[Kerbin Only] Kerbin in Jeopardy

[Toonu Empire]

The imperial route

As per the tradition, this coronation will be followed by the route of imperial sovereign around the archipelago along the road established in previous millennia encircling the island. The local governments will ceremonially recognize the emperor as their rightful liege and head of the state in all parts of the empire. The first phase of the journey, which would take place on the foot symbolising the journey of the kings of old in the times when no horses had been used for riding on the island chain. First stop will lead the crown to the city of Aquilia, the capital of the Aquilian Kingdom, whose allegiance will now be translated from him to the future Grand Princess Iclia. The transfer of all titles and positions will take place along all stops on the travel and is a traditional form of transfer of power in the Iconian Empire. Even the smallest count is obliged to travel and meet all of his barons and other vassals. The days of joy await.

Follows the words of the Tribunus Angusticlavius of the Imperial Household Agency who is the head of the preparation works of the coronation ceremony. ‘The Iconian Monarchy has endured for thousands of years in merely 7 dynasties among all difficulties and revolutions. I believe that this institution will uphold its traditions and prestige to continue to point the nation in the right direction and benefit its citizens with His Illustrious Highness the Grand Prince Theodorus and also his successors. The Imperial Household Agency works hard to fulfill the requirements of the difficult ceremony of coronation to make sure it will happen precisely as we intended it to take place. Currently I cannot disclose any information related to the ceremony as the final details aren’t tuned to the finest ends and therefore cannot be yet commented. The IHA plans to work with the IRA on the technological aspect of the ceremony and both agencies will publish a date of a press conference where majority details could be published’.

The view of the governmental agency is clear, but what does the public opinion think? We have asked a few randomly chosen passersby.

‘Yes, we will watch the coronation, why wouldn't we? This happens only once per lifetime if there isn’t any unexpected disaster. Since everyone will be given a free day, we plan to gather the family and enjoy the show’,

‘Yes I think I will watch the ceremony because I am curious about the fashion choices of all the hosts at the ceremony and their fashion, I am working as a designer and this would be a very interesting event that could direct fashion in Iconia for a few next years.’

‘No I won’t watch the ceremony. I am grateful for the day off though. I will spend it with my family enjoying ourselves.’

‘Yes I plan to attend the ceremony in the capital to supervise my inn. It would be great for business with all the people pouring into the capital.’

‘No I definitely won’t attend. I think it's just not needed for my or anyone’s benefit to do these kind of things, watch them or even attend them’

Stay tuned for more detailed information because many more is to come with the ceremony forming and the nation’s unifying once more.

[Faulksnia]

Foksberg, Faulksnia: Early Afternoon

"So, any questions?" The Barkadian diplomat broke the silence after the last Faulksnian finished thumbing through the file. There were a few glances around the Fokser half of the large, circular table

"Is this a finished product or a rough draft? I mean, there's been small groups calling for better relations for decades but I think I can speak for all of us when I say we'd need a lot of public feedback to feel comfortable proposing a referendum to the main council."

"That's a great question, Councilmember Schmid. This has been approved as-is but we anticipated you might need to make alterations. My government is ready to work with you to get this passed. As long as we all feel comfortable about it, the specific words on the joint constitution don't matter to us."

"Thank you."

* * * * *

The sun was setting behind the hills by the time the Diplomatic Council adjourned for the day. Several of the members walked together through a dusting of snow to the nearby bus stop.

"Do you think people will really back unification?"

"Yeah, my whole neighborhood's been flying black flags since the Barkadian election. People want to support other movements. If anything, the decision not to make a public announcement in support of the August movement might have been... Rude?"

"You see why the PC couldn't, though, right?"

"I know, I know, we couldn't have them turning genocidal like the Edusans. But the imperial socialist party didn't know what they were doing. These are our bloody next-door neighbors."

"I think it's a bit sketchy that they've come to us before the seats are officially inaugurated but if they seriously want to get everything done in a year, it makes sense."

"There's no way we're getting this done in a year. It'll be March AT LEAST before referendum results come in. At least, and the ink won't dry on anything much before June."

"The city's come a long way in a year, and the free lands in less than that. Don't get me wrong, I don't think we'll have a full national integration by next Yule, but their timeline for economic integration seems reasonable enough."

As a long public bus rounded the corner, they hushed up. A burst of warm air fogged up one councilmember's glasses as the group boarded the vehicle.

"Huh." An unhoused woman sat up momentarily on the bench she'd been sitting on before rolling over and going back to sleep.

[Barkadia]

2 August Movement Headquarters

They won. They actually fucking won. The results were confirmed a week ago and he still could not believe it. His acceptance speech, partially ruined by the sudden blizzard and -20 degree weather was just a faint memory already. The rest of the week had been just a blur of celebrations, office work, and congratulating the Councilmembers that would serve alongside him for at least the next year. The ride to the top was so rapid and unbelievable that he wasn't sure if he was dreaming or not. He gazed into the distance and fell back into a collection of memories.

