A Communist Conspiracy in a Tropical Paradise [IC][OPEN]

[Allanea]

“Thank you for your generosity, General.” – said Vaughan, as he and Petrenko sat down. “So if I may, just a brief review of what we’re here to do.”

“To avoid belaboring the obvious, we are between a rock and a hard place here.” – he did not say you are. – “To act, we will need to collect a significant amount of information, and it’s not plausible for us to act without it. On the other hand, time is of the essence.”

“What I propose is that we organize an operation where the principal actions will be not so much to strike at the terrorists, or at least not initially, but principally to strike at the social and infrastructure problems that make terrorism possible.”

Petrenko spoke up: “Two rabbits with one shot, if you will. On one hand we will be bringing about an economic and health improvement in the parts of your nation that are suffering form problems, on the other hand, we will be reinforcing your legitimacy. And of course, if the terrorists attack the aid teams they will look awful.”

“And of course in the second stage we will move on to educating and assisting local communities, which will hopefully make them resilient to the terrorists’ attacks. This will include both ordinary educational efforts and assistance with counterterrorist preparedness. To what extent the more…” – Vaughan paused – “Kinetic type of assistance will be needed, it will occur in this second stage. It will be in the form of small teams, which will be subordinated to your authority of course. But first we need to think about the first stage.”

[Hintuwan]

-snip-

"A splendid idea, Colonel," responded General Daclan. "Your approach aligns with our current understanding of the situation. I am hoping that your assistance will help will provide us with another perspective on this crisis, and that together we can come up with more creative solutions than that which my government has tried so far. Before we delve into the specifics, let me give you an overview of the economic and education landscape in Hintuwan. Let's begin by discussing the financial and education situation as they stand."

He gestured toward the map, pointing at regions marked with varying colors to indicate economic and educational disparities.

"Economically, we face a significant challenge. In the opening months of this insurgency, loss of investor confidence became one of our focal problems. The support given to us by a small handful of allies like Mediama and Tajijstan has reversed the situation by an ample amount. The central regions, particularly Haijing, have seen substantial development recently, mostly driven by trade, industry, and foreign investments. However, the outlying provinces, especially those bordering Van Hoorn, have struggled. These areas are the most susceptible to exploitation by extremist groups who prey on the discontent stemming from economic disparity."

Daclan's expression became more solemn as he continued, "Education, too, is a critical concern. While we have made strides in improving literacy rates and access to basic education, the quality of education varies greatly across regions. The areas influenced by extremist elements often lack proper educational infrastructure, leaving the youth vulnerable to radicalization. Thus far, President Bulalacao has approved the creation of an 'anti-terrorism' curriculum emphasizing the dangers of communist ideology. It is currently being implemented throughout the entirety of the La Paz Governorate and the Ministry of Education has made plans to extend it to other regions suffering insurgency situations as well. But overall, it has not been received well by the public. Some see it as the government imposing its ideology on the academic establishment."

He paused for a moment, allowing the gravity of the situation to sink in. "Our goal, then, is not just to deliver aid but to catalyze sustainable change. Without funding, there is little we can do but enact structural reforms and hope for the best. But as I said, our recent efforts at this can best be described as ineffectual. With unemployment continuing to rise, debt reaching historic levels, and procurement issues arising at several levels of our government operations this has admittedly proven tricky as confidence in the ability of the government to pay continues to be called into question. A small aid package could temporarily alleviate this and allow us to purchase supplies that we desperately need, especially in the more rural areas."

Daclan leaned forward, his hands clasped on the table. "But for starters, a public display of support for Hintuwan from the Allanean government would go a long way and cost next to nothing. It could help stabilize the financial markets by reassuring creditors that Allanea still considers Hintuwan a valuable ally and that they should expect business as usual."

Daclan softened his voice almost to the point of a whisper. "There is another reason that such a statement from Allanea could prove vital. We have reason to suspect foreign intervention in our affairs by the Union of Albandrite Socialist Republics and other communist powers. They certainly make no secret of it, but I am authorized by my President to tell you that we have credible information linking recent attacks to these countries."

Daclan placed a sealed brown envelope on the desk and slid it across to the Allanean officers. Above the mouth were printed, in bright red ink, the words: Eyes Only.

"The government of Hintuwan wishes to ask for your advice before our country goes public with this information. If we should at all, that is."

[Allanea]

Colonel Vaughan contemplated his answer for a few seconds, before, at last, beginning to speak.

“Sir, I’m not a specialist in every possible field that the aid will involve. My mission personally is to oversee an information gathering effort that will enable my government to fully determine the particulars. But at the core of our plan is the identification of the areas most in need of help – frankly, because we believe that the areas most in need of help are going to be the ones we can help most easily. That is to say, if one has a remote village that doesn’t have any educational facilities at all, providing any kind of education at all improves their situation a lot more than coming to a neighborhood that has a school and then dumping a few million dollars into refurbishing the classrooms there.”

“I can’t possibly comment on the structural reforms your country needs, that’s a matter for politicians and the people of Hintuwan to determine. Our job here is to identify points where we can assist. We certainly can help with the development of what you call the counterterrorist curriculum, we can work with charities back home that can provide technological support for education. In poorer areas we can work with medical assistance and providing support against contagious disease which I believe is still a problem in some parts of your country.”

”It’s very likely that the Veche will go and support a financial support package in the form of cash money and trade assistance, but once again, as a military officer I cannot make any guarantees in terms of what the legislature will, and will not, do, or how long it will take them to do it, or not do it.”

He took the envelope. ”I don’t think that there will be any problem in terms of making a statement of support, once again this will be handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but I can’t imagine it’ll take a lot of time. It will only be a formal confirmation of what is already true.”

[Hintuwan]

General Daclan nodded in understanding. "Colonel Vaughan, we appreciate the clarity and focus of your mission. All we ask is that you forward these concerns to the relevant authorities in Allanea."

"As for the structural reforms, we understand that these are decisions for our people and government to make. Your support in the development of educational curricula and technological assistance would be invaluable. I agree that the collaboration with charities for medical aid and technological support aligns with our immediate needs."

