Posted by Prometheus on 18-05-2001 05:30:
I won’t be there the half an hour before our game tonight like I usually
am. I will probably be on at 5 till the 8 EST ready to go.
The Chinese while sympathizing with the Israeli plight at this time can not
contribute to President Keating’s plan due to Israel’s current position as a
Rouge nation and with out sacrificing our national security.
[This message has been edited by
Prometheus (edited May 17, 2001).]
Shalbim Al Imam walked quietly back into his office. 1000 cedi. Not much, but
close to a months pay. What’s more, he could keep both of those prisoners on
the official rolls, and receive rations for them for at least another 3 or 4
months. Free food for the family, the deal couldn’t be beat.
Of course, eventually he would have to say they died. Not by an escape, though
that might bring him a bonus, that would also cause a review of the prisons
security and probably more officers attached to his staff from Timbuktu, no
sense in killing the cash cow. No, the two boys would fall sick and die; he had
a doctor in the Barril district that did the "examinations" and
reports for 50 cedi...
Major Shammel Abber burst in "rioters! rioters!"
A small groan from Commandant Shalbim Al Imam "Shammel, last time there
were rioters it was two old women fighting over bread! I have half a mind to
send you to Iceland"
"No! Marxist followers! The ship builders on the docks! They are
revolting!"
Commandant Imam couldn’t believe this, this was ridiculous. But the impetuous
youth had never had a war, and desperately wanted action. On the whole he was a
good kid, but couldn't just let things slide. He would have to check things out
to get him to shut up. "Alright, lets go. Joshua!" Commandant Imam
yelled at his Jew Clerk, "come on, lets go" at least he could fine
people while he was down there, and he'd need his clerk to do that.
As they walked down the narrow, clutter filled streets towards the shoreline,
Shalbim Al Imam began to hear screams and chants. Rounding the corner, he was
shocked.
The dock workers, chanting Marxist hymns, screaming insults at the surrounding
population. To his right he could see who they were screaming out, market
farmers, merchants, and the ship ands on board the ships, trying to get goods
sent to Palermo. The crowds were screaming back. Anarchy had arrived at Libya
too.
Immediatly Commadant Shalbim Al Imam pulled the Jew and Shammel back. "Back
you fools, if they see the uniform they’ll all tear us to shreds. Joshua, run,
tell Brigadier General Ugeuth to hurry the 5th mounted down here now. Shammel,
run to the garrison, get them down here pronto."
Joshua ran off immediately, but Major Abber hesitated "Commandant, what
will you do?"
Commandant Shalbim Al Imam looked depress, "I suppose ill actually earn my
salary today, now run"
Shalbim looked around the corner quickly. The dockhands were getting more
aggressive. Already 3 ships were trying to put out to see, and the Marxist didnt
like that. Not willing to let the ships, with their fat wealthy merchants on
board, escape, the crowd began to surge to the gangplanks.
Commandant Imam immediately grabbed a bull’s horn from the nearby trinket shop
and gave it a loud blow.
Everyone stopped and turned.
Shalbim Al Imam gulped. ****, maybe he should have had a plan first.
"People! I order you to cease and disest now! If you do not disperse from
these docks, ill be forced have you all arrested."
The angry mob paused, normally used to taking orders, disobeying one was not a
natural thing for a Malian citizen to do. But if someone else gave them a more
popular order, they would be sure to follow. Shalbim Al Imam only hoped he
didn’t have anyone with guts in this crowd.
"And who exactly will arrest us all? You!?" a tall European looking
fellow announced in the front of the crowd.
**** Shalbim Al Imam thought
Just then, the thundering gallop of horses could be heard. Almost as distinctly,
the clanging of armor could be too. The cavalry had arrived.
Around the corner, 3rd battalion of the 5th mounted arrived on the docks. Some
100 men arrayed themselves on both sides of Commandant Imam. Shalbim Al Imam
felt his confidence finally go up.
"Well, it seems my little Jew came through before Major Shammel."
Shalbim said almost to himself. Then he announced "It seems these here
Knights have arrived before the garrison. Having no training in police work,
only in the art of bodily dismemberment, I suppose we will skip the arrest and
go straight to the massacre...agreed?"
A pale look came across all of the mobs faces...except that European fellow, it
only seemed to make him more angry.
"Kill me if you must! But by God the blood will splatter across all of Mali
and the people will unit under our martyrdom!"
Empty words, the crowd was already dispersing. The people of Mali were brave,
not stupid. Angered still, but unable to even make a statement in death, the
leader of the mob retired, and ran away.
Major Tallish spoke "Shall we pursue him sir?" a smile was creeping
across his face, bloodthirsty fellow wasn’t he?
Commandant Imam shoke his head "no, no, I think I have other uses for the
fellow, thank you gentlemen, umm, please though, if you could, patrol the
streets for the next few hours, no crowds are to be allowed to congregate, but
don’t harass anyone, the last thing we need is for the damn fools to actually
have a reason to riot." and began walking back to his Command Post.
All he could think about was all the damn papers he had to write. ****, he
suddenly thought, I didn’t even get to fine anyone. What a crappy day...
1090
CONFUSION ENGULFS MID-ASIA
Confusion over the exact wording in the Prometheus Accords caused Israel to
accuse the AL of breaking the treaty soon half the world was bickering and no
one seemed to know what the exact wording of the treaty said. After hours upon
hours of bickering and confusion the Chinese delegate left the meeting early
saying, “I am confused about the confusion”. Eventually everyone just
dropped it and went about there business. Besides this incident global affairs
were virtually non-existent.
CARAVANS AFLOAT
The great silk ship entered the Mongolian Ocean today on its trip to Africa;
soon three silk caravans will land on the African coast and make their trips to
various Mali and Zulu cities. A gems caravan left for Australia today carrying
Gems of the Chinese Empire. This caravan will arrive later than the Silk as it
has just left the North Chinese Sea. Both sets of caravans are expected to bring
in a great deal of money to the Chinese Empire.
PROMETHEUS TO VISIT BROKEN HILL
Next week Prometheus will attend his younger sister’s graduation from the
military academy at Broken Hill. His absence is expected to last several decades
due to the trip length. It is still unsure who will lead the Nation in his
absence.
CHINA THE NEXT SUPER POWER?
-Editorial
Number one in cities, third in units and the smallest population in the entire
world… is China the next Super Power? I would say no, while one of the largest
and most militarily armed nations in the entire world China is not yet a super
power.
China does not yet have the population nor the resources to be considered one of
the top nations in the world, but we have the potential to grow to that
position. A millennium ago no one could of predicted that China would be as well
off as she is now, nor could they have predicted that China would now be part of
the Axis Alliance. So who knows what the next millennium will bring.
An excerpt from a conversation between General Keti and President Keating,
Drako, South America 1024 AD
(edited slightly to increase relevance)
KETI: Lets get right to it President.........do you honestly think that the
world is gonna give cities to israel?
KEATING: Please general consider all aspects of my proposal.
KETI: I did President, do you think I would make light of your countries
proposal? At 43 cities, you have the most to give on this fair earth of
ours........besides, the Israelite scum are your allies..........it just
wouldnt make sense for the zulus, or anyone else besides your allies to help!
Besides that, I know the nature of Israels leader...he's very un-stable and I
really don't think my investment would be a good one if I were to make it.
