NationStates Jolt Archive

Senator Daley came to the podium smiling from ear to ear, he raised his arms and shook his fists. He motioned for the crowd to stop and bagan his acceptence speech for the Liberal Party Presidential nomination.

"My fellow Fultonians, I come her today to proudly accept your nomination to run for President of the Republic. I realize that these past few years have been trying times for the families of this great nation. In these times of adversity though we can't look down or be discouraged, we must glance into the future and see the glory and hope that is to come. We must do more than promise peace and prosperity, we must actively look for it!

I understand the pain and suffering that many of the elderly in our society have ahd to face. At the old age of 60 I have my share of pains and ailments. I also understadn that rising prices on medication and medical treatment hae crippled your ability to take care of yourselves. I say to you that we can do better! We can lower teh cost of healthcare and provide you with the medications needed for survival.

I fully comprehend the attack being waged by the radicals who control the ruling coalition upon a woman's fundemental right to choose. Having two daughters I fully understand the burden that falls upon the women of Fultonia. The agony and torment of personal decisions based upon the common values of faith and freedom should not be politicized for personal gain or benefit. We must safeguard this most precious of freedoms today, tomorrow, and forever!

To all of those who have lost thier jobs to the multinational corporations that rule the political discourse, I say to you that this is not the end. I will fight daily and tirelessly to bring those jobs back to Fultonia and make sure thsoe businesses will never distress you again. It is high time someone made them accountable for thier supralegal actions and shady deals. I promise that in a Daley administration polluters will prosecuted and big business cut down to size!

In conclusion I say to you tonight that things are lookin better, things are lookin better everyday. Goodnight and great tiems Fultonia."

As he raised his left thumb up the baloons dropped and confetti fell. Three men were now running for President of the Republic.

Inside of the 1st Cathedral of our God, the largest non-denominational churches in Fultonia, the Traditionalist candidate Representative Warren was walking toward the pulpit.

He raised his right hand and waved to the audience, he placed his left hand on the podium and then his right came with it. "I am proud to accept you nomination for the President of the Republic. I come to you today to outline the agenda and policy that a traditionalist government would implement for Fultonia.

I learned at a young age that sometimes a person just can't do everythign on their own. A child walking home from school on a hot summer day may not be aware of the predator stalking his streets. The night shift at the local foodmart may not be prepared to fend off violent criminals. As a young police officer patrolling the streets of Calco I learned that the people can't be expected to do everything, sometimes they need a little back up. Knowing the growing number of narcotics and gangs that have spread through out our major cities it is time we take a stand, and tell those thugs that we will not back down from a fight. We will take our streets back from these criminals! In a Warren administration we will place 200,000 more police on the streets and double the budget of the National Prison system, For the safety of our people will be my number one duty.

As a detective on the mean streets I came across scenes of depredation and despair that were unfathomable. To see the child living in conditions of pain and suffering were near unbarable. This should not exist in a nation whose own motto declares "One man is no man." We must do more to reach out and help out neighbors, to build a Fultonia based upon mutual support and tenderness. In a Warren administration this society will be brought up and thier children will no longer suffer but rejoice in new found hope and help!

As a soldier in the Army I saw up close and in person the horrors that our brave men and women must face as our protectors. I know the feeling of having to leave a wife and child behind to defend our freedoms and liberties. As such I propose a new initiative in Fultonia, one that reaches out and helps the defenders of our land. It should be our goal that every soldier be given the education they deserve. I propose that every soldier be given the money needed to secure an education once their time of service has expired, for is it really too much to sacrifice for thsoe who might pay the ultimate price for us? I think not!

As a minister of faith I beleive that we all have purpose and a mission, that if we are only brave enough to take will lead us to glory. This is also true of our great nation, we ahve a path laid out before us and if we only are brave and strong enough to finish, it will lead us into a glory and prosperity not seen since the founding of our republic.

Thank you and God Bless the Republic."

The fourth man had thrown his aht into the ring.

The Libertarian Party convention had been going for three days. The platfrom was just as strong as ever; legalization of marijauna, abolishment of gun control, privatization of social security, and an overall decrease in intelligence spending. What was lacking from this convention however, was a Presidential candidate. The most popular man in the party was one year too young to run for office. Acknowledging that running a candidate would draw votes away from thier coalition partner the Conservatives, a deal was struck two weeks prior. The Libertarians nominate President Jefferson for president and in exchange the conservatives run no candidates in libertarian owned House Districts.

As the roll call votes came to the floor Samuels was worried, out of the 5,000 delegates he needed 2,600 hundred according to party rules to clinch a nomination and he didn't have that many committed to Jefferson. The roll call commenced and Jefferson was put over the mark as delegate 4,325 cast a vote for Jefferson. Now the Conservatives only needed to hold thier official nomination. Samuels hoped jefferson's speech was good.

Governor Morrison strode up the long platform giving his double v for victory on both hands. He met the platform and began his speech.

"My comrades I meet you today as we stand on the cusp of history. We can continue the policies of our past or stay on the path laid out by the conservatives and thier companions. We can continue the traditions of the Republic or thsoe who fight against them.

In our society we can not have the elderly and the aged dying in our arms, we must have government funded medications and nationalised health centers. How can we allow those who took care of us in our time of need be left out to dry now? we shoudln't nor can we if as a society we wish respect.

How can we ask for support and alliances in our day if as a free and democratic peoples we occupy enemy territories and oppress whole populations. We must allow for free and democratic elections in Aubania and Coastal City, and then complete freedom for their people. No half governments or untold lies.

This is the time for the workers of Fultonia to unite to strike a blow against the evil corporations that are destroying our society. They are the ones building the weapons that destroy the innocent children and plague our families. We must move now to return power to the republic and away from the corporations adn their allies.

Lets move now for the people!"

Unbeknownst to the candidates and delegates, an assissin lurked on the catwalk above the main stage. As the candidate finished speaking, the sniper leveled his Durganov rifle, and took the man's head in his crosshairs.

:sniper: :sniper:

The roar of the crowd muffled the sound of the rifle slugs shooting through the air. The first shot pierced the neck of Governer Morrison, severing his spinal cord and jugular vein, sending a spray of blood thirty feet out into the crowd.

By the time anyone realized what was happening, the second slug entered the skull of Senator Daely, removing a large portion of his head, and drenching the senator's wife from head to toe in her late husband's grey matter.

:mp5: :mp5:

Security personel sprang into action, peppering the catwalk in gun fire. The sniper was killed by a shot in the kidneys, and well to the stage amidst a hail of bullets and broken glass.

By the end of the convention, two politicians lay dead, along with their killer. Later investigations would connect the sniper to interests within the Disputed Territoried of Phaxiland. The fate of the Libertarian party is uncertain.

(When you post stuff in public forums, people take it upon themselves to meddle in your business!)

Actually shit brick, you cant attack or kill anyones character with out their permision first. Maybe I should just glass over your entire nation...

OOC: um humm..... well every post is about a seperate convention happening in diferent places. Second, I learned the easy way that you don't take it upon yourself to descirbe deaths or injuries. you simply state your action and in good faith allow the other party to control the fate of thier characters. last, if you really want to eb involved in the action lets talk about what your genereal interests are with my nation. then I'd be mroe than ahppy to let you get involved. oh BTW don't fuck with Imi, he could kill my nation a million times over. so he coudl probly wipe you off the face of the earth.

