Saint Sowenan Civil War [IC; PT; Humans; Nationbuilding]

[Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines]

Saint Sowenan Civil War

OOC Thread: https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=459339


St. Sowenan Republican Army soldiers apprehending an AFNL guerilla, 10 Aug. 1985 (Taken by MINN Correspondent Oysian Tregurtha)

Introduction: 10 August 1985

Following the sporadic uprisings that all began in the southern and eastern parts of the islands of Mabynia, Jeffreni and St. Piran, the influence of the AFNL had been growing at an increasing rate, like a leopard catching up to its prey. Managing to secure a numerous amount of territory, the fighters for freedom were prepared to make their stand and fight. However, not every citizen in the nation was convinced of this growing revolution. Whether it be believing the information provided by the government through various media sources or keeping to themselves for whatever reasons, their inactivity is apparent.

With orders from President-for-Life and Commander-in-Chief Caradoc Tresidder, a number of general officers of the St. Sowenan Republican Armed Forces have been dispatched to contain the situation through any means of suppression and martial law was imposed throughout the Morhaedine Islands. As desperate as Tresidder is in keeping his power intact, he intends for the day to come for the AFNL to be annihilated.

For the AFNL, they will do whatever it takes to obtain one common goal that they have been desiring for all these years: freedom and liberty. How long it will take for them to achieve it, it is unknown, but they keep to their hearts and minds the belief a day will come when all citizens of the country can live in happiness for years into the future.

Speech to the Republic: 9:00 AM GSST (Greater St. Sowenan Time)

Tresidder giving his speech in the Presidential Office (Taken by SSNN Capital Correspondent Tegen Nanscawen)

"Fellow citizens of St. Sowena and the Morhaedines, great trouble has been set upon us once again. Unlike the Coup of 1970, this potentially surmounting revolutionary movement spells a farther greater consequence. This blatant insurrection can permanently replace the beliefs and practices that we have held with utmost confidence and pride.

With much audacity, this revolutionary movement known as the Armed Front for National Liberation, or the AFNL for short, has dared to inflict tribulations upon our established order and our good, law-abiding citizens, especially in the islands of Mabynia, Jeffrenni and St. Piran. At this time, I have issued the order of our Armed Forces to send troops to quell the uprisings and gunfights that are taking place at this very moment. In addition, I have the incentive to declare and impose martial law throughout the entire Morhaedine Island Group.

All of this is done to ensure the necessary protection of our citizens down south, and to, with great intentions, put a stop to this perturbing, if not also blasphemous, crusade for the AFNL's view of "freedom, liberty and true democracy." We are living in a democracy already. I have been elected President-for-Life for the benefit of the people, and I have kept that promise diligently, on par with what God has intended me to do. The AFNL's intentions to this lovely country, though, contradict this greatly. They seek to impose a disastrous government with horrendous policies that will tear down what we have laid a foundation for a prosperous country. Furthermore, this itself links to communism. Not only are they promoting this vision that is to end for despondency to spread throughout the country, but they wish to impose a state of where the Lord's Faith is to be shunned and condemned. This is something that we all must fight against. This is something to do in the name of God and our beloved country.

Today shall start the time where we will completely bring the AFNL to their knees in sorrow! Today shall be the day where they underestimate our might! And today shall be the day where they will realize their mistake of perturbing our good order and seeking disorder and godlessness! God is calling us to defend what we have succeeded and accomplished. Take that call, my fellow and loyal citizens and soldiers! God defend our people! God defend our laws! God defend our success! And most importantly, God defend our nation! Hir bewa Sen Sowena hag an Ennisow Morheado!"

[Kyrenaia]

11th of August 1985, Utica.
One would not believe, that the wreck of a woman sitting at the head of the large table was the Sultana of roundabout half a billion people. Razia-Sultana, vintage 1953, the Ilkahana of Utica and, for thirteen years now, Kyrenaia's Sultana, had bloodshot violet eyes, her dark hair, usually of a lustrous sheen, was matte.
It was understandable.
Her husband, Dschafar bint-Walid, her beloved husband, had died a few days ago. He had been ill for a long time, but his death still hit her hard - he left her with three children, the future of the Ilkhanate and, ultimately, the Sultanate.
Still, despite any grief there was, she still wanted to do her duty as Kyrenaia's Sultana. And what she had taken over from Kian-Sultan was a mess... Kyrenaia had drawn the shorter straw in the Decolonization Wars and had been in a severely weakened position. The young woman, who ascended to the throne in 1972, barely having graduated and still chewing on the death of her own father, had been the Hope of Kyrenaia for a brighter future.
And so far, she delivered.
But after years of recession, then rebuilding, both of what remained of Kyrenaia and its armed forces, which had first been shrunk to have ressources free for more pressing, internal projects, then enlarged again, everyone was aware, that it was now time... the Navy and the Armies of the Five Deserts were ready to represent Kyrenaia's Interests abroad.
The table was set up in the Situations Room, the centre of Kyrenaia's Government in times of Crisis, the Sultana did not sit alone. Despite her bloodshot eyes, she listened very well to the man of the Naval Intelligence, who reported. He was a Commander, a man by the name of Jamkiya, who spoke about the situation in Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines.
SSM, as he abbreviated it, was in the early stages of a civil war. People, fed up with the corrupt rule of President-for-Life Caradoc Tresidder and his economic downward trend, which seemed almost deliberate, had formed a protest, which had been cracked down upon.
And soon, the entire country was aflame.
AFNL, Armed Front for National Liberation, had been surprisingly quickly formed, with unclear political motivations except "Down with Tresidder!", although the man to be downed claimed them to be left-wingers, communists.
The situation was unclear.
Still, by the time the man had finished, the Sultana spent a moment thinking, then turned to her Grand Vizier, a man by the name of Mahmut al-Zahir, who still had to learn the ways of wisdom.
"I wish for Kyrenaia to support the AFNL.", she told him, "What do you think?"
It was a sign for her reign, that she was actively asking for the opinion of her Head of Government and others, considering their opinions, and was not deciding too quickly.
"It is clear, that Tresidder is reigning with a heavy hand.", al-Zahir said, "His rule is corrupt, his government bad, his people rebelling. The man himself... don't get your hopes up, Sultana." He shook his head. "No, if we aid any side, we would best aid the ANFL. And that is a large if."
"Why?", the Vizier for Foreign Affairs asked, "This might be the internal matter of the Government of Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines, but Tresidder is corrupt, suppressing protests with an iron fist. It would be our chance to regain some of our international standing... and we would be winning a valuable friend, if the AFNL wins."
"We don't know, what they stand for.", al-Zahir held against him, "They formed awfully quickly, as the good Commander pointed out. A cladestine organization at work is not a safe bet. Besides, aside from Tresidder's claim of them being communist, we have no idea about them."
"Another important question...", the Sultana interrupted both men, turning to one of the two men at the table in uniform, "...are we ready to intervene?"
"Ready?", the Grand Admiral said with a scoff, "No. We have no plan, no logistics in place, nothing mobile, not a single speck of intelligence or reconnaissance. We have no reason to call ourselves ready." He let a beat pass. "What we have, is the potential to deploy a Fleet Group, at least initially, to show our flag and to support either side. I would, at first, not deploy any ground forces. Marshal?"
"No, me neither.", the Marshal spoke, the first thing he spoke all meeting. "We will, however, supply Long-Range Reconnaissance elements."
The Grand Admiral nodded. "Now, give the word and we will begin."
The Sultana considered. It would be her first involvement in a foreign conflict, the first time she sent Kyrenaian Soldiers to represent the Sultanate's interests. People, some of them barely older then Ilia, her oldest son.
"Consider the word given.", the Sultana said.
Around two hours later, the first reconnaissance satellite made a pass of Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines, shooting low-resolution pictures. These images were mostly meant to plan for the runs of reconnaissance planes, long-range missions, which were difficult enough to pull off already...
At Shajarat Alnakhil, the largest offshore base of the Sultan's Navy and its logistical hub, Vice Admiral Admir Safina was ordered to plan for his Fleet Group around the Guided Missile Cruiser RKN Alsayd to be deployed.
Destination: Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines.
His reply was a confused: "To where?"

[Astoria]

The Executive Mansion
Columbia, United States of Astoria

“Today shall start the time where we will completely bring the AFNL to their knees in sorrow! Today shall be the day where they underestimate our might! And today shall be the day where they will realize their mistake of perturbing our good order and seeking disorder and godlessness! God is calling us to defend what we have succeeded and accomplished. Take that call, my fellow and loyal citizens and soldiers! God defend our people! God defend our laws! God defend our success! And most importantly, God defend our nation! Hir bewa Sen Sowena hag an Ennisow Morheado!”

“Well, it’s quite the speech.”

President Howard Nissen let one chuckle out at the remark. The speech was bombastic and defiant. Nissen understood why the President-for-Life for Astoria’s southern neighbor had gotten along so well with his predecessor. Erwin Rexall might not be President of the United States of Astoria any more, but his legacy continued on in many ways. St. Sowena was one of them: the regime was corrupt, oppressive, and anti-democratic. But they were also staunchly anti-communist, and that was good enough for the conservative government that Nissen and the liberal party had defeated in the last election. Rexall had left Nissen quite a few messes on the table on his way out, but few were as close to home as this one.

The television had finished running the speech and a talking head was back on the screen reciting the handful of facts that were known about the uprising for the ninth time that hour. Nissen gestured and the screen was turned off. “So,” he began. “What should we be expecting?”

His Director of National Intelligence cleared his throat, signaling to anyone else thinking about speaking that he would like the first word. When nobody challenged him, Rear Admiral Jonathan Goodwright sat up straight in his seat on the couch and opened a manila folder sitting on the table in front of him. “According to our information, the rebels – the Armed Front for National Liberation – have somewhere around twenty-five thousand fighters spread out across three of the Morhaedine Island group. Fighting appears to be limited to small-scale firefights for now. The government response has only just begun to mobilize, so the AFNL has some time to push for as much as they can take and hold before the hammer comes down.”

“And when that hammer does come down, what are their chances?”

“Hard to say. If the military stays loyal, then the AFNL will be outnumbered and outgunned. Could get pretty nasty. If some of the military defects, then the situation might become more balanced, or even start looking bad for Tresidder. He’s already survived one coup attempt, back in 1970. He won’t go down easily, or willingly.”

Nissen considered this information. The last thing he wanted was a civil war raging in Astoria’s backyard. The disruption to international trade through the waters around the Morhaedines, the lack of political attention to his domestic agenda…the sooner this was resolved, the better. Especially ff foreign powers thought to start getting involved. “Thank you, Admiral. Dick, what do you think the odds are of getting Tresidder to cut some sort of deal?”

Richard Arnold, the Secretary of State, cocked his head in a way that Nissen had figured out meant he was doing some complex thinking in his balding head. After a moment, he straightened out and adjusted his glasses. “Not too good. He definitely won’t step down or agree to any sort of serious limits on his power or lifting of restrictions. But…maybe some symbolic gestures, minor stuff. He’s a smart guy. Could get enough people off the rebel side and back onto the sidelines to stop their momentum.”

It was better than nothing. “Have your team out together a message. Let’s get a meeting arranged to find out what they’re thinking.”

“Ambassador Lernas is a capable woman,” Arnold added. “She’ll be able to handle the initial negotiations.”

“Good.” Nissen turned to look at another member of his cabinet, the Secretary of Defense. “While we’re doing that, I want to talk about the border.”

“I thought you’d say that.” Anthony Moxley said with a smile. “I’ve prepared a few scenarios. We should be expecting to see an increase in refugee movement into Palmetto and Potomia. The state authorities and non-military federal departments should be able to handle it. If not, we can move Army and National Guard units to the border region relatively fast. How long it takes depends on how many we need.”

“Keep those plans handy and updated,” Nissen affirmed. “It doesn’t sound like there’s any fighting on the mainland yet, right?” A quick nod from the D.N.I. confirmed this fact. “We don’t want to spook Mister Tresidder, so we’ll wait until we’re sure we need it.”

“I’ve also asked the Navy Department to bump up the alert level for area,” Moxley continued. “To make sure we’re ready if any foreign powers attempt to intervene directly. The Fourth Fleet is going to undertake some large-scale maneuvers to the east of the Morhaedines, to be in position to monitor any warships or suspicious vessels.”

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE - STANDARD DIPLOMATIC ENCRYPTION

FROM: Ambassador Rodelia Lernas, on behalf of the United States of Astoria
TO: The Government of Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines
I wish to formally request a meeting with a representative of your government, to discuss matters related to the ongoing conflict in the Morhaedine Island group. The United States wishes to begin delivering humanitarian aid to those affected by the violence. In addition, I have been directed by my government to inquire as to the feasibility of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. –Ambassador Lernas

[Imperial Majapahit]

Majakarta, the Empire of Majapahit
11 August 1985, 7:05am local time

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Prologue - several months prior

Nearly one month has passed since a political turmoil shook the Empire of Majapahit that almost resulted in an all-out civil war. The people was still recovering, the upper echelons of government was still being re-stabilised, and the nation in general was recuperating from their initial shock. The unrest was mostly due to the disputed results of the February 1985 elections, and partly because the reigning Maharaja (Emperor), His Imperial Majesty Jayanagara VI, was so paranoid towards any form of leftist ideologies. When the parliamentary election results were announced, it was clear that no single political party, not even the ruling Imperial Rule Alliance, won an absolute majority. At the peak stood the Syndicalist Union Party (SUP), followed by the IRA, then at the bottom was the much smaller National Civic Party (NCP). However, the margin between the SUP and IRA was a major concern to the Emperor.