KEATING: We will soon become a democratic world community! We need strong
trading nations!
KETI: It is our responsibility to care for your little child Keating? I think
not! Israel has done nothing in the history of man that would warrant gifting
them anything, never mind valuable land and cities!
I might considering donating cities for good causes.....but mis-management is
not one of them......SunTzu must learn to take responsibilities for the state of
his nations......not try avoiding them! Israel has squandered their chances
themselves.......no one did it to them.
KEATING: The leadership and actions pre-SunTzu era is the cause of Israels
plight, not their current leader! Surely you don't want to make his people pay
for things that have happened in the past!
I just thought it was a prudent idea, since, as a world community, we helped to
make the Chinese a successful and equal nation. Doesnt Israel deserve the same
opportunity. Surely we can all spare a few smaller cities. If it's spread around
it is not as much a pain for any single nation and the world needs 7 strong
nations! We need a better balance of power!
KETI: Come now President, in the politics of this world, does it make sense that
others would come to the aid of this nation of traders? I mean really Keating,
think of how I would look! China is a good nation, they were screwed out of
their homelands by your own ally...their policies are respectable....Now, on the
other hand, Israels policies and actions arent healthy for the world, they are a
danger and a burden......until they show us, and everyone otherwise, I can't
really help them...theyve made it impossible!
Also, in case you havent noticed Keating, my city production has been slowed
considerably....We've only built 2 cities in the last few hundred
years........most of our cities are quite large and certainly loyal to me and
the country......Ceding control to the Rogue Nation of Israel would not only
tarnish my image in the eyes of the world, but more importantly, the eyes of my
people.
President, you and Mongolia are Israels allies....you should be the ones helping
him out, not the Zulus. Israel is your little child now, and you must care for
it. With enough nurturing and guidance, perhaps that pathetic little nation can
some day return itself to the world scene......
Thank you for having me President, I must be going now......I need to catch the
next ferry back to the mainland....Good day.............
KEATING: I see your points General and they are well taken. Fair enough, I shall
speak to you again soon...........
Setting: Zulu Nation capital city, Zimbabwe 1056 AD
"General, your plan has worked.....the people have been calmed and order is
returning to your cities." said the Zulu Colonel, Ekid Usl.
"Heh, it's about time. Now we can get on with the plan. Next time those
raving lunatics get out of control, we'll have to call upon more drastic
measures to restore order....Let us head to the meeting, we are expected at this
time." said Keti as he walked towards the door.
Usl walked with Keti as he headed towards the strategy room in the back of the
palace.
"Colonel, have you consulted the Shaman today?" asked Keti.
"Yes Sir, this morning General. He and his team of scientists have been
united once again and they have already started back into their work. They will
finish their plans for this thing they call gunpowder very soon and a science
known as metallurgy soon after that. The Shaman tells me that with these
discoveries, the Zulu Nation will have the ability to build weapons that are
capable of doing major damage. He didn't get too in depth, for he knew the
logistics would bore me, but he says that after metallurgy is finished, he and
his scientists will be working on a project that will 'change the world'.
Something about a new form of power........I'm really not sure what the old kook
was talking about to tell you the truth!" Usl said laughing.
"Hush Ekid, can't you see that science and technology is the way of the
world? Our scientists are un-paralleled by any other scientists on the planet.
They are the most valuable resource in our nation! Forget the gold, silver and
spice! Without our scientists, we are nothing! You treat them as you would treat
me, for their well being and productivity is linked directly to our Nations
well being....Do you understand Colonel?" asked Keti with a mocking tone.
"Yes Sir, I understand." Usl answered obediently.
"Good. Now on to business......." Keti said as he pushed open the
doors to the strategy room.
Waiting in the room for the General were Keti's Lieutenant General and Admiral
of the Navy. Several Mali officers were present as well as a representative from
the Republic of China....
"Gentlemen, thank you for coming! Let us get right to business........Our
plan to.............."
The sounds of speaking are muffled as the large metal doors to the strategy room
swing shut..........
Well well well, another week has passed folks and here is your update...
Europeans storm a Zulu city! Which one and who was it? Has the bad blood between
the AL and the Pacific Pact rekindled? Arguments over the PCAs may lead to a new
feud! Finally Africa has come to law and order, who is in charge and in what
way? There is a new leader in city count, it may not be who you think!
"Mr. President" said the boy as he held open the carriage door, he
then bowed slowly with a smile accross his face.
President Bonaparte nodded as he entered the carriage and took a seat next to
Antonin Rossi, his foreign minister "Tony, what do you have for me?"
"Here, these are the reports from the seige at Skopje, its quite
interesting sir, I can't believe they'd make a move like that while we were in
talks with them."
"They are Vikings Tony, what'd you expect?" commented the President as
he looked over the files. "This is quite interesting, they seem to have a
good chance at cracking Skopje, what is our position?"
"Clearly we can't have one, but we do support the Zulus, we gave them that
city after all. It would do us well however if it was taken." said Minister
Rossi.
"I see, so we can retake it for the Zulus and be the heros" said
Napoleon with a wicked smile.
"I was thinking more along the lines of simply taking it back, but your
plan would be better actually, politically at least." said Rossi.
"Where am I headed now, its cold here, how can the Norse stand it?"
said President Bonaparte.
"I'm not sure sir, but sadly its not Greece, you need the sun. You are
headed to Berlin sir, you have to meet with some Officers, an Officer DiNapoli
sir." said Rossi as he looked over a date book.
"I hate Germany... very well. Oh yes, what is the status on the PCA
arguments in Siberia?"
"Handled."
"Concessions?"
"None."
"Perfect...."
A loud crack echoed through the salty air as the jar smashed into what seemed to
be a cloud of dust. The smoke lifted slowly to the right as the Caravel rocked
with the waves.
"Good lord, what is it?" said Sean Delaney as he smiled in awe.
"Its called a musket, Zulu order. Its quite a weapon no?" said
Commander DiNapoli as he loaded the gun and looked over it with pride, as if he
had made it himself.
"Are these the weapons we will use?" asked Benito.
"Eventually, yes" replied the Commander.
"May I try it sir?" asked Benito.
"You want to try this boy?" the Commander said with a chuckle
"Very well, see that gull there?" he pointed towards a seagull perched
on the side of the ship.
"Yes sir" Benito said as DiNapoli handed him the gun.
"That's your target son, go ahead." DiNapoli said as he crossed his
arms.
Benito pulled it up to his face and closed one of his eyes. "You want me to
shoot the bird?" he said.
"You aren't scared are you boy?" asked DiNapoli.
"C'mon Benny, kill the focker." said Sean.
He started down the black barrel and matched it with the bird, he slowly
attempted to keep it still, but he was shaking for some reason.
"Hold still boy, the bird will leave soon." said DiNapoli with a
smile.
Benito quickly pulled back on the trigger, a loud blast was heard and smoke flew
into his face, he turned and dropped the gun.
"Ha ha ha ha ha!" laughed DiNapoli, Sean joined in "Why did you
drop the gun, look you missed the bird and everything!" said DiNapoli as he
pointed into the sky where the gull was flying away.
"Its okay Moose, some of us aren't cut out for man work" Sean said
with a smile as he patted Benito on the back.
Benito quickly shoved Sean to the ground "What do you mean!? It was my
first time, I'll show you what a man can do!" he said angrily as he
clinched his fists.