"We understand the Veche's legislative process and that timelines may vary. If you believe that there's a willingness to make a statement of support then that is already a positive step, and we trust the diplomatic channels to formalize it. Time is of the essence, as you rightly noted, and any swift action can have a profound impact on the ground. But I feel obliged to remind your government that the formal confirmation of an aid package, no matter how small, will undoubtedly reinforce the legitimacy of our efforts."

Daclan continued. "The idea of Allanean military officials meddling in Hintuwan's internal affairs is already enough to inspire revolution among the more contentious parts of our fragile democratic society. You must understand that the Hintuwani people are still deeply traumatized by the Civil War. No-one wants to see foreign soldiers in this country after all the harm that they have done over the past half-century. If we allow a few schools to go up bearing the names of Allanean donors, issues throughout the course of this operation that might necessitate a more direct approach may become easier for the people to swallow. If not through an aid package from the Allanean government, then perhaps organized through private funds. Irregardless of what does happen, this seemed to me an important point to bring up."

"In the coming days, we can help you facilitate your information-gathering efforts. Our local liaisons and intelligence networks can provide insights into specific areas requiring urgent attention, and my government will soon be inviting Allanea to become an official part of Operation Southern Sentinel. This would mean that any intelligence liaisons your government decides to send will be allowed to sit in at staff assemblies and give tactical advice to our commanders on the ground when necessary, along with our other international partners involved with the operation. Accessibility to combat operations, of course - subject to the final approval of the supreme commander of Operation Southern Sentinel, more or less goes without saying."

[Allanea]

"Thank you,” – said Colonel Vaughan. – “We’ll be on our way then. I’m going to put down everything we discussed in the form of formal conclusions and of course I’m going to loop you back in as soon as we start implementation.”

A few minutes later, the black embassy vehicle departed.

[Allanea]

Official Statement from the Free Kingdom of Allanea

The Government of the Free Kingdom of Allanea has been closely monitoring the escalating situation in the Commonwealth of Hintuwan, particularly concerning the activities of the Communist Party of Hintuwan. After thorough consideration, we are now prepared to formally declare our stance on this critical matter.

In light of the recent terrorist attacks perpetrated by the Communist Party and their ongoing efforts to erode the cherished freedoms and liberties of the Hintuwanese people, the Free Kingdom hereby extends its unequivocal support to the Commonwealth of Hintuwan. We recognize and uphold the Commonwealth's legitimate authority in safeguarding its citizens against these threats.

The Free Kingdom firmly believes that resolving this crisis necessitates a collaborative approach, involving not only sovereign states but also non-governmental organizations committed to the principles of freedom and justice. Our focus extends beyond the immediate challenge of counterterrorism; we are equally invested in addressing the root causes that enable terrorist groups to flourish.

To this end, we are proud to announce the formation of the Interministry Task Force Hintuwan. This task force will be comprised of representatives from various cabinet ministries, tasked with coordinating a comprehensive support strategy for the Hintuwanese government. This initiative will also involve forging partnerships with international governments and non-governmental organizations, leveraging our collective strengths to provide effective assistance to both the government and the people of Hintuwan.

We urge all nations currently involved in supporting Hintuwan to engage directly with the Interministry Task Force. Through coordinated efforts, we can amplify our impact and contribute more effectively to the restoration of peace and stability in the region.

The Free Kingdom of Allanea remains steadfast in its commitment to global security and the promotion of individual liberty. We stand with the Commonwealth of Hintuwan during these challenging times and are dedicated to supporting their journey towards a free, peaceful, and prosperous future.

[Hintuwan]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth of Hintuwan FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | 2024 | January 18th The Commonwealth of Hintuwan extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Free Kingdom of Allanea for its unwavering support during these challenging times. The solidarity shown by the Free Kingdom reaffirms the importance of collaborative efforts in combating the threats posed by the Communist Party of Hintuwan and strengthens the strong historical ties our two nations have as partners and allies. We welcome the establishment of the Interministry Task Force Hintuwan and appreciate the Free Kingdom's commitment to a comprehensive strategy that addresses not only the immediate security concerns but also the underlying issues contributing to the current crisis. This initiative aligns with our own efforts to create a more stable and secure environment for the people of Hintuwan. The Commonwealth is eager to engage with the Interministry Task Force and work closely with representatives from various cabinet ministries to ensure a coordinated and effective response. Collaboration with international partners is crucial in addressing the multifaceted challenges we face, and we believe that the collective strength of our nations will contribute significantly to the restoration of peace and stability in our region. We encourage other nations to follow the example set by the Free Kingdom of Allanea and engage directly with the Interministry Task Force. By fostering a united front, we can amplify our impact and accelerate the progress toward a free, peaceful, and prosperous Hintuwan. Once again, we express our deepest appreciation to the Free Kingdom of Allanea for standing with us during these trying times. Together, we are confident that we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Signed, Darin Sariwa Minister of Foreign Affairs Hintuwan

[Hintuwan]

Bulwagang Batasan
Haijing

---

The national assembly was in its fourth hour of debating Mediama's recent actions, specifically the deployment of a spy satellite to detect foreign submarine activity near Hintuwani territory. Seferino Bantug, known for his stern demeanor and passionate speeches, was visibly concerned as the proceedings dragged on and on. The flamboyant leader of the All-Hintuwani Forward Bloc (AHFB), sauntered to the podium in the Kepulungang Bayan with an air of theatricality. His reputation as a showman preceded him, and today's performance was set to be one of his grandest.

Even though Mediama had not technically violated Hintuwani sovereignty and even had explicit permission from the Hintuwani Ministry of Foreign Affairs to conduct surveillance operations, Bantug was going to frame it as an invasion of the nation's privacy in order to discredit his long-standing political rival - the Commonwealth President.

"Ladies and gentlemen of this esteemed assembly," Bantug began, his voice booming with theatrical flair, "we gather here today not merely to discuss a diplomatic hiccup, but a glaring failure of leadership – a failure that has left our shores vulnerable to the whims of our so-called allies!"

He paused dramatically, letting the weight of his words hang in the air before launching his verbal onslaught. "What a spectacle we have become! A nation that allows foreign submarines to play hide-and-seek in our very backyard, while the President sits idly by, twiddling his thumbs in the Palace of Indifference!"

