NationStates Jolt Archive

Radio Broadcast, Capital Island, Orinon Islands.
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In house, village halls, and city slums, people crowded around radio's and wireless boxes, listening to a message unlike any they had heard...

For years, the CFUS have ruled over us. Their corrupt governor has driven us into the dirt, stripped us of our pride! They stole our land out from under us, forced us to give them our wheat, our meat, our livelihoods! Well I say never again! Never again, shall we be oppress! Never again, shall we be governed by some corrupt official! Never again, shall we be ruled by one that isn't our own!! Take arms, my brothers! Cast out those who lord over us! Show them what they have created! Let them reap what they have sown! We will have our land! We will have our food, our livelihoods! We will have our land! And we shall have our PRIDE!!!!
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All through the streets of New Meridian City, a cry went up. The cities police and guards got little warning before a crowd of people, numbering in the 1000's ran them down. Marching on foot, driving along in cars that they either owned or had stolen, wielding everything from pitchforks to hunting rifles to, rather shockingly, an old World War 2 bazooka, they marched towards the office of the governor of their islands, the one who had drove them to breaking point. And at their head were two people. One was Marcus Cloudao, the de facto leader of the islands native people, a once proud race, now driven into the dirt like animals. And the second, carrying a rifle, hair flicking in the wind, was Lasin Sergei, the last of the royal family of the CFUS. His family had fled the CFUS, and hidden in the islands, only reappearing when the Resistance, a group fighting the CFUS's rule, happened on them. He now lead the crowds chant:"NEVER AGAIN!! NEVER AGAIN!!"

bam bam bam bam bam bam i fire shots at you

Congress of Soviets, CFUS 13 April 1962

The Commonwealth was shocked by the sudden revolt in the Orinon Islands. Newscasts showed the same scenes again and again, the people talking of oppression and revolting against the governor. In session, the Congress was taking the matter seriously, and the Politburo discussed possible reactions in their private cloister.

"Our military is ill-equipped for a military action such as this," said one member.

"We do have a task force near the islands, it would simply be a matter of changing their task orders."

"It is not that simple, the entire Congress must vote for military action. Is it so serious a matter?" asked one.

"There are reports of factions forming in the Defense Force garrison on the island. Some are remaining loyal to our officials, but others are defecting to these rebels..." cited another.

The debate continued as the Congress got ready for the most important vote it would have since it's founding.

Orinon Islands, Governor's Mansion

Military with full combat gear and AK-47s were posted around the residence, while riot police made a cordon on the streets, blocking the crowds 50 feet from the mansion's grounds. They had even placed their cars as barricades, lest they themselves be overrun. Inside the mansion, Governor Dagget continued to argue his case with the Secretary of State; that he needed nothing less than a full military mission to suppress the violent rebels.

The crowd continued to grow as more people arrived, chanting at the top of their lungs. Meanwhile, on Parasidd Island, a group of teenagers set the CFUS military barracks on fire, through use of Molotov cocktails. At the Governor's Mansion, the crowd grew angrier and angrier, tossing rocks at the riot police. After a while, Lasin jumped onto one of the cars, and shouted:"You think your weapons can stop us?! You can't stop change! YOU CAN'T STOP THE FUTURE!!"
And with that cry, he shouldered his rifle, and fired on the nearest shoulder. The crowd followed suit, either by throwing anything from pitchforks to Molotov cocktails at the riot police, or by firing their weapons at the shoulders.

ooc: soldiers, not shoulders, friend.

ic:

Despite no concrete commands to do so, the military and police reacted as only they could. The ROE was obvious that they could use force to defend themselves. Automatic rifle fire tore into the crowds as the soldiers returned fire. Their Jeeps, with mounted .50 caliber machine-guns were turned on the crowd, ready to let loose if the crowd surged passed the cordon.


Congress of Soviets, CFUS

"They've opened fire on the troops, and burned down the barracls on Parasidd Island," briefed General Michailev, the Chief of Staff.

"Order the Task Force into the area, and have them evacuate the Governor onboard."


FSS Nikolai Kuznetsov CV-32

The Freya-class carrier was a relic, an old hold-over from the Second World War, but it was a strong and proud ship. Though her pride was short-lived, the new Frigga-class would soon come online and mothball the ships entirely. But they had some of the old glory in them still. A pair of A-4 Skyhawks were preparing for launch, while a group of Mi-8 helicopters were readied on the nearby amphibious vessel, FSS Valiant. Inside the helicopters, Marines were preparing to secure the governor's mansion, retrieve the governor, and hold ground long enough to destroy important documents. Within moments, the fighters launched, armed with bombs and an extra set of gunpods for ground attack capability.

