPG hit the LAV. Soon the LAV's gun opened up on the apartment complex, and he looked over and saw the tires were destroyed. It was immobile. He soon ran to cover behind a small stone wall, and turned off his safety. Soon the man on the RPG fired at the overpass, hitting the top of a tank. His fire team moved forwards again and as they reached the building they breached. The LAVs gunner started shooting at the suspected area of the RPG gunner, and they would have to keep out of the LAVs line of fire. They went up more and more stairs until they heard yelling to reload an RPG. They soon got quiet and stacked up on the door. Soon the Lance Corporal threw in a grenade and it detonated in the room of the RPG operator. After about two minutes the Sergeant got a cloth from his bag and waved it out of the whole in the wall to signal the LAV the rebels were dead. He looked out the whole in the wall and saw helicopters ful of soldiers fly to the city and he knew that fighting as engulfed the city aswell.

[Atkemri]

Bump

[Furbish Islands]

CTELIXĪON UNIFIED FOREIGN MINISTRY

to

GOVERNMENT OF FURBY ISLAND

Greetings,

We request docking in Sagala in order to deliver diplomats and humanitarian care to the area. We desire to see this war ended, and wish to work with your government to see that happen. Our group shall remain largely unobtrusive, and though we shall be travelling with some marines, they are only for protection if the worst occurs.

We will also be sending a delegation to Lifulau for similar reasons, in the hope that we may organise quick negotiations to conclude this conflict.

Best regards,
Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi,
Lead Diplomat to the Furbish Delegation.

FIAM Mail | Encryption : 25 | AUTOMATED

---

To: Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi
From: Boo-Kye@FIAM.gov.fu
Subject: Docking

---

Your request to dock in Sagala has been accepted.
The following message has been added by General Boo-Kye:

Hello, We are happy that you are sending diplomats to try to end the conflict with SETRA peacefully. However, negotiations will be near impossible with SETRA, and I advise your diplomats in Lifulau to be careful. Regards, General Boo-Kye

[Southeastern Territories Red Army]

CTELIXĪON UNIFIED FOREIGN MINISTRY

to

THE SOUTHWESTERN TERRITORIES RED ARMY

Greetings,

We request docking in Lifulau in order to deliver diplomats and humanitarian care to the area. We desire to see this war ended, and wish to work with your government to see that happen. Our group shall remain largely unobtrusive, and though we shall be travelling with some marines, they are only for protection if the worst occurs.

We will also be sending a delegation to Sagala for similar reasons, in the hope that we may organise quick negotiations to conclude this conflict.

Best regards,
Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi,
Lead Diplomat to the Furbish Delegation.

SETRA leaders read through the message. They unanimously agreed that they will not negotiate, but give the diplomats Ctelixii a nasty surprise. The following message was sent:

[ SOUTHEASTER TERRITORIES RED ARMY -----> CTELIXII FLEET ] We accept your docking request in Lifulau. We are happy to peacefully end the conflict.

[Kuzag]

BEACHES OF KANTON

The fresh new batch of Vymarian troops hit the sand of the explosive island as the few there who over looked the beach head stood on top of an empty box, which previously contained food rations and the like, watching the large mass of 5,000 troops run onto the beach, awaiting their T99 tanks and ICV assault vehicles. One of the men on top of the box was eating a small bowl of oatmeal, his first meal since he was sent off on the boat.

He felt his bloodied leg as he put aside the oatmeal, savoring every bit of poorly crafted quick oat meal. He had been put back on the beach head after one of the Metis missiles had taken out a tank, shot shrapnel into his leg, and ruptured his left ear drum. He could walk, hell, if he needed to, he could run. But the shrapnel had done its job. After Kanton, he would be decommissioned from the military, as the shrapnel had cut into pain receptors, making him unaware he should be screaming in pain.

He watched the faces of the young Vymarian troops running into the jungle as the T99 tanks that hit the beach followed closely, and the ICVs, even closer. He did the math. According to one of his superiors, the 5000 that went into the island had been reduced to 3500, with 1500 dead, injured or missing. This meant, at least 3 men out of every squad that passed by him would meet a fate of nothingness, a fate of nonexistence. At least they were advancing, and that's all that really mattered. Wouldn't want all those deaths to go to waste.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
JUNGLES OF KANTON

Henry could practically taste the city of Kanton at this point. The remaining 280 troops of his 600 man battalion had continued marching, and according to some of the officers, reinforcements were coming momentarily. He would soon learn however, that the victory he had anticipated was not yet earned. An enemy BTR broke through the heavy brush and shot its 30mm shells into the company, filling tracer shells in the air and lifting up heaves of dirt. Everyone hid behind some type of tree as the 30mm ripped through some war fatigued soldiers who had been oblivious to the loud vehicle. The AAV7, still cladded with humans, that had been following them further and further behind them began firing into the wheels and turret of the BTR with its 40mm grenade launcher and large 50. caliber machine gun. The BTR, now with its wheels popped, slowly turned its head towards the AAV and just stared for a moment. The hesitation to shoot at the Human cladded AAV lead to a streak hitting the BTR in its turret, knocking the gun out. All Vymarian companies had troops that held RPGs, however, with low ammunition for them, the troops had decided not to use them, and to save them for the city. However, with the new enemy vehicles coming into play, that plan was thrown out the window.

Henry took potshots at the surrounding escort crew for the BTR as they spread out into the brush. The Escort team were attempting to get to the AAV, which was the essential lifeline to the battalion until reinforcements arrived. An AR filled the air with machine gun fire, attempting to keep the enemies heads down into the dirt, while another man attempted to throw a grenade into the enemy combatants. His journey was cut short as another man gunned him down just as he threw a single grenade into the brush. An explosion went off, then the combatants threw their grenades, being set off in small pockets of Vymarian troops.