The ruling House of Wijaya, loyal supporters of the monarchy as well as IRA leaders, called for re-elections, on the basis that a clear majority was needed to form a functioning government. On the other hand, parliamentary leaders and notable figures of the SUP insisted a coalition government between SUP and the NCP was in fact possible and persisted that another round of elections was not necessary. It was clear that the Emperor was strongly against a Syndicalist-dominated government and will not agree to any form of compromise. Neither side intended to back down, with the Emperor vehemently refusing to swear in the new members of parliament while the Syndicalist-Civic coalition proceeded with nominating candidates for Premiership anyway. The populace had polarised into supporters of the new Coalition and supporters of the ruling Imperial house. Protests by Coalition supporters against the Emperor's increasingly authoritarian stance soon began to ignite in major cities across Majapahit. As time went on, these protests quickly gained traction and turned into full-blown riots. His Imperial Majesty mobilised the Imperial Guard (a force independent from the formal military) under his personal command to suppress the riots, taking over the duties of the law enforcement authorities.

The Coalition objected against this move and threatened to retaliate with force if necessary, to "protect the democratic process". A week later, the Democratic Army of Majapahit (DAM) was formed under the SUP as its paramilitary wing, to safeguard SUP rallies and demonstrations. This was soon considered to be a fatal decision when, during a mass protest in downtown Bandung, DAM troops fired on Imperial Guard units which were blocking the city's main roads with armoured vehicles and used violence against the protesters. It culminated in a direct confrontation between the DAM and Imperial Guards, resulting in as many as over two dozen killed in the incident.

When the situation began to escalate, the politically-neutral commanders from all three branches of the Imperial Military realised drastic measures had to be taken to prevent an all-out civil war from erupting and devastating the Empire. An emergency council was secretly formed to discuss this issue, unbeknownst to the government. A few days later, both sides embroiled in the conflict were surprised to find that military units intervened by dissolving the demonstrations without prior warning. Many important installations and establishments were raided by the armed forces. Broadcasting stations were seized to announce to the general public that martial law was being instated and their obedience was required to restore law and order to Majapahit. Regional government offices and police stations were "visited" to ensure cooperation from regional governors and law enforcement authorities. Finally, the Imperial Assembly (parliament) building was stormed by military forces.

The government was forcibly dissolved, the 1985 election results declared null and void, and a new Provisional Government was swiftly installed under auspices of the Imperial Military. Once their position was secured, the military started to disarm both the DAM and the Imperial Guard. Over 8.000 people involved in the unrest were imprisoned for "high treason". Leaders of the Coalition parties were detained and put into correctional facilities without any trial, while His Imperial Majesty Emperor Jayanagara VI was forced to abdicate and hand over the throne to his 23-year old nephew, young Crown Prince and Navy Vice Admiral Bhrawardhana Adiwijaya. The Emperor had no other choice but to concede to the military's demands. Three days later, Jayanagara VI stepped down from the throne and the Prince was crowned as His Imperial Majesty Emperor Padma III. As requested by the military, the new Emperor appointed army colonel Raden Maraya as the Premier of Majapahit.

* * *

Intervention - present-day

The Provisional Government of Majapahit has been informed of the recent turn of events in Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines. It seemed reminiscent of the unrest Majapahit had gone through just months earlier, although this time it is much more serious. An uprising had been sparked in the country against the legitimate government of President Caradoc Tresidder. For nearly 15 years his government had brought many benefits for his nation. However, the insurrection will disrupt the law and order that has been established so firmly in St. Sowena. The rebel organisation AFNL, leftist in nature, is of course responsible for this uprising, and Majapahiti observers noted their quickly growing influence in the country. If not put down quickly, this insurgency may completely devastate St. Sowena, its economy, and its people. The general populace of Majapahit supports intervention in the conflict to stop it before it could develop even further.

As advised (and politely requested) by the newly-crowned Emperor Padma III, the Provisional Government has decided to take a strong stance against the seemingly communist AFNL, although the rebel organisation's true leanings couldn't be specified due to lack of intelligence. Additionally, the House of Wijaya runs several enterprises in St. Sowena and those ventures are under threat from the AFNL, thus the Emperor was keen on protecting his family's interests there. Under the leadership of Premier Raden Maraya, the government held a meeting in Majakarta, the capital city, to discuss Majapahiti involvement in the St. Sowenan conflict. The result was a declaration of support for President Tresidder's government in the struggle against the rebellion. Majapahit is ready to deploy a small force to assist the St. Sowenan military and fight alongside them against the AFNL scum.

.

Majapahiti Imperial Bureau of Foreign Affairs
Official Communique

---

Sender: Bureau of Foreign Affairs, Provisional Government of the Empire of Majapahit
Recipient: Foreign minister or equivalent, Government of Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines
Encryption: Medium

---

Dear Sir/Madam,

Greetings from the Empire of Majapahit.

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Col. Jana Indrayana, foreign affairs minister for the Empire of Majapahit, on behalf of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Padma III and His Excellency Premier Raden Maraya. I am writing to you to kindly inform that we have received news about the recent turmoil in Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines. We are saddened to hear that a violent uprising has erupted in your country, threatening the established law and order. We understand the dire need to take drastic action against those rebels, the so-called Armed Front for National Liberation, and as such, I wish to inform you that the Empire of Majapahit would like to offer our helping hand.

As part of His Imperial Majesty's foreign policy, Majapahit is ready to protect our national interests in St. Sowena, defend your country in general, and His Excellency President Tresidder's government in particular. Furthermore, our intelligence suggests that some members within the AFNL are suspected communists or have communist sympathies/leanings. Therefore, it is in our favour that the AFNL be annihilated in as short time as possible.

We would like to request your permission to send in an Imperial Guards regiment to the front lines in St. Sowena. These elite troops shall fight alongside St. Sowenan forces against the rebels, provide logistical support, and conduct peacekeeping duties where they are required to do so. Should you grant us authorisation, Majapahiti troops will be sent by air and sea and shall arrive in your country within less than a week. We sincerely await your response.

May the Gods be on our side.

Kind regards,

J. Indrayana, Foreign Minister
Empire of Majapahit

[Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines]

This text will denote Cornish being spoken
This text will denote St. Sowenan Creole being spoken

And for the sake of time, I will not include Tresidder's comminiques in this post. Assume they are distributed.

---

Meeting at the Presidential Congregration Room: 11 August 1985, 9:00 AM GSST

At the meeting room, the seats were occupied by several people of important occupations. At the seat in front of the St. Sowenan flag sat the elderly but resilient President-for-Life himself, looking as if he were stoic as a marble statue. On his left were Interior Minister Marh Harris, on his right Prime Minister Cantgueithen Tregidgo, leaning with eagerness. The rest of the seats were filled with various general officers of St. Sowena's military: from the Army: Costentyn Penhalligon, Cinhoedl U'Ren, Conredeu Stephens and Gurient Carkeek; from the Navy: Cengor Rundle, Ryd Prideaux and Hedrek Bennets; and from the Air Force, Dewi Edgcumbe, Mihal Penrose and Guithrit Cornish.

"Mr. President," chimed the Prime Minister, "if you would like, I will give off the first subject on this meeting agenda."

"Proceed," Tresidder agreed.

The Minister cleared his throat, held up one of his papers and stood with confidence that, with his expression, looked as if he were lazy to keep his back straight.

"Good morning, everyone. During the last two hours, we have received two communiques from the governments of the United States of Astoria, our neighbor from the north and supportive of us just to add, and the Empire of Majapahit, of whom has established enterprises and businesses at this peninsula and on St. Loi."

"Will they be able to support us," asked General U'Ren.

"I will get to that in a moment, General U'Ren," the Prime Minister replied, "Subsequently, we have also received word of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia deploying a Fleet Group into our country's waters. Their current affiliation is currently unknown at this moment."

"Tell them that they cannot enter here in our waters," said General Carkeek, "I don't trust them."

"General Carkeek, relax," Tresidder responded, "We must be patient in matters like these. What if they're meant to support us in our fight? Did you consider that?"

Carkeek sighs.

"Forgive me, Mr. President," he bowed his head down.

"Moving foward," the Prime Minister continued, "the President has briefed Admiral Rundle to send a detachment to keep surveillance and possibly provide open communication with them on their current plan of action. You are to do this at your own discretion, Admiral."

"I will," Rundle acknowledged.

"If by chance they open fire, you are to return the same thing. Moving on, the Ambassador of Astoria has sent a communique stating her government's request for a meeting and humanitarian aid to be sent to the conflict area. As for Majapahit, they are willing to send support to us."

"Well, that's good," commented General Penhalligon.

"Indeed. Thank God we have business ties with them," responded Tresidder, "I'll ensure that communiques will be sent to each of them detailing relevant respective responses. Any other questions that you all have in mind?."

The room falls silent.

"Then carry on with your duties, everyone. God is calling us to defend this nation from this wanton dissent. This meeting is adjourned."

With that, the seats are made empty. As for the ministers, the Interior Minister was dismissed to oversee the functionality and stability of homeland security, while the Prime Minister was called upon by Tresidder to collaborate in composing his messages.

[Kyrenaia]

11th to 16th of August 1985.
Over the next few days, the apparatus known as the Kyrenaian Armed Forces sprang to life.
Maps were unearthed, images from satellites were taken apart pixel by pixel and soon replaced by higher resolution images, Fleet Group Alsayd was made ready - and the Commanding Admiral had to plan as well.
For right north of Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines was another country: Astoria. Interfering right in front of their noses into a civil war... he was quite sure, that they would not allow them to take the butter off their breads, especially since the current President's predecessor turned a blind eye to Tresidder and his government in favour of him being anti-Communist.
The problem with the popularity contest known as democracy: Long-term diplomatic standpoints only held for legislative periods. Monarchies, like the Sultanate, had advantages of being able to plan long times ahead - the Sultanate endured, after all.
A Guided Missile Cruiser, a small number of destroyers and two carriers - for Kyrenaian Standards, that was a good fleet.
If shit hit the fan, he would get reinforcements.
However, mobilizing such a feet would not go unnoticed, not even from the Shajarat Alnakhil.
Meanwhile, the news with which the spooks returned, was not too good: The AFNL had a small force, estimated between fifteen and twenty-five thousand fighters, a huge number of repurposed civilian vehicles and little in the ways of actual military vehicles - meanwhile, Tresidder had the military on his side.
And with that, the sizeable submarine force, estimated to be around forty vessels. Plus a surface fleet of dozens of vessels. Plus a small air force with home advantage.
This was not bombing some primitive rebels back into the Stone Age from beyond their line of sight while sipping a good cuppa and hoping, that none of the cruise missiles would a hospital or some bullshit like that.
This, the Admiral told the Ministry of Defense, the one of Foreign Affairs and his own Grand Admiral, had the potential to become very, very ugly very, very quickly. And thus, plans were drawn up.
And a message was sent:

To:

President Howard Nissen of Astoria.

From: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
Subject: A proposal.

Dear President Nissen,
in the name of the Sultana, Razia V., Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, I am to inform Your Excellency, that, in the light of the precarious situation in the country Yours shares a southern border with, the Sultanate will send a small task force to monitor the situation and to, if need should arise, interfere in defense of Kyrenaian Foreign Political Interests and assets of our citizens within Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines.
To this end, said task force will come close to territorial waters of Astoria and will be, without a doubt, monitored by vessels of the Astorian Navy (do not try to deny it, we would do the same in your situation). However, in order to alleviate any of your concerns and as a gesture of friendship and cooperation between our two great nations in this matter, for I am sure, that we both have similar objectives, I would like to propose three steps:

1. Astorian Officers will be hosted on Kyrenaian Vessels as observers and guests.
2. A vessel of the Kyrenaian Navy, the Meninx-class Destroyer RKN Tara, will make a port visit in a major port of Astoria.
3. Accompanying the Tara, or arriving on their own, will be a small ambassadorial mission, which will keep the contact between our two respective governments up - if we are able to, even when this crisis is over.

Mister President, please tell me, what you think.

Signed,

Mahmut al-Zahir,
Grand Vizier.

This message was sent to alleviate concerns on the Astorian side, to reach out with an olive branch, so to speak, so that both parties could leave with their diplomatic standings to each other intact and not in tatters.
And so that no one would have to have sleepless nights.
Who knew, maybe two important partners could be won instead of only one?
That the Kyrenaian assets in the area were minimal at best was not something, which one had to shout from all rooftops.

[Astoria]

To:

President Howard Nissen of Astoria.

From: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
Subject: A proposal.

Dear President Nissen,
in the name of the Sultana, Razia V., Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, I am to inform Your Excellency, that, in the light of the precarious situation in the country Yours shares a southern border with, the Sultanate will send a small task force to monitor the situation and to, if need should arise, interfere in defense of Kyrenaian Foreign Political Interests and assets of our citizens within Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines.
To this end, said task force will come close to territorial waters of Astoria and will be, without a doubt, monitored by vessels of the Astorian Navy (do not try to deny it, we would do the same in your situation). However, in order to alleviate any of your concerns and as a gesture of friendship and cooperation between our two great nations in this matter, for I am sure, that we both have similar objectives, I would like to propose three steps:

1. Astorian Officers will be hosted on Kyrenaian Vessels as observers and guests.
2. A vessel of the Kyrenaian Navy, the Meninx-class Destroyer RKN Tara, will make a port visit in a major port of Astoria.
3. Accompanying the Tara, or arriving on their own, will be a small ambassadorial mission, which will keep the contact between our two respective governments up - if we are able to, even when this crisis is over.

Mister President, please tell me, what you think.

Signed,

Mahmut al-Zahir,
Grand Vizier.

William Lucius Building
Columbia, Astoria

The headquarters of the State Department of Astoria, named for the first official ambassador ever sent out by the United States of Astoria, was a large white stone monolith a few blocks away from the Executive Mansion. The diplomatic message from the Sultanate of Kyrenaia had gone from the office of the Grand Vizier to the nearest Astorian diplomatic outpost, and from there it had been fed into the bureaucracy of the State Department until finally it was spat out on the shores of Undersecretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Andrew Samuel’s little island. Samuel was one of several Undersecretaries responsible for dealing with messages coming from the nations that populated that portion of the world, but this one stood out. Very soon it had been properly earmarked and sent up to the Secretary of State’s office.

Richard Arnold gave the message another close read, pausing to sip coffee from the warm mug in his hand. Astoria and Kyrenaia had no ties between them – no diplomatic exchange, no commercial interaction except through a number of intermediary actors, no history of engagement on the larger world stage. This missive from the Sultana’s Grand Vizier held the potential of a chance to change that. It would also lessen the chance that the Astorian fleet now mobilizing to sail for its “exercises” near the Morhaedine Group would get into a shooting war that nobody wanted.