He remembered being a teenager in the 1990s, watching his parents sign union paperwork and draw signs for a strike against the owner of their factory. He remembered the victories and the defeats they all suffered through. His dad was fired from the oil job and they had to relocate south to Kora. His mom had to take on two jobs, and he had to drop out of school and work at a chain restaurant for 8 hours a night. He remembered finally obtaining his diploma after narrowly being allowed to reenter school. He was the oldest one at the graduation ceremony. His classmates always made fun of him for being late to the party, being an idiot. He grinned at the thought. He remembered being a sophomore in college when it all went down on that fateful summer day. The professor of physics at his college was shot in the face for being a monarchist sympathizer. Stuff was burning everywhere. Celebrations and gunfire echoed across the whole campus and across the city. His parents stole a tank from the local armory with the help of a defecting soldier. The next day, he participated in an informal trial against the landlord of the block he lived in. He was convicted and Vincent never found out what happened to him.

Most of the time in between 2005 and now has just been normal, he realized. He finished his bachelor's degree in Political Philosophy. He relocated to Pristav and participated in the local union actions. For four hours a day, he had to do little physical work, and he was set for life. He maintained robots that could make way more goods than a person could ever manually. The Anarchist Dream was successful, he thought. One day the workers of the world would come to understand the utopia that he now lived in. But the Gang of Five enlightened him. Jakub Cuda's "Criticisms of the Barkadian State" made him aware of the problems they were facing. The state was authoritarian and dominating, and most had no idea.

He quickly joined the 2 August Movement. His charismatic nature and fervor quickly boosted him up the ranks. When the group gave him the nomination in March, he thought there was no way they stood a chance against the growing threat of the state. He knew they would battle the new revolutionaries whenever possible. The Red Pines in the Tungist Party also tried to stop them, and resorted to mass attacks at meetings. But that never stopped him, or his fellow revolutionaries. The massive campaign worked, and now here he was, waiting to be inaugurated as the last True Pine ever. 9 days until they could truly begin dismantling the state, once and for all. The people of this glorious nation did not fail them, he thought.

He gets up and walks towards a globe sitting on a table. He looks at the declining nation of Kolonia, sitting just to the east of where he was, waiting to strike. As peaceful and friendly as he wants to be, the antagonistic Kolonians would take any chance at pouncing. A strong people's army and alliance with the USCC would continue to be necessary. He glances down at Icaria. A region of war, he scoffed. And Barkadian soldiers continuing to be there isn't helping. But the Kolonians and the inferior Federal Republic are preparing for something, according to the news and reports. He could not withdraw their forces before there was a conclusion.

His eyes finally settled on Faulksnia. A peninsula with a decadent monarchy, bound to be an eternal enemy of Barkadia. But it changed. Just like here, people broke their chains and overthrew them. It was beautiful to hear about over the news. Foksberg slowly transitioning to a true anarchist paradise, unlike Barkadia. But now with him and The Council in charge, that can change. We can do it together, we can unite as one! But we shall see, he thought. Let's not get too optimistic now.

He finally snaps out of it. He sighs to himself, happy on where he finally is. He picks up a script, and begins to recite the first lines.

"I, Vincent Čiernik...."

[Almedian Malabar]

https://i.imgur.com/numBADx.png

19:00 Dec. 26th, 2020: Achizio Air Force Base, Tuffield

Indra peers out the windows of the barracks to watch her fellow countrymen training in the tanks below. Occasionally laughing when the younger recruits loudly complain about the lack of instructions written in their language, as Serrian advisors walk over to assist them.

"Admiring the language barrier Zeus?" came from the other side of the room.

"Just starting to wish I listened to my mom about picking up a second language Shachi"

"They say anything to you yet? About being deployed out here."

"I haven't even told them yet."

"Come on Indra, they're your family. Even if they are a royal pain in the ass."

"That pun still isn't funny." She said as Shachi laughed to herself. "Have you heard from 3 and 4?"

"Ra is still in the men's barracks, but he said Khonsu went out to scope out the nearest bar."

"Well his ass better be back in time to at the mess, we need to talk tactics."

"Tactics?"

"This isn't going to be just routine air patrols. The USCC outnumbers us, outguns us, and likely has more flight hours per pilot than us."

"Indra, you're talking like we are actually going to war. Things are bound to cool down and we'll transfer back to La Roy."

She gets up and walks over to lay down on her bed, "War or not, we need to train like we are going to war. If we don't and conflict breaks out, I don't feel like taking my chances bailing out near the communists' border..."

[Baydor]

Post Not relevant any more.