"Hey hey! Benny! What the fock man, I was pullin yer chain! You must
relax!" said Sean, Benito stood for a bit and smiled, holding out his
hand..
"C'mon Sean, I was joking with you, take my hand." he said as he
pulled Sean up from the deck.
"Alright boys, stop playing around, we'll be in Lisboa soon. We'll only be
there for a few hours to restock on food, because we have to get to Berlin
quickly. I have a meeting with Consul Bonaparte-"
"You didn't hear Miguel?" said Bartolo Melfi, Commander DiNapoli's
aide "He is President Bonaparte now." he said in a mocking tone.
"Ah yes, President Bonaparte. Regardless, we'll be in Lisboa soon, and I
don't want to wait too long, if I am late my career is over. We have to clean
you two up also, you smell like a Mongol," he said as he laughed
"Alright, why don't we get this deck cleaned up, it looks like
trash..."
Benito had never seen such a house. It was tall and white, with eggshell trim
around the windows. Orately decorated curtains hung in the large regal windows
that adorned the mansion. Tall and lush bushes trimmed to perfection surrounded
the property, with gorgeous exotic flowers surrounding the home. The door was
large and was oak, with a lion's head with wings (most likely representing the
Venetian Lion) serving as a door knocker.
"You better be on your finest behavior gents" said DiNapoli as he
looked over his troupe; Benito Mussolini, Sean Delaney and his aide Bartolo
Melfi "Actually men, be on MY best behavior!"
The door opened and an older woman appeared, she had beautifully affixed white
hair (most likely a wig) and a fine yet modest dress on "Oh you boys are so
handsome do come in." she said.
"Do you always answer the door, don't you have a girl to do those things
for you?" asked DiNapoli with a smile.
"As you know Commander, first impressions are always best, would you rather
I answered or some Spanish servant?"
"Touche. Is the Admiral in?"
"He is to town, at Lisboa port, he should be returning in time for supper,
you will stay for supper Commander?" she asked.
"Well" he looked over his troupe once more "We are in somewhat of
a hurry, I have a meeting with the Consul in Berlin, and I don't think it would
be-" he was interrupted.
"President, he is the President now." she said.
"Ah yes, Lady Tucci, you are quite updated on your news, no?"
"It serves a lady to not only be beautiful but intelligent as well."
she said with a smile, giving a mock curtey (sp?).
"Ahh beauty and intelligence, tis an evil combination." DiNapoli
laughed.
"Well please, sit sit" she said motioning towards a sitting room to
the right. Its walls were forest green with paintings of ships and harbors
hanging from the walls in regal gold frames. There were shelves with helmets and
compasses, relics of old ships, and medals sitting upon them. The chairs were
decorated with olive leaves and other mediterranean foliage as its design. A
large table, with lions carved into its legs sat upon an ornate Israeli rug
"Isabella, bring some sweets for these gentlemen!" yelled Lady Tucci
into another room "Ah yes, where are my manners, Commander please introduce
me to these fine young boys."
The Commander grimaced as he looked over his men "This is my aide, Bartolo
Melfi, he is from Monaco, he's quite a man of learning."
"Come now Commander, my Lady I write books, well not books. Nothing has
been published as of yet, but I have many plays that I am constantly working on.
I hope when I retire to see these come to fruition, but I am a soldier
first." he said with a smile.
"Yes, we wish you the best of luck. This is Private Sean Delaney, he is an
Irishman, um, yes. And this is Private Benito Mussolini he is from Palermo I
believe. They are my escorts, and that is about it." said DiNapoli.
"I served six months in a Mali dungeon." said Sean bluntly.
"Oh really? My oh my, I didn't know we were at war with the Mali."
said Lady Tucci with a concerned look.
"He jests my lady" said DiNapoli as he looked at Sean "He was a
mere gutter cleaner in Dublin before I made a man out of him, nay I shouldn't
say that, I have yet to accomplish THAT goal." he said as he eyed Sean.
"I bet you would like to make a man out of me, eh Commander?" said
Sean as the Commander rose from his seat and grabbed him by the arm. The two men
quickly went outside.
"So..." said Benito "I like these paintings."
"Oh yes? The Admiral painted them, he is quite an atist no?" she
replied.
"Yes, fine fine work, the water is very emmaculate, such things are hard to
paint I hear." said Melfi.
"Yes, I was once a man of the sea. I worked at the docks in Venice, lovely
city." said Benito.
"Where is that girl? ISABELLA!!!!" yelled Lady Tucci...
It was nearing midnight when they finally arrived in Berlin. The President was
tired from his long journey and although he didn't particularly fancy Germany,
Berlin had always been one of his favorite cities.
"President Bonaparte" said the boy as he opened the door and nodded.
Napoleon raised his hand and smile.
Il Sole Di Mattina was the hotel he was staying at, the finest in Berlin.
"Napoleon we have a few matters to discuss before we retire, I would like
to get a few things handled early in the morning myself, so that you may sleep
long tonight. You must be refreshed you are making a public appearance
tomorrow." said Antonin Rossi as he looked over his notes.
"Tony, please. You need rest yourself, let us sleep. How long is my stay
here?" asked Napoleon.
"I belive two or three weeks, I am not sure. You can't leave before the
situation in Scandinavia is addressed though sir. Commander DiNapoli, you are
meeting him in a villa outside of Berlin before you depart, it is of the utmost
importance." said Rossi.
"Is this about the new weapons?" asked President Bonaparte.
"Amongst other things yes." replied Rossi.
"Very well Tony, seriuosly, get some sleep you look like sh*t."
Bonaparte said with a smile as he patted him on the back "God, I hate
Germany..."
"I swear, you'll die in that f*cking sh*thole in Africa if you don't
stop with your antics!" barked Commander DiNapoli.
"You know what Commander?" Sean said mockingly "You are of a
pretty good rank, why would you travel from Germany to Africa just to pick up
two criminals? It doesn't make fockin sense to me at all! I have ha-" Sean
was interrupted.
"I don't have to explain a thing to you, you are a petty criminal, you
don't understand do you Irish? You can either slowly die in that sandbox you
were in when I saved your ass, or you can live as a soldier. An honorable
position, even in death you would be revered." explained DiNapoli.
"You still haven't answered my question, why would they send a Commander to
Africa to pick up two criminals?"
"Fooling with our privates are we Commander DiNapoli?" said a scruffy
voice.
DiNapoli turned around, his frown changed quickly to a smile "Admiral Tucci,
good to see you old dog!" he said as he held out his hand, it was quickly
grasped by a portly man with white hair. He quickly pulled the Commander to his
chest and hugged him.
"Come now Miguel, since when do we shake hands?" asked the Admiral.
"Fatter than ever huh?" said DiNapoli.
"You bet Commander, who's your friend here?" asked the Admiral, he was
still smiling.
"This is my escort, Private Mus-"
"Delaney."
"Ah yes, Delaney, Private Sean Delaney." said DiNapoli as he motioned
for Sean to shake the Admirals hand which he did.
"Pleased to meet you Private Delaney. An Irishman huh? They are good
sailors." said the Admiral "Well, this is Antonio Pagniacci, he is my
associate. I must apologize beforehand Commander, there is a problem at the
harbor and I was merely here to fetch a few things to allay it, I understand we
had a meeting. We shall discuss matters, but I am afraid your stay must be
longer than planned."