The enemy had also sent missiles into the air, taking out 3 F-16s, sending them crashing into the ground. Now Air support was off limits, and the ground troops had to face the enemy troops, purely face to face.

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

With one BTR-80 already disabled and no longer useful for the remainder of the battle, the Kuzagis began to learn of the desperate need to destroy the enemy unit as fast as they could so they could bring their attention to the enemy reinforcements. They didn't know where their SETRA allies were now, nor cared. Despite a growing impatience amongst the soldiers, they found that turning their rage and anger into drive for continuing to firing their rifles made little impact at all, in fact the most they did was overheat their own barrels and expend ammunition needlessly. They realized that they were being played and manipulated by the enemy's vicious tactic of holding their own comrades hostage in a most cruel method.

"We're going nowhere with this! We need to get our objectives and methods sorted and fast!" cried one officer as he realized the dire nature of the moment. The soldiers came to their senses one by one, and began rationally dissecting their situation. The enemy AAV was still their supporting pillar, but taking it out means risking the lives of comrades both Furbish and Kuzagi. The officer thought there might have been a story from the ancient epics and legends where a similar scene was encountered by the heroes, and wondered if the future generation will remember their endeavour in this battle through dug-up archive records or stories of mythologized history as well.

One injured soldier decided to volunteer to disable the AAV by means of grenades - it was a very primitive method seen in films about wars from the last century where men made tragic last stands against tanks of a far superior army. The crew of one BTR volunteered to provide cover, and after the brave man was given a bundle of grenades from his comrades, the vehicle ferociously fired at the enemy with its 30mm gun to attract a response, though avoiding the human shielding on the AAV by all means. Other infantrymen also provided support as well, shooting with their AK-103s and RPKs at the enemy, to pin them down such that the AAV will be forced to use its weapons on them. The valiant volunteer rolled down, taking hits on his already incapacitated right leg from wary enemy soldiers, then crawled towards the AAV, set off the fuse on one of the grenades, placed it between the wheels on one of the tracks, then attempted to run away as quickly as one could with one leg. With the explosion occurring seconds later in a massive discharge of heat and smoke, few would know his fate, though many did salute the man's courageous act.

Another explosion was heard in the distance, this time it was one of the BRDM-2s being destroyed by the enemy AAV. Even though losses for the Kuzagis were also rising with many soldiers falling to the ground, the unit was determined to achieve victory, and they were pressed to do so as soon as possible before another horde of armoured vehicles rams through the jungle.

[Ctelixii]

The Bōxāi, Frigate, off the coast of Outgarei

With both confirmations from the Furbish States in her hand, Valāi Ψ̌patīrāi made one final briefing to the four diplomats and the marines who were to be heading to both capitals. As the two helicopters began to power up, the sound around them was almost deafening. She spoke first to the marines.

"Gentlemen. You shall be heading to territories at war. Warrant Officer Tporon, you shall be heading to Lifulau. I'm sure it will play to their sense of importance to send a higher ranking officer. Sergeant Ctaŧon, you're going to Sagala."

She turned to the diplomats as the marines set up their helicopters and marine divisions - 8 marines on each helicopter. She spoke to each together.

"You four. Do not let your political convictions get in the way of diplomacy. Though, I'm sure it'll be easy for you, Comrade Gecinon."

All five of them laughed. Gecinon, a junior diplomat, was eager to travel to the SETRA headquarters and see the systems of socialism they had installed there. His senior, Ctavelon, a seasoned diplomat, was also travelling to Lifulau by the heli. Then the other two, both fairly seasoned diplomats, Vakāi and Ðālon, were to travel to Sagala. The five said their goodbyes, and entered the choppers. One turned north, while the other turned south. The one going north would arrive just before the one going south, but the ship loosely trailed the one travelling South. Valāi, while openly trusting the SETRA leadership to be level-headed and honourable, still took to heart what the general, Boo-Kye, had said to her in the message. She only shared this information with the Warrant Officer, who she was informed shared somewhat with his team.

'...negotiations will be near impossible with SETRA...'

Was this true? She hoped not. She looked to her right, to see one of the marines gazing out from the bow. She walked over to him.

"Must me nice. A couple of days without your commanding officer."

The marine smiled, "Warrant Officer Tporon made it very clear that, for the length of his mission, you were our commanding officer."

Valāi nodded, "He's a good man, Tporon, wouldn't you say?"

"It's not really my place to say," the marine began, his mind changing mid-sentence, "But we all respect him. We've never been in conflict, but he always asks us to do our best. There's no more that can be asked from a commanding officer. The League is in safe hands if he runs our unit."

Valāi smiled, "Go on. Get below. It's almost time for dinner. Rally the men in the mess deck."

---

Bōxāi 1, Helicopter, off the coast of Sagala

The Sergeant and his marines shared an awkward silence with the diplomats as the helicopter approached the Southeastern Territories' Capital, and the pilot of the transport helicopter was the only source of sound through the microphones connecting the passengers' conversations.

They could hear through the microphones a broadcast evidently meant for the Sagala ATC tower.

"Sagala, this is Boxer-001, requesting landing at a local airstrip."

---

Bōxāi 2, Helicopter, off the coast of Lifulau

The trip with the Warrant Officer had been decidedly less silent. The outgoing Warrant Officer made sure the diplomats felt like part of the marine group, and the conversation changed many times to interesting topics. The pilot turned back through the open cockpit door to speak to the Warrant Officer.

"Sir, we're about to prepare for landing."

"Excellent. Good to hear." The Warrant Officer clasped his hands together, his khaki uniform ruffling slightly in the light breeze of the air conditioning, "Lifulau, eh? I hear it's to be an interesting location. I never like to know what lies ahead. Kills all the fun."