Once he was reasonably sure he understood the terms of the proposal being offered, and that there were no hidden meanings that might be exploited, he picked up the phone back to Samuel’s office.

“Hey Andy,” Arnold said jovially. “I want you to take point on drafting a response to that message from Kyrenaia. Here’s what we’re going to say…”

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE - STANDARD DIPLOMATIC ENCRYPTION

FROM: Undersecretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Andrew Samuel, on behalf of the United States of Astoria
TO: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia
After considering your proposal, President Howard Nissen has agreed with his government to accept all three points laid out in your message. The Astorian Third Fleet will be conducting exercises near the Morhaedine Group; exchanging liaisons between our respective task forces will ensure that there are no unfortunate incidents between our vessels. The RKN Tara will be welcome at Williamsport, which is the closest major harbor and port city. Secretary of State Richard Arnold will be on-hand to greet your diplomatic team. It is the hope of President Nissen that this will be the beginning of a long and beneficial relationship between our two nations.

"If by chance they open fire, you are to return the same thing. Moving on, the Ambassador of Astoria has sent a communique stating her government's request for a meeting and humanitarian aid to be sent to the conflict area. As for Majapahit, they are willing to send support to us."

"Well, that's good," commented General Penhalligon.

"Indeed. Thank God we have business ties with them," responded Tresidder, "I'll ensure that communiques will be sent to each of them detailing relevant respective responses. Any other questions that you all have in mind?."

The room falls silent.

"Then carry on with your duties, everyone. God is calling us to defend this nation from this wanton dissent. This meeting is adjourned."

With that, the seats are made empty. As for the ministers, the Interior Minister was dismissed to oversee the functionality and stability of homeland security, while the Prime Minister was called upon by Tresidder to collaborate in composing his messages.

Astorian Embassy
Capital of Saint Sowena

Ambassador Rodelia Lernas shuffled the papers in front of her and looked over the faces of her team. “Alright, let’s go over everything one more time.”

Her aides were just as familiar with the material as she was, having helped put it all together. But Lernas was a firm believer in the benefits of frequent practice. Reviewing the information she would present at her meeting with the Sowenans would help ensure the information exchange went off without a hitch.

“We’ve begun to assemble the humanitarian coalition to gather and deliver aid,” the first aide opened. “It’s being run out of USEHCRO. Charles Walton has been named as Special Envoy, so he’ll be the point person for coordinating all the various actors.” The United States Emergency Humanitarian Crisis Relief Organization had languished under President Rexall, who hadn’t given humanitarian aid much room in his foreign policy. Under Nissen and the liberals, however, it had been revived with fresh funding and a reinvigorated mission - partially as a means of undoing some of the damage that Rexall’s strange blend of ideological realpolitik had done Astoria’s international reputation.

“I know Walton. He’ll do good by us,” Lernas said in a quick interjection. “So he’s our man in Columbia. Who’s going to be on the ground?”

“Michelle Rockton from IFHA,” a second aide took over. “She’ll have a seat on the first…whatever onto the island. She’ll be the one who oversees everything at the point of delivery.” The International Fund for Humanitarian Aid was a well-known relief NGO, though Lernas did not recognize Rockton by name. They had a track record of being able to effectively manage this kind of effort.

“And what are we hoping to deliver?”

“Primarily foodstuffs and medicine,” the third and final aide replied. “Clothing will likely be an item that donors provide in bulk. It’s hard to say exactly what we’ll want to send before we know what the situation is like.”

“And that’s where I come in.” Lernas rose from the table. “Alright, we’ll need to be leaving soon if we’re going to make our appointed time. Let’s get to work.”

Left unsaid was Lernas’ other mission for this meeting: attempting to get Tressider to agree to some sort of compromise deal that ended the civil war peacefully. The sooner the AFNL could be convinced to lay down their arms, the better. There were rumors of foreign fleets heading towards Saint Sowena, which meant they would also be heading towards Astoria. The Astorian homeland had not been attacked since the nineteenth century, and no one was in a hurry to end that streak.

[Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines]

This text will denote Cornish being spoken
This text will denote St. Sowenan Creole being spoken

---

2nd Floor, Presidential Palace: 11 August 1985, 9:07 AM GSST

"Was that one of the shortest meetings in my life," commented General Penhalligon, "Probably the shortest one I've ever had. I wish every meeting were like this. Short and concise."

"Well, we wouldn't know what we're talking about, would we," replied General Carkeek.

"Of course, of course," chuckled Penhalligon, "So how's Mabynia doing on your end?"

"It's been quiet a damn struggle. Guerillas are still roaming around Jacobstow's streets like fucking monkeys. One time, we were dealing with these three people who went from building to building and room to room in less than five seconds. My troops had to literally pursue for almost a day, until we eventually caught up to them. Honestly, we thought they were animals or something."

"I see," Penhalligon chuckled.

"Good thing I was able to put them in a standstill, otherwise I'd be sacked like General Daddow almost a month ago. Anyways, how's your situation in Jeffrenni?"

"I'd say it's a little bit easier than your's. Even though they have shown resilience in the past days, we're pushing them back little by little. Guess they're not as well trained as those in your island."

"Yeah, I could tell," Carkeek glances at his watch, "But there's the foreign armies we have to worry about."

"Yes, but don't forget there are at least some of them willing to help us out."

"Of course, but if the AFNL were to gain more foreign support directly, we'd have more difficult work ahead of us."

"Well, all we need to do now is think of ways to end the insurrection faster and smarter before we even know. It'll be hard, but it'll be worth it in the end. So, don't freak out, alright?"

"Indeed, thank you," Carkeek nodded, "Well, I'll be starting to head back south. Good luck on your work."

"See you later," Penhalligon greeted and waved.

Penhalligon continued to roam throughout the palace's plaza, finding a vase of Coreopsis flowers illuminated as bright as the sun in one of the corridors. He leans and touches a couple of petals of the front flower, letting himself be captivated by their smooth surfaces as he caresses with gliding momentum. Afterwards, he hears Generals U'Ren and Stephens call out his name, and his trance of admiration was switched off at an instant.

---

Presidential Palace: Over Two Hours Later

The President, Prime Minister, Interior Minister and State Secretary Medguistl Stephens stand next to each other, staring at the opening provided by the two columns of National Guard personnel gripping their rifles at the tip of the barrel. Then, the sight of a black limousine with miniature Astorian flags flailing came into their view, and as it stopped, they saw the ambassador in her allure emerge from the passenger compartment. They stood still as they observed her walking, ignoring the Guards raising their rifles from the ground and grasping them above it.

"Let's head over, shall we," said Tresidder as he cleared his throat and looked as if he were discontent under the smile.

At his word, the four head over to exchange handshakes and greetings with the ambassador. When all was said and done, they headed over to the presidential palace and into the Congregation Room.

[South Caleblan]

B-34 Military Training Grounds, 12th August, 1985.
"Lower...more lower....alright its good....NOW FIRE!" said a trainer on his student. "Hmm ... good. You managed to hit his head! Now we will practice ways to use machine guns." Meanwhile, Colonel Harpy Johhnos came and greeted his students. "Ah sir Johhnos ... welcome! Can I help you?" The colonel shook his head and immediately walked to the practice site. He then said to a teacher, Mr. Paler, "Are there developments in our students?" Mr. Paler answered yes and asked why the colonel suddenly arrived in a rush. Colonel Johhnos later replied, "I just heard that the King would intervene militarily in the Saint Sowenan Civil War". Mr. Paler was very surprised to hear that and he shook his head in surprise. Johhnos tapped Paler on the shoulder, then the Colonel board his car and before he left, he honked and left...

[Mervay]

August, 1985
St, Sowena and the Mohaedines was to fall into civil war, it wasn't something surprising for the Mervayan media back then since many believed that the country was doomed to it with all what the Tressider regime did during his time as president during twenty years, during both his time as elected president and "President for life". There were props that the guy helped the country but the benefits to who were led, to the close friends of the regime of course. Not only did they benefited with the regime but also the military which was accounted to have an decent and modern Air Force which was with the latest western tech of the date such as the F-16, F-15 and F-18 as fighters and so their helicopter fleet have saw Black Hawks and Chinooks as part of their fleet.
That was just an part of it's military which at the eyes of everyone was getting ready if an incident like this ever happened with such weaponry for fight the rebels, although there were some voices inside Mervay that called for an intervention in favor of them, of course, the idea was saw as crazy at first to the entire goverment and Royal Family, but after some thought there was an change of idea.

The regime falling meant an golden opportunity for business and for the goverment to have an stronghold on the Caribbean, after all, the benefits from help the nation could be saw on the long run if everything went right with the AFNL goverment.
So the decision was made for in the parlament for intervine on the end in the nation to the favor of the rebels. The law which authorized the intervention was signed by both the Prime Minister, Jacques Kagert and his Royal Highness Aurelius VII.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay

---

At the light of the recent incidents in St. Sowena and the Mohaedines, the Kingdom of Mervay has been worried about how the situation with the goverment of Caradoc Tressider and the handle of the situation with the rebels the Mervayan Goverment has authorized the deployment of an naval force to the waters of the island nation for keep an close eye on the situation until new advice.

Signed by:
-His Royal Highness Aurelius VII
-The Prime Minister of The Kingdom of Mervay Jacques Kagert
-Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonella Barzini

Special Communique from The Prime Minister and His Majesty Offices

---

Level of Encryption: High

To: The Armed Front for National Liberation.

This message has to be sent in secret for the moment so we apologize for all problems made because of it. We have sent this message with announcement of that The Kingdom of Mervay is supporting the AFNL even through in secret for the moment.
Right now we have sent an fleet that will provide your forces with close air supoort and with an land force that will help you out during your campaign against the goverment forces once hostilities escalate and our ships are close to the nation waters.

Signed by:
-His Royal Highness Aurelius VII
-The Prime Minister of The Kingdom of Mervay Jacques Kagert

Brest, Mervay
It was at night, the Mervayan Royal Navy Base at Brest was getting all some of their ships ready and loading the supplies and troops that were to be sent to St. Sowena and the Mohaedines in support of the rebels.
The ground force was part of the Royal Marines meanwhile the naval force was from the Third Fleet.

And so, this operation required the command of an Marine, Major General Marcello Bertaggia; Marcello was part of the Marines since the mid 60's and he was deployed in many conflicts which the nation has taken part, his experience mostly in warm areas was the reason why he was to be deployed as head of the operation.
Bertaggia knew very well that this would be an risky operation and one that would take an long time and would need of support from the other branches in case things went completly south, although for now he will need to make magic with what he has for now on.

It took another hour for have everything set for sail to the other side of the atlantic, then all ships begun to sail, one by one to the open waters of the atlantic, en route to an warzone in where they will stay for an long time.

[Kyrenaia]

[...]

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE - STANDARD DIPLOMATIC ENCRYPTION

FROM: Undersecretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Andrew Samuel, on behalf of the United States of Astoria
TO: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia
After considering your proposal, President Howard Nissen has agreed with his government to accept all three points laid out in your message. The Astorian Third Fleet will be conducting exercises near the Morhaedine Group; exchanging liaisons between our respective task forces will ensure that there are no unfortunate incidents between our vessels. The RKN Tara will be welcome at Williamsport, which is the closest major harbor and port city. Secretary of State Richard Arnold will be on-hand to greet your diplomatic team. It is the hope of President Nissen that this will be the beginning of a long and beneficial relationship between our two nations.

[...]

Al-Zahir held the piece of paper with the printout of the message and smiled.
His smile was a nice one as he handed the message over the table to the Sultana, who took it with less enthusiasm. She was still grieving, still mourning, still crying herself to sleep with the little Prince Damir, barely three years of age, close to her. The poor lad was completely overchallenged, but he did his best.
"So?", she asked.
"Hook, line and sinker.", al-Zahir said, "And the fishing rod, too."
"The plan was to allow foreign officers on our vessels, start diplomatic relations with someone, who borders a country in a civil war, which we took interest in on the side opposing their traditional friend... and they agreed. And you say, that they bought... what?", the Sultana asked.
Al-Zahir smiled.
"It's simple, really.", he said, "With demonstrating our good will towards Astoria, starting to cooperate with them - we will. We will intercept every ship trying to interfere that isn't Astorian or of a humanitarian mission, which tries to aid Tresidder and we can get our hands on, as well as a few for the AFNL - considerably less then for Tresidder, but a few. They will be interned in Astoria by international right and law. Kyrenaian planes will fly patrols to indeed find those ships and if they, by sheer coincidence, also find a few things out about Tresidder's forces and that, by even sheerer coincidence, finds its way to the AFNL..."
He shrugged.
"You're a shrewd man.", the Sultana said after a moment, "But no, we will do this with honesty and respect towards the Astorians. We have a good chance here."
"But..."
"No.", the Sultana forbade, "You are shrewd, yes, but we will not risk any of the good will we were offered - and we will win the Astorians as friends... which will be more useful in the long run."
"I understand.", the politician clarified, then got ready to rise, "If you permit?"
"Sure.", the Sultana replied with a nod and al-Zahir went.

RKN Alsayd. Out at sea.
Vice Admiral Admir Safina was a dark-skinned man with dense facial hair, a moustache and a chin beard, deep in his sixties. He was born in the 30s, had seen the Decolonization Wars, fought in them and worked his way up.
He had liked Sultan Kian and at first, he hadn't liked the new girl in town, Razia, but he had begun to see things her way. The budget for the military had been in the need to be slashed to rebuild what was still there.
When he had been sent to sea, he had first asked himself, where the bloody hell Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines was and when he had looked it up - he had noticed Astoria. The order to cooperate with the Astorian Third Fleet had not been too much of a surprise.
As the Kyrenaians were approaching with all bells tolling, their radars spinning, a Carrier Air Patrol in the air, regular submarine sweeps being conducted - soon, the Astorians would be able to catch the first glimpses of the Fleet Group Alsayd - ten vessels of war, their supply ships lagging behind.
He had in his hands orders to alter course by a smidgen to take aboard a diplomat to talk to the Astorians and his lintseeker. It would delay them considerably... but...
"The Tara should detach and hurry to that set of new coordinates.", he ordered, "And prepare to take a diplomat aboard." The communications officer went to work. "And tell the rest to slow down by five knots. After Tara has that diplomat, they should catch up and we will go back to full steam."
"Tara confirms.", the Communications officer said after a moment.
"Very good. I'm in my office. Keep up the work.", he ordered and turned before he heard the confirmation of the order.

