Geonal-Grudaidhian War [IC, CLOSED, MT/EARLY PMT]

[Iarann Grudaidh]

Link to the OOC


DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Home

The Supreme Leader, Georgia, was a fine woman. One of class and excellency. Raised by her mother, she took on many traits, keeping an upper class stance on life but continuing to learn hobbies acknowledged from numerous walks of life. She is trained in hand to hand combat as well as combat with both melee and small arms weapons, messing with her is never recommended, though, people don't seem to learn. The Supreme Leader would be working at her marble desk, drowning in paperwork, all with a common theme, the nation of Geonal and a newly rising rebel group known as the Masked Resistance. A soft sigh would escape her lips as she logged off from her computer and put the documents away. She'd check her watch and see that it's 5 minutes until her next speech, grabbing her suit jacket and quickly putting it on, she'd grab the notes for her speech and make her way down to the podium located at the press room of her house, her security detail close behind. During the walk she'd make a bit of small talk, "lovely day for an international speech, wouldn't you say David?" she'd ask.
"Yes ma'am" David, one of her bodyguards and a close friend, concurred, his face remaining stone cold as they made their way through the marble halls. Georgia liked David, he was a good friend of her's since she was a teenager, she has no romantic feelings for him but knows that he, truly, was one of her closest friends.

They'd reach the podium as the guards spread out, doing their usual routine of checking the doors and windows, standing guard at various points around the room as the cameras came to life. "Madainn mhath" she'd begin, in Iarann Grudaidh's second language. "Our government, along with our counterparts within the governments of Port Ember and Astares Americanum are working to see a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict with the Empire of Geonal. Personally I have been speaking with Red Command, who oversee both the Vortex and SAU regarding our nation's best approach to the current threat. As a warning to the international community, testing myself or my friends in both Port Ember and Astares Americanum is not advised. Using this disgraceful situation as a bargaining chip or fuel to your agenda, is not advised. Our nation will stand tall against any opposition thrown our way." She'd paused, noticing the tension in the room rise as bodyguards swarmed her position. "What's going on?" she'd appeal. An overhead alarm could be heard throughout the house as the Supreme Leader was quickly hurried out of the press room in an attempt to get her to a safe location. "What's going on?" She'd appeal again, this time raising her tone more firmly.
One of her guards would reply "We're under attack, ma'am."

Suddenly, a large explosion could be heard from a large distance away, seemingly the other side of the house. "Get the Supreme Leader to the fucking saferoom!!!" a soldier would cry. The gunfire would get louder, signalling that the enemy was getting closer. "Green combat gear, black masks. They're Masked Resistance. Eliminate with extreme prejudice." She'd reach the saferoom and quickly enter it, protected by a large quantity of guards.

And so, the rebellion was literally, right at her doorstep.

[Astares Amauricanum]

Columbia District, Silver Palace
5th October 2020


For the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum, the year 2020 would stay in the books as a hectic year.
First paralysed at the start of the year due to the COVID-19 outbreak sweeping across the world, the virus had caused some deaths in the population, but fortunately fewer than expected, thanks to the respect of sanitary precautions and confinement.
Then, the summer had seen a state visit from the UIS of AHSCA, but also a rise in tensions again in the ally country of Iarann Grudaidh, who after having faced a set of terrorist attacks on its soil at the end of 2019, was now again under the threat of another nation, the Empire of Geonal, who was confirmed to fund a terrorist group tasked with overthrowing the Grudaidh government, and maybe the Port Emberian and Astarian as well.
This had led, for the past three months, in an increased preparation of the Empire to be ready to intervene at a moment's notice, with the Keiserlig Custos (or Imperial Guard) mobilizing two of its Divisions, and the Imperial Navy readying three aircraft carriers and their battlegroups.
Also, three Special Operation Forces, all belonging to the Imperial Guard too, would participate in the fight as well. And among those SFs operators, the Emperor, Empress, and their Personal Guards.
And now, it would seem that the time had come for the Astarians to step in the fight...

As they are all watching Georgia's speech on their laptops, Adrean, Anna and their friendsjolt in their seats when they witness on screen what is happening in Duff Gardens.
"Well shit, exclaims Patrick Leonhart, the leader of Stalker Squad, seems the Masked Resistance has finally come out of the woods.
-And they're striking big for their first move, attacking the SL's home no less! adds his wife Alexandra, nicknamed "Sasha" by her friends, leader of Witch Squad
-Guys, we'll discuss that later! interrupts Adrean with a loud voice. For now we have to move! Anna, tell William we're going abroad. Pavel, Alicia, contact the Adrean, Nimitz and Astra Oppdack and tell them to start sailing towards IG now!"
(William Raven, the First Secretary, is the head of the Imperial Cabinet, and the Adrean and others are the three carriers mentioned before.)
"RAH!" reply the Empress and her two friends before the Phantoms all spring into actio, gathering their gear and weapons, before going to the Adams Guard Air Base, where they will board planes to go to Iarann ASAP.
In the meantime, the First and Third Divisions of the Keiserlig Custos would also be moved by plane, with help from the Imperial Astarian Air Force.

From:

Emperor Adrean Blachkor,
Empress Anna Blachkor

To:

Supreme Leader Georgia Grudaidh
Red Command

Encryption:

Maximum

Supreme Leader, Red Command Leaders,
we have witnessed the atack on Duff Gardens, and are en route to Iarann Grudaidh with our Personal Guards, additional SF groups and some vehicles aboard some C18 Albatros cargo planes.
In the meantime, we also have the First and Third Divisions of our Imperial Guard that are ready be boarded and transported to your country as soon as posible. Additionally, we have the Adrean, Nimitz and Astra Oppdack aircraft carriers and their battlegroups, who have just departed and are also sailing your way.

We shall arrive in about 7 hours. Please send us some coordinates where we can land and safely unload our gear.

Signed,
Adrean
Anna.

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Outside the Supreme Leader's Home

The scene quickly became hectic outside the Supreme Leader's Home. The response was instant. Once the alert came through that the heavily secured house was somehow captured, police and military swarmed the surrounding streets as citizens watched on, a look of fear plastered onto their faces. Vortex Commander Downing was the highest ranking on scene at the time, sorting her Red beret and getting out of the military SUV she'd quickly walk up to the command desk filled with other police, military and vortex agents, all discussing a plan of action. "Where's her family?" The Commander would immediately ask, leaving an eerie silence throughout the Command Vehicle.
"We have reason to believe they've been captured, the Supreme Leader is safe, her family's status is what we don't know." one of the other agents would reply

A frustrated sigh would quickly escape the Commander's mouth. "We need to get them out of there and eliminate the enemy. Quick and ruthless. They will not hesistate, we can't either." she'd state. "I'm going to have to speak to the press, the international community is waiting... not so patiently."
"of course ma'am, follow me. Don't forget the mask, they can't know who you are." another vortex agent would nod, handing her a balaclava, which the Commander quickly put on.

Hurrying out of the command vehicle, they'd walk up to the designated press area, in which the commander would begin speaking. "I am speaking on behalf of Vortex and Red Command, this message is to the national and international community as a whole. We can confirm that the Supreme Leader has been attacked, we currently have reason to believe that she is located in her house's safe room. Her family are believed to be captured by the terrorist insurgents." She'd stop as her tone quickly shifted to one of a darker nature. "If any nation dares to attempt to harm us in any way, shape or form during these times, they will be met with the full wrath of Iarann Grudaidh, I assure you all that my agents will not back down until we have the entire Supreme Family back safely, thank you." she'd conclude. Walking off and refusing to answer questions as they're yelled from behind her.

Going back into the Command Vehicle she'd begin to scratch up plans to rescue the Supreme Family as soon as possible. "A letter from Astares Americanum, ma'am." one of her agents would speak, handing it to her. Reading it over she'd draft one to be written back to them.

URGENT MESSAGE

---

From:
Rebecca Downing

Red Command; Vortex; Iarann Grudaidh

To:

Emperor Adrean Blachkor,
Empress Anna Blachkor

Subject: RE: DUFF GARDENS ATTACK

Encryption Level: Maximum

---

Dear Emperor and Empress,

We have recieved your message regarding your mobilization and thank you for assisting us in this terror event. Vortex has scrambled a large chunk of our Tactical Retrieval Unit and are working to quickly and cleanly resolve this issue, regarding your arrival, I have granted you permission to land at the Military Airstrip located in northern Duff Gardens, where you will be escorted over to the Command Vehicle in which we can meet in person.

Best Regards,

Commander Rebecca Downing
Red Command (Vortex)

[Astares Amauricanum]

Flight of Astarian C18 Albatros en route to Iarann Grudaidh.

After a few hours of flight, the first group of planes carrying the 36th Special Training Squadron (aka the Emperor and Empress's Personal Guard), the 1st Bodark Squadron (60 men) and the 15th Idolon Company (100 men, whose goal would be to asct as a QRF), and their ground vehicles and helicopters are now approaching the Military Air strip located north of Duff Gardens.

Immediatly after having touched ground, the pilots and air crews immediatly start to unload the planes of their L-ATVs, MRAPS and MH 20 choppers, and reving them back to life.
Meanwhile, Adrean and Anna have a quick meet up with the other two SF squadron and company leaders, telling them to stay put at the airstrip and await further instructions.
"RAH!" simply answer the two men before going back to lead their formations.

And so, after having checked for the last time their weapons, CrossCom systems and gear, the Phantoms board their L-ATVs and MRAPs and start driving towards the Supreme's Leader mansion.

A few minutes later, they arrive there.
I'm Phantom 1, yells the Emperor behind his black balaclava with a white skull design as he gets out of his vehicle to the local Grudaidhian soldiers. Me and Phantom 2 need to speak with your chief now!"

