Between Ice and a Cold Place [MT, OPEN]

[The Green Union]

OOC: Thank all of you for your patience. I'm afraid I still won't be posting until Friday due to my being in the middle of finals.

When I do get back I will start by responding to Altos and Stratis' post and furthering the story about the arrested students. I would recommend some people make responses to the latter bit, since it is likely to become important later.

In the meantime, enjoy our new map (courtesy of Albatan!)

[The Green Union]

OOC: Time for my next move. Feedback is welcome.
IC:
EC-130AS Electronic Warfare Aircraft, Off the coast of The Green Union

. . .

1 Hour later
The C-Sec interceptors had given up the chase, either due to losing interest or running out fuel and having to return to base.
“Well that was fun, but now we have a long boring flight home.” Thought both Scott and Carter.
while the flight crew was contemplating their long flight home, the technicians were further analyzing the radar signatures they had gathered from the Green Union and were preparing them to be uploaded into the air force database.

The CGU has today reported what it expects to be an incursion by an Arcadian spy plane into its airspace off the Green Union East coast. Land-based radar establishments detected what appeared to be a large military transport, perhaps a C-130 variant, which was making provocative movements well within the nation's sovereign maritime territory. Congressional Security Forces scrambled air assets to intercept, and successfully chased the UFO from Green Union airspace. However, due to the first two fighters airborne being F-56 variants from the former Communist era, they did not manage to catch the interloper. C-Sec blames the fact that it still relies somewhat on these aircraft on the lagging acquisition process of new planes from Vilhalan firms.

The CGU is thoroughly convinced that it is dealing with yet another Arcadian violation of its sovereignty, since the UFO upon engagement employed electronic warfare systems to blind and delay the C-Sec response, and the only land bases near enough to launch the aircraft are located in the GRA's Arctic colony. Only the Arcadian military are known to posses the capabilities to launch this provocative action, and the CGU calls on them to explain themselves.

[Kalaascovy]

GREEN UNION, WARZONE AIRSPACE, NORTH OF HIMMELSDORF (Restricted Airspace for Civilian and Foreign Aircraft).
The Air Balugata Incident
An Air Balugata aircraft, a multi-nationalized air institute owned by the join governments of the Balugata region, had entered restricted airspace and received no warnings before being shot down. It was entering said restricted airspace while coming in from Rohendia's capital city, Solomon, not aware of the new extension of unrestricted airspace and the governments of Kalaascovy and Rohendia have issued joint statements of anger due to the incident. Both have demanded apologies from the new Green Union government due to claims from survivors that a fighter had shot down the aircraft, something that only the government has possession of. Due to both pilots and crew having died in the incident, there is no way of validation on the claims, nor has the black box been recovered. This incident comes freshly off the heels of the EC-130AS escaping (which is unknown to anyone but those involved).

[The Green Union]

Inside the Building
“A rather harsh entrance for a potential ally, no?” Muttered the captain.
“I’ve unfortunately had my crew burn all evidence of ourselves, which is why the smoke came from the old ship. You might also be asking why an old bastard like me, is dressed like this. Let’s just say it’s for in case of my interception.”
“Before I go another further, may I preemptively ask, can the safety of my crew be guaranteed?”

The Captain shivered a bit, largely because he was originally from the Old Imperial District which was much warmer than most of Kalaascovy. The captain clears his throat. “Anyway, while I can’t say who specifically called let’s just say I’ve been sent from an ally who you might remember if you watched the television recently. It caused quite the controversy in your enemy’s parliament, that’s for sure.” The captain coughed yet again. “Now, the deal I was assigned. Can you, or someone of equal standing join me on my journey home to meet with my nation’s leader. We intend to negotiate an arms deal from there, we’ll even donate more ships if you so wish. Take all the stockpiled weapons inside my ship, and if someone returns with me, I can guarantee you more arms than you can imagine, perhaps even a volunteer force or two.”

And as the captain is about to finish his sentence, “Oh, and I request that if a decision is made quickly. I had to take an extra week of navigation when coming here, as my ship wasn’t built to handle this much ice. And if I don’t return soon, our leader could potentially send agents to find you and I, assuming I was intercepted by an enemy and you never received my arms request.”

Armin Jäger, Unspecified Northern Commune, Arasland:

The ARF leader clasped the captain's hand firmly. "I am aware of your country, sir. That is, if you really are from Kalaascovy." He stared deeply into the man's eyes, then looked him up and down intently. "Yes, I can believe that. You are who you say you are."

He sat down then. "In that case, you deserve to know who we are. As you are already aware, my name is Armin. Some consider me to be the leader of the Aras Revolutionary Front, but our struggle to resist the northern grasping of these oil companies is so broken that even I am not aware how many of us there may be. This commune is probably the largest civilian centre we control, and we have been using it as our main weapons cache and headquarters. We also have a large number of Aras refugees, victims of the congress' campaign of commune razing."

Some of Jäger's supporters were shifting uncomfortably now, but the man seemed confident spilling their secrets. "We came here some months ago with inside help. The security forces use Green Union citizens as their cannon fodder, and most would rather turn a blind eye than fight against us. We were fortunate in that this place did not have Vilhalan officers on-site, and the troops stationed here have been pretending that nothing is wrong ever since. I see you've met Comrade Anne. She was one of the soldiers, and we are forever in her debt."

The soldier by the door looked down, staring daggers at her LAF combat boots.

It would have been a tense moment, but then a sound was heard reverberating through the walls. A distant beating grew swiftly louder, until the unmistakable sound of rotors passed metres above the house.

"C-Sec helicopter," Armin Jäger noted grimly, "no doubt here for the ship." He then looked around the room at his staff and the newcomer. "I want options now, because if we can't come up with a plan then I'm going to hand the Kalaascovian crew over to the CGU to make them go away."

GREEN UNION, WARZONE AIRSPACE, NORTH OF HIMMELSDORF (Restricted Airspace for Civilian and Foreign Aircraft).
The Air Balugata Incident
An Air Balugata aircraft, a multi-nationalized air institute owned by the join governments of the Balugata region, had entered restricted airspace and received no warnings before being shot down being intercepted by fighter aircraft and forced to land at a remote security force airfield. It was entering said restricted airspace while coming in from Rohendia's capital city, Solomon, not aware of the new extension of unrestricted airspace and the governments of Kalaascovy and Rohendia have issued joint statements of anger due to the incident. Both have demanded apologies from the new Green Union government due to claims from survivors that a fighter had shot down the aircraft, something that only the government has possession of they had been held on the freezing tarmac for almost two hours before being subject to a humiliating strip search, all without being provided protection from the elements. Due to both pilots and crew having died in the incident, there is no way of validation on the claims, nor has the black box been recovered At least one passenger died of hypothermia during this time, and several others had digits permanently damaged by frostbite. This incident comes freshly off the heels of the EC-130AS escaping (which is unknown to anyone but those involved).

OOC: C-Sec is not this brazen yet.

The government of the Green Union has defended its practice of intercepting the foreign Air Balugata flight in a press conference today. Officials have confirmed that no notice was given due to a growing number of UFOs in Green Union airspace, and that they did not want to risk alerting a possibly hostile aircraft of its detection early. Air Balugata, being a multinational entity owned by communist terrorist nations, should not be surprised when suspicious activity from its aircraft are taken seriously.

While the government regrets the conditions civilians were kept in once arrested, the CGU says that there was no better alternative in the rough conditions of the Green Union's north. Those whom turned out to be civilians had at the time been onboard a noted communist aircraft, and were all potential terrorists.