The people inside the helicopter laughed.

"In all seriousness, apparently the Red Army is willing to accept negotiation. You're speaking to a receptive crowd. Especially you, eh Gecinon?"

Genicon blushed, "Ah, Ψ̌patīrāi tells me I need to be professional."

"Too right. Good woman, Valāi. You diplomats have a good commanding officer."

The helicopter began to descend. The pilot once again sent out a message to Lifulau.

"Lifulau, this is Boxer-002, requesting a landing at a place of your choosing."

[Atkemri]

It crashes into the battleship sending people falling off the edge of the boat. Roman watches in horror. He calls out "More kamikaze drones! Get those corvettes back in there! Bring 3 destroyers too!" He radios to the battleships being attacked "Board the destroyers! Get your sabers out!". The crew members in the battleships hear the message and immediately begin boarding the destroyers. As soon as they're on the ship they take out their sabers and engage crew members of the destroyers. Kamikaze drones crash in to the corvettes

The Corvettes shudder underneath the immense destructive force brought upon by the mass swarm of drones. They begin attempting to fire back at the drones to stop them from crashing into the ship. The officers call back to Lifulau as they quiver in their boots, watching their ships be pummeled hard by the Drones. "We need air support! We're getting ripped apart by enemy drones!".

The men inside the destroyers ready their assault rifles as they begin gunning down any soldier that boards the ship. Watching the mass of men with swords jumping from their battleship onto the destroyers. The 3rd destroyer, which had completely missed the first and second battleships was now charging at the one currently firing on the airfield. It would not stop, its men prepared to immediately board the battleship, screaming as the destroyer honked its large horn, dashing towards the Battleship.

The Atkemrian sailors upon seeing the boarding party take out their sabers and charge them. The commanding officer of the ship gets to the commanding deck firing her pistol at the boarding Estudeians.

[Victores]

International Waters

---

The entire crew sat in its command chamber in total silence. They had certainly be detected, there was no question. The sonar operators leaned forwards listening and watching their screens, trying to figure out what found them.

“Probably an enemy fleet” whispered the captain as sweat trickled down her brow. This was the first time someone may be actively trying to kill them. This realization came over the rest of the crew.

“Captain, we have a sound, something breaking the water’s surface. Possibly hydrophones, they could be able to hear our screws” said a sonar operator on sitting to the captain’s left.“Turn of the engine, we can just hover here for now”, she responded.
Kihrasa took another sip of tea, pondering what was to be done. She should have know this would happen, the South-East corner was where the fighting was. Even if they got out, they could turn around straight into another fleet. Suddenly her eyes lit up, a plan.

“Turn on active sonar, that way we can see them and they can see us. Turn the ship 180 degrees, parallel to the enemy line, assuming their going in a line. Fire a cavitation torpedo parallel to the enemy fleet, then make a run for it. The cavitation torpedo will distract them for long enough to get us to turn around and bolt. Additionally, it will convince them that something may have been chasing us, the perfect cover for our escape.”

“Captain, they have radar. They could just see that there are no surface ships.” responded the sonar operator.

“It doesn’t really matter, by the time they realize we’ll be off” said the captain, “send a message now”

The sonar operator flicked a switch on his control and the quiet pinging returned. A line of blips lit up on his screen, 4 smaller contacts, a number of larger contacts, and 4 tiny barely detectable blips that could not be identified 10 km ahead of the smaller blips. The helmsman turned quickly the submarine until it was parallel to line of blips, pushing the crew against their seats and the walls of the submarine. In the bowels of the submarine, the massive sliding magazines that held 3 torpedoes in modular tubes each slid into their launch tubes. There was the brief sound of the change of pressure as the tubes locked. The submarine had 8 slides in total, 2 for each torpedo tube with one slide of cavitation torpedoes. These torpedoes were in fact “anti-torpedoes” designed to be fired at enemy torpedoes, or to act as decoys. In this case the latter. A small button lit up on Kihrasa’s chair, she slipped her finger over it and pushed down. A white bubble zipped out of the torpedo tube, producing a massive stream of bubbles behind it.

“Everything is going to plan” thought Kihrasa

---

OOC: Apologies for the short post, I do not have much time right now. I'll post another one tommorow.

[The United Remnants of America]

Furbish Task Force

---

International Waters, 1,000 Kilometers East of Furbish Islands

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7/11/2017 - 08:55

---

"Wait," the sonar operator held out his had to get the captain's attention, "I think.... Yep, there it is. Sierra-1 is pinging again. Active sonar on Sierra-1."

The captain of SSK-96 was immediately behind her sonar operator, watching the rolling screen display. She wasn't the only one. On the three other Empusa-class submarines, similar actions were taking place as the entire submarine element of the CPD fleet picked up the active sonar of the Sierra-1 contact. The captain of SSK-96 was confused. Was this sub baiting them? Trying to get them to light up their own active sonar systems? Was this a hostile sub?

"Contact distance roughly 10km. I don't hear screws... Wait, I hear screws. Sounds like she might be turning... Towards us?" The sonar operator seemed confused.

The captain immediately understood what was happening. She pinched the bridge of her nose and held her breath, praying to a god she only prayed to when she was at depth that Sierra-1 wasn't lining up for a shot.

---

Meanwhile, the four Sea Stallions had also heard the active sonar from their buoys. The helicopters were halfway between the Empusas and Sierra-1 and immediately begin to move on the active sonar contact. Two were coming from the north and one from the south while one flew directly out of the east from the direction of the subs as the four helicopters collapsed on the contact. The 3-person crew of each helo had orders not to engage unless they had probable cause.

6-4 was coming out of the east and had slowed to dip their sonobuoy back into the water. The active sonar was 3 kilometers away now.