[Kuronami]

Caloris Kuronami, August, 1985

Who to take sides in one nation's civil war? That's always a harder call. Support the wrong person you may install someone you'll come to regret, take no action someone might act against you. Well either way this wasn't Kuronami's concern. Someone's far off war when they had their own issues at home to face. But if there's something Kuronami believed in was compassion and a helping hand. Everyone in the nation had to step up to serve their country and community in some sense and community didn't just end at Kuronami's border.

Emperor Alfred Hermánn had been following the news of the war and debating if they should intervene or not. There was no moral obligation to intervene no economic incentive. Most stood largely opposed to direct military action and Monarchs often fall by their own sword. Watching TV news with his Foreign Minister, Ignatius Ursul both men were largely quiet as the reports tallied up the latest casualties from all side and the human cost. "Ignatius, what do you think about it?" Alfred asked him. "Well, Milord it's an impossible situation. The matters in St. Sowenan don't really concern Kuronami or any of our territories."

"And direct military action by us would likely be seen as an invasion. Another notch for our Empire. We're still reeling from our occupation of those insignificant island in the south seas."

"Don't get me started there."

"What's your Concern, Milord? Of course you're always a generous man who cares much about the world around him but there's so much involvement already"

"I suppose I always took that old quote to heart, standing by let's evil go forward. Well I'm heavily paraphrasing that of course."

"Well Milord it's your call."

About a day passed and the Emperor called upon his nation's ears to listen. Approaching the podium in the garden just outside the palace of #1 Verona Avenue to a crowd of reporters and press and TV cameras pointed at him.

"News has been filled with the latest about conflicts around the world and close to home. Of course it may seem like it never ends. But Kuronami has stood proud as a nation that will help when called upon and help those in need. Our Civil Service and Military are known for efficient peacekeeping and humanitarian calls to those who ask. When we annexed Mazomba to our efforts in the South Seas to bring help to nations. Which is why I have authorized a small peacekeeping force to be deployed. This is not an invasion or a war force but a police action to maintain order in conflict zones of destruction and chaos. This is why it must be called upon our trained military as opposed to our Civil Service Corp. I want it to be known to all sides of this conflict our mission is to the people caught in the middle as much as it is to you. Medical aid will not be refused, food aid will not be refused. Those who ask for help will get it. We will supply no weapons and no other munitions or aid to either side. Let us do our job effectively and we will see it through long after the boots have finished. I will address the press further this evening, in the meantime I have to address my Staff and prepare mission plans."

Walking off back inside not addressing any further questions until later he met up with his staff as said he would.

Kane Township, 12 KM North West of Caloris

a small country town host to one of the nation's oldest noble families, The Eylstadt cousins of His Majesty the Emperor and noble lords of the Domain of their namesake. Complex family trees and linage always made things odd. Watching his eldest son begin to walk was Colonel Joslyn Eylstadt along with his wife, Fidelia, already pregnant with their second child. "Come on, Donny, you can do it come to daddy, alright that's my boy!" His little son quickly toddled over to his father whom scooped him up into his arms "Ah I knew you could do it my son! Aha."

The family's maid servant Charlotte Rose came out to the garden. "Sir, there is a phone call for you."

"Oh all right then. Here you go why don't you go with mom a while and" he unloaded his son into her arms "Oh don't worry son, he'll be back." She assured when he fussed a little. "oooh." She felt the kick of her other baby. "Honestly you, I swear you're eager to be born." patting her little bulge she sat down again with her son in the bench swing.

Joslyn walked into the den and taking the phone, "Joslyn here." He listened to the other end. "I understand. Yes I'll report first thing. All right." He set the phone down. This wasn't going to be easy to tell his pregnant wife he just got called up for duty. On top of that it was hard knowing he was going to miss the birth of his next son. And it was a day of long discussion indeed ending with "All right but you owe me a daughter when you get back and her hair had better be as long and golden as my own!"

"All right, all right, I'll do my best, love." He kissed her.

Fort Kane, Three Weeks Later

His family affairs taken care of and briefed on the mission at hand a Now a group of men and women had long assembled under his leadership as Colonel. Given this was a minor military intervention it was deemed Joslyn's experience as colonel was plenty as opposed to sending a major general. If it came to it Kuronami's Military would send higher leadership or reinforcements but for now this seemed enough. "Attention!" Shouted out his second in command, Ltc. Frank Varden. Joslyn nodded in approval and began to speak.

"At ease." He stated. "Men, women, we've worked hard and trained. We all know each other. Three weeks is pretty short for a quick training but remember what our goals are. We will do our mission and this mission will likely last many years. Many of us will likely be rotated in and out of duty as it goes on. But we're the first in, we have a difficult task ahead of us. Those who follow us will depend greatly on our efforts to begin stabilizing and building trust. We're the damned best at what we do, that's why we're going in first. We're going to miss holidays with our families, important events, birthdays, anniversaries, some the birth of our children. I know it's easy to think about that and it's good because it means you have something you want to fight for. But also keep your minds focused on the mission and on each other here. Let's get back to the ones we love and let's continue to make a better world for the ones we love. Let's show what Kuronami is about as a nation that wants to help those in need. Tomorrow at 0400 we ship out to a far off land. Get some rest."

"Company dismissed!"


On schedule the next morning the massive C-130s took to the skies loaded with the troops and equipment. No mistake was made even if they were there as a neutral peace keeping force this was a dangerous mission. Not everyone would want them there and not everyone would be so willing to cooperate. But they were there to make sure aid got to where it was needed and not being seized by warring parties and that often meant having to protect it with force. Ideally the weapons they carried were only there for defense. Many of these men and women working had experience of military but there were plenty of fresh faces there as well, people here for their conscription service.

First order of business was to survey the islands and that was up to high flying recon aircraft first. Not knowing exactly where anyone was could be dangerous and they needed an ideal buffer zone to keep safe. Such expansive territory meant this would be difficult to be close to populations in need and getting access where it needed so that's where air support from helicopters and airplanes came in. Jeeps for short range ground travel and humvees for protection if needed.

Covering their basses extra messages were sent out:

The Empire of Kuronami Foreign Agency Communication

Encryption Level: None

To All Parties Concerned,

It should be known by now through the buzzings of international press and other diplomatic channels Kuronami has entered the conflict in Saint Sowenan as a neutral disengagement force. Our forces are light but here to help in the humanitarian needs of the nation and its people but we will also offer needed services to those in the conflict by giving medical aid, evacuating POWs in mutual exchanges providing transport security for diplomats, evacuations, food and supply runs and more. These troops of ours are armed to protect themselves and will respond if acted upon in an aggressive manner. Colonel Joslyn Eylstadt is leading this mission in the name of His Majesty Emperor Alfred Hermánn. Concerns and Questions can be forwarded to our Foreign Agency for direct support those on the ground can diplomatically engage him.

Regards,
Ignatius Ursul Agent of The State of Kuronami

[Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines]

I apologize this took so long.

Jacobstow, Baragwanath District, Mabynia Island: 11 August 1985, 3:06 PM GSST

The city had been divided into two halves: the western side belonging to the government and the eastern side the AFNL. On a street containing an intersection with marred stores placed opposite of each other from other ends of the crossing, there are two sets of barricades that provided a border: on the government side, a wall of aligned sandbags; on the liberator side, a wall made up of whatever stuff they could grab and place. Silence filled the air as both sides remained at their positions, with their men in pairs watching at their own pace at great caution, as if wishing they weren't so near to each other.

Anaoc Menhenick glances from the side of the AFNL, staring as he grips his AR-15 rifle by the barrel and handle along with a few others with other rifles and an M2 Browning in the middle. As he glares with caution and determination, he picks out a few soldiers that seem to stare at his very eyes and of the entire defense line across from them from left to right and back. He, however, does not seem to notice the steps of his close friend, Tristan Angwin, approaching him from behind.

"Some meat," asked Tristan.

Anaoc turns and jumps like a rabbit.

"Goddamn it, Tristan," replied Anaoc, "Don't fucking do that!"

"Mate, I swear, that's never going to get old," Tristan chuckled.

"Can't you just call my name?"

"Why should I, Anao-cat? Anyways, you want some?"

Sighing, Anaoc puts his gun down and grabs the plate in Tristan's hands, whilst turning his head away from him. He then sits by the wall of the herb shop to relax himself further, prompting Tristan to do the same.

"So, what's going on on your end," Anaoc asked as he chews.

"Nothing much. Captain's telling us to keep watch. Though, we did grab whatever food we saw at Sambell's Carribean just to the right of this block, especially this dish. Real good, man. Ah! I never had this in a long time," Tristan shakes his head.

"I was just about to say that. What's this dish called again?"

"Tassot."

"Well, now I know what to order," Anaoc snickered.

"That's good! I'll be sure to bring you some whenever you come by or catch another Sambell's on the way.

"Thank you, but---"

"Guys, guns up. Truck coming in," exclaimed an AFNL soldier.

Both Anaoc and Tristan rose up in haste and poke their heads up with rifles, but only to be interrupted with a rocket-propelled projectile zooming pass over their heads, which made Anaoc hold his gun hastily as if hoping to block it. Gunfire soon erupted from both sides, leaving both of them to leave their meals to sit on a nearby crate like abandoned children.

---

AFNL Headquarters, Neotville, Kelly Bray District, Mabynia Island: 11 August 1985, 3:17 PM GSST

The leaders of the AFNL, Guentanet Pendarvis of the Liberation Army for a Democratic St. Sowena, Myrmen Trerice of the National Communist Workers' Front, Rudhek Price of the Socialist Front of St. Sowena, and Iudicael Bohenno of the Free Republic Army are deliberating on the current situations in their frontlines. Then suddenly, an ANFL soldier comes into the war room and salutes.

"Sirs, I beg to report," he requested.

"What do you have for us," asked Pendarvis.

"I have an official communique from the Mervayan Government."

"Bring it over here," ordered Price.

Doing as he has been requested, the messenger placed the printout of the Mervayan communique onto the table for the leaders to read. As time passed, their faces were riddled with jovial astonishment.

"This is great news, exclaimed Trerice, "Great news! Now we know that we are not alone in our struggle!"

"Indeed," commended Bohenno, "We could use the help. Especially with Tresidder having the entire military upon us.

Pendarvis and Price nod and hum in confirmation.

"I have some more news," the messenger said, sensing the right time to interrupt.

"Tell us," replied Trerice.

"The Kyrenaians have sent a naval detachment to meet up with the Astorians," he announced, "They'll be conducting negotiations on whatever matters they'll present.

"Hopefully, it won't be that bad," commented Price.

"Go on," said Pendarvis.

"The Kuronamians will be sending peacekeepers and foreign aid to provide humanitarian aid"

"Well, that doesn't help much," said Trerice.

"Relax, Mr. Trerice," chimed Pendarvis, "We must be able to provide them with a good amount of respect and assistance if needed. It will give us more good reputation from other foreign nations that are aware of what's going on here, which would lead them to support us. We would be seen as freedom fighters with a valid and just cause."

"I guess," Trerice nodded.

"We'll write and send them our collective response to them at this time. You are dismissed, my good friend.," Pendarvis saluted.

With that, the messenger was off to his duties.

"I take it that you fellows have no further inquiries about this matter, and of the current situation at this moment?"

The other leaders reply with "none."

"Good. Now, my friends, even with foreign assistance, we must make sure that we make good use of it. Let's get writing, shall we," Pendarvis grinned.

The leaders nod and proceed to work on their appropriate responses.

---

Official Communiqué of the Leadership of the Armed Front for National Liberation

---

To: The Government of the Kingdom of Mervay
Encryption Level: High

We are grateful and thankful for your consideration of support for our movement and cause. It will assist us greatly in freeing us from the reins and chains of tyranny. Do whatever you can to provide us with the help we need.

Sincerely,
Guentanet Pendarvis, Myrmen Trerice, Rudhek Price, Iudicael Bohenno

Official Communiqué of the Leadership of the Armed Front for National Liberation

---

To: The Government of the Empire of Kuronami
Encryption Level: Medium

We welcome your humanitarian aid that will perform its duties throughout the country. We will ensure that their presence is acknowledged by our troops and us leaders, and their proclamation of neutrality is respected with high regard. Although, I hope you'll take the ideals and cause we are fighting for to your consideration(s).

Sincerely,
Guentanet Pendarvis, Myrmen Trerice, Rudhek Price, Iudicael Bohenno

[South Caleblan]

Royal Palace Meeting Room, August 1985.

---

Officials, generals, prime ministers, defense ministers, and a number of journalists, even the King gathered at the Royal Palace to hear the decision of military intervention in the Saint Sowenan Civil War. Millions of eyes and ears gather to hear whether South Caleblan will intervene. "All right. All representatives should sit down" said the King. "Today I have announced that we will intervene militarily in Saint Sowenan Civil War" explain the King. The king (King Janet III) handed a piece of paper.

Intervention on
Saint Sowenan Civil War

---

These papers are papers for approval of military intervention in Saint Sowena and can be used in the future. I expect you to make your decision and there is no second chance to change your decision. If you agree, please sign this paper, if not, leave this paper blank.


Signed by...


Signed at Royal Palace

All officials signed the paper and it was determined that South Caleblan would send troops to Saint Sowena.

[Kyrenaia]

Caloris Kuronami, August, 1985

Who to take sides in one nation's civil war? That's always a harder call. Support the wrong person you may install someone you'll come to regret, take no action someone might act against you. Well either way this wasn't Kuronami's concern. Someone's far off war when they had their own issues at home to face. But if there's something Kuronami believed in was compassion and a helping hand. Everyone in the nation had to step up to serve their country and community in some sense and community didn't just end at Kuronami's border.