The survivors of the incident were transported to Himmelsdorf and are being treated at Himmelsdorf Emerald Hospital, a state-of-the-art facility which has now been privatized. The hospital's new management has said that it expects all survivors to pay for their own treatments.

[Durradon]

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU
Sergeant Samson Carwin

The VTOLs landed in their bays and emptied into the base. The Arcadians were sedated without knowledge and taken below ground and put in Durradonian holding blocks in addition to shackles on their arms and legs, under armed guard. The young Aras was taken to Samson's quaters, a small room for miners with a bed and table but not much else. C-Sec could arrive anytime so Samson and the mercenaries had to come up with something quick. Samson made his way to his room with fresh clothes and more miscellaneous items. He opened the door.

"Right then... Eule? Right? We've got to act quick and I'm sure you'll agree. C-sec is coming and they knew we were at the I know it's not entirely savoury, but you'll need to pretend to be someone else. Can you do that for me?"

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU

Stg. Rainer Husch, 809th Irregular Forces Battalion

He awoke in a cell with his men and he looked around at where they were held. Now it was a wating game on whether they would be turned into the Vilhalans or kept in the CSD's grasp.


Pinehurst State Penitentiary, Urlistan

GYSGT. Josua Becker, 171st Theater Group, Army Physiological Operations Command

The selected prisoners had been lead out of thier cells, and moved to a small room so he could talk to them. All of them were PAR terrorists. When he walked into the room the prison guards had to keep them in thier seats and once they settled down he spoke "I am Gunnery Sergeant Becker, Im from the Arcadian Army, and I want to give all of you an opportunity at freedom and a free Green Union." Many of the prisoners were now confused, and thats when he turned on the slide show, which o nthe first slide showed the flag of the Green Union, and he spoke "As we all know the Congress of the Green Union has carried out many atrocities in their lands and we just need to show the world the evidence. My government is willing to set you free and train all of you for combat and small team tactics for select fire missions in which you will be needed. One mission is taking down the firewall that stops all news from the country from getting out. We need 38 of you for this, we have a plan and instructors ready to train you all.After this meeting one of my men will see you for your answers."

[The Green Union]

Kamooko, Capital of Placeoderms

Stepping out of the plane, the Confederate emissaries we somewhat underwhelmed by the sight of Kamooko itself. Rynnmouth had hundreds of towers stretching into the sky with many intricate designs of glass and steel, with stone buildings being overshadowed by their new counterparts. However the sight of Placeodermic armour made the men stare in awe at it's might. KP representatives quickly met with the Durradonians, making sureof their safe flight and showing them the way to their transport, no doubt well-armoured, even if not a tank. Talks would happen soon, however the intention of such talks were unbeknownst to the curious visitors, they only knew that it had something to do with the CSD's recent dealings.

Kamooko, Placeoderms:

The welcome party for the Durradonians was actually quite sparse. On the tarmac stood waiting a collection of some few black cars, as well as a smattering of persons in dark suits covered in winter coats ready to escort them.

Kamooko at first glance was not a large city. The tallest buildings were rarely reaching as high as fifteen stories, and wide roads and parks dominated the space in between the many low-rise storefronts, warehouses, and residences. Off in the distance, though, on the banks of lake Kamooko it was a very different sight. The hulking, industrial outlines of cranes punctuated one of the largest naval ports in Markion. The size of the metal pieces they were lifting suggested the building of something a touch bigger than a pleasure yacht.

Of course, what caught the visitors' eyes the most were the rather eclectic mix of vehicles which their motorcade was sharing the road with. Hulking platforms, ranging anywhere from Voltstrum-brand SUVs with extra metal bolted on to military surplus APCs and IFVs rumbled along the wide, reinforced streets. As the drive wore on it because obvious that even the ordinary-appearing vehicles the dignitaries were occupying were made of heavier metal than initial appearances would suggest. Their turns were noticeably sluggish, and the sound of an exceptionally powerful engine droned incessantly for the entire ride. Once or twice an actual tank was spotted on the road, but it wasn't clear if it was a government vehicle or privately owned.

At long last, though, they came to their destination. The Turtleback Palace was not much to look at from the outside. At twelve stories high and hundreds of almost a city block across, and indeed shaped much like the shell of a turtle, the palace had originally been built in the late 19^th and early 20^th century as a proof of concept for the turtleback style of warship armour. Needless to say, walking up the stairs to the large steel double doors brought into view a completely expected motto etched above the entrance.

Armour is Good

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He walked into the restaurant, and looked around, two OSR agents were already here, one posing as staff while the other as a patron. As he spotted Mr. Wood, he walked over to his table and sat down, and spoke "Mr Woods, its a long way from Leas, it seems you have been busy." Hugo Plas was a very average looking man, and blended in well because of it, in life he was always in the background never being noticed, until an OSR trainer saw his potential. Richard Woods was the former CEO of the Baltzlager Armory(Company), which had several contracts with the Arcadian military. As the waiter walked by Hugo spoke "Mrs, can I get some water?" He turned back to Mr. Woods and spoke "I have an offer that can make you more powerful than you can ever dream."

Robert Wood, Fancy Restaurant, Himmelsdorf, the Green Union:

Wood looked up, not quite sure what to make of the man in front of him. He could only assume he was an agent of some government, but couldn't place his nationality. Still, he chuckled at the cliche he was being baited with to hide his obvious curiosity and waved for his counterpart across the table to continue.

"I can dream quite a lot. But by all means, continue."

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He walked into the restaurant, and looked around, two OSR agents were already here, one posing as staff while the other as a patron. As he spotted Mr. Wood, he walked over to his table and sat down, and spoke "Mr Woods, its a long way from Leas, it seems you have been busy." Hugo Plas was a very average looking man, and blended in well because of it, in life he was always in the background never being noticed, until an OSR trainer saw his potential. Richard Woods was the former CEO of the Baltzlager Armory(Company), which had several contracts with the Arcadian military. As the waiter walked by Hugo spoke "Mrs, can I get some water?" He turned back to Mr. Woods and spoke "I have an offer that can make you more powerful than you can ever dream."

Robert Wood, Fancy Restaurant, Himmelsdorf, the Green Union:

Wood looked up, not quite sure what to make of the man in front of him. He could only assume he was an agent of some government, but couldn't place his nationality. Still, he chuckled at the cliche he was being baited with to hide his obvious curiosity and waved for his counterpart across the table to continue.

"I can dream quite a lot. But by all means, continue."

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He picked up his glass of water and took a sip, and spoke "Things are going to change and we are offering you a chance in the future, the Vilhala backed government is on a sinking ship, and we have offered you a life boat. Call ths number if you want that chance at the future." As he finished he put his card on the table and walked out of the dining establishment.


Mont Coulon, NGU

The attack on the firewall was minutes away. Arcadian cyber warfare specialists had hijacked C-Sec frequencies to set off false alarms outside of the city drawing out S-Sec forces, and broadcast-ed a S-Sec troop movement making it seems as the perfect opportunity to attack when in reality it would lead to a long drawn out firefight. As the firefight erupted where the ARCC attacked a S-Sec supply depot, the plan was put into action where 38 agents all former Loyalist Armed Forces moved on the building. Thier goal was simple upload a virus and bring down the firewall. They were given a virus by Arcadian forces in Uristan. When they brought the firewall down C-Sec swarmed the building killing 20 of th 38, only two would make it back to Urlistan, while the other surviving 8 would join rebel groups. The agents were promised that thier families back in Urlistan would be payed for thier service and more police attention in case of threats on a civilian populace. The Firewall was now down.

