NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This RP is closed.

The massive oak doors of the Great Hall swung open in a fury, breaking the silence of the evening. From his private chambers Damien did hear these sounds, and he rose from his throne and exited his room in an inquisitive huff. The One Who Shall Remain Unnamed materialized next to him, and it was in this moment that Dreadfire knew that something was amiss. He glanced over his shoulder at The One and asked him if he knew about the nature of this visit. The One nodded and said he did, and Damien noticed that he had his longsword drawn.

Damien wished he had The Relic's Sword in his hands just in case, but he had faith in his lead Death Dealer. The pair decended the large red obsidian staircase that lead into the main corridor, and much to Dreadfire's dismay, only two figures presented themselves aside from the Sentinel guards that lead them in.

Damien looked at the pair with confused eyes and an unsure mind. One of the figures was cloaked in a long black robe that shrouded every inch of his body, and the other was a strapping man that to Damien resembled his own prized Warchief, Zander. The younger man greeted Damien with a slight head nod, then proceeded to introduce himself.

Greetings, o' Destroyer. It is indeed and honor to stand in your presence. My name is Lucian Borgir of the Black Staff organization, and to my right is a man known as Vlad Stormclaw. As you know the Black Staff are in control of Crimmond, and it's poliical head is run by 'Delta'.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1053597.jpg
Lucian Borgir

Damien waved his hand and silenced Lucian, and in that instant the room fell silent. Save your introductions and history. I know Delta very well and I am also aware of your shady organization. Certainly you did not come here to make nice, so obvisouly there is something urgent that needs discussion, no? Borgir was abit taken back at the blunt remarks of Damien, but he shrugged it off and continued. Yes, there is something that you need to hear. Delta is going to betray you and leave you for dead.

Damien let loose a loud roar and shook his head in disbelief. And why should I believe a wretch like yourself? Delta is a friend to the Empire and a member of The Ministry. You do know what the penalty would be under Ministry law for treason? Let me just say that the consequences make Puritania look like child's play. Lucian produced from his coat a series of documents and handed them to Dreadfire. As you can see Lord Damien, it has been documented on several occassions that Delta plans on bankrupting the Empire by causing the collapse of The Resi Corporation. This would in turn send AMF into economic dispair, and ontop of that Delta plans on secretly dragging AMF into several costly wars that will leave you all open to invasion. Wether by Delta's hand or by the hands of an ally of his, Automagfreek would fall. Your nation is marked.

Damien gestured for the two men to follow him into his private den on the first floor. The One stayed close to Damien with a ready sword in case either one tried to do anything. The One noticed a strange aura about the being named Vlad. His essence made The One think he may have been of Death Dealer origin. He decided he would wait before making any accusations. As the group entered the den, Dreadfire extended his hand and offered his guests a seat. Lucian nodded and sat, but Vlad remained standing. The burning inferno in the fireplace cast errie shadows on the darkened walls and danced wickedly across Damien's emotionless face. He eyed both men carefully as a slight western breeze shook the large windows that accented the room.

Vlad removed the hood from his head, revealing a ghost white face that was saturated in scars. His voice was menacing, and he raised a long bony finger and pointed it at the fiery Warlord. What Lucian speaks of is true. In fact, I was the man hand picked my Delta to personally assassinate Zander and your son and make it seem like an inside job. Vlad glanced over at The One, and as he did a wicked smile crossed his face. You know that I could do this, for we are of the same essence. Death Dealer I am, born from the Tomb of the Mutilated I was. But alas Damien, the spirit of The Destroyer rests within you, and because of that I cannot carry out such acts against your Empire. Tens of thousands of years ago the Death Dealers fought alongside The Destroyer, and it honors me to side with you. What we say to you is true. he board has been set, and soon the pieces will begin moving.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1053598.jpg
Vlad Shadowclaw

Damien knew that it certainly was possible that Delta could and would betray him. When Dreadfire first met Delta in the Vault of souls that lay dormant inside The Halls of the Dead he knew that he had released a foul beast. Most interesting news indeed. But what is there for me to do, rain fire and death upon Delta because two upstarts said so? As you know Automagfreek does not have a first strike policy. We prefer to wait for the fight to come to us, the crush it with great ferocity. Are you serisouly suggesting that I engage Delta and the mighty legions of Crimmond?

Lucian stood and chuckled aloud. Lord Damien, Crimmond has not been involved in a large scale military conflict in ages. Their units do not have the experience that your Sentinels have, and with the reputation they have earned the armies of Crimmond would cower and fall. I should know.... Vlad stood and looked at The One. And you know what I say is true. When have you known a Death Dealer not to be loyal to it's supreme master? Our master is The Destroyer.....always has been, always will be. But instead of a head on engagement, you could let Delta know that you have this information and call him out on it. We already know we can never return to our homeland, for we would be promptly dealt with. Forever here we must now remain, and we stand ready to serve you, o' Great Destroyer of worlds.

Damien ran a hand across his rough face and let loose a deep sigh. Automagfreek sits at the Delegate possition of The Allied Powers. I cannot strike a member of my own regional alliance, therefore we must wait for him to make the first move. I know what I must do: I will attempt to get Delta to confirm this information through abit of deception. If what you tell me is not confirmed in some manner by Delta, then I will personally tear your souls apart. Are you prepared for the potential consequences?

The pair nodded without hesitation.

Very well then. The moon is high in the night sky, and as darkness falls so does an age old alliance. Our brotherhood, our love for eachother will soon be lost in a hail for hellfire, bristone, and bullets. Both sword and gun will meet, and many a good man will die...that is if what you say is true. We shall see.

****************


~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~


Delta, my old friend....it seems that an issue has come to my attention. This issue normally would mean nothing to me, except for the fact that it seems very credible.

I have good word that you are a liar and a deceiver. I have word that you are a traitorous bastard who will stab me in the back when it is turned. I have heard that even now you begin to rally your legions and sound your war drums. I have heard that the fall of Automagfreek is at hand.

I have heard these things from those that were once close to you. I myself know you all too well, my friend from the Vault of Souls. Tell me now, is there any truth to these accusations? Is it true that there is deception in The Ministry? There is no escaping me now Delta, for if you lie to me I surely will know it. And if you indeed tell me a lie I will claim your head just as quick as ever and place it on a silver pike outside my windowsill.

Speak now.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p984672.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

You call that deception! I call that outright.....calling him out! exclaimed Lucian as he looked at Dreadfire in disbelief. In light in the room begna to fade ever so slightly, and Damien's red eyes locked with those of Lucian. First of you insignificant worm, you will never question my judgement. I have done this on many an occassion. It involves me pissing him off to such a degree where he'll either admit it out of hatred or he'll wonder what the hell I'm smoking. Either way it's win-win. But a cretin such as yourself has no knowledge of mind games.

Lucian was abit taken back by Damien's defensive statement, so he left his head hang and silenced himself. The feiry Warlord snorted and grunted as he turned his back on Lucian. A long silence filled the room as Lucian fell silent and the two Death Dealers remained fixed on eachothers eyes. It was rumored that Death Dealers could communicate via telepathy, but rarely had Damien seen two Death Dealers do exactly that.

The One glanced over at Damien and motioned him over to the far corner of the room. The pair left their guests for a moment and engaged in abit of private discussion under cover of the nearby crackling fireplace. M'Lord, I believe this is a serious matter. A cause for concern if you will. Dreadfire waved his hand dismissively and reassured The One that the unending wrath and might of the Sentinels would prevail over any foe, even a foe such as Delta. Fear not my friend, we command perhaps the most terrifying force the world has ever seen. The soldiers of Crimmond would not stand very long up against us. They lack the experience and have not the reputation we have. If war should come, their cities will empty as the masses flee from our mighty war machine...either that or they will be mercilessly crushed under it's mighty wheels. Fear not, The Dread Fires can never be extinguished.

The One glanced back over at the two Black Staff members, sitting by themselves and chattering quietly. M'Lord, what shall we do with them? Damien bit his lover lip and thought for a moment. I know what to do.

Dreadfire walked back over to his guests and spoke in a commanding voice. alright, here's what is going to happen. If what you told me is indeed the truth, you both will be handsomely rewarded. You both will earn the title of Warchief, and you both will help lead my armies to victory against the Black Staff of Crimmond. However, if you are incorrect.....I will inflict such pain onto you both that it will become legendary. I will tear and seethe your flesh until it falls from your bone, and I will mummify you in your own entrails. Puritania my friends, the worst way on Earth to die. So, do we have a deal?

An errie smile crossed Damien's face as he awaited his answer, but alas it did not take long. We agree to your terms Lord Dreadfire. Soon our worth will be revealed to you. said Lucian.

I certainly hope so.....for your sake.

The atmosphere outside the Great Hall was tense. Sentinel legions began moving about the streets in haste. The story was the same at AMF military installations all across the country, where first wave units were preparing for combat. It was believed by Lord Damien that a show of willingness to strike coupled with a harsh inquiry would likely get him a straight answer from Delta.

As you can see, Borgir and Stormclaw, Delta will soon know that I am preparing my forces for war. I believe that by doing this he will see that I am dead serious, and perhaps I'l get a real answer from him. And I'm sure you both know what that answer will be if this is discovered to be true.

Stormclaw nodded. Great suffering and doom, Dreadfire. A trail of corpses seems to spring up behind you everywhere you go, and the Gods apprecaite this. For you always leave thier halls packed with fresh souls, and in return for this service you have been granted great power. Kingdoms will rise to power...but kingdoms fall to dust. The ahses of the dead will cloud the air and choke the lungs of Delta and the Black Staff. Their nostrills will be aflame with the stench of a million dead, their bloated and rotting corpses contaminating the air. Overhead vultures and ravens alike will sing your praises as they fest on the dead taht you will rain down upon them. I have forseen this o' Destroyer. This is what I have forseen.

Damien nodded in agreement. Yes, I have heard such prophecy before, you are not the first to tell me this. I know of the death I bring and the pain I inflict. I pray that this is all a lie....I pray to the Gods that I need not war with him. Killing friends is never a pleasant thing to do..

OOC: Bump

*tag*

*tag* I'll see how this pans out and then post.

"Things seem to be mustering in AMF."
"There must be a reason behind this action, must there not?"
"Perhaps they now face an enemy within, for none have declared hostility."
"If that is the case, then why is it our concern?"
"If AMF faces internal strife, and should it fall, the frail order our world has become built on will face ruin."
"We cannot allow for the world to slip into chaos."
"But we must not allow our nation to drive itself into a panic over speculation."
"So how are we supposed to defend against this potential threat to our world?"
"We stand ready, but act only if called upon. The New Commonwealth of Muktar can endure the coming chaos."
"The New- Perhaps we should alert our allies of these events, so we may stand ready to fill the gap of the power vacuum?"
"Such is a potent possibility, but we still have no proof of these events."
"It is never too late for diplomacy. See if they seek an embassy."
"So that we may observe their internal affairs?"
"So that we can prepare for potential threats. Anything that can harm AMF can harm us."
"And even if this is just paranoia, we gain a potent ally. Do we agree to the action of embassy?"
All five Council Delegates nod their agreement. An offer of embassic exchange is sent to AMF from the Muktari capitol city of Aeropolis.

Vice President Orcha Yultanov was sitting in his office. There were rumors of a build up in Automagfreek, or at least that's what the reports said. But the pictures did not arrive, at least until Alexander arrived. Alexander took a seat across from Orcha and handed him some picture labeled Classified.