"Hmmm, well I have a meeting with the President in Germany, quite soon
actually." explained DiNapoli as he scratched his chin.
"Ah yes, President Bonaparte. Well come in, I'll have my wife fetch some
appetizers, we can sit and discuss a few things before we depart." said the
Admiral as he entered the home...
"Thank you" said Benito with a warm smile.
"Huh?" said the maid as she turned, she seemed mildly stunned.
"Thank you, I said." replied Benito with a slight nod.
"Oh, you are quite welcome sir." said the maid, she then stood there
for a while and departed.
"We shouldn't have expected any more of him my lady, he is a mere
dockworker, consorting with the help." said Bortolo as he sipped his tea.
"I think that was very charming of you, Benito was it?"
"Yes ma'am, thank you." he replied as he raised his cup "There is
nothing wrong with being nice."
"My darling, I have missed you so!" said a booming voice, it was
Admiral Tucci. His wife rose from her seat blushing.
"Oh you old man, you've still got my heart in your clutches." she said
as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and kissed him on the cheak.
"That's not all I've got in my clutches" he said as he grabbed her
rear.
"Oh! He never grows up, not in front of the guests please!" she said
with a smile.
"I am sorry to interrupt this tender moment" said Antonio Pagniacci
"But there is a pressing matter at the yards, we must tend to it at
once!"
"Ah yes, I nearly forgot, Bartolo and um, what is your name?" asked
the Admiral, in reference to Benito.
"Benito Mussolini sir."
"Yes, Benito and Bartolo we have an issue downtown, we must hurry. Sean,
would you please go upstairs, there are three muskets there, brand new too.
Please fetch them for me." he asked of Sean, who seemed to hesitate but
nodded and ran upstairs.
Bartolo and Benito rose from their chairs "What is the matter sir?"
asked Bartolo.
"There seems to be some sort of uprising at the dockyards, I'm not quite
sure" explianed DiNapoli.
"The bastards are destroying cargo and blocking me from bringing in new
workers, its quite horrendous, some rouser is there riling everyone up."
explained Pagniacci. Sean ran down the stairs with the muskets.
"Let us depart, we must hurry, our carriage awaits..."
The dockyards were quite depressing. A dirt road veered from the cobbled streets
of Lisboa down a long hill towards the coast. Old run down buildings seemed to
be thrown together, the roofs were all tattered with patchwork done, it was
visible from the top of the hill. The planks seemed to be dry-rot from the salty
air and sea, dead fish and shelfish were strewn about the road, if you did not
notice them the smell told the tale. There were men milling about in tattered
clothing, and a loud rumble of discussion could be heard from the carriage...
"Someone should leave and fetch the Commandant." suggested Pagniacci.
"Not me Antonio, I have a financial stake in this too." said the
Admiral.
"I'll do it" said Sean.
DiNapoli quickly responded "No, you won't. It will have to be me. Admiral
make sure these two don't leave, keep an eye on them."
"What?"
"Make sure they don't run off." explained DiNapoli.
"Run off?" asked the Admiral "Why would they do that."
"No time to explain, just make sure" said DiNapoli as he opened the
carriage door "Benito, I'm depending on you to do this."
"To do what sir?" Benito said, he glanced over at Sean after saying
this, Sean was shaking his head and mouthed 'sir?'.
"You are my eyes and ears here, don't embarrass us." said DiNapoli as
he hopped out of the carriage.
"Alright let's go men, there are already a few down there..."
explained Antonio as they filed out of the carriage, Benito looked up the hill
at DiNapoli who was running uphill.
"Hey hey! Come on, keep your head on, this is important" said Antonio
Pagniacci as he turned Benito around.
The commandant's office was very modest. It was actually connected to a general
store. DiNapoli quickly thrust the door open and said "I request audience
with the Commandant at once, I am Commander DiNapoli of the Adritaic Armed
Forces!"
"I am the Commandant." replied a thin sickly looking man, he was
writing something in a ledger with a quill pen.
"I am Commander DiNapoli, do you know of Admiral Tucci?"
"Yes, a very nice man, I've dined at his-"
"Well with all due respect sir, we have no time to hear your story. Do you
have any men at your disposal?"
"A few in the back, why?"
"You haven't heared, there's an issue at the dockyards, Tucci's ships are
being mauraded..."
A slender man stood upon two boxes yelling random things at the rioters, they
were throwing barrels of wine from the ships and splitting them with axes, some
were pouring salt into the water, and others throwing cloth and beads from the
ships.
"There he is now! There is the tyrant Tucci!" yelled the slender man.
"Who is that idiot?" asked Sean as he loaded his musket.
"That is Camillo Cavour, I have no idea where he comes from. I hear he is
from Mali." replied Antonio. There were three other men with muskets,
pointing them at the crowded rioters.
"Tucci, it is simple, give your workers their fair share! You make
thousands of doubloons, what will a few more hurt?" asked Cavour.
"Quiet you heathen!" yelled Tucci "Do you see this men, he is
convincing my workers to destroy everything, this is going to cost me thousands
of doubloons, it is going to cost the government thousands of doubloons. Cavour,
you have ten seconds to tell these men to cease and desist or I shall be forced
to attack!"
"Attack then you fat pig! We have the numbers, men unsheathe your
weapons!" a great many of the rioters pulled sabres, while others held up
lances and pitch forks.
"These stupid fools, alright men ready your muskets!" yelled Antonio.
"Wait, wait, they only have sabres." said Benito as he looked at Tucci,
Sean turned and lowered his musket.
"Yes, I know."
"Well, this is a massacre, s, sir." said Benito.
"Of course it is! Do you want us to give them a fair chance? They are
common criminals Benito, READY YOUR MUSKETS MEN!" yelled Tucci, the other
three men that were already there held up their muskets, Sean looked at Benito
and slowly raised his.
"Sean no! This is not right." said Benito.
"What can we do Benny?" asked Sean.
"You have ten seconds Cavour, ten!" yelled Antonio.
"You can not defeat us Tucci, we may lose a few, but the rest will storm
you, you will die here today if you make the wrong choice Tucci!" yelled
Cavour, his men looked hesitant.
"One, two!"
"Sean stop it!" yelled Benito.
"Ugh, what the hell do you want me to do, we are soldiers now, you call
them sir Benny! We have no choice!" Sean replied as he affixed the gun to
his shoulder and took aim.
"You, Sean you can't do this."
"Three, four!"
"You can't hold the people down for long Tucci!"
"Five, six!"
"I can't let this happen Sean!"
"SHUT UP BENNY!"
"Seven, eight!"
"Jesus Christ Sean, they're gonna get massacred!"
"Nine!"
"NO! STOP NOW!..."
There he stood, there were six men standing before him, five of which with
muskets pointed and ready to fire.
"Stand down!" yelled Admiral Tucci.
"NO! I can't let this happen. I can't let you massacre these people
today." Benito said "Look at them! They are hard working, tired
people. They are poor, what is this all about Tucci?"
"I don't have to answer to-"
"YES YOU DO!!!! YES YOU DO RIGHT NOW!" said Benito brandishing his
musket.
"Benny, stop it..." said Sean as he slowly approached Benito. Cavour
and his people stood still, silently.