OOC: The Green Union agreed with this post

[Republic of Altos and Stratis]

OOC: Update ill write a post sometime this week or next week life has just prevented me from writing a post. and I've been busy with other stuff as well.
/skip

[The Green Union]

OOC: Update ill write a post sometime this week or next week life has just prevented me from writing a post. and I've been busy with other stuff as well.
/skip

OOC: No worries at all. Real life always comes first, and this RP is going to be a tedious, drawn out insurgency anyway.

[Durradon]

Kamooko, Capital of Placeoderms

Stepping out of the plane, the Confederate emissaries we somewhat underwhelmed by the sight of Kamooko itself. Rynnmouth had hundreds of towers stretching into the sky with many intricate designs of glass and steel, with stone buildings being overshadowed by their new counterparts. However the sight of Placeodermic armour made the men stare in awe at it's might. KP representatives quickly met with the Durradonians, making sureof their safe flight and showing them the way to their transport, no doubt well-armoured, even if not a tank. Talks would happen soon, however the intention of such talks were unbeknownst to the curious visitors, they only knew that it had something to do with the CSD's recent dealings.

Kamooko, Placeoderms:

The welcome party for the Durradonians was actually quite sparse. On the tarmac stood waiting a collection of some few black cars, as well as a smattering of persons in dark suits covered in winter coats ready to escort them.

Kamooko at first glance was not a large city. The tallest buildings were rarely reaching as high as fifteen stories, and wide roads and parks dominated the space in between the many low-rise storefronts, warehouses, and residences. Off in the distance, though, on the banks of lake Kamooko it was a very different sight. The hulking, industrial outlines of cranes punctuated one of the largest naval ports in Markion. The size of the metal pieces they were lifting suggested the building of something a touch bigger than a pleasure yacht.

Of course, what caught the visitors' eyes the most were the rather eclectic mix of vehicles which their motorcade was sharing the road with. Hulking platforms, ranging anywhere from Voltstrum-brand SUVs with extra metal bolted on to military surplus APCs and IFVs rumbled along the wide, reinforced streets. As the drive wore on it because obvious that even the ordinary-appearing vehicles the dignitaries were occupying were made of heavier metal than initial appearances would suggest. Their turns were noticeably sluggish, and the sound of an exceptionally powerful engine droned incessantly for the entire ride. Once or twice an actual tank was spotted on the road, but it wasn't clear if it was a government vehicle or privately owned.

At long last, though, they came to their destination. The Turtleback Palace was not much to look at from the outside. At twelve stories high and hundreds of almost a city block across, and indeed shaped much like the shell of a turtle, the palace had originally been built in the late 19^th and early 20^th century as a proof of concept for the turtleback style of warship armour. Needless to say, walking up the stairs to the large steel double doors brought into view a completely expected motto etched above the entrance.

Armour is Good

Kamooko, Placeoderms
Foreign Secretary Shimazu Renn

Kamooko was a strange place to Renn, it was not often she would go to KP nations, so she would always have to readjust to the old familiar style that reminded her of the old Confederacy, remincent of the Confederate Liberation Wars era. It was grand, orderly and full of ornamentation. Beautiful glass chandeliers hung from the tall ceiling that was decorated with stunning patterns while excellently carved and marbleized wooden chairs and tables funished the bright interior. Although, the strange thing was there were little to no windows. Renn guessed this was because the Placeodermsians saw windows as structural weaknesses. Even so those same masterfully crafted crystal glass chandeliers made the place bright even in day time, however Renn liked this as it kept the place feeling warm and alive during this terrible winter.

The enchanted Foreign Secretary did not realise how much she had been gawking at the building's design as one of the Placeodermsian officials directed her towards an elevator which was strangely modern for such an old building. She made her way towards it with indigenious staring and chatting away, obviously intrigued by situation. The Group went down a few stories in the elavator and after a short walk they entered a conference room, passing a few armed guards armed with submachine guns, possibly of Placeodermic make. Renn was always annoyed that she had to have guards in foreign contries rather than be able to defend herself with her MH9 which she always conceal carried back home in the Confederacy.

A short while passed with small talk and waiting until everyone was seated.

[The Green Union]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He picked up his glass of water and took a sip, and spoke "Things are going to change and we are offering you a chance in the future, the Vilhala backed government is on a sinking ship, and we have offered you a life boat. Call ths number if you want that chance at the future." As he finished he put his card on the table and walked out of the dining establishment.

Robert Wood, Fancy Restaurant, Himmelsdorf, the Green Union:

Mr. Wood looked on with obvious shock as the mysterious man left. Robert was a businessman, and not used to being on the receiving end of these kinds of power plays. He watched as the man left, then sat still as the food in front of him went cold. At length the man studied the card he had been given, slowly slipping it into his wallet. He wouldn't action this anytime soon, but something said he would want to leave the option open for the future.

Mont Coulon, NGU

The attack on the firewall was minutes away. Arcadian cyber warfare specialists had hijacked C-Sec frequencies to set off false alarms outside of the city drawing out S-Sec forces, and broadcast-ed a S-Sec troop movement making it seems as the perfect opportunity to attack when in reality it would lead to a long drawn out firefight. As the firefight erupted where the ARCC attacked a S-Sec supply depot, the plan was put into action where 38 agents all former Loyalist Armed Forces moved on the building. Thier goal was simple upload a virus and bring down the firewall. They were given a virus by Arcadian forces in Uristan. When they brought the firewall down C-Sec swarmed the building killing 20 of th 38, only two would make it back to Urlistan, while the other surviving 8 would join rebel groups. The agents were promised that thier families back in Urlistan would be payed for thier service and more police attention in case of threats on a civilian populace. The Firewall was now down.

OOC: The Green Union agreed with this post

OOC: Assuming GRA has actioned the second part of his plan which he told me would provide the GU with non-restricted internet from Arcadian sources, the following will make sense.

IC: The CGU has today reported an attack which took place on a government internet server centre in Mont Coulon. ARCC rebels overran the facility and brought down key parts of the mainframe, but C-Sec forces quickly counterattacked and killed or captured the majority of the rebels. However, internet in the Green Union will be disrupted for some time.

Surprisingly for the CGU, though, the ARCC had a rebuttal. From their hidden bases in Mont Coulon the rebel group denied responsibility for the attack. They released recordings from some escaped attackers whom had found their way to ARCC safehouses saying that they has been former captured PAR members used by the Arcadian administration in Urlistan to carry out the assault. These claims are not substantiated.

However, a shift has taken place. From all across the Green Union dissenting media is going online showing a narrative contrary to the CGU's reports of the situation in the country. Cell phone footage of citizens begging for food, ARF and ARCC rebels stockpiling weapons, and C-Sec convoys being struck by remotely detonated IEDs are flooding the internet. The CGU has gone to claim these are fake images being spread by the GRA, and has reiterated past statements that the Green Union is all but stabilized and the terrorist groups on the verge of total destruction.

Some of the most widely circulated images, ARCC rebels engage C-Sec in Mont Coulon

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He looked out the window and snow fell to the ground, and he watched the non-government news networks that have propped up laughing. They were calling Mr. Woods again, and the call was made so it would look like he was calling from Karalax. As Mr. Woods picked up and spoke "Hello who is this." Hugo spoke "The ship is sinking, and we can help you. Come to the docks at Himmelsdorf at 12pm. If you have C-sec following you we will make sure you dont walk out alive, and I almost forgot a interesting bill has hit Arcadian parliament that would freeze your assets to determine if your a war criminal or not, and if you dont show we will make sure you get convicted and your assets gone."