President Jefferson had just received a unanimous nomination from the conservative party. The first such nomination ever in the history of the party. He strode toward the platform walking along the dark blue carpet ending at the red wood podium boasting the seal of the republic. The crowd erupted into cheers of “four more years” screaming for several minutes until Jefferson was able to quiet the crowd down.
Jefferson smiled and stated emphatically, “That’s just what I plan to do.” The crowd again erupted into the chant of “four more years”. Jefferson motions for the crowd to settle down as he stands tall and radiates confidence.
“It seems fitting that my opponents have all been talking about the ills of our society and the problems permeating our culture. I do not deny that the republic has problems or that situations exist that denies some of our citizens’ proper dignity and respect. However, instead of selling the people of this grand republic a bag of false good I give you results and accomplishable tasks. I give you not promises but a vision that will allow all Fultonian’s to live lives of success, significance, and service.”
The crowd erupts into cheers and applause as flags are waved and bullhorns blown. Security is tight as an attempted assassination attempt was foiled only two weeks before at the Progressive National Convention. Jefferson motions for the crowd to settle down as eh smiles and gives them a wave.
“I understand the sacrifice of the Fultonian people in these times of crisis and the hardships they faced in the aftermath of attack by the Hodgeanian aggressors. I shed tears of grief for the lost friends and loved ones I knew, and like you I fell on my knees and prayed to that the souls of those lost would be granted redemption and those still living would be comforted by a most gracious God. I have been accused of meddling in foreign affairs and not truly understanding the cost of my military decisions. I say to you that when I lost my beloved wife in those attacks I finally understood that negotiating with tyrants and dictators did not work, and the people of Fultonia must bear any burden, pay any price, and strike every blow to secure freedom and liberty not only for themselves but for their children and grandchildren!”
Cheers erupt and for five minutes the roar is almost deafening as Jefferson tries to quite the ecstatic audience. He gives two V’s for victory and rests his hands on the podium till the crowd subsides.
“There are those who every day lay their life on the line to defend my family and yours from fear, persecution, and harm. They are the men and women of the law enforcement community. They form the first layer that this government depends on to protect the citizens o f this republic from damage, yet often they are the most overlooked and under compensated in our society. I propose we usher in a new age, one in which the brave men and women of law enforcement can walk down the street not only proud of the good job they do but of the attention our society places upon them.” A small applause ensues that ends with the chant of “four more years.” “I propose a twofold agenda to help these brave men and women go about their daily lives. First, I propose that the size of our police forces double within the next four years with matching federal funds to be given to provinces. Second, I propose that every man and woman serving in our federal police forces be given greater powers to enforce the law and protect our citizens from harm.”
The crowd erupted into cheers of “four more years” screaming for several minutes until Jefferson was able to quiet the crowd down.
“Now, there are those who I will be facing in the general election who wish to take away some of the freedoms and liberties that we Fultonians hold so close to our heart. They would curtail your right to hunt on your property and threaten the safety of your family. I promise as your President to fight for your right of self defense and the obligation that you have to protect your families from harm.”
Cheers erupt for a couple minutes before quiet ensues.
“I have seen the shaky hand of death pass over me and my family, just as you the citizens of this republic have as well. It is for this reason that tonight I am proposing a new healthcare initiative, one that replaces our outdated socialized systems of medicine and replaces them with a more private and innovative way of doing things. The system we have in place tonight was created to deal with the problems of yesteryear and not the problems of today. As such the three most important steps to be taken to reform eh medical system are as follows; medications not decided solely by government bureaucrats but decided upon by the people who can decide on their own whether the prescription is worth the cost, next lower insurance premiums and caps placed upon the frivolous lawsuits that plague our society, lastly making sure that hospitals are not placed and planned by those in parliament but by private institutions following the incentives government places. We live in a new age where the ideas of the past are not cut out to solve the problems of today.”
The crowd roars their approval as Jefferson as Jefferson takes a drink from the small glass sitting inside the podium.
“Today a plan was tentatively set that allows the Aubanians to rejoin their Hodgeanian brothers and a referendum is being put in place that would allow those in Coastal City to decide their own futures. We can usher in a new age of liberalization and liberty if we as Fultonians only stand up and declare that on the world stage our voices will be heard!”
“I am Andrew Jefferson and I humbly accept your nomination for the President of this Grand Nation. Thank you all, good night and God Bless the Republic.”

In Fultonia culture Presidential debates rarely happen where all candidates are involved. More often there are half a dozen debates featuring two or more candidates and by the end of the election all the candidates have participated in several of them. At the same time Jefferson was giving his acceptence speech a little town hall style debate was taking place between Governor Morrison and Representative Warren.

"Well dear sir, I would love to accept the fact that God has blessed our nation, but it was nto the death of christ that founded the Republic. It was teh death of brave men and women sheding their blood that has sustained this nation."
Morrison answered the question as to what role God should play in Fultonian politics.

In the basement below several security personel recieved killing blows from the channel 13 "news team". themselves having been killed several hours earlier on the western highways. THe news team made its way up the stairs and into the security zone. a beautiful young lady wearing a tight short skirt and a white blouse with tall black heels pulled out her press pass, "I'm so dreadfulyl sorry we're late, you wouldn't mind letting us inside seeing as how we have the proper documents?" She passed a coy smile and placed her hand on the young police officers shoulder.

"Well, mam it's agaisnt protocol but I guess your crew can go inside."

The power of a lovely face has brought down empires, Joan thought as her "crew" and her walked inside.

The debate was going nicely with about 2,000 in attendence. Her "Mic" man laid down his equipment and placed the aerosol can by the door. At the same time her camera man flipped the tracking device on his modified rocket launcher to operational. She quietly slipped out and explained to the security guard that she had forgotten soem equipment and exited the building walking as if nothing in the world mattered.

At precisely the same time that First Speaker Fortier was being shot an explosion was seen by thsoe few watching the public broadcasting of Fultonia. An a lethal virus was being shot into the air by the only exit out of the building.


----------------------------------------------------------------

after exiting the stage Secret Service immediately herded Jefferson into teh car and began explaining the situation to him.

"And this is Father Domingo Chavez, Society of Jesus, he's our Religious Advisor in matters of internal and forigen," the man talking paused as an aide tapped his shoulder and whispered in his ear. His look went from bad to worse. "Ms. First Speaker, it appears there as been another assasination attempt. This time in Fultonia. We're watching news outlets to see what we can find out, and our ICI team in the area is getting what it can."

Anna Frateli, the newly appointed First Speaker of Imitora, nodded solomenly. Just a year ago she graduated from one of Imitora's best University, the University of Freeston in Northampton, with a degree in Political Science with a study field of Foriegn Affairs and Relations. She was an intern to a Second Speaker, and looking forward to going to Imitora Tech for a Doctorate in Political Studies. Now, she was the leader of a powerful, large, and rather violent nation.

"Well, ummm, I guess we should send some condolences or something? Maybe I should go there. Yeah, I'll go to Fultonia and meet this Jefferson guy. See if hes ok. Ya know, the whole diplomatic thing."

Berstow looked at her, and all but fainted. "Listen, we need to solve a problem here. There are riots in eight cities, and slowing moving into Northampton. We need to stop them."

"Well, what do they want?"

"Freedom, peace, more privacy rights, the ability to live without the INSA looking over their shoulders, generally to be less infringed on."

"Weel, give it to them."

"Ma'am," this was Fleet Commander Ryan Cerston, "Thats impossible. You give them this, then they'll start asking for more, thinking your a pushover. No, we need to end this now. You dont want a Communist revolution on your hands, do you? Think about it, we'll have Bolsheviks running in the streets, terrorists killing at will, hell, we'll probably be invaded. What we need to do now is end the problem they way we always have. A nice big gun, and lotsa force. Quick and simple. I can order the 338th Drop Force into action, land in the riots and quiet them down fast. Look at it this way. Fortier failed to act fast, and now hes in the hospital. If you do the same, you could too. We need to stomp this down now."

Frateli thought for a moment. Cerston was right, the last riot and rebellion had ocured more than 100 years ago, and was quickly quieted, and interaly there had been peace since. Sure, the people could use freedoms, that would help. But, this was teh type of situation were Cerston was most likely right. She looked around the room at her small cabinet of advisors, then nodded. "Do it, Fleet Commander. By the time I get back, I want everything back to normal. After that, I'll work on meeting with or allied governments on setting up new diplomatic channels. Right now, I'm going to Fultonia. Anything I should do?"

"Well, Ma'am standard procedeure is to pick a cabinet member to go with you. I'll notify the Fultonian's your comming, and the Imitora Atmospheric Air Operations Unit will ready the A360 for flight, and I'll get the 31st Air Escort Unit Ready. F-82Ds. They'll be ready to roll in about two hours," commented Minister of Foreign Relations Joe Brynes.

"Excellent. Father Chavez, would you mind escorting me to Fultonia?"

"Ma'am, it would be my pleasure."

"Great, then we leave in two hours."

President Jefferson strapped on his personal body armor and began repositioning his suit and overcoat as Director Weathers explained the situation to him.

"Sir, our intelligence shows that riots have broken out across Imitora. Both your progressive and traditionalist opponent have been killed with a precision guided missile at close range. A chemical toxin which so far has infected roughly 3,000 citizens has been identified and innoculation efforts are under way. Finally VP Bottom has been shepherded to a secure location."

The blue phone located in the center of the limosine begins ringing.

Jefferson fixes his tie and answers it, "This is President Jefferson speaking."

"uh-huh. Send my personal condolences and set up a secret meeting in Coastal City with whoever is in charge of Imitora."

Jefferson looks a bit raddled, "I want a full marine platoon station within my general vacinity at all times and double the secret service contingent around both Bottom and I. Secondly I want my daughter taken to the bunker and someone on her at all times. The terrorists have killed the First Speaker of Imitora, if they got to him they certainly will come after us."

Director Weathers leans forward with a sober look, "We already know who did this. I have an operative within one of their cells right now. They are radicals who espouse Independance for Aubania and the destruction of the Imitoran culture. Protestants sir."

"I want to keep this quiet, don't tell the Imitorans anything. Let that be my job."

The A360 touched down gently, and the large aircraft slowly rolled to a stop. The plane taxied to its parking spot in the Hodganian Airport, and the occupants descended down a ladder. On the ground, several men dressed in the always fashionable tactical black with a full sniper loadout watched the trees, looking for targets. Several men in suits, ISS agents, flanked Frateli as she walked down to the limmo waiting to take her. Over head, several MH-6Is, armed with rockets and miniguns, searched for encraoching targets.

Also on the ground was a squad of Imitoran Colonial Marines. These were the real ICMC. Men and women who volunteered, and served in the colonies. They were underequiped compared to the ICMC of foriegn fame, but still well armed. All were carying a form of CAR-48 Carbine, some with undermouted grenade launchers or shot guns, some with only a pistol forgrip, except for the three carying M249 SAWs. All had mounted Aimpoint sights, flashlights, and laser dot sights.

The Colonial Marines were fiercely loyal, and fierce fighters. Many were fluent in at least three languages, due to their postings in foreign places, and many were top line picks for the 1st SOU-D or teh 22nd SOTF. The 15 alone in this squad could possibly take on two or three platoons, and come out victorious. It some cases they had taken on ICMC regulars, and won.