---

The sonar operator glanced at the captain, "I'm hearing... Sliding sounds.... I hear tubes opening... Fish in the water!"

With the report, the entire command bridge of SSK-96 became a flurry of action as everyone reacted to the fact that Sierra-1 had launched a torpedo. Elsewhere, SSK-93, -94, and -95 were reacting similarly, their screws turning faster now as they turned on the active sonar contact.

The captain glanced around, "Weps, what tubes are ready?"

The weapons officer looked up, "All of them, ma'am."

The Empusa-class sub shared a simple characteristic with its Barbel cousin. The Empusa had six-forward facing torpedo tubes set for the normal 21in torpedo. Each Barbel could carry up to 22 torpedoes. In the case of the four Empusa, they carried full loadouts of the Mk. 16 torpedo, a 4,000lb weapon that had a range of 11 kilometers. Each Empusa was currently within 10km of the sub.

"Flood tubes One through Six."

"Flooding tubes One through Six, aye."

"Sonar, range to Sierra-1?"

"Range to Sierra-1 8,9000 meters, ma'am."

"Weps..." The captain hesitated. Why had the contact fired on them? It didn't much matter, now. If Sierra-1 had fired any sufficiently-advanced munition, they'd be dead no matter what they could do. The only thing she could do was get revenge.

"Ma'am?" The weapons officer prompted.

"Weps, launch tubes One through Six."

Weps nodded and swallowed, "Launching tubes One through Six, aye."

The tube doors of SSK-96 slid open and the sub shuddered slightly as a Mk. 16 torpedo was fired from each tube in three-second intervals. The Mk. 16 was the largest conventional torpedo ever used in combat. It could travel underwater at over 45 knots. The best part about the Mk. 16 torpedo was its age. The Mk. 16 torpedo's only guidance system was a gyroscope to keep it on a generally-straight direction. They were essentially dumb-fired underwater rockets.

Picking up the launches from SSK-96, the other three subs in the unit slowed in surprise. RoE had been set by the captain of SSK-96. Each other sub flooded all six tubes and launched six more Mk. 16 torpedoes each, adding another 18 fish in the water from various vectors towards the general area of the Sierra-1 active sonar location. That made 24 total Mk. 16 dumb-fire torpedoes sent towards Sierra-1, all with different impact times and slightly different vectors.

"Weps, have all tubes refilled immediately."

"Yes, ma'am," The weapons officer passed the message on to the torpedo room.

"Helm, begin evasive maneuvers, down to 140 meters and starboard thirty degrees."

"Depth 140, starboard thirty degrees aye."

"Sonar, get me an update on that fish!" The captain's adrenaline was making these last few seconds seem like hours, even as the sonar operator reported that the fish didn't seem to be acting as a normal torpedo should.

---

"Holy shit, there was a launch and the Diesels just unloaded!" The copilot of 6-4 was amazed. "6-Flight, 6-4, Diesels fired on Sierra-1. Advise slowing to sono dip."

"Aye, 6-4"

The other three Sea Stallions in the air picket immediately slowed on their advance towards Sierra-1 to dip their hydrophones back into the water to pick up the active sonar signal of the contact.

"6-Flight, 6-1. Advise following Diesels in RoE procedure, copy?"

"Copy, 6-1," 6-4 pilot said, sharing a glance with his copilot.

"6-Flight, 6-1 authorizes engagement of Sierra-1."

And that was that. The Sea Stallions were cleared to engage. Each Sea Stallion in 6-Flight was outfitted for anti-submarine warfare, hence the hydrophones and sonobuoys. They were also armed with a half-dozen depth charges each, which could be dropped out the back of the aircraft by the Crew Chief after being set for depth. But that wasn't the weapon 6-Flight would be using this time.

Each Sea Stallion had four objects bolted to their stubby wings. They were the Mark 54 MAKO torpedo. The Mk. 54 was a 600lb lightweight weapon with an active/passive sonar guidance system. They had a speed of over 40 knots. Using the sonar signature from each hydrophone, all the Sea Stallions did was angle themselves on Sierra-1 and activate a Mk. 54 before popping the bolts to let it fall into the water. The Sea Stallions were closest with 6-4 at 3km away and furthest with 6-1 and 6-3 at 5km away. But each MK. 54 hit the water at roughly the same time.

Once hitting the water, the Mako would sink down fifteen meters before activating again. Since Sierra-1 was pulsing active sonar, she was immediately visible. The four torpedoes acquired locks and begin to speed forward towards the active sonar they heard as well as the cavitation noise they were picking up so close to the active sonar.

With a total of 28 torpedoes in the water all aimed at Sierra-1, with 4 of them actively homing in on any acoustic they were picking up and the other 24 racing blindly towards the active sonar signature they picked up, the unknown, but now hostile, submarine had created a problem for itself by firing on the CPD submarines. Almost 100,000 pounds of torpedo was finding its way towards Sierra-1, from different vectors, at different times, different speeds, and using different guidance systems.

[Luna Amore]

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

With one BTR-80 already disabled and no longer useful for the remainder of the battle, the Kuzagis began to learn of the desperate need to destroy the enemy unit as fast as they could so they could bring their attention to the enemy reinforcements. They didn't know where their SETRA allies were now, nor cared. Despite a growing impatience amongst the soldiers, they found that turning their rage and anger into drive for continuing to firing their rifles made little impact at all, in fact the most they did was overheat their own barrels and expend ammunition needlessly. They realized that they were being played and manipulated by the enemy's vicious tactic of holding their own comrades hostage in a most cruel method.