Casatolo, Arcadia

Chancellor Jule Beaulne

She stood up to the podium, and she spoke "Today the situation in the Green Union, has surfaced to the light, thanks to the bravery of loyalist agents in the occupied nation of our former ally."She paused and she continued "As of now the CUP in partnership with the AFP, and the SDP are moving to try Arcadian nationals involved in the Congress of the Green Union, and if found guilty of war crimes or crimes against the peace will be charged with the fullest extent of the law. We are currently freezing the assets of those involved who are pending investigation. We are also willing to offer Arcadian intelligence reports of the situation to members of the KP. The plight of the people in the Green Union can not be hidden any longer. We urge the Congress of the Green Union to right these wrongs or more diplomatic actions will be taken. And today following these events the Arcadian Empire is willing to cooperate in evicting the Congress of the Green Union, with the KP And with Defense Minister McHale retiring our new Defense Minister will be announced within the coming days."

[The Green Union]

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU
Sergeant Samson Carwin

The VTOLs landed in their bays and emptied into the base. The Arcadians were sedated without knowledge and taken below ground and put in Durradonian holding blocks in addition to shackles on their arms and legs, under armed guard. The young Aras was taken to Samson's quaters, a small room for miners with a bed and table but not much else. C-Sec could arrive anytime so Samson and the mercenaries had to come up with something quick. Samson made his way to his room with fresh clothes and more miscellaneous items. He opened the door.

"Right then... Eule? Right? We've got to act quick and I'm sure you'll agree. C-sec is coming and they knew we were at the I know it's not entirely savoury, but you'll need to pretend to be someone else. Can you do that for me?"

Eule, Coldhand Mine, Arasland:

Things had moved so fast. As a girl who had only ever glimpsed the twin otters and DC-3s which brought supplies to the nearest village, she had suddenly been bundled into a paramilitary VTOL and flown with a bay full of soldiers. For an Aras who's life had known no building bigger than a tent or portable shelter, the transition to a sprawling mining facility should have been a shock.

Eule knew all this, and yet she still found it difficult to be amazed at her surroundings. She just sat down in the middle of the bed, legs crossed and staring into her lap. In her mind the events of that day (or was it yesterday?) were playing on a loop, and as visible as the mental scarring were those on her clothes. Still the streaks of oil and soot mixed with burn marks and rips which stayed on her skin and clothes. Her hair was a tangle of ash, as the girl's scarf and hood had come loose in the confusion of the camp. She still reeked of burned gasoline.

But in typical Aras fashion Eule just looked up from whatever she was fiddling with in her hands and tried to focus on Samson, a man who at least she recognized and could now put a name to.

"What do you need me to do?"

SrA. Harry Black, Flax-Core™ Fighter Squadron, High above the GU Arctic:

The pursuit was hours old now, but Black's flight was going to be doing the job they had been given no matter how boring it was. They had followed the two VTOLs they had observed at the camp all the way to this Durradonian corporate mine, and were now circling to make sure nobody left before ground forces arrived. The fighters had been informed that an electronic warfare plane would be en-route to jam any transmissions coming out of the mine, and he had been informed there was even talk of an AC-130 potentially being brought in.

To the flight leader it seemed all a little bit over the top. But at the same time Harry knew that, as the one who had ordered the bombing of that camp, if news got out the blame would be squarely on his shoulders.

Cpt. Ben Smith, C-Sec Land Security, Coldhand Mine, Arasland

The soldiers checked their weapons as the VTOL began descending towards the target location, having just received permission from the mine to land on their property. They didn't know much about what they would find, only that they needed to locate and detain anyone who came in on the last two aircraft, for concerns of them leaking information vital to national security. Ben hadn't been told what the leak might be; that was need-to-know.

There was a clatter of metal as the troops hefted their equipment with the VTOL setting down. The personnel of the mine would no doubt be surprised by their means of arrival, since instead of the normal 1990s-era repainted helicopters of the old government this team was touching down on a shiny new four-rotor VTOL transport of Arcadian design. Whether it was an actual AAF-sourced aircraft or a Vilhalan knock-off wasn't something the team cared about.

The troops, thirty in all, were also atypical of C-Sec. Most of them were elite Vilhalan contractors from units specializing in mobile search-and-destroy, and the few locals among them were a cut above the normal cannon fodder, chosen for their combat prowess and loyalty to the new regime (and ability to speak English). All had been given priority for outfitting with the new Durradonian Mortuk rifles, and even had the body armour usually reserved for PMC troops. The Vilhalan mercenaries in the craft similarly readied their weapons, in Smith's case a modified Sevevillian M4 carbine, as the wheels of the VTOL met snow.

"Alright," Smith told his troops, "tread carefully. We don't want to upset this company by shooting up their mine."

The ramp opened and the troops spread out onto the landing pad. Smith demanded to see the manager, and wanted to be delivered all persons who had arrived on the last two VTOLs. "National security", he invoked, "those people will need to come with us."

If C-Sec had a special forces, they had just landed in Coldhand mine.

[Kalaascovy]

Armin Jäger, Unspecified Northern Commune, Arasland:

The ARF leader clasped the captain's hand firmly. "I am aware of your country, sir. That is, if you really are from Kalaascovy." He stared deeply into the man's eyes, then looked him up and down intently. "Yes, I can believe that. You are who you say you are."

He sat down then. "In that case, you deserve to know who we are. As you are already aware, my name is Armin. Some consider me to be the leader of the Aras Revolutionary Front, but our struggle to resist the northern grasping of these oil companies is so broken that even I am not aware how many of us there may be. This commune is probably the largest civilian centre we control, and we have been using it as our main weapons cache and headquarters. We also have a large number of Aras refugees, victims of the congress' campaign of commune razing."

Some of Jäger's supporters were shifting uncomfortably now, but the man seemed confident spilling their secrets. "We came here some months ago with inside help. The security forces use Green Union citizens as their cannon fodder, and most would rather turn a blind eye than fight against us. We were fortunate in that this place did not have Vilhalan officers on-site, and the troops stationed here have been pretending that nothing is wrong ever since. I see you've met Comrade Anne. She was one of the soldiers, and we are forever in her debt."

The soldier by the door looked down, staring daggers at her LAF combat boots.

It would have been a tense moment, but then a sound was heard reverberating through the walls. A distant beating grew swiftly louder, until the unmistakable sound of rotors passed metres above the house.

"C-Sec helicopter," Armin Jäger noted grimly, "no doubt here for the ship." He then looked around the room at his staff and the newcomer. "I want options now, because if we can't come up with a plan then I'm going to hand the Kalaascovian crew over to the CGU to make them go away."

(Sorry for late respond, been away from computer)
The Captain coughed, but grinned "We had a back-up plan. Due to our ship ONLY having public radio, and a shit ton of uniforms. I have just to plan, but it does need you folks to hide. Make this place look like a ghost town. They can only HEAR, but they cannot SEE us, I could barely see this building when we entered the dock. If you don't mind..." the captain pulled a lighter from his coat pocket and a Kalaascovian Cigar with "...we could hide your entire people here. So so so many Imperial uniforms for if we ever got caught. Plus we were technically supposed to change them daily if we got forced to burn our identities, which we did, most of us anyway."