[Baydor]

Thomas Regan announces a new trade and defence deal with Kolonia


The deal aims to bust Baydor's defence and industry at the same time. Under this deal, Baydor has purchased several fighter launched missiles, including air to air and anti ship missiles. Baydor will also allow for Kolonian air forces to use there air base; the deal will also have Kolonia purchasing Baydorian steel and investing in infrastructure.

[Barkadia]

BARKADIAN PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

On January 1st, 2021, the new Barkadian government was inaugurated, and for the first time, a different party other than the Left Coalition holds a majority. Vincent Čiernik was inaugurated as True Pine without incident, and has quickly gone to work, ensuring that the defensive posture of Barkadia remains strong before focusing on domestic reform. The Barkadian-Faulksnian Defense Bill made its way to The Council today, after the vote was delayed due to the transfer of power. With a vote of 352-298, the bill passed, which allowed Barkadia to begin construction and expansion of military bases to the south of Foskberg, the capital of Faulksnia. The expansions will allow Barkadian aircraft and naval vessels to guard the entryway into the Meridan Sea, and help Faulksnians defend against their own threats as well, strengthening the alliance. The total cost will be around 80 million dollars, and be completed by the end of April. The True Pine stresses that this is merely a defensive action, and is not in response to Kolonian aircraft being stationed in Baydor, a nation friendly to them in the eastern Meridan. It is hoped that the strategic location of the bases can help keep the Meridan safe from future aggression, and continue to spur the already warm relations between our nation and Faulksnia. This is all for now.

[Tungusta]

THE TUNGUSKAN DAILY

---

At roughly 9AM today, 155mm and 105mm artillery pieces started firing upon key military targets in Suroig. The shells used are GPS-guided as to reduce civilian casualties. This comes after recent news of a surge of USCC soldiers in Suroig. At this current moment, it is not known how much of a threat Suroig will prove. Our Military Experts reckon it will start a long period of skirmishes along the Tunguska-Suroig border but won't reach a critical point where forces have to be diverted from the Tunguska-USCC border. The No-fly zone for USCC aircraft have been increased to counter threats such as Air-launched Cruise Missiles which have hit railways and and fuel depots.

Message from the government:
From next week onwards, to get food supplies you will either need a ration card or a garden/farm to make your own. Every week, you will get a new ration card with a list of foods and ingredients you can get from your local air raid shelter. It is recommended you get tinned foods as they will last much longer than any other alternative. This is in anticipation of food shortages that may occur during the course of the war. Families bigger than four will be able to claim a special ration card.

[Dolphiland]

[RETCONNED]

[Nostrapais]

From the streets of Monchastel, a great clamor arose. It was they day the all awaited since the new year, one more of cheering and rejoicing ! Firecrackers, confetti and colored smoke filled the air. Crowds slowly converged towards the harbor. There, the fishing fleet was awaiting its first departure. The masts and rigging of the trawlers were covered in golden paper and shimmering canvas fringes. On the piers, several of the city's bakers held stands where they gave away sweets in the shape of fishes and boats to the kids running around disguised in small mariner outfits. On an stage, a few meters away, a Party member, alongside several fishermen, ladies, child and men dressed in black, was holding a discourse, wishing the seamen good fortune in their sailing and catches but also honoring the unfortunate ones whom the capricious southern sea claimed. Today was the day they would sortie for the first time of the year, upon it took place a ceremony in honor of those mariners feeding a good part of the country. It had been enacted (among other measures) just a few years ago, in 2016, after the loss of three trawlers into a storm and the ensuing protest of the fishermen syndicates for better conditions and recognition. The blaring horns of the fleet punctuated the discourse of the orator reminding the conditions of the establishment of these festivities and scarred of a fly of gulls. Several persons walked forward on the piers themselves and waved their hands and handkerchiefs at the boats and ships raising steam. Those were the families and friends of the departing ones and they stood there as slowly, the port emptied of its noisy and floaty inhabitants.

[Ostreich1]

TAU KICARI UNION PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

On the 10th of January the Union government has worked out a deal with the Barkadian government to provide aid to the poorer villages in the mountains. The aid consists of generators, portable radios, LED lights, indoor plumbing and improved septic tanks. The Kicari Air Ambulance Service has been gifted several AN-2s from Kydzhariston and purchased several Bell 204s from civilian owners to expand its air ambulance fleet allowing them to better assist remote areas and give them access to better healthcare. The Barkadian government has also sent S-300 missiles and associated training personnel to replace the aging AMLIS systems currently in service. Seramax International has announced that it is expanding its silicon mining operations at the Tişek mine, which is currently the second largest silicon mine in the country and is projected to be the largest by 2023. Recently a video of a Kicari border guard using two submachine guns on horseback while competing in a shooting match against Kydzhar border guards has gone viral.