They boarded two HMMWVs one in front and one behind the limmo, and the convoy began its voyage. The ride to the meeting place in coastal city was short, just 30 minutes, and the entire time, the convoy was overflown by the small MH-6Is. The road had quickly been blocked off so that no other traffic would be on the highway.

They arrived at the wall that seperated Imitoran Held Hodgania from the rest of Hodgania, and under teh gaurd of five Imitora M1A5 tanks, the gate was lifted, and the drove past into Coastal City, the helicopters still flying cover. They pulled up to the building where the meeting would take place, and Anna exited after the Marines had given the ISS the thumbs up. They entered, Anna flanked by both suit clad ISS agnets, and cammo clad Marines, and she waited for directions.

Sattelites were watching the scene from above as teh wall between the nations came down. Fighter jets were circling the skys above and helicopters were making random flight patterns across Coastal City. Special Services had the area under complete lockdown, only essential personel being allowed into the area. As the motorcade rolled up the ICMC would have been stationed right next to FMC. The Secret Service would have "escorted" the First Speaker and her "coterie" into the lavish office and the red wood table that had seating for 24. Security inside the building was primarily Bureau officers from Anora although the occasional Marine could be seen patrolling the hallways.

The City itself wouldn't have even realized what was happening as the Police Force of Coastal City might not know everything, but they knew almost everything. As such the citizens were used to random searches and over bearing security, in fact many liked it.

The Presidential Helicopter landed outside the building and Jefferson stepped out flanked by six Secret Service personel. He quickly made his way inside as a second helicoptor landed and another 12 man team made its way off the helicopter and headed to the offcier in charge of the marine First Speaker's escort forces.

"Sir, could you move your vehicles down that ramp and beneath the building? It's more secure and protected from chemical, nucleur, and biological weapons."

The helicopters took off and more Coastal City Police Forces moved in surrounding the compound and setting up several complete checkpoints.

Jefferson walked into the room and immediately noticed the very young lady sitting where the First Speaker should have been. Without hesitation he extended his hand to her, "Mrs. First Speaker, I am sorry about the catastrophe that has effected you and your people. I have information regarding those that were involved. How may I be of Assistance?"

"Ms.," Anna corrected him politely. The Marines, despite the seating ability, didn't sit, instead they had taken defensive positions in the room, just had the ISS agents. She sat upright in the chair, and looked around the room. She was thinking back to her foreign affairs course, where they prcticed dealing with other leaders and dignataries. No practice in the world was good enough to prepare her for this moment.

"Obviously, the simple thing is who. If you know who did this, then I'd like to know where they are, and who they are. And now, if possible. We have our own suspects, but you obviously have more, so lets hear it."

Chavez had to chuckle to himself. He sat next to Anna, and offered a small smile. Even if she was a timid girl, she had all the makings of a First Speaker, more specifically, demand first, negotiate later. He mused slightly at what would happen if Jefferson didn't tell, and then decided that what was more intresting was how he'd react to being all but ordered to talk by someone else. However, due to his time as a former Colonial Marine, he was more intrested in them.

Anna, however, was focused on Jefferson. He was an older man, but cute in a sense that he seemed rather idealistic. When reading his breifing on the way over, she noticed that the INSA operatives classified him as a semi Idealist with some Realist views. She was suprised to find, upon looking around the room, that there were no INSA agents. Of course, for all she knew, this was just an INSA training scenario, but that most likely wasn't the case. She looked back at Jefferson, and waited for his response.

Jefferson smiled and sat down, "What woudl you like to drink Ms. Anna? Daniels, I'd like some tea. Iced tea with a little lemon and no sugar."

The Secret Service within the room went tense, they had studied all about the Imitorans and understood that they weren't necessarily as patient as their President. Call buttons were pushed and the Security Forces were placed on high alert. Just in case this First Speaker was like the last one, an elitist prick.

Ms. Anna's drink is placed before her as Daniel's lays several folders to the side of Jefferson. He picks them up and begins reading over them. "What woudl you like to knwo exactly?"

This is were Frateli and Fortier differed. If Fortier had been in the room, he would have nodded to his Marines, who would have secured the room, killed Jefferson's Security, and then his ISS agents would have proceded to beat the shit out of him. And they would have done so until they felt satisfied. Then, if Jefferson decided he wanted to talk, they would have let him. If not, they would have killed him, assumed the terrorist group opperated out of Fultonia, and layed waste to the nation, as well as Coastal City, just for good measure. But this wasn't Fortier, this was Frateli.

Anna looked at her drink, and pushed it to the side. "Tell me who the group is, and where they are opperating from." The tone in her words casued her ISS agents to relax, the slight edge in an otherwise pretty voice let them know she could take care of herself. With confidence, she leaned back in the chair.

Jefferson smiled and and began to explain in a professor like fashion the facts of the situation, "Simply put this organization is not being funded by a state or nation per se. This is a terrorist organization with manpower estimated to be about 30,000 strong. Roughly speaking the majority of the terrorists, we figure about 70%, are stationed within your borders. that being said, my minister of intelligence has told me that they could be as few in number as 15,000 with only 25% within your territories. They are in a standard cell structure with no one person knowing all of the members. The leader of a cell operating with only a nominal chain of command. Their primary funding seems to be coming from three sources; Aubanian supporters that have little or no knowledge where the money they donate is going. They're all yuppies. Secondly, we have scattered reports that Roanians are involved, thirdly it seems that some other shadowy group within your territory is helping them operate. We will be performing raids and special operations against the terrorists within by nightfall. Anything else I can do Ms. Anna?"

Frateli let the words come in, and filtered out the BS from the truth. If she had learned one thing in school, its that Roanians are full of shit, and even they wouldnt have the balls to make a move like this. They were to busy being full of themselves to even look at another nation for attack. If they did, they would quickly be trounced like a group of rabits.

Second, the chances of any of this group operating in her borders was bad info. With 100% of the population being monitered, the chances that anyone was operating anything without the INSA knowing were minimal. Somewhere in the .00001% range. So that was a no go.

The only thing he said that made sense was the operation being based out of Aubania. It was this that made her think. For a moment, she was silent, then, rather upbruptly, with absolutely no attempt to excuse herself, pulled a cell phone out of her pocket. She dialed a number, and waited for a response. "Yes, this is Frateli. Ok, we think Aubania. When can forces in the area move? Ok. And what are we moving with. Excelent, thanks." She hung up, and placed the phone back in her pocket.

"Mr. Jefferson, if you have this much information, then obviously you have had it for a while. If you haven't then someone in your administration has had it. I would suggest that you go through your ranks and figure out who exactly who in your cabinet is putting your nation and others in danger. I would also recomend that you move any troops away from teh Aubanian border, and tell them to not do anything stupid. We wouldn't want any unnesacery deaths on our hands, would we?"

Jefferson understood both the words adn the tone of the young lady sitting across from him, "Well, my lady I am already working to rectify the problem of not getting this information before it was too late. And, yes my troops will be moving northward into Coastal City as we wouldn't want any Imitorans to die in friendly fire accidents. Daniels order the tactical movements and I want all forces out fo Aubania within two hours. it has been a pleasure talking to you Ms. Anna."

He stood and shook her hand delicately.

Anna stood, and returned the handsahke with a firm grasp, as she left the room, she turned and looked at Jefferson. "Form now on, you'd be best to refere to me as Ms. Frateli. Not Ms. Anna." With that, she, and her Marine escort, were gone.

The Marines understood from the phone call that their day was far from over, and that they needed to quickly reload when they got back to base. They were moving out soon. The drive back to the airport was quiet, and Anna boarded the plane with her entourage. Once on board, she opened a bottle of red wine, and took as much as she could in one swig. Father Chavez looked over, and gave her an inquiring glance. "I've never been so scared in my life. Do me a favor, and never make me meet with another world leader again." He responded with a laugh.

State funerals were always a bother to Director Weathers, he had more important things to do than listen to speeches given about carcasses.

Governor Morrison and Representative Warren were laid to rest in thier respective manners and President Jefferson spoke at both funerals of the value fo unity and common ideals that have kept the Republic together. Early poll results show that Jefferson's approval ratings hover at 80% but are expected to drop as the election continues.

President Jefferson released two documents from the Office of the President today. One in regards to the Republic of Weshield, and the other in regards to terrorism. The document was 55 pages in length and outlined what his proposed plan to fight the threat was, many pundits said it was a political move to cut his now only opponent out before the debate had even begun.

A balding old man lay in his bath tub as a cheap hooker rode him like a horse. The team was in position, at precisely 9:30 PM shots were fired from the rooftop of the building across the street hitting the man squarely in the chest. A piercing scream shot through the urban streets of Nev. "Alpha target secured, proceed to secondary targets." A joint operation between the armed forces and the Bureau six federal agents busted the door down and ran into the front room.