Gasps and whispers swept through the assembly as Bantug continued his verbal acrobatics. "Oh, but it gets better, my esteemed colleagues. Our President, the master of laissez-faire diplomacy, has allowed our neighbor to become the director of a submarine drama without even informing us, the supporting cast!"

A few members chuckled nervously, unsure whether to be entertained or offended by Bantug's theatrical critique. The opposition leader, however, reveled in the attention.

"And now, the grand reveal!" Bantug declared, pointing an accusatory finger at an imaginary culprit. "Mediama, with all the subtlety of an elephant in a porcelain shop, has traipsed through our waters with their eye from the sky like it's a stroll in the park. And what does our esteemed leader do? Applaud their audacity from the comfort of his presidential throne!"

He paced back and forth, his gestures punctuating each pointed remark. "I propose, dear colleagues, that we rename our President the Maestro of Mismanagement, the Sultan of Surrender, for orchestrating a symphony of diplomatic incompetence!"

The assembly erupted into a mix of laughter and gasps as Bantug, the master showman, continued to turn the parliamentary floor into his own theatrical stage. The debate had transformed into a spectacle, with Bantug stealing the spotlight and leaving a lasting impression on the proceedings. MPs from both the President's party - the League of Christian-Muslim Constitutionalists (LCMC), and even the Liberal Party of Hintuwan (LPH), did everything they could to soften the blow dealt by the AHFB or call Bantug out for his out-of-order behavior. Some urged the assembly to focus on the real matter at hand, such as actually finding the nation responsible, but most remained silent.

But in the end, it was all useless to the cause of actually suppressing the insurgency. The investigative committee, stacked mostly with MPs from the AHFB, discovered nothing that the government didn't already know. There were many suspicions as to who was behind the submarine plot but the evidence remained inconclusive. Politically, Bantug was triumphant in humiliating the President and blaming the LCMC for intensifying the crisis with their ineffectual solutions. Newspapers the following morning would come to refer to the conflict with two words alone:

Bulalacao's War.

[Allanea]

From: Colonel Stephen Vaughan, Team Lead, Interministry Task Force Hintuwan
To: The Minister of Health, Hintuwan
CC: The Ministries of Agriculture and Environmental Protection

Dear friends!
I am pleased to inform you that the Interministry Task Force is already preparing to hit the ground running and discuss a range of issues that are related to addressing structural problems within Hintuwan, as well as providing our partners with a range of tools to address these problems. Here in this letter I would like to address the matter of health if I may.

To address the problem of contagious disease in Hintuwan more directly, I propose the following:

(1) Please provide ITF Hintuwan with statistical information regarding the spread of key tropical and general contagious diseases.

(2) Please provide ITF Hintuwan with information regarding the principal infrastructure available for storage of vaccine material in refrigerated storage. We will provide also temporary refrigerated storage containers to be able to deliver vaccines to remote localities, but our medical personnel inform me in the strongest terms that it is the refrigerated storage facilities which will form strongpoints, so to speak, of the vaccination campaign.

(3) In addition, we would like to have a clear of understanding of the hierarchy governing pest control operations in Hintuwan – is it under the Ministry of Health or under Agriculture? The Free Kingdom Emergency Response Command is willing to commence airlifts of pesticides, biological countermosquito armaments, and other items, as long as we can figure out how to do it properly and legally.

(4) To fully control these insects long term, it is necessary to also have a coordination with the Ministry for Environmental Protection.

(5) The Free Kingdom Ministry of War is interested in immediately delivering, by defense airlift, several hundred thousand portions of personal mosquito repellent and mosquito nets.

To summarize the previous development, we are currently working towards assisting you with contagious diseases generally and mosquitoborne diseases more particularly, but we are entirely able to change course based on the feedback provided by stakeholders within Hintuwan.

We are also interested in learning more about problems your ministries face so we can move forward on assisting you more directly with an aim towards resolving your needs, and avoid getting caught in the trap of assisting with needs only imagined by us.

Thank you for your attention and hospitality.
Yours, Stephen.

[Allanea]

From: Colonel Stephen Vaughan, Team Lead, Interministry Task Force Hintuwan
To: General Parasaligan Daclan, Ministry of Defense, Hintuwan

Dear General!

To further our mutual goals, I would like to propose assigning a permanent consultant presence in the form of a junior military Attache, formally my subordinate, at F.O.B. Mangalagar, or present otherwise as necessary. This person will observe your nation’s operational practices more directly, and report based on their observation to ITF Hintuwan, and serve as a culturally-aware liaison to communicate ideas and suggestions from the Free Kingdom’s government back to people on the ground.

Meanwhile, I have made arrangements so that high-resolution satellite photograph, radar scans, satellite-based SIGINT and other such items shall be relayed directly to the Ministry of Defense in Haijing via encrypted files, this being the swiftest method we can provide you with assistance. It would be ideal if your relevant officers would communicate back with more in-depth information in terms of what areas should be prioritized for satellite photography and monitoring.

Thank you for your attention and hospitality.
Yours, Stephen.

[Socialist Gestachia]

Headquarters of the Communist Party of Hintuwan

---

"Alright, and now this is the firing pin." An MSIIS agent was describing the workings of the J7 to several Hintuwani soldiers, suddenly another MSIIS agent walked in, "The next radio broadcast from HQ will be broadcasted soon, we need you in the radio room," "Alight, take over."

The MSIIS agent walked over to the radio room, "alright we are going to get something." "Yup, you came just in time." The agent wrote down what was coming out of the headset.

"You guys are in luck, there is a small Gestachian vessel coming with small amount of advisors, volunteers, and weapons. It will be here in 3 days, we should meet them at these coordinates. There will also be another broadcast tomorrow at the same time, but I trust you can handle that, I'll decode it once it comes." /snip

[Hintuwan]

Van Hoorn

---

Bagtas Santos, son of Maria Santos, woke up to the faint sounds of distant traffic and muted conversations filtering through his bedroom window. The dawn light painted his room with a soft glow, heralding the beginning of another day in the tumultuous city of Van Hoorn.

His morning routine had become more intricate with the implementation of the deradicalization curriculum. As he stepped into the bathroom, Bagtas glanced at the newspaper on the counter. The headlines were filled with political strife, protests, and the ongoing clashes between various factions. It was a stark reminder of the challenges his city faced.