OOC: *facepalm* I has bad english skills :/

"MEN!! I NEED A GAP IN THIS BARRICADE!!" shouted Marcus, stepping out the way as two men rushed forward, carrying the bazooka in their arms. They then quickly ducked, rather haphazardly readied it, then pointed it at the nearest Jeep and fired. The rocket flew straight into the Jeep, destroying it and blowing any soldiers nearby, as well as rioters, off their feet. The crowd roared, then surged forward while throwing Molotovs ands rocks and firing any weapons they had. One molotov, somewhat off course, found itself heading for another Jeep and its unfortunate gunner. Any soldiers in the way of the crowd would realise that, no matter how many of them fell, the crowd wasn't going to stop until they had what they wanted.

From overhead, the roar of jet engines and helicopter rotors grew louder. Four Mi-8's rose over the horizon, heading for the mansion grounds. The remaining police and soldiers had retreated behind the stone walls of the fence, firing back into the crowd, unloading into the surging mass. The helicopters held their station, not wanting to land as the crowd surged. With authorization, the jets came in low and fast, parallel to the line of defense. Both fighters strafed the ground, firing on the crowd closest to the wall with their dual-mounted gunpods, their two-second burst loosing more than 200 rounds each. Door-mounted gunners of the helicopters readied themselves as the Marines disembarked, heading into the mansion to evacuate the governor and his staff. The soldiers began to retreat as well, as Mi-6 helicopters flew in to recover them.

"BASTARDS!!! YOUR A BUNCH OF COWARDS!!!" shouted Marcus, firing at the retreating soldiers. Though the crowd wanted to move forward, Lasin held them back, not wanting them to be cut down by the jet fighters above.

The jets circled around, holding fire as the lead noticed the crowd had stopped its surge forward. They banked into a wide arch, keeping overwatch of the situation.

Onboard the helicopter, the governor was ushered inside, along with his personnel. Marines piled in after, though one squad stayed behind, faithfully retrieving the Commonwealth (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Flag_of_the_Soviet_Union.svg) flag flying proudly in the breeze.

As the evacuation was underway, an E-1 Tracer was readied on the deck of the Kuznetsov, ready to provide early-warning and control functions to the aircraft and ground forces still operating in the area. Remaining ground forces were mobilizing north of New Meridian, setting up a defensive position as they awaited reinforcements.

"RUN YOU MOTHERS!!!" shouted Lasin as the helicopter flew away. The crowd then promptly busted down the gate, and rushed towards the mansion, shouting their victory. All through the islands, islanders rioted in the streets, chasing any and all CFUS officials and civilians out of their homes.

Act of the Supreme Soviet of the Commonwealth of Free United States

In Congress, 14 April 1962

WHEREAS,
The territory known as the Orinon Islands is agreed to be in a state of insurrection, overthrowing the lawful authority of a duly-appointed Governor of the Soviet,

STATING,
That such insurrection and violence towards the Motherland will not be tolerated, and in keeping with the desire to maintain domestic tranquility-that all necessary measure should and shall be taken to ensure such tranquility,

ITERATING,
That private citizens of the Commonwealth-those having no obligation for, or connection with, the lawful government of the Governance-having been threatened with violence, uprooted and forced from their domiciles and livelihood under such threat of violence and terrorized in their own homes by those supposedly known as their neighbors.

IT SHALL BE,
The conclusion of the Congress, in joint session with the Council of Ministers, to declare the islands in rebellion against lawful authority, from which said rebellious elements claim no legal standing, that ALL MEANS be taken to secure Commonwealth civilian populations from further violence and terrorism, a state of MARTIAL LAW is declared on the whole of the Orinon Isles, and all trade, incoming and outgoing, shall be blockaded to the fullest extent. That any foreign power giving aid and comfort to those in rebellion shall be treated as an aggressive act towards the Commonwealth and will be met with a full retaliatory response. All necessary power to defeat this rebellion, including the use of military force, is authorized.

signed,
Sergei Rochenko
President of the Supreme Soviet

Voted by majority: 243-12-9

"Thats bullshit!!" shouted Marcus as he heard a news broadcast."Lawful authority my ass! That governor bastard was driving us to death!"
"What did you expect from a bunch of commie bastards?" said Lasin, shaking his head."They drove my family out of the damn country, remember?"
"Yes, friend, I do. But how are we supposed to fight off something like this?" asked Marcus."We don't even have a single damn tank and barely enough guns for 400 people."
"Surprise got us this far. Lets keep going with it," said Lasin, before look out of the window in the room that they were standing in at the governors mansion. Turning around, he looked at the map of the islands on the wall. Looking at Capital Island on the map, which had a grouping of red pins north of New Meridian.
"Is there any native tribes in that area?" asked Lasin, pointing at the area around the pins.
"3 if I remember correctly. Two of which are quite sizeable. Wait...If we get them to attack those bastards at night..."said Marcus.
"Then we have got them. Those natives will rip them to pieces before they even wake up properly,"said Lasin, putting on a evil grin."Make it happen my friend. I will stay and sort through whats left of the mansion."