Agent Williams took the lead and as the door burst open he immediately dove toward the couch and laid sprawled behind it. The other agents took out three of the four bodyguards but not before Agent Andrews took a shotgun blast to the chest. The terrorist ran through a hail of bullets out the door. Williams sprang up and bolted out the door running like a bat out of hell with his colt .45 revolver in front of him. the guy was running full steam and down three flights of stairs. "this is Agent Williams in hot pursuit of terrorist suspect bravo! Need immediate police assistance!" Almost if on cure three security cars pulled out of a street several blocks ahead. One jumped the curb and ran over suspect bravo his head smashing into the front windshield brain splattering all over teh concrete side walk. One thing about Nev, the security forces didn't care about litigation. They wroked for the Casinos.

Agent Williams bent over holding his knees and wisping hard, "Damn, I hate chases."

----------------------------------------------------------------

Anoran Public Broadcasting

News Flash
We are sorry for interrupting the ten o'clock news but this has just come through the wires. As of tonight over 100 terrorists have been aprehended with an unknown number killed in government raids.

back to the local news

"Romeo Six Six, Romeo Six Five, this is Juliet Two Four, over watch is clear, cover is good to go." The line came from a sniper, holding an AI .338 Lapua rifle. His scope was set on a small suburban, one story house. In front of the house, in the buses running along the front six men clad in the ever fashionable tactical black, with appropriate gear, made their way towards teh door.

The lead slid a small fiber optic cammera under the door, and checked the room. He held a thumbs up, then made a slashing motion in the air. He stepped back, walked up the short stair case, and his men followed. They lined up in a perfect line, and the second in lined pulled something off the leads back. The lead pumped the shotgun mounted under his CAR-48, and fired one blast, the door swinging open.

The second man in line tossed something into the room, and less than a second later, there was a loud bang, and a bright light shown through the windows. The team moved in quickly, and the sound of gun fire was heard. Two shots from a CAR-48, then a shotgun, then nothing. "This is Romeo Six Six, clearing the house.

There was more gunfire, and Romeo Six Six, in the lead, moved quickly towards the back of the house. Someone stepped out of a room, and caught a burst of 5.56 right in the chest from his CAR-48. Another man stepped out, lifiting a shotgun, but his head was just in the right spot, and it evaporated from the impact force of the .338 held by the sniper. "Confirmed," the sniper said, working the bolt.

The team moved quikly, and after two minutes the house was confirmed clear. "This is Romeo Six Six, house is clear." They looked at the five dead bodies, four from the assault tema, one from teh sniper, and nodded. "We need an ambulance, we have multiple fatalites, code three," the lead of the team said. Seven more confirmed terrorist suporters had been taken.
____

President Jefferson,

I would like to thank you for your assistance in dealing with the current matters of state regarding the terrorist organizations opperating with the intent to harm our two countries. As of now, 115 confirmed supporters and cell memebers have been killed or aprehended by Imitoran forces. Further, I would like you to know that the support of the Imitoran people lies with your party, and we hope for the best in your election. SHould you need any assistance at all, feel free to contact us. Best Wishes

First Speaker Anna Frateli
http://www.timharmonphoto.com/img/samaire.jpg

Prime Minister Filio sat in his office surrounded by heavily armed security personell. Two days ago he would not have appreciated the prescence of deadly weapons in his office but today he needed them. Rioters were looting all over Aubania, people were killing each other at an alarming rate and all semblance of law and order had disapeared. The Fultonians were gone, and so was there protection. As he traveled down the hall escorted by six very intimidating men he redid his tie and rounded the corner into the press room.

"My fellow Aubanians, we have entered a dark time not seen since the days of the Hodgeanian Tyranny. Thsoe we once looked to as occupiers we must now understand were our liberators and protectors. We are now once again under the rule of another nation, and I vow to you today I will do all that is necesarry to protect you from harm. My first act as Supreme Speaker of Aubania is to legalize the use of firearms by government officials and the establishment of reform centers across the nation. And to those of you who support willingly or unknowingly the terrorists who attacked our great allies listen to me, I will track you down adn kill you. To the rest of Aubania goodnight."

THe Senator left the room and went into the safety bunker under the parliament building.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Within the Capital of Aubania itself the picture was grim, gangs of young men and women were forming overwhelming the police who were armed with little mroe than clubs and in some cases mace. Neighborhoods were being patrolled by these gangs with rapes and murders becoming increasingly common. In a few areas citizens had banded together and were ordering arms from secret suppliers within Coastal City. What was not known is that these suppliers were actually Special Service Police Officers fomenting rebellion. If the situation did not stabilize Coastal City would have to provide "humanitarian assistance".

The news media of Fultonia had landed in force once reports of the Aubanian violence hit the front page of Fultonian Newspapers.

"This is Jack Ryan reporting from the capital of the now soveriegn Aubania where violence has becoem widespread as forces from the self declared government of Supreme Speaker Filio battle for control of the streets away from entrenched rebels commanded by an unknown woman, only identifying herself as "Scarlet". The situation has been made even more tense as the Aubanian government has issued rifles and armor to newly formed SWAT teams made up of mercenaries from neighboring Coastal City and regular police officers from the exurbs of the capital."

Suddenly six young men wearing slashed up jeans and t-shirts (2 sporting ak-47's and 4 carrying 9 millimeters) bust through a door to the left of the screen firing haphazardly as the window to the bakery is shot out from short bursts coming from several modified m-16 assault rifles. Several of the young men hit the ground screaming in pain as blood issues from wounds in thier lower torsos. The others jump through a window for a flower shop across the street.

"This is a dangerous situation but we are moving into position to try to see who just ousted the rebels from the building." The camera is wobbling all over the place and Jack is sweating all over due to the body armor and helmet he is wearing. God, the things I do for a story he thought as he ran behind a large garbage unit whcih had been moved out of the ally way and was blocking the intersection. Jack looks behind the camera, "John see if you can lift the camera and peek inside the building?" the camera begins to tilt and life upward as the audience is shown who is inside the building. The screams of the young men begin to die down and only the wimper of one can be heard on camera "ppppleeeease, hhelp meeee."

The camera spotlights the new inhabitants of the building, two men wearing completely black uniforms sporting the symbol of the new Supreme Speaker, a flag with a lone white star on a field of black. The camera slowly came down as sirens could be heard coming closer.

"I see two Aubanian squad cars racing down the street toward our position right now let's see if we can't get a look."

Three Police Officers sporting kevlar vests and black helmets spring from each of the squad cars. Two take positions behind the passenger sides of the cars carrying modified m-16's the other four charge out into the street two firing into one building two into the other three carrying mp-5 assault rifles the fourth carrying an automatic nine shell shotgun. They front two lay down cover fire as teh other two drag the wimpering rebel toward their squad car. Another rebel is seen on the screen charging out of the building being torn to shreds by bullets. The police officers put the other rebel into their car and quickly get back into thier vehicles. The soldiers in black fatigues begin to take shots at the vehicles as they speed down the streets away from the carnage.

"What you just saw on the screen their is representativ of the violence all over the capital. The government seems to have restored most of its control on the outlying regions except those in south where the nuclear reactor imploded and in the capital where the Supreme Speaker is waging a block by block urban war to take over. More to report later back to you Su......

----------------------------------------------------------------

President Jefferson sat in his office not knowing what to do. One the one hand he had an entire fleet in the waters off the coast of Iansisle where they had been for nearly a month. He was rounding up terrorists inside of his own nation, Special Operations units were still inside of Iansisle, and an entire army corp and marine brigade stationed in Coastal City. Not to mention an entire air force command operating out of there. The polls were so split on the issue of what to do and who to side with. The television broadcast was horrible, but I guess a decision has to be made and I'm the only one to make it.

As the dust settled at Fire Control Station Alpha, a body count was made. 8 dead, 42 wounded. In technicallity, it was a 100% casualty rate. Everyone had been shot or hurt in some way shape or form. Three medivac MH-60Is were exfiltrating the worst of them all. Rachelle was one of those. She would live, she just needed some blood, and luckily, she was AB, tha majority of blood in Imitora. The commander of the unit wrote down her name and number, and made sure to get her name in.
______


President Jefferson,

We hope all is well in your campaign, and that victory is close by. We would like to invite you or one of your aides to Imitora, to attend the awarding of the Medal of Valor. This medal is awarded to Imitoran Armed Service Member who Exemplifies Honor, Valor, and Selflessness in combat situations, in times of both war and peace. Spc. Rachelle Amstocker, ICMC 22nd Special Operations Task Force, 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, was serving in Imitoran held Hodgania when her station came under fire. After killing five Aubanian rebels, she was wounded, but continued to fight. She then pulled a fallen commerade out of harms way, and took his weapon, using it to continue the fight. She then destroyed two Aubanian APCs. Her actions went above and beyond the call of duty. We hope you, or someone in your administration, can attend the ceremony. With respect,

Erin Rendelli
Minister of Foriegn Affairs

Reading the message from Imitora carefully President Jefferson began to worry a bit. He picked up the white phone on his desk and dialed the Governor of Coastal City.

Jefferson waited as the phone rang until he heard the click, "Governor Strong Speaking."

"This is President Jefferson Speaking, I have a favor to ask of you Strong."

"Well, sir. I would be more than glad to do you a favor. What is it?"

"Strong, I need you to send Coastal City forces into Aubania or at the very least provide stabilizing forces in the region."

"Mr. President, who do you want me to side with? The Supreme Speaker or the Official Aubanian Government? Either way I'm going to have to send in overwhelming force to route out the enemy."