After a quick breakfast of Pordhesian sardines and pandesal, Bagtas made his way to school. The streets were crowded with people rushing to their destinations, their faces reflecting a mix of determination and weariness. Van Hoorn had changed, and so had its people.

At school, Bagtas navigated through an atmosphere charged with ideological tension. The deradicalization curriculum had sparked debates among students and teachers alike. Bagtas, caught in the crossfire, found himself carefully choosing his words to avoid unnecessary confrontations.

In the classroom, lessons unfolded with an ideological undertone. History classes now carried narratives that seemed to glorify certain perspectives while downplaying others. Bagtas, known for his thoughtful demeanor, found himself silently questioning the information presented.

---

"What was the name of the KBM's fortress, at the foot of Mt. Suko Batara?"

Bagtas awoke from his slumber to find the teacher looking directly at him from the front of the class.

"Uh, F-fuerza de la Libertad, Sir."

"Faro de la Libertad. Our ancestors did not only consider themselves to be a fortress protecting the Hintuwani people but a lighthouse for the ideals of the revolution to shine on every island of our archipelago," retorted the teacher slyly.

"Y-yes, sir," responded Bagtas.

"Tell me, Bagtas, are you a communist?"

The teacher shot Bagtas a raised eyebrow as the class looked attentively at the escalating exchange between the two.

"N-no, Sir. Just because I don't know the answer, d-doesn't mean I'm a communist, Sir."

The teacher crossed his arms.

"Hmph," he let out before turning to the rest of the room. "Remember class: there is always a danger of latent communism in a nation whose ideology is infirm. Each of you should examine your beliefs, and promptly ensure that your allegiances lie firmly with the nation and the state."

Bagtas did not fully understand what the teacher meant but felt embarrassed and a little humiliated.

---

Lunch breaks too were no longer just about sharing meals and laughter. Instead, they became platforms for discussions on political ideologies, often heated and divisive. Bagtas, seeking a moment of respite, sometimes retreated to the library, where the shelves held a diverse collection of books that provided alternative perspectives.

He borrowed one titled, A National Crime: A Brief History of the Mediaman Migration into the Western Frontier.

After school, Bagtas navigated the bustling streets once again, this time amidst the ebb and flow of protest marches and political rallies. Van Hoorn had become a city of voices, each clamoring to be heard, yet drowning in the cacophony of conflicting ideologies.

As the day wound down, Bagtas returned home. The evening news blared from the radio, updating the family on the day's events. Maria Santos, his mother, looked at him with concern, aware of the challenges he faced in this newly polarized society.

Bagtas retired to his room, reflecting on the day's experiences. The city outside his window pulsated with energy, its heartbeat echoing the struggles and aspirations of its people.He took out his new book and began to read. In the silence of his room, Bagtas contemplated the path that lay ahead, knowing that each day in Van Hoorn brought new challenges and uncertainties.

[Hintuwan]

San Bernardino Occidental
15 miles South of Almeida

---

Amidst the dense foliage of the forest, a realm of emerald green and shadows, a clandestine dance unfolded between the Communist Party of Hintuwan (CPH) and the Hintuwani army. The forest, often silent, now whispered secrets of rebellion and power.

The moonlit night shrouded the forest in an ethereal glow as Myawaddy and her rebels silently moved through the thick underbrush. Instead of rifles and weaponry, they carried tools for sabotage—wire cutters, incendiary devices, and a determination to disrupt the civilian logging operations that sustained the government's financial machinery.

The CPH had learned of a strategic logging camp nestled northwest of their base area near New Temple, near the La Paz Governorate's border with San Bernardino, where massive trees were felled to fuel the economic engine of the Hintuwani ruling elite. Myawaddy saw this as an opportunity to not only damage the financial interests of the government but also to garner support from the local indigenous population, whose lives were intertwined with the forest.

As the rebels approached the logging camp, they witnessed the flickering lights of the workers' campfires. Axes and chainsaws echoed through the night, a cacophony that Myawaddy aimed to disrupt. Myawaddy and her men, moving like shadows, encircled the camp, their faces obscured by the darkness.

The first wire was cut, and a series of strategically placed incendiary devices were set near the logging machinery. Myawaddy, standing at a vantage point, observed the operation unfold with a sense of grim satisfaction. Panic swept through the logging camp as the wires snapped and machinery ground to a halt. Workers scrambled to assess the situation, their shouts blending with the crackling of flames. The rebels, hidden among the trees, watched as the disruption unfolded, their mission accomplished without firing a single shot.

Myawaddy knew the repercussions of their actions would extend beyond the immediate chaos. The economic hit to the government, coupled with the sympathy garnered from the local population affected by the logging, would sow seeds of dissent. It was a different form of warfare—a battle fought not on the battlefield but within the intricacies of economic survival.

Silently, the rebels retreated into the trees, leaving behind a disrupted logging camp and the echoes of a message: the forest belonged to the people, not to the coffers of a regime. The moonlight continued to cast its glow on the heart of rebellion, where every tree stood witness to the changing tides of revolution.

-snip-

The battle-hardened veterans of the recent engagement, led by their fiery leader, returned with dirt and ash on their faces to the sight of new troops for the revolutionary army being trained by the Socialist Gestachian operatives. The scent of burnt wood and the distant echoes of the recent engagement lingered in the air.

Chinbi Myawaddy gathered with the Socialist Gestachian operatives to discuss their next move. The moonlight cast an eerie glow on the surroundings as Myawaddy, known for her strategic acumen, began outlining their plan.

"Comrades," she began with a determined gaze, "our recent disruption of the logging operations has set the stage, but now we need to escalate. We need a symbol, a target that strikes not just at the regime's economic interests but at the very soul of their control."

She paused, letting the weight of her words settle in the crisp night air. The operatives exchanged glances, sensing the gravity of the upcoming mission. Myawaddy continued, "There is a structure, a monument of their oppressive regime, that stands as a beacon of deceit. Striking there will send shockwaves through their ranks and sow doubt among their followers."

A subtle smile played on Myawaddy's lips as he glanced toward the distant city lights. "This place, once disrupted, will not only shake their foundations but send a message that the people will no longer be bound by foreign whims."