Orcha started observing the pictures slowly. "Now what the hell is this? The Freeks are mobolizing."

The old General chuckled, massaging his chin with his hand as he looked over to Orcha. "Question is, for what?"

Orcha waved his hand. "Prepare a fleet in case."

Alexander nodded and left the room.

Orcha slumped in his chair, slapping himself in the face as he sighed. "How the hell can Sergei do this..."

((OOC: Aka tag))

<New White House, J City>

President Anderson was concluding his morning security briefing, the last topic was a rise in normal military movements in AMF, confirmed by an embassy report and several satellites as well as allied intelligence.

Secretary Wilson had just finished his briefing on this matter.

"Arthur, what is the threat level on this one?" asked the President, sitting back in his large leather chair that was unusually not behind his desk.

"Low Mr President, our limited interaction with AMF leads us to conclude that this is not a hostile act aimed at any of our allies or our own interests in the area. Our few remaining forces in Dr_Twist are on a heightened state of alert as per your orders, as are our two carriers in the Eastern Med. They have moved further south, towards the Suez Canal and away from Greece, as of 0815 they were 120 miles south of the coast."

"Ok. Keep an eye on it" said the President as he rose, signalling that the meeting was at an end.

"Yes Mr President" they replied before exiting the room via the large oak door that had swung open on cue as if somebody had been listening.

A Secstate aide burst into the office of the Emperor.

"Harry. Please knock when the door's closed. I'm practicing my kata now." His Majesty said, extinguishing his lightsaber. The twin remotes hover in the air, waiting for another round of bolt-blocking.

"Sorry, sir, but rumors are that Automagfreek is mobilizing."

An eyebrow raised. "Oh, and how does that concern us?"

"Well, it may be interesting to see how things unfold."

"Hmm. Yes. It will be interesting. Now let me continue. I'll get to it in a minute." He said, and the remotes began attacking Andrew again.

"Yes sir." Harry left the room, but could still hear the blaster shots and the hum of the lightsaber.

OOC: Also a tag. :D

[tag]

Secret IC:

Haven of the Triumvirate, Sydney

"Lord Executor, we have received key intelligence from the RAVEN satellite network regarding a major foreign military mobilization." reported an aide to Xavier Davidson, leader of the people of Tyrandis.

The Executor, who was drinking his morning cup of tea, averted his gaze from his newspaper.

"Hmmm? And does it really concern us?" responded Xavier, in-between sips of the beverage.

"Not in particular. However, you may be interested as to whose military and how many have been moved..."

"Spill it. I'm a busy man." said the Executor impatiently, wishing to get back to his reading.

"It's Automagfreek."

Xavier visibly turned white at this statement; after all, who hadn't heard of the numerous wars of annihilation that Damien fought, wiping out literally dozens of nations?

All thoughts of his normal routine thrown away, the Executor urged the aide to continue.

"How many? How many Sentinels has Damien mobilized for the attack?"

"We do not know specifics; however, TNIA SATINT indicates a much greater movement than any ever done before by the Destroyer.

Their target appears to be the nation of Crimmond, reasons being unclear at this time."

The aide pulled out a sheaf of documents, indicating known concentrations of Sentinel units.

"Jesus Christ..." whispered Davidson, horrified at what such a massive number of AMF's soldiers would do to the people of Crimmond.

"Listen up; relay the following orders to TNIA HQ: Set up satellites RAVEN-III through X for constant surveillance of movements. Also, call together the other members of the Triumvirate; we must consult regarding any possible action Tyrandis may take."

As the messenger hastily left the palace, the Executor thought about the coming slaughter...

OOC: Tyrandis, there's no way you could possibly know who the 'target' is.

Emergency cabinet meeting, the IDF Presidential Manor.

Present at this time is IDF President Kenny Williams, Secretary of War Jerry Angelo, Secretary of the Treasury Bob Boyers, VP Ben Tallman, and on video link is Secretary of State Ted Phillips who is attending a peace conference with GE.

The meeting hasn't started yet. They are waiting for 1 more person. About 15 minutes late and panting after his run down the corridor is Mossad Chief Avi ben Jacob. He is 25 lbs overweight and the run was not pleasant for him

"Sorry I'm late," Jacob said. "You wouldn't believe all that is going on."

"Don't keep me guessing Avi," said President Williams.

"OK," said Jacob as he caught his breath. "We have confirmed that there was an attempted attack on AMF. The target for the assassenation was our friend Lord Damien. Luckily he remained unscathed.

Details are sketchy, but from what we have been able to learn is that those sent to kill Damien weren't loyal to their leader and actually saved Damien's life by warning him of the danger."

"Who is behind this," interjected Secretary Angelo.

"We don't know yet," answered Jacob. "But, it is someone who has known Damien longer then any of us have been alive.

"OK, we need to know how to approach Damien about this and find out who is behind this and what threat it poses to the World," said Williams.

"No matter what it is, it is a threat," said Secretary Phillips. "As hard as it is to imagine AMF being unstable, if Damien is taken out they will be. The World would never be the same and rogue nations would rule the world if something happened to Damien and AMF so it is in our interests to help ensure that everything there goes smoothly, but we don't want to look like we are interfering there."

"OK," said Williams. "Lets just take a verbal vote on whether or not to contact AMF about this as we don't want to appear like we are interefering."

"Well, I think we owe it to our ally," said VP Tallman. Everyone nods agreement.

"So it is settled, we help AMF in whatever way possible, Mr. Phillips draft a message to Damien and send it," ordered Williams.

"Yes sir," Phillips said.

To: Damien the Destroyer
From: President Kenny Williams of IDF

We were troubled to hear about the events in the Great Hall recently. We are glad to have heard you came out unsvaved. We are your ally and if you need us to do anything we will obey.

The nation of IDF will serve the great Empire of AMF whenever needed. If you need help fighting Delta or any other enemies of yours just ask.

END TRANSMISSION

OOC: Tyrandis, there's no way you could possibly know who the 'target' is.

OOC: Odd. I thought you said you were mobilizing a huge number of forces for an assault.

From satellite photos, I figure I could tell where they were going... considering that every time you fight, you have millions of troops rampaging through a civilian population, murdering, raping and pillaging :p

If you haven't moved them... then I apologize for my jumping the gun http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/sauer/angry-smiley-029.gif

Statements came in from across the globe mere seconds after the words that were spoken had been said. Almost instantly the computer inside Damien's throne room erupted to life, spewing forth mulitple statements ranging from embassy requests to pledges of assistance.

The only problem is this happened just after the conversation fell silent. Dreadfire knew his precious Great Hall had been bugged. Without saying a word, Damien instructed his guests to follow him to the high hill that overlooked ULE City....the site of his son Azrael's fortress. With the dignitaries gone, The One and a team of technological experts began sweeping the throne room and the rest of the great Hall for taps and bugs. Surely this had to be the case, and Damien was determined to find out who had bugged is home.

Once the group arrived at the Westwind Citadel, Damien received word from his military leadership: word was now spreading like wildfire, and war with Crimmond would now be imminent thanks to the actions of an inep few. Their determination to know exactly what goes on in AMF may have just ignited a large and dangerous powder keg. Well, so much for threats, deception, and diplomacy. If I know Delta as well as I think I do, he will respond with an iron fist. The man is not capable of remorse, just as I am not. Grunted Damien through gnashed teeth.

~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~

I would like to thank whoever disclosed information about a secret AMF affair to the world. Your craven actions have forced AMF into a position it does not like to be in, and for that you are just as guilty as the next man.

If I find out who has placed listening devices in my home, I swear to the Gods above that they will be next to die because I will not be finished by a longshot.

Thank you for now forcing us into action. May the Gods have mercy on you, because the Dread Fires certainly won't.


http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1013847.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

OOC: Seriously guys, this conversation was taking place in private chambers. There's no way anybody should know that transpired, let alone that Crimmond is the target. Poor form if I do say so myself, but for the sake of RP I'm going to run with it.

I now wait for Crimmond.

OOC: I know nothing about troop mobilizations or anything about who was behind what happened. All we have is some intel saying that an assassination attempt occured, but IDF intel knows nothing else so we didn't disclose anything since we know nothing that can be acted on at all. We didn't pick up any sentinal movements as we don't look for those. We know Sentinals are active when a nation is reduced to rubble

OOC: I know nothing about troop mobilizations or anything about who was behind what happened. All we have is some intel saying that an assassination attempt occured, but IDF intel knows nothing else so we didn't disclose anything since we know nothing that can be acted on at all. We didn't pick up any sentinal movements as we don't look for those. We know Sentinals are active when a nation is reduced to rubble


OOC: No, there was no actual assassination attempt. Lucian and Vlad informed Damien that Delta had a plot to assassinate Azrael and Zander. Nothing actually happened, they told Damien well before it was supposed to happen.

OOC: No, there was no actual assassination attempt. Lucian and Vlad informed Damien that Delta had a plot to assassinate Azrael and Zander. Nothing actually happened, they told Damien well before it was supposed to happen.
OOC: I was just posting what my government knows (or in this case doesn't know as the Intelligence was very poorly reported by The Mossad due to a lack of real intle sources outside of an excess of chattering)

"Sire, we have reports that AMF is mobalishing, no idea who the target is, but as you know this could be a danger to all." The Emporer leaned back in the golden throne trying to think of what to do next.

"The Freeks wouldn't mabalise without a good reason would they, there must be somehting wrong, seriously wrong. Contact Lord Damien and ask for a explanation, actually don't do that, I have no doubt that Damien wishes to keep this secret and I respect that. If he annoucnces something to the public tell me, I don't want him to nkow we have this information."

OOC: another Quality production brought to you by none other then AMF!
IC: "Sir, it seems that Damien is Mobilizing his leigons,"
"really now? that seems quite odd, Normally Damien wouldn't even get near his leigons if someone threatened him, this has gotta be big sir,"
"Like Hell it is, we gotta support him all the way sir,"
"Sir, if we supported AMF in his problems..."
"SILENCE!, all of you settle down, First of all, normally no one would get near Damien or AMF in a Battle, most who do are condemned to their graves and they know it. now, if Someone has threatened Damien and AMF, it must be Big as all hell, Dammit! I want a Sit Rep Stat! I want to know everything, and hook up the KLREN will you?"
"yes sir but this will look horrible upo..."
"I don't give a f**k what it makes ME look like, I'm worried about what's best for the Illiorian people, there's no way in HELL i'm going to win against Jelrich, and hell, I'd Love to make my finally great as all in the world."
"whatever you say sir," said the political advisor, "No wonder the people loved him in his prime, his duty to the citizens of Illior, and not worrying about his public appearance." she thought to herself

**ENCRYPTION LEVEL ORANGE 5**
TO: DAMIEN WARLORD OF AMF
FROM: CHAIRMAN KAR OF THE INGC
Damien, I know we have had all of about no relations since my term but now, i would like to open that channel, I and the Illiorian people are ready to assist you in whatever way you need, we still remember the days when the skies were red with the blood of our enemies and our own brave pilots fighting side by side, keeping the APTO safe from harm. Again, whatever you require is available,

Chairman Kar,
**END ENCRYPTION LEVEL ORANGE 5**
OOC: i reposted this since I just found out that someone leaked that information, I'll Delete my other post.

As the Prime Minister read the reports of AMF's alleged mobilisations, he paled somewhat. AMF was, to be sure, an ally; but who could fail to be cautious in this situation? He considered for some time, then sent for Doctor Ramirez. He rationalised. Why would they mobilise? Where would be the reason? And why do it so covertly? Unfortunately, he could only get one conclusion from his thoughts. But it's not confirmed, comrade. It's an allegation, a rumour. He knew that it was only a rumour, but his mind was torn between making ready for all hell to loose itself upon the earth and maintaining calm. What if I'm wrong?