Emperor Alfred Hermánn had been following the news of the war and debating if they should intervene or not. There was no moral obligation to intervene no economic incentive. Most stood largely opposed to direct military action and Monarchs often fall by their own sword. Watching TV news with his Foreign Minister, Ignatius Ursul both men were largely quiet as the reports tallied up the latest casualties from all side and the human cost. "Ignatius, what do you think about it?" Alfred asked him. "Well, Milord it's an impossible situation. The matters in St. Sowenan don't really concern Kuronami or any of our territories."

"And direct military action by us would likely be seen as an invasion. Another notch for our Empire. We're still reeling from our occupation of those insignificant island in the south seas."

"Don't get me started there."

"What's your Concern, Milord? Of course you're always a generous man who cares much about the world around him but there's so much involvement already"

"I suppose I always took that old quote to heart, standing by let's evil go forward. Well I'm heavily paraphrasing that of course."

"Well Milord it's your call."

About a day passed and the Emperor called upon his nation's ears to listen. Approaching the podium in the garden just outside the palace of #1 Verona Avenue to a crowd of reporters and press and TV cameras pointed at him.

"News has been filled with the latest about conflicts around the world and close to home. Of course it may seem like it never ends. But Kuronami has stood proud as a nation that will help when called upon and help those in need. Our Civil Service and Military are known for efficient peacekeeping and humanitarian calls to those who ask. When we annexed Mazomba to our efforts in the South Seas to bring help to nations. Which is why I have authorized a small peacekeeping force to be deployed. This is not an invasion or a war force but a police action to maintain order in conflict zones of destruction and chaos. This is why it must be called upon our trained military as opposed to our Civil Service Corp. I want it to be known to all sides of this conflict our mission is to the people caught in the middle as much as it is to you. Medical aid will not be refused, food aid will not be refused. Those who ask for help will get it. We will supply no weapons and no other munitions or aid to either side. Let us do our job effectively and we will see it through long after the boots have finished. I will address the press further this evening, in the meantime I have to address my Staff and prepare mission plans."

Walking off back inside not addressing any further questions until later he met up with his staff as said he would.

Kane Township, 12 KM North West of Caloris

a small country town host to one of the nation's oldest noble families, The Eylstadt cousins of His Majesty the Emperor and noble lords of the Domain of their namesake. Complex family trees and linage always made things odd. Watching his eldest son begin to walk was Colonel Joslyn Eylstadt along with his wife, Fidelia, already pregnant with their second child. "Come on, Donny, you can do it come to daddy, alright that's my boy!" His little son quickly toddled over to his father whom scooped him up into his arms "Ah I knew you could do it my son! Aha."

The family's maid servant Charlotte Rose came out to the garden. "Sir, there is a phone call for you."

"Oh all right then. Here you go why don't you go with mom a while and" he unloaded his son into her arms "Oh don't worry son, he'll be back." She assured when he fussed a little. "oooh." She felt the kick of her other baby. "Honestly you, I swear you're eager to be born." patting her little bulge she sat down again with her son in the bench swing.

Joslyn walked into the den and taking the phone, "Joslyn here." He listened to the other end. "I understand. Yes I'll report first thing. All right." He set the phone down. This wasn't going to be easy to tell his pregnant wife he just got called up for duty. On top of that it was hard knowing he was going to miss the birth of his next son. And it was a day of long discussion indeed ending with "All right but you owe me a daughter when you get back and her hair had better be as long and golden as my own!"

"All right, all right, I'll do my best, love." He kissed her.

Fort Kane, Three Weeks Later

His family affairs taken care of and briefed on the mission at hand a Now a group of men and women had long assembled under his leadership as Colonel. Given this was a minor military intervention it was deemed Joslyn's experience as colonel was plenty as opposed to sending a major general. If it came to it Kuronami's Military would send higher leadership or reinforcements but for now this seemed enough. "Attention!" Shouted out his second in command, Ltc. Frank Varden. Joslyn nodded in approval and began to speak.

"At ease." He stated. "Men, women, we've worked hard and trained. We all know each other. Three weeks is pretty short for a quick training but remember what our goals are. We will do our mission and this mission will likely last many years. Many of us will likely be rotated in and out of duty as it goes on. But we're the first in, we have a difficult task ahead of us. Those who follow us will depend greatly on our efforts to begin stabilizing and building trust. We're the damned best at what we do, that's why we're going in first. We're going to miss holidays with our families, important events, birthdays, anniversaries, some the birth of our children. I know it's easy to think about that and it's good because it means you have something you want to fight for. But also keep your minds focused on the mission and on each other here. Let's get back to the ones we love and let's continue to make a better world for the ones we love. Let's show what Kuronami is about as a nation that wants to help those in need. Tomorrow at 0400 we ship out to a far off land. Get some rest."

"Company dismissed!"


On schedule the next morning the massive C-130s took to the skies loaded with the troops and equipment. No mistake was made even if they were there as a neutral peace keeping force this was a dangerous mission. Not everyone would want them there and not everyone would be so willing to cooperate. But they were there to make sure aid got to where it was needed and not being seized by warring parties and that often meant having to protect it with force. Ideally the weapons they carried were only there for defense. Many of these men and women working had experience of military but there were plenty of fresh faces there as well, people here for their conscription service.

First order of business was to survey the islands and that was up to high flying recon aircraft first. Not knowing exactly where anyone was could be dangerous and they needed an ideal buffer zone to keep safe. Such expansive territory meant this would be difficult to be close to populations in need and getting access where it needed so that's where air support from helicopters and airplanes came in. Jeeps for short range ground travel and humvees for protection if needed.

Covering their basses extra messages were sent out:

(Image)

The Empire of Kuronami Foreign Agency Communication

Encryption Level: None

To All Parties Concerned,

It should be known by now through the buzzings of international press and other diplomatic channels Kuronami has entered the conflict in Saint Sowenan as a neutral disengagement force. Our forces are light but here to help in the humanitarian needs of the nation and its people but we will also offer needed services to those in the conflict by giving medical aid, evacuating POWs in mutual exchanges providing transport security for diplomats, evacuations, food and supply runs and more. These troops of ours are armed to protect themselves and will respond if acted upon in an aggressive manner. Colonel Joslyn Eylstadt is leading this mission in the name of His Majesty Emperor Alfred Hermánn. Concerns and Questions can be forwarded to our Foreign Agency for direct support those on the ground can diplomatically engage him.

Regards,
Ignatius Ursul Agent of The State of Kuronami

To: Ignatius Ursul, Agent of The State of Kuronami.

From: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
Subject: Humanitarian Aid in the Saint Sowenan Civil War.

Your Excellency,
the Government of Kyrenaia has received your message about the Kuronami Involvement in the Civil War in Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines. In the name of the Sultana, I am to express Kyrenaia's respect for that action.
Please relay to Colonel Eylstadt, that if he ever is in distress, he can count on Kyrenaia's protection. Vice Admiral Safina was instructed accordingly.

Signed,
Mahmut al-Zahir,
Grand Vizier.

RKN Alsayd, still en-route to Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines.
By now, the destroyer Tara, with the diplomat aboard, a certain Mister Admir Ahmar, had rejoined the small force. The diplomat made a solid and good impression and he had new orders.
Kyrenaia had never been a paragon of international laws, they would be the first ones to admit that, but they did respect the sanctity of diplomats and humanitarian efforts. If there would be the need, the Colonel would find Kyrenaian aid.
And, more importantly, it would, maybe, give the Kyrenaians a good reason to intervene.
If the AFNL or their direct supporters would attack the humanitarian helpers, Tressider would be introduced to Kyrenaian bombs unless the evidence was undeniable. If the dictator under siege would attack humanitarian helpers, and if the evidence was as far-fetched as one could believe, he would be introduced to Kyrenaian bombs.
If neither attacked the humanitarian helpers... then, in accordance with the new foreign political guidelines of the Sultana, they would have to find another reason.
If that failed, too... well, it was always nice to sail.
The Vice Admiral supressed the urge to groan.
This was giving him a headache... where were the old times go, when the Kyrenaians were on one side and the rebelling colonies were on the other and the Kyrenaians had air superiority?
Those had been the days...

[Kuronami]

To: Ignatius Ursul, Agent of The State of Kuronami.

From: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
Subject: Humanitarian Aid in the Saint Sowenan Civil War.

Your Excellency,
the Government of Kyrenaia has received your message about the Kuronami Involvement in the Civil War in Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines. In the name of the Sultana, I am to express Kyrenaia's respect for that action.
Please relay to Colonel Eylstadt, that if he ever is in distress, he can count on Kyrenaia's protection. Vice Admiral Safina was instructed accordingly.

Signed,
Mahmut al-Zahir,
Grand Vizier.

RE:

TO: Grand Vizier Mahmut al-Zahir, Grand Vizier and Head of Government of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia
FROM: Ignatius Ursul, Agent of State Empire of Kuronami
ENCRYPTION: HIGH


Honorable Vizier,

Your message has been received to us and we're grateful for your cooperation. News of this message has also been forwarded to the Colonel and we're sure he will feel the same. Take of note our troops will be on patrols in the area though if you have concerns and needs to be addressed, Camp Foxtrot will be of access to you. These coordinates of 25°4′N 77°20′W. Please alert our Military Liaison, CPO Mirindia Abercrombie whenever possible ahead of visitations from stationed military in the region or other diplomatic staff. All will still be subject to checkpoint inspection but this process can be made easier when we all cooperate.

Thank you,
Ignatius Ursul RAS

TO: The Leadership of the Armed Front for National Liberation
FROM: The Government of Kuronami
Encryption Level: MEDIUM

To Whom it May Concern,

Thank you for your reply to us. We appreciate the cooperation of the AFNL in our efforts to help calm the situation and help those in need. We are still studying the conflict carefully before deciding if any full military invention is needed but for now we feel this is a good start. If you have further concerns, please contact our Government or for more direct communique with our troops on the ground, our Military Liaison, CPO Mirindia Abercrombie can also be of assistance for your immediate needs. We'll continue to be in touch

Until then,
Ignatius Ursul RAS

---

CAMP FOXTROT

Since landing and establishing the first thing was first was to stake a little claim of land, so to speak. It was makeshift, ideally able to be taken down if a bug out was needed. A runway, flight pad and of course quarters and facilities all set up. Right now The Colonel and his staff were looking over surveillance maps determining which areas were hot zones and ones to likely avoid unless needed, which areas would be in need of assistance. "Ariel chopper units can follow along this path for general patrol and supply runs. More risky missions into hot zones we can approach --"

"Sir!" A young Captain entered with message in hand. "At Ease, Captain, what is it?"

"Pardon the interruption but this just arrived for you, MLZ deemed it vital."

"Thank you, dismissed."

The young Captain promptly left as soon as ordered. Joslyn reading over the message grinned just a little. "Well, guess we have our first fan. The Kyrenian Government has pledged their support to us."

"The government clearly on one side why would they want to help us?"

"Easy does it, Frank, regardless of where anyone stands the point of being neutral is not taking sides one way or the other. If people want to support us from either side it just will make our job easier. So I'm willing to consider them our friends here."

"Well all right, Sir." next call to order let's make it clear our rules of engagement. Lieutenant Matsumoto has finished her outlines on that we'll be ready to brief what's needed. "

"Perfect. Now let's see if we can dispatch back to Caloris we're going to need an additional batch of maintenance personal."

[Ninawa]

Ninawan Governmental Complex, August 1985

Its a rainy, cloudy day in Teshkent, the countries capital city. The governmental part of the city looks empty, only a few cars can be spotted infront of the big, blocky looking concrete structures, in which the Ninawan Government resides.

Someone knocks on the door.

"Presidente, Sir.. an urgent message." A small figure blasts into the Presidents Chambers while chanting those words. "A Civil War has broken out in the Nation of S..Saint Soe-Sowenan, Sir."

A black figure spins around in a chair. The figure stops and looks at the small advisor.

"Saint Sowenan? How come?" the figure says while puffing on a cigar. The Advisor hands him a small folder. The President opens it and reads for a couple of minutes.

"Right, I understand.. uh, yeah. As far as I'm concerned.. the Saint Sowenan's need our help.. well Tresidder does.. not the rebels ofcourse.." the figure says. "Call the Chief of Staff and the Defence Minister, we'll have a meeting."

"Yes, Sir!" the small advisor shouts before moving out of the room.

About an hour later.

"Gentleman, this requires all of our thinking. President Tresidder needs assistance. Many Nations stand with him, but there are many nations who also stand infront of him, trying to knock him over if you know what I mean. If the so called 'Rebels' win, then we will loose valuable business and trading ties.. right?" The President looks over to the Advisor, who in question quickly nods. The President continues speaking. "Yeah, well.. I think we should do something. General's? Any uh.. Ideas?"

"Full Military Invasion." a big figure says while standing up. Its the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. "Attack the Rebel-strongholds and wipe them off the map with our newest military equipment."

"No.. no.." some Advisors can be heard yelling. "We can not openly fight the 'Rebels' and risk the other Nations turning against us! We should do it secretely." another Advisor says.

The President tries to calm down the room. "All right, all right. I have an Idea. Prepare a Telegram to President Tresidder. Encrypt it to the highest level." he says before nodding to his ontourage and leaving the room.

To: President Tresidder
From: President and Supreme Leader of the Republic of Ninawa
ENCRYPTION LEVEL: HIGHEST

Greetings, I am the President of the Republic of Ninawa. We know each other from doing business together in the past, though you might not remember.
We have found out, that you have some kind of struggle going on in your country and we would like to offer our help.
Ninawa will send a battalion of trained ex-soldiers and mercenaries to your Islands to defeat the 'Rebels' on the ground.
Officially, Ninawa will stay Neutral but behind the scenes we will fully support you and your regime.
All we need for that is:

-A safe airbase for the Cargoplanes to land
-A space where the Battalion can set up base and headquarters

After the battalion set itself up, you can tell us where you want the mercenaries to be stationed and what you would like them to do and we'll put them there.
You won't command the Battalion directly, but rather give us the message and we'll give the Orders to its Commander, Lt. Col Christopher Reimann, one of our best. He'll lead the troops.
You won't have to do anything at all. Logistics and supply will be handled by us exclusively.
If you have any more questions or conditions, please wire them to us immediatly.