"I know what I'm doing Sean. This is not what we are here to do, this is
not right. Admiral Tucci, your domain is the sea, your underlings are sailors,
not these men!" barked Benito loudly.
"Private Mussolini, at ease!" yelled the voice of Commander DiNapoli,
he had the Commandant and around eight men following "What is going on here
Admiral Tucci?"
"Commander, this man disobeyed a direct order"
"Admiral, see his uniform, does that look like a sailor's uniform?"
"Commander, I"
"With all due respect, your orders are as worthy of obedience as their
orders" DiNapoli said in reference to the assembled dockworkers.
"What is going on here?" asked the Commandant. His name was Silvio
Narducci, he had served in the Royal Army in years past. During the revolution
he stayed in Lisboa to help the people keep order in his city.
"The Admiral here was telling us to fire upon these men." said Benito
as he dropped his musket upon the dock.
"These men were going to attack with these swords, we had to retaliate in
order to defend ourselves, we are quite fortunant that you came Commandant, else
we-" said Antonio.
"Shut up!" yelled Sean "Benito is right, Admiral Tucci told us to
kill them with these guns."
The Admiral looked to the ground "No, no, these men are right Commandant. I
was going to fire upon them. They were destroying my shipments, they were taking
money from me and from the state, I had to defend my wealth Commandant, you must
understand." the admiral said.
"I can't believe this, Admiral Tucci?" said DiNapoli, the Admiral
nodded, his eyes began to tear up.
"Who is responsable for this riot?" asked the Commandant.
"Camillo Cavour, that Mali rebel rouser, he is to blame!" yelled
Antonio.
"Where is he?" asked the Commandant.
Cavour was nowhere to be found. The men stood still for a while, not knowing
what to do, finally the Commandant said "Here is what shall occur, Antonio
Pagniacci, and Admiral Tucci, you shall at once go to my office. If you are not
there when I return I shall place both of you under arrest and seize all of your
property, is this understood." Admiral Tucci nodded, Antonio gave a
confused look and finally nodded himself. "You son, you are quite brave to
have stood in front of the musket fire, what is your name?"
"Mussolini sir," he looked at Commander DiNapoli who nodded his head
"Private Benito Mussolini sir, I am an Adriatic Soldier." Benito again
looked at DiNapoli, who was smiling.
"Here, take it" said Sean as he handed his musket to the Commandant
"We better go now Commander, our work here is done. Besides, you've got to
meet the President."
"Aye Sean, I must admit, this has been quite a day. Come now, we should
return to our ship-"
"Commander DiNapoli, did you not have business with the Admiral?"
asked Benito.
"I did, but it was of a personal level, and I am not sure how long the
Commandant will be with him, tis better that we go, I'm sure the President is
already in Berlin..."
"... to be strong, to be loyal, to be wise. These virtues are possesed
by you, the good people of Europe. The world is the better for having such
strongwilled people as its inhabitors. The road to glory has been drawn before
us, all we have left is to pave it with our strengths, our abilities, and even
our faults. We are nearly completed my friends, our task is nearly achieved. I
can only thank you for your compassion, and your benevolence, I can only thank
you for your cooperation. I am but a man, and despite my greatest attempts it is
only with the will and strength of the people that these things have been
achieved. Thank you, and viva la europa!" said President Bonaparte, it was
an unusually warm day in Berlin. The crowd burst into applause and Bonaparte
modestly nodded and smiled, his hand raised as if attempting to quiet the crowd.
But Bonaparte liked this, he did not want the crowd to stop.
"Mr. President, you have a meeting with the joint chiefs in an hour."
said his aide, Pablo Orsoni.
"I know Pablo, let me mingle with the people, they won't mind if I am a
little late..."
The sea calmed him, the water crashing against the wooden ship was like a song
to him as he looked over the pink horizon. "Hey Benny."
Benito nodded at his friend Sean "Yeah?"
"Look, I don't know what came over me back there in Portugal. I mean, I
thought I was following orders." explained Sean.
"I know, no explaination needed. I don't know what the hell is going on
anymore. One day I'm a farmer, the next a dockworker, before I know it I'm on a
ship headed to meet the President, its been quite the past few months
Sean." said Benito, still staring out into the horizon.
"Well, we have to discuss our situation Benny, we aren't soldiers man, we
are dockhands. I mean, I don't want to die for this man, I don't want to die for
anyone. We could escape, it could be me and you, we'd find work we'd find
adventure Benny." said Sean with a smile.
"How are we going to leave Sean?"
"I don't kno-"
"Why leave anyway? There's nothing out there for us!"
"Listen, Benny listen to me. Why would a Commander, who is meeting with the
fockin' President of the AL save two criminals from a Mali prison? Why would he
travel that far for us? It doesn't make any sense!"
"Who cares? Sean, we'd die there. The Africans don't care about us, we're a
couple of Europeans that beat on some girl, not even that, we attacked their
soldiers Sean. We would have died in that hellhole, and you are trying to figure
this out? There's nothing to figure out Sean, this is our life now, THIS is what
we were destined for!" said Benito as he pointed to his uniform.
"Benny, I don't like this, it doesn't make any sense at all. Something is
going on here, that's my point. Sure we are saved, but that doesn't mean we rush
into whatever this bastard DiNapoli has planned for us!"
"What do you want us to do? Swim? We don't even know where the hell we
are!"
"We are in Biscay, just go east."
"You aren't serious are you?" Sean stood still "Oh my God, Sean,
it would be much easier to escape from Germany anyway, there are plenty of
forests to hide. And you're right why the hell would a Commander go looking for
two criminals?"
"He traveled through the Sahara, I doubt he'd have much trouble in the
forests of Germany Benny."
The room was small and filled with smoke, it was hard to make out the trimmings
on the wall due to this. General Pantiglione, General Grazziani, and Admiral
LaRouche were sitting around a small wooden talbe laughing and smoking cigars
when the President walked in.
"President Bonaparte" said Grazziani as the three stood and saluted
the President, who nodded and gave a half salute back.
"I'd like to get to work as soon as possible gentlemen." The three had
always respected the Corporal, his bravery was known throughout the AL "We
have an issue here, Commander DiNapoli will be arriving within the next week and
we must establish our logistics. Has the press issue been handled?"
"Yes, all of these men are criminals or orphans Mr. President, and current
reports state they are headed to Mantucci for training, its nearly
foolproof." said General Pantiglione.
"Good, have the men been briefed?"
"Well sir, we have yet to assemble them all, I believe DiNapoli is bringing
some with him, he went to Africa to pick up any European inmates he could find,
not quite sure how well he did." replied Pantiglione.
"Only European? Jews and Africans would have sufficed as well, has anyone
spoken to Svefn?"
"I have sir" said the Admiral "He says he can control leaks, and
thus far there are no reports of our activity with King Erickson, things look
very positive at this point in time."
"Alright" said the President as his aide handed him a thin ledger
"I have here some weaponry orders, we have an arsenal in Denmark, fresh
supplies from Africa too. What is the naval situation?"
"We have enough naval capabilities in the Baltic to support this endevour
sir." the Admiral replied quickly.
"I want all of our people gone, ambassadors, clerks, anyone that is there
representing us. We don't need any leaks from our side either, this must be done
quietly. It musn't have the appearance or the stench of war, do you
understand?" said the President.