"We're going nowhere with this! We need to get our objectives and methods sorted and fast!" cried one officer as he realized the dire nature of the moment. The soldiers came to their senses one by one, and began rationally dissecting their situation. The enemy AAV was still their supporting pillar, but taking it out means risking the lives of comrades both Furbish and Kuzagi. The officer thought there might have been a story from the ancient epics and legends where a similar scene was encountered by the heroes, and wondered if the future generation will remember their endeavour in this battle through dug-up archive records or stories of mythologized history as well.

One injured soldier decided to volunteer to disable the AAV by means of grenades - it was a very primitive method seen in films about wars from the last century where men made tragic last stands against tanks of a far superior army. The crew of one BTR volunteered to provide cover, and after the brave man was given a bundle of grenades from his comrades, the vehicle ferociously fired at the enemy with its 30mm gun to attract a response, though avoiding the human shielding on the AAV by all means. Other infantrymen also provided support as well, shooting with their AK-103s and RPKs at the enemy, to pin them down such that the AAV will be forced to use its weapons on them. The valiant volunteer rolled down, taking hits on his already incapacitated right leg from wary enemy soldiers, then crawled towards the AAV, set off the fuse on one of the grenades, placed it between the wheels on one of the tracks, then attempted to run away as quickly as one could with one leg. With the explosion occurring seconds later in a massive discharge of heat and smoke, few would know his fate, though many did salute the man's courageous act.

Another explosion was heard in the distance, this time it was one of the BRDM-2s being destroyed by the enemy AAV. Even though losses for the Kuzagis were also rising with many soldiers falling to the ground, the unit was determined to achieve victory, and they were pressed to do so as soon as possible before another horde of armoured vehicles rams through the jungle.

KANTON

"The fucking AAV is tracked!". Henry looked over at the bare AAV, it was completely open to attack, tracks gone, and the only thing stopping it from being shot out of its existence was the human shield. PKM fire hit the tree around Henry as he was forced to duck back down behind his cover. He looked over to Commander Wilson, who seemed to be trying to get a shot off at the machine gunner. "Henry, peek over again".

"What?"

"I need to get off a shot at that AR"

"Just wait until he shoots at someone else!"

"And let them die? Peek god damn it!"

Henry looked over his shoulder, inching upwards as he attempted to peek over the fallen tree that had kept him in refuge. He then saw a large flash from a bush right in front of him, he noticed at first he couldn't hear, then he noticed he was falling over, and before he knew it, the Machine Gun abruptly stopped after Wilson let out 3 rounds into the flashing. Wilson was then engulfed by enemy gun fire, and crawled over to Henry, splinters in his eyes, face and mouth. He shook him.

"Henry?"

Henry looked up at Wilson, his vision was foggy, he was regaining some hearing, but he had an astounding head ache. A bullet had caught him at the top of the helmet, sending him falling backwards with his hair, sparking. "You're one lucky bastard". Despite Wilson's ballsy act, there was still an unimaginable amount of fire heading their way, bullets pounding the dirt, wood, and occasionally, flesh. They couldn't tell how many there were, but they were doing a hell of a job.

A distant running of another engine could be heard in the back round behind the Vymarian troops, then Abruptly went off. The suppressive fire sent by the enemy combatants followed. For a full minute, everything went quiet. The AAV7 stopped firing, The Vymarians stopped shooting, and so did the enemy combatants. All listening for the engine sound heard only 600 meters away. Then, like a hawk diving down on a lone rat, 2 HE rounds and 40mm grenades from the Vymarian reinforcements pounded the enemy encampments. Then a large amount of footsteps began getting louder and louder, the fresh 600 strong Vymarian Battalion. The 2 tanks were then followed by another 10 T99s and 8 ICVs pummeling the enemy positions. The fellow Vymarian soldiers let out loud yells as they began to take cover and open fire on enemy positions. HE shells pounded the enemy encampment, followed by an AP shell penetrating the tracked BTR. A BDRM had popped out on the left and let out a shot penetrating one of the T99s killing the driver and rendering the tank useless. Then another T99 snapped its turret towards the retreating BDRM and let out 3 AP and HE shells, penetrating the BDRM. The fresh troops began advancing up, Henry still in shock just watched a Vymarian troop walk up to him while the Tanks and ICVs continued advancing. The trooper turned to Henry "Well, what are you lookin' at? lets start marching!", he stuck out his hand. Henry waited a bit, then grabbed his hand and got up to both feet. Wilson got up as well. "Well, I guess its time for us to put this one in the bag".
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

50,000 FEET ABOVE SEA LEVEL
ISLAND OF KANTON
B-52 CODENAME "FOX"

Pilot McGregor had just relayed pictures of the Island of Kanton. The city was completely up in smoke due to the bombing runs that were enacted from the start of the battle, and the armored divisions had hit the Kuzagis hard. Smoke was billowing up from the jungle, and as far as he could tell, they were getting closer and closer to the city. They had also managed to find some Kuzagi emplacements and let the Vymarian ground troops know of their whereabouts. It seemed to McGregor that, despite the initial issues, the invasion was running smoothly.

OOC: Sorry for the small text, I don't know why its happening

[Furbish Islands]

"Sagala, this is Boxer-001, requesting landing at a local airstrip."

[ FURBY ISLAND ARMED FORCES, FIAFACP SAGALA -----> BOXER-001 ] You may land at landing strip B. I repeat, land in landing strip B.

As the helicopter landed, Governor Koh-Nee(the governor of the Southeastern Territories), General Boo-Kye(the leader of the army), General Mee-Zye(the commander in chief of all armed forces in the Southeastern Territories), Admiral Doo-Loo(the commander in chief of Pacific Fleet Alpha), and General Ah-Lee(the leader of all reinforcements sent by Furby Island), all went over to the landing strip.

[Southeastern Territories Red Army]

"Lifulau, this is Boxer-002, requesting a landing at a place of your choosing."