[Port Ember]

Undisclosed Location; Republic of Port Ember - Gerald Gallows

Gerald Gallows considered himself a master in an art long forgotten and shunned. Even his own Government would have his head hanging from the nearest make-shift gallow if they discovered his daily activities. The ancient looking wrinkled, leathery face with graying hair and a neatly trimmed beard hiden in the dark ambience and shadow infested basement room, accentuated with the new fedora donned, chuckled at the irony. Gallows hung on the the gallow had a hilarious ring to it. The old man's fleeting thoughts were interrupted by muffled sounds coming from deep within the dark room. Gerald sighed heavily as he slowly and achily rose from his seat. Clutching his lit fat cigar he walked towards the origin of the muffled sound, commenting out loud to no one in particular "To work I go then". He came to a stop in front of three large metal chests painted in a dark brown colour - barely visible in the dark dimly lit basement. He stared down upon these chests for quite a number of moments, mumbles audible sporadically. Finally he reached into his inner jacket pocket and produced a set of keys - a set of three keys to be exact. Gerald fiddled with the keys into the lock of the first chest, finally managing to open it - his back crackling and popping softly as he rose frol bended position back to upright - testament to his advanced age. Once the lock was undone, the chest was opened - revealing a stark naked man with hands and feed tied and gagged within - his body folded into a strange and clearly uncomfortable position to be able to fit inside. Over the next few minutes Gerald assisted the naked man to exit the trunk, shifted him to a prepared area within the basement, placed a few meters away from the trunks. At this area the naked man was cuffed to iron rings mounted on the floor and the roof - the end result was a naked man cuffed completely immobile in the form of a splayed 'X'. Twenty minutes later of repeated actions saw all three trunks emptied - with three naked splayed X figure humans cuffed and gagged in place. The three sets of eyes spoke louder than any words possibly could - they spoke of utter anger, terror and uncertainty. Gerald slowly took in the sight on display and smiled softly. A master of in an art long forgotten...

When Gerald finally broke the silence with speech, he did so in his normal time weathered and coarse, husky like tone - no emotion audible. "Gentleman! Firstly I would like to apologise for the poor quality of your accommodation, but I am sure you will forgive me in time, as the state of our surroundings will soon be the last item which you will find to hold content against me.

Before you consider me rude, please allow me to introduce myself. I am one Mister Gerald Gallows, and am in the employ of the Port Emberian Secret Service - employed as a sort of 'Problem Preventor'

So lads, let me tell you what I do know. I know that the lads forming part of my art exhibit today is named Misters Joshua Jenkins, Adam Green and Howard Gardner. I know said exhibits is within the employ of the Geonal Intelligence Unit, send to my beloved Republic of Port Ember to execute the dual functions of gathering any and all possible intelligence relating to my great nation, and secondly to set in motion events which is to cause havoc and terror upon my people. Now as I have revealed, it is precisely my job to prevent the occurrence of such events. Now, I have been courteous enough to reveal my secrets with you - and I now offer you the same courtesy, to inform me about what I do not know. In the spirit of remaining civil offcourse."

Gerald continued to remove the gags of the three captives, and a flurry of curses, cussss, insults and threats of death followed. A soft and mannered chuckle escaped the throat of Gerald before speaking again. "Ah yes, this much was expected. Your reaction is the same as all my other guests of before. It seems that the youth of today have lost all knowledge of civility and gentlemanly behaviour. Now, I'll be honest, the weight of your mistake is not entirely yours. I blame my own culture and government. You see, the Republic has build a reputation of being civil, diplomatic and civil. Now in the manure filled corners of the world which comprises the savage and uncultured civilizations such where you are from - you are mentally involved, and thus as the cavemen you are, only respond to the universal language of violence and threats. Your undeveloped minds may easily mistake our civility and kindness for weakness - not understanding that we have the capacity to switch between the languages of boardrooms to warrior at will. We just happen to be more adept in both languages when compared to savages as yourself. Now as you have chosen the path of brutality, I am forced to comply offcourse and unfortunately."

Gerald walked over to the lone desk within the basement, upon which his black leather briefcase was resting. Once opened he chose one item of many for the task ahead. The chemical bottle which contained industrial purposed drain cleaner was chosen and opened, quickly filling a small porcelain bowl awaiting its use next to the briefcase in question.

After the next hour or so, human flesh were submerged within the bowl containing the said chemical liquid, resulting in murderous screams of agony and pure hate. As the basement was soundproofed none of these pleas reached the outside world. After an hour had passed the room was quickly filling with the smell of charred flesh and spilled secrets.

Over the next hour the rate of spilled secrets slowed - to the frustration of Gerald, and thus the same chemical liquid found itself slipping down the throat and into the internal organs of one of the exhibits. This trend continued until no secrets were left uncovered - and no internal organ (except for those of Gerald offcourse) was left unmangled and uncharred.

Three hours had passed after the first chest was opened Gerald was standing in a deserted alleyway off a sparsely traveled street located within an old, nearly abandoned industrial area. The daily late afternoon rainstorm was busy hitting the tropical island in all its glory whilst Gerald was standing under a small sink roof, lighting his fat cigar once more and continued to remove his cellphone from his inner suit pocket. "Cleanup crew needed in aisle 9." was the entirety of the first call. The second call was not much less cryptic, "Prepare the report files - HQ and those PEFIA lads will need to hear this."".

---

Port Ember Foreign Intelligence Agency Headquarters; Republic of Port Ember - Director Jason Downing; Geographic Director Salford Peters

The Port Ember Foreign Intelligence Agency (PEFIA) was a large, professional, well funded and successful organization, nicknamed the "Shadow Fist of Port Ember". The organization in question was responsible to collect, analyze and disseminate information from all across the globe. This organization was very much shrouded in secrets and mystery, with no person being quite sure exactly how many people were in its employ. What was known however is the structure it followed, being divided into three separate divisions- Covert Intelligence, Overt Intelligence and Electronic Intelligence. PEFIA had assets of all three departments lodged within almost every nation in existence (not officially offcourse!), and all three departments was under the command of a regional director, known simply as a Geographical Director. All of these many Geographical Directors were in turn accountable to the Port Ember Foreign Intelligence Director, in turn accountable to the Minister of Defense. Being within the employ of PEFIA was certainly a financially lucrative situation, and provided opportunities to do some good in the world - although the definition of 'good' can easily become a hotly debated topic. What the job was not however- was glorious. It was the job of the shadowy lads to identify and solve problems before it escalated to the point where it became part of the breaking evening news. Have you heard of the nuclear terror attack in Braziliztan? The assasination of the Ashmore Islands princess? The genocide of the Bergian peoples? The biological weapon in Kyavan? The anthrax bus bombings in Kryastan? No? You can thank PEFIA for that. Now when events does manage to actually occur and make it to be included as breaking evening news - you can be certain that someone within the PEFIA headquarters are in trouble. Deep trouble. Salford Peters knew this all to well as he - the The Northern Ocean Geographics Director - was pacing down the corridor at great pace. He finally made it to the ornated heavy blackwood door which was his destination, sighing deeply as he was attempting to find courage. Failing to find the desired courage, he pressed on one the less, knocking softly on the door in question. He immediately followed the barely audible instructions originating from inside and entered the large and luxurious office - one which closely resembled the President's office in both style and financial worth. Seated within the plush leather chair behind the large mahogany desk sat a very neatly dressed - and very pissed looking old man. Director Port Ember Foreign Intelligence Agency - Jason Downing - was a bitter and angry old man on a good day - but today in particular his anger seemed unmatched.

Salford took a seat at the table opposite Jason, remaining tense. Jason lifted his old graying head from a thick leather bonded folder and started into the very soul of Salford before speaking in his signature crassly thick tone. "Sal.. What the fuck!?"

Salford gulped softly before responding, Director, this was unavoidable.. We have ears and eyes everywhere in Iarann Grudaidh.. This was planned and executed without setting of even the slightest of tingles. The insurgents obviously took immense care in OpSec."

Director Downing slammed his fist down hard upon the picturesque desk, sending his carefully arranged pen set scattering into every compass direction. "Dont you fucking dare handle me you little shit. I wrote the goddamm handbook on handling. You know very well I am grooming you to take my seat once I step down - don't you jeopardize it with your bullshit."

Salford lowered his head, avoiding the angry mentor seated in front of him. He replied, with a soft defeated tone, "I'm not attempting to handle you Director. I'm honest here, we have had eyes and ears on the perpetrators since they became a player. We knew about their brand new Geonal links and increased funding before the Intel were shared with our Principal. Still, this ops was planned in such darkness that it simply did not rustle any feathers in country."

Director Downing did not flinch or blink before responding, "You are telling me shit which is obvious Sal. I don't need to know how you fucked up - I know! I have been in this game for over 37 years, so spare me the manual wisdom - which he wrote by the way. I want to know how you are planning on fixing this mess."

Salford lifted his head and replied once more, "Well my Head of Covert in country is being recalled as we speak. We obviously cannot accept such failure. I'm also inserting a few recalled assets. The details are in the file I sent ahead of me."

Director Downing nodded, "Aye, I perused. I approve of this measures... For now. I need you to put your finger on this Sal. There is a war brewing. A war of shadow to the extent in which we have never been involved in. This coming war will not be waged by our brave navy lads. It will be waged by the faceless men such as you and me. And if we are caught sleeping for more than a second - we will wake with a log lodged in our arses."

Salford nodded in response, knowing it as fact. "Any news on Blue plans to assist with the current crises?"

Director Downing sighed, "Aye, Blue Ops are a no go. There is some hurdles with the parliament and red tape has twisted within the NOSA Headquarters. They cant send Ops in under the radar due to the publicity this problem has garnered. It seems the Supreme Leader needs to shoot her way out without Port Emberian guns."

[Geonal]

Geonal Intelligence Headquarters
Somewhere in Geonal...