With the order given, the 3rd MEB (Marine Expeditionary Brigade) was being unloaded, its materiel landing at the coast to the west of New Meridian. The objective was to meet up with the remaining GDA troops and begin their pacification orders.

Aircraft streaked over the city constantly, numerous A-4's along with F-8 Crusaders from the naval vessels. On a small, unpopulated shoal, the Orinon Air Base was on full alert. Rows of MiG-15 fighters were readied for immediate action, and a pair of Tu-95 'Bear' bombers were rolling out, preparing to launch air interdiction strikes against the rebels.

2:43am, 15 April 1962

Area north of New Meridian...
------------------------------

Native tribes are nasty things. One second they could be friendly, the next they are mounting your head on a spike. The only reason that they didn't kill anyone and everyone who came onto their land was that their land had be stolen by the CFUS when they first arrived. Now, the tribes were going to fight back. As most of the soldiers slept in their tents, about 150 native men were silently sneaking towards the camp. Whenever they saw a guard they disposed of him in a variety of ways. When they had managed to get inside the camp, they began to flit between the tents, killing anyone asleep inside.

One soldier heard something rustling in his tent. He opened his eyes to see one of the blasted Natives poised over him, ready to strike. He ducked out of his cot, avoiding a fatal blow as he reached for his pistol. The soldier fumbled with it for a few seconds, dodging more attacks as he unholstered the weapon and fired, the shot ringing like a thunderclap. Immediately, those in his tent were awake, and an NCO with better perception than them began to rally them together, assigning positions and for the soldiers to ready their weapons.

The same had already occurred in other tents scattered around the base. Whistles were blown to rouse the rest of the troops as they moved back into the center of the base, using the positioned gun emplacements and tanks for cover. The soldiers were still scatterbrained and confused, but they had a central area to convene and defend.

The natives heard the gunshot, and abandoned their stealth, opting to instead rush any and all guards they saw, staying low until they could pounce on them. Meanwhile, a group of natives began to use bows and arrows, firing them over the tents into the centre of the camp.

"Natives?" General Khrushchev asked. His transport had landed at Orinon Air Base, along with the GDA's 3rd Army. He was being briefed as he awaited to reinforce the Marine forces.

"Yes, quite dangerous," the Governor said, "My police forces were always harrassed...civilians feared traveling far into the wilderness," he explained.

"Damnit, just what we don't need," the brusque general stated. "Is there a way to contact these people?"

"Not really," the Governor continued. "They refuse to listen to us; turning away from any assistance we offer."

"I'll have the Marine forces move on ahead, with A-4's running strafes, along with F-8's," the General continued. "Give me locations of their operational areas, along with the operational areas of the rebels," he concluded.

"Right away," said a subordinate.

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

A pair of A-4's, which was in the area, pulled in, strafing the soldiers and their attackers , their engines lighting up the night in a bright streak.

The Natives dived to the ground as the jets flew overhead, trying to avoid the fire from them. Meanwhile, in the centre of the camp, a group of soldiers stood together, talking. After a few minutes, they turned, walked into the edge of the central area, loaded their rifles, then turned and fired on their so-called comrades. One of them shouted: "We are not your slaves!!!"

"Bolzhe moi!" a fellow soldier commented, "Damned Orinons!" he climbed onto a tank, commandeering the .50 machine gun onboard. He began to open up on the rebellious squad.

Meanwhile, the most-senior officer, a young 2nd Lieutenant, began to radio headquarters with the situation.

Orinon Air Base

Surveying the new outcome of the attack on the GDA base, the General was furious.

"What idiot decided to conscript Orinon's into our forces?" he demanded, rolling his eyes as the Governor came forward. How I wish I could kill him and blame the Orinons... He turned to his subordinate, "Tell them to-"

"Sir," a messenger interrupted, "There's been a change in the situation; the ground commander has declared broken arrow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NK7sgZ3oh7g)..."