"This can work only if you hide almost all traces of yourself, you don't have to bury it or burn it, but make it not visible. That flag needs to be hidden. Our cover-up story is Imperials turned Mercenaries. I would be lying if I said there wasn't a bounty on your head Armin." The captain lit the cigar and grabbed a second one, offering it to Armin. "Also sorry for the cigar, I'm a cigarette smoker myself but I need the cigar since Vladimir said that's what most mercenaries he had to hire smoked. Now, you're a recognizable face Armin and probably Comrade Anne as well. I can go over the radio on my ship for public channels and state we're mercenaries, you know the whole shibang and say this place was abandoned and doesn't look like its been used in years. We're looking for you, blah blah blah, you get the deal. Just make sure you don't have any flags waving or they WILL return. I'd probably suggest you get some unrecognized faces get dressed up as some of my Imperial Crew." The captain laughs at the words. "It's also good you probably hide them in the buildings sweeping the buildings since if something is supposed is going to happen to me or my crew, it's best it doesn't affect you as well. If need-be that will make things easier for if we need to smuggle you two out.

[The Green Union]

An attack has taken place today on a freight train in the Cartier pass, a key choke point in rail lines through the Red Mountains (Red Mountain Range) between Calendôr and the Green Union's East coast. According to testimony from survivors, the train had been loaded primarily with products from Durradonian corporate ships making landfall near Grünwald and set off West towards the GU heartlands. The trip went smoothly until the Cartier pass, when suddenly the train came under small arms fire from the cliffs above.

An image of the Cartier Pass rail lines near where the attack took place

While attempting to run the ambush, the engine struck a pile of boulders and was brought to a stop. During the ensuing firefight three private military contractors were killed and several other mercenaries and civilians wounded, mostly by long range rifle fire. The attackers, having stopped the train on a considerable incline, were able to allow the rearmost cars to roll free by simply unhooking them. It was in this way that five cars, each carrying one shipping container, were lost.

The train containers were later recovered some ways off by Congressional Security airlifted in from Grünwald, but were found to have been looted by a large group which had seemingly been waiting at the location. Three of these cars had been containing food products, but two were shipping Mortuk assault rifles destined for C-Sec. An estimated five hundred of the rifles are now missing.

No bodies of the attackers were recovered, though the mercenaries protecting the train collectively claim to have observed the deaths of at least twelve. How these corpses may have been removed from the scene is the core of much speculation, and authorities are in the process of searching both the snow drifts near the sight and the bottom of the cliff below. The assailants were described as wearing red armbands and mostly operating bolt action rifles, though at least one contractor says a man was shooting at him with a fast-firing pistol.

The CGU has condemned the ARF for this act of violence, though the rebel group has gone online to say it was not involved. Government officials have also said that the Durradonian companies moving their goods are partly responsible, since they did not provide enough security to deter the attack. Flax-Core™, the Vilhalan corporation now owning the rail lines through the Red Mountains, has also said the Durradonians did not exercise their due diligence to protect Flax-Core™ property. Some sources have floated the idea of splitting the cost of damages with the Durradonians.

At least one native of the CSD, a manager of the Stet Mining Corporation, was on the train during the attack. He was not injured.

[The Green Union]

Kamooko, Placeoderms
Foreign Secretary Shimazu Renn

Kamooko was a strange place to Renn, it was not often she would go to KP nations, so she would always have to readjust to the old familiar style that reminded her of the old Confederacy, remincent of the Confederate Liberation Wars era. It was grand, orderly and full of ornamentation. Beautiful glass chandeliers hung from the tall ceiling that was decorated with stunning patterns while excellently carved and marbleized wooden chairs and tables funished the bright interior. Although, the strange thing was there were little to no windows. Renn guessed this was because the Placeodermsians saw windows as structural weaknesses. Even so those same masterfully crafted crystal glass chandeliers made the place bright even in day time, however Renn liked this as it kept the place feeling warm and alive during this terrible winter.

The enchanted Foreign Secretary did not realise how much she had been gawking at the building's design as one of the Placeodermsian officials directed her towards an elevator which was strangely modern for such an old building. She made her way towards it with indigenious staring and chatting away, obviously intrigued by situation. The Group went down a few stories in the elavator and after a short walk they entered a conference room, passing a few armed guards armed with submachine guns, possibly of Placeodermic make. Renn was always annoyed that she had to have guards in foreign contries rather than be able to defend herself with her MH9 which she always conceal carried back home in the Confederacy.

A short while passed with small talk and waiting until everyone was seated.

The conference was to be held around a large oak table inlaid with complex designs of metal, depicting everything from ancient Kendorian armies to the building of the original Victorian city of Kamooko to the lifecycle of a Dunkleosteus. But besides this table, which was spectacular, the room was decidedly bare. The white walls were an unadorned plaster, leaving little else to look at while the Durradonians mixed with the various Kamooko Pact dignitaries. Mostly there were exiled Green Union members of Parliament, who spoke a whole lot but really said nothing with their friendly, too-happy voices as they cycled in and out with no seeming order.

One group, though, was there to stay. The leaders of the PGU's new bipartisan coalition "government" were a small, embattled group of seasoned politicians running on little more than coffee and vending machine sandwiches. The emissaries would indeed have been hard pressed to recognize such familiar faces as the Green Union's previous foreign affairs minister, Delvin Sólymos, or the last prime minister and former leader of the Workers Party of the Green Union, Charlotte Fried, if the Loyalists hadn't washed their faces in an office sink and put on clean shirts less than an hour before.

Yet despite all these big names, the most imposing presence in the room was a little man in a wheelchair. Pierre Mackenzie, was rolled into the room by his Worker's Party counterpart and parked at the table with a saline drip next to him. The disgraced final leader of the Parti Liberal was not kind on the eyes, having suffered the loss of both legs and third degree burns over most of his torso during the attack. His federal Parti Liberal had been meeting all in one North wing room of the Kamooko Pact headquarters when it happened; one of the exact ones struck by the plane.

Mackenzie sat upright and proud, the perfect image of a stoic gentleman, though it was clear the effort was hurting him immensely. He remained like this, making talk with the Durradonians as if nothing was wrong, but when he thought nobody was looking his eyes seared with fiery emotion; whether pain, anger, or something else it was hard to tell.

At long last, though, the chatter settled down and the serious discussion began. Soon the pleasantries were out of the way, and the very first thing to happen once everyone was gathered around the rather remarkable boardroom table was that Mrs. Fried, an old woman who was no small bit intimidating with her upright demeanor and cold eyes, laid out the exact reasons they were all there.

"My friends," she began, "I hope you will understand that this parliament is very concerned with the news we have been receiving about your arms deals with the so-called Congress of the Green Union. This is a regime which stands all but alone in the world, which only serves to give a face of order to the lawless gold rush which has taken hold in a country we care deeply about. You as well as anyone must know that as soon as investment in the GU is no longer desirable the Congress will fall."

The woman paused to dig in her briefcase, taking her time without a care how much anyone waited. Charlotte Fried moved with the grace of someone who no longer needed to prove anything to anyone, and soon produced a set of documents which she placed facing the Durradonians. It was a full copy of the arms deal between CSD companies and the CGU, complete with signatures.

"Please don't get the wrong idea. We have no spies north of the border, but the CGU doesn't exactly run a tight ship. They still rely on many of our Parliament's workers to function. Most of the clerks and aides have no loyalty to the new republic."