"Yes sir" the three said, nearly in unison.
"I swear, if this leaks you'll be serving in Nordinsky by the time you
realize what hit you, all of you, regardless of rank." said the President
as he stood up.
"Sir, a word?" asked General Pantiglione.
"I am quite busy, I have to run to Amsterdam for a meeting with their MPs
then I have to shoot back here to Berlin to meet Commander DiNapoli. Hmm,
perhaps you should be present at that meeting General?" suggested
Bonaparte.
"Sir it is somewhat private." said General Pantiglione.
"Send a letter to Rossi, he'll handle it for you. Otherwise we'll talk in a
week. Adieu..."
Amsterdam was bustling with activity. It was one of the most beautiful and
largest cities in the entire League, and by far the most liberal. Tall townhomes
crunched together down thin cobbled streets. Carriages, children, women, men and
shopkeeps filled the streets with a gentle rumble as they went about their
business...
"Alright boys, we are mere days away from meeting President
Bonaparte." said Commander Miguel DiNapoli.
"Wow, I've always wanted to see Amsterdam." said Benito as he looked
around him, his eyes wide, as if he was a small child in a toystore.
"We have to get a carriage, we musn't waste time, I have mere days to
arrive, do you see a stable anyhwere?" asked DiNapoli as he tried to look
above the large crowd of humanity...
"Quite a fine cigar, don't you think Antonin?" asked President
Bonaparte as he puffed his cigar, it was from Sydneyago.
"Ah yes Mr. President, very good craftsmanship. About the only good thing
the Australians do" laughed Antonin Rossi, Adriatic Foreign Minister.
"Well Antonin, those people on Cuba, they aren't Australians. They are of
Adriatic stock." said the President.
"Aye, you speak the truth Mr. President... then I guess the Australians
have nothing to gloat of, eh?" asked Rossi with a smile.
"Well they did manage to give us a proper kick in the ass, no?" Rossi
was silent "Yes, yes they did..."
"Mr. President!" a voice yelled as the door swung open, it was Giacomo
Genovese, aide to the mayor of Amsterdam "We have ten minutes before the
meeting sir, the Governor says the MPs are growing restless and beginning to
argue amongst themsleves."
"Ah, well, that is their natural state. Argument." said Antonin Rossi.
"I suppose we better go, here you are Giacomo, you may partake of my cigar,
it is from Cuba, quite the smoke if I do say so myself." said President
Bonaparte.
"That is quite fine Mr. Pre-"
"Please Giacomo, it would be my pleasure, try it." said the President
as he handed the cigar to Giacomo.
"I, well, thank you Mr. President..."
The stables were very dark and small, tucked into an alleyway behind a bookstore
and ran by an old Israeli. The "office" was in the back of the room
between the stables, the smell was nearly unbearable.
"Christ, it smells in here." said DiNapoli as he covered his nose.
"This a Horse stable or a Mongol stable?" asked Sean as he laughed and
patted Benito on the back.
"Hello, may I help you?" a frail voice said from the back of the room.
"Yes, yes" said DiNapoli as he approached the desk and shook the man's
hand "My name is Commander Miguel DiNapoli, we require a coach to Berlin,
your finest carriage would be in order money is not an issue."
"Never say that to a Jew" Benito whispered to Sean.
"Ssssh" Sean replied.
"Well, we have many fine coaches Commander, I apologize for conditions
here, space is a commodity in Amsterdam no?" laughed the Jew.
"So it seems, so it seems. I'd like these two white horses here to pull the
carraige, they look quite valliant." said DiNapoli as he petted one of the
horses' neck.
"A fine choice, come come, in the back I have the carriages." said the
Jew as he and DiNapoli departed.
"This place is a dump, look at this, there's ****e on the floor!" said
Sean as he looked down and stepped back.
"Hey Sean, you think we could leave?"
"Leave? OH LEAVE! You want to?"
"I don't know, should we?"
Sean looked around "Well, it would be easy to get lost in that crowd
DiNapoli would never find us if we did."
Just then DiNapoli and the Jewish man entered "Alright boys, looks like we
are all ready to go..."
"The point is, Mr. President, the point is that science should not be our
top priority at this point in time. Development should be our top priority, we
bring in more money and trade if we develop our transportation." said MP
Van Der Jagt.
"I understand your concern Mr. Van Der Jagt, but at this point in time
science is the most important thing on our agenda, room is there for development
of infrastructure, but we can't devote all of our resources to that end. Some
has to go towards trade, some has to go towards military-" explained the
President.
"Speaking of which" said MP Idoni "The Military is quite weak at
this time no?"
"We are living in times of great peace Mr. Idoni, a grand army is not
required at this point in time, we merely build sufficient defensive
garrisons." said the President.
"That's odd, were we not just in a scuffle with the Mongols in northern
Asia? Did not the Jews begin to suggest another war with the Adriatic League?
I've also heared rumors that new weapons are available that will change the way
wars are fought, it would behoove us to develop an able-bodied military in order
to quench the thirst for blood of other nations!" retorted Idoni.
"Well said, however the chance of war is quite limited, we must accept the
fact that we are no longer in the center of the world's stage, politics do not
come knocking on the AL's door as much as they used to. Our fear of war should
reflect our political situation." said the President "Perhaps the Hawk
party likes to make boogymen out of nothing?"
The room's Doves shared a laugh "President Bonaparte, I don't think jokes
are in order, I asked a serious question of our DOVE president and as usual he
ducks the answer. It strikes me as odd that a former Coporal of high regard is
so ambivalent about his own military, quite odd indeed." replied MP Idoni.
"Mr. Idoni, your fears are unfounded. You mention new technology, you know
as well as I do that we are recieving this technology but the facts are that it
is classified" said the President as he looked to the guards at the door
"Now I've divuldged the secret, are you satisfied Mr. Idoni?" asked
the President.
"Mr. President, I assure you that was not my major issue here."
"Then what is?"
"Mexico, the Australians routed us in Panama and Yucatan during the War,
now we have minimal defense in that area. Although I represent the people of the
Netherlands, I am quite sure the safety of our Mexican friends are something
they believe in."
"Steps are being taken Mr. Idoni, in a few months this will no longer be an
issue." said the President. Idoni sat back in his chair and smiled.
"Mr. President, what about the Annexation of Scandinavia?" asked MP
Gianni Dante "How is that going?"
"Well, it is going quite well indeed Mr. Dante. We are pulling our people
out though for the winter, so they can see their families during the holidays.
But things are going well, I really think King Erickson is going to cede to the
AL..."
Setting: Australia 1201 AD
A small band of barbarians looked over the rocky ridge. In the distance was the
thriving metropolis of Broken Hill.
Caravans came and went throughout the day and occasionally a mounted sentry
walked the outskirts.
"The Librarys in th' centa of town ry' Hakan?" said a scruffy looking
barbarian to what appeared to be the gang's leader.
"Thats right Oman, thats where the librarys at...."said the man as he
stared down at the city.
"S' whens we gonna strike cap? And ahh we 'lowd to rape the women and rob
th' merchants? " asked Oman.
"Soon m' friend, soon. Therell be no raping, no stealing, nothin' of the
sort. Tis to be a quick and quiet operation. In n' out ya know? Alls we got t'
do is assure that all the documents is destroyed. And make sure the buildin'll
never be used again. We're gonna burn the ****er to the grown, ya know? "
Hakan said smiling.