"Simply put the decision is up to you. I just need the nation quiet before the general elections. You do me this favor and the next position you head will be Minister of Defence. Understood"

"yes Sir, if I so happen restore order and democracy to my beleagured nation to the south I may be in the running for secretary of defence. Oh, and sir don't worry about the elections I'm going to grant every soldier in Coastal City citezenship so that the referendum will be more favorable to Fultonia."

"Thanks Governor, keep up the good work."
The phone was laid abck on the reciever as President Jefferson swiveled in his chair.

He dialed another number and waited a bit, "Yes Bottom, I would like you to attend thsi ceremony Imitora is holding seeing as I didn't make a very good impression last tiem on the First Speaker."

A brief pause

"oh great, you'll do it then. I'll have the office send you the exact time and location. I appreciate it. Talk to you soon." the phone was again laid on the reciever.

The polls looked good so far. Party Id was 40%, in the House it seemed that we might pick up between 30-and 100 seats. Most importantly I'm holding steady at 62%, not bad only a month and a half out from election day.

Karl was sitting across from the President with charts and graphs all over the place, "basically Mr. President my polls indicate Conservative candidates are leading in 75 House Districts with another 40 in the toss up category which were not held by conservatives in the last election. Of the 115 seats held by conservatives in the last election 68 have conservatives leading with 30 in the toss up category and 17 leaning away from the party. Right now it looks as if we could come away with 42.6% of the vote. The Libertarians are looking at between a 20 to 90 seat drop. My charts indicate that they will hold 12.2% of the House. The Traditionalists seem to be in line for roughly the same percentage as last time with only maybe a few gains, I'd say 6% to 8%. If the election continues on this path the coalition will hold 60% of the House with the conservatives taking the Speakership away from the libertarians, which hasn't happened since you held the office."

A huge grin spread across President Jefferson's face, "Well, I kinda just walked into that one. What about the Senate, what's going on with Party ID?"

Karl pulled several more charts out from his briefcase, "Mr. President, it looks solid but not nearly as good as the House Races. We seem to be holding steady at 38% after a short spike and a similar short drop. The traditionalists have drummed up a rather large support base after the death of Representative Warren at the hands of the terrorists. Polls indicate that thier Party ID is at 11% while the libertarians are holding rather tenuously at 14% with major movements toward the Liberals both from thiers and the progressive camps. I'd have to say that between the three expect between a 3 and 12 point drop."

"karl, you do one heck of a job. Hurry up and set the debate between Senator Daley and I."

"Will do sir, oh by the way I've got some new campaign strategies to go over with you."

"Just set teh meeting up with Lucy and we'll have lunch. have a great day Karl."

"Thank you, and God Bless Sir."

The helicopter moved slowly over the plains of Aubania. The black painted MH-60I was flying low, and its sound dampaning rotors keeping the chopper quiet. On board will 12 very well armed, very violent men. It was the 3rd Recon Operation unit from the ICMCs Force Recon. A satalite overflight had found a light operations center towards the center of Aubania, and it had been determined that is was terrorist operation center.

The helicopter landed about five miles from the center, and all 12 men disembarked, forming a protective circle in the grass. When the bird left, they qucikly ran an equipment check. Satisified, they activated their NVGs, and began a low speed 'march' towards the compound, using standard fire cover techniques.

The village in eastern Aubania was small, no more than, say, 200 persons. The village was, for the most part, peacefull, but several citizens had weapons of some sort, and knew how to use them. And when the ICMC Force Recon unit appeared, walking upright, CAR-88s at the ready, they ran to get thier weapons.

The front man of the ICMC unit pulled up his CAR, and squeezed off a burt, the supressed rifle sending out 6.8mm death at high velocities. The man caught all the rounds in his face, his head exploding in a red mist. Another man took 5 of the rounds in the chest, dropping him. A third started to run, but his path took him right in front of a Recon Marine. The single round fired hit him in the throat, and he acted as if he had been closelined. Using advanced CQB tactics that many nations hadn't even seen, it took all of ten minutes for the 50 men that were armed in the village to be gunned down.

A woman screamed, and started running, but one of the Recon Marines pulled out his .45, and fired into her back, droping her. Those in the village who resisted were shot, and those who didn't were rounded up in the center of the village. One of the Marines had removed his CQB helmet, and pulled down his balclava. He eyed one of the black females in the group, and licked his lips. "I bet I thats some nice ass," he commented

"Man," said another in a distressed tone, "you dont want none of that subhuman African sh*t. Bunch of bitches, all of them. We oughta kill them. All of them." Force Recon Marines of the ICMC often displayed Facist and Racist tendancies, and this was one of those times. His commerad nodded.

"F*ck them. They aint Imitora, they dont f*cking deserve life." He motioned to the group to strip, and the entire group striped down. Of the twelve Recon operatives, nine began to set building on fire, and tossed cloths into the flames. Then, the leader of the group nodded to the gunner, and he nodded back. He turned, leveled is UMAC made version of the M60E3 CQB, and opened fire, spraying them down with 7.62mm JHP rounds. They then lit the bodies on fire, and waited for the pick up to arrive.

Twenty minutes later, two MH-6Is arrived, and picked up the Force Recon unit. The devistation would later cause one of the pilots to vomit. The image of the burning village and bodies, some that had been mutilated, was left for any supporters to see.

Scarlet sat inside of an abandoned office building surrounded by armed guards. She sat in a meditative state collecting her thoughts.

All I wanted was a free Aubania. A government where teh right to bear arms was guaranteed. A place where my children could grow up without fearing for their safety because of an unarmed police force. A land of oppurtunity where small businesses could prosper and the government didn't require 25% ownership of every company. An area where 90% of a persons pay check was thiers first not the governments. Instead chaos has ensued. An entire village was reported wiped out by forces loyal to the Supreme Speaker. The only survivors a boy and girl who were playiong in the forest. Tears began to well up in her eyes, children shouldn't eb forced to witness such carnage. Even my forces are beginning to splinter and refuse orders, what can be done? She opened her eyes and un fodled her legs stepping off the desk.

She spoke softly but firmly, "Martinez, I want you to wire a message to the Chief of Police and the government, I want to talk truce. Peace talks. Set it up."

Martinez left the room in a hurry toward an unsecure line. At least that's what Fultonian intelligence called it.

----------------------------------------------------------------

The Supreme Speaker sat in a posh office in what used to be the Aubanian Senate. It was now base of operations for the First Army Division of the Aubanian Republic. They had gained control of 30% of the capital and were holding steady. The forces were getting the job doen but had hit a brick wall, with the police forces armed with volunteers from Coastal City the Executive Office was too well defended. The only good news was that with the rebels running around the police couldn't exert a focused strike on our forces.

"General, I want you to gather our forces and push the rebel technicals away from the Command Center they've been attacking two blocks east of here and I want more breathing room. Oh, and I want to you to procure some heavy munitions if all possible. We need to sieze more government buildings immediately."

"will do Supreme Speaker." The man lef tthe room as the Supreme Speaker lit a cigar and looked at the ever changing map on his wall. It was looking good

Scarlet sat on the far end of an oak table as three men came into the room, elite pigs who only talked about equality. "I'm Scarlet, President of the Liberal Alliance of Independant Domain. Who are you three?"

"Police Chief Davis"
"Vice-Governor Williams"
"Director of Wage Equality Harris"

Chief Davis sat in the middle, "We are the ruling triumverate of Aubania as elections haven't been held and," a brief pause, "probly won't be held for awhile. Why did you finally agree to meet with us?"

Scarlet smiled as she slid a large document across the table, "If you agree to these terms the war will be stopped and we will ally with you to disarm the Fascists, if not we will continue our campaign of liberation."

The three didn't bother with that whole we don't negotiate with terrorists line, at this point saving Aubania was more important than anything.

Chief Davis Scanned the document getting the major points; open gun ownership, reformation of the tax code, legalization of religious practices, blanket pardons for all the rebel forces, and a constitutional convention. "Ok, allow us a few minutes alone to discuss the situation."

"Ok, 20 minutes and I'll be right back. Everyone leave the room." Everyone began filing out of the room Scarlet was the last to leave gently shutting the door.

Director Harris was the first to speak, "we can't allow these right wing zealots control our policy. Lets grant them blanket pardons and tell them no deal on everything else."

Vice-Governor Williams pounded his fist on the table, "I say we give them a constitutional convention with delegate elections once the fascists are defeated. That should be our compromise offer. You socialistic bastards need to backdown adn understand that everything about you has caused the downfall of our society. F*ck off."

Chief Haris stepped in, "Everyone chill out, if we don't compromise there won't be a free Aubania to begin with. I agree the Vice-Governor, lets give them a constitutional convention and blanket pardons."

"You two are fools to give in to these thugs but if that's the vote I guess there's not much I can do."

"There's not, so live with it." The Chief said emphatically.

the chief walked to the door opening it and motioning for the fiery red head to step back in, which she did willingly.

"have you three reached an agreement?"

Vice-Governor Williams answered with a smile, "yes we have Ms. Scarlet. We can't agree to everything but we can accept two of the terms. Blanket pardosn for all involved and a constitutional convention after the violence subsists."

Scarlet bent over the table and kissed the Vice-Governor's cheek, "Well gentlemen it seems I'm now a General in the new Aubanian Army. You all have a nice day. Martinez escort these men out."