A man to Fried's left, a large man by the name of Muhammad Hussein who before the war had been the head of the Progressive Conservative Party, sought to clarify. "This is not a threat. On the contrary, we brought you here to ask if your government would consider standing with us even if your nation's companies are free to have no loyalty. The Kamooko Pact is in a process of rearming the remnants of the Loyalist Armed Forces and combining them with forces from Placeoderms and Albatan, but the different equipment is a nightmare and there isn't enough to go around. We were thinking . . ."

The big man took a breath, as if still nervous about the implications of what he was about to say, "We were hoping that if the Confederate States of Durradon helped the Kamooko Pact to jointly develop and supply equipment for our alliance, then the CSD may be interested in joining the KP as a member state."

[The Green Union]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

He looked out the window and snow fell to the ground, and he watched the non-government news networks that have propped up laughing. They were calling Mr. Woods again, and the call was made so it would look like he was calling from Karalax. As Mr. Woods picked up and spoke "Hello who is this." Hugo spoke "The ship is sinking, and we can help you. Come to the docks at Himmelsdorf at 12pm. If you have C-sec following you we will make sure you dont walk out alive, and I almost forgot a interesting bill has hit Arcadian parliament that would freeze your assets to determine if your a war criminal or not, and if you dont show we will make sure you get convicted and your assets gone."

Robert Wood, Himmelsdorf Industrial Harbourfront, the Green Union:

The Arcadian board director turned Green Union congressman arrived at the grimy docks precisely on time, stepping out the back seat of his car with a slightly bewildered look on his face. Mr. Wood turned up the collar of his designer black trench coat against the lakeside chill and started forward into the maze of rusting cranes and shipping containers, not sure what he should be looking for. He suspected that the mystery man from the restaurant would find him without him needing to find them. Despite the fear which was creeping up his legs and making it hard to move forward, Robert Wood was interested in seeing what he wanted.

The port was in a sorry state. The initial Vilhalan assault on Himmelsdorf hadn't exactly been gentle to the fleet of vessels of all nationalities which had taken refuge here after war was first declared, and here dozens of ships from tankers to frigates lay rusted and sunk in their moorings, and more seemed to get dug out of the Green River every month to be added to the pile. They were blocking what had once been prime docking space, but by this point CGU politicians like Wood would rather just ignore it. It wasn't like the space they were blocking was in particularly good repair either, as the Arcadian strode beneath the collapsed form of a frozen container crane. And anything not destroyed by the war had fallen victim to the rabble, as evidenced by the tarp covered holes in walls and makeshift tents and the dumpster fires which the immaculate man gave a wide berth.

A view from the ice off the Himmelsdorf harbourfront

But by far the most imposing scenes were the ships. Their hulking, shadowy forms arched imposingly over the industrial district, wedged up against eachother in a half submerged labyrinth which stretched on for kilometres out into the frozen waters. The world of twisted, sinking iron which they formed was the stuff of nightmares for C-Sec soldiers and CGU policymakers, and it was a well known fact that criminals and rebels had made it their home.

This was not a good place.

[Durradon]

The conference was to be held around a large oak table inlaid with complex designs of metal, depicting everything from ancient Kendorian armies to the building of the original Victorian city of Kamooko to the lifecycle of a Dunkleosteus. But besides this table, which was spectacular, the room was decidedly bare. The white walls were an unadorned plaster, leaving little else to look at while the Durradonians mixed with the various Kamooko Pact dignitaries. Mostly there were exiled Green Union members of Parliament, who spoke a whole lot but really said nothing with their friendly, too-happy voices as they cycled in and out with no seeming order.

One group, though, was there to stay. The leaders of the PGU's new bipartisan coalition "government" were a small, embattled group of seasoned politicians running on little more than coffee and vending machine sandwiches. The emissaries would indeed have been hard pressed to recognize such familiar faces as the Green Union's previous foreign affairs minister, Delvin Sólymos, or the last prime minister and former leader of the Workers Party of the Green Union, Charlotte Fried, if the Loyalists hadn't washed their faces in an office sink and put on clean shirts less than an hour before.

Yet despite all these big names, the most imposing presence in the room was a little man in a wheelchair. Pierre Mackenzie, was rolled into the room by his Worker's Party counterpart and parked at the table with a saline drip next to him. The disgraced final leader of the Parti Liberal was not kind on the eyes, having suffered the loss of both legs and third degree burns over most of his torso during the attack. His federal Parti Liberal had been meeting all in one North wing room of the Kamooko Pact headquarters when it happened; one of the exact ones struck by the plane.

Mackenzie sat upright and proud, the perfect image of a stoic gentleman, though it was clear the effort was hurting him immensely. He remained like this, making talk with the Durradonians as if nothing was wrong, but when he thought nobody was looking his eyes seared with fiery emotion; whether pain, anger, or something else it was hard to tell.

At long last, though, the chatter settled down and the serious discussion began. Soon the pleasantries were out of the way, and the very first thing to happen once everyone was gathered around the rather remarkable boardroom table was that Mrs. Fried, an old woman who was no small bit intimidating with her upright demeanor and cold eyes, laid out the exact reasons they were all there.

"My friends," she began, "I hope you will understand that this parliament is very concerned with the news we have been receiving about your arms deals with the so-called Congress of the Green Union. This is a regime which stands all but alone in the world, which only serves to give a face of order to the lawless gold rush which has taken hold in a country we care deeply about. You as well as anyone must know that as soon as investment in the GU is no longer desirable the Congress will fall."

The woman paused to dig in her briefcase, taking her time without a care how much anyone waited. Charlotte Fried moved with the grace of someone who no longer needed to prove anything to anyone, and soon produced a set of documents which she placed facing the Durradonians. It was a full copy of the arms deal between CSD companies and the CGU, complete with signatures.

"Please don't get the wrong idea. We have no spies north of the border, but the CGU doesn't exactly run a tight ship. They still rely on many of our Parliament's workers to function. Most of the clerks and aides have no loyalty to the new republic."

A man to Fried's left, a large man by the name of Muhammad Hussein who before the war had been the head of the Progressive Conservative Party, sought to clarify. "This is not a threat. On the contrary, we brought you here to ask if your government would consider standing with us even if your nation's companies are free to have no loyalty. The Kamooko Pact is in a process of rearming the remnants of the Loyalist Armed Forces and combining them with forces from Placeoderms and Albatan, but the different equipment is a nightmare and there isn't enough to go around. We were thinking . . ."

The big man took a breath, as if still nervous about the implications of what he was about to say, "We were hoping that if the Confederate States of Durradon helped the Kamooko Pact to jointly develop and supply equipment for our alliance, then the CSD may be interested in joining the KP as a member state."

Kamooko, Placeoderms
Foreign Secretary Shimazu Renn

Renn sat and carefully considered her next words. Although Mrs. Fried's words shook the other Durradonian officials, she simply sat and stared. Taking a long and almost unnatural glare at all the other side of the table. She spoke.

"If you don't mind my dear, I shall start from the top." She put her hands together in front of her face occasionally pointing as she spoke, "It is not our concern of what our companies do in other countries, we do not control what they sell. If you remember, Durradonian companies were invited to new Green Union rather than accepting our arms deal. I suppose they wished to be more direct thinking they could get more out of companies than our government." the old woman put her hands down shuffling some paper and glancing at it briefly, "These papers you bring before me are signitures of private citizens of the confederacy, their agreement, not mine... it does concern me that these were procured so easily, but it is the folly of stupid people who probably should have their citizenship revoked..." she smiled, "but that's not my place to decide, is it?"