Screenshot from video.

[Nostrapais]

As seen in the international edition of an aeronautic specialized newspaper

[...] But the draft for the next Quinquennial Plan does not end there. Indeed, with the army logistical burden lightened by the arrival of the newly gifted Barkadian weaponry, part of the defense budget should be redirected to the aerospace sector of the public industry. The Government announced its desire to have, for the first time in Nostrapaisian History, a small constellation of civilian communication satellites launched in orbit. "This is welcome funding, said Mr. Ferrat, second in command in the telecommunication cabinet of the Ministry of Culture, Nostrapaisian communication capabilities has long suffered of its dependency on foreign space assets, we hope this project will bring us back our sovereignty in this domain." Of course, the country is far from being able to produce such technologically advanced materials, let alone launching them, but several plans are on the table. "It cannot be denied the aerospace sector suffered from a chronic under-funding since its birth." Says Mr. Ferrat and indeed, the Nostrapaisian space program never went further than sounding rockets and technical proofing of missiles for the Defense sector. Several options to fulfill this commitment are envisioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affair who should hold a meeting with the Government in the coming weeks to precise the plan. "From international cooperation to simply buying already made components, all the options are on the table, says Mrs. Morrel, spokeperson of said Ministry, but we will of course favor those that would provide work for our people and sharpen our national tools in that domain." However good this may sound, the draft has yet to be accepted by the People's Chamber. Will Nostrapais reach for the stars too ? Only time will tell.

[Barkadia]

BARKADIAN PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

[Tungusta]

On a hill slightly west of the southern most city of Tunguska, Glasowic, and crews of Gun Group Foxtrot (Callsign Golf 62) prepare for a long day ahead of them. It is the 11th of January 2021 at 3:00 AM and Battery Captain Bazinov, yawns at the radio, awaiting his daily situational report. Outside it is frosty and snow is scattered around. A transmission comes in.

---

"Golf 62, this is Battery Headquarters. Radio Check, over."

"Battery Headquarters, this is Golf 62. Loud 'n Clear, Over"

"Good to hear ya. So Command is in a bit of a shambles right now. Satellite imagery suggests that the enemy is mobilising at an alarming rate and are preparing for an invasion. There has already been small skirmishes and the 1st has taken counter-battery fire. As you know very well, this isn't part of the plan. We've got four MBTs and two IFVs coming your way to fortify your position but they won't arrive till late noon. This is just a precautionary measure as I am sure you understand. Nothing to panic about. I doubt any military could muster an invasion force that fast. As for your orders, same as yesterday. Just stay on alert and keep a watchful eye. We'll alert you to any changes of plan or situation. Any questions?"

"No sir"

"Affirmative. Battery Headquarters, out."

---

It's 5 in the morning and Bazinov is half-awake, sipping coffee at his desk.

"Golf 62, this is Battery Headquarters. We got a situation update. The first Suroig forces have started leaking through the checkpoints but the border guards in this area seem to be holding for now. We need you to stay calm. There's APCs and foot infantry coming towards the border. Even reports of light tanks. It is believed that the enemy has CAS on standby so the Air Force has got three P.297s and one P.282 to loiter above this sector as well as an AO-5 Ghost to send you live updates. You'll see the video feed appear on your monitor when it gets into position. Finally, we are sending over one QRF squad via GPH-5 Helicopter to fortify your position. At this current moment, the amount of them coming are not yet known. The most important thing is that you hold out till the tanks arrive and that you stand your ground. We'll send you new targets shortly..."

---

Half an hour has passed. Bazinov is walking around outside, stretching his legs. The sound of the guns drown out the sound of nature every so often as the sun rises on the horizon. His 2nd in Command bursts out the Command vehicle.
"Sir"

"Yes 2iC?"

"Command has got a fire mission for us. Get on the radio. Battery Headquarters will fill you in."

"Affirmative"

Bazinov walks inside the Command Vehicle and grabs the radio.

"Golf 62, this is Battery Headquarters. We got a fire mission for you. As you know, the border guards are having a pretty tough time at the gates to Glasowic. They have so far been able to hold off enemy troops and vehicles with recoilless rifles, machineguns and mortars. But they need more firepower. And they need it fast. We'll connect you to their attached forward observer."

"Affirmative."

The line goes silent for a few seconds but then a voice accompanied by loud bangs and the rattle of machinegun fire emerges.

"Golf 62, this is Mike 21. Adjust fire, over."

"Mike 21, this is Golf 62. Adjust fire, out."

"Grid PW 164 283, over."

"Grid PW 164 283, out."

"I got a large grouping of Suroig soldiers, roughly 30 men, taking cover inside a barn. Danger close, over."

"Estimated 30 Suroig soldiers inside a barn. Danger close. Out"

"A, C, D, F, HE in effect, 10 rounds, over."