OOC: I forget to check NS for a while and I get this. God damn... I don't even know if I'll be able to get a response I can back up. Stupid RL is getting a whole helluva lot busier now that I'm an adult(allbeit a mildly immature one)... One the plus side, this plays into my current political situation quite nicely.

IC:

Delta sat in his caverous office, on a chair that was older than anyone in the Combine, elves included. He was out of place in that sparkling and cheery room. A visage of darkness around him always, not just from hs clothes, but from his attitude and repuation.

He looked over reports and messages about AMF, the leak and the all important letter from Damien. So far, he had reacted as no one should have expected. He ignored it. Publicly, that is. "Senator...you are a man of great wealth and power in the Combine, handling our annexations in Southern Baggera, despite the fallout from Minsk. I applaud you for that. I must inform you that the defense forces in your area are about to increas substantially. General Santiana will be placing the Czek Gaurds along the border."

"Yes, Administrator. May I ask why?" the younger man asked. He was an Imperial. Political enemy. But he was still a patriot and would accept defense forces gladly.

Delta uttered five words that paled the man's face. Words that most men never wanted to hear. "Damien Dreadfire intends to invade."

http://home.earthlink.net/~alpha_zero_usm/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/delta.jpg
Administrator Delta
Emperor of Crimmond

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

Within two hours of that meeting, every single base in Crimmond went on alert, troops being called n from the reserves, Generals returning from vacations and the CSS Vladimir, the last remaining Crimmond carrier, moved from the Atlantic to just north of the Lybian coast.

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

"What's Delta doing? Why hasn't he informed the Senate? He's mad to think that he ca-"

"Shut up Ghost! This is [i[Delta[/i] we are talking about. Yes he's a maniac spawned from who knows what, but dammit, even he has to have a reason for this. So shut up and give me time to figure out what that is!"

Such was the argument between Ghost and Riok Oran, two of teh Imperial Party's biggest players. Ghost was the enigma. Never showing her face, but showing that she was capable of anything. Oran... well, he was a pain in the ass to Delta. Former leader of Baggera, he had been the enemy of Crimmond for his reign, vanishing as his nation fell and reappearing with the banner of the Imperials on his armor.

Oran hissed through his deformed mask and looked at the reports, similar to Deltas, yet lacking details. Such was the downside to communications blackout with the rest of the world. The Black Staff told the nation what was going on, rather than they hearing it for themselves.

http://home.earthlink.net/~alpha_zero_usm/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/overlord.jpg
Riok Oran
Leader of the Imperial Party

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

For two days, Crimmond sat there, preparing for a war. Troops swelled at the borders and on the coasts. Rumors abounded. The media was in a frenzy.

Yet still, Delta did not comment on it, going so far as to have a press conference... and talk about the economy. A moot issue if there ever was one, considering that it was so strictly controlled that it couldn't move up or down ten cent without Delta's approval. He was playing mind games back with Damien, by politicly ignoring the man, but militarily preparing to be invaded. Or to invade...

M'Lord, it would appear that Delta has answered the call of battle. Crimmond's borders swell with troops. They are prepared to meet our forces head on. Said The One from his chair. The main hall of Azrael's fortress were filled with every major Warchief under Automagfreek, and at a large round table they all sat. Lord Dreadfire shook his head ever so slightly, then drew breath.

I think this is evidence enough. Delta has not made comment, yet he is well aware of what is going to transpire. I think that both the letter combined with the mass mobilizations of Sentinels have worked flawlessly: Delta knows we're pissed, and he knows that I know. He glanced over at his guests, and as he did a wicked smile crossed his face. Congrats gentlemen, you were correct. Therefore I hereby name you both 'Warchief' and issue you your legions. Hundreds of thousands of Sentinels are now under your command. Lead them well, make me proud.

Both Vlad and Lucian smiled back, content that Lord Dreadfire had finally seen the truth in their statement. Now then, there is much planning to be done. Crimmond is a country that is more vast than ours. Their military is nowhere near as battle hardened as ours, but we (as always) must not underestimate our enemy. In doing so we could effectively seal our own fate. Delta is a clever man, and he will counter our forces in any way he can.

He glanced across the table and eyed his Warchiefs closely. Alright men, what are your thoughts? First up was Damien's son Azrael.

I think that a mass ground campain will bring this one in. Being the least experienced in combat of those here (save for Vlad and Lucian), I will lead my troops in a secondary assult. Either from the air or by the sea, as the first waves of troops break upon the shores we will adjust ourselves accordingly and strike most likely in a flanking maneuver. This is of course only a rough outline, only the Gods know how this battle will turn out. Delta will ineed have the advantage as the defender, and perhaps this is what he has planned, for he know that attacking the Automagfreek mainland is a mistake.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1005314.jpg
Azrael the Advocate
-Warchief of AMF Forces-

As always I will assit Lord Dreadfire in the primary assult. I will have Zander's forces at my rear supplying artillery support for our landing troops. After we have broken their defenses I will move in conjunction with Azrael's forces while Zander moves with Lord Damien. I will have my air legions provide us with as much support as possible, but I doubt either side will be using aircraft much. Both sides are going to be watching the skies like hungry spiders.....ready to snatch the first fly out of the air that presents iteself.

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General Brinks
-Warchief of AMF Forces-

My forces will take the initial landing in conjuction with Brinks and his legions. Being the largest of all the Sentinel legions, I can afford to take most of the casualties in the initial landing assult. The goal here is to get Delta's forces to fall back, and from there we launch a blitzkrieg assult on his retreating forces. We will not allow them to settle in anywhere, so we can not afford to do the usual 'pillage and burn' tactics. Although I do plan on scaring the civilian populace into submission through the usual means of course. Make it bloody and make it happen men, this will be our finest hour when we come out on top.

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---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

Being the mightiest of the naval fleets, I'll take care of any naval resistance and provide nonstop ground support via the War Nerve. Not much else for me to say, Lord Damien knows exactly what I'm going to do...as always.

Although Delta is smart, he's never seen combat. I'm confident that I'll be the first to claim his head. But remember Lord Damien, he is of shadow and flame. I would suggest keeping The One at your side, for you never know what kind of spiritual energies he might unleash.

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Zander
-Warchief of AMF Forces-

And as for us, we will move our legions in another assult seperate from what you have planned. We know the Crimmond mainland well, and we will prove ourselves to you all on the battlefield. We have a few tricks up our sleeves that will hurt Delta in ways he's never hurt before. It is an honor to lead an assult with the best military in the modern world.

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Lucian Borgir
-Warchief of AMF Forces

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1053598.jpg
Vlad Shadowclaw
Warchief of AMF Forces


*********

The group talked late into the night, discussing every single move in their campaign. Indeed Vlad and Lucian would serve usefull, for their knowledge of Crimmond's military capabilites was very precise. As the planning continued into the night, millions of Sentinels were activated and dispatched into their individual groups. A large garrison was left beind as backup, run under a few of the loyal tribal leaders. Automagfreek was ready yet again to feel the sting of battle, and for once The Destroyer would have a worthy opponent.

No message was issued to the press regarding the recent movements by both sides. Perhaps Damien is playing the same game that Delta was?

<Encrypted Transmission>
To: Damien Dreadfire
From: King Michael McLeod I

Lord Dreadfire,

I know this is our first communication, but with the passing of my father and the war that has all but ruined our country, I have had little time for international affairs. Now one of the first things I hear is that you are mobilising for war. I have no idea who your intended target may be, but I am assured that you have never struck without reason. If your cause is truly just, share it with me, ally, and you shall have the support of the McLeods until the end of time.

King Michael McLeod,
Supreme Monarch of McLeod03
CINC MAFCC
Leader of Church of McLeodia

To: His Excellency, Emperor Erik of ITD
From: Delegate Irons

It appears that AMF has begun mobilizing his forces. World powers are expressing concern over this, and I believe it would be wise of ITD to make a statement on the matter. I'm sorry to ask you to do this on your wedding day, but you must make a statement to Lord Damien of AMF. I believe this may have something to do with the Feminany incident, if not than we have nothing to worry about. Best to be sure, though.
=====================================

To: Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek
From: Emperor Erik Kersk, Empire of Itinerate Tree Dweller.

Greetings and Salutations. Our best intel tells us that AMF has begun troop mobilization. While we do not know the exact nature of this troop mobilization, we do wonder if this has to do with the Feminany situation. If this is so, know that we have no ill wishes toward the nation of Feminany. We realize they are under your protection. If this has anything to do with Feminany, we will not interfere with you action. If this is not the case, we wish you well on your future endeavors. Good day.

Emperor Erik Kersk.

AMF News Update

We have breaking news. Minister Hartman has releassed a short statement to the international community, and one nation in particular.....Crimmond. Crimmond has been a long time ally of Automagfreek, so this is a most bizarre situation.

I am issuing this statement on behalf of Lord Damien the Destroyer. Evidence has come to light that points to a plot to undermine the stability of Automagfreek by Delta of Crimmond. In responce to this information, Lord Damien demands that Delta stand down and submit to AMF authority.

The largest invasion force in Automagfreek's history has been assembled, and if Delta does not answer to this ultimatum there will be hell to pay. Delta is to turn over any and all evidence in his possession of this plot to assassinate the son of Lord Damien, Azrael, and his most prized Warchief, Zander. Delta will then turn himself over to Automagfreek to face judgement by an international panel headed up by Lord Damien himself. That is all.

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Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-

Official Statement from The Proletariat Commonwealth of The Island of Rose:

Whoa, okay... um. Yup, this is gonna lead to war...
-Minister of War: General Alexander Roska

((OOC: Closed or open? Also, was this set up beforehand to the T? Or did you two arrange specific rules? =/))

OOC: Closed. We're going to be planning this behind the scenes.

((OOC: Ah that's good, not that'd I won't help you, but I'm gonna need all my forces at home, gonna make a huge upgrade in the army. Anyway, glad to know you're back :P))

((OOC: Anyway, glad to know you're back :P))


OOC: Only for this, then I'll probably disappear for a short time again.

OOC: Bump for the night and for views.

"Sire, you asked for updeates on the AMF situation."

The Emporer leaned forward in his chair gripping the sides, "Tell me quickly Matthew."

"We know the intended target sire."

"Who is it? Is it HP? I knew AMF wanted to take the RWC down a peg."

"No sire. It's Crimmond."

"WHAT! God Damm Damien, whats brought this about? Any idea."

"They claim Delta wanted to take out AMF, or at least undermine Damien. However we have no idea if this is true."

"I'd be suprised if it is, Delta isn't that stupid, but then again Damien dosen't lie often. He wouldn't go to war unecarly. We'll stay out of it for now."

"yes, Sire.2

A man steps up to a podium. He is in ornate armor and looks extremely angered. Delta is standing behind and to the right.

"I am General Santiana, Warlord of the Czeck Gaurd and Commander of the ongoing Operation Warmonger. There has been much questioning of why Crimmond has commited so many troops to it's borders... You are the soldiers of teh Combine, both Assault and Strike Marines alike. I know you will fight and die for this land... and you may well do that after this day. I give you... Delta."