Martinez tapped the chief on the shoulder and they exited the room and walked down to the first floor. Before the three delegates entered the squad car they came in Martinez said softly, "all units use channel 43 and 67, you guys can begin coordinating from there."

"Thank you." The Chief shook Martinez hand.

The Imitoran Sattelites would have seen gentle rolling hills with pockets of small communities the largest numbering no more than 12,000. The countryside was relatively peaceful with only the occasional Squad car stationed quietly in a "down town" is these small communities could even call them such. Nearly all the rebels had slid back to the Capital to defeat the Fascists trying to conquer thier new "Republic".

Once the sattelites focused on the capital they would see a city destroyed. The Western portions overrun with black clad soldiers carrying modified m-16's. The occasional APC motored down the street with a soldier spraying the street with rounds from a .60 caliber machine gun. Once the sattelites moved west they would see rebels driving technicals and stolen squad cars with mounted machine guns and the occasional RPG Launch toward the black clad soldiers. To the north and far east police units were keeping control and setting up relief centers. The south was controlled by rebel forces doing much of the same the police untis were doing. There was jsut a bit more sadism and malfeance in this group. There was also one lone tank dating from the WW1 era the rebels restored to full working order. Bodies lay all over the capital and buildings were chalked full of pock marks from assault weapons and small arems fire. Glass was like snow in the streets and animals attacked small children as they ran from dead perants and burning buildings.

The sattelites would also notice refugee tents manned by Fultonian troops across the border and Coastal City STAR units keeping security at thier check points.

The tanks rolled on, comming across little resistance. That that did get in their way was put down with a few shots from a 130mm ETC gun. More industrial blasted over the speakers in radios in the tanks. Every now and tehn, they breached a bern, going airborne. It was fun.

The push at lasted about two hours, in that time they had moved 80 miles into Aubania territory, and were still pushing strong. However, night was falling, and the decision to pull up was made. Just ten miles in the distance, the capital city lay in wait for teh taking. The decsion to make a seize was the outcome of several meetings. The tanks of the 5th, plus 75 more comming in with the 13th Armored Assault Brigade would suround the city, and artilery would fire rounds into teh city.

The tanks had settled into man made berns, their guns the only portion visable over the breaks in the ground. However, with their plasmatic based generator engines, they would be able to force there way over the small holes they were dug into. The guns all scanned teh night sky. 50 miles back, the 75 tanks of the 13th were doing the same.

Troops armed with CAR-48 and M249 SAWs kept on rotational watch, waiting for the sun to break. Tommorow, they would make the final push towards the capitol, and from their, new land.

Disturbing news had just came in from the front line in Coastal City, Imitora had sped its way across Aubania and was on teh outskirts of the Capital. President Jefferson sat at his desk and sent a short message to the Imitorans.

To the Office of the First Speaker,
Fultonia wishes to make a clear point. Aubania is now soveriegn in the eyes of this government and sees the conflict ongoing to be an internal issure to be dealt with as such. We undertand the role you wish to play in protecting the Hodgeanians under your protectorate and the soldiers stationed therein. However, it is the understanding of my advisors that the matter can be dealt with in an appropriate way without your interfereance. We would like you to consider not attacking the capital of an independant Aubania and to pull your troops back. This nation and I as its President would greatly appreciate such a move.

Sincerely,
President Jefferson

Scarlet and Chief of Police Davis were coordinating strikes all over the city against the Fascist Occupiers. They were now one block away from Parliament on the east and had several black boot squads pinned down in the north. There tank had been providing artillary support in the south keeping the troops from advancing past the very inexperienced and mostly inept rebels holding up in the South Street Candy Factory.

Yet disturbing news was coming in from the runners.

A young man came in handed Scarlet a note and ran back out of the forward bunker constructed of three broken down cars and numerous sand bags. Scarlet scanned the note ........

Observatiosn show Imitorans approaching from the east. Heavy artillary and tanks involved. Many troops advancing in rear.

Scarlet thought a moment, "Martinez, Find someone who doesn't smoke dope and is halfway intelligent among our ranks. Give them a white shirt, white pants, and white shoes. Find the biggest white sheet you can and tie it to a pole strapped to his back. Send the mother f*cker with a squad of police officers to be escorted past enemy fire. Tell the squad to leave him alone once he gets past the Capital and," She quickly writes out a note and puts is inside an envelope, "have Vice-Governor Williams sign this and seal it. Give it to our man tell him to give it to the Imitorans."

"Yes Mam!"
----------------------------------------------------------------

After several hours of manuevering past snipers and enemy positions the squad sets up inside an empty gas station and sends the young man out. Jimmy was a straight A student before the war but he beleived in the cause. He admired President Jefferson for his strong stances and one day hoped to be Fultonian. At this moment he was scared sh*tless and covered in sweat. Hopefully this will end well he thought, life sucks sometimes.

"Bunch of f*cking f*gots. I say we plasma the city, and let the mother f*ckers burn. All of them." This was PvtFC. Jamie Martinez, the SAW gunner of Charlie Co., Fifth Platoon, Second Squad. He hefted up his light machine gun as the sun lifted over the coast. "Then we turn it into nice hunting grounds. Good deer country."

"Man, f*ck that. I'm sure we can get some good ass in that city," said another man, Spc. Andrew Caston. He let his SSR-308 scan the distance, then let it come back down.

"Man, fuck that," this was PvtFC. John Madison, "I say we do both. Rape, pillage, plunder, and mother f*cking BURN!" he shouted, the group cheering. Amid a mass of cheers and calls, a voice boomed out.

"Thats enough Marines!" Sgt. Owen West stood up, and the men quited. He was the true leder of the platoon, even if some half wit luietenant back home said he had a platoon under him. "Listen, we gotta be ready in case some sh*t goes down. We'll probably the first group into the city if they need us to. So secure your shit, the 13th will be here soon." The men quickly went to work to get ready.

Less than fifteen miles back, the 13th was approaching quickly, and the sounds of F-82C Angels and F/A-68D Ravens patrolled the skies.
___

President Jefferson

While I understand your fear, I assure you that this will only result in good things. My advisors have assured me that this is the right thing to do, and I take their word for it. However, I have noted your concern, and will pass it along to my advisors for their information. Thank you for your advice,

First Speaker Anna Frateli

The tanks slowed to a roll, then a stop as they approached. One of the gunners had seen it, a boy dressed in all white. Two APCs moved forward out of the mass armor push, and a squad exited from one. The 30mm autocannon of the other was focused on him. The squad moved forward slowly, keeping their CAR-46s sighted on him. One man held up a fist, and they all stopped, still at the ready. He let his sling cathc the rifle around his chest, and he removed a UMAC made Kimber .45 TLE/RL.

He kept the barrel pointed down, and moved forward. "Get on your knees," he said forcefully, still moving. The boy did so, and he pushed him down, swliding the quickcuffs over his hands, and locking them in place.

He pulled the envalope of the boy's chest, and stared at it briefly. "Sir," he said into a boom mic, "we got a letter. Wanna look at it?" The other Marines moved forward, and carried him into one of the other APCs.

The letter stated......

To the Nation of Imitora and its Military,
The Nation of Aubania has run into trouble as of late; terrorists infiltrated the rebel alliance, fascists are attempting to depose the rightful government, and the liberal elites have begun to lose power. This has created a delicate situation and we wish to apologize for the loss of life experienced on your part. However, we feel that it is in our best interest to work out an arrangement with you on the matters currently before us. We do not wish conflict with your military, nor do we wish conflict with your government. Therfore we propse an arrangement by which you help dispose of the "Supreme Speaker" and his band of mercenaries in exchange for a treaty between our two soveriegn and grand nations.

Sincerely,
Governor Williams
Supreme General Scarlet

LtCol. David MacLemara looked at the letter carefully. Only ten miles from Ao, the push had pulled up, and a mobile command structure was quickly built up. At present there was 100 of the M1A5 Abrams, all ready to rip the city to shreds. APCs and HMMWVs carried troops, all was quiet.

He looked back at his map. "10 miles," he siad to no one inparticular. The tent was silent, then he spoke again, this time with authority. "Johnson, get me in contact with this Scarlet. Find out what her treaty terms are. Once that's done, get me in contact with this Supreme Speaker clown. Find out what he'll give us to help him out." The private nodded, and quickly went to work setting up a communications link up.

MacLemara turned, and stuck his head outside the tent. "Sgt. West, Sgt. Carson, get youreMarines ready to go into Ao. West, I need your guys to set up a decent laying up point for the armor, and Carson, you need to get us a decent secure landing area. We're gonna set up a point defense base. Don't go till I tell you to."

The two seargents saluted, and a silent cheer went up among the two platoons going in.

Scarlet had recieved a message on her instant message from the Imitoran commander she accepted an read what he said......

----------------------------------------------------------------
The Supreme Speaker answered his phone, "what do you want?"

"This is LtCol. MacLemara of the Imitora Colonial Marine Unit sationed in Hodgania. As your inteligence may note, we are approaxamately 10 miles from Ao, with tanks, APCs, HMMWVs, and Air Support. We plan on reaching Ao in the next hour or so, depending on our push schedule. We would like to know if you want our assistance, and if you do, what are you willing to give us?" MacLemara asked of the Supreme Speaker.
_____


LtCol. MacLemara speaking
We are 10 Miles from AO
Received your Message
Will Help
What are you offering

Scarlet thouhgt for a moment and typed out the following message.....