After no reply and a short pause she snapped her fingers, "Ah! But anyway," she whispered to a close-by Durradonian, "ah yes I remember, your request, quite laughable in many eyes." she said smiling and giggling a crone's laugh, "Of course I mean no disrespect but you realise who you are talking to, yes? We Durradonians have refused offer after offer to join military coalitions, trade blocs and political alliances for centuries and all of them have been denied as we will refuse to accept any rule but our own, the Durradonian people." she took a breath and frowned, "The CSD will be happy to supply weapons, training, equipment and more to supply your armies, or... remnants of armies." Renn then turned and looked at Muhammad directly in the eyes with the sting of a hornet.

"Tell me, what do the requirements of member states entail, keeping in mind I have no time for honeyed words."

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

As Mr. Woods walked down the alley, Hugo walked foward and spoke "Mr. Woods its nice of you to come." hugo then turned and said "Follow me." Hugo walked as Woods followed behind him and they moved closer to an old freighter and once there descended into the hulking ruin as they walked down the stairs Hugo asked "So where in Arcadia are you from?" He was met by quiet. As they arrived at en empty room with a table, two chairs, and a computer. Hugo stopped, and spoke "after you." Woods walked into the room and Hugo followed, and Hugo closed the door behind him, and Hugo spoke "The situation in the Green Union is getting interesting, the Arcadian government is moving to build closer alliances with the KP" Hugo soon slid a file with a news report of the new minister of defense visiting the KP. Hugo continued "All across the empire volunteers are getting ready to head across the border, and we want you to cause a split in the CGU, we want you to lead the moderates, and this militia can help you. By now you probably know who I work for ,do you want this offer, when you win you will have power and a military to defend yourselves."

GRA Today snipet

MoD. Gretchen Esser is set to meet with leading KP officials regarding the situation in the Green Union after recent news of war crimes have broke after the CGU's firewall fell just a few weeks ago. The meeting is set to be a week away.----

[The Green Union]

(Sorry for late respond, been away from computer)
The Captain coughed, but grinned "We had a back-up plan. Due to our ship ONLY having public radio, and a shit ton of uniforms. I have just to plan, but it does need you folks to hide. Make this place look like a ghost town. They can only HEAR, but they cannot SEE us, I could barely see this building when we entered the dock. If you don't mind..." the captain pulled a lighter from his coat pocket and a Kalaascovian Cigar with "...we could hide your entire people here. So so so many Imperial uniforms for if we ever got caught. Plus we were technically supposed to change them daily if we got forced to burn our identities, which we did, most of us anyway."

"This can work only if you hide almost all traces of yourself, you don't have to bury it or burn it, but make it not visible. That flag needs to be hidden. Our cover-up story is Imperials turned Mercenaries. I would be lying if I said there wasn't a bounty on your head Armin." The captain lit the cigar and grabbed a second one, offering it to Armin. "Also sorry for the cigar, I'm a cigarette smoker myself but I need the cigar since Vladimir said that's what most mercenaries he had to hire smoked. Now, you're a recognizable face Armin and probably Comrade Anne as well. I can go over the radio on my ship for public channels and state we're mercenaries, you know the whole shibang and say this place was abandoned and doesn't look like its been used in years. We're looking for you, blah blah blah, you get the deal. Just make sure you don't have any flags waving or they WILL return. I'd probably suggest you get some unrecognized faces get dressed up as some of my Imperial Crew." The captain laughs at the words. "It's also good you probably hide them in the buildings sweeping the buildings since if something is supposed is going to happen to me or my crew, it's best it doesn't affect you as well. If need-be that will make things easier for if we need to smuggle you two out.

Armin Jäger, Unspecified Northern Commune, Arasland:

As the Kalaascovian spoke lit a cigarette calmly most in the room were already hurrying to throw their coats on. They knew they had to move fast and were amazed that this newcomer could be so composed while C-Sec was making fly-bys.

Armin Jäger listened attentively to the idea, carefully considering this man's plan to cover the ARF's own escape with his own troops, and in doing so something softened in him.

"No," he said, "it's too risky. The security forces believe this is an important Northern outpost for them and if they aren't greeted by their own troops they will know something is wrong. Your sailors are already hidden in one of the outbuildings, so let's keep them there while we accommodate C-Sec. We'll tell them that it was a ghost ship, maybe convince them that it is wired to explode or something. That will prompt them not to send reinforcements while we work on a long term plan."

"Sir?" A middle aged man in the entourage inquired, "What about the Leafville?"

Jäger's face, as well as those of most in the room, fell suddenly, and the ARF leader started swearing angrily. Turning to the foreign captain he tried to explain. "Harry is an admiral with the Kamooko Pact. He helped the crew of the frigate RLS Leafville, renamed FFG-04, to mutiny during an Arctic patrol, and they've been hiding their ship with us. As soon as C-Sec sees that ship they will come swarming here."

But just as quickly as he fell into despair the man snapped back up, a gleam of determination in his eye. He snatched up his coat and started heading for the door as the sound of the security forces helicopter setting down outside reverberated through the walls, "Actually, Captain, I have an idea that may just work. But you have to tell me first how many personnel that ship of yours is built to handle, and if she can take five hundred extra."

[Durradon]

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU

Stg. Rainer Husch, 809th Irregular Forces Battalion

He awoke in a cell with his men and he looked around at where they were held. Now it was a wating game on whether they would be turned into the Vilhalans or kept in the CSD's grasp.

Eule, Coldhand Mine, Arasland:

Things had moved so fast. As a girl who had only ever glimpsed the twin otters and DC-3s which brought supplies to the nearest village, she had suddenly been bundled into a paramilitary VTOL and flown with a bay full of soldiers. For an Aras who's life had known no building bigger than a tent or portable shelter, the transition to a sprawling mining facility should have been a shock.

Eule knew all this, and yet she still found it difficult to be amazed at her surroundings. She just sat down in the middle of the bed, legs crossed and staring into her lap. In her mind the events of that day (or was it yesterday?) were playing on a loop, and as visible as the mental scarring were those on her clothes. Still the streaks of oil and soot mixed with burn marks and rips which stayed on her skin and clothes. Her hair was a tangle of ash, as the girl's scarf and hood had come loose in the confusion of the camp. She still reeked of burned gasoline.

But in typical Aras fashion Eule just looked up from whatever she was fiddling with in her hands and tried to focus on Samson, a man who at least she recognized and could now put a name to.

"What do you need me to do?"

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU
Sergeant Samson Carwin

Before the mercenaries of the Green Union arrived, Samson ordered the Aras girl to shower and scrub herself clean of the smell of fire and death. Although rushed her face was clear of dirt and her hair cut slighty to seem different, in addition to a fresh set of winter clothes, utterly different to what Eule was used to and of Durradonian design. She was told to be a local apprentice, going for job in the mining industry and recruited by Stet. Samson also told her to use a different Aras name if questioned. By this point the GU PMCs were landing, Samson and Eule had made their way to the Arcadian cells.

The Arcadians looked up, bored from waiting in the CSD's finest holding blocks. Samson left Eule outside and walked in with Quinn and Rallius.

"Equally matched wouldn't you say?" Samson said, speaking in Arcadian German, "Three Durradonians vs three Arcadian special forces? At least that's what I'm assuming you are, Eule spoke more and told us about your little attempt at recruiting hunters and foragers into an army to fight Vilhala's security forces. Of course she took her bloody time with it but what can you do when her whole family got blown up."

Samson walked up to Rainer's cell, looking at him.