The camera pans backwards as Delta steps foreward. Thare had been no sounds from the assembles armored and unarmored trrops spread out in the confines of some military base. It then zooms back in. "I am honored to be speaking before you today and also shamed to be saying the following words. We are under threat of invasion. More than that, we are under threat of complete destruction as only possible under Damien the Destroyer's forces. He has all but declared war on us for some insane accusation that I attempted to assainate his bastard son. I can't even tell you what this man looks like and you know I don't order a death without knowing exactly who the target is."

He pauses, then reads exactly what Hartman said, looking out over the soldiers, taking out a lighter and burning the paper it was written on.

"Minister Hartman... I know you shall be seeing this. You have two options. You start a war against this nation and thereby forfit your nation's position as Delegate and your rights as an APTO member and fight a losing war against the APTO or you publicly provide proof that I was involved in the plot against your nation."

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General Santiana
Warlord of Czeck Gaurd
Operation Warmonger Commander

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Administrator Delta

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

Later, Delta sent a message directly to Damien.

"Damien... if you want to start a war with me, you will have to make the first troop movement. ANd you will have to face the consequences. Yes, I am a dirty, no good double crossing son of a bitch, but that's just the way I am. Every nation on earth is a potential annexation. You were rather low on that list. You just jumped to the top ten.

"Never has a leader of Crimmond been tried in another land after taking power. I don't intend to start now. If you want me... you will have to prove that you can get me. Real leaders die in battle. I will be with the Czeck Gaurd in Belarus for several more weeks, so I await your answer."

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

Skye(formerly Warsaw), Capital of Crimmond:

Riok Oran strode the hallways of the Palace, coming to a halt at the doors to the Black Council. He literally kicked the door in and marched up to the center light, the council in their usual darkness. Oran knew what each looked like though, seeing in infrared. "Did Delta do this?" Silence. "Answer me mammels! Did he plot to kill this Azreal or was it you?"

Silence, then a voice from a Council member. "Oran, you are not a member of the Black Staff. Why should we tell you anything?"

The creature looked back towards the door as Ghost entered. "Because of her, Senator. And don't be suprised that a reptile can see in the dark." he answered as Ghost entered the beam of light and removed her mask for the first time in public. The hood went down, her red hair splaying over her shoulders and even the Council went abuzz with her appearence.

"Silence, Councilmen. I owe you no answers. Just know now that you are on borrowed time." She said, voice unmuffled now. "The bloodline is still alive." The woman grinned and walked out. Oran waited, then left as well. The ripple of shock swept over the palace as they left.

Lara Tian, heir to the throne, was still alive.

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Lara Tian(Ghost)
Heir to the throne of Crimmond
Imperial Party Stalwart

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Riok Oran

OOC NOTE: The last part would not be known to any other nation, excepting possibly AMF, with his Black Staff informent.

"Minister Hartman... I know you shall be seeing this. You have two options. You start a war against this nation and thereby forfit your nation's position as Delegate and your rights as an APTO member and fight a losing war against the APTO or you publicly provide proof that I was involved in the plot against your nation."

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General Santiana
Warlord of Czeck Gaurd
Operation Warmonger Commander

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Administrator Delta


So are you denying these accusations, or are you simply skirting the issue? You or any other representative of Crimmond has yet to come forth and publically answer these allegations in a straightforward manner. As we see it, Automagfreek has been provoked into action and therefore we will not forfeit our nation's position of Delegate, regardless of your member status. The APTO needs Automagfreek at it's helm, and there are those in the APTO that would see a new administration installed in Crimmond. (OOC: Not really, just making stuff up for the sake of story.)

I can assure you that if you do not answer these accusations against you in an appropriate manner within 24 hours, we will enter Crimmond territory and sieze the mainland, and from there a new administration under the Crimmond people will be installed. Lord Damien knows exactly who shall do this......and I think you know as well.

24 hour countdown beings........now.

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Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-








Later, Delta sent a message directly to Damien.

"Damien... if you want to start a war with me, you will have to make the first troop movement. ANd you will have to face the consequences. Yes, I am a dirty, no good double crossing son of a bitch, but that's just the way I am. Every nation on earth is a potential annexation. You were rather low on that list. You just jumped to the top ten.

"Never has a leader of Crimmond been tried in another land after taking power. I don't intend to start now. If you want me... you will have to prove that you can get me. Real leaders die in battle. I will be with the Czeck Gaurd in Belarus for several more weeks, so I await your answer."


~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~



The ultimatum has been made, and the line has been drawn in the sand. Failure to follow the instructions I had Minister Hartman relay to you will result in your immediate termination.

You speak of annexation? HA! In my eyes you have never been regarded as anything more than a small sliver in my finger, an annoyance that is easily removed. It has been by my good graces that you and your country are still intact after the incident involving Baggera.

Yes, real leaders take charge and lead from the front lines. It is not a leader's job, however, to die in the heat of battle. That in turn only proves that they were not strong enough to lead, unfit for command if you will. I will be landing in the first wave on your shores. Look for my landing craft Delta, and mark my face. You had better hope my body lay broken and my spirit crushed before I find you. You had better hope me dead and rotting on the beaches, because if you are not fortunate enough to take me out.....I will unleash upon you such wrath and unholy fury that it would make Lord Melkor himself tremble and cower in terror.

24 hours, cretin. Prepare to meet whatever foul maker that created you. I hope your conscience is clear Delta......soon....

Sleep Now In The Fire.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p1030001.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

OOC: Sorry for the bunk ass post, not alot of time today for me to be online.

"This has gone on far enough, General. We must do something. As I see things, we have two options. Do as the Destroyer orders or fight a war against battle hardened troops with what amount to green recruits in comparison."

Santiana listened to Delta speak, looking over a map of Europe. There was one place he was looking in particular... Greece. "There is another option. Launch ICBMs at all cities in Greece."

That got the Administrator's attention. "Are you daft? First of all, we only have ten nuclear warheads in the entire nation and second of all, the missiles have all been refited as propoganda devices. They rain down picyures of nuclear explosions... I know enough about Damien to know that launching a propoganda attack would just make him madder than he allready is."

"Then leave me to find a suitable option. Stall the Destroyer and I will give you a chance against him."

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

"Damien... I am contacting you privately for a reason. My position as leader of Crimmond is not a coincidence. That we are allied in the Ministry and the APTO is even less of one. I was placed in a position to get our nations close... as only one from the depths of the Halls could.

"You let a monster loose on the world and the Black Staff gained it's favor. I've been using them and they me for our own reasons... I, personally, had nothing to do with your son or any other assasaination plots on your nation. I cannot speak for the Black Council or the advantacious tendancies of the Agents I hold command over...

"The Black Staff may well have plotted against you. I give you my word that I did not authorize anything of that sort. I will back that word up with proof within 24 hours or...

"Or I will face you in Greece, man to monster."

OOC: Sorry I haven't posted anything Crimm, ALOT of personal problems are keeping me off the boards right now.

OOC: Not a problem, man. I'll still be here.

Ha! A snort escaped Damien's mouth as he listened to Delta with unbelieving ears. He let loose a quick sigh and shook his head as he sat and pondered what move to make next. It seemed as if Delta, the mouthpiece and political figurehead of the Black Staff, was trying to honestly tell Damien that he knew nothing of the assassination plots. This the fiery Lord did not believe for a second, but for some reason doubt began to resinate inside his mind.

So you mean to tell me Delta, creature most foul, that your ears and eyes know nothing of this plot that was afoot? Are you telling me the Black Staff are playing you? If indeed this is true, please show me some positive proof. Because at this point the only words I believe are those of my most trusted advisors, and it is in their advice that our fleets move forward.

Damien looked across at the screens that filled his private meeting quarters. The screens were alive with Sentinels moving rapidly into their transports and taking up thier positions on the mighty Freek warships. Damien's Flagship, the massive and unholy looking Mouth For War, was ready to pull out of port the second Lord Dreadfire boarded.

As you can see Delta I mean business. You have less than 12 hours to provide me with specific evidence that the Black Staff are going behind your back. If this is the case, looks like the factions in Crimmond will be divided, and a hole new kind of war is going to take place......a war for the destruction of the Black Staff and the reuniting of Crimmond under your banner. Unless you're totally bullshitting me, in which case I will pile the bodies high and let the westward winds carry the stench of rot and defeat to the farthest reaches of your borders.

Damien lowered his head and looked on with demonic eyes. His red pupils falring and shimmering in the dancing light of a thousand candles. As he sat without motion, The One took up position behind him and lifted his chin ever so slightly. While his face could not be seen, he was sure that Delta could feel his glare upon his very soul. Mark my words Delata, and mark these eyes... As The One spoke the blackness under his hat was pierced by a blinding flare of deep purple. The One's two beedy eyes were visable for the first time. If you lie just once to us I will find your face on the battlefield, and I will draw my shining blade and strike down upon you with all the fury of this world and the next.

The One's eyes dimmed into blackness, and slowly he dematerialized leaving Dreadfire alone. The clock is ticking Delta, and my forces are moving. Tick tock, my friend, tick tock....

OOC: Not the best post, but this is setting things up for a bigger one.

"Damien... if I lie to you, it means the end to everything I have built. It means the death of a nation. If I speak the truth... it means little different. The nation survives, but shattered. Either way, Crimmond will be ruined... to goad you into destroying completely a nation which has survived wars dating back to the Third Reich would be something that not even the fools of New Spartha would be stupid enough to do." With that, Delta walked away from the terminal, leaving it on to see the monster in man's form walk off. A few seconds later and an aide switched it off.

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

Two hours later.

Delta was at the palace, in one of his foulest moods. He did not stop for anyone or anything, walking slowly through the corridors, ignoring aides, senators and anyone else stupid enough to try and speak with him.

Through the doors of the Black Council he strode, past the central beam of light and straight up to the Chairman's seat. "Crimmond has less than ten hours to live. You, on the other hand, have less than ten seconds unless you speak now and speak fast."

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

Across the capital, the news was spreading. the Imperial Party suddenly had more sway with the masses than the Black Staff. And with the sway of the masses the suddenly had more power than the Black Staff.

"Whether we keep that power is not up to me, Riok. It isn't up to you, me, Delta, the masses or anyone in Crimmond. Do you understand that?" Lara Tian sat across a desk from the armored reptialian, looking displeased. "It is up to a man that my brother once called 'a psychopathic mass murderer guilty of more war crimes than any man in existance'. Our fate is in Damien Dreadfire's blood soaked hands."

Oran opened his remaining eye and looked at her for a long second. "Then may God have mercy on us all."

Intar walked up to Orion's desk.

"Whats up?" asked Orion.

"Something fairly interesting" Intar replied. He held up a small padd and showed it to Orion. Orion grabbed it and looked it over.

"AMF and Crimmond have gone to war. Who shall we side with?" asked Intar.

Orion thought for a moment. "Nither. We stay nutral, after all, both our are allies. But keep an eye on it. One is bound to fall, and if that happens....."

"Then there will be a power vacum on Earth" Intar finished.

"Exactly, and we have no idea if that de-stablization will ripple throught the galaxy or not" Orion said.

"Got ya. I'll go tell the others" Intar turned and walked out.

"You do that" said Orion. He then turned his TV back on and continued to watch old re-runs of Star Trek.


OOC: Ya....very long winded Tag of interest. I'll be keeping a close eye on this.

Damien leanded back in his chair and ran his massive paw across his moist forehead. Indeed this had been the hardest decision he had ever had to make, but the fate of his entire Empire was at stake. Dreadfire knew that invasion was the only way.....and perhaps it could be done as surgically as possible. Perhaps as the Panteran conflict went, so could this. Indeed the Black Staff were a menace to mankind, and Damien feared that Delta was merely their puppet. He made certain the the transmission he was about to send Delta was over a secure line, and that he would be the only one to see it.