"A, C, D, F, HE in effect, 10 rounds, out."

The guns adjust and the 2iC orders the guns to fire

"Shot, over"

"Shot, out"

The shells glide through the air

"Splash, over"

"Splash, out"

Soon, the soft thud of the shells could be heard

"Direction 2100, add 50, left 100, over"

"Direction 2100, add 50, left 100, out"

Once again, the guns adjust fire and this time they land on target

"Fire for effect, over"

"Fire for effect, out"

The barrage of 105mm and 155mm cannons lasts for a minute. It completely wrecks the barn.

"Golf 62, this is Mike 21. End of mission: Estimated 30 casualties, over. Seriously dude thanks for the support."

"Mike 21, this is Golf 62. End of mission: Estimated 30 casualties, out."

More fire missions come in till nearly 6AM. The Suroig advance was hard-hitting but could not break through. A temporary unofficial ceasefire broke out where both sides spent the time getting casualties away from the battlefields. The border guards got more reinforcements and the Suroig soldiers got theirs too with the occasional machinegun burst either side. Not long after though, fighting resumed and more and more fire missions came in. Everyone knew the guards wouldn't be able to hold back the invasion. It was just a matter of when.

Soon, the lines inevitably broke. Light tanks and APCs eventually were able to break through the barrier by 9AM. All the non-stop firing of the guns had taking a huge toll on morale of the gun crews. They knew it would only be a matter of hours before the Suroig forces would get ready to assault Glasowic itself. By now, several airstrikes on the invading forces had been largely ineffective due to heavy MANPADs resistance on the way in forcing many planes to turn back, as well as overall poor visibility. Not only this, but similar breaches were happening all over the border, meaning air assets had to be spread thin. At the moment, shelling seemed to be the best solution. So they kept on firing. And firing. Occasionally Suroig APCs and light tanks would go up in flames, but more reinforcements were coming anyway. The clock kept ticking. 10AM, 11AM, 12AM, 1PM. One of the Forward Observers reports movement. A flurry of men getting into their vehicles. 2PM. A few enemy recon vehicles move into the forest. More airstrikes and fire missions. Everyone is anxious. Then, it happens.

Light tanks leading the charge into the city. APCs and foot soldiers follow behind. Panzerfaust IIIs, CAS and artillery light up the tanks. They pull back. Stalemate on both sides. Bazinov and the rest of Foxtrot battery were relieved by Delta Battery for twenty minutes to let the men rest and eat. Not long after, back to the guns. It was 4PM and fire missions stopped coming in. Bazinov knew nothing about any change in schedule. What was going on? Perhaps there were just no more targets to hit for the day. He got out the command vehicle and walked around. He got his binoculars out and- What was that? A face could be seen around two miles away in some bushes at the bottom of the relatively flat hill. A squad of suroig soldiers scouting their position but too far away for accurate small arms fire to be put on. Were they about to be attacked? He conferred with high command. High command believed an attack on their Gun Group Foxtrot was imminent through a mix of reasoning and recon photos. Bazinov gets out the vehicle and calls all his men to attention.

"We've done a lot of hard work today but I fear we have much more to worry about. I have just spotted an enemy squad that seems to be scouting our position and high command believes that an attack is coming in a few hours. I need everyone to prepare for an attack. Load HE and you QRF squads get behind the sandbags. If you yourself can clearly identify the target as enemy then you may fire and others may follow suit."

He gets into the vehicle

"Battery Headquarters, this is Golf 62. Enemy forces. About two miles out. I suspect an attack on my position coming any moment now. Will any support be available soon?"

A short pause

"Uhh, the only support that will be available is other artillery batteries and the tanks that will arrive at 10PM today. Hold out till then."

It's 6PM. Silence. Only the occasional far away machinegun burst. A rustle in the bushes. A head raises from some long grass. A voice calls out.

"TARGET FRONT 100M"

A flurry of machinegun fire on both sides. The 105mm crews are ordered to get off the guns and grab their rifles. From all over the long grass Suroig soldiers rise and start running towards the artillery. Intense fighting breaks out. The few at Gun Group Foxtrot are heavily outnumbered. There is no turning back now. Tracer fire pierces the dark sky as the 155mm artillery pieces aim down their barrels. Each time a shell hits the ground, a large thud is felt by everyone. Suroig soldiers just outside the blast radius get swept of their feet. An impenetrable wall of bullets and shells are formed. But they just kept coming. Suroig soldiers start trying to slip through the flanks and are met with accurate rifle fire. Then, the first APCs start coming in. The 155mm cannons easily break through them even with HE but only three 155mm cannons cannot hold off everything. Soon, the cannons become overwhelmed with targets. Machinegun barrels start melting. Guns start jamming. It almost seems hopeless. But so far no Suroig soldiers have gotten within 50m. Every 5 minutes more Suroig reinforcements pour in. At 6:30, three Suroig tanks came thrusting in from the left side but were hit by the guns. Only one survived long enough to be able to pull back. Then, the first Tunguskan casualties. A rocket smashed into a sandbag wall, killing two and injuring six. However, for the six injured, there was no time to rest. They got to another section of the sandbag wall and re-deployed their machineguns. The smell of burnt gunpowder filled the air all around. More tanks came in. More infantry. More chaos everywhere.