"We strike where their arrogance is most apparent. Prepare the forces, ensure precision, and let the regime know that their prized connections will crumble under the weight of the people's will," Myawaddy declared, her voice carrying a blend of determination and anticipation.

[Hintuwan]

-snip-

Task Force Southern Sentinel, Commonwealth Army of Hintuwan RE.: Interministry Task Force Hintuwan Health and Pesticide Initiative ATTN.: Colonel Stephen Vaughan, Team Lead, Interministry Task Force Hintuwan and All High-Ranking Foreign Advisers, Partners, and Consultants of Operation Southern Sentinel EYES ONLY | 2024 | January 23rd (Forwarded from the Ministries of Health and Agriculture) Good day, Colonel Vaughn. President Bulalacao has authorized me to speak on behalf of the Hintuwani government to report regarding the mission parameters and current state of Operation Southern Sentinel as its supreme commander on the ground. I am in close coordination with counterparts from the various ministries involved with the current operation and can promptly forward any concerns that ITF Hintuwan may have. As such, we are also more than happy to cooperate with your official inquiry: (1) Hintuwan has access to most modern vaccines as well as mitigative medicines due to its strong ties to international trade, the major problem is distribution within the country. Prevalent contagious diseases include dengue and malaria. Rural villages along the Khmaumonorom River are particularly vulnerable. In San Bernardino and La Paz, where ranching is a common profession, foot-and-mouth disease is also an issue. There is a shortage of hospitals and medical workers, most of whom go abroad due to low wages and little incentives to work within Hintuwan. (2) The Royal Family sponsors several mobile hospitals which also include refrigerated storage containers as part of their equipment. Infrastructure to support this in rural areas is less than desirable as cities like Van Hoorn in particular experience regular power outages. (3) State-sponsored pest control operations fall under the prerogative of the Ministry of Industrial Development. The MID is responsible for all policies concerning the output of the agricultural sector. (4) The Ministry for Environmental Protection is fully willing to cooperate with Allanean authorities and in particular, the Interministry Task Force, to achieve its ends. Additionally, Minister Daclan has informed me of your personal request for a junior military Attache to serve as your subordinate and our intermediary to ITF Hintuwan. In compliance with this request, we are assigning you and your delegation Major Rafael Perez from the 103rd "Diamante" (Ulayawan) Infantry Battalion to report to your command post at F.O.B Mangalagar effective immediately. Major Perez has been instrumental to our efforts in the region and recently spearheaded a successful raid against a rebel outpost last July 24th, 2023 known as Operation Thunderstrike. We believe he is the best candidate for this task, and formally relinquish him to your service. A tent is currently cordoned off in F.O.B Mangalagar to host any Allanean personnel that will be sent to Hintuwan, and we are prepared to receive them with a proper diplomatic welcome through the appropriate facilities. Should you require any more information, or request any more assistance to ensure your comfortable stay in our country please do forward any such points to my office. On behalf of the Hintuwani government, I sincerely look forward to our continued cooperation and partnership. Signed, Major-General Kepe Sofia Sawanming Ramirez 33rd Infantry Division Hintuwan

[Allanea]

From: Captain Isabel Magrina, MD,
To: The Ministries of Health, Agriculture and Industrial Development

Dear friends!

I propose a multi-tiered system of support for our operations. To clarify, under the guiding doctrines of the Free Kingdom Emergency Response Command (EMERCOM), a range of viruses and insects are considered to be outright enemies of the Free Kingdom, much as an invading alien species would be. On a species level, the Free Kingdom considers itself to be in conflict with the chikungunya virus, dengue virus, the plasmodium falciparum, as well as the mosquito species aedes aegypti and anopheles gambiae, and a range of others.

We see nothing unusual about terming these enemies: they kill thousands of people every year, and are in many ways as dangerous as any terror organization or radical movement. Therefore, we are fully ready to assist.

The ideal mechanism would of course be the delivery of vaccines to the population by EMERCOM, as well as countermosquito strikes against the principal swamp environments by elements of EMERCOM and / or other Free Kingdom assets. This is probably politically implausible in the short term, and as such we propose that we transfer, from EMERCOM stockpiles and directly to the government of Hintuwan, of a range of items.

1) Portable vaccine refrigerators.
2) Agricultural drones, in configurations appropriate for spraying countermosquito pesticides.
3) Truckmobile and trackmobile pesticide applicators, the later capable of deploying sufficient countermosquito aerosol to areas several square kilometers in size within hours.
4) Vaccines against the principal ailments previously discussed, FMD vaccines.

In addition, we can provide a combination of funding to train persons in administering the vaccines (plausibly these can be either nurses or municipal veterinarians) and EMERCOM-organized online courses).

We will also be working with charities in Allanea to organize volunteers to come and assist but that by its nature will take some time.

Yours,
Captain Isabel Magrina, MD.

[Hintuwan]

Chalet Rojo
Haijing

---

It was a calm Friday afternoon in the capital of Hintuwan. President Henry Theodore Bulalacao gathered his cabinet for an impromptu meeting. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the room as they settled around the polished mahogany table. The low hum of the city's activity seeped through the windows, a constant reminder of the challenges they faced.

"Thank you for joining me on short notice, everyone," President Bulalacao began, his deep voice resonating in the room. Minister of Industrial Development Benaiah Magbantay, Minister of Health Tjandrakusuma Guang, Vice President Payakareik Batrieng, and Minister of Defence Parasaligan Daclan listened intently.

President Bulalacao continued, "We've received an intriguing proposal from Captain Isabel Magrina of Allanea's Emergency Response Command. It pertains to our ongoing counter-insurgency and public health efforts. I'd like each of you to share your thoughts on how we can integrate this plan effectively."

Minister Magbantay leaned forward. "The proposal aligns seamlessly with our infrastructure plans, particularly in healthcare and agriculture. Portable vaccine refrigerators and agricultural drones could be transformative for our nation."

Minister Guang, with an air of determination, added, "Absolutely, Mr. President. The vaccines proposed are vital in our battle against diseases. With proper training, our healthcare workers can administer them effectively. This aligns with our long-term goals of strengthening our healthcare system."