The board has been set Delta, and the pieces have already begun moving. There is nothing more I can do to hold back the coming storm, but if you are a man of truth as you claim, then I have an offer for you. Take several of your most loyal legions and take up position behind your nothernmost garrisons that are controlled by the Black Staff. After the Sentinels land and break their ranks they will begin to fall back, and from there your men will mow them down and together you and I will advance through the country with great speed, hunting down those loyal to the Black Staff and destroying them. I will not loose my wrath if this is the course of action you wish, and I will hold my command for total war. The offer has been placed at the table, and I believe that this is the only possible chance to oust the Black Staff while dealing minimal damage to Crimmond's national structure.

However, if this is not the course of action you have in mind, then I will see you on the landing grounds, friend.

The next move is yours Delta, the fate of your nation depends on it.

With that the screen went black and the airwaves fell silent. The only noise that filled the ears of The Destroyer were that of his Flagship, the Mouth for War. It's massive humming engines provided a sense of comfort to the Warlord as he waved his hand and dismissed his personal staff. He stepped out onto the deck as the sun finished setting, and his lips were soon saturated with the taste of salt water. A storm was indeed brewing in more ways than one, and the days to come would be the most trying for all sides involved in this mess.

After the transmission had ended, the fleets spread out their formation and continued on full ahead towards the Crimmond coastline. Orders were clear to stay in international waters until it was time to being the engagement, and having acknowledged that the gigantic convoy of 5 Warchiefs and Lord Damien himself trudged on despite the now deteriorating weather. As the miles passed the convoy continued to spread itself farther and farther apart with Azrael and Lord Damien at it's center. Freek subs and aircraft were on constant patrol miles ahead of the fleets in order to intercept any craft that stood in their way. Orders were broadcast throughout every available channel that the Sentinels were coming, and all vessels in the area should keep thier distance.

No response came to Damien's message for several hours, until the last minutes of the three hour mark.

The response was not private though, it was quite public, being broadcast to every home in Crimmond. It came from the palace, where Delta was surrounded by several marines, looking to be in a foul mood, as usual.

"Citizens of Crimmond, I come to you tonight to tell you that Automagfreek forces are nearing our shores. I would usually call upon every man and woman to take up the arms I have provided you to fight these invaders... but you would be slaughtered like cattle and would only annoy the might that threatens us more. You, as I, know that Crimmond has lasted much longer than many nations in this world. May you remember that tommorow, whether the flag of Crimmond flies over your city or the banner of AMF hangs from balconies." It was the first time any leader of Crimmond ever mentioned defeat to the public. "I have all confidence in our forces, but the Sentinals and Death Dealers are battle hardened killeing machines while our troops have started to grow soft. Keep them in your prayers tonight."

A second later and delta looked at the marines around him. "Damien, this part of the feed is not being shown to the public. I will not have the Crimmond armed forces turn on itself, as you suggest. Because it cannot. Then men here represent one part of the Crimmond lands. None are loyal to the Black Staff anymore than they are to the Imperials. They serve Crimmond. And they will defend it from you and any other invader. To do otherwise, no matter how good the results, would be unthinkable.

"I have just sent you coordinates to where I will be. We will meet on the shores of this nation. There will be no great army to fight you or artillery to shell you from miles away. I will be there. Alone."

OOC: Crap, another movie about AMF I want to see made... ;) You two got talent.

*munches popcorn and TAGs*

M'Lord, Delta is setting a trap for you. Scolded Damien's advisors as the massive fleets ground to a halt. They had reached the end of international waters, and in front of them lay the territory of Crimmond. Damien huffed and scoffed at the warnings. I will go regardless. I will leave instruction with my son if I should be captured or killed. If Delta decides to trick me, then we will unleash our full wrath upon the Crimmond mainland without descirmination.Delta knows this would happen, and I believe he knows better than to betray my trust. Dreadfire's advisors nodded in agreement, and as they began making final preparations for the invasion, The One stepped out from the shadows. Lord Dreadfire, I will accompany you onto the shores of Crimmond. Delta will surely not try anything with me by your side.

Damien paused and waved his hand dismissively at The One. Absolutly not. If Delta feels your presense on the beach he will surely strike. We wil run thermal scans on the entire area to make sure he is infact alone. I do, however, want you ready to materialize if need be. The One bowed his head respectfully and vanished into the darkness yet again. With their permieters both above and below the sea secure, the Warchiefs began breaking into the individual battlegroups and preparing their troops for the massive landings. With tight air and naval defenses on both sides, this war would most likely be decided on the ground. Damien knew this, and carefully warned his Warchiefs to expect either a massive assult from the seas or skies by Delta's forces. The Warchiefs were ready for the sting of battle once again.

Alright Delta, as the leaders of old met face to face before the great clashes, so shall we. Know that my guard is up, and instruction has been left in case this is a trap. I don't think you would be foolish enough to kill me or capture me, because you've seen the horrors that my Sentinels can unleash. They can loose the wrath yet again if deception crosses your mind. Heed my warnings though about the Black Staff....and there is yet another essence that I feel even now....and before this engagement is over I believe this essence that has been long silenced will finally make itself known. You know what I speak of.

The hour draws near, and my fleets are right at your doorstep. I will depart for your shores now, and I will land alone at the coordinates you gave me. Until then Delta...

****

The Sentinels began to stirr and a great uproar was heard echoing throughout the decks of the transport ships. They could smell the scent of fear the blew in with the evening breeze from the shores of the Crimmond mainland. Too long had they been denied fresh blood, too long had they been passive. The commotion was so loud that even the Warchiefs themselves could not silence it. All noise aboard the Freek ships was drowned out by the deafening roar and stamp of several hundred thousand of the worlds most infamous killing machines. The trump card was in Dreadfire's hand, and the Sentinels were indeed the face of that card.

As Damien's personal skiff sped away from the battlegroup, the noise of the enraged hoard of Sentinels carried itself across the waves, filling The Destroyer's ears with delight. Indeed the crashing waters could not drown out the racket of fury and undying rage. There will be a red sun tomorrow, if the sun will even rise at all.... Dreadfire thought to himself.

*tag* la la

Delta was indeed on those shores, waiting. He was alone on that stretch, excepting for a vintage Jeep, though it was putting out much more heat than normal.

He watched the fleet of Damien via orbital photos and sighs. So he comes. Flicking off monitors of the computers in the back, he pauses at one. He types in a command. Santiana, he's coming. Prepare yourself.

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

General Santiana did not respond. He was away from the landing areas and was too busy to care where Damien was at the moment. "Deploy the Brigade to Skye. I want the capital defended from all other forces." He stops the turning colonel. "ALL other forces. They will recieve orders from me, when they should stand down."

He watched the preparation for teh Brigade to leave. They were not really a Brigade, but a mix of both air and ground strike units. They were a small force, less than 100 fighting men and women, but they did their job well.

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

Delta flicked off the last monitor and moved to where the water was lapping at his boots. He waited for what seemed like hours to him, before he decided that Damien should be in sight of the darkened coastline. Reaching into a pocket he retrieves three flares and ignites them, dropping them onto the sand behind him. The cast a bright green/yellow light on the beach and a black form where he stood.

As the first flare hit the sand and instantly illuminated the area, Delta could suddenly see the demonic silhouette of Lord Dreadfire in the shallow water. Time itself seemed to slow to a near halt, and the sounds of the flares were drowned out by the simultaneous sounds of water breaking and armor clashing. Step by step the dark figure walked through the waters, and just before touching the beach itself a pair of red eyes broke the darkness. Damien was now clearly visable to Delta, and the colors of yellow and green danced wickedly across both men's faces. How long had Dreadfire been standing in the surf?

Both men starred eachother down, and as their eyes locked yet another figure presented itself. The One stood with his head tilted down and his hands inside his long black overcoat. Damien thought to himself If he makes a move or if there is any surprise, kill him. The One's raspy voice filled The Destroyer's head with a compliant Yes, M'lord., and the trio continued their staredown.

Delta, the eve of battle is upon us. You have brought me here, and I have come. What do you have to say? Even now as we stand here the mightiest legions of the Excessively Armed Empire make ready to unleash total carnage. I pray that before the sun breaks the horizon that we come to an understanding. Come now, speak.

The pair stood and silently awaited Delta's response. The One was ever cautious, and he remained ready to draw his sword or gun and defend his master if trouble presented itself. Back at the main battle group, the Warchiefs watched the exchange via infrared satellite imaging. If Damien was to fall, the invasion would commence immediatly and there would be no stopping the Sentinels.

Delta stared at Damien wading out of the surf, noting the armor compared to his own normal clothing. He was about to speak, but then the One appeared and Delta's mouth shut.

Delta watches Damien for a few moments, silent and listening, eyes trailing around the darkness before falling on the One. A grunt and he turns away. "Go home Damien." he says simply, trudging through the sand to the jeep, stopping after a few steps and looking back. "I can't put faith in you. Not after you show up with a Death Dealer...."

He turns away again and mutters just loud enough for both to hear. "Coward."

Damien lifted two fingers in the air, and The One disappeared into the darkness without making a sound. Delta, don't you dare turn your back on me. The sound of a blade being unsheathed could be heard, and Dreadfire drew a line in the sand in front of him. The only reason you are still alive right now is because of my good graces. You turn your back on me and you damn well what will happen.

Damien's red eyes flared and seethed, and he placed the Relic's Sword back into it's scabbard. The line has been drawn in the sand, old friend. Stand there with you back turned to me and I will depart these shores.....only to return in devastating force of biblical proportions. Cross this line, and salvation will find you. There are two ways out of this Delta, and only one involves you being alive. Come now, what say you? You speak of faith, yet you have no faith in the words I have spoken about the Black Staff? I believe your doubt lies not in me, but in your own black heart. What say you?

Damien took a step back and looked down his nose at Delta with a blank expression. His cape fluttered and picked up in the winds as the flares began to fade.

Delta pauses again and turns slowly. "Damien, I was released from the Halls of the Dead. Death does not scare me, it is merely another state. You should know that..." A look at the flares as one burns out, before looking back to Damien. "You will cut me down, right now, if you see it in required. It would mean General Santiana would be in charge. You think I am a pain in the ass? He's worse than I am, at times."

A sigh. "Allright Damien. I have two foes this day. One is you. The other is the Black Staff. I can only fight one at a time, though I may have to fight both. I cannot let an invasion fleet land on Crimmond unchecked. You know that... so I will allow one foe to survive unscathed."

He turns completly as he speaks and walks up to the Destroyer. Eye to eye he stares at him. "Your choice Damien. Do I die and do you fight for every inch beyond these shores, or do I live and do the Black Staff get decimated? Your decision."

You cannot have it both ways Delta, you cannot be rid of me and the Black Staff at the same time, it just is not going to happen. The Sentinels will touch down on your shores wether you like it or not, be it a force that will assist you in a 'coup' of sorts and oust the Black Staff, or be it a force that will drive the final nail in Crimmond's coffin. This decision is up to you Delta, things have been set in motion that cannot be undone. One way or another, dissension in Crimmond will end.

And make sure you have your priorities in order Delta, and I pray you are able to distinguish friend from foe. Do not make the fatal mistake of siding against me, for those who have no longer walk among the living. You fear not death, but you should fear the death of your people and your nation. The indomitable Sentinel war machine will trample over any army that stands in it's way, and Crimmond is no exception. How long will it take Delta, how long will it take for the Sentinels to sack your capital? Days? Weeks? Months? It will happen regardless of your decision here tonight, but the one that that will be affected is who gets to die and how many.