"And it just gets worse," the General concluded.


From the airbase, the bombers and fighters took off, heading for the Orinon main island. The A-4's and F-8's returned, this time with napalm and 500 lb bombs, leveling whole swaths of forest and vegetation in their wake. From the Kuznetsov, more attack aircraft were readied for launch, the A-4's loaded with napalm and bombs. For fire support, the aircraft were being directed by the E-1 Tracer, as well as ground spotters.

The Natives, having done their job, malted back into the mountains and forests, taking with them about half of the rebel soldiers, the other half gunned down.

"Dirty bastards," said Marcus, as he saw a smoke tower on the horizon.
"What did you expect, them to surrender calmly?" said Lasin, going through a pile of half burnt papers, then pulling out a piece of paper, only to throw it away.
"What are you looking for, anyway?" asked Marcus.
"Locations of bunkers or arms caches on the islands," replied Lasin.

Orinon Air Base

As the battle ebbed and faded off into the forests, the General had other priorities. There were two Civil Defense bases on the main island, and both contained large caches of arms and supplies. Already, units of the 3rd Army were securing these caches, transporting them in armed convoys towards rallying points. These points were heavily fortified and secured, protected by both aerial cover and long-range artillery pieces. Tu-95 bombers were now launching interdiction attacks on the mountain passes where Intelligence had reported movement of the Rebels and Natives.

ooc: orinon, do u have im so we can plan better? or send me a pm.

"Here we go,"said Lasin, showing Marcus a piece of half burnt paper.
"'Locations of arms caches on the Orinon Islands'....Thats interesting,"said Marcus, deep in thought.
"And they are most likely well guarded by now. It'll be suicide to attack them now,"said Lasin, marking the locations of said arms caches on the map.
"OK. I think its time for another broadcast,"said Marcus, walking out of the room and heading for his makeshift radio station.

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

Yesterday we rebelled against a corrupt governor. Today, we are fighting against a force more powerful, more well armed, and more numerous then us. I fear that we may not be able to survive this. To survive, we need the men and women of the Orinon Islands to support us. To believe in us. To believe in themselves!

Convoys had reached the cities, with tanks and trucks moving soldiers into the urban areas to secure them. A Jeep roved through neighborhoods, a soldier repeating the same message on the bullhorn.

A military curfew is now in effect. Anyone caught outside after 1900 hours or 7 o'clock PM will be arrested and detained. The soldiers are here to help you. Return to your homes; you will be safe there. A military curfew is now in effect-

Most people looked on as the convoys past through their cities. Many people looked on in disgust, evidently unhappy.

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

Even as i speak, their troops come to retake what they think is theirs, and theirs alone. What they don't realise is that this land, these islands, is ours, and ours alone!

OOC: ka-BUMP

The E-1 Tracer was intercepting all of the Rebel broadcasts. It relayed the information of these broadcasts to the GHQ at Orinon Air Base. Smaller electronic planes were now operating, there sensors trying to triangulate the source of the transmissions. Once an area was designated 'hot' the order was given for the Tu-95 bombers to come in, dropping their payload. The problem was that the planes could only triangulate within a 300 square-meter area, leaving a large swath of land as a target.

New Meridian City Square......

The two teenagers stood next to the flagpole, hands in their pockets. As they watched a convoy go past, one of them muttered something to the other. Nodding, the other teen took off his backpack and opened it up. Meanwhile, the other quickly pulled the CFUS flag down the flagpole and cut it down, then poured a small bottle of gasoline on it. The other teen then attached another flag to the rope on the flagpole, then hoisted it up. He then produced a lighter and set the gasoline on the CFUS flag alight.

OOC: http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/8609/orinonflag.png pic of the new flag.

New Meridian City Square......

The two teenagers stood next to the flagpole, hands in their pockets. As they watched a convoy go past, one of them muttered something to the other. Nodding, the other teen took off his backpack and opened it up. Meanwhile, the other quickly pulled the CFUS flag down the flagpole and cut it down, then poured a small bottle of gasoline on it. The other teen then attached another flag to the rope on the flagpole, then hoisted it up. He then produced a lighter and set the gasoline on the CFUS flag alight.

OOC: http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/8609/orinonflag.png pic of the new flag.
ooc: nice

ic:

A passing patrol noticed the flag raising, the Jeep skidding to a stop as the soldiers poured out, cornering the youths.

"You're coming with us," the leader said, as two soldiers grabbed one teen each. They hauled them away, with one soldier cutting the rope and dragging the flag back down, stomping on it before placing it on top of the blazing CFUS flag.