SETRA's leader, Zoo-Kee was notified about it. Some diplomats would land, and try to end the conflict peacefully. He laughed very hard when he heard that. He will only accept if he gets what he and the rest of SETRA want, which is something no on else in Furby Island want. Soon, the air traffic control tower in the Lifulau airport picked up a signal. He and a few other SETRA leaders were discussing it.

Oo-Koh was one of the people in the room. But unlike everyone else, he was one of the 43 FISS agents that "work" for SETRA. He wasn't in charge of them all, but he had the highest rank within SETRA. He had handed over a lot of important information about SETRA to the FISS, gave SETRA false information, and suggested ideas that were either meant to undermine their efforts. He has suggested to split the main force to Alona, Hoku, and the Niugai Islands instead of going straight to Matuata, which is the only reason why the city isn't captured yet, and why advancements are at a stalemate. He knew all about the situation, and decided that he will suggest to send the diplomats to SETRA's only prison, and there they will be freed by the FISS.

ATC officer: Sir, we received the following signal. *plays the message* I recommend we shoot them down immediately.

Zoo-Kee: Hmm. Do they really think we will end this peacefully? Not unless we get ALL of the Southeastern Territories. Shoot them down immediately!

missile officer: Yessir.

Oo-Koh: Wait! Do you realize what shooting the helicopter would do? It would cause them to join the Furbish, which means another nation will help them destroy us. How about we let them land, act like we're willing to cooperate, and then take them prisoner. Then, we will threaten to kill them if their country wants war against us. They will try to negotiate their release, which will give us a lot of money. Plus we can look intimidating. Keep them in our prison.

Zoo-Kee: True. You have a good point. We will not launch missiles. Prepare a truck and a boat to send them to the prison. Send them a message saying to land at the only helipad. And I want a message drafted that will be sent when the diplomats arrive to the prison.

[ SOUTHEASTERN TERRITORIES RED ARMY -----> BOXER-002 ] Your request to land in Lifulau is accepted. You may land in the helipad.

Upon sending that message, a few SETRA officials, including Zoo-Kee and Oo-Koh, went to the helipad. They went withtheir bodyguards, and "a few more bodyguards".

[Kuzag]

KANTON

"The fucking AAV is tracked!". Henry looked over at the bare AAV, it was completely open to attack, tracks gone, and the only thing stopping it from being shot out of its existence was the human shield. PKM fire hit the tree around Henry as he was forced to duck back down behind his cover. He looked over to Commander Wilson, who seemed to be trying to get a shot off at the machine gunner. "Henry, peek over again".

"What?"

"I need to get off a shot at that AR"

"Just wait until he shoots at someone else!"

"And let them die? Peek god damn it!"

Henry looked over his shoulder, inching upwards as he attempted to peek over the fallen tree that had kept him in refuge. He then saw a large flash from a bush right in front of him, he noticed at first he couldn't hear, then he noticed he was falling over, and before he knew it, the Machine Gun abruptly stopped after Wilson let out 3 rounds into the flashing. Wilson was then engulfed by enemy gun fire, and crawled over to Henry, splinters in his eyes, face and mouth. He shook him.

"Henry?"

Henry looked up at Wilson, his vision was foggy, he was regaining some hearing, but he had an astounding head ache. A bullet had caught him at the top of the helmet, sending him falling backwards with his hair, sparking. "You're one lucky bastard". Despite Wilson's ballsy act, there was still an unimaginable amount of fire heading their way, bullets pounding the dirt, wood, and occasionally, flesh. They couldn't tell how many there were, but they were doing a hell of a job.

A distant running of another engine could be heard in the back round behind the Vymarian troops, then Abruptly went off. The suppressive fire sent by the enemy combatants followed. For a full minute, everything went quiet. The AAV7 stopped firing, The Vymarians stopped shooting, and so did the enemy combatants. All listening for the engine sound heard only 600 meters away. Then, like a hawk diving down on a lone rat, 2 HE rounds and 40mm grenades from the Vymarian reinforcements pounded the enemy encampments. Then a large amount of footsteps began getting louder and louder, the fresh 600 strong Vymarian Battalion. The 2 tanks were then followed by another 10 T99s and 8 ICVs pummeling the enemy positions. The fellow Vymarian soldiers let out loud yells as they began to take cover and open fire on enemy positions. HE shells pounded the enemy encampment, followed by an AP shell penetrating the tracked BTR. A BDRM had popped out on the left and let out a shot penetrating one of the T99s killing the driver and rendering the tank useless. Then another T99 snapped its turret towards the retreating BDRM and let out 3 AP and HE shells, penetrating the BDRM. The fresh troops began advancing up, Henry still in shock just watched a Vymarian troop walk up to him while the Tanks and ICVs continued advancing. The trooper turned to Henry "Well, what are you lookin' at? lets start marching!", he stuck out his hand. Henry waited a bit, then grabbed his hand and got up to both feet. Wilson got up as well. "Well, I guess its time for us to put this one in the bag".
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

50,000 FEET ABOVE SEA LEVEL
ISLAND OF KANTON
B-52 CODENAME "FOX"

Pilot McGregor had just relayed pictures of the Island of Kanton. The city was completely up in smoke due to the bombing runs that were enacted from the start of the battle, and the armored divisions had hit the Kuzagis hard. Smoke was billowing up from the jungle, and as far as he could tell, they were getting closer and closer to the city. They had also managed to find some Kuzagi emplacements and let the Vymarian ground troops know of their whereabouts. It seemed to McGregor that, despite the initial issues, the invasion was running smoothly.[/size]

OOC: Sorry for the small text, I don't know why its happening

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

As several trees fell in unison, revealing a flood of armoured vehicles the Kuzagis feared since the beginning of their fiasco, the soldiers were quick to realize that further resistance was useless and retreat was the only solution left. The Kuzagis possessed no capability to land such massive armoured forces into battle, even the Polnochny-class landing ships could only haul 8 armoured personnel carriers, not to mention that, firstly the Central Military Commission had no desire of risking these vessels, and secondly the attack on Kanton was not expected and thus the troops sent there were not quite prepared either. The soldiers still felt bitter over that the enemy battalion managed to survive their onslaught, not even a small, brief victory could be swapped for the prices they had paid and the losses they suffered, but they had to do what was necessary to avoid all of them being annihilated.