Vice President Batrieng, a steady presence, spoke next. "The proposal includes countermosquito efforts, utilizing drones and pesticide applicators. I suggest close collaboration with the military for deployment. This not only addresses health concerns but also fosters stability in insurgency-affected regions."

General Daclan, the embodiment of caution, interjected, "While the military can offer logistical support, Mr. President, we must ensure we respect local autonomy. Coordinated efforts with local governments and communities are essential to avoid unintended consequences."

President Bulalacao nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed, General Daclan. I trust you'll work closely with Ministers Guang and Batrieng to ensure a harmonious deployment. Minister Guang, focus on inclusive training programs, and Minister Batrieng, ensure that the military's involvement is supportive rather than overbearing."

Minister Magbantay, looking determined, concluded, "This collaboration could be a turning point for our nation. The agricultural initiatives can uplift our farmers. We'll coordinate closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to maximize the impact."

President Bulalacao, with a resolute gaze, said, "Excellent. Let's move forward united. General Daclan, liaise with Captain Magrina to formalize the deployment plan. Ministers Magbantay and Guang, ensure our ministries are ready for implementation."

As the cabinet meeting dispersed the sun began to dip below the cityscape, casting long shadows across the room. General Daclan lingered, awaiting a private moment with President Bulalacao. Once the room cleared, he approached the President with a subtle furrow in his brow.

"Mr. President," began General Daclan, choosing his words with the precision of a seasoned military leader, "I'd like to express my concerns regarding potential foreign interference. Captain Magrina's proposal, while promising, raises questions about the extent of foreign involvement in our counter-insurgency efforts. We must tread cautiously."

President Bulalacao, his features reflective, acknowledged the concern. "General Daclan, you've always been a voice of prudence. What specifically troubles you about foreign influence?"

The general hesitated for a moment before responding, "The Allaneans, with their Emergency Response Command, are proposing substantial aid. While their intentions may be genuine, we must ensure that our sovereignty remains intact. We can't afford to become dependent on foreign forces, especially given the complex political landscape."

President Bulalacao nodded thoughtfully, appreciating Daclan's vigilance. "I share your concern for our sovereignty. Let's establish clear parameters for collaboration with Allanea. We should maintain control over the execution of the plan and ensure that it aligns with our national interests."

"As for Chairman Bantug's remarks," General Daclan continued, "his provocative rhetoric is fanning the flames of discontent. The AHFB's stance could exploit public frustrations and further polarize our society. We need to address this political unrest before it escalates."

General Parasaligan Daclan and Chairman Seferino Bantug inhabited distinct spheres within the intricate tapestry of Hintuwani politics. Daclan, a career military man, embodied the essence of duty and discipline. His loyalty to the Commonwealth was unwavering, and his military background shaped a pragmatic worldview. As Minister of Defense, he prioritized national security and the preservation of order. The military's role, in his perspective, was to safeguard the sovereignty of Hintuwan from external threats and internal discord.

On the other side of the spectrum was Chairman Bantug, the charismatic leader of the All-Hintuwani Forward Bloc (AHFB). The AHFB, a nationalist party, espoused a vision rooted in the preservation of Hintuwan's cultural identity and autonomy. Bantug, a showman in politics, leveraged nationalist sentiments to build a significant following. His rhetoric often struck chords of pride and defiance against perceived external influences.

Daclan was cautious about the potential disruptions caused by radical political shifts, emphasizing the importance of a strong and secure nation. Bantug, however, had always viewed the military establishment with suspicion, fearing that it could stifle the nationalist aspirations he championed. The divergence in their perspectives wasn't merely ideological; it extended to their views on governance. General Daclan, pragmatic and disciplined, sought stability and continuity. Bantug, the nationalist firebrand, saw the need for radical changes to reclaim what he perceived as the true essence of Hintuwan.

President Bulalacao sighed, recognizing the delicate balance between addressing public sentiment and maintaining stability. "General, what course of action do you recommend regarding Chairman Bantug's statements?"

The general's response was measured but firm. "Mr. President, consider reaching out to Chairman Bantug privately. Seek a dialogue to understand his concerns while emphasizing the need for unity in these challenging times. Publicly, we can convey a message of inclusivity and cooperation. We must project strength through unity, not division."

President Bulalacao nodded in agreement. "Your counsel is invaluable, General. I'll arrange a meeting with Chairman Bantug and address the political climate. We can't afford internal strife while facing external threats."

With a respectful salute, General Daclan concluded, "I trust your leadership, Mr. President. Our nation's stability depends on our collective strength."

[Hintuwan]

Van Hoorn

---

Father Dailang Bagarong stood before the congregation, the grandeur of the Saint Bernulf of Utrecht Cathedral serving as a backdrop to his impassioned presence. His eyes, usually warm and comforting, today reflected a deep contemplation, as if wrestling with a message that bore the weight of the times. Bagtas Santos and his mother, Maria, found themselves seated in one of the wooden pews. It was an unusual Friday morning, school was dismissed due to concerns over public security. The echoes of Father Dailang Bagarong's homily reverberated through the hallowed halls.

"Dear brothers and sisters in Christ," Father Bagarong began, his voice echoing through the sacred hall, "we find ourselves at a crossroads, where the winds of change blow fiercely, and the tempest of political discord sweeps across our land."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the pews. The parishioners, accustomed to sermons of solace, sensed a departure from the usual script.

"In these turbulent times, as we witness the struggles of our fellow countrymen, we cannot turn a blind eye to the cries of the oppressed and the disenfranchised. The Gospel, my dear friends, is not a passive spectator in the theatre of human suffering; it is an active participant, beckoning us to engage with the world's afflictions."

He took a deep breath, his gaze penetrating the hearts of the congregants. As Father Bagarong spoke of compassion and justice, Bagtas listened intently. His young mind absorbed the weight of the words, and he stole glances at his mother, who, with closed eyes, appeared deep in prayer.

"The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us that compassion knows no boundaries. It challenges us to extend our love even to those deemed as outsiders, as enemies. In our contemporary context, who are the marginalized, the downtrodden, but our fellow citizens whose voices are drowned in the cacophony of inequality?"