Laughing stupidly Oman replies, "Damn straight! That'll teach that ****ing
Keating to screw with us! We gonna get him good eh?"
"Thats th' plan matey................sharpen your swords and make ready,
dusk is falling....we'll need to strike soon............soon as the sentry
passes round towards the north side of th' city, we slip in and torch the ****er,
got it?!" Hakan said in a serious tone......
Oman nodded and walked towards his pack.....from it he withdrew a sword and a
torch....he smiled wickedly.
1201 AD:
"Manning, I think that even though Paul may look a bit of a fool he's much
stronger than anyone realises."
"Whadyamean?" Manning's had a few....
"Well, if he decides to use force we are militarily very strong. We have
many vet fighting units. Our combined attack factor is HUGE compared to any
other nation. They are all upgrading from old units, mostly non-vets."
"I hate him. Paul the craul"
"I hope you don't mean Saul the craul!"
"He He, no matey, you're me mate!"
"Shh, here he comes"
"Good Evening Manning. How are you this fair night?" Paul was such a
nice man.
"Cripes, I mean, I'm fine, thankyou and you?" Manning was p1ssed.
"I'm such a fool. The whole world is laughing at me... I meant well but
they all get so up themselves with politics. I helped the Chinese without fear
or favour. I feel for the Israelis. I want to help them too. Maybe future
leaders of those countries will not be so nice to me but.."
"Oh for Goodness sakes Mr Prseident!" interjected Saul "Just
worry about Australia and let them sort themselves out! As you say, you may get
no thanks for it in the end"
"I'm a statesman. I pride myself on fair play"
"They don't" Manning quipped "Why don't ya crush em with ya
armies?"
"Manning, have you been drinking?"
"No sir, hic..."
"Hmm, I could you know. And that blasted new Zulu leader has called himself
Keti! What a nerve. He thinks he's so strong and good with the ladies too. Ha!
He's plotting against me, I can feel it"
"We trade well with Zulus, sir." Saul was a rational man not entirely
staying on track with Manning's plans. He was more like Paul than Manning.
Thinking of the well-being of people first.
"Yes, but they have avoided all wars and only looked out for themselves.
They don't care about anyone else and even their Mali allies have been brought
down by Zulu technologies. The Wall collapsed because of them. Mali are easy
pickings now"
"Yes Paul, kill the bastards!"
"You want war? A military man who speaks of the horror of war against the
old foes the AL?" Paul was getting a bit confused here
"Yeah, but AL blood is like ours. They are like us. Great warriors and men
of their word. But the Zulybulus and Maliwalis are aliens. They are scum!"
"I think you've said enough for one night Manning. Get some sleep."
Suddenly a messenger burst into the room. "Sir, Sir, I mean Mr
President!"
"Yes, Yes..!!"
"We've been attacked! They came from nowhere!"
"What?"
"They've taken.........
"Welcome to Berlin Commander." said the boy as he bowed.
Commander DiNapoli nodded as he exited the carriage, Sean Delaney and Benito
Mussolini followed suit "Ahh, Antonin Rossi you old codger, how are you
doing?" said DiNapoli with a smile as he shook Antonin Rossi's, the
Adriatic Foreign Minister, hand.
"I'm doing quite well Miguel, fat and happy." said Rossi.
"Oh bah! I'm doing a much better job at that than you are, you look to be
in good health Tony. How's the Corporal?"
"His usual self, arrogant and disrespectful, we must make haste though, the
President and General Pantiglione are awaiting you, and time is of the
essence." said Rossi.
"I see, these are my escorts Private Delaney and Private Mussolini-"
"Hmm, will they be accompanying you at the meeting?"
"This one" DiNapoli said in reference to Mussolini "The other can
watch the door" finished DiNapoli as he smiled and patted Sean on the
back...
The guards opened the two large oak doors that seperated the lobby from the room
where the meeting would be held, there was a very large table sitting under an
even larger chandaliere. President Bonaparte and General Pantiglione sat at the
seperate ends with various military leaders sitting in the other chairs, there
were two empty chairs.
"Gentlemen, your Commander has arrived" said DiNapoli as he entered
the room, the men stood up and began to greet him...
"Benito, the ***** wants you at the meeting." said Sean, in a hushed
voice.
"I don't know why." said Benito.
"Tell me everything" said Sean, Benito nodded and the doors were shut.
"Benito, please by all means, have a seat." said DiNapoli.
"Who is this?" asked General Pantiglione.
"This is my private guard, Private Mussolini, he stopped the Massacre at
Lisboa you know?" said DiNapoli patting Benito on the back, almost
'presenting' him to the others.
"So you are the brave man?" asked the President from accross the
table.
"Ye, yes I suppose... sir." said Benito in a very shakey voice.
"No need to be nervous son, your job is not on the line like the rest of
these men." laughed the President, the others laughed too "So, Miguel,
please begin."
"Yes sir, where is the? Ah yes the map here we are." DiNapoli pulled a
large sheet to reveal a large map of Scandinavia and the Baltic sea "This
as everyone should know is the Scandinavian Penninsula. More importantly this is
where the Kingdom of Scandinavia calls its home. Discussion and appeasement has
not worked, King Erickson refuses to accept annexation as a plausable solution
to his nation's problems. Poverty, illiteracy, and of course injustice plague
this nation. Currently the Scandinavians, or Norse are laying seige to the
Ethnic European city of Skopje, which is under the dominion of the Zulu
Republic. We've recieved letters from the good people of Skopje asking us,
Europe, to end the Scandinavian threat. We have also" DiNapoli nodded at
one of the men sitting at the table, his uniform was not Adriatic "Recieved
letters from Scandinavia asking for intervention agianst King Erickson.
Gentlemen, Mr. President, this is Svefn Uppsala, he is a Scandinavian General
who is tired of Erickson's reign, I shall allow him some time to speak."
Commander DiNapoli sat down and whispered to Benito "Listen closely."
"Hello, Gentlemen, President Bonaparte, my name is General Svefn Uppsala. I
have served under the King for most of my life and have grown tired of his
treatment of my people." Svefn paced around for a while... "I remember
when I was born, Scandinavia was part of the Adriatic League. Things were very
good in those days, but Leif believed they could be better, he was against the
constant squabbles the AL was involved in, we all were. We are not a fighting
nation, we are peaceful the Norse, but Erickson says that in order to grow
stronger we must conquer. He said that Iceland and Greenland were Norse islands
and must be taken. He sent men to invade Greenland in order to surround Iceland
and invade it from both sides, he felt the small island couldn't stand up to two
onslaughts... The people didn't want to fight, they didn't want their sons,
their brothers, their husbands to be sent to fight a war, he forced it. Join up
or go to jail was the policy. I can't sit back and see this, I am a soldier, we
are all soldiers. We chose this job, we weren't forced into it, it wasn't jail
or war for us" Benito looked at DiNapoli, DiNapoli did not look back
"That is why I oppose Erickson, he is not a good leader, he must be
deposed." Svefn sat down and whiped the sweat from his forehead.
"Very well, General Uppsala. Will we have any Scandinavian support?"
asked General Pantiglione.
"Minimal, we have a small army, its out in Greenland or is patrolling right
now, I couldn't tell much people for fear of being found out. All of the Norse
that support me, that I know of at least, are here in Germany waiting to
fight." said Svefn.