The Commander would step foot into the headquarters, quickly making his way towards the Search and Extract Centre located at the south of the base. His marroon eyes scanning every passing soldier who saluted at him. His stone-cold expression was one he wore often and was used to wearing. As he made his way through the military bases cold halls he landed at the door, opening it and walking up to the Commanding Officer. "Status Report." He'd command without blinking an eye, every soldier turning at attention upon his entry.

The Commanding Officer would salute and reply "the 3 are still MIA, evidence suggests they were captured, sir." awaiting his mark to rest his still saluting arm back into position. Instead he was struck across the face. "You do understand the extreme consiquences in this battle for every single one of us if but one of those secret escape their fucking lips, Lieutenant?" The Lieutenant would stand there, silent, knowing not to interupt his superior officer. No excuses, his failure. "Do you even know who captured them?!"

The Lieutenant would look up to the man towering above him. "Sir, we have reason to believe it's the Port Emberians." a wave of silence fell over the room as the Captain pondered on the information laid upon him. "They're dead. Try your best to tie up loose ends, Captain, or else." He'd say, quickly and efficiently moving out.

The Masked Resistance
Iarann Grudaidhian Supreme Leader's house

The Resistance troops made short work of the Iarann Grudaidhian Security Forces, they weren't expecting such a large flurry of combatants. They had successfully captured the majority of the Supreme Family, everyone except for the Supreme Leader, who was being hunted for, and, at least to the knowledge of the rebels, her being found was itching closer with every passing second. "Engage comms with the Iarann Grudaidhian authorities. Tell them we want their little red beret bitch down there, the one who's commanding this op, in trade for 3 of the Family Members. Now."

[Astares Amauricanum]

Geonal Intelligence Headquarters
Somewhere in Geonal...

The Commander would step foot into the headquarters, quickly making his way towards the Search and Extract Centre located at the south of the base. His marroon eyes scanning every passing soldier who saluted at him. His stone-cold expression was one he wore often and was used to wearing. As he made his way through the military bases cold halls he landed at the door, opening it and walking up to the Commanding Officer. "Status Report." He'd command without blinking an eye, every soldier turning at attention upon his entry.

The Commanding Officer would salute and reply "the 3 are still MIA, evidence suggests they were captured, sir." awaiting his mark to rest his still saluting arm back into position. Instead he was struck across the face. "You do understand the extreme consiquences in this battle for every single one of us if but one of those secret escape their fucking lips, Lieutenant?" The Lieutenant would stand there, silent, knowing not to interupt his superior officer. No excuses, his failure. "Do you even know who captured them?!"

The Lieutenant would look up to the man towering above him. "Sir, we have reason to believe it's the Port Emberians." a wave of silence fell over the room as the Captain pondered on the information laid upon him. "They're dead. Try your best to tie up loose ends, Captain, or else." He'd say, quickly and efficiently moving out.

The Masked Resistance
Iarann Grudaidhian Supreme Leader's house

The Resistance troops made short work of the Iarann Grudaidhian Security Forces, they weren't expecting such a large flurry of combatants. They had successfully captured the majority of the Supreme Family, everyone except for the Supreme Leader, who was being hunted for, and, at least to the knowledge of the rebels, her being found was itching closer with every passing second. "Engage comms with the Iarann Grudaidhian authorities. Tell them we want their little red beret bitch down there, the one who's commanding this op, in trade for 3 of the Family Members. Now."

As they stand with Commander Downing, Adrean and Anna, their faces still hidden by balaclavas, receive the message from the Masked Resistance asking for the trade of the Commander for three hostages.
"To hell with that!" shouts the Emperor as he slams his right fist on one of the Command vehicle's walls. "Ma'am, I don't mean to give you any order, this is your jurisdiction after all, and we only operate here as supporting allies, but for that, I would advise that you try to gain us some time by speaking with them. In the meantime, can you please get us a general plan of the SL's residence, especially technical conducts and all? I may have an idea to use them to infiltrate the house." says Adrean while Anna nods in approval.
"Also," adds the Empress, "do you know if Georgia has a beacon of any kind on her, which may help us track her while we're inside?"

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Outside the Supreme Leader's Home

The Commander, as the few arrived was at the main desk inside the command room. Glancing behind her back she'd notice the Phantoms standing at the doorway, one of the guards would speak "ma'am, the Astares Americanum troops are here."

She'd smile and open her mouth to speak until she was interrupted by a phonecall "sorry, one second." she spoke with her strong Grudaidhian accent as she quickly made her way towards the phone. picking it up and answering, fixing her hair behind her ear and answering with "Yes?"

She was met with a digitized voice which would play throughout the command room, untracable and bonechilling. "Commander. You're here to rescue your precious Supreme Family, well, we'll give you a little ultimatum. Three of the family members for you to surrender and become our prisoner. A more than fair trade in my opinion." they'd pause, before continuing again with a stronger tone. "You have 10 minutes, don't be selfish." The connection would cease as the Americanum people would pipe up. Listening to both the emporor and empress' words she'd state "we know they're in saferoom Delta, the saferoom is more classified and barely anyone knows where it is. I highly doubt they'd know themselves, which buys us some time." she'd pause, her eyes seemingly darkening. "My troops have trained for these situations, however, the plan of action is to ensure the safety of the supreme leader, the supreme family is... less valuable. They hold no information until they are made Supreme Leader themself, and so, with the Supreme Leader safe and under the watch of elite guards, we can make our way into securing the Supreme Family." She'd quickly check a monitor, showing the layout of the inside of the building. "Note that we have no idea where the supreme family even is, most security cameras are disabled and the ones that aren't are one's that have provided no use thusfar. We don't even know if they're in a group or not." She'd think for a moment, before seemingly coming to the realization of something. "If I quote on quote surrender to them, maybe, just maybe we could sneak troops in through the back entrance, take out guards as they go along as they'll all be focused on ensuring they're not screwed over by us at the front."

"We could potentially throw them off, by the time they realize troops have entered through the back, we send in troops through the front. Hell, might even get away with sending in troops from the roof if need be."

[Astares Amauricanum]

Adrean and Anna, once the communication with the rebels have ceased, listen to the Commander's words and suggestion.
"That seems like a good idea, replies Anna once Downing has finished exposing the situation. Although with all due respect, even though you may consider the SL's family expendable to some extent, we don't. Sure, they may not escape unscathed, but we have not come all the way here from the Imperium to leave with hostage corpses on our curriculum.
-Indeed, adds the Emperor with a nod. We're in here to save them, not sacrify them.
Anyway, here's what I suggest. While you surrender to the front, the Phantoms and I will go in sneakily through the back. Anna and Plague 1, Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Petrenko, our other top sniper, will also sneak with us, establish overwatch in the gardens to help us progressing through the buildings and try to draw attention on them if need be.
In the meantime, we can call for the remaining of our forces back at base, the 1st Special Training Squadron, to be ready for a roof insertion by helicopter at the same time you and your troops would launch an offensive through the front. With three ways of attack, we have greater chances to disrupt them and make them do mistakes.
So, Commander, what do you think? Remember, we only have ten minutes left." finishes Adrean.

[Iarann Grudaidh]

Adrean and Anna, once the communication with the rebels have ceased, listen to the Commander's words and suggestion.
"That seems like a good idea, replies Anna once Downing has finished exposing the situation. Although with all due respect, even though you may consider the SL's family expendable to some extent, we don't. Sure, they may not escape unscathed, but we have not come all the way here from the Imperium to leave with hostage corpses on our curriculum.
-Indeed, adds the Emperor with a nod. We're in here to save them, not sacrify them.
Anyway, here's what I suggest. While you surrender to the front, the Phantoms and I will go in sneakily through the back. Anna and Plague 1, Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Petrenko, our other top sniper, will also sneak with us, establish overwatch in the gardens to help us progressing through the buildings and try to draw attention on them if need be.
In the meantime, we can call for the remaining of our forces back at base, the 1st Special Training Squadron, to be ready for a roof insertion by helicopter at the same time you and your troops would launch an offensive through the front. With three ways of attack, we have greater chances to disrupt them and make them do mistakes.
So, Commander, what do you think? Remember, we only have ten minutes left." finishes Adrean.

The commander would ponder on their words for a moment, before she grabbed her radio and put it up to her face. "Red Lead to Squads Alpha Foxtrot and Delta" before awaiting a reply from both squadron leads.

"go ahead" Foxtrot and Delta Actual would respond

"be advised, you will be entering the main building through the west wing and skylight. Astares Americanum Squadrons are to make entry through the back. I will be acting as a distraction as per their request for me to surrender. Go silenced weaponry. Alpha Foxtrot Actual you are to make entry through the westwing as Alpha Delta makes entry through skylight." Explaining the operation, she'd look in the eyes of the Emperor and Empress for a sign of approval or disapproval. "Suit up, we only have 9 minutes." She'd speak again before putting the radio down. "Right" she'd look back at the Emperor and Empress. "Those are the two best trained squadrons-"

A soldier would walk up to the commander and salute "Commander, we have confirmation of 43 OPFOR inside the main building with at least 3 ammo staches, hostages have been located on the bottom floor at the northern side of the building. Room 104"

The commander would nod "Dismissed, thank you." before, once again, turning to the emperor and empress. "Right, so, we have our best operatives moving in, alongside your team. I'll distract them from the front. Any questions?"

[Astares Amauricanum]

Adrean and Anna, behind their balaclavas and their CrossCom shades, listen with attention to the Red Comander. Once she's finished, both of thdm look at each other, before looking back at the commander.
"Alpha Foxtrot Westwing, Alpha Delta skylight, us Phantoms through the back. 43 hostiles inside, most likely very well trained elements, which means us outnumbering them does not solve everything. Hostages located in Room 104, bottom floor North Side." Enumerates the Empress as she has her left hand pressed to her throat, most likely to speak into a throat microphone and therefore relay the informations to the rest of her and her husband's Guards.