We are here to help you Delta, and I believe that there are indeed factions within the Crimmond military that are loyal to the Black Staff. Perhaps this could be our chance to see just who these men are, for if the Sentinels land on your shores there will be panic. The Black Staff will surely know that we are coming for them, hell I can make a broadcast that announces my intentions to snuff them out. This could expose the Black Staff, and our combined legions will destroy them just as the combined legions of Pantera and Automagfreek snuffed out the Seastone Council.

Damien sighed and shrugged his shoulders, obviously trying to reason with Delta beyond his own interests. His eyes remained locked and unmoving with that of Delta's, and a near sense of desperation was in the air.

Either that or we have an all out melee resulting in millions of deaths and the fall of Crimmond. In every major AMF engagement, I have ordered no more than 2 Warchiefs into battle, myself normally included. At the outskirts of your waters sits 5, and myself included that makes 6. I also have more tricks up my sleeve Delta, tricks that would literally scare you to your grave. Do not force me to make this call when we can work together to destroy a common foe. Do not force me to loose my wrath upon you when we can avoid this.

This decision is out of my hands. I have come her for blood, and I will not leave until it bleeds down from the skies. The choice is yours Delta; am I friend or foe?

Damien stepped closer to Delta and stood at the edge of the line he drew in the sand. The time had come for the final decision to be made, a decision that would effect the future of an entire nation.

Damien sighed and stepped back. "You are Damien the Destroyer. You are the single greatest warlord in human history, but you do not see something that is obvious. I am not from Crimmond. I do not know exactly where I am from, but it was not these lands. If anything, I am from that vault your Death Dealer opened."

He looks out at the sea. "I took the Black Staff from the shadows into the light and made sure it survived. I had the Emporer murdered as he spoke to Jai Resi. Then I annexed Baggera, smashed two rebelions and made sure no one contested my power."

Delta looked back at Damien. "Strange how we people in power love making speeches, when action is more appropriate, isn't it?" At that he stepped past Damien and sighed. "I will let your forces land unharmed, but the city of Myer is to remain untouched by your Sentinals. General Meridius is loyal to the Imperial Party, as is the entire Garrison of the city. They hate the Black Staff more than anything in this world. They even tried to have me killed once."

At that he turned again to face Damien, no matter if had turned to watch Delta as he crossed the line and removed his hat. "And Damien... you were smart to bring the One. If you hadn't, you would have been a fool and I would have tried to kill you for that foolishness."

Damien spoke not, but gave only a smile and a bow of the head. He turned abruptly and started back towards the chilly waters, his request from Delta clear. His ominous figure soon disappeared into the darkness, and all that could be heard was the splashing of his mighty feet as they walked through the surf.

The next morning as a red sun began to break the horizon, the AMF battlegroup began moving at full steam towards the Crimmond shoreline. The radios were totally silent, and the air was quiet and was not disturbed by either missile or shell. Several miles inside Crimmond waters the carriers and battleships abruptly stopped, leaving only the destroyers and transports moving forward.

After some time the coast was in sight, but no projectile from either side had presented itself. But alas the silence was broken as the doors on the first transport came crashing down, and the thunderous roar of the first wave of Sentinels engulfed the beach. The first 5,000 began landing and securing the area with great speed, but still no target was in sight.

Further out to sea, the next landing force of 20,000 began prepping for their landing with heavy and light armor. Lord Damien readied himself for action against the Black Staff, and although Delta had promised him amnesty, somewhere deep in his mind Dreadfire remained suspicious and on his guard. Only a fool would expose a vulnerable side, and Damien knew this all too well.

Waiting among the sands and land beyond the beaches were several units of Strike Marines, sent in by Delta to be the first units to meet the Sentinels. As the AMF trrops make their way on shore, they recieve the Marine's cooperation and the location of an airbase that was recently closed and will be open for their use.

Radio chatter was prevalent inside Crimmond, between air units and ground forces milling about. Apparently Delta had left the beaches and had moved inland to his personal command and had executed a few officers, seemingly at random.

OOC: Not sure who gets the next move.....

The beaches were in all comotion as the transports continued to drop off both troop and vehicle alike. Tens of thousands of Sentinels crowded the permiter around the LZ, waiting for the moment to move in and begin their attack run. As the hours passed, a gray cloud filled the distant horizon over the silent ocean. Damien's Flagship, the Mouth for War, cast an eerie shadow over the sky as it always did, it's supernatural aura effecting even the weather around it. A heavily armed transport debarked from the massive Flagship, and within a half hour it had made it's way to the beach.

The door dropped onto the wet sand and out stepped the fiery Lord Dreadfire clad in full battle atire. He had received his request from Delta to spare certain targets, and word had been sent to the Black Staff leader himself that the Sentinels were ready to being cleansing Crimmond of this 'Black Staff menace'. As The Destroyer walked up the sands towards the makeshift command post, dozens of tanks rolled out from their transports and began plowing up the beach towards the front lines. However, air support was almost non-existant save for a few attack choppers that were grounded. Whatever Dreadfire had in store for his air campaign remained a mystery to everyone except for the Warchiefs, who has landed at their designated landing zones. With Azrael and Brinks to his north and Vlad and Lucian to his south, Lord Damien and his most trusted Warchief Zander began rallying his men and prepared to move out with Damien.

The hours began to tick away, and the Sentinels grew impatient. Word had been sent again to Delta that the Sentinels were ready to being fighting, and the plan had bene laid out. All that was left now was a reply.

Offshore, the second, third, fourth, and fifth waves of Sentinels began landing on the beach, until the entire offensive force numbered almost a hundred thousand. With plenty more Sentinels waiting out at sea, Lord Damien took to the very front and drew his sword. Soon my children, soon you shall feed on the heathen Black Staff. Soon.....

Delta did not respond rightaway to Damien's messages, instead making preparations with his own forces and letting surveilance planes take pictures of Damien's flagship as it approached shore.

A half hour after the second message, Delta stoood before a camera. "Citizens of Crimmond, Garrisons of cities, armies on the move... i have an urgent message for you all, so I ask you to stop what you are doing and listen carefully." Replacing his image in the broadcast were pictures of the Mouth for War. "Automagfreek forces have landed on Crimmond soil. The ship you see here is Damien the Destroyer's personal ship. I hereby order all citizens near the coast to not oppose the Sentinals, should they enter your cities. You would be slaughtered. To the Garrisons and armies, I hereby issue orders to not fire on the Sentinals either. They are here, working with me, to remove from this nation a blight. A blight that I brought to power. The Black Staff's days of power are at an end... Crimmond shall be an Empire, once the cleansing is over. If you choose to fight for the Black Staff, you will die." He pauses, letting the populace absorb that. "Damien, I know you have your people watching, if you yourself are not. The word is given... unleash hell."

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

General Santiana sstared as the screen went to black. "No... Delta you fool." He muttered, stomping out of the tent and to the command truck. "Issue orders to fire upon any AMF forces and any Crimmond forces that try and stop us. Contact Skye, Needles(OOC: Bratislava), Krakow and Kaliningrad. Coordinate with the garrisons there to prepare for invasion!" The man just stared at him, then nodded. He went pale as he worked the controls and sent out the orders. Santiana's face betrayed no fear. He had trained it years ago. He suspected his feet were as pale as the young soldier's face, though.

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

The most suprising thing to happen, something even Delta didn't expect, was a Supremacy Class submarine to surface inside the fifth landing force as the third and foruth were landing. A simple message was sent to Damien As the Captian climbed out onto the hull of his sub and walked to the middle of the missile tubes, surveying the force around him, knowing full well that he could be sentencing himself and crew to death. "CSS Monitor to Dreadfire. Long live the Empire. Six more at sea, awaiting orders."

The sub caught the Sentinel landing forces off guard, and immediatly their guns trained upon the craft. Only when the order to stand down was given did they cease and desist, and coms then came in almost instantly from Lord Damien's forward position. I want you to take your subs and move towards the nearest Black Staff controlled military port. From there you are to commence a blockade on the port and destroy any hostile vessels that you encounter. I will then send a naval detachment and 10,000 Sentinels to forcibly bomb, shell, and storm the port. From there, it's up to us on the ground. Dreadfire out.

With the order given by Delta, Lord Damien swung the Relic's Sword high above his head, and the war drums sounded. Following the sounds of their deep bass percussion the Sentinels and their armored excorts took off in full bore into the Crimmond mainland, their orders clear. My children, the time has come for you to feel the sting of battle and taste victory yet again. But I regret to tell you that your wrath must be stayed in this conflict. We are here to remove a cancer from Crimmond, not butcher the loyal populace. Destroy the Black Staff, wipe out their settlements and pile the bodies high, but do not harm the innocent. Hearts and minds my children, let the Black Staff Sleep Now In The Fire!!! Dreadfire climbed ontop of a passing tank and began swinging his sword furiously over his head, and with all the air in his lungs he cried out FORWARD!!!!

The board had been set, and now finally the pieces were moving. After the call of Delta and Damien reached the ears of Damien's Warchiefs, the remaining Sentinels at the northern and southern checkpoints were deployed, leaving only a skeleton crew to defend while the next few waves began landing. To the south Vlad and Lucian began making preperations to begin the first attack upon the Black Staff legions, referred to by the two Warchiefs as the 'BS legions'. Their units moved quickly up the southern borders with great haste, swinging around in a wheeling formation as they approached the first Black Staff outpost.

In the north Azrael and the oldest Warchief in Automagfreek, General Brinks began deploying their forces accordingly only several miles north of Damien and Zander. The plan was to ride the northern flank until The Destroyer and Zander began engaging thier targets, then they were to break out of their formation and plow forward towards the northeast while the Black Staff situated around the center (several miles inland, mind you) began occupying themselves with Damien and Zander. Being the most numerically inferior force out of the 3 pairs of Warchiefs, Azrael and Brinks did have a large detachment of Death Dealers, more than the other four Warchiefs combined. Rumor began making it's way across the front lines that the The One Who Shall Remain Unnamed himself was moving out with his Death Dealers with the northern assult force.

Delta, Lord Dreadfire here. My forces have begun moving out rapidly and we request a list of targets. Air and naval support is on hold pending your wishes. I await your word.

OOC: Hey Crimm, do you have a map by any chance?

OOC: Crimmond is covers the dark green area of the map. All the normal cities are there, most with no name changes. The grey area is not Crimmond, but another nation's small annex of Baggera, including the city of Riga. They're, for the intents of this RP, neutral.
http://home.earthlink.net/~alpha_zero_usm/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/crimmond.gif

IC: Signaled back into the sub by another officer, the Captain waves once at the landing force and re-enters his ship. It vanishes below the waves and it moves out to sea, coded transmissions being sent presumably to the other subs.

----------

Delta was meanwhile informed by a pilot of the submarine 'incident' and looked at a map. "There are two cities they'd go after. Gdansk and Kaliningrad."

"Administrator, Damien is requesting a list of Targets of Oppurtunity." Delta picked up a clipboard and handed it to him. On it was what would be sent to Damien. The young man read it as he walked to teh command center. Gdansk, Skye(Warsaw), Needles(Bratislava), Vilinius, last known location of Czek Gaurd: the Belarussian-Ukrainian border near Homyel'. Any Crimmond force that blocks your path, excepting for the city of Myer(Lodz). Also included was a warning that the cities of Minsk and Prauge are abandoned because of terroristic use of nuclear devices in past years. The cities have no strategic value.