"LEAVE THEM ALONE!" shouted a woman, tossing a rock at the soldiers.
"YEAH!" shouted a small group of people on the side walk, who began tossing everything from rocks to tomatoes to a half empty bottle of vodka at the soldiers. Meanwhile, a woman ran up to the burning flags and rescued the Orinon flag before it burnt beyond repair, leaving the CFUS flag to burn.

OOC: why thank you. it took me five minutes to make XD

ooc: i know, i was there when u made it :P

ic:

The free-handed soldiers leveled their rifles, one firing a burst over their heads.

"There's a curfew, go back to your homes!" he shouted. Another Jeep was coming to assist them.

"FUCK YOU AND YOUR CURFEW!!!" was the general reply to the order. The group grew bigger, as the rioters and rebels arrived at the scene.

One soldier lifted a small grenade from his vest, lobbing it into the crowd. Already the situation had been reported, and an APC was headed towards the area. The grenade was a stun grenade, and exploded in the crowd, shocking those nearby. The soldiers regrouped, each leveling their rifles-bayonet equipped-and prepared for the worst.

Suddenly a shot rang out from a building in the square. A sniper. The shot impacted with the head of one of the soldiers. Before the soldiers had time to react, another shot rang out, but from the other side of the square. The crowd, pissed about the stun grenade, became extremely violent, charging at the Jeeps. Some of the crowd members had rifles, which they fired, while others produced molotovs and started to toss them.

"Looks like another battle,"said Lasin, listening to the faint gunshots in the distance.
"I know. Lets head there,"said Marcus, grabbing his rifle and walking out the mansion doors, where he shouted:"Lets go!"
Lasin, meanwhile, stayed behind. He looked around, then headed towards Marcus's broadcast station.

Suddenly a shot rang out from a building in the square. A sniper. The shot impacted with the head of one of the soldiers. Before the soldiers had time to react, another shot rang out, but from the other side of the square. The crowd, pissed about the stun grenade, became extremely violent, charging at the Jeeps. Some of the crowd members had rifles, which they fired, while others produced molotovs and started to toss them.

"Looks like another battle,"said Lasin, listening to the faint gunshots in the distance.
"I know. Lets head there,"said Marcus, grabbing his rifle and walking out the mansion doors, where he shouted:"Lets go!"
Lasin, meanwhile, stayed behind. He looked around, then headed towards Marcus's broadcast station.
The soldiers wasted no time in returning fire, their rifles firing on full automatic. From the street corner over the next block, the APC was rolling forward, it's turreted .50 cal opening up, tearing into the crowd. There were already additional units on the way.

Most of the crowd ran when they started firing. Those who were left were wearing a smaller version of the flag that had been flying just moments before on their left arms. They were rebels and they were willing to die to free the islands. Armed with rifles and molotovs, they fired on the patrols. Meanwhile, the snipers quickly dispatched of the turret gunners.

From the adjoining street, backup in the form of a pair of T-62 tanks rolled through the streets. Their commanders noticed the sniper fire, and soon, the turrets were pivoting, the barrels rising to zero in on the buildings. The tanks fired, lifting dust and dirt into the air from the concussion of their blast, the explosive rounds demolishing the buildings-along with the sniper nests they housed.

There was a loud banging on the sides of the tanks as Marcus and his rebels arrived and climbed on top of them.
"HEY! ANOTHER GOT A CAN OPENER?!" shouted Marcus, trying to open up the hatch on the tank he was on.

Troop transports behind the tanks disgourged their soldiers. They noticed the rebels attacking their tanks, the turrets moving swiftly to brush them off. They opened fire, knowing that if the tanks were gone, so were they. A whistling sound was heard overhead, and two more buildings were destroyed, the victims of incoming artillery fire. Already, the sound of helicopters and jets could be heard. The Commonwealth had found the enemy and wasn't about to let go.

As the troops fired on them, the rebels swarmed on them. No amount of firepower could stop a few hundred angry rebels and rioters.

As the troops fired on them, the rebels swarmed on them. No amount of firepower could stop a few hundred angry rebels and rioters.
Orinon Air Base

"That tears it...give the order," the General said sternly.

"Er...yes, comrade-general," his subordinate replied.


No one knew, but the General had a scorched-eath policy for the outcome of the rebellion. As the soldiers lost ground, scores of Tu-95's were rolling off the runways, laden with 1,000 and 2,000 lb bombs. Fighters took off with bombs on their undercarriage as the artillery battalions set up for more barrages. If it meant leveling the city, the GDA would route the rebel fighters.