We are in desperate trouble, we understand that according to the treaty signed by our former protectors and your grand domain that we are legally yours to control. So there is very little we can offer other than to support your rightful claim to these majestic territories and hope that as we continue to prosper under your rule we will continue to have the freedom God has granted to all men.

----------------------------------------------------------------

The Supreme Speaker thought for a moment, "Why should I help you?"

Understandable
Will Contact Governing Bodies
Discuss Terms of Assistance

_______

"Mr. Speaker, do you want to live through this?"

The speaker seemed a little iritated, "of course I wish to live through this. I would just like to know why you owuld be getting involved in a conflict that is meant to restore order to this soveriegn state?"

----------------------------------------------------------------

Scarlet looked at the message carefully. It seems a bit unclear, not sure what to make of it. She typed the following......

Apologize, does that mean you understand what I said, you are going to talk to your governing body, and you discuss with them terms of assistance?

"Sir, I dont know, nor care, why I am here. All I know is that I am here, and I am under orders to take the city by force, if nessacery. Now then, what will you give us to help you?"
____

Yes

The Supreme Speaker gripped the phone tightly, "I'll tell you what I'll give you. I'll give you a boot straight up your arse. I am the Supreme Leader of Aubania and you are an occupying force, I don't need assistance to take control of my city. Stick to the countryside, it's all yours."

With that he slammed the phone down and left the room in a hissy fit. A young soldier was walking down the hall and the Supreme Speaker pulled his gun as the young private passed by him. "Don't srew with me!!!!" The Supreme Speaker screamed as he blew the young man's brains out.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Scarlet understood........

Thank You. We will patiently await the outcome.

With that Scarlet called Martinez into the room. "I need you to order our tank to proceed west and set up about four blocks away from the Fascist HQ. I want it heavily defended and to increase the amount of technicals in the area. Confiscate police cars if need be."

"Yes mam." Martinez quickly left the room.

"Very well," the LtCol. Replied calmly. He looked at a lieutenant in the room and nodded. It took less than a second for a computer to pipoint the location of the satalite phone that the Supreme Speaker had been using. It took another three minutes to run outside, set up an artillery station, and fire. A minute later, 165mm HE rounds rained down on the location of the satalite phone.
____

McLemare smiled, he enjoyed the sound of the big guns firing the 165mm HE rounds, and the whistle they made miliseconds before impact. He looked at a communications specialist. "Private, get Scarlet a message, inform her that were comming in, and she doesnt need to worry about the Supreme Speaker anymore."

OOC: Next post drop in ICMC, clear up the cross over, 'k?

It was the peak of the presidential and parliamentary election. For a bill to pass during this time was rare but Jefferson (with alot of Libertarian support) was able to get a bill passed and signed into law, the last of his term.

The gist of the bill is as follows.

All citizens rescued from Iansisle are granted full citizenship and rights within Fultonia.

Every family will be alloted a one time sum in the following amounts.

Those 65 years or older will be given 750,000 Fultonians
Those 42 to 64 will be given 550,000 Fultonians
Those 21 to 41 will be given 275,000 Fultonians
Those in the womb to 20 will be given 200,000 Fultonians

Those not 16 years of age ro older will have their monies administered by guardians chsoen form among the new citizens from Iansisle itself.

Every family is also alloted 100 acres of land in continuity to one another once being part of the Grand Capital of Anora. The City being paid an agreed upon sum to be determined by the Supreme Court of Fultonia. This land is granted Autonomy as a distinct although integral part of the Grand Republic.

They are to write and vote upon a new constitution to be approved by thier citizenry with a form of ogvernemnt to their choosing.

This new autonomous region will be granted territorial status and embassies will be established between the two powers.

Pundits all over the news were saying that the bill, along with the several foriegn policy "mistakes" going on in the world, were killing Jefferson's aprroval ratings. Down from 71% to 51% in only two weeks. His unfavorables were up from 22% to 49%. Not good numbers going into a Presidenttial election.

Rove sat across from the President. "Sir, the only good news I can give you is that our soft money contributions have tripled in the past month. We are going to begin a new ad campaign highlighitng your administrations three most important speeches. I'd like a list from you by tonight."
Jefferson smiled, "I'll give you a list tomorrow morning."
"Yes Sir." Rove stood up and left the room.
Jefferson sat in his office and picked up the telephone, "Margaret, patch me into Bottom."
A short pause ensued
"Bottom, I know you were on your way to Imitora but could you do nme a favor?"
"Thank you, I need you to deliver a major foriegn policy speech on behalf of the administration......."

The Vice-President landed headed into makeup and was escorted into the Presidential Office where Jefferson was sitting. "Sir, are the teleprompters ready?"
Jefferson smiled, "Of course, your prepared speech is being fed into the machine right now. Are you sure you're willing to do this?"
Bottom smiled, "on the pretense that if we win I get two months vacation."
Jefferson laughed, "Anything for you Bottom. I'll be watching from my bedroom with Susy."
"Tell her hi for me."
Jefferson shook Bottom's hand, "will do."
Jefferson exited the room and was followed by six secret service agents.

Bottom took his place at the desk and looked straight into the camera and the light turned on.

"Fultonians, this is Vice-President Bottom. I have come to speak to you today on a matter of grave importance. There was a time in the republic's history when we could turn away from world events and focus on the wonderful potential and exuberance of our fellow citizens. We could afford to open new hospitals and fund expensive research into deadly diseases. We could send brigades of welfare workers into the streets to tend to societies less fortunate and underpriviliged. As a people the Republic could spend vast resources on the aged and elderly and not worry about the increased tax burden. That was a golden age, a time of peace and prosperity. Yet, it was also a time of innocence, maybe even naivety.
We did not look outward toward growing dangers and threatening nations that wanted us destroyed and it came back to haunt us. Ten years ago our nation was ripped aprat by civil war, a war caused by an overabundance of government control. Six years ago a rogue nation launched a preemptive strike against our people, killing my sister and my mother. A year ago civil war began in a nation that has been a dear ally of us and our people, and we have done nothing to stop the bloodshed. Six months ago terrorist forces infiltrated our peaceful society and murdered innocent civilians and two public officials we held in high esteem.
I have only been apart of this administration for the last three and a half years, yet I know two things. One, President Jefferson has reformed almost every facit of the republic's policy both domestically and internationally. Secondly, he has not achieved the greatest of his goals because of a deadlocked parliament and resistence from a court appointed by that parliament. President Jefferson lost his wife in the attacks upon this nation and friends and loved ones in the warfare against our people since. He would not give you this message himself for he is a humble man, but a man of great courage and conviction.
I encourage you to reelect President Jefferson and vote on behalf of the Conservative Party this next election. Not for me, but for the safety and security of your sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters.
Good Night and God Bless Fultonia"
The light went off and Bottom immediately left shaking hands as he went out the door. He traveled to teh airport boarded his plane and began flying to Imitora.

As Bottom left for Imitora, a plane carrying mail landed, and a disk was delivered to every TV station in Fultonia. On this disk, labled "adds" was ten adds from teh many corporations and groups in Imitora supporting Jefferson.

OOC: I wanna see a couple of these adds maybe three. then I can post on the situation.

Comercial 1: First, we see a picture of President Bush. Then a picture of Regan, then a picture of the late First Speaker Amanda Ormsby, then a picture of your Jefferson. As these pictures crawl across the screen, the speaker names everyone, and then it cuts to a picture of an Imitoran flag and a Fultonian flag waving next to each other, and the speaker says 'All these great people deserve anotehr great legacy, vote for Jefferson.' Then the screen goes black, and the words 'this comercial sponsored by Imitora for a Strogner Future' flash on screen.

Comercial 2: We see pictures of Versallian Royal Marines and Imitoran Mercenaries fighting to restore the peace in Siera Cava. Sights of Mercs giving children candy bars, Marines helping build schools, and both aresting terrorist leaders in the area. Over these sights, a voice says 'Today, the nation of Siera Cava is better off, but not quite what it could be. These men still need help to secure this war torn land. (Insert Jefferson's apponents name here) doesn't want to help these poor people. He'd rahter have terrorists running around free. For the security of the free world, vote for Jefferson.

Comercial 3: We see First Speaker Fratelli sitting behind her desk. Her words are clear and calm. "Ladies and Gentlemen, soon, it will come time for you to pick your new leader. This will be one of the most important decision your nation will make. When you go to vote, you must realise where your vote is going. A vote for Jefferson will be the best vote you can make. The entire nation of Imitora, and nations around the world support Jefferson. The smart vote is with Jefferson, the only man in this election that can secure your nation, and promise prosperity. Ladies and Gentelmen of Fultonia, vote for your safty, vote for your children, vote for your future, vote, For Jefferson." The screen fades out to black, with a Waving Imitoran flag and Fultonia flag next to each other.

New polls were coming in over the weekend and the election was only five days away. How would Fultonians respond to the allegations.