"Aside from that Commander, here is some basic info on our gear right now, so please focus and remember it: we'll be going inside with our ACRs, as well as LMGs for our support gunners, backed by shotguns and our Masada 35 pistols. Our snipers will have their DMRs, Designated Marksman Rifles, backed by SMGs or PDRs.
The lens you can see here." He continues as he points to the central spot on his FAST helmet, "are connected to our CrossCom, and allow for magnetic and night vision modes to be displayed on our HUD shades. So if it's made of metal or in the dark, we'll be able to see it.
And finally." adds Adrean as he takes something out of a pocked of his plate carrier, " we have our sensors."
As he says that, he shows his hand to the Commander, revealing a small metallic ball.
"These sensors can detect nearby enemy contacts, and send their location back to our HUDs, allowing us to see them through everything, walls, smoke, etc. Unfortunately, we don't have the time to link up our system with yours in the 8 minutes we've got.
That will be all on our side Commander. I'll be going with my wife to brief our comrades, good luck. Strike Fast, Strike Deep." finishes Adrean as he points to his left shoulder, where there is the patch bearing the symbol of the Phantom Squadron, the same one adorning his balaclava.
And with that said, Adrean and Anna salute the Commander, before turning around and running outside to meet with the rest of the Phantoms, as well as their three Astarian Wolves, Oronar, Gopnik and Cairo.

8 minutes later...
The remaining time before the end of the ultimatum passed slowly but surely, allowing the Imperial Couple to meet with their Guards, explain the plan to them, and move quickly but quietly, like Phantoms, towards the back entrance of Georgia's residence.

The final plan laid for the Phantom Squadron would be this: Adrean and Pavel Morozov, respective callsigns Phantom 1 and Phantom 3, would be leading two assault columns starting from the back entrance.
Meanwhile, Anna and Yuri Petrenko, callsigns Phantom 2 and Plague 1, the best snipers the Imperium of Astares Amauricanum had to offer, would establish an iberwatch and support sniper position in the residence's gardens near the pool. To cover their back, they would rely on Alicia Morozov, callsign Phantom 4.
Of course, they had also taken care of syncing their radio frequencies wih the Iarann Squadrons Alpha Foxtrot and Alpha Delta.

And now, as the final seconds before the time is up tick by, all the Phantoms take a deep breath, ready to embark in another operation like many they overcame the whole previous decade...

[Geonal]

Geonal Intelligence Headquarters
Somewhere inside Geonal...

The Commander in charge of the Top Secret MR Operation was Commander Jetson, his goal, unknown to the Masked Resistance rebels was to lead them into a trap where they would fight to the death against the Grudaidhians. There was no rescue, no survival. What he didn't expect was the involvement of the Astares Americanum special forces. His phone would vibrate in his pocket, grabbing it and quickly reading the caller name, it was the Empress. Moving his finger and answering the call he'd greet the Empress with a simple "ma'am."
"Status Report, Commander." she'd speak, her heels and the combat boots of her guards audible in the background, clanking against a hard flooring, likely the marble floors of the Empresses mansion.
"The Grudaidhians have recieved help from the Americanums, spies spotted them landing at a military base an hour ago. Word has it they're planning a raid on the building at any moment. Our spies are still digging for more information."
"Good, Commander, Good. Remember, this is not an operation we openly care about. Send no back up, no help, the rebels are to die. This is an attack on the heart and moral of the Grudaidhians, nothing more."
"Of course ma'am, I will keep you updated."

The phone call ended with a click. A small smirk appeared on the Commander's face as he lifted a pen towards his face and rested his hand on his chin, he wondered how the Grudaidhians were gonna wriggle out of the hole he's forced them into, to the Empress, it's an attack on moral, to the Commander it's simply a game of checkers, there's no stakes, no repricutions for their failure, no total endgoal of this mission, for all the Empress cared he could fuck off to some beach the other side of Geonal, all he had to do was listen to what his spies informed him and ignore any and all future calls from the Masked Resistance. Excuse being that the calls must've been jammed... Tragic.

The Masked Resistance

The time slowly ticked by as the captain watched the highly trained soldiers waiting outside start moving to different positions, it seems they agreed to his little proposal, foolish, the 3 chosen Family Members weren't going to be released, the captain just wants an extra hostage to make the stakes that little bit higher. After all, the more Grudaidhians he gets to shoot the better, right?

Troops moved into position for the front doors to eventually be opened, they were to trade the 3 family members for the commanding officer, that wasn't going to happen, they'll run back in, guns blazing taking both the 3 family members and the commanding officer back into the building. He didn't care if a few of his men got injured because of it. He didn't care if the entire world hates the move, public opinion doesn't matter when you have the backing of numerous countries, right?

[Astares Amauricanum]

Oblivious to the thoughts of the Geonal Empress thousand of kilometers away, or the Masked Resistance fighters inside, Adrean, Anna and their Phantoms, as well as their three Astarian Wolves Gopnik, Cairo and Oronar, are now opening the festivities, as the Emperor opens the back door, allowing Major Gerald Minstky, aka Reaper 3, and Major Edward Hinkle, aka Plague 2, to take point and enter the SL's residence, their ACRs trained in front of them. Behind them, the rest of the Squadron also enters in an orderly fashion, in two columns, their weapons trained everywhere, the Astarian Wolves sniffing around, also clad in canine tactical gear.

After a few meters, the group made of Anna, Yuri Petrenko and Alicia Morozov, respective callsigns Phantom 2, Plague 1 and Phantom 4, separate themselves from the main columns, and go to the right, to set up their overwatch and sniper post in the gardens, overlooking the pool.
Meanwhile, the Squadron divides itself in two columns, one led by Adrean, Phantom 1, and made of Squads Reaper, Devil, Plague and Vampire. The other, led by Pavel Morozov, Phantom 3, and made of Squads Stalker, Witch, Slasher and Spectre.

After having progressed for a few other meters on their side, Adrean and his column arrive at a corner.
"Deploying sensor." whispers the Emperor in his radio, as he, second in line behind the pointman, takes out a sensor grenade and launches it around the corner. After a few seconds, two silhouettes appear on every Phantom's HUDs, visible through the walls.
"Two hostiles, assault rifles." whispers Phantom 1 in his radio.
-Phantom 2 here, overwatch set up and ready, I have visual on one hostile, the other is hidden behind a wall." Replies his wife over the radio as she adjusts her aim through her MSR chambered in 338 Lapua.
-Coordinated shot sweetheart? asks her husband.
-On your go. Hostiles marked." finishes Anna.

And so, discreetly, Adrean goes around Phillip Smetov whi was taking point, peeks around the corner with his ACR raised, aligns the head of the Masked Resistance fighter unseen by his wife through his Adaptative Holographic sight, and pressed the trigger.
At the same time, both heads of the tangos explode, speared by silenced rounds.
"Phantom 1 to all, two hostiles dispatched, resuming progression towards Room 104." says Adrean as he now takes point, and starts walking again, followed by his comrades.
-Phantom 3 copies, progressing as well towards Sierra Lima saferoom, no hostiles so far. " finishes Pavel as he progresses as well on the other side of the house.

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Around the Supreme Leader's Home

The commander took a breathe of fresh air as the breeze outside the Rapid Deployment Command Vehicle hit her balaclava. It was a cool 10*c on the island nation. The rapid movement of troops, readying for her making her way up to the building was visible on every corner of that building. She was awaiting the go-ahead from her team before walking through the main gates of the luxurious manor. She had a gut feeling, one she couldn't ignore, that they're going to fight to their last breathe. They went for the heart of Iarann Grudaidh, it made absolutely no sense to the Commander that they'll simply release 3 ultra-high hostages for one high at best. That family had thousands of global and nation-wide ties when the Commander was just a Commanding Officer for Vortex Special Forces, a new one at that. Failure could mean losing everything this nation stood for, it could mean international warfare at a new level, potentially a third world war. "Red Command, we're in position." the call from the radio would snap her out of her thoughts as she took a deep breathe. "Foxtrot and Delta Actual, go when ready. God Speed."

With that she made her way down the road, she could feel the eyes of the press, public and those of her own soldiers shoot lasers into her head. A shaky breathe escaped her lips as she continued a steady pace, slowly raising her hands as the doors of the front entrance opened. The commander was followed by two Vortex agents, guns raised as they awaited for the trade off. She saw a small quantity of Masked Resistance fighters make their way out of the front door, 3 of them holding three of the family members. They reached the middle of the main courtyard as the three family members were kicked to their feet. "Commander." the centre one would speak, it hit her like a brick, their accent was one of Geonal origin, under her balaclava she frowned angrily. "To be completely honest I was surprised to see you keep your word and... cooperate."

"Of course, I'm a woman who keeps her promises. The safety of these three is a lot more important than that of my own, afterall." she spoke, politely, for engaging the enemy in a petty exchange of words was not going to help the circumstances she is in. However, suddenly and without warning, 2 gunshots rang out and she was quickly grabbed by two of the remaining Masked Resistance agents. Two bodies could be heard dropping to the floor as an array of gunfire opened up at the front entrance. She didn't know what was happening, she was facing the building and couldn't move... But she knew whatever happened wasn't good.

Then it hit her, two gunshots, one for each of the guards that were protecting her before. Those fucking pricks. She knew they wouldn't keep their word and she was correct. Quite foolish actually, because it means that the entire rescue operation is a go.

Meanwhile...

Foxtrot Group were seperated into two groups, Foxtrot Alpha and Bravo, Bravo was to make entry through the second floor windows by rappelling up as Alpha made their way through the first floor windows. they slowly and quitely opened up the windows using a technology which melted the glass and allowed them to attach the glass to a suction cup type material, pulling the windows off of their original framing, they were able to gently place them on the ground before making entry to the building. Slowly sweeping through the rooms they entered, those on the second floor entered a large meeting room, while those on the first were inside the large kitchen area. The thoughts of the agents were interrupted when two gunshots rang out "We're overt, move move move!" Foxtrot actual would whisper into his radio.