"shit,"said Marcus, hearing the distant roar of planes coming their way.
"KILL WHAT YOUR FIGHTING, THEN GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!!!" he shouted, firing his rilfe a few more times before breaking off and heading back to the mansion. The rebels heard him, finishing off their fights then disappearing into the countryside, the slums, or the housing areas.

ooc: um, look up 'scorched earth'

ic:

The bombers weren't due to arrive for another 30 minutes at most, flying from the airbase. The artillery answered first, shells rocking the city in concentrated volleys of fire. Retreating forces threw thermite and phosphorous grenades into buildings, igniting them.

OOC: If you can't have it, burn it?

OOC: If you can't have it, burn it?
ooc: pretty much

OOC: great.

Lasin watched from the broadcast room in the mansion.
"No...This has to end," he said, flicking on the radio equipment onto the first CFUS channel he could think of and sitting down...

My name is Lasin Sergei. I am the last member of the family that used to rule what would become the CFUS. My family fled to these islands to make a new life. For most of my family, they found only death, through either disease or accidents. In my almost 4 years, I have seen the Islands go from a paradise to a place people avoid. The reason for this? The Governor. He has driven the people here into the dirt! He has taken almost all the food and produce that the farmers grow. He taxed us to death, he even put a tax on medicine! Those slums in New Meridian were not there a few years ago! Now, New Meridian is going to burn. I can see the smoke from here. Think of the people in the city. Those who can't run away or fight back. Ever stopped to think about them? Are you and your troops willing to destroy the homes of and maybe even kill those who are either too young or too weak to fight back?

"Lasin is there?" the General asked, listening to the broadcast. "Maybe this will finally wipe of that Enemy of the People once and for all."

Over the city, the Bear bombers had reached their assigned targets, the bomb bay doors opening as their payload dropped.


Meridian City, CFUS

"He initiated a what?!" demanded the Politburo member. "We've gotta stop this wanton violence...he's making it worse!"

"Lasin is there. Sergei XII is enough of a reason to act aggressively," replied another.

"And what of his claims?"

"What of them? That mudak would say anything to save himself-just like his *father."


*Vladimir XII-the last czar.

Lasin looked out the window and saw the explosions. Turning back to the braodcast, he started to shout....

Are you all so cowardly that you are going to murder old men and women?! Murder wife's and their children?! If you did, you would be worse then those you seek to destroy!!

To: General Vladislav Kruschev, 3rd Ground Defense Army, Commanding
Fr: Main Defense Directorate, Meridian City, CFUS

>>
You are hereby ordered to halt the offensive in New Meridian City, Orinon and to minimalize continued aggression and damage to civilian structures. Care must be taken, in the future, to prevent civilian loss of life and of property.


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

The General smoldered at the orders. The first bomb run had already passed, leveling about 1/6 of the city. With the remaining strikes halted, the city was given a reprieve. All Army and Marine forces had already withdrawn, and a cordon now surrounded the city. If they couldn't bomb them out of existance, maybe they could starve them...

"Jesus Christ,"said Lasin, walking through a half ruined building.
"Reports are in: there is a cordon around the city. We are having trouble getting anyone in or out,"said Marcus, looking around in sorrow.
"Prefect. We managed to stop the attack, and now we are going to stave,"said Lasin, walking out of the building with Marcus into the ruined city square.
"Well, yes. At some point, we'll stave,"said Marcus, before laughing.
"What?" said Lasin.
"We got from one mess into another, didn't we?"said Marcus, before shaking his head."We really should try to talk to them. Maybe if sticking them with damn near anything didn't work, maybe talking will."

Helicopters now buzzed overhead, with loudspeakers once more addressing the populace.

"Attention rebel combatants. Lay down your arms and surrender at the following; the Central Park tennis courts, the University Rotunda, The National Library Fountain. Surrender now and you will be treated with charity and kindness."

"WHAT WE WANT IS FREEDOM!!!!" was the resounding reply to the message that was shouted back at the helicopter.
Meanwhile, as Lasin walked through the ruined city streets, a man ran up to him.
"Hi. James Niman. Freelance journalist. I was hoping to talk to you," said the man, producing a business card.
"Journalist eh? I was going to look for one of you guys. Wanna write a big story?" said Lasin, looking at the man. He wore a somewhat dust covered suit - he had evidently been in the city when the bombing commenced.
"Sure. I'll write about anything,"said James, taking out a pen and pad.
"How long have you been here?"said Lasin.
"About 5 years. I've been working for the local Times,"said James.
"Good. I want you to write a story about what has happened here over the last few years, and the last few days. Then, i want you to go to the CFUS and get the story printed there,"said Lasin, watching as James wrote it all down.
"OK. Would you like frys with that?"said James.
"No. Just get writing,"said Lasin, before walkin away and leaving James, who promptly ran to the nearest place that wasn't half leveled.