"This is G62 to all other batteries on station, requesting immediate suppression 300m south of our battery."

30 seconds later, a streak of airburst white phosphorus, parachute flares and HE rounds came crashing overhead. A few Suroig soldiers ran down the hill in fear only to be hit by 7.62mm rounds from a GPMG. Another RPG comes in. This time, aimed at one of the artillery pieces. The RPG narrowly misses, instead hitting the ground far behind it. This shakes the Command vehicle which Bazinov is inside. A question lingers inside Bazinov's mind. Would it be better for his troops if he got out there and joined the fight? Or would it be better if he stayed inside co-ordinating artillery instead. He thought for a few moments. He knew what he was going to do.

---

He picks up his R92A1 and places a 40mm into his UGL. Slowly, he opened the door and ran towards the guns. Another RPG comes in. It hits another section of the wall. Four more of his men will never see the light of day again. He releases the safety catch on his UGL. He estimates a target to be around 200m. Plop. Two hostiles are downed. Reload. Plop. Four more downed. Shouts come in from the voice he recognises to be his 2iC. He sees him lying on the ground, moaning and spitting out blood. Shot in the neck. Bazinov can't look at him anymore. He turns back towards the battlefield. He fires 4-5 round bursts at the incoming, occasionally ducking to reload. The Suroig soldiers start coming within 50m. Everyone in the battery knows its over. Bazinov fixes a bayonet. One of his troop realises what's happining. He knows that Bazinov cannot be stopped.

---

The ammo crates are onto the last of their stocks. Bazinov softly sings a traditional Tunguskan song to himself before clambering over the sandbag wall. Tears are running down his cheek. Immediately he is targeted by a machinegun, taking a bullet to the leg. This does not stop him. He thrusts his bayonet deep into his first victim. Then the next. Then the next. Then the next. Then the next. He is covered in his own blood as well as the blood of his enemies. He has been shot over six times by rifle calibre bullets. His death is already certain. But this doesn't stop him. By the end of it, Bazinov would kill 23 Suroig soldiers in the charge. An autopsy found 17 rifle and two pistol calibre bullets lodged in him. The battery would hold out for one more hour. When the four MBTs and two IFVs finally arrived and cleared out the area, what they found was astonishing. Over 2800 dead bodies on the open field. But on the hill, lay only the bodies of 130 men.

[Nuvastia]

https://i.imgur.com/q4hvOMS.png <--- high resolution version here

[Faulksnia]

Fokser Free Territories, Eastern Faulksnia

Several dozen people milled about along the train station's main platform. Petrol had always been expensive in Faulksnia, but the few oil companies that traded here had pulled out of the post-capitalist regions, and very few people wanted to take on the responsibility of transporting fuel all day anymore. Most people, especially the recluses, appreciated the quieter streets and the clean air. However, it made it difficult to travel cross-country, the imperial government had neglected all but a few glory projects in the transit sector and the New Government was struggling to pull the resources together to get reliable vehicles in service.

Last night's snow had become a black sludge along the tracks in the afternoon sun. A sharp metallic clattering rose from the rails. The waiting passengers began to line up as the train's horn rang out. There was a shout as a black form lurched off the platform. "Stay back!" A heavy coat fell away from the figure on the tracks, revealing a middle-aged man in a wrinkled business suit shakily brandishing a pistol. Screams intermingled with the bells of the rail crossing.

Two teenagers hopped down onto the tracks as well, prompting more cursing from the crowd. One distracted the man just long enough for the other to snatch the gun away and all three were hauled back to safety just before the locomotive screeched past. A handful of community guards pushed their way through the crowd and ushered the involved parties inside the station building.

After yet another (although shorter) delay, the train was allowed to exchange its passengers and pull out of the station again. An hour or so later, a van from the local medical clinic stopped in front of the station and the man was escorted inside. Some people bicycling past glanced over but the small crowd that had come to gawk had long since dispersed by the time the van left. Only a trenchcoat, torn beyond recognition and plastered to the gutter along the tracks, remained at the station to suggest the tale.