"Placing Proximity." one would speak as the proximity sent a shockwave throughout the nearby area, green meant no hostiles, orange meant unconfirmed entities and red meant hostiles, a small counter next to the gadget detailed just how many they were dealing with. As it activated, a shockwave, both silent and invisible to the naked eye pulsated throughout the area every few seconds. they'd make their way sweeping throughout the hallways and shooting down any guards they came across before setting up an elaborate web of systems.


Delta Group were seperated as well, one for each skylight on the large building. Taking a deep breathe, the teams would descend the skylight into the individual stairwells, chokepoints which would block off any movement from the large and luxurious stairwells, placing down their own web of systems. Captain Oscar would hear a ping through his headset as he looked down to his sleeve console. "2 hostiles, top of stairwell, unaware." He'd whisper quitely into his radio. 2 troops moved up and shot down the two of them as his console notified with an "all clear."

▉▉▉▉▉▉▉▉▉,
▉▉▉▉▉,IARANN GRUDAIDH
S.A.U Security Headquarters

"Status report." the Commander would walk in, looking up at a large monitor within the main room of the Security Headquarters. "Currently no possible link of the current attack to Geonal. Still looking sir"
"good, keep at it, we have to get it right otherwise our bosses might just slaughter us themselves."

[Geonal]

Geonal Intelligence Headquarters
Somewhere inside Geonal...

The commander, Commander Jetson, was sitting at his desk inside the large Intelligence Headquarters building as he recieved notification of the engagement with Grudadhian forces. A smirk appeared on his face as the man thanked the informant and immediately drafted a letter to be given to their allies within the nation of Rhinocera, a large and somewhat corrupt nation. Rhinocera has always had their hand in the rebellion since it's first reaction, now, Geonal was approaching them to inform them of the engagement and the plans for the future.

Opening his keyboard he'd begin typing.

From the Office of the Geonal Intelligence Service

---

From:
Commander Jetson

Commander; Project Tridentforce

To:

Rhinocera Tridentforce Command

Subject:

Encryption Level: Maximum

---

To our brothers in arms,

Our teams within the Masked Resistance have made short work of the security forces, as you've likely already seen broadcasted on global news for the entire world to see. Stage 2 of our plan has gone into full speed, the taking of one of their Commanders was the success we were hoping for. It got the Grudaidhians even angrier (here I was, thinking that to be impossible). Soon the rebels utilized for the first stages of this project will be known as legends throughout their comrades. So far we have seen no indication that Iarann Grudaidh has pinned this attack on my nation. Therefore, our alliance is still safe. We've struck the heart and morale of Iarann Grudaidh, stopping their capital dead in it's tracks. Stage 3, the bloodiest stage is on it's way forth. Likely happening very soon.

Please write back upon seeing this


GLORY TO THE EMPIRE!

Commander Jetson
Geonal, Tridentforce Project Overseer

Little did Jetson know, the project and their ties with the rebels were soon to come to light, and a war was brewing.

[Rhinocera]

To: The Geonal Empire, Tridentforce Command
From: Rhinoceran Intelligence, Operation Tridentforce
Encryption: Maximum

Commander Jetson, we have taken notice of the global new broadcast. We are satisfied with how the plan has been executed up to this point. As is, we consider this operation a success. If the world knows that Iarann Grudaidh cannot even protect the family of it's own sovereign leader, then the resistance will be emboldened and empowered to act. Presence of the Astares forces should go even further to strengthen the resistance's resolve. Grudaidh, unable to protect their own ruler, has been forced to call upon allies to deliver salvation. The narrative that this will create will be far more effective than any visceral damage done today could possibly cause. We remain ready to assist and stand fast for the cause.

- Special Liaison Heston, Rhinoceran Intelligence

[Astares Amauricanum]

As the two Phantoms assaul columns continue advancing towards their designated targets inside the mansion, some gunshots are heard.
"Phantom 4 to all, the Vortex Commander has been captured at the front, her two guards KIA." says Alicia over the comms, as her other role aside from covering Anna's and Yuri's backs was to monitor the global situation and coordinate the Phantoms moves with the other units.
-Shit!" exclaims her husband Pavel, Phantom 3, as his group just took down another lone Masked Resistance Fighter. What about the Foxtrots?
-Alpha and Bravo just entered the playground." replies Alicia.
"Good." says Phantom 1, Adrean, over the comms. That means the whole operation is a go. Keep it tight people!" exclaims the Emperor in the radio, causing all the others to reply with a quiet "RAH!"
-Phantom 1, Phantom 4." says Alicia, "I just hacked int the mansion's PA system, and I was thinking of putting up a small psyop show. What do you think?
-Sure Phantom 4, send what you have, Ii'm sure it'll be good." replies Adrean with a quiet smile behind his balaclava.

After a few seconds wihout nothing, the mansion's corridors are suddenly filled with a voice, speaking in Astarian.

I am a real Astarian
Fight for the rights of every man
I am a real Astarian
Fight for what's right, fight for your life!

Just after the last words end, a guitar riff is heard, causing the Phantoms to smile behind their balaclavas.
At this precise moment, Anna and Yuri, who had been watching Foxtrot Alpha, take down two Masked Resistance who were trying to ambush them around a corner.
"Foxtrot Alpha Actual, this is Phantom 2" says the Empress over the comms as she keeps looking through her MSR scope. "We took down two tangos trying to ambush you to the right. Don't thank us."

When it comes crashing down and i hurts inside
You got to take a stand, it don't help to hide...

As the song continues, Adrean, still taking point at the head of his group, launches a flashbang in a room where three rebels were searching for something. Immediatly after the white flash, they are taken down with three synchronised shots to the head.
"Phantom 1, three more tangos down. Marking the position and continuing." announces the Emperor before his group resumes their slow and steady advance.

I am a real Astarian
Fight for the rights of every man
I am a real Astarian
Fight for what's right, fight for your life!

As the song keeps playing loudly all over the mansion, one thing would now be clear for everyone inside, whether it be Georgia the Supreme Leader, her family, or the rebels: the rescue was a go, and there would be no quarter shown to the Masked Resistance fighters...

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Home

The commander felt her knees buckle as she was thrown into a room surrounded by numerous hostiles and other hostages. She'd watch closely as one approached her and violently grabbed at her face, ripping the balaclava and beret off from her head as her ponytail was revealed. The rebels would laugh and look at the commander. "You're on our turf now, lady. I assure you your death will not be painless." One would say before walking away to deal with another one of the hostages. A moment later, one of the rebels kneeled down and looked into the commander's eyes, the Commander spoke in Scots Gaelic, the second language of Iarann Grudaidh "Bidh dùbhlan na bhàs dhut". Defiance will be the death of you. She'd smile as the person's face became plastered with confusion "My leader is safe, this nation loses nothing but time. You on the other hand, will die a painful death." she'd speak before hearing a song play over the PA. It caught her off guard, but she's heard it before. It's the song used by Astarians, laughing softly to herself she watched as the rebels looked around in confusion.


▉▉▉▉▉▉▉▉▉,
▉▉▉▉▉,IARANN GRUDAIDH
S.A.U Security Headquarters

The command room was dead silent as they watched the ongoing raid through a large TV planted on the wall of the room. They watched as Foxtrot and Delta teams sweeped through the building, taking the lives of numerous hostiles. "20 hostiles left" he heard over the comms. Suddenly, the commander recieved a call. Warhalk, a Grudaidhian spy, was calling him. He quickly grabbed his phone and paced out the room before answering. "Go"
"I have confirmation for you. Commander. I was able to get into their system and retrieve a letter of sorts, it's all I could find but it speaks volumes." the spy would relay the information detailed on the letter, including Geonal's ties with the nation of Rhinocera, a nation previously not on Grudaidhian radar, quite a powerful nation at that. "Thank you warhalk, return to homeland, godspeed."

He'd hang up the phone and proceed to call his General. "ma'am, I have forwarded a letter for your reviewal, once the Supreme Leader is safe, inform her that this rebellion is being operated by Geonal and Rhinocera."


DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Home

The special forces units would continue sweeping throughout the building, consistantly checking for hostiles as they made their way throughout the building. Foxtrot Actual was busy checking a small closet as he heard the crackle of the PA system as it came to life, suddenly, a song began blaring out of it. He was quite confused until it hit him, the Astarians were fucking with the enemy. A small smile plastered on his face. Hearing a couple silenced shots and what the Empress said over the comms "copy that, Phantom 2, continuing sweep, astardia." meaning godspeed in Gaelic. They continued to push around the corner as they ran into a large group of enemies, too close to shoot. He'd quickly grab his knife and pistol, stabbing one in the back of the neck while shooting his buddy, quickly pulling the knife out and dodging the barrel of a rifle and slicing their throat as the blood spewed out of their neck, their body slumping to the floor as the rifle dropped down next to them. His team would take out the rest of them as he switched back to his rifle. "Foxtrot Actual to Foxtrot Alpha Agents, advance to saferoom. Foxtrot Bravo clear your current area and regroup with Alpha, lets retrieve the Supreme Leader... Foxtrot Actual to Delta Actual, be advised, we're going for the supreme leader, advance towards the hostage room, astardia."

Advancing his way towards the saferoom, planting their devices around the location and eliminating any hostile presence in the area. They'd advance to the door hidden behind a wooden compartment behind a large painting. Banging on the painting Foxtrot actual would speak. "bidh dùbhlan..." awaiting for those inside to finish the sentence.
"...na bhàs dhut" the Commander of the Supreme Guard would reply. Opening the saferoom as Bravo linked back up to them, revealing the supreme leader and a small group of Supreme Guard units "good to see you ma'am." he'd speak to her. She'd nod "quite right." One thing Foxtrot Actual admired about the Supreme Leader was her calmness, she never let anyone see her true rage, though, she won't likely be all sunshine and rainbows during her speech regarding the attack.