With only 1 BTR-80 and 3 BRDM-2s left as well as many men lost or incapacitated, the assault company ended up as well as one would expect them to be in such a battle. The hurried withdrawal saw another BRDM damaged by enemy shells. The RPGs the men conserved however finally saw use in sporadic return fire that was nevertheless pathetic in comparison with the level of firepower the Vymarian armour deployed. The retreating men had difficulty outrunning the enemy as their transport capability was reduced with their vehicles destroyed, but that was when the remnants of the mortar section came in.

There were 4 mortars were still active, they had survived the earlier combat, especially the air strikes. They would see use again, a bombardment directed at the attacking opponent that would hopefully slow them down to win time for the retreating troops up front. Kuzagi officers would also contact SETRA artillery positions recommending them to join in the effort as well. As the mortar crews lobbed bomb after bomb at the distant yet constantly approaching foe, anti-air missile operators kept an eye on the skies in case the F-16s were out to harass or destroy them again. Meanwhile, surviving anti-tank missile crews moved to take positions to engage enemy armor once they closed in.

The Kuzagi soldiers, despite the uneasy situation, were able to squeeze out time to register their numbers and the status of every fighting man left, and the results were grim. 90 men had been lost in action while another 70 were injured and couldn't fight. Only 240 remained capable of fighting in the battalion, and the unit had been deducted in strength by 40%. Doubts began to be raised as to the real cause of their messed-up state, were they really outnumbered and bound to defeat, or were there pitfalls in their strategy, in how they approached this battle in the first place?

[North Kcorea]

The DRNK commends the actions of SETRA In all operations!

[Blue unions]

After many attempts to register into war and groups of ministers debating what weapons to use, they agreed on changing the weapons considering some to be old and outdated to newer standards of weapons able to survive in war. The Ministry of Defence have announce to the whole country that Blue Unions will enter the war with furbish island as its leading ally in the fight against the terror organisation, SETRA. These are the following message made by the Ministry of Defence.

Attention all military personal. those who's battalion are called, please activate and prepare to mobilize to your designated military camps to be briefed by your platoon sergant. Attention, this is not a drill. Blue Union has declared war on SETRA and ally with Furbish Island. Mobilize battalion Husky2, Typhoon20, Ninja3, Alpha9 and Blue5. Your country now called YOU to service, [BLUE UNIONS!]

And on that very day, massive groups of soldiers flood the military shipyards and board their ship that their assign to and immediately sail off to furbish islands capital. Aircraft carrier and Amphibious Assault Ships filled with troops and planes, civilian cargo ships full of massive war machines including some parts of dismantled fighter plane that will be deployed in allied military air base for quick action when needed.

---

A radio transmission has reached Furbish Island shipyards
RADIO TRANSMISSION:Привет!(greetings!) I am captain VonBolt from the nation Blue Unions requesting to dock our ships so we can discus on our war operation? we have 3500 men ready to face battle, but some of our armour still needs preparation and dismantled fighters jets shipped to your wished destination for quick construction and long term combat with our enemy.

[Lamerika]

9th Lamerikan Volunteer Force
South Of the Kanton Island
Operation "Island Syndrome" - Day 0

---

The sound of war could be heard over the water, as clouds of smoke crept over the Lamerikan ship, drifting through the water. Whatever was going on in the rebel held island, it certainly did not seem to be going well. This reflected on the attitude of Lamerikan soldiers, many standing on the deck of their ships, starring out at the island and pondering as to the death and destruction going on just out of eye shot. They were angry, knowing their comrades were suffering, but for now there was nothing to be done but stand by and wait.

On the deck of the Lamerikan Flagship, a Kuznetsov Class Carrier, the Division Commander Dennis Green examined the shore with a pair of binoculars. It was almost time. He handed the binoculars to a Junior Commander and returned to the carriers bridge, saluted by the crew inside before they returned to work. "If they've made it onto Kanton the situation is worse than we thought." ComDiv Green said, looking down at a map in the center of the bridge, "If SETRA is already on the defensive we need to act, yesterday."

"Comrade ComDiv, friendly KPA troops should be on the island as we speak, but their being overrun." A young officer said, pointing to positions on the map, "From what we understand they're trying to retreat."

"Right then, let's see if we can't take the heat off there asses." Green said, pushing himself off from the table and marching towards the windows of the bridge, "Radio the friendlies on the island and try to get a gauge of the situation, while you do that I want a flight of LF-16s on the deck ready to launch ASAP. Get 1st Battalion on standby. These bastards won't take Kanton that easy!"

Pilots raced to LF-16 Jets on the carriers deck, getting ready for the assault, while Lamerikan radio operators attempted to get in contact with KPA troops on the island.

Code: Select all

From: ComDiv Dennis R. Green, 9th Volunteer Force
Directed to: Soldiers of the KPA Expeditionary Forces
Encryption: High

Attention all personnel, this is the LSS Columbia of the Lamerikan Naval Force, requesting permission to launch flight of four LF-16 Jets to attack hostile forces on the island, and to support the advance of the 1st Volunteer Rangers Battalion, Over.