A solemn hush enveloped the cathedral as Father Bagarong continued. The sunlight filtered through the stained glass, casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the cathedral floor. Bagtas, ever the curious soul, watched as motes of dust danced in the beams of light.

"We must recognize that the issues our nation faces are multifaceted, rooted in socio-economic disparities that have deep historical scars. It is our Christian duty to stand in solidarity with those who strive for a more just society. The call for economic equity is not alien to the message of Christ; it is a resonance with the very heartbeat of the Gospel."

He paused, allowing his words to linger in the sacred space.

"While we cannot endorse violence or upheaval, we must not shy away from acknowledging the legitimate grievances that fuel the flames of dissent. Our faith demands that we engage in honest introspection, recognizing the systemic injustices that fuel the discontent."

The sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows seemed to dance with the shadows, mirroring the tension in Father Bagarong's homily.

"Let us pray for our nation, for our leaders, that they may be guided by the wisdom to discern the root causes of discord and work towards a society where every individual, regardless of their station, enjoys the fruits of justice and peace."

The homily concluded, leaving the congregants in contemplative silence, pondering a message that dared to confront the political currents of the day. Mother and son exited the cathedral into the warm Friday air. Bagtas felt a slight discomfort on his arm, a consequence of the tropical climate and wandering fish vendors who had congregated outside the cathedral to sell their day-old produce. Unbeknownst to him, a mosquito, perhaps stirred by the devout energy in the air, had found its target.

As they strolled through the church courtyard, Bagtas brushed off the sensation, dismissing it as a minor irritation.

[Allanea]

With a hum, the ramp opened.

Strapped down on pallets in the hold were moss-green rectangular crates. The forklift moved forward, its blade-like forks pushing under the first of the pallet. It began to back up, alarm light on its top blinking, the reverse alert beeping mercilessly.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

“Sign here, please.” – the Allanean soldier said to his local counterpart, extending a gloved hand holding an army tablet. “You’ll have to sign again for each pallet we hand over.”

“We are going to be delivering vaccine containers of each size. Mid-sized crates like this that you can just toss in the trunk of a car, or, I don’t know, a tuk-tuk. Small ones you can carry on your side. And big containers that you’ll move on a truck.” – the loadmaster explained. “We’ll have these prepositioned locally at whatever facilities have vaccine refrigerators, and then basically have vaccination teams rearm like bombers at the hospital, refill the crates with vaccine portions, off they go.”

* * *

Somewhere in Allanea

Soldiers in dark-green suits that concealed their entire frame moved back and forth, remote-controlled forklifts moving heavy drums marked with bright, white-and-red warning emblems – HAZARD, HAZMAT, and, on some, BIOHAZARD.

Already now, the Allaneans were hard at work plotting out a campaign of vicious, aggressive chemical warfare – not against the terrorists, but against the mosquitoes. They had a plan which they hoped the government of Hintuwan would clear, a plan that would strike the enemy with all the ferocity of which the Allaneans were so famous, allowing neither respite nor recovery, forming advantages on which advantages would be built.

[Socialist Gestachia]

OOC: Sorry for the late post life got in the way.

The battle-hardened veterans of the recent engagement, led by their fiery leader, returned with dirt and ash on their faces to the sight of new troops for the revolutionary army being trained by the Socialist Gestachian operatives. The scent of burnt wood and the distant echoes of the recent engagement lingered in the air.

Chinbi Myawaddy gathered with the Socialist Gestachian operatives to discuss their next move. The moonlight cast an eerie glow on the surroundings as Myawaddy, known for her strategic acumen, began outlining their plan.

"Comrades," she began with a determined gaze, "our recent disruption of the logging operations has set the stage, but now we need to escalate. We need a symbol, a target that strikes not just at the regime's economic interests but at the very soul of their control."

She paused, letting the weight of her words settle in the crisp night air. The operatives exchanged glances, sensing the gravity of the upcoming mission. Myawaddy continued, "There is a structure, a monument of their oppressive regime, that stands as a beacon of deceit. Striking there will send shockwaves through their ranks and sow doubt among their followers."

A subtle smile played on Myawaddy's lips as he glanced toward the distant city lights. "This place, once disrupted, will not only shake their foundations but send a message that the people will no longer be bound by foreign whims."

"We strike where their arrogance is most apparent. Prepare the forces, ensure precision, and let the regime know that their prized connections will crumble under the weight of the people's will," Myawaddy declared, her voice carrying a blend of determination and anticipation.

One of the MSIIS agent's eyes widened, "Well, what is this beacon of oppression? The ship carrying the extra troops and supplies are only going to arrive tomorrow but we can go over battle plans right now."

SIC: Southern Sea:

---

A small Gestachian cargo ship was carrying 25 advisors, 50 volunteers, 500 Mo-12 anti-tank rocket propelled grenade launchers, 500 J7 fléchette assault rifles, 2000 rounds of ammunition, an X8 Heavy Main Battle Tank, and a canister of the Z8 chemical weapon. Of course the ship wasn't marked as Gestachian, it fact it wasn't even marked at all. In space the Committee on Computer Security were targeting spy satellites to ensure the ship would enter Hintuwani waters undetected.

All was going well until the ship was spotted by a small Hintuwani Coast Guard patrol vessel. However the cargo ship jammed the patrol vessel's communication fired a warning shot and demanded the patrol vessel's surrender, which the crew of 2 promptly did after realizing their tongue was cut. The 2 Hintuwanis were taken prisoner, and their patrol vessel was sunk.

[Hintuwan]

-snip-

Southern Sea

---

The moon shrouded itself behind thick clouds, casting an eerie darkness upon the stormy waters of the Hintuwani coastline, just a few miles off the northern island of Buladore. Lieutenant Thetwe Ywawi and Petty Officer Rafael Amyong battled against the raging elements aboard their coast guard patrol vessel, the BKH Kratangi. Rain lashed against the steel exterior, and waves rose and fell with chaotic fury.

In this tumultuous night, the silhouette of an unmarked cargo ship emerged from the blackness. An uneasy feeling settled over the crew as they attempted to establish communication with the approaching vessel. However, the storm seemed to carry away their messages, leaving them with an ominous silence from the mysterious ship.