"Foxtrot to all callsigns, be advised we have L Package, Evacuating, be ready for evac, snipers get ready in case hostiles flee outside the building." He'd speak as the, now large, group of Vortex units made their way through the large building, heading for the front entrance. Pushing forward as they evacuated the leader quickly and ruthlessly. The doors slid open as the shouting and sirens from outside, as well as the sunlight, hit the units. They continued their way to the evacuation point, where a large convoy was waiting for the supreme leader, the guard units would move into the vehicles and drive off with the Supreme Leader to a military airport, where they'll take a flight to the second house, usually used during large scale events like Grudaidhian Day. Foxtrot squadron would move back into the building and continue eliminating the hostiles. "All units be advised, L Package secured and evacuated. Priority is now the family and our Commander. astardia"

Delta Actual would listen over the comms as they continued to sweep through the building, entering through the skylights gave them a tactical advantage, that being surprise and speed. "Delta Actual to all Delta callsigns, priority target is the Supreme Leader's family. Advance from your current positions and meet in the middle, once we're there flash and clear." as both parts of the squadron did just that, moving from their current position to the location they were required that, they expected to meet up with the Astarians and Foxtrot Squadron in the process.

[Geonal]

The Masked Resistance
Iarann Grudaidhian Supreme Leader's house

The commander breathed softly, he knew no help was coming and his fate was up to the enemies, readying to breach that door at any second. Fuck it, wanna send a message? Send it hard. Send it painfully. Send it with passion. He'd unholster his glock and aim it at the head of the Supreme Leader's third child. bang, screaming. "Disgusting piece of Grudaidhian shit." he'd speak as their body flopped to the floor, lifeless and motionless. Moving onto another one, the brother. Bang, screaming again. he watched as the Supreme Leader's brother quickly died. Before quickly executing the Supreme Leader's sister and grandson, before aiming the gun at the second son... Hesitating to shoot, time seemed to slow as suddenly the enemy was moving in...

The hostages screamed loudly, 4 family members ruthlessly executed, one after the other as a 5th was near to death... A cowardly move no less, not only that, what he's done would escelate the war completely. This was a quadruple assassination. Meaning that Geonal was about to face it's darkest era, with their plans exposed to the Grudaidhians and their security compromised, no doubt would the NOSA forces peak their head into the war...

The commander's allies and teammates who were inside the room were speechless, watching it happen and feeling the full gravity of what just happened. "w-what the fuck... did you just..." one soldier would speak, their eyes widening with each word that passed their lips... "fuck... fuck fuck FUCK." as their eyes immediately darted to the door...

The war was about to begin, every second that ticked by signified the doom and gloom that was about to hit the Geonal people

[Astares Amauricanum]

"You're welcome Foxtrot Alpha, resuming overwatch, Phantom 2 out." replies Anna over the radio to the Iarann Squadron as she looks back through her scope, carefully scanning the building in search for threats.

After a few moments, as the two Phantom columns continue their advance towards their objectives, they all hear over the radio that Georgia has been extracted by the Special Assault Squadrons.
"Phantom 1 to all, we copy on all. Be advised, we are moving first on the Supreme Leader's family, that is non negotiable. Phantom 3, you copy? " Says Adrean over the comms, before asking Pavel, leading his own column a few corridors away.
"Phantom 1, Phantom 3, we copy loud and clear. We'll backtrack our way to you, and will encircle Room 104 from the other side. Meet you there.
-Phantom 1 copies all, out." finishes the Emperor, before motioning to his comrades to keep moving forward, raising his ACR again in front of him.

A few minutes later...
After having turned around many corners, Adrean and his Phantoms are now nearing Room 104.
As they throw another Sensor grenade, the signal sends to their HUDs the position of two enemies in front of the door, as well as some of Pavel's men arriving from the other side.
"Phantom 1 to 3, what do you say we let the Wolves have some fun?
-Phantom 3, good idea."
As they say that, both men, each on their side, motion to two of the 3 Astarian Wolves accompanying them. For Adrean, he looks down towards Oronar, his own pet, still a puppy but already the size of three quarters of a German Sheperd. His fur, grey-blue and white, is partially hidden by his tactical gear and protections, as well as the googles he's wearing.
For Pavel, it is Cairo, an adult Astarian Wolf, grey and white, also clad in tactical gear with googles. Although Cairo iq not Pavel's pet, but rather the one of Patrick and Alexandra Leonheart, aka Stalker 1 and Witch 1.

As they motion to the canines, Oronar and Cairo nod back to their owners, before taking off around each corner as one. In just under two seconds, the two Masked Resistance rebels are caught by their throats by the powerful jaws, and brought to the ground as they die.
As Oronar and Cairo finish tearing apart the throats; the two Phantom columns advance slowly from each side towards Room 104, slowly lowering their weapons to not shoot at each other.

But before they can say anything to each other, some gunshots are heard inside the room.
"SHIT SHIT SHIT!" shouts Albert Freeman, callsign Plague 5.
"REAPER 1, BREACH SIDE! " shouts Adrean to his friend Phillip Smetov, the squad leader of Reaper Squad, and an explosives specialist.
-REAPER 1 WILCO, STAND CLEAR!" shouts Phillip in answer as he picks some C4 and breaching charges from his bagpack, before starting to position the wall on the right side of the door. Once that is done, he takes the detonator in hand, before motioning to his colleagues to stand away from the breaching point, which they do rapidly and without a word, Adrean and Pavel being on point respectively on the left and right sides
"BREACH!" shouts Reaper 1 as they all turn their backs from the wall, to shield themselves from the explosion.

In an instant, the corridor, along with the Phantom's bodies, is shaken by an intense shockwave, as a brigt light iluminated their surroundings.
Without waiting, Adrean and Pavel turn back again towards the wall, now with a big, fuming hole in its place, raise their rifles and enter the room, Oronar being first with them.

As the time seems to slow down, like many times before it did for them, they analyze the situation. 4 terrorists, plus one with a glock pistol aimed at Georgia's second son head. Lying on the ground in a pool of blood with holes in their heads, the Supreme Leader's third son, brother, sister and grandson, all dead. And still alive, the first and second son, as well as the Vortex Commander.
There will be time for grieving later. simply think the Emperor and his friend, in the second it took for them to see and understand all this. Without a word, Adrean with his ACR, and Pavel with his Stoner 20 LMG, press the triggers.
In a second, two terrorists fall under Phantom 3 bullets, the Emperor hislts another one straight in the head, before hitting another one in the arm, just in the elbow.
Meanwhile, Oronar, like a good and intelligent canine who knows what his master awaits of him, runs to the Masked commander, andd bites him straigt in the arm below the shoulder, bringing him to the ground as he shouts in pain.

"CLEAR!" shouts Adrean once everything has settled down, and the adrenaline rush has died down a bit.
As he says that, the rest of the Phantoms enter the room, and go straight to the hostages, untying them.
"It's okay now, you're safe. Don't worry, everything will be alright." says Catherine Smetov, callsign Devil 1, and a medic, as she unties Georgia's first son, before starting to check him for any wounds.
-With all due respect girl, I don't think so." replies her colleague Charles Shaw, callsign Plague 4, and also a medic himself, as he does that with the second son. "Four hostages dead,only a half victory for us, and the ones behind all of this will soon have to answer for it.
-You're absolutely right, whoever backed this, we will have their heads and their hearts on spikes." finishes Adrean with a very somber tone, as he finishes attaching a tourniquet to the wounded terrorist's arm, in order to prevent bloodloss from the elbow bullet wound, and passing it to Michael Dempsey, callsign Reaper 5.

"Phantom 3 to all, " starts Pavel over the comms, with a sad tone, " we have secured the hostages, three are remaining, the SL's first and second son, and the Vortex Commander. We have four confirmed hostages dead, the SL's third child, brother, sister, and grandson. We also have taken down three terrorists, two other including the leader arz wounded but alive. Requesting immediate reinforcements and bodybags. Phantom 3 out."

"Now, on to you." says Adrean as he walks to the Masked Commander, still held down by Oronar. On a whistle from his master, the Astarian Wolf stops biting him down, and releases him from his jaws.
That done, the Emperor takes another tourniquet handed to him by one of the Phantoms, and attaches to the Masked's commander's arm.
"There, this way, you won't take your secrets with you in the tomb." He says with an sarcastic tone, before taking a dose of morphine rom his first aid kit and injecting it in the terrorists's arm.
"We're going to keep you alive, and you will spill all of you secrets to us. And if you think we'll wear our patience on you, don't worry, you have yet to meet MY patience." Finishes Adrean with a determined tone, his face mere inches from the commander's own.

[Geonal]

The raid happened at lightning speeds as the commander felt himself fall to the ground, the speed at what everything was happening at stopped him from finishing his job, only 4 dead instead of the commander's goal of all hostages dying. This was it, the end of the road, likely sent to be tortured for information before being executed for the assassinations of 4 Grudaidhian family members. He felt himself get let go from the dogs grip as one of the Phantoms walked up to him. Laughing softly at what the man said... "You're foolish to think I'll speak after I slaughtered those Grudaidhian scum, one by one by one. It wasn't easy getting in here but oh was it fucking worth it to shoot those little shits in the head and watch their bodies become lifeless." He turned his head to face the Grudaidhian commander "ah, some are still alive, tragic." he'd speak again, his voice remaining monotone. There were no signs of empathy from the clearly deranged man.