"I've got a deal for you lot. Kill the Vilhalans outside and you go free. If you don't, then get comfy, because this block will become your home for however long we decide. We'll obviously help out and hit them with random fire and then blame it on terrorists, but if you're who I think you are you should have no issue, do we have a deal?"

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU
Captain Ronald Strekker

Strekker met the PMCs, surrounding them with his company standing before them waiting for questions, several armoured vehicles also surrounded the Vilhalans. Although they encircled them causually as if this was standard procedure... a convincing act. All Strekker needed to do was wait for the planes above to return to base.

[The Grande Republic 0f Arcadia]

Coldhand Mine, Arasland, CGU

Stg. Rainer Husch, 809th Irregular Forces Battalion

When the Durridonian propositioned him to take on the Vilhalans he was surprised and he spoke "So what happened to working with them. But since, I or my men are not in a position to debate, sure, we'll do it, just ensure we can take Eule back with us to make sure she is safe." He wondered what was going on to have two corporations turn against each other but then again the an caps lack leadership, what do you expect when money controls how powerful you are. But why complain when it gave them a way out and back to Arcadia

[The Green Union]

Himmelsdorf, CGU

Hugo Plas

As Mr. Woods walked down the alley, Hugo walked foward and spoke "Mr. Woods its nice of you to come." hugo then turned and said "Follow me." Hugo walked as Woods followed behind him and they moved closer to an old freighter and once there descended into the hulking ruin as they walked down the stairs Hugo asked "So where in Arcadia are you from?" He was met by quiet. As they arrived at en empty room with a table, two chairs, and a computer. Hugo stopped, and spoke "after you." Woods walked into the room and Hugo followed, and Hugo closed the door behind him, and Hugo spoke "The situation in the Green Union is getting interesting, the Arcadian government is moving to build closer alliances with the KP" Hugo soon slid a file with a news report of the new minister of defense visiting the KP. Hugo continued "All across the empire volunteers are getting ready to head across the border, and we want you to cause a split in the CGU, we want you to lead the moderates, and this militia can help you. By now you probably know who I work for ,do you want this offer, when you win you will have power and a military to defend yourselves."

Robert Wood, Abandoned Freighter, Himmelsdorf Industrial Harbourfront, the Green Union:

Mr. Wood suddenly felt cold, and for once it was not because of the cold. His bare fingers clutched at the hard steel of the table as the other man went on, but he either didn't notice or didn't care as the digits started to turn blue at the exposure.

"What you want is treason!" he almost exclaimed, "You want me to work with Communists and Islamists, and for what? So I can get found out and executed? I don't know what world you are living in, but in mine C-Sec controls Himmelsdorf and Arcadia is thousands of miles away."

There was a sudden banging somewhere in the ship, the sounds of shouting voices a long ways off and yet still very near. Then there were shots, and all was silent. Wood's breath fogged up in front of his glasses in ragged puffs, but soon he seemed to be in better control of himself.

"You'd better be able to make this worth the risk, and give me substantial evidence that my life can be protected along with my assets here and in Arcadia."

GRA Today snipet

MoD. Gretchen Esser is set to meet with leading KP officials regarding the situation in the Green Union after recent news of war crimes have broke after the CGU's firewall fell just a few weeks ago. The meeting is set to be a week away.----

The Kamooko Pact headquarters in Placeoderms has confirmed that it will be facilitating a meeting at the GRA's request between several key officials of the alliance and the staff of the Arcadian Minister of Defence. The KP stated that it agreed to the meeting after an agreement with the GRA that the Arcadians would not operate large combat vessels (larger than destroyers) in Urlistan waters without first receiving permission from the KP.

The CGU has unilaterally condemned the GRA's caving to the wills of the Communist Globalist organization known as the Kamooko Pact, saying that it is yet another example of the Arcadian Empire's Jihad against the free world (in this case by forming a bloc between terrorist states bordering the Green Union). In particular Congress objected to the role of exiled PGU members in preliminary talks, disappointed and alarmed that Arcadia is lending these terrorists credibility by negotiating with them.

C-Sec has vowed to step up security on the border between the Green Union's two remaining free states and the occupied nation of Urlistan. At least twenty additional tanks and forty other IFVs are projected to be acquired mainly from Vilhalan sources.

[Sevevill]

LFN. New LFN City Building.

Comrade Koleshi. New LFN. LFN City Building.
He stood on the street. A AK47 tucked in under his trench coat. Waiting for a convoy to arrive. Him and his comrades were stationd all throughout the city ready to avenge Friend No. 1 form the capitalist scum. He was waiting for two Silver Suburban Trucks to approach. Inside were some of the original adopters of Sevevills Capitalism. They were marked to be killed. Sevevill had been backing out of their citys due to the NLFNA's takeover of patrolling the streets and the newly formed Police. He caught two Suburbans out of the corner of his eye as they merged out of traffic in unison. Behind them was a ATT with the Sevillian flag painted on the side... No worry. Just wait until the Marines were out of the picture. Marines dismounted and cleared a path around the rear doors of the suburban. Two NLFNA soldiers walked around and opened the doors. Four traitors stepped out of the cars. He moved up a little bit as they walked up to each other and talked a little. The Sevevill marines had started to draw a crowd but no use. He would put them on display. He removed his riffle form his coat and aimed in the direction of the men.
"FOR FRIEND 1" He yelled as he fired the gun twards the suburbans. He saw one of the NLFNA soldiers fall and two of the traitors duck for cover around the suburbans as the other two fly to the ground. A NLFNA soldier raised his M4 and shot a single shot in his direction.

Lt. Kyle Connoray. 54th Infantry 7th Marines.
He looked up twards where the single NLFNA soldier had shot. A man was laying on the ground smoking Ak47 on the ground.
"Get them inside. Call Medivac right now!" He yelled at two soldiers who ran to help the two standing members. He was worried about a another potential terrorist. He scanned the crouds looking for someone else dressed like the mistary man. Sevevill had developed the NLFN into something big... Something better than ever before. It looked like Sevevill and some of their citys rivaled those of Arcadia and Sevevill. Although there was always a slight danger of something of this nature happening.

Liberation Front. Terrorists started by the Friend No.1 at the start of his downfall that have been in hiding in the LFN
The LF or Liberation front is a group of radicals led by the famed communist Demitri Devikov the new sponsor of the newly rising front. He had gatherd some of the last supporters of the original Communist LFN that had not been eradicated by the horrible Sevevill Marines and the NLFN group. He had guns form the black market.

Demitir Devikov. Liberation Front Leader. Camp in the countrey side of LFN. Former FOB used by the GU in the first LFN invasion.
"They will know we are here. We phoned the leaders of the big newspapers and claimed responsibility for the death of two people. One very important person. We will have to step up our game and go somewhere... More well operational. Hitting Sevevill or the NLFN is worthless at this point. Sevevill soldiers are all over lower Markion." He said sternly to his advisors.
"We could move down into Anavokia. It would be less suspicious for our operatives to move form country to country."
"No... Sevevill is still too close. We need to establish a propper organization but we need turmoil to flourish."
"Sir what about the Former Green Union. They are completly divided and it would not be hard to slip in. We distract the world and move soldiers into the GU. We could attack the NLFN Arcadia and Sevevill on the same day turning all attention to the attacks. Huge bombs perhaps and leave some soldiers here for Sevevill to kill or capture with one to say he is the leader. They think they win. We lay dorment in the Green Union until it is our time to massively rebuild our army." Said his head general Marcus Kublic.
"I like your idea. Start drafting a plan to attack Arcadia and Sevevill. It has to be big though."