A lightning bolt tore through the sky, briefly illuminating the unmarked vessel. In that moment, a warning shot was fired from the Hintuwani patrol, a desperate attempt to communicate with the unknown entity. Instead of dialogue, the response was a demand for surrender. Lieutenant Ywawi and Petty Officer Amyong, facing the relentless storm and an unseen adversary, reluctantly complied, their vessel now at the mercy of the turbulent sea.

The crew of two was taken prisoner amid the howling winds and crashing waves, their patrol vessel succumbing to the tempestuous night. The incident unfolded as nature itself seemed to protest the intrusion, leaving the Commonwealth grappling not only with a breach of sovereignty but with the chaotic forces of the storm that mirrored the uncertainty of the situation.

News of the hostile encounter spread through the ranks of the Commonwealth, and an emergency meeting was convened. As the storm raged on, the Ministry of Defense deliberated on the appropriate response, aware that the implications of this act reached far beyond the windswept waves of the coastal waters.

[Gonswanza]

Incidents aside, the shipment of Comet class vessels were to be delivered. Originally slated for later in the month, these were more weathered, lightly used, but "retired" from Gonswanzan logistics as each one had more than plenty of crew, security staff, and gifts aboard to push Gonswanzan weapons to market. Civilian versions of AR-76s, Field Pistols, ammo to spare. Yet, they flew the Gonswanzan flag and KTO flag, while Faust securities took the time to put plenty of their own on said ships, mixed in with the security staff and crew in case of hijackers.

Luckily, the rationale was not due to Gestechian piracy, but rather it was out of a mild fear of other parties attacking the ships en route, keeping security low profile, with a Gonswanzan corvette shadowing the logistics ships for most of the journey until the final approach upon Hintuwan waters. As KTO vessels, they too braved the storm, unaware of the attack, with radio contact being maintained using multi-spectrum radios resistant to jamming, as well as almost constant checks on the crew, while the security were equipped with BAA and AR-76s or ASG-12s to ensure that order is maintained, having Verbas and RPG-32s in reserve should they be necessary for greater threats. Yet, ammo was severely limited for the explosive ordinance.

While the ships were intended as part of the deal, the guns were, obviously, the unknown factor.

But now it was up to chance to see if the terrorists would dare to strike, risking a war, or simply leave the unassuming collection alone, unaware of the nearby corvette idly waiting to engage.

[Socialist Gestachia]

The unidentified cargo ship finally made landfall in a small hidden cove, before unloading the cargo the 5 MSIIS, the ship's captain, agents and Ka Aguila was touring the ship.

"So. The MSIIS heard your request for more troops and we brought over 25 advisors and 50 volunteers."

The group then walked over to the cargo, "now here is a canister of our infamous and highly lethal chemical weapon Z8. I am not sure if you want it as unless you get creative your fighters are going to need full CBRN gear. If you do decide to take it DON'T USE IT in populated areas, only use it against places like military bases. Gestachia cannot afford such an incident. Now, here we have one X8 Heavy Main Battle Tank, again I don't know if you want it as it is questionable whether or not it will be effective in the jungles. And now here's what we brought for small arms: 500 Mo-12 anti-tank rocket propelled grenade launchers, 500 J7 fléchette assault rifles, 2000 rounds of ammunition."

The group then walked back on deck, "Oh and how could I forget? Bring them out!" 2 Hintuwani Coast Guard officers were escorted to the bridge, in chains and followed by 2 Gestachian volunteers with J7s, their uniforms was disheveled, and they were clearly fearful of what was going to happen next. "On our way here we were spotted by the Hintuwani Coast Guard but were able to pacify them quite easily, now these 2 are your problem, shoot them, imprison them, impress them, or let them go as they do not know who we are."

OOC: You can read more about Z8 in my factbook about WMDs, the X8 is somewhat like Obiekt 279, except a lot more modern.

[Hintuwan]

-snip-

Ka Aguila observed the array of weaponry and supplies with a discerning gaze, his weathered face reflecting both gratitude and the weight of responsibility. The information about the Z8 chemical weapon drew a contemplative expression, acknowledging its potency while recognizing the delicate nature of its use. "Your caution is duly noted. We'll consider its deployment carefully, prioritizing strategic rather than indiscriminate application."

The X8 Heavy Main Battle Tank was regarded with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. "The jungles indeed pose challenges, but we might find tactical uses for such armored assets, especially in more open terrains."

As the MSIIS agent presented the small arms, Ka Aguila nodded appreciatively. "These will undoubtedly strengthen our forces. Our fighters will be trained on these new additions promptly."

The scene on the bridge shifted when the Coast Guard officers were brought forward. Ka Aguila maintained his composed demeanor as he considered the options presented. "We appreciate your ingenuity in dealing with the patrol vessel. As for these officers, we'll handle them appropriately. They will be brought before a people's tribunal. The revolution will decide their fate."

The tactical decisions weighed heavily on Ka Aguila's mind as he mentally outlined the integration of these resources into the existing strategies of the Commonwealth's defense forces.

With a firm handshake, Ka Aguila conveyed his gratitude to the MSIIS agents. "Your support is invaluable. We will ensure these assets contribute to the security and advancement of our cause. Your trust in us is not misplaced."

[Socialist Gestachia]

/snip

One of the MSIIS agents raised his finger, we're glad you like your new toys, but of course do not forget about your 75 new friends as well. The MSIIS remembers that your biggest request was for more manpower, now I know that you saw a few on this ship but how should we organize them to meet you and get them ready for combat?" "As for the X8, it might just be one for now but if it proves useful we will gladly send more."

[Gonswanza]

While the communists were harassing other ships, the logistics ships continued their course for Haijing, pushing ahead, as the corvette continued to shadow the group of logistics ships, soon falling behind in the storm. Yet, they would soldier on, unafraid, as arrival was due in a short few hours now, the ships soon slowing down and requesting clearance long prior to entry, in order to avoid unintended traffic issues as the corvette finally caught up. Given the corvette lacked civilian lights unlike the Comet class craft, the latter was almost invisible against the storm save for the odd lightning strike upon the sea, while the logistics ships were easy to spot from afar given the piercing colors of their standard lighting with mild lights in the bridge area barely pushing through the storm itself.

A waiting target, though whether or not the communists would bite is another story entirely.