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Home

The Foxtrot and Delta Squadrons were clearing rooms nearby to the hostage room as a large explosion ripped it's way through the building, audible throughout the halls "what the fuck was that" Foxtrot Actual would speak, knowing something caused it, and that something wasn't good. Advancing their way towards the hostage room as smoke slowly started enveloping them. But before they could continue they heard phantom 3 speak... Listening carefully to what they said. "fuck..." he'd mumble victory comes to those who fight through the hardships. he thought to himself. "Foxtrot Actual to Phantom 3, we copy, advancing towards your position." he'd speak, the one he was most hurt to hear was of the third child, the third child was someone he's encountered during his time within the Supreme Guard, for a time he was the personal bodyguard of the Second son and usually encountered or chatted with the boy when they saw each other. Letting out a cold breath and advancing into the room, encountering the bloody scene before him at the tail end of a conversation.

He'd slowly scan the room, his eyes falling to the bloodied dead corpses of the hostages as it truly sank in what happened. Seeing the commander still tied up and advancing, taking his bloodied knife out and wiping it with a cloth before snapping the restraints with it. Watching as the commander felt her wrists and stood up, grabbing her red beret and placing it atop her head. "Alright... Status report." she'd say, catching the dead corpses in the corner of her eye.

Foxtrot Actual would speak "Delta Team going through final clearing phase, checking smaller areas for any stragglers. Majority of opfor deceased, 2 arrested including CO" he'd point towards the two now being dealt with by the Astarians. "As you already know, 4 hostages and Supreme Family members KIA. Would you like me to inform the Supreme Leader?" he'd question, watching the Commander. "no. I'm the commanding officer, it's my job to report that. Get the remaining uninjured hostages to the second house, you know where the convoys are." and Foxtrot team would do just that, after the Astrians checked them over for wounds, the two sons were evacuated to the second home as the Commander advanced her way towards the Command Vehicle in order to go onto a call with the Supreme Leader.


DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Second Home (Evac Point Alpha)

The Supreme Leader was washing her hands and looking in the mirror, staring at her messy and dirtied hair before turning off the tap which trickled water from the tap into her palms, shaking her hands to shake excess water off and grabbing a nearby towel, drying her hands. She'd fix her hair back into position and sort her suit, tucking her shirt back in. Looking lost into her eyes as thoughts about the security of her family members ran rampant through her mind. look strong, confident and nobody will know how broken you are. Remember the poker face. something drilled into her head as a child by màthair. "ma'am, you have a broadcast from Commander Downing." her thoughts quickly evaporated as she opened her door "follow me, please."

As she walked into the broadcast room, a large monitor covering the majority of the wall as she spoke "status report, Commander Downing." her eyes would go dark, examining the expressions of the Commander. "ma'am... the Commander would begin to speak. "Astrians were the first to make it to the hostage room, readying to breach they heard single fire gunshots, that of a pistol, at a decent pace. Astrians advanced and eliminated 3 hostiles, injuring and capturing two... Unfortunately- her voice would break as her composure started to tumble into a world of pain, the panicked voices inside the Supreme Leader's head started to become louder and louder. Unfortunately... 4 hostages were executed by the Commanding Officer. the supreme leader felt the world hit her at rapid speed as her breathing became rapid. she looked directly into the eyes of the Commander. "Please, tell me, Commander Downing." she'd speak, watching the Commander's every single movement within the command room. "Your grandson, your brother... Your sister and your third son were all executed before troops could get in. Luckily we stopped them before more were executed, they tried to target the others. I am so deeply sorry." the Supreme Leader fell to her knees as the world around her began to crumble. She was infuriated, not at her own. The Supreme Leader knew how much her family is loved by the people, and knew that her teams would do anything for them... Getting up again and taking a shaky breath as her guards checked to make sure she was okay. "Thank you, Commander General Downing." she'd look into her eyes "Once the situation is clear, pl,ease contact me."

The one thing she didn't expect from herself was to promote the person who failed to protect her family, but it felt right that there was some good news for that woman. The Supreme Leader knows how guilt works, and knew that now wasn't the time to punish anyone for their failures, it doesn't change the past. "Yes ma'am, goodbye." the Commander General would speak as the call shut off and the light that the monitor previously held within the room vanished as the screen went black and the words "call ended" appeared upon the screen. Taking another shaky breath she'd look at one of her guards, who was walking over to her. "ma'am, have a read of this." he'd hand a letter. immediately she'd notice a large, red flag... that flag being the one of Geonal. A letter addressed to a nation known as Rhinocera. "S.A.U spies intercepted this." she began reading. Those fuckers had the entire idea around their fingers, she didn't know if they planned for them to execute the four hostages, what she definitely knew was that they didn't expect their dirty laundry to be aired to the world.

"I'll contact Port Ember after my speech, speaking of, please get Grudaidhian press to the press room immediately. Inform all foreign embassys that Iarann Grudaidh will be going to full war." she'd quickly walk out of the room and into her office, planning her speech.

45 minutes later
The Supreme Leader walked into the room, accompanied by Vortex Security Forces. "This morning, as you all know, my house was under siege by a terrorist cell known as The Masked Resistance." she'd pause, opening a book infront of her. "These men and women of this terrorist group got lucky, due to a mixture of lack of security and a press conference on that day, they were able to catch us off guard and take down a large amount of the house's security forces. Throughout the situation I remained unharmed and in a secure safe-room." she'd look up at the camera. "I have the deepest regrets to inform you of the deaths of 4 of my family members. One being my own son, Jonathan Grudaidh." she'd look down to the podium she stood at. "Another being my brother, my sister and my grandson... I have some semi-good news, however." she'd flip the page and stare at the letter written to Rhinocera. "Agents working behind the lines of Geonal were able to intercept a letter directed towards a Rhinocera task force, written regarding the incident which took place this morning. It states the various stages of their plan, how they have built up a 'rebellion' in an attempt to crush the glorious nation of Iarann Grudaidh... For them I have one message. You may have gotten lucky, but my men will never stand down." The anger flooded her as her blood boiled, gripping the podium. "my men will NEVER stand down, will never give a fighting chance to those who have attempted to attack the heart of my great nation. I WILL NOT BACK DOWN UNTIL EVERY SINGLE PERSON WHO'S HANDS ARE BLOODIED WITH THE BLOOD OF MY FAMILY ARE BROUGHT TO JUSTICE." she bagan shaking in anger as she looked directly at the camera, the anger sent shockwaves throughout her guards and the reporters. Taking a deep breath she levelled her tone back down. "I am enacting Order 51 to prevent any further attacks to Grudaidhian soil. I will also be in talks with my allies within Astares Americanum and Port Ember. I promise you, we will not stop, we will not waver, we will not surrender and most importantly, we will bring security and justice to the people of Iarann Grudaidh." she ended her speech and walked out of the room.

She would return to her broadcasting room as they contacted the president of Port Ember, watching the screen and awaiting an answer.

[Astares Amauricanum]

"Don't worry, interrogating you will also be worthy for us." replies Adrean to the Masked commander, in a very cold tone,tn the one only used by a seasoned veteran, who became a cold-blooded individual due to his job.

As Foxtrot Alpha arrives in Room 104, Adrean simply nods to Foxtrot Actual and the Vortex Commander.
"We'll leave you guys to it." says the Emperor to the two Grudaidhians, before lifting his balaclava slightly, revealing his mouth, only to grab the pipe of his Camelback pack, and taking a long drag of water. "Meanwhile, we'll be taking those two fuckers with us." He adds as he jerks his head towards the two remaining Masked Rebels still alive, the commander and his soldier. The two terrorists, after having had tourniquets wrapped around their arm, are now being handcuffed in their backs,as well as being blindfolded and gagged, each one by a Phantom Squad.
"If you need us, we'll go back to the entrance and speak with Commander Downing, see you soon." finishes Phantom 1, before motioning to his comrades to follow him out of the room, the terrorists with them

"Phantom 2, you there?" asks Adrean once the Squadron has started walking through the corridors back to the entrance, passing incoming Iarann troops here and there.
-Phantom 2 copies, I still have you in my scope 1. Good job in there, only a bit late." replies Anna on the other side, indeed having her husband's head in her scope.
-Yeah, bad shit always happens." sighs the Emperor. "Anyway, file out with 4 anw Plague 2, and meet us at the entrance.
-Solid copy, Phantom 2 out." Finishe the Empress, before standing up from her lying position and motioning to her two colleagues to leave the overwatch point.

A few minutes later...
Back at the entrance, the Phantom Squadron is now once again wholly reunited. After Adrean and Anna have exchanged a few deep kisses,only lifting their balaclavas to free their mouths, before putting them back on (the same thing happening to Pavel and Alicia, as well as Yuri and Patricia.), they now walk back towards the spot where the Special Assault Unit command vehicle is parked,qs well as their own MRAPs they used to come.
As Adrean and Anna motion to the rest of the Squadron to secure the two terrorists in their vehicles, and keep overwatch, they approach the command vehicle, nodding to the SAU guards outside before stepping inside, and meeting Commander Downing.
"Mission accomplished Commander Downing, if we can say that." says Adrean with a neutral but a bit sad tone. "We have two Masked Resistance fighters in our custody, including the commander.
-If you don't mind Commander," continues Anna, "can you please indicate to us where is the Supreme Leader currently located, so that we can go meet her? And also, has anything new come up of who was behind the attack?" Asks the Empress, as the Astarians are for reminder not yet aware of the letter between Geonal and Rhinocera.

[Port Ember]

Republic of Port Ember
Lilly Black House - Presidential Residence

The terror group known only as the Masked Resistance managed to pull off the unthinkable and strike at the very heart and soul of Port Ember's staunch allies - Iarann Grudaidh, when they managed to attack the residence of the Supreme Leader. Besides killing numerous security personnel in the assault, they murdered four family members of the leader in cold blood. The Iarann Grudaidh special forces alongside the common ally of Astares Amauricanum managed to dispatch off the assailants, albeit too late.