As the deadline approached, pro Jefferson groups found themselves flodded by checks and cash from Imitorans wanting Jefferson if office. One group was even offered a full fleet of automobiles in order to help with the election. Several vehicles were being packaged up, in case the offer was accepted. Secretly, several upper echlon memebers of the Jefferson campaign were contacted by 'anonymous' members of 'agencies' in Imitora, saying that they would be more than willing to do 'special favors' for the campaign, should they be needed.

In Imitora, several memebers of the ICI covert operations unit were being prepared to go 'campaign' in Fultonia for Jefferson. The C130s were being packed with black 645ci's, and operatives were being breifed on the situation. Fake indentities were being made up for the operatives. Even if the people in Jefferson's campaign didn't want the help, the ICI wanted agents in the field, just to be safe.

Many in the Jefferson campaign resented the Imitoran involvement. However, Polls indicated that the intense voter outreach effort was working. The Imitoran ads seemed to have shifted voter favorability slightly toward Jefferson, yet the influx of money from "outside" sources seemed to be working for Jefferson and even better for the Conservative Party and thier House Candidates. Current polls showed Jefferson at 50% with his liberal oppenent at 37% with 13% undecided. The conservative party identification was at an all time 58% high. Libertarian Party ID was at 10% and Traditionalist party ID at 5%. The Liberal party was holding 24% with the progressives having only 3%. Jefferson was well pleased, only hoping that he would benefit from the groundswell.

Bottom sat in his office after spending a wonderful night with Amspoker. The election was only a couple days away and the polls looked very good. According to party ID conservatives were at 40%, the Libertarians at 15%, and the traditionalists at 10%. That would make the Republican Coalition have 65% of the senate. A four percent uptick in the total number of the coalition. If the conservatives or traditionalists could pick up a little more support they could form the old Preservationist Coalition that had so often been in the minority before the civil war and the War of Hodgeanian Aggression. The Democratic Alliance wasn't doing so well but the Liberals had made lots of headway, the polls showed them to have 29% while the progressives only had 6% of the vote.

The House wasn't looking as good as the Senate, but then again they had made a deal with the Libertarians not to run candidates in thier districts. In the House it looked as if the Conservatives were going to win 23% of the seats, the Libertarians were going to pick up 25%, and the Traditionalists 9%. An increase of 7% overall with Samuels holding on to the Speakership. The Liberals were going to get 42% and the progressives 1%. It seems that the Executive Office would see alot of changes, traditionalists moving up the ranks. Frist would be the first one to do so. Definitely an ambitious guy, someone who wanted the Presidency for himself.

The Presidential race was going to be close. It had been along time since there had only been two candidates contending and it was anyone's guess on who would win. Polls showed Jefferson at 49% and the challenger at 46% with 5% undecided.

He looked at his folder and noticed an invitation paper clipped to the bottom. Interesting it was some sort of Ball being thrown by Iansislian Royalty, some of the refugees had decided to stay and partake of the benefits given by the government. The ball was going to be later that night. He called his secretary, "Melinda, get my formal military dress prepared."

"Yes Sir, it'll be right up."

One of the many perks of being Assistant Chief Executive. He dialed Amspokers number, "Yes, nice to see I caught you. Would you give me the honor of escorting you to an official noble state function."

"Thanks for accepting. Oh, What to wear? I guess whatever you like. Although I'll be wearing my official military uniform. Sure thing escort will be there to pick you up. See you soon."

Amstoker had just set the phone down, when the 'mail' icon blinked on her computer. She hit the 'read' button, and let her eyes scan over the email. The news wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either. She sighed, and called up a friend of hers. "Hey Linda, ya know that red dress you wore to Fratelli's swearing in? You mind if I borrow it? Thanks. Yeah things are fine, I got the assignement. Yeah, 48 hours, and I'm out. Scout school," she said, refereing to the IMSOCOMs Scout Sniper program.

Bottom sat over in the corner enjoying a nice meal of fetticine alfredo over a glass of crystal water with Amspoker. Jefferson sat with Jennifer over a glass of milk and cookies watching the election returns. Jennifer was holding her teddy bear and chatting lively with her dad as they watched the election returns come in slowly.

News Flash!
This is Chris Matthews giving you the first results of the night coming in from voting zone #1. Public ID for the Senate Races are as follows: Cons 29% Libs 39% Libt 22% Progs 9% Tras 1%. Presidential Results Cons 39% Libs 61%. House Races are still being tallied but I'd have to say that these numbers don't bode well for the President.

Jennifer hugged her dad, "You'll pull it out daddy. You always do."

Jefferson looked at Bottom, "We still have two zones to go you think we'll pull it off?"

Bottom spoke with a mouthful of food, "We'll whip em."
----------------------------------------------------------------

News Flash!
Chris Matthews coming to you again to report the updated results now that voting zone #2 has closed down. Public ID Cons 39% Libs 33% Libt 20% Progs 5% Tras 3%. Presidential Results Cons 49.2% Libs 49.8%. The House races...
----------------------------------------------------------------

New Flash!
The final tallies are in. The Conservatives have gained five seats in the house, as have the Traditionalists, however the Libertarians gained 15 seats. This is a 5% point gain for the Republican Coalition in the Parliament. Party ID goes as follows Cons 40% Libs 30% Libt 19% Progs 4% Tras 7%. Finally I am glad to announce that the next four years will the Grand Republic will be led by President Jefferson who won 50.05%.

Jennifer was asleep when she was awoken by a primal scream from her father. "Yesssss!!!!!!"

"Congrats," Amstoker mentioned, taking a sip of water. A cellphone came out, and a number was dialed. "Might wanna keep them updated on the home front.
____

The black Toyota screamed out of a turn, the rear wheels howling, fighting to grab that crucial piece of traction beneath them, begging for grip. They found it as the black Supra came out of the power slide, its blow off valve hissing loudly, allowing the turbo more air. As the car powered around the corner, Fortier downshifted, the wheels barked, and he speed up again, closing in on 90 in in third, then slamming the stick into fourth, pulling towards 120, where fourth ended, and fifth took over till 170. Just behind him, a silver Mitsubishi Evolution followed, all four wheels spinning hard as the driver powered out of the turn.

Some people called this crazy, Fortier, and his close friend Andrew, considred it strees reliefe. As the two cars battled on the empty roads of Northampton (it was always quiet on Monday and Tuesday nights), a phone call was made, but ignored. Now was not the time for Robert to let his eyes off the road. They finished their little duel in a parking lot, where Fortier slid out of the driver's seat of the black Supra, and walked over to the reving EVO.

"You'r gonna need to do better than that if you wanna pull up in the Sliponian Cannonball. Ya want another run?"

Andrew nodded. "Yeah, I'm trying to find where to hit the boost in here. Lot different from a supered 'Teg. Gotta get used to it." Fortier nodded.

"We'll go again in a sec, I just need to take a call." He pulled out his cellphone, where a rather tired sounding Anna Fratelli relayed the news. "So our guy got Fultonia? Thats good. When's the inaguration? Gotcha. Yeah I'll pull some strings so that Amstoker can stay out for another month to go to the inaguration, but thats all I can promise. Ok, talk to ya later."

He hung up, and dropped the cell in the pocket of his jeans. "Ok, round two, stay on me till we get back to I45, then we'll run the loop, give ya some good boost test. Then I gotta jet, head to the First Speaker's mansion, work out some stuff." Andrew nodded and reved as Fortier strolled back over to his Supra.

Bottom was a little depressed that Amspoker wouldn't be able to make the inaugeration but he understood how important this training was for her career. He had been trained in espionage and assisination himself, a brutal six month course in the Nevian Desert and the Pennian Forests. "Well darlin, want to slip off to the Hotel room to watch the Acceptance Speech?"

Amspoker smiled.

(reply with your response either way doesn't matter. but I am lookin to marry this guy off so he can take over four years from now.)

Jennifer hugged her dad, "Well, first you get to go on a date with a saucy young lady and then you win the election. Been a good couple of nights?"

Jefferson shrugged, she wasn't supposed to know about the date. I mean the lovely young lady was only three years older than her. If she found that out he would never hear the end of it. "Yes sweetie, it feels great. Now, I've gotta go out there and give them THE SPEECH." He began to chuckle as he put on a yellow tie and his dark gray jacket.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Jefferson waved his supporters down after several moments of cheers.

"Now we embark on a brave new course, one in which we do no longer wait to have events dictated to us but we dictate events to others. An era of increased support and international relations that will benefit the people of Fultonia. Let's work together to make this Republic a better place!" Cheers were given and the speech continued for roughly five more minutes.

Rachelle nodded. "Sure," she said, following Bottom out of the room.
_____

Fortier now stood, wearing a suit instead of a Tshirt and jeans he had been wearing an hour earlier, in Fratelli's office. "So it looks like we won. We gonna leave the ICIers in Fultonia, let them keep a handle on it?"

Anna nodded. "Probably. Best way to save the money. So how are things on your end."

"Eh, I'm rich, bored, and tallented. Things are great. You know if Jefferson is gonna have a ball for this thing or what? If so, I need to get my tux pressed, and cancel a few plans."

"Dunno. What plans?"

"I can't tell you that, but there good."

Anna simply stared. "Ya know, technically, I'm your employer, and I can fire you if you dont keep me updated on your daily life."

Fortier simply shrugged. "It's not in my nature to be mysterious, but in this case I can't talk about it, and I can't tell you why."