Warm Greetings.

[Imperial Majapahit]

Undisclosed location
St. Sowena and the Morhaedines
12 August 1985, 11:00am local time

---

The first Majapahiti soldiers landed on a major air base on the island of Jeffreni and Mabynia as they disembarked from the C-130J Super Hercules transporters. Besides armed personnel, there were also shipments of weaponry, light equipment, and several BTR-80 APCs unloaded from the aircraft. However, these were just the beginning; more troops and supplies were on their way from Majapahit, some were being flown in, while the rest were to be shipped through sea. These were all allocated to the defence of St. Sowena in its conflict against the rebellious AFNL forces.

Imperial Guards Col. Janapada Poltangan, the commanding officer in charge of all current Majapahiti operations in St. Sowena, stood with his hands resting on his hips. Beside him stood a somewhat shorter man, a non-commissioned officer he'd assigned as his personal aide. He had a clip board on one hand and a pen on the other, every once in a while he'd jot down a few words on the slip of paper attached. The two men overlooked the disembarkation of Majapahiti troops and shipments of various supplies in the distance.

"So far, the Delta and Echo armoured platoons have arrived, Colonel," the aide informed Poltangan. "In total, 8 Leopards and 12 BTRs. As well as a bit over 400 men, sir. Lieutenant Colonel Suhadi reported that the 201st Battalion under his command will be moved to a forward operations base as soon as Foxtrot platoon lands... approximately in 20 minutes."

The colonel nodded slowly in acknowledgement. "Good. At this rate, Phase I will be finished in under 72 hours." Poltangan turned to face his subordinate. "Please do inform Command to speed things up a bit. The quicker our men get here, the better."

[Astoria]

Presidential Palace: Over Two Hours Later

The President, Prime Minister, Interior Minister and State Secretary Medguistl Stephens stand next to each other, staring at the opening provided by the two columns of National Guard personnel gripping their rifles at the tip of the barrel. Then, the sight of a black limousine with miniature Astorian flags flailing came into their view, and as it stopped, they saw the ambassador in her allure emerge from the passenger compartment. They stood still as they observed her walking, ignoring the Guards raising their rifles from the ground and grasping them above it.

"Let's head over, shall we," said Tresidder as he cleared his throat and looked as if he were discontent under the smile.

At his word, the four head over to exchange handshakes and greetings with the ambassador. When all was said and done, they headed over to the presidential palace and into the Congregation Room.

Presidential Palace
Saint Sowena

The limousine rolled to a perfect stop, framing the passenger doorway in the middle of the two rows of National Guardsmen. First out of the door was a member of the Diplomatic Protection Service, wearing an immaculate suit with an earbud visible in one ear. He held the door open for Ambassador Rodelia Lernas, who stepped out of the limousine wearing a light colored pantsuit. She nodded once at the National Guardsmen as she walked between them to the waiting Sowenan leadership, acknowledging their presence and the precision of their movements.

“President Tressider,” she said in greeting as she shook the proffered hands. “Thank you for agreeing to this meeting on such short notice. I’m sure you have many pressing issues crossing your desk.”

Once in the Congregation Room and the various introductions and formalities had been said, Ambassador Lernas began to present her position.

“This recent outbreak of violence is troubling for the region as a whole,” Lernas said. “Beyond the capacity for a humanitarian crisis, my government is worried about the potential intrusion of outsider foreign nations.” Left unsaid was the worry that any state which helped Tressider put down the rebellion, or assisted the AFNL in overthrowing him, would remain in Saint Sowena, with a perfect natural base from which to threaten the Astorian homeland.

“On the humanitarian side, my government has instructed me to ask your permission to begin delivering humanitarian aid – food and medicine, especially – to those areas affected by the fighting. This would be done primarily by non-governmental organizations, coordinated by the Astorian Emergency Humanitarian Crisis Relief Organization. I give you my assurances that this aid will be entirely non-military in nature and will be intended solely for noncombatants caught in the crossfire.”

“Second, President Adams has expressed his desire to see this conflict ended peacefully.” This was the far more delicate proposal. If Tressider saw his chances of crushing the rebellion with force as good, he would be unlikely to sit down at the negotiating table. “If there is a chance that some sort of deal could be reached – of course one that would involve the rebels standing down and disarming – the United States would be happy to provide mediation for hammering out that deal.”

RKN Alsayd. Out at sea.
He had in his hands orders to alter course by a smidgen to take aboard a diplomat to talk to the Astorians and his lintseeker. It would delay them considerably... but...
"The Tara should detach and hurry to that set of new coordinates.", he ordered, "And prepare to take a diplomat aboard." The communications officer went to work. "And tell the rest to slow down by five knots. After Tara has that diplomat, they should catch up and we will go back to full steam."
"Tara confirms.", the Communications officer said after a moment.

Southern Naval Command Headquarters
Williamsport, United States of Astoria

“Mister Secretary, welcome to Williamsport.” Admiral Xander Cochrane extended his hand to grasp Secretary of State Richard Arnold’s hand in a firm shake. “We just finished getting everything in order for the arrival of that foreign vessel.”

“Glad to hear it,” Arnold replied. “And what of the liaison to their fleet?”

“Two of Vice Admiral Claron’s officers off of the Washington will going to take a helicopter over to their fleet, once they get into contact,” the Admiral explained. “Lieutenant Commander Carson Rath and Major Katelyn Pike. They’ve got some experience in this sort of diplomatic situation. Major Pike is also fluent in several languages, which is likely to come in handy.”

“Seems like you have everything in hand,” Arnold said in congratulations. “I’ll be at the pier to greet the diplomats. I’ll leave it you and the vessel captain to work out details of shore leave and the rest.”

Onboard the U.S.S. Washington
Near the Morhaedine Group

Lieutenant Commander Carson Rath and Major Katelyn Pike walked across the deck of the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Washington, feeling the sea wind whip. All around them the carrier was bustling with activity. As the flagship of the Third Fleet, the Washington was the hub coordinating all the ships and aircraft filling the seas around them with purposeful movement. The exercises had been moved up to serve their dual purpose of keeping the Third Fleet combat-ready, and making sure any foreign powers thinking about intervening in Saint Sowena understood that they would not be free to act with total impunity. Two supercarriers and their escorting ships, including an amphibious assault ship loaded with Marines, would be running through all sorts of combat and reaction drills. Lieutenant Commander Rath and Major Pyke’s job was to make sure that the Kyrenian fleet and the Third Fleet didn’t butt heads.

“Hope their galley food is better than ours,” Pyke shouted to Rath as they walked towards the helicopter. The medium-lift bird was warming up, its rotors starting to throw a wash across the landing space it occupied.

“Don’t count on it,” Rath replied, smiling.

They boarded the helicopter, which sat on the deck until communication had been established with the Kyrenian fleet. Once they had been contacted and all the necessary preparations had been made to make sure the helicopter wouldn’t be shot down over the ocean, it’s rotors kicked into high gear and it lifted off the deck. Turning away from the Astorian fleet, it began its journey over the vast blue expanse towards the foreign flotilla.

[Baja Colorado]

August 12, Piran Island, St. Sowena and the Morhaedines.

A small boat bumped up against the pier several times as a man lifted himself out. He gave a low whistle, then started unloading plastic crates from the little fishing boat onto a well-worn truck. It was well past dark, and the boatsman was highly efficient, passing on crates handed to him by another person inside of the vessel. The crates looked ordinary at a distance, but upon further inspection, they were stuffed with pistols and submachine guns, stacked haphazardly atop each other. After around ten to fifteen of the smaller plastic crates had been loaded into the bed of the truck, the man onboard the little boat helped push two large plywood cases off the boat. The wooden crates, which were obviously very heavy were also brought to the truck, where a man lifted the lid, and finding the contents satisfactory, helped lift the box up onto the bed of the truck. The two boatsmen saluted the truck driver, and walked back to their small fishing vessel, pushing off, and sailing southwards towards Barranquilla, in Colombia.

[South Caleblan]

August, 1985
Today is Wednesday and today is the day where 2 thousand Caleblan soldiers will depart to Saint Sowena. Before leaving, the soldiers gathered at the War Memorial. King Janet then gave a speech; "My loyal forces! Today is where we will go to uncertainty. Even so, we should not be afraid! Stay strong in my youth! Don't be afraid of your enemies!"

The king got off the stage and walked away. Afterwards, 2,000 soldiers boarded a jeep to AFB Perol III. "It seems like this might be the last time I'm here," said one soldier. "Well ... maybe so, maybe one of us will die, but who knows, we might survive," said one soldier. The jeep they were riding in finally arrived at Perol III. "GOOD, ALL DOWN ... WE'RE UP!" the driver shouted. Two thousand soldiers then disembarked from their jeeps and began marching. "All please line up. All right, I'll start. Soldiers from the First Regiment, please board the plane at the left. Soldiers from the second and third Regiment, please board the middle. Soldiers from Regiment 4, 5 and 6 please board the one on the right. " explained the Sergeant. The aircraft used was a Hercules whose plan would take them to St. Piran Island

[Saint Sowena and the Morhaedines]

11 August 1985

---

Presidential Palace
Saint Sowena

The limousine rolled to a perfect stop, framing the passenger doorway in the middle of the two rows of National Guardsmen. First out of the door was a member of the Diplomatic Protection Service, wearing an immaculate suit with an earbud visible in one ear. He held the door open for Ambassador Rodelia Lernas, who stepped out of the limousine wearing a light colored pantsuit. She nodded once at the National Guardsmen as she walked between them to the waiting Sowenan leadership, acknowledging their presence and the precision of their movements.

“President Tressider,” she said in greeting as she shook the proffered hands. “Thank you for agreeing to this meeting on such short notice. I’m sure you have many pressing issues crossing your desk.”

Once in the Congregation Room and the various introductions and formalities had been said, Ambassador Lernas began to present her position.

“This recent outbreak of violence is troubling for the region as a whole,” Lernas said. “Beyond the capacity for a humanitarian crisis, my government is worried about the potential intrusion of outsider foreign nations.” Left unsaid was the worry that any state which helped Tressider put down the rebellion, or assisted the AFNL in overthrowing him, would remain in Saint Sowena, with a perfect natural base from which to threaten the Astorian homeland.

“On the humanitarian side, my government has instructed me to ask your permission to begin delivering humanitarian aid – food and medicine, especially – to those areas affected by the fighting. This would be done primarily by non-governmental organizations, coordinated by the Astorian Emergency Humanitarian Crisis Relief Organization. I give you my assurances that this aid will be entirely non-military in nature and will be intended solely for noncombatants caught in the crossfire.”

“Second, President Adams has expressed his desire to see this conflict ended peacefully.” This was the far more delicate proposal. If Tressider saw his chances of crushing the rebellion with force as good, he would be unlikely to sit down at the negotiating table. “If there is a chance that some sort of deal could be reached – of course one that would involve the rebels standing down and disarming – the United States would be happy to provide mediation for hammering out that deal.”

Presidential Office, Presidential Palace, 11:18 AM GSST

Tresidder, sitting down at his respective seat, listened and nodded with his hands folded together over his mouth. His stare at the young woman looked as if he were tired, but the facts and proposals she was enunciating with a smooth grace had kept his mind running. After she stopped talking, Tresidder clears his throat.

"Of course, there are other nations that will intervene for the AFNL's cause," he replied with his elderly voice, "but there are others that will give support to this government. I assure you, we will work together in dealing with them. As for your nation providing humanitarian support, you have my full permission to distribute them wherever you see please. The Lord after all has given us the task of being good custodians no matter what," he then smiled, "For this conflict, however, we will continue carrying out the force necessary to stifle this crisis. There is no way that they will reach a compromise, just as I have reached that decision in my own will. We will never, NEVER," he jabbed with his finger on the table, "reach an agreement with these communists."

Ninawan Governmental Complex, August 1985

Its a rainy, cloudy day in Teshkent, the countries capital city. The governmental part of the city looks empty, only a few cars can be spotted infront of the big, blocky looking concrete structures, in which the Ninawan Government resides.

Someone knocks on the door.

"Presidente, Sir.. an urgent message." A small figure blasts into the Presidents Chambers while chanting those words. "A Civil War has broken out in the Nation of S..Saint Soe-Sowenan, Sir."

A black figure spins around in a chair. The figure stops and looks at the small advisor.

"Saint Sowenan? How come?" the figure says while puffing on a cigar. The Advisor hands him a small folder. The President opens it and reads for a couple of minutes.

"Right, I understand.. uh, yeah. As far as I'm concerned.. the Saint Sowenan's need our help.. well Tresidder does.. not the rebels ofcourse.." the figure says. "Call the Chief of Staff and the Defence Minister, we'll have a meeting."

"Yes, Sir!" the small advisor shouts before moving out of the room.

About an hour later.

"Gentleman, this requires all of our thinking. President Tresidder needs assistance. Many Nations stand with him, but there are many nations who also stand infront of him, trying to knock him over if you know what I mean. If the so called 'Rebels' win, then we will loose valuable business and trading ties.. right?" The President looks over to the Advisor, who in question quickly nods. The President continues speaking. "Yeah, well.. I think we should do something. General's? Any uh.. Ideas?"

"Full Military Invasion." a big figure says while standing up. Its the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. "Attack the Rebel-strongholds and wipe them off the map with our newest military equipment."

"No.. no.." some Advisors can be heard yelling. "We can not openly fight the 'Rebels' and risk the other Nations turning against us! We should do it secretely." another Advisor says.

The President tries to calm down the room. "All right, all right. I have an Idea. Prepare a Telegram to President Tresidder. Encrypt it to the highest level." he says before nodding to his ontourage and leaving the room.