Despite being such a close and valued ally, and fellow member of the Northern Ocean Strategic Alliance (NOSA), Port Ember could not deploy a strategic team of their own to solve the crises - firstly due to time constraints, and secondly due to the current political landscape. The Republic was war fatigued, waging constant war against enemies of freedom and society for more than ten consecutive years. The general public has had enough of their brave lads and lassies laying down their lives for foreign nations in foreign lands, all part of the Republic's quest to establish itself as a superpower amongst the nations of the globe. This dissatisfaction led to President Edward Flint promising his people, his nation, that the Republic would scale down on its international military interventions. This was no easy task as the Republic had made it their business to combat communism and terrorism wherever it reared its vile roots, and that philosophy has given birth to a great number of enemies. Further complicating matters was the fact that an active state of war existed between the Republic and the Empire of Geonal, the very same Empire who had financed the terror attack in the heart of their allies core.

The fact that the terrorists and their shot-callers needed to be drowned in blood was an unavoidable one - that much President Flint knew. But he had to be smart about it if he was to win a war without actually going to war. Not an easy task to say the least. Complicating matters even further was the fact that a unscheduled video conference was now scheduled to take place between Edward and the Supreme Leader, and she would obviously be blinded by rage and sorrow. If she was to go 'hot' in a war - Edward would be bound by treaty (a treaty he gave birth to no less) to join her - and it would cost him his presidency no doubt.

Edward remained seated upon his shark leather, rotary office chair, situated within the grand luxurious presidential office. Edward muted the television which was broadcasting the aftermath of the terror attack, switching on the monitor of the computer situated on his side desk, pivoting the chair in order to face it head on. He clicked to initiate the incoming secure video call.

The call came live and a scene of a Broadcast Room fluttered to life, in the centre the Supreme Leader wearing a suit, as per usual. Surrounded by guards inside a dark yet luxurious room.
“President Flint, my assumption is that you’ve heard of the attack which took place several hours ago as every broadcast station in the entire fucking world is broadcasting the news.” she’d start, her eyes piercing metaphorical lasers into the President’s head. “Now, I know that you’re not wanting to go to war, that your people aren’t wanting to go to war but my people need more allies we can count on. I’d do the exact same if it were Port Ember.”

Edward nodded, nothing he did not expect as of yet.
"Georgia, first things first… I wish to convey my absolute and sincere wishes of sorrow in this difficult time. This sentiment is shared between me and my entire nation. Losing a loved one to the dark oceans of the afterlife is never an easy affair, even more so under the current circumstances. I have no possible way to even begin to imagine your anger and sorrow. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family in these turbulent times" Edward knew he did not answer Georgia's concerns, instead refocusing the direction of the conversation. It's difficult to take the politician out of a politician after all.

The Supreme Leader would listen to the words of the President. “Yes, anger is one way to describe it. Another way to describe what I’d do if I saw that Geonal Empress in person… well, I suppose it’d be undiplomatic and impolite to say such words aloud.” she’d look down for a second, pondering her word choice with deep care. “My family is beloved by my people, we’re their leaders after all. That being said, they’ve lost 4 beloved family members too. This is the worst assassination in Grudaidhian history. We need to show that we will not let such slaughterings of leadership take place without extreme repercussions. I need to know I have your backing.” She’d continue to push for a loud intervention to Geonal and Rhinocera operations, once again scanning the face of the Port Emberian President.

Edward paused for a moment as he attempted to read Georgia's face, matching it with her last statement. She was difficult to read on a good day - but now it was near impossible to deduce her inner musings. Understandably ofcourse, as Edward knew that if someone would hurt his family, he would burn down the entire planet in an act of revenge. But that was not the aim today. Not entirely…
"Georgia, by now you should know that what you ask of me should be a rhetorical issue by now. I have had my men and women bleed for your nation before - my loyalty to our alliance has always been, and will remain, unquestionable." This much was fact beyond doubt. Less than a year ago, the vile nation know as the Nation of War launched an invasion upon Iarann Grudaidh, and as per the NOSA Pact, Port Ember sent forth its mighty Navy to aid in the defence of their neighbour.

Edward continued after skipping a beat, "My only question is, what are you planning to do exactly?"

The moment she heard Edward question what she had planned, she hid a smile. One thing Edward knew all too well was that she was absolutely unreadable, it was a part of who she was, a professional and unreadable person.
“I remember our talks regarding Operation Chimera, the deployment of our troops behind Geonal soil… Back on Grudaidhian Day, a while ago now. Geonal is planning for a full-scale invasion on our side, to be honest I feel a desire to nuke the two nations and call it a day, but the civilian casualties would make that idea fall to pieces. My nation is usually seen as evil, I prefer to use the term… Efficient.” her face remained neutral. “S.A.U Commanders have been talking to me from the moment I got evacuated from my home. They’ve recommended numerous variables. I’ve come to the realization that Operation Chimera would be an accident waiting to happen. There have been a few ideas that I quite like but with deeper thought, the implications of said ideas have a low success rate... Another reason I contacted you was to help scheme the response. The world is once again watching how my nation acts.”

Edward nodded once more as Georgia initiated silence, awaiting his reply. President Flint knew he had to approach this matter in a smart and efficient manner - there were so much at stake - too much to be able to afford the slightest of mistakes.
"Well, firstly I am glad you have already decided against the possibility of going nuclear - I did not look forward to convince you otherwise." That much was fact - Edward feared that Iarann Grudaidh would immediately respond with a nuclear strike - which would be disastrous beyond any imaginable manner. "However, I need to be the unfortunately reasonable character in this story dear friend - we cannot invade these scumbags. Not you, and not me. And not our common ally Astares Amauricanum, or any NOSA ally or affiliate. The terrible and unfortunate facts is that even though we know who is responsible for this vile attack - we have no irrefutable evidence. If we respond in open violence, we will be labeled the aggressor, and we will allow our enemies Global support, and dishonor the deaths of your family members. We need to approach this situation.. with tact."

Georgia would listen to the words of her ally and friend, biting her tongue as hard as possible, deep down she knew he was absolutely right. "I wonder if we could give them a taste of their own revenge?" she'd ponder for a second. "they set up a terror group to attack my country… what if I did some public stuff, say take a more defensive position, while you work your magic behind Geonal lines?" she would watch the Presidents eyes with extreme care, one thing she was good at was analysing someone's emotions, it's how she masks her own quite well.

Edwards's lips formed a soft smile as Georgia spoke. This conversation was going better than he could ever possibly imagine. Despite the unspeakable nature of the tragedy which have befallen her and her people, she remained amenable and logical - a rare occurrence in today's wild world. After a brief pause, Edward replied,
"Well.. I can agree to that. In fact - the wheels of Geonal's utter destruction has already been set in motion the second their name was mentioned in this attack. Not discussing specifics - I can promise you that our enemies will pay very dearly for their idiotic actions." Edward could not discuss specifics even if he wanted to after all, he had merely given the Port Ember Foreign Intelligence Agency authority and instruction to "Do what you must with those rats". His Agency will take care of the murky business at hand. Edward could not stomach the facts which was about to be unleashed anyway.
"As for our public response, we can not take this laying down offcourse- we can not appear weak at any given second. Thus, I will publicly condemn our enemies and call for diplomatic and economical pressure from all across the globe in an effort to starve them of friends and food. I am also considering deploying my Navy near the Empire - not to engage - but as an intimidation tactic." Edward knew that if his world renowned navy would enter the picture, most nations would immediately throw their support behind NOSA and her allies. Possessing a navy which haven't lost a single battle since its inception has proved to make for a remarkable intimidation tactic.

Georgia would nod, it was refreshing to hear someone who’s plans weren’t made out of anger or mourning.
“Of course, as you may already be aware my nation has already enacted Order 51, you may remember that order from the last guy who threatened to attack us… Make it look like we’re prioritizing the defensive. My men have never been more ready, my commanders are working at full speed. We have already introduced the possibility of Martial Law, I have doubts that this will be the last attack they try to pull on my nation. The terror threat has been raised to Ultra.” she’d begin almost listing off what she’s gotten done in the hours after the attack. “Some of the actions I’m taking are… Lets just say they’re to trick the enemy in thinking that we’re scared, that they have power over my nation.” she’d think for a moment. “To attack the heart of a superpower like they’ve done to myself, they must feel extra cocky, we will use that to our advantage.”

Edward nodded once again, satisfied that logic, reason and might will be the order of the day - and not emotion.
"That is all very satisfying replies Georgia. I urge you to hunt for any rats hiding within your nation - and exterminate them without fear or favour. Our enemies must know that they will not gain a foothold within our nations. I will now move to act upon my promise to you. Skip your dinner tonight dear friend - for tonight you will dine upon the severed head of an Empress."

A sadistic smile would form upon the Supreme Leader’s face as the President spoke.
“Of course. My intelligence agency will send you a sitrep. Talk soon.” she’d once again look at the President as the screen turned to black and the call ended, appearing with that familiar white text.

---

[Co-RP'd with Iarann Grudaidh]

[Iarann Grudaidh]

DUFF GARDENS,
ORNESS, IARANN GRUDAIDH
Supreme Leader's Second Home (Evac Point Alpha)

Taking a heavy breath after the call ended and the room fell silent her thoughts were disrupted by a call. Checking the Caller ID she'd see it was Commander General Downing, answering the call she'd speak "go, general." and awaiting her reply, quickly stepping out of the room and into the outer holiday where her two personal guards followed. "Ma'am, I have the Americanumians with me, they have the Commander and a Solider and we are making our way to you, ETA unknown due to traffic restrictions." the Commander General would reply as the hum of the engine and moving of the tires became apparent in the background.

"Thank you... General. See you soon" she'd reply, ending the call and taking a shaky breath. The men who killed her family were coming to her in an armoured convoy. Lets pray she doesn't shoot em on the spot.