Delta looked at a colonel standing beside him. "We're located just east of Wroctaw. Is there any way we cn move against Needles while Dreadfire moves against the northern cities?"

"Yes, sir. I can start air attacks on the weapons plants there within the hour. Even without them or the Czeck Gaurd, the city is basicly a giant weapons depot. We'll loose many soldiers taking it and our fighters will have to go through a never ending stream of anti-aircraft fire."

"We can't leave such a powerhouse in enemy control. Start the attacks."

OOC: Sorry for not posting Crimm, my fuckin' computer froze when I was halfway done. :mad: New post should be up tomorrow.

OOC: Not a problem man. I know that feeling.

Quick Tag

Gdansk will be the first target. I want to fleets to wheel east and begin raining shells all across the coast and center of the city. Zander and myself will disembark momentarily and move towards the southern portion of the city and seal it off. From there, the remaining Warchiefs move their forces in accordance with our plans. Let's move men, make me proud.

Damien's orders were to the point, and literally seconds after finishing the breifing he jumped ontop of a passing tank and drew his sword. Waving the ancient blade furiously in the air, he commanded his numerically superior forces forward while Zander did likewise. Being only several miles away from Gdansk, the Sentinels would soon be upon them.

The Freek fleets off the coats began moving at full steam towards Gdansk, and as they began moving closer their massive deck guns exploded with life, raining 16" death into the belly of the Black Staff infested city. Missle frigates also sighted in their targets closer to the shores and begna launching a large volley of Tomahawk cuise missiles. Expecting the Black Staff to have formidable AA and anti-missile defenses, the cruise missiles were merely an attempt to exhaust their supplies. Furiously they fired and reloaded with great speed as they broke formation and began wheeling around to form a literal blockade of the harbor.

Meanwhile, armored units of every remaining Warchief began mobilizing and deploying to the specified areas on Damien's maps. Delta's intructions were clear, and the designated cities that were marked in green were not to be touched by the now fully mobilized Sentinel war machine. Word of the now spreading Sentinel units spread like wildfire across the Crimmond countrysdie, and the country as a whole began preparing to ride out the storm that was now beginning to fall.

At sea, the submarines were spreading along the coast, avoiding detection of both Gdansk and Kaliningrad's defenses. As soon as the AMF forces started bombardment of Gdansk, stealth wasn't needed by the subs. Anything they did would be unnoticed by the soldiers firing back with guns of equal size, though in far less quantities. Crimmond had never been invaded before, so the coast was amazingly sparesly defended, for a power as prominate as it was.

Out to sea, the submarines launched their missiles. Bursting from the water and blasting skywards, almost a dozen smashed into the city, some taking out guns, others airfields and some weapons depots. It sure did help to know exactly what you were aiming for...

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

Delta was meanwhile oblivious to most of this, not concerned in the least, knowing Damien was handling it. He was traveling with his army towards Needles. As the command truck stopped, Delta stepped out and could see it in the distance. And could see not the army protecting it... but the populace. "God dammit! The Czeck faction* has taken the city. Start bombardment. Wipe them out so we can enter."

WIthin minutes, the SP artillery began to open up on the nearly defenseless peopl, air units dropping anti-personal bombs, which sprayed hunderd square foot areas with nail like metal flechettes. Then the hundreds of Czeck's started to rush forward, hundreds more pouring out of the city. "Shit... Corporal! Get me a gun."

As the SP artillery backed away from the army, for protection, the tanks and APCs moved foreward, along with Delta's ground forces. Delta himself went into his command truck, stripped off his coat and hat, straping on some gernades and a shortsword. The Corporal arrived with a gun, a Golan Flechette Shotgun and ammo. Delta took the weapon and stepped oustide, not wearing the body armor of is soldiers, mearly the clothes he had on. He loaded in a drum of ammo and looked around him. "Hope you boys have the balls for this, because it's only the beggining!"

And then the first wave of Czeck's swarmed thedefensive lines in front of them.

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

"Sir! Gdansk is under Sentinal attack!"

Santiana slammed his fist down. "Send in the air squadrons. Take out whatever is attacking it. Move the army north, to Kaliningrad."

The man nodded and the General sat, armor clinking. "Dammit Delta... we could have beaten them back had you not done this. I'll see you get sent back to the Halls by the end of this..."

Four squads of ground attack planes streaked towards the City, only to see the fleet bombarding it. "Oh shit.... we're dead if we attack them!" "Then you die! Attack anyway!" "Yessir."

They dove in on the AMF fleet, 30mm cannons raining down with depleted uranium slugs. They expected the first pass to be the only one they'd get through clean.

tag

The DU rounds tore through the decks of 3 Freek destroyers and 1 missile frigate, wounding them to such and extent that they were no longer combat effective. The decks of the Carrier Triumph were torn to shreds, also rendering it totally useless to the dismay of Brink's right hand man. The Captain of Brink's smaller fleets immediatly turned control of the naval assult to his subordinate and proceeded to put his service pistol in his mouth. A cloud of gore and gray matter filled the air momentarily, for the Captain knew what would become of him for this failure.

Jets were then immediatly scrambled off the decks of the Carriers Excursion, Valiant, and Whirlwind to intercept the incoming fighter squads. The air was filled with clouds of flak, the trails of anti-aircraft missiles, and the literal ropes of CIWS fire as the planes took off into action. Whirlwind, this is Cyclone, come in Whirlwind. Enemy fighters at point 0,6,8 niner. Weapons going hot, watch the friendly fire. Over.

Various chatter filled the radio as the assorted attack squadrons broke their loose formation and began engaging their targets. A few Freek planes were scratched by the near absurd level of anti-air ordinance being spewed forth, but onward they flew into action. With increasing support from the remaining craft of the forward naval assult elements, the fighters in the air began doubling up on their targets due to their slight numbers advantage. Every passing minute saw another paunching of a new plane, and every passing minute meant greater Freek numbers. Using aggressive attack patterns and double team tactics, the Sentinels in the air began closing the gap between the planes and the shore slowly but surely, cutting them off from any support batteries on the land.

On the sea, the ships not concentrating on the aerial menace continued to fire deep into the heart of Gdansk and towards it's rear. The southern and eastern portions of the city were all but rubble now, with every bridge, road, trail, and rail line suspected to be destroyed thanks to the ever watchful eyes of the AMF and Crimmond satellites above. With Lord Damien, Zander, Azrael, and Brinks all closing in, the naval units stepped up their fire considerably. Their goal was to make the center a literal crater, deviod of both life and obsticle. The plan had been finalized, and it had been decided that Lord Dreadfire and Zander's numerically superior forces would begin the initial ground offensive against the city, then they would be replaced by Azrael and Brinks. Damien and Zander would then turn south and take care of anyone who managed to escape, all the meanwhile driving deeper into Crimmond territory.

The buzz of the air battle and the sing of naval guns continued on for many minutes, only to be interrupted in the distance by something much more sinister....the roar of 18" naval guns from the decks of the Cemetery Gate and the Death Rattle, the mammoth flagships of Brinks and Azrael respectfully. 1/3 of the total Freek naval presense had arrived, and in full force and wrath. 8 squadrons of fighters were already inbound, concentrating their fire on the planes that continued to harass and down Freek planes and ships.

Missile frigates and destroyers from the arriving fleets joined in the song, their guns and ordinance singing loudly to the beat of the war drums. The two flaships began firing directly at the shoreline with rocket assisted, high explosive shells. Massive fireballs erupted as the large warheads slammed into the sand and earth, creating huge clouds of dust and debris. As the shells continued to pour in, the first legions of Lord Damien made their presense known. With streaming banners atop their tanks and armored vehicles, the Sentinels moved forward until they were just shy of artillery range from the cities defenses. Though those in the city could probably not hear them, over a hundred thousand Sentinels under the command of 3 Warchiefs and The Destroyer himself began screaming and chanting into the air. Beating their chests, stomping their feet, and clashing their weapons together and on their amored escort, the ravenous hoard began making preperations to hit the city and crush it's defenses. The goal was to set an example to the Black Staff, and soon the lesson would begin.

"Three o clock! Two of them!" "God dammit I got one on my tail, someone get this bastard off me!" "Go for the deck!"

The squads were scattered across the sky, wingmen either having to breakaway or making mistakes and turning it into a free for all in the sky. WIth the commander's last order, all but a couple followed the order. Blasting out of the flak, they buzzed carrier and battleship alike. One unlucky plane flew by a battery as it fired. The pilot never knew what killed him.

Seven more were downed by Freek fighters, either hitting the sea or the crazy few who flew straight at the enemy ships as they died.

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

Popopopopopopopopop .... Popopopopopopopop. Delta crouched behind an APC killed by an RPG to the side as the Czeck's fired AK's and a few Browning type machine guns at them. "Go for cover... there!" He pointed and the soldier with him dove for the wall.

Delta steood and looked through the hole and out the other side, raising his shotgun and firing. Two enemy fell as Delta ran to another cover, two or three soldiers with him. He didn't count, as it wasn't important.They were winning this battle, easily. A few green soldiers were dead, killed by the hardened street fighters, but they were on a highway, not a city street. Cunning meant hiding where you could, not where it gave an advantage.

Clink-clink-clink. A gernade bounced towards Delta and he was about to deflect it when a corporal, the one who had armed him, grabbed it and dove on it. A second later, he was without a midsection. Delta smiled and moved on, firing as he went. A bullet struck his arm, but did little to slow him down in his state of mind.

OOC (mainly at AMF): If Mr Anselmo was reading this he would be flattered Im sure. ;)

OOC: *slaps head* Bah... forgot about the Gdansk military. Sorry...

IC: Inside the city, the civilians were ignoreing orders not to arm. Liberators or not, they were getting slaughtered inside the city, even with it's fortified shelters.

Side by side with Strike Marines, the militias of the city wait in the buildings and streets, armed with assault weapons and sidearms. The defensive guns of the city have gone silent for the most part, only two still firing into the fleet.

Offshore the missile subs showed they were still there by firing ICBM to the North East, most likely at Kaliningrad or perhaps inland.

--------

The only Crimmond surface force, the CSS Vladimir Carrier Group, is strangely not on alert at all, merely cruising past the South of Greece and heading toward Gibralter.

(OOC: Thought I'd just toss that in as a "you'd know this" thing)

The the pressing resistance on the ground and in the air, Lord Dreadfire sent word to his military council and to Delta that a direct assult into Gdansk would be very risky and costly. Delta, it appears that the Black Staff are rallying the civilian populace into taking up arms alongside them. All major roads and Black Staff controlled targets have been hit heavily by our ships, but now we fear that the Black Staff will not fall easily. I am going to set an example here Delta, an example to the people of Crimmond of what will happen if they side with this festering evil that is the Black Staff. Forgive me.

With a wave of his hand, his officers scrambled to the radios and barked the go code over the radio: Archangel. With that, the artillery crews and tank commanders began firing blindly into the city, engaging any target that was both visible and invisible. Out at sea, the Cemetary Gate and Death Rattle passed the word along to the smaller battleships and frigates in the fleets, ordering them to begin massive shelling of Gdansk from back to front. The plan had changed, and it was no longer about the liberation of Gdansk....but the total destruction of it. The Black Staff were not going down without a fight, and the civilians had ignored their orders to stay out of the conflict, so an example had to be set.