To: President Tresidder
From: President and Supreme Leader of the Republic of Ninawa
ENCRYPTION LEVEL: HIGHEST

Greetings, I am the President of the Republic of Ninawa. We know each other from doing business together in the past, though you might not remember.
We have found out, that you have some kind of struggle going on in your country and we would like to offer our help.
Ninawa will send a battalion of trained ex-soldiers and mercenaries to your Islands to defeat the 'Rebels' on the ground.
Officially, Ninawa will stay Neutral but behind the scenes we will fully support you and your regime.
All we need for that is:

-A safe airbase for the Cargoplanes to land
-A space where the Battalion can set up base and headquarters

After the battalion set itself up, you can tell us where you want the mercenaries to be stationed and what you would like them to do and we'll put them there.
You won't command the Battalion directly, but rather give us the message and we'll give the Orders to its Commander, Lt. Col Christopher Reimann, one of our best. He'll lead the troops.
You won't have to do anything at all. Logistics and supply will be handled by us exclusively.
If you have any more questions or conditions, please wire them to us immediatly.

Warm Greetings.

Communique from the Office of the President of St. Sowena and the Morhaedines

---

To: The President and Supreme Leader of the Republic of Ninawa
Encryption: High
Sent: 11 August 1985, 1:20 PM GSST

My cabinet has received your message of an appeal for two military installations. First off, I would like to express my token of appreciation that your nation is willing to assist us in containing the problem. Contact my Chief-of-Staff, General Cantgethen Pomeroy, on where you will be able to deploy your men. He will then provide you with assistance of other generals deployed in the field to help you get orientated. I thank you once again for considering to help us.

Sincerely,
Caradoc Tresidder
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of St. Sowena and the Morhaedines

TO: The Leadership of the Armed Front for National Liberation
FROM: The Government of Kuronami
Encryption Level: MEDIUM

To Whom it May Concern,

Thank you for your reply to us. We appreciate the cooperation of the AFNL in our efforts to help calm the situation and help those in need. We are still studying the conflict carefully before deciding if any full military invention is needed but for now we feel this is a good start. If you have further concerns, please contact our Government or for more direct communique with our troops on the ground, our Military Liaison, CPO Mirindia Abercrombie can also be of assistance for your immediate needs. We'll continue to be in touch

Until then,
Ignatius Ursul RAS

---

CAMP FOXTROT

Since landing and establishing the first thing was first was to stake a little claim of land, so to speak. It was makeshift, ideally able to be taken down if a bug out was needed. A runway, flight pad and of course quarters and facilities all set up. Right now The Colonel and his staff were looking over surveillance maps determining which areas were hot zones and ones to likely avoid unless needed, which areas would be in need of assistance. "Ariel chopper units can follow along this path for general patrol and supply runs. More risky missions into hot zones we can approach --"

"Sir!" A young Captain entered with message in hand. "At Ease, Captain, what is it?"

"Pardon the interruption but this just arrived for you, MLZ deemed it vital."

"Thank you, dismissed."

The young Captain promptly left as soon as ordered. Joslyn reading over the message grinned just a little. "Well, guess we have our first fan. The Kyrenian Government has pledged their support to us."

"The government clearly on one side why would they want to help us?"

"Easy does it, Frank, regardless of where anyone stands the point of being neutral is not taking sides one way or the other. If people want to support us from either side it just will make our job easier. So I'm willing to consider them our friends here."

"Well all right, Sir." next call to order let's make it clear our rules of engagement. Lieutenant Matsumoto has finished her outlines on that we'll be ready to brief what's needed. "

"Perfect. Now let's see if we can dispatch back to Caloris we're going to need an additional batch of maintenance personal."

Communique from the Office of the President of St. Sowena and the Morhaedines

---

To: The Government of Kuronami
Encryption: Medium
Sent: 11 August 1985, 1:23 PM GSST

We have received your communique detailing your intent on sending a peacekeeping force and humanitarian aid. I will be glad to accept their presence and the aid distribution to any frontline of this conflict. I advise you to be careful on these matters, as it can get pretty dangerous. Also, please notify me and my cabinet about where your force and aid is being stationed. This is in case you need any assistance from us, especially with the Kenedbodhog stationed wherever the fighting's far away.

Sincerely,
Caradoc Tresidder
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of St. Sowena and the Morhaedines

Official Communiqué of the Leadership of the Armed Front for National Liberation

---

To: The Government of the Empire of Kuronami
Encryption Level: Medium

Very well, then. We will be sure that we'll contact you when we have found such an opportunity.

Sincerely,
Guentanet Pendarvis

12 August 1985

---

Undisclosed location
St. Sowena and the Morhaedines
12 August 1985, 11:00am local time

---

The first Majapahiti soldiers landed on a major air base on the island of Jeffreni and Mabynia as they disembarked from the C-130J Super Hercules transporters. Besides armed personnel, there were also shipments of weaponry, light equipment, and several BTR-80 APCs unloaded from the aircraft. However, these were just the beginning; more troops and supplies were on their way from Majapahit, some were being flown in, while the rest were to be shipped through sea. These were all allocated to the defence of St. Sowena in its conflict against the rebellious AFNL forces.

(Image)

Imperial Guards Col. Janapada Poltangan, the commanding officer in charge of all current Majapahiti operations in St. Sowena, stood with his hands resting on his hips. Beside him stood a somewhat shorter man, a non-commissioned officer he'd assigned as his personal aide. He had a clip board on one hand and a pen on the other, every once in a while he'd jot down a few words on the slip of paper attached. The two men overlooked the disembarkation of Majapahiti troops and shipments of various supplies in the distance.

"So far, the Delta and Echo armoured platoons have arrived, Colonel," the aide informed Poltangan. "In total, 8 Leopards and 12 BTRs. As well as a bit over 400 men, sir. Lieutenant Colonel Suhadi reported that the 201st Battalion under his command will be moved to a forward operations base as soon as Foxtrot platoon lands... approximately in 20 minutes."

The colonel nodded slowly in acknowledgement. "Good. At this rate, Phase I will be finished in under 72 hours." Poltangan turned to face his subordinate. "Please do inform Command to speed things up a bit. The quicker our men get here, the better."

Goldsithney, 8 Miles from the Frontline, Jeffrenni Island, 11:02 PM GSST

General Costentyn Penhalligon sits comfortably on his desk, completing paperwork as if his pen took control of his soul. Then, thinking as if the ambience of the town would continue to fill both of his ears like water, an adjutant officer knocks the door, abruptly turning off this faucet of luxurious sound.

"Yes," Penhalligon asked.

"I have something to report," the adjutant responded, muffled by the door.

"Ah, Miss Hender. Come in."

The door then creaks quietly, with the beauty known as Josepa Hender emerging from the widening gap, making Penhalligon gaze with enthusiastic vibes.

"What do you have for me to hear?"

"Sir, the Majapahiti soldiers have arrived at the Ilcarthon Tamblyn Airbase."

"Ah, good. Tell Colonel Nancarrow to send a detachment to lead them here."

"Yes, sir," she nodded.

"Just call me Constentyn," he raised the palm of his right hand up, "So, Miss Hender, how was your leave?"

"It was good. Got to spend most of my days at my grandfather's bungalow."

"Oh, nice. Remind me to let you take me there. I wanting to see that again," he smiled.

"I will, Constentyn," she nodded, grinning.

"Good. Also, may I ask your assistance in handling the paperwork? It'll be better if I can get these done in a few minutes."

"I'll be happy to help you out."

With that, the general and the adjutant worked, exchanging a few chuckles on their way as they talked more about their daily lives.

August 12, Piran Island, St. Sowena and the Morhaedines.

A small boat bumped up against the pier several times as a man lifted himself out. He gave a low whistle, then started unloading plastic crates from the little fishing boat onto a well-worn truck. It was well past dark, and the boatsman was highly efficient, passing on crates handed to him by another person inside of the vessel. The crates looked ordinary at a distance, but upon further inspection, they were stuffed with pistols and submachine guns, stacked haphazardly atop each other. After around ten to fifteen of the smaller plastic crates had been loaded into the bed of the truck, the man onboard the little boat helped push two large plywood cases off the boat. The wooden crates, which were obviously very heavy were also brought to the truck, where a man lifted the lid, and finding the contents satisfactory, helped lift the box up onto the bed of the truck. The two boatsmen saluted the truck driver, and walked back to their small fishing vessel, pushing off, and sailing southwards towards Barranquilla, in Colombia.

23 Miles from the port city of Lesgertown, St. Piran Island

Tewdar Skewes, a captain in the Free Republic Army contingent, stands on a hill embedded within an AFNL camp located approximately two miles from the front lines. With a stern look on his face as he holds his binoculars, he poses as if he were a statue of a historical figure; as his men passed by, they gazes at him with much curiosity, if not also admiration, as if they were tourists themselves. Even then, the reflective, wet gems of sweat was neglected in their eyes. Tewdar then takes one more look at his binoculars to observe the columns of smoke rising from the nearby commune, before putting them down to look at the soldier who arrived with urgency.

"Sir," a soldier said in a St. Piranic dialect, "Truck approaching from Lesgertown. It's the arms from Baja Colorado."

"Good," Tewdar nodded, "Lead them up here on that path."

"Sir," the soldier saluted before leaving.

Later, the truck filled with crates of weapons on its bed arrived at the spot Skewes picked out. Soon after, Tewdar announced for everyone to come and grab anything that they could get their hands on. He then turns back, ignoring the commotion, and puts on his binoculars again towards the sound of gunfire and artillery explosions. Time passes by, and soon, he puts it down slowly.

"Men, get your weapons up. Fascists have broken through the line," he ordered.

[Astoria]

Presidential Office, Presidential Palace, 11:18 AM GSST

Tresidder, sitting down at his respective seat, listened and nodded with his hands folded together over his mouth. His stare at the young woman looked as if he were tired, but the facts and proposals she was enunciating with a smooth grace had kept his mind running. After she stopped talking, Tresidder clears his throat.

"Of course, there are other nations that will intervene for the AFNL's cause," he replied with his elderly voice, "but there are others that will give support to this government. I assure you, we will work together in dealing with them. As for your nation providing humanitarian support, you have my full permission to distribute them wherever you see please. The Lord after all has given us the task of being good custodians no matter what," he then smiled, "For this conflict, however, we will continue carrying out the force necessary to stifle this crisis. There is no way that they will reach a compromise, just as I have reached that decision in my own will. We will never, NEVER," he jabbed with his finger on the table, "reach an agreement with these communists."

Presidential Palace
Saint Sowena

Ambassador Rodelia Lernas was an experienced diplomat, and so she was able to hide her disappointment behind a pleasantly neutral expression. It had been expected that Tresidder would be unwilling to open negotiations so soon, with his forces still in control of the entire mainland and significant portions of the islands. But it had been necessary to broach the subject early, and hopefully get the message across to Tresidder that Astoria was watching, and closely.

The remainder of the meeting would be taken up by details and minutae - making sure that Tresidder and his government approved of the specifics of the humanitarian aid that would be brought into their country. Lernas had rough estimates of how much would be gathered and sent to Saint Sowena in the initial phase once things were up and running, and how many foreigners would enter the country to help organize the delivery and distribution of the supplies once they arrived.

William Lucius Building
Columbia, Astoria

Charles Walton set his fresh cup of coffee down on his desk and looked over the reports that had come in since he’d stepped out for his meeting with the Undersecretary responsible for managing relations with Astoria’s neighbors. They were mostly positive - the first round of outreach to various NGOs had returned dividends such as pledges of material goods or funding. A few non-profit organizations were willing to send staff to help the process. As Special Envoy, Walton’s job was to take all of these contributions and manage them effectively and efficiently. The aid had to be delivered as quickly as possible once he received the go-ahead from Ambassador Lernas, but not so fast that it overwhelmed the locals and whatever staff could get on-site quickly. Then it had to be inventoried and sent out to the places that needed it most, and determining where that was was another undertaking itself.

The phone rang. He picked it up and rattled off his introduction. “Ah, Mrs. Rockton! Thank you for calling me back. Yes, I wanted to talk about the new organizational chart you sent over. Now, Doctors Without Borders has said they might be able to send another specialist…”

[South Vangaurdia]

To: AFNL
Sender: South Vangaurdian Executive Office
Encryption: High

We will keep this brief. The government of South Vangaurdia supports democracy and democratic movements throughout the world, whether peaceful movements, or those of force, like this one. We admire you for your bravery in confronting the current autocrat. We are prepared to deliver military aid on several conditions:

- You vow to establish a fair political system.

- You will not disclose who sent this aid until the end of the war.

- And, at the end of the war, a trade deal, and liaison system will be established.

We look forward to aiding you in your noble fight.

William La Forge, Premier, South Vangaurdia

[Mersdon]

3:00 AM, 12 August 1985
Somewhere in Kingston, Jamaica (Saint Piran Island)
It was dark and peaceful, and in a Humvee, fifteen men were crammed to its gunwales, ready for action but still wary. One man worked a rosary, another stuck his head out of the vehicle's cupola for some fresh air, and yet another gulped down some definitely not army-issue rum.
As the Mersdonian Humvee maneuvered through the town, towards the commercial district of Kingston, the city's occupants slept soundly.
The sky was pitch-black, and the streets were empty, save for a few roving police or civilian cars going about their business.
It was time for their mission, the last one that they'd conduct before going home for some well-earned R & R. Nobody in the vehicle wanted to die now, when freedom was so close.

After some ten minutes of winding through a bunch of shantytowns, respectable neighborhoods, and warehouse back roads, the captain steered the nondescript Humvee right against the crumbling kerb while shifting the stick to third gear, then pulled the handbrake and slammed on the brake pedal as the armored vehicle careened to a screeching halt in the loading dock area of the office-cum-bookstore.

"BAG SOME INSURGENTS FOR ME! GO!" the captain shouted. His squad of five men stayed put, but were obviously pained at the prospect of missing out on the mission.