[Atkemri]

With the naval battle raging Roman notices the battle of Kanton. He walks outside on his aircraft carrier. He points to some soldiers relaxing "Get your division and get on those transports your going to Kanton." They all simultaneously reply with Yes sir and call their division. As they fly they look out on the tropical landscape "It's a shame that we are going to blow this into smithereens Captain Beni". He replies "Shut up private." They land on the beaches and make their way toward the city. "Do you see the city Steve?" "Yes sir." Captain Beni picks up his radio and tells the coordinates for a bombing run. Then a hour later the city is being hit with incendiary bombs.

[Vymar]

KPA Expeditionary Forces
Kanton

As several trees fell in unison, revealing a flood of armoured vehicles the Kuzagis feared since the beginning of their fiasco, the soldiers were quick to realize that further resistance was useless and retreat was the only solution left. The Kuzagis possessed no capability to land such massive armoured forces into battle, even the Polnochny-class landing ships could only haul 8 armoured personnel carriers, not to mention that, firstly the Central Military Commission had no desire of risking these vessels, and secondly the attack on Kanton was not expected and thus the troops sent there were not quite prepared either. The soldiers still felt bitter over that the enemy battalion managed to survive their onslaught, not even a small, brief victory could be swapped for the prices they had paid and the losses they suffered, but they had to do what was necessary to avoid all of them being annihilated.

With only 1 BTR-80 and 3 BRDM-2s left as well as many men lost or incapacitated, the assault company ended up as well as one would expect them to be in such a battle. The hurried withdrawal saw another BRDM damaged by enemy shells. The RPGs the men conserved however finally saw use in sporadic return fire that was nevertheless pathetic in comparison with the level of firepower the Vymarian armour deployed. The retreating men had difficulty outrunning the enemy as their transport capability was reduced with their vehicles destroyed, but that was when the remnants of the mortar section came in.

There were 4 mortars were still active, they had survived the earlier combat, especially the air strikes. They would see use again, a bombardment directed at the attacking opponent that would hopefully slow them down to win time for the retreating troops up front. Kuzagi officers would also contact SETRA artillery positions recommending them to join in the effort as well. As the mortar crews lobbed bomb after bomb at the distant yet constantly approaching foe, anti-air missile operators kept an eye on the skies in case the F-16s were out to harass or destroy them again. Meanwhile, surviving anti-tank missile crews moved to take positions to engage enemy armor once they closed in.

The Kuzagi soldiers, despite the uneasy situation, were able to squeeze out time to register their numbers and the status of every fighting man left, and the results were grim. 90 men had been lost in action while another 70 were injured and couldn't fight. Only 240 remained capable of fighting in the battalion, and the unit had been deducted in strength by 40%. Doubts began to be raised as to the real cause of their messed-up state, were they really outnumbered and bound to defeat, or were there pitfalls in their strategy, in how they approached this battle in the first place?

KANTON

"Run them into the ground!". The tanks let out another salvo towards the retreating Kuzagi soldiers while the ICVs continued peppering the enemy forces. The whole company, along with the entire rest of the division had started picking up speed, dashing towards the city, hungry for more, and it wouldn't stop until they kicked all the rebels off the island. At least that's what the troops who could fight thought. Henry, for all intents and purposes, couldn't walk. He had collapsed shortly after the large pick up in speed occurred. When a medic opened up his flak jacket and his body armor, he found his entire body was caked in blood. Wood, bones, metal had all buried themselves into his chest and legs. They were all poking out, as they hadn't penetrated deep enough to actually kill him... immediately. He was now back on the beach head, where the entire operation started.

He looked to his left, one of his squad mates were one of the unlucky ones to get shot in the initial landing phase, and the Vymarian soldiers had not stopped to clean up the beach. And so his squad mate floated in the clear Furbish water, as all the blood had been drained out to sea. Along with his squad mate, bodies littered the beach, along with craters from the Kuzagi mortars. He held a beer in one hand, a cigarette in another, his gun, at his feet. He was never a smoker, nor a drinker. But with his current injuries, he might as well start now.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

KANTON
ARMOR GROUP FOXTROT

Commander Richard Andrews looked through his periscope as the tank dashed after a Kuzagi BDRM, his wingman, not too far behind him, with almost 1,000 troops not too far behind his wingman as well. The tank rolled its turret over to the retreating BDRM and let out 3 shots into the back of the vehicle. It stopped shortly after, flames spewing out of its engine, and its crew running outside of the vehicle narrowly escaping the fiery death inside of the vehicle. It had managed to knock out an ICV and damage a T99s turret before its demise, and the Vymarian troops closing in on them made sure their anger was clear. A full squad got to them first grabbing them from their feet and throwing them to the floor. Punches were thrown between them, then another squad got to them and began beating on them. Richard, looking at them in disgust turned towards his driver "Drive on...". Under his breath "Savages" was muttered as to not get his tank flipped over by the rabid countrymen. Just then, a mortar round landed on the brawling soldiers, leaving only a crater and dirt on Richard's tank. His wingman pulled up to him "Well, I guess they all deserved it" he called out as he opened the hatch. Richard opened his hatch as well as the tank continued pulling forward "Damn grunts think the battles already over".

His wingman shot him a look "Well, as far as I can tell, they're on the run. I mean c'mon Richard, these guys killed thousands of our men, I knew a lot of these infantry". Richard looked back at his Wingman "Yeah, cant wait to get court marshalled for war crimes". He closed the hatch and had the tank pick up speed, as so the wingman. Despite the occasional RPG that was fired, not much resistance was received. The orders back from the Vymarian command centers was to attack the anti-aircraft sites remaining on the island as to get the F-16s back in the air. And the soldiers on Kanton seemed determined to do so.