The massive and numerous squadrons of planes continued to triple and sometimes quadruple team the inbound Black Staff fighters, but as the word Archangel blard over the radio, over half of them broke off their attack and flew out of formation into Gdansk airspace. Firing their machine guns and launching missiles at anything that stood, their massive ordinance launch coupled with that of the ground and naval crew made the skies above Gdansk black as sack cloth.

Elsewhere in Crimmond, Vlad and Lucian's forces had begun moving swiftly through the countryside, but word of their movements spread even faster. The townsfolk knew that these two were notorious members of the Black Staff, and the fear that they instilled in the populace had not faded. Contact was few and far between, for they were still several days away from any major Black Staff controlled territory. After skimming the western border for several days, the two Warchiefs began spreading their forces out in a wide fan and began wheeling towards the center of the country.


Lord Damien, Administrator Delta, encounters have been scarce to none. Requesting list of available targets. We are still a day's drive away from any major city, and my men are thirsting for battle.

No response came from Delta to either request, but reports that Needles was under heavy assault would explain that.

Diving into an alley, Delta and the soldiers following him stopped to rest. The battle was in their favor so far and a few of the veteran commanders knew the city well, from the numerous problems the area had encountered. "Allright, boys and girls... you've done good so far now we need to finish the job and either take those weapon plants or blow them to hell. So lets go and see what we can do." With that, he reloaded his gun and stepped out into the street, running forward down the block, with two or three other platoons.

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

Someone did answer the calls though. Two someones.

This is General Santiana of the Czeck Gaurd contacting the forces in the west. You are hereby ordered to halt immediatly and disarm or be destroyed. You have three hours to comply.

As the message was sent, Santiana's forces stopped their march to Kaliningrad and turned to the west, the battle hardened force moving to cross the nation before Damien could cut them off.

The second someone stood in one of the reinforced buildings of Myer. General Meridius. He stared out at the rain, which would burn and eat at anything it touched, thanks to the polution the largest Crimmond city produced. All AMF forces. Contact with the Administrator's force has been severed. Therefore... I, General Maximus Decimus Meridius, am assuming temorary command of the Crimmond military and am assuming the rank of General of the Army as per the orders of Lady Lara Tian, heir to the throne of Crimmond. You have the liberty to attack any major city that resists you. The list sent to Damien is being forwarded to you as we speak. If you wish air support, you need only ask.

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Gdansk was a living hell, to say the least. Not only was their invading forces and bombardment... but the sun was blocked out and planes fell from the sky and slammed into buildings and streets, starting countles fires that no one was bothering to control.

The populace suddenly remembered the stories of Total War in other nations and now they realized what was happening. They were fodder for the falmes of war Dreadfire was unleashing. So they did what any sane person would do. They ran scraming away from the shore... trying to get through the bombardment to safety. The military also were running.

Straight towards Damien. The thousand men and women that were Gdank's garrison charged out of the city and right for the man who gave the order. They knew that today was probably the last they'd see, but they'd go out fighting. Firing everything from pistols to rifles to small missile packs and rockets, the defenders ran towards their destiny, the sreams of rage, fear and pain all merging into a wraith's wail.

Damien smiled as he saw the mass cahrge come towards him, and a slight glimmer could be seen in his eye. He drew the Relic's Sword and held it high over his head, signaling his Sentinels to prepare for a charge. He ordered his Death Dealers to drop into the prone position and begin firing thier .50 machine guns towards the flanks of the incoming hoard. His Sentinel Stalkers also joined in with the Death Dealters, laying down low and utilizing cover while slowly sniping at the enemy.

As the gunfire erupted, Lord Dreadfire ordered his tanks and artillery to reposition and concentrate fire on the rear of their line. Within seconds his M1A2's were firing shell after shell into the rear of the charging ranks, and also raining more /50 fire upon them. Damien let the charge get closer, and as it did he then ordered mortar and rocket fire directly into their center. The field was a plume of black smoke as more and more ordinance exploded in a fury, and with the hoard now getting dangerously close, Lord Damien took up his rifle and ordered his Sentinels forward.

Under massive supporting fire from his now moving tanks and light armored vehicles, and from his snipers and machine gun emplacements, the Sentinels emerged and charged over the shallow hill that seperated them and the city of Gdansk. Their SBP-90 rifles firing on fully automatic, Lord Damien's personal legion of 8,624 Sentinels ran full force across the grassy fields towards their targets. Damien put his second and numerically superior force of some 15,000 on alert, all the meanwhile ordering the forces of Zander and Azrael forward. Brinks was to be reassigned to another conflict outside of the Crimmond war that required his services.

The air battle over the waters of Gdansk and the city itself was fierce. With legions of AMF fighters flying headlong intom Gdansk's defenses spewing 30mm fire and dropping large amounts of incendiary and cluster munitions on any target that presented itself. With ever increasing support from the offshore fleets, Gdansk was literally hell on Earth. With the Cemetery Gate firing it's last few vollies of 18" fire into the heart of Gdansk, the remaining ships in the fleets stepped up their fire to compensate.

With Black Staff troops visibly retreating, Damien ordered a small landing force of several thousand Sentinels to deploy to the near abandoned beach of Gdansk. With destroyers and missile frigates continuing to fire at the Black Staff fighters that remained in the sky, the transports moved forward under massive supportive fire. As they neared the shore the transports opened up with a series of 60mm high explosive mortar fire across the far end of the beach. With mere seconds left until the doors flew down, large amounts of smoke grenades were launched all over the beach, forming a very large white smoke screen that mixed itself eerily with the black smoke of exploded ordinance.

The first doors flew down on the transport ships, and thundering out onto the chaoitc beaches of Gdansk the Sentinels did come. Screaming and raging forward with seemingly no concern for taking cover, although supported greatly by close in fire from the naval vessels and by passing aircraft, the Sentinels moved forward with orders to destroy anything that is not Sentinel.

Bullets slammed into brick and cement, glass and metal, flesh and bone. Rockets took out floors of buildings and vehicles. Blades slashed arteries and pierced organs. Voices were unheard over the din of gunfire, explosions and the screams of the dying.

A private pushed the dead body of a rebel away from him and coughed through the smoke, looking foran ally he could rely on to keep him alive. Instead, he stared in disbelief as Delta stood on a dead tank, one marked with a Czeck flag, unloading his shotgun at the enemy, looking possesed and laughing. Laughing.

Needles was effectivly neutralized, the weapon plants in sight and under attack. After they were gone, the army had no reason to stay at the border city. They could turn to the east again and swing north towards Santiana.

Gdansk had never been decimated, not even during the Polish civil war that founded Crimmond. Now it was red with the blood of tens of thousands and lt by the flames of fires that couldn't be controlled even if any had bothered to try. The pilots sent to fight Damien's force were all dead, the last planes crashing into the sea. The last, desperate, attack had ailed miserably and a few still survived. Most were smart enough to act dead though and just pray that the Sentinals and Death Dealers moved into the city and let thm escape this hell alive.

Silence had befallen the countryside, and the great dust cloud had settled. In the months since the fall of Gdansk, AMF forces had gradually been pulled out of the now forgotten battle in Crimmond. Operation: Brimstone and now the civil conflict in AMF itself had taken priority over the destruction of the Black Staff....but through it all one man remained. Zander had still been stationed there, and with his quarter million Sentinels he had slowly but surely made a painstaking trek across the countryside.

With his supplied low and moral even lower, Zander's quest had seemed all but in vain. Communications with Delta had been scare and short, and with things turning worse in Automagfreek, Zander decided that the time had come for one last offensive. Gathering as much fuel and ammo as he possibly could, his forces began going city to city, house to house in seatch of the Black Staff and their supporters. Those who were found were gunned down mercilessly and their bodies put on display.

Word began to spread again of the growing offensive, and again the war against the Black Staff made headline news. Zanders forces made a break for the capitol as their supplies reached critical levels, and he began charting out which depots he needed to plunder.

Get on the horn to Delta, tell him the Freeks have not lost heart. We set a course for the main Black Staff camp, and we hit them by sunrise.

http://67.18.37.14/40/9/upload/p972409.jpg
Zander
-Warchief of AMF Forces-

The city of Needles was decimated and Delta was allready well away from the city, travelling up through the nation. He had been observing the pullout from his army, slamming through a few towns not loyal to him.

While the politicians were moving on without him, Delta was at home in battle. As soon as the incoming message came through, Delta answered. "Warriors never lose heart, when on a battlefield. Let no one survive..."

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Santiana couldn't believe his eyes. The Black Staff was dcimated. He was caught between two armies and his own forces...explosions raicked the camp earlier in the day. A fuel depot going up. Sabotage from Imperialists was taking it's toll.

So he shouted orders at all in the camp. "We have but hours. I want every man and brute in this camp on teh offensive against both forces, now! We will not be routed like cowards, we will meet them and we will either defeat them in the greatest battle I have ever known of, or die at their blades and their bullets. If you find yourself in a green meadow, walking among the daisies and roses, don't fear. Because you are allready dead. What we do today will be heard throughout history. Dissmissed!"

+tag+

The time for blood and blades had come, and amidst a hail of gunfire the Sentinels did come. The last main outpost of the Black Staff was finally under siege, and without regard for his own safety Zander surged forth in the largest massed armor and infantry assult of the campaign. Ever last round of ammunition had been passed, and every last drop of fuel had been poured. There would be no turning back, for their would either be total victory, or death.

The only units that paused were the field atrillery crews, and even though they themselves were within firing range of the Black Staff, they hastily set up their towed howitzers and began a massive artillery campaign, and the standing order was to spend every last round. With the tank crews moving in first to support the infantry, Zander began spreading his Sentinels out and placing large hosts of them in strategic places where the enemy was likely to break.

Large pockets of Sentinels began surging forth in other areas, and the trumpets blared loud and the banners flew high in the breeze. Send them into the abyss my brothers! Valhalla will not see a Sentinel at it's doors on this day!

Zander valiantly charged forth alongside his Sentinels as if he were one of them, firing his rifle at any close range targets that presented themselves. No further word had been sent to Delta, for Zander knew that with the coming of this charge, it would be all or nothing.

As the Freeks took to the field, the army and a half of Delta was still a few miles away, delayed by a bottleneck at an bridge. Those who got across wanted to press on, but to do so would be stupid. It had to be a unified attack, not a dozen at a time, that would be easily killed.

Delta was crossing on top of a tank. It was a copy of the German Leopard 2 battletank and standing on top with an AK series assault rifle, the man and beast was certainly a thing to behold as the army crossed over and through the river. His clothes were stained in blood. some his, some others. He didn't even notice. He was too busy.

-------

Santiana looked out at the Freeks. "Unleash hell! FIght hand to hand if you have to!" he shouted, picking up his sniper rifle and aiming, firing into the advancing force several times. If it didn't kill, it would slow someone down a good portion. Unfortunately, he was only one of three snipers in the force, so the odds of such tactics being of use were slim.

Artillery was sparse. Apparently most was lost in the cities. What was there was lobbing gas at the artillery of the enemy. It was gas that conventyional masks didn't prtect against and induced vomiting. The next volley was mustard gas, attempting to catch the enemy with their masks off. The fact that such weapons were used showed how desperate they really were.

But down on the field, where Zander was, the sentinals were met by the armored assault marines. One super soldoer against another, the Marines firing every weapon they had, from sidearms to RPGs to rifles at the charge. They took casualties, teh front ranks slumping to the ground, those that could still fire doing so though. The conscripts were taking the worst, as they had the least armor and the worst field position. Charging the force head on, with bayonets on their rifles.