Following his cue, Staff Sergeant Willis Auburn, Second Lieutenant Charles Whitley, and about eight other Imperial Marines all climbed out of the Humvee, leaving a few men in the vehicle, and started running towards the store's back door. The hot-headed Staff Sergeant pulled up his custom-made M4 Colt carbine and dashed in like he owned the place and wanted to withdraw what was rightfully his, with the rest of his squad following in his footsteps.

There, behind a dingy coffee counter just to the right of the doorway, and next to the entrance, a tanned and lightly-armed teenager with an AK-47 waited, barely managing to get his weapon leveled at the incoming Marines five yards away before they were upon him.

... Jabbing his bayonet at the kid, Sergeant Auburn screamed "STEP AWAY FROM THE WEAPON, S**THEAD! DO YOU WANNA DIE TODAY?" in rough Cornish and then English.

Although the kid did not understand him, the Sergeant's actions seemed to be understood well enough. Confused and scared, the kid shuffled away from the counter and his assault rifle. His hands were raised at chest-height, and his eyes widened in surprise.

Two privates went behind him and zip-tied his arms behind his back. One of them patted him down and relieved him of his ammunition, pistol, and knife. The other spoke to him, flatly, in fluent Cornish. "Put your hands where I can see them, and stay calm."

Nodding, he slowly lowered his arms behind him, still confused and terrified. A corporal kept his submachine gun trained on the kid as the two privates behind him grabbed him and ran behind the Staff Sergeant towards the back door, the dark night, and the waiting Humvee.

Behind the counter, a thin white door with a few too many bullet holes in its surface shattered under another corporal's ministrations, his crowbar prying the wood open, and half of the squad rushed in.

After the Lieutenant and his men began searching the office, the Sergeant ran through the bookshelves and aisles shouting out of the enemy's view. From inside the back room he could hear Whitley roaring in Cornish, "GET DOWN! HANDS OFF THE PHONE, YOU DOG! WE KNOW YOU PIGS KEEP YOUR DIRTY MONEY HERE FOR LAUNDERING!"...

Chaos ensued as the occupants of the office scrambled to obey the Marines' commands, some given in English, others in broken Cornish.

... "OPEN THE CAGE!!!" Lieutenant Whitley screamed.

... "OPEN UP THE SAFES!!!" another soldier barked.

..."WHERE THE HELL IS THE KEY, PORKY?!" the crowbar-wielding corporal yelled at an unseen (presumably bulky) target.

After a while, Willis started to hear a circular saw buzzing and an acetylene torch working its magic as it cut through at least one of the cash-filled safes purported by Republican intelligence to be there.

Now it was just the Sergeant and a newly-captured insurgent boy, huddling behind a wall that separated the cafe from the entryway. With him tensing up upon hearing the eerie quiet in his part of the bookstore, Auburn began thinking, "Hey, where are the other staff?"
He crouched closer towards the freshly zip-tied and cross-legged captive and leaned forward with his bayonet pointing directly at his Adam's apple, asking in Cornish, then English, "where are the others?"

Just then, Second Lieutenant Whitley and his men came out of the back room, carbines, shotguns- and three burlap sacks of cash- slung over their shoulders. He walked over to the Sergeant, saying to him in English, "We busted open all of their safes. The captives we found are being driven back to a Republican jail by the captain and his men. Let's go." He then asked the captive, "Where are the others, boy? We can still leave you alive if you tell us where they are."

After receiving no response, he looked towards the cluster of enlisted men beside him, and then nodded towards the boy. In understanding, one of the privates jumped over the counter and jammed the barrel of his Mossberg 500 into the kid's neck and in a flat, cold tone, asked, "Where are the others?"

Just at the moment that the rebel started bawling, the squad heard a door opening from behind. Sergeant Auburn turned around and saw the last two armed insurgents in the building, standing in the hallway next to the bathrooms.

One of them was a woman in her early 20s, the other an old man, old enough to be some of the privates' fathers. They both had old, rusty bolt-action rifles in their hands.

Drawing a bead on the insurgents, fresh rounds in the chamber, and armed with an intent to kill, the Marines stayed where they were until the newcomers dropped their weapons.

The old man stepped in front of the woman valiantly, like a hero would, protecting his dame.

"What's going on here?" his gravelly voice intoned authoritatively in a thick Cornish accent. "You can drop the kid; he hasn't done anything wrong. Who are you?"

For a second after he spoke, the old man simply stood there, staring the Marines down with his aged and experienced eyes. The Lieutenant's eyes flicked across the two, deciding that they were not a credible threat. Not responding to the man's query, he said, "We're not trying to hurt anyone, unless we have to. Please, stay down on the ground until we leave."

"Mr. Matthews, please." said the young woman behind him, pleading for him to follow the soldiers' instructions.

Willis then felt the palm of a hand on his shoulder; he turned around and saw a corporal, gazing outside the window, looking out towards a series of flashing lights. "We got cops. Hostile cops."

... Crap. Okay, um, so, what could they do now?

The Staff Sergeant turned his body around, and leaned to the right of the shelves. Looking outside the window, they saw a battered Crown Victoria with a red star on the hood, just down the road.

From their vantage points around the room, the Marines could see the police officers with their dark green field uniforms. The three officers seemed to be having quite the conversation, as Auburn could see, from the small distance separating the two groups.

Almost instantaneously, the lieutenant heard a metal click from behind him, but now Sergeant Auburn had a bigger problem. What were they gonna do about the cops?!
As they both strolled closer and closer to the store, he thought of a plan, a good one. Alright, so there were 2 cops outside, and there were 3 rebels plus an insurgent lieutenant inside the store or in the van.

He had 2 options; he could either take care of the staff members first and then take care of the cops, or start preparing to attack the cops, thus assuming the the staff won't get in the squad's way.

The Staff Sergeant thought for awhile, weighing his options. The wrong choice could mean death for them all, or worse, failure and capture to be paraded in front of the world and then killed. However, his mind felt clear, and he was able to make his choice in the five seconds it took the two cops to run towards the door.

As the adrenaline flowed through Auburn's veins, it was as if time had slowed down. He thought faster, he could assess his choices faster, and he felt as if the world had slowed down just for that lonely squad of Imperial Marines in the backwater that was St. Piran/Jamaica Island.

Behind the doorway, the soldiers readied their shotguns and carbines, and some snuck around the cafe wall to the back of the store to stay out of view as the two cops took cover behind the set of potted bushes next to the entrance.

Staff Sergeant Willis Auburn turned around, weapon in hand, and saw the haggard old man with his arm swinging forward from his back. Swiftly, Sergeant Auburn yelled "HE'S GOT A GUN!" Utilizing his instincts, he pulled his rifle up to stop him. As its cold, bluish-grey barrel and the cold steel of the bayonet whipped through the air, the heroic old man tried to grab it, and missed, cutting his hand on the blade. With his squad mates about to open fire on the police, the sergeant decided to cut it short. He pushed the barrel of the M4 carbine to the man's chin and pulled the trigger, with a dozen rounds finding their way into his brain and out of his skull in a geyser of pink and grey matter. The gun's stock thudded against his shoulder as it spat out leaden death, leaving grandpa with barely enough time to register his own demise.

... He'd just killed a man.

The man fell away from him as he jerked back unconsciously. Mr. Matthews's limp body and half-gone head fell to the ground as blood pooled down from the two gaping holes in his skull, a rusty Tokarev pistol in hand.

He looked back at the woman that was behind him, and he could see her eyes widening, mouth wide open, body frozen at the gory sight of her dead comrade. She started to speak, but stopped, too shocked to do anything but stare at the man's corpse.

Oh, and he'd just realized that multiple armed cops were still outside, and they probably had heard the gunshots.

... The cop in the car ran out of the vehicle, kneeled behind a grove of palm trees across the road, leveled his AK-47 out of habit, and began firing at the store's unseen occupants. Thwack-thwack-thwack! Three tracer shells punched holes in the overturned cafe table next to the Sergeant's coal-scuttle helmet, snapping next to his head only inches away. More rounds followed, which went into a nearby mahogany table or wildly into the bookcases around him.

He fell to the ground, taking cover behind an upturned, coffee-stained sofa, the shattered remains of a coffee table, and a massive pile of old Cornish and English-language paperbacks. Turning slightly to his left, he saw three privates and the lieutenant following his lead as he dropped low, while the other squaddies ran out the back door to cover the Marines' escape route.

Swiftly looking back at the woman and the boy, one of the privates and the lieutenant saw her crawling away towards the emergency exit, trying to escape. The grizzled sergeant heard the crisp click of a well-oiled carbine slide being set to the "fire" position, and then a brisk voice in the Queen's English. "Try anything stupid, and you'll end up with an entire clip of rifle ammunition in your back. Understood?"

The lady turned and blanched, and nodded at the lieutenant, seemingly cowered and too shell-shocked to cry. She looked back at the Sergeant, and he could see Lieutenant Whitley leaning over to glance through one of the unbroken windows. The Sergeant held up three fingers and said "One cop's staying outside to support his comrades, the man behind the palms is roving over us with the muzzle of his weapon, and the last one's finally gotten the guts to come in. Let's get ready, we've got company."

The sergeant held his rifle close to his chest. He could feel the heat of the rifle's barrel through his padded gloves, still warm from the altercation with the old man. Mosquitoes buzzed around the men as he waited for Lieutenant Whitley to give him a cue, something, anything.

The five Marines in the coffeeshop then heard the front door opening with the jingling of a bell, a set of heavy footsteps, and then the officer himself, service rifle in a hip-fire position. "This is the People's Armed Police!" he shouted in Cornish. "Come out with your hands up!"

As soon as he'd stepped over the threshold into the building, gunshots erupted from the Marines' positions and then from the surprised policeman, many of which found their way into the unlucky officer. Then, there was silence punctuated with the harsh scent of spent cordite and a couple of guttural grunts from the downed cop.

The sergeant couldn't quite distinguish who'd fired first, but he could surely tell that one of the cops was dead; he looked past the shelf and could still see the female insurgent still on the ground. She cowered in the middle of the cafe floor between the book-laden shelves.

Lieutenant Whitley could see a man in a dark olive uniform slumped over the shrubbery out in front, his uniform a mess of blood and tattered cloth. "S**t!", he thought. Now that one of the rebels' men was dead, they'd be out for blood, and he could see the last unharmed officer crouching in his seat, no doubt calling for backup on his radio.

Taking the initiative, one of the privates jumped out into the open, aiming his M4 at the cop's head, and shot with cool precision, with the round finding purchase in the car's window- and then it's occupant's skull. A wave of gore covered the now-broken window, and his brain now lay strewn in sinewy pieces across the steering wheelof the vehicle.

The cop dropped dead to the floor of the car, radio still in hand, squawking out, having heard the demise of its user.

Auburn walked past the restrained female rebel and made sure that the cop was dead with his night-vision gun sight. Although over 15 years of service had grizzled the man, the sight of the inside of his skull made the Sergeant grateful that he had an iron stomach after his years in the service. One of the privates spoke in a whisper. "He's not waking up from that. Let's get out before their reinforcements arrive." Sergeant Auburn looked to the right and saw blood on the floor from the cop who stepped foot in the store; not enough to kill a man, but enough to make sure that he'd stay out of commission for a while. The private leaned over, and sure enough, the policeman was still alive. The private sighed in relief, then saw the cop holding his own neck with the Sergeant's help.

Another private looked at them and said, "He needs a medic. Let's hope the ambulance gets here before he dies." as he also held the policeman's hand, pressing a gauze bandage on his neck as blood flowed down his wounds and into the receptive-enough cloth. The third private got up, checked that the coast was clear, and dialed the emergency number on the landline in the ransacked office. Moments later, the dispatcher agreed to get an ambulance there, and fast. The private walked back, ready to leave.

Seeing that help was on the way for the two survivors and the downed cop, the squad began to withdraw through the back door, and into the night. Vaulting over the counter, the Staff Sergeant made sure that no one was approaching them or coming out to investigate, and closed the door with a dreadfully final clang. The Humvee was gone, so they'd have to walk back.

As the Sergeant's squad pounded their way towards the safehouse, carbines and shotguns slung over their shoulders, he got this eerie feeling that he couldn't seem to shake. He glanced down at the now-familiar street and had their hideout flat in his sights.

His safehouse. He let out a sigh as the squad arrived at the apartment building's front door, quickly visually confirming that the area was clear. Sergeant Willis looked to the right of the door, and ran down the lists of names and numbers with his index finger. After a few seconds of standing in the dimly-lit hallway, he settled on the number "205".

This wasn't an unusual mission, but he felt glad to be back "home" in his wonderfully messy and cluttered safehouse. Unusually, the Sergeant felt a sudden rush of relief, taking the opportunity to relax his rigid shoulders. Knowing that all of his men had made it home safe with no injuries, and with the target taken out and his office ransacked made him feel as though the heat and the mosquitoes and the constant gun battles and third-world conditions in their hideout area were almost worth it.

*BUZZ!* The bell buzzed, a bit too loudly for the early morning. The sound of chopper rotors cut through the tranquility of the early morning, causing some of the men to scan the sky nervously. With no response from the block or the apartment after five minutes, he tried again, *BUZZ!* The bell buzzed again, and the noise of the helicopters grew louder. Another five minutes elapsed. Beginning to feel apprehensive, Auburn wondered whether or not the intelligence officer assigned to them had been captured by the insurgents. Was it alright to cut and run? How would his trust in her abilities hold up, and for how long?

The intelligence officer was supposed to be meeting the men back at the safehouse, as was the norm after any mission. *BUZZ!* The helicopters were practically on top of them, their insignia not discernible in the slight early morning light.
He rang a third time. He wondered where could "she" could be this late at night, if not h-"
The elevator door opened.
..."Who's there?"

Oh never mind, there she was...
with the Captain and his men...
and she had a Colt .45 and a black attache case in hand, as three Imperial Huey helicopters hovered overhead, with ropes dropping invitingly down from their landing skids.
Struggling to speak through the helicopters' engines' droning and their rotor wash, she yelled, "Come on boys. We're going home."
They needed no more encouragement, and as they flew away to the northeast, everybody accounted for, they felt glad to have survived their mission in the insurgents' territory. They were headed for a friendly airbase, and from there, civilization.