Between the broadcasts, fighter jets and helicopters would buzz the town, flying fast and low, their exhaust and engine thrust kicking up dust and causing small whirlwinds inside the narrow streets.

"Civilians will not be harmed. Your cooperation is needed in addressing a dialogue with the Rebel factionists. You must understand that, under the law you are governed, armed revolt is unlawful..." a new message proclaimed.

The civilians continued to shout violently, until Marcus went back to the mansion and made a broadcast of his own.

People of the islands. Please cooperation with the CFUS. We must be able to talk to them...

James walked through the city streets, listening to the broadcasts. He walked along the streets, walking down anything and everything about the battle that had occured.

Orinon Air Base

"See?" a rather lanky Lieutenant said. He was standing with General Kruzchev, who looked none-too happy. "They cooperate if you make it seem like you're reasonable."

"Ja, ja..." the General said dismissively. "So now what, Comrade-*zampolit?"

"Now we send in small forces, enough to show presence, but not enough to be threatening. I suggest MP's."

New Meridian City, Orinon

Attention Orinons. Military Police will be moving in to restore lawful order. They are here to help you and to only detain law-breakers. Armed rebels are urged to surrender their weapons to avoid needless encounters.

ooc: just fyi, this is just a ploy.

Best get arresting. Cause the entire city is gonna be pissed about you levelling their homes...

When the Military Police arrived in the streets, they were not met by rebels or rioters. No, they were met by normal islands and civilians. Some were covered in dust, others were bleeding from wounds. Some were held up by friends or family, too injured to stand. And all of them looked at the police with the same look of contempt, of anger, on their faces.

The troops moving in were lightly armed, their armbands displaying the ubiquitous MP label. Several trucks and Jeeps displayed red crosses on them, and several parked within a small courtyard, tents set up by soldiers as medics began to set up aid stations.


Orinon Air Base

"You're sure about this?" asked the General.

"Yes, comrade," the zampolit answered. "Like our comrades in Vietnam have said, we must win their hearts and minds..."

ooc: zampolit=political officer

Many people followed the trucks at a distance, still wary of surprises. Many, however stayed away from the convey, instead moving towards the city square. There, slightly blackened from its encounter with fire, was the flag the teenagers had made, flying high on the flagpole. The people milled in the area, helping others with their injuries. And among them, helping everyone he could, was Lasin. After a while, however, he found himself walking towards the CFUS area, more out of curiosity as to what they were doing then anything else.

Many people followed the trucks at a distance, still wary of surprises. Many, however stayed away from the convey, instead moving towards the city square. There, slightly blackened from its encounter with fire, was the flag the teenagers had made, flying high on the flagpole. The people milled in the area, helping others with their injuries. And among them, helping everyone he could, was Lasin. After a while, however, he found himself walking towards the CFUS area, more out of curiosity as to what they were doing then anything else.
The soldiers were wary of the milling people, but after recieving their new, stricter orders, they left them well enough alone, although a few soldiers were keeping an eye on them.

"For those requiring medical assistance, an Aid Station is being set up at your disposal. Please keep an orderly line and listen to instructions to aid those with urgent-need conditions..."

Lasin walked towards the CFUS area. Even though he was among a huge crowd of people, he still stood out. His skin, though tanned, was still lighter then the dark skinned natives or the islands. Many in the crowd offered him food or water. He refused most of it, and that which he couldn't, he gave to others. He was clearly not the same person that ran from the CFUS 5 years previously. Walking to the Aid Station, he said to the CFUS men there: "I'll make sure the people are cared for. There are still people buried in the rubble, ones that we can't reach. We made sure they had water and some food, but we couldn't reach them."

The ordinary soldiers, understandably, didn't know Lasin by face or voice. When the Revolution began, very few peasants were ever allowed to see the Imperial family, and their flight from the Motherland had been swift. So the soldiers simply saw a paler, lankier Orinon talking to them.

"Food and water will be distributed equally," one assured him. "Let the aid workers do their job."

The other turned to his radio, requesting that Command be informed of those inside the rubble.

Orinon Air Base

"And how long are we to keep up this little act?" the General asked, rolling his eyes at the request.