[Qjerizon]

Kaqañ, Kičar Arašak, Qjerizon

Kajra Rekjokar walked onto the nearly empty train platform, striding forward. Despite how few passengers were on this early in the morning, she still always made a show of riding alone in public transport whenever possible; her party Old Piqit had made it a requirement in an attempt to boost support for their new public transport expansion plans. Looking like a regular working Kičar going about her business in Kaqañ was also great for her image, so Kajra adopted the practice wholeheartedly. Several of the passengers stared for a moment, but remained quiet.

Kajra sat down on the isle side of an empty row. A man sat in the row across from her, and when she made a passing glance his face lit up

"Xakan Rekjokar?"

She smiled, "Oh, no, I am only Xan!"

"For a few hours! Its an honor to meet you, my Xan! I truly did not expect to see you on the train this morning! Are you on your way to be sworn in in Pulut now?"

"Indeed I am, and I always take the train where I can. Its the best way to travel for all people. Are you from Kaqañ?"

"I am, in fact I'm a local independent journalist, I understand if its not the time but do you think you could answer a few questions?"

Kajra was exhausted, but interviewing some small time journalist on her train ride to be rotated in to the seat of Xakan would win her a lot of points with her party, so she could hardly refuse.

"Of course!"

The man across the aisle pulled out a smart phone and leaned across. He said something into it as he held it out, but Kajra couldn't bear bothering to listen.

"Thank you so much for speaking with me my Xan, now, first, how does it feel that Kičar Arašak will soon get its turn to be represented nationally after so many years, and by you yourself?"

"It is of course a most glorious day for our republic, and I am honored to take my turn for this position not just for Kičar Arašak but for the great tradition it represents within Qjerizon, and may it continue for two millenia more! However, in the end, the greater honor is to serve the people of Kičar Arašak, caring for the worker at the local level. I have been overjoyed to serve that role up until now, and after my term as Xakan has passed I'll remain just as overjoyed."

"Now, we are of course riding on Qjerizon's high speed rail network as we speak, and relatedly Old Piqit has recently suggesting putting forward several public transport bills in the Kuruqaj. Will you be using your voice as Xakan to further this move?"

She was already sick of the interview. It was going to be a dull six months.

[Almedian Malabar]

[Barkadia]

BARKADIAN PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

The Barkadian government has spent year after year dedicating itself to the mobilization and defense of the country. The military budget became bloated. Hundreds of thousands of young Barkadians, ready to show the world who they were, got sent to training camps and conflicts across the world. Many never returned. The border with Kolonia is one of the most militarized borders on Kerbin, and remains completely closed to travel and trade. Tens of thousands have died fighting in bloody wars against the Kolonians, whether or not they were justified. People have grown tired of endless war and mobilization, and just want peace. We do not doubt that those in Kolonia and the rest of Sverna yearn for the same thing. All of us just want to pick up the pieces and move on into a great and bright future, where we are united towards common goals and fight for one another instead of against. The True Pine invites the leaders of every country within Sverna to come to Kora, to finally discuss the terms of a long lasting peace on the continent. We hope that the rest of the world sees this as just a gesture of good will. We are a new government and we carry with us no ulterior motive. Together, us Svernans can prove that the pen is indeed mightier than the sword. We can all bloom into a new future where nothing is ever solved on the field of battle. This is all for now.

[Nostrapais]

On a thorn newspaper aimlessly floating in the wind...

... neral strike at the Masset arsenal following the adoption of Barkadian weaponry finally ends. The two countries came to an agreement that "though not optimal, satisfies both end" according to the Workers' delegate Maria Hauclerc. Though not public yet, the therms are supposed to keep the arsenal running for at least five more years. It is speculated that spare parts production for the Barkadian weaponry was the solution discussed from the get-go between the two countries diplomatic and industrial parties. In addition, one of the main demand of the syndicates was met when the Nostrapaisian government pledged to keep the arsenal running and preserve our country's sovereignty in the domain of armament manufacturing. A law in this direction is to b ... days at the People's Chamber. This was met by joyful cheers among the protesters still assembled at gates of the production facilities and in front of the Ministry of Armies siege in the capital. "This shows ... nomists remain prudent on the fut ... ory.
Story by Almir Lebel

Important police operation nea...

A large police force was deployed at Calbourg yesterday morning, blocking off a large portion of the village for most of the day. The Delegates of the region reacted this evening to the news, giving a detailed account of an operation aimed at "taking down a radical religious group before it taking roots in the area". The police force website showed several pictures of a large amount of weaponry seized, "military grade automatic rifles and pistols as well as artisanal explosives and components to prepare more" told us an operative who wished to remain anonymous. Unreliable sources also mention the sei ... materials linked with religious practice though, the various accounts disagree on which and the government hasn't officially communic ... An undisclosed number of people have been arre ... o casualties where registered on either sides but one civilian was injured due to undisclosed reasons. More information on the matter are expected from the government in the week.
Story by Leo ...