"Very well then" said DiNapoli as he rose "I have here some
papers which lineate our forces, our supplies, et cetera, the entire gamut.
Benito would you please distribute these documents?" Benito picked up the
stack and rose, slowly walking around the table handing out the sheets of paper.
Most of the men merely said Thank you, some mentioned him by name, others just
smiled and nodded when he got to the President he stopped for a second and
placed it in front of him, the president lightly grabbed his forearm and pulled
him down "This is very good for you Benito, listen closely" he smiled
and let him go.
"As you all know, this meeting must be kept very quiet, the details and
subject matter must be kept quiet. Political realities prevent us from going all
out, declaring a full scale war. As it stands too many things will be misread
from this invasion, therefore it doesn't exist and never occured. All of the
soldiers are either criminals or orphans, therefore no death notices will be
sent back to Europe, nobody will know a single one of these men perished"
Benito gave DiNapoli a stern look, DiNapoli shook his head and continued
"Currently the troops are dispatched in the woods of Denmark, a secret
locale, nobody knows the press expects nothing. The press believes they are
training near Mantucci, we have some garrisons there playing this role for us at
this point in time. Before I continue are there any questions about anything
I've discussed?"
Benito raised his hand "Yes, Private Mussolini?" DiNapoli asked.
"Sir, with all due respect, Mr. President, I don't think you should do it
like that." said Benito very hesitantly.
"Like what?" asked General Balboa.
"Well I, we, we were told that we would be honored and revered for our
actions. He said we would either die in a cell or die with honor. And well, I
just believed that, you know?" said Benito as he sat in his seat.
Benito was very nervous as he looked around, many eyes peered at his face, he
looked at DiNapoli who had a frustrated look on his face. He slowly turned and
looked at the President who was smiling.
"Benito, you don't understand the situation." said DiNapoli.
"Oh, I think he does Commander, I think he does indeed." said the
President "It appears as if though he was lied to, I apologize Private
Mussolini, but such is the way of the world, it is dark and cold. It is up to us
as individuals to make our own bright shining light, you know this, you've
exemplafied this at Lisboa."
"On the contrary Mr. President" said Benito, there was almost a
unanimous gasp in the room as all eyes turned from the President to the young
Private (shaddup), "I was not attempting to make my own bright light in
Lisboa, I simply did not want to massacre those people."
The President nodded "Continue, Commander..."
As of right now our next session will occur this coming Thursday at 7:00pm EST
(US). Which is only three days away. Thus far this is the current roster that I
am working with....
ISRAEL - NOBODY
ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Capo ZULU
NATION - Drake
AUSTRALIA - Deity
MONGOLIA - Easthaven CHINA -
Prometheus
MALI NATION STATE - Chris (sorry there was no yellow)
So that is what we have so far, we need only to find a replacement for Israel.
In the event we do not find a replacement for Israel we will either dissolve
Israel into different provinces which will be given to the nations of the world
(not necessarily all of them). Or we will have Israel play as AI, both options I
am totally against, so I hope we do find a replacement for Israel.
Which basically means anyone who reads this thread, and is not currently
invovled in the game, and can play Thursdays from 8:00pm EST (US) (Although this
week we start at 7:00pm EST) until 11:00 pm - 12:00 am (depending), and is
willing to take over a nation that is considered the worst in a very creative
way please make that known here on this thread or you may ICQ me at 101832697,
or E-Mail me at LBPSlacker@aol.com.
Thanks a bunch, hopefully this game survives, meanwhile I'll be searching for a
replacement myself, so if you really wanna take over don't hesitate to contact
me ASAP.
Peace.
Ten miles south-west of Oslo...
Benito looked ahead as the horse methodically clopped forward, kicking the mix
of ice and mud into the air behind him with every step. The large golden flag of
Russia waved to his side, the giant and regal Eagle emblazoned accross it
looking him dead in the eyes as if he was being watched.
The first Russian Mounted, the first Russian Infantry. He was their commander.
"I know you are under emmense pressure Benito." said Commander Miguel
DiNapoli, who was in charge of all Adriatic Forces in Germany "But you must
forget everything that has happened in the past week, yes I am angry with you,
you have challenged my position, my authority."
Benito said nothing.
"Mussolini, Benito!" barked DiNapoli, Benito quickly turned.
"Yes sir."
"I am speaking with you son, where's your head?"
"I don't know sir, I'm going to die."
"You won't die, you are smart, you are a good leader a natural leader. Your
men will respect you." said DiNapoli as he looked forward "Its a
beautiful country, this Norway."
"How long do we have?"
"Only a few miles. I expect you to be on your best, President Bonaparte
will be there to give a speech to the soldiers, he doesn't want a defeat here in
Scandinavia. If we lose this will hurt his Presidency." said DiNapoli...
A small stockade fort had been constructed within a clearing, snow covered the
roofs and laid between the pikes that created the walls of the stockade. A small
stream of smoke billowed into the sky from one of the houses within the
stockade, the A.L. flag flew high above, and under that the banner of President
Bonaparte.
"Here we are, Le Havre." said Commander DiNapoli as he quickly turned
his horse to face the troops, Benito did likewise.
DiNapoli quickly ran his horse up and down the line and back to the front, he
nodded to Benito who steadily galloped towards the line of Infantry and
dismounted his horse.
"I am Special Corporal Benito Mussolini." he said as he slowly paced
down the lined Infantry "I am in command of the first Russian Infantry and
the first Russian Mounted. In other words I am your commander." he looked
to DiNapoli who nodded andmade a motion with his hands to calm down "In
just two days we will lead the southern charge against the city of Oslo, where
King Erickson is holed up. In just two days we shall liberate Scandinavia from
this despot and free the last Europeans still living under the shackles of
Monarcharial oppression." Continuing to pace down the line he saw Sean
Delaney and nodded, Sean kept his stern visage "Many of you will perish in
the offensive, many of you will be terribley wounded. Your lives have lead up to
this moment, in just two short days those who perish will be forever remembered,
in just two short days those who survive will forever be celebrated." he
looked up and down the line, how had he changed? Why was he lying to them?
Just then drums and trumpets could be heared, Mussolini turned and looked down
the long path leading to the stockade fort, a small garrison was seen marching.
There was a carriage behind them, and the banner of President Bonaparte raised
above.
"Stand at attention!" barked Commander DiNapoli "Here comes
President Bonaparte!" he fixed his uniform and his hat and stood straight
up at attention...
He wore a simple Corporal uniform, a large hat, and a plain grey trenchcoat. His
glare looked into the infantry that was assembled behind Mussolini and Commander
DiNapoli and smiled "Commander DiNapoli, I haven't seen such a grand army
of criminals and destitutes since the revolution."
"Mr. President." said the commander as he saluted, Mussolini did
likewise.
The president approached Mussolini and gently placed his hand on his arm
"This boy, has made me a proud man" he smiled "Commander, you
have done well with this one, shall he lead this troop?"
"Yes Mr. President, he shall lead this garrison." replied the
Commander.
"Corporal Mussolini" said the President as he saluted Benito "Do
me proud son, do our nation proud" the President leaned into Benito and
whispered "Don't worry, your sacrifices here shall never be forgotten,
nothing remains a secret... there are no secrets..."