"Until their hearts are securely within our grasp," the zampolit said, a sly smile on his face. "Order the Civil Engineering forces in; for the sake of humanitarian gesture."


New Meridian, Aid Station

The forward commander listened to the orders and nodded. He went outside to stand on a Jeep and address the public.

"A Civil Engineering Battalion has been ordered into the city to clear rubble and to help search for survivors. They will be accompanied by additional medical personnel. Please in helping them to locate survivors and to not confine them."

"Look,"said Lasin, switching to Russian and instantly revealing who he was by the almost upper class way he spoke."These people don't trust you. Look at them; they won't go within 5 feet of any of you. They trust me. They see me as one of there own."


"I think what he meant to say is that we should help them find the survivors under the rubble and not kill them,"said Marcus, before walking over and directing the group to the areas where people were buried.

"Look,"said Lasin, switching to Russian and instantly revealing who he was by the almost upper class way he spoke."These people don't trust you. Look at them; they won't go within 5 feet of any of you. They trust me. They see me as one of there own."


"I think what he meant to say is that we should help them find the survivors under the rubble and not kill them,"said Marcus, before walking over and directing the group to the areas where people were buried.
"Are you a civil leader?" asked the field commander to Lasin and Marcus. "We'll need to organize these civilians. We can't have them moving wantonly as our tractors and things try to remove rubble. It would be too dangerous," he added.

"Yeah, you could say that,"said Marcus, looking at a man beside him before nodding."Right this way..."

"Yes, I am. Sort of,"said Lasin, still speaking in Russian.

"Yeah, you could say that,"said Marcus, looking at a man beside him before nodding."Right this way..."

"Yes, I am. Sort of,"said Lasin, still speaking in Russian.
"You're Russian is very good," the commander said, "As if you studied on the Mainland," he complimented Lasin.

"I lived there for part of my life. Came here after the Revolution,"said Lasin, before walking to help them with the rather sudden influx of people with injuries.

"Triage is over there," the commander pointed, "Those men with the red crosses will get you sorted. Keep it orderly please," he said.

As the commander walked with them, the first of the CE battalion arrived, two transport trucks and three flatbeds containing earthmovers.

Some men ran through the city streets, a can of tar and a brush in their hands. Whenever they came across a building with people trapped inside, they painted a cross on the side of it.

"OK. Any building with a cross on it has someone trapped in it,"said Marcus, pointing at the street streets.

A man stepped out from one of the transports and walked towards the small group of the field commander, Lasin and Marcus.

"Comrade-Major," the soldier saluted the field commander, "Captain Yuri Gregov of the 344th CE Battalion." he introduced himself.

The Major traded the salute, and indicated which buildings to target.

"If any of these civilians know construction or earthmoving, they'll be helpful to us. Tell the others to keep their distance," Gregov said, already moving towards his men to instruct them.

"OK. I'll see..."said Lasin in Russian, before switched to Spanish and shouted to the crowd. Within a few minutes there was a group of 10 people.
"These men are are builders. They should be able to help you,"said Lasin.

"OK. I'll see..."said Lasin in Russian, before switched to Spanish and shouted to the crowd. Within a few minutes there was a group of 10 people.
"These men are are builders. They should be able to help you,"said Lasin.
"Good," Gregov said. "You, you and you," he began pointing to each of the men. "Join these groups over here," he instructed them, "Point out strong points and weak points...give the unit commander any information you can," he ordered.

Lasin translated what he had said, which had the men nodding and moving to direct the groups. Turning around, Lasin muttered to himself:"this doesn't feel right...2 hours ago they were trying to kill us...Reminds me of the Motherland almost...."

Lasin translated what he had said, which had the men nodding and moving to direct the groups. Turning around, Lasin muttered to himself:"this doesn't feel right...2 hours ago they were trying to kill us...Reminds me of the Motherland almost...."
"*Rodinya...?" Gregov muttered in response. "So, you are from the Mainland after all," he said to Lasin. "Where are you from?" he asked.

*Rodinya='Motherland' in Russian.

"Meridian City," replied Lasin, hoping to high heaven that Gregov didn't remember what the royal family looked like.

"Meridian City," replied Lasin, hoping to high heaven that Gregov didn't remember what the royal family looked like.
None of those on the ground knew, but some of the soldier's were actually KGB, and one overheard this interesting fact. He looked over at Lasin, assured that he knew the face from somewhere. Once he got some downtime, there would be an interesting report to be made to the GRU.

"Ah, the capital," Gregov said, "Never been there. I'm from Grom."