Nostrapaisian wins nati ...

The week ends well fo ...

[Barkadia]

BARKADIAN PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

The new Barkadian government has been in close talks with the newly established libertarian socialist government of Faulksnia, working together to grow closer and to cooperate on every level. After weeks of negotiation, both governments are now walking away happy, with a deal benefiting both sides in their growth and knowledge. The Faulksnian government has agreed to license all of their patents for Barkadian use, effective immediately. The Faulksnians will also grant us access to any confidential technical files they would have, military or civilian. The Barkadian government has also agreed to grant the same privileges to the Faulksnians. With this massive technology release for both sides, it is hoped that both sides can help advance their technological understandings massively, and create a new starting point to work and advance together. Also included in the deal was a promise by both sides to start more in-depth collaborations between research institutions in each nation. The combined efforts will rapidly advance our nations into a new age, surpassing all around us. Our efforts will make us stronger and smarter than ever. This is just the first step for a new dawn for socialism within Sverna. This is all for now.

[The United Kolonia Republic]

Williams Square, Downtown Kortica, Kolonia

February 27th, 08:00

Today was the third day of protests for many standing in the crowd in Williams Square. On Feb. 24th, 2020, the Kolonian government suspended elections for another 3 months. That had turned into a full year. For many, it seemed that the Centrist Party of Kolonia, once the most popular party in the country by double digits, had used the Second Barko-Kolonian War to further its objectives, and prevent growing support in other parliamentary groups, such as the Veterans for a Better Kolonia and the New Centrists from gaining further opposition power.

There were at least 500 people standing outside the parliament in the early morning. It didn't take long for that to change. At first, a trickle of new people started to join the crowd and their shouts of "No more waiting!" and "Out with the CPK!" Then, it became a flood. From across the city, veterans and average citizens had answered the protestor's call. By noon, there were almost 10,000 people in the protest. The people spilled across all of the blocks surrounding the square, traffic coming to a halt. Many more began to join with new shouts. "Peace in Sverna!" echoed through the buildings.

When word of this protest started to spread quickly through social media, others began leaving work and their homes to get to the streets. Outside of federal buildings and in public areas in every city in the country, crowds began to gather. There had been a powder barrel sitting across Kolonia. The match had finally been dropped in.

The protests exploded. Tens of thousands began to march into the streets. They demanded elections, the end of the state of the emergency, and peace with Barkadia. Too many had died in another pointless war that had achieved nothing. In the West of the nation, many didn't shout for peace, but rather, for vengeance. Their cries, however, were drowned out.

In Kortica, the protest was at 100,000 people by 4 o'clock. Their objective soon changed. The parliament building, located 5 kilometers away, became the target. The protestors began a march through the city. It seemed to stretch on forever.

By 18:00, there were a million people protesting in Kortica. Twice that through the rest of the country. 1/4 of the city's population were standing in the crowd. People from all points of the political spectrum, all ways of life, all religions, they demanded an end to what had become normal in this country.

At 20:00, after hours of silence, the Kolonian Parliament spoke out.

This message is approved for public view by the Parliament of the United Republic of Kolonia

The government of Kolonia is committing today to special elections by April 1st, 2021. Every parliamentary seat will be up for elections. Alongside this, a new President of Kolonia, a seat vacant since 2018, will be elected in a following election on June 1st, 2021. More information will follow tomorrow. Alongside this, it has been agreed upon with Barkadian diplomats to attend the upcoming Kora Summit with the goal of bringing long lasting stability and peace to the continent of Sverna.

Return to your homes.

[Baydor]

Far right party, the nation workers party, have won the election with 52.3% of the vote.

The NWP (national workers party) ran their campaign on message of re unification with west Baydor as well as a strong centralised government ruled by one party. The new prime minster Jacob Hutman spoke to his supporters just as the results came in.

"I thank you my follower, great soldiers of the people today we have won a historic victory over the force of communism and decadence. Because of you our people will no longer surfer from external power, because of you Baydor can unite the lorbic people, because of you Baydor can take its rightful place in the world. Soon the hour approaches when we must eradicate the treasonous elements with in this great nation and in there blood a new nation shall be rejuvenated."

[Nacija Slavia]

Slavian Official Acknowledgement of Kora Conference & Future Relations

The Slavian government has agreed to meet with Kolonia and Barkadia at the Kora conference to discuss a peaceful resolution to political and territorial disputes between the two countries concerning Stolska and Bily Lesk. We hope that this will begin to improve relations between the three nations and allow resume safe, open travel and economic activity across Sverna regardless of political differences. The conference will begin in March and terms will begin to be finalized by early April. We hope all nations in Sverna can use diplomacy to work towards peaceful resolution of conflict and the recognition of fair democracy between neighbors.

[The United Kolonia Republic]