Red Upon the Sand

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Red Upon the Sand; The Kurdish Taliban and Iraqi Occupation
Topic Started: Jun 1 2013, 01:40 PM (1,170 Views)
NRE	Sep 30 2013, 02:08 PM Post #26
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	On the road back to Fort Hatim The convoy back to Fort Hatim was filled with the happy cheers and joyous songs of the victorious Kurdistani. Surely the great battle of the Shah Ravine would be told in tales and song for many generations to come. It was certainly a tale for the ages as it involved all the great elements of a legendary tale. Valiant knights from humble beginnings, an oppressive overlord and his ruthless army, impossible odds, brilliant schemes, and of course the triumph of the vigilant. Nicholas could not help but smile himself, almost just as big as Zahawi had at the end of the battle. Of course both men's smiles seemed to pale in comparison to that Colonel's boyish grin. It'd been so long since he'd had a good war to fight. His last campaign in Scandinavia had gone so horribly wrong that it had soured the old man's feelings. That was partly the reason he'd stayed out of the fight for as long as he had, obeying the order to lay low. Now though his bones were invigorated with the need for blood, for destruction. He soul burned brightly with the fires of hatred for his new found enemy and he was ready to strike with all the vengeance that the Kurdistani had in their hearts. Soon enough he'd get his chance, that was if Nicholas had any say in the matter. Zahawi and his men had won a great victory, Kurdistan was again safe for the moment until the Whaladyan military planned its next advance. While no doubt they'd come with an even more impressive force, he was assured that Zahawi expected this and had a plan. This, of course, was no concern for Nicholas as he'd already played his part in Zahawi's war. Now it was time for Zahawi to play his part in Nicholas's war against Al Whaladya. Zahawi had seen what Nicholas and his help could bring the freedom fighters of Kurdistan. He'd made good on his promise of good supplies and a military mind that could help train his men. No doubt with the Colonel's help, Zahawi men would be fighting like a professional European army in a weeks time. Ultimately though, all this came at a price and Nicholas impatiently wanted the price paid now. The time to strike at the heart of Al Whaladya was drawing near and, if he played his cards right, such a strike could give the Kurdistani the perfect diversion they needed to yet again obtain another great blow against their enemy. ____________________________________________________________ OOC: AW, if you wanted to have a conversation between the Count and your foreign minister, by all means consider him still in Al Whaladya and on his way to the airport. I'll reply in my next post but for now am going to assume he's left and now back in Moscow. IC: Count Tolstoy's flight back to Moscow was more brief than the flight from Moscow to Al Whaladya. Almost as soon as they were in the air, Tolstoy sent scanned copies of the photographs and information given to him back to Moscow. Arriving in Moscow sometime later, he was quickly brought from the airport back to the Kremlin where his audience was required before a meeting with the Emperor and his intelligence advisers. Among the men present at the meeting were of course Count Tolstoy, Emperor Ivan VIII, Prince Boris Ribbenzoph V (the Prime Minister), Count Peter Shuvalov (Minister of Internal Affairs), and Prince Anton Leiven (Minister of Defense). There was final guest to the table, though he was not immediately apart of his majesty's imperial council of ministers. No this man was Director Konstantine Beria of the Royal Security Services or KSB. An umbrella organization, the KSB was the Russian Empire's agency for intelligence both domestic as well as international. They fell under the Ministry of Internal Affairs and truth me told some of the departments of the KSB did not actually exist, at least not on paper. Each man took his respective seat along the long, rectangular oak table as the Emperor himself sat at the head. Count Tolstoy was the first to speak. "My counterpart in Al Whaladya forwarded me the information I sent ahead of my arrival back to Moscow. It seems we can confirm that Mr. Perov is in the country, the Kurdistan region. He's being accompanied by two gentlemen whose photographs were among the information I sent home. None of these individuals have made any demands as of yet and simply seem to be aiding the rebel terrorists." "If I may your majesty" Director Beria said as he rose. "The man to the left of photograph D here is Sebastian D'Artelles. Originally from Louisiana when it was a state of Confederate America, he was believed to be an agent of the Freedman's Bureau. After the CSA's defeat, the Bureau fell apart and Mr. D'Artelles trail also seems to go have gone cold. He has a few international assets, some of which have been recently sold, no doubt to fund whatever supplies are being given to the Taliban in the Kurdistan region. The other man, known simply as Nicholas, is still an unknown. We've run him using facial recognition software through every database we have access to as well as a few we've procured access to. The only record we personally have on him is a small report by one of our agents in Transcaucasia. He was spotted there a few months ago but at the time we had no information on him and he was not designated a target of interest so we did not follow up on him." "What would a former Confederate citizen have in common with a known Russian terrorist" the Emperor asked plainly. "Are they working together out of some kind of common hatred for the Russian crown?" "That is a possibility your majesty" the Director responded, "after all Russia was apart of the coalition that took down the Confederacy, though we believe Mr. D'Artelles also desired the government's collapse. That being said, however, we are also operating under the angle that Mr. D'Artelles and Mr. Perov are linked via this Nicholas character. Mr. Perov's other former associate is also being considered, although we've not encountered any information on him for many, many years now." "You don't think he's still alive do you?" the Emperor questioned, "He couldn't be and even if he was, he'd have to be in terrible physical shape. Certainly not in a state to organize any sort of terrorist organization or the like." "True your majesty, but this Nicholas fell could be a past prot�g�, perhaps someone who has taken up his former work." "If that is so then the situation is far more complicated and dangerous than we previously imagined" Said the Emperor gravely. "Continue to dig, I want anything and everything on this Nicholas as he simply did not just appear out of thin air. He had to have been born somewhere, there must be records and I want them. In the meantime, feed the Al Whaladyan government what they need to know, enough to keep them cooperative with us. Send them what we have on this D'Artelles fellow, the abridged version. We need to keep up the appearance that they need our assistance to ensure the lines of communication stay open. Also, lets work on a way to get our own agents on the ground, at least a team of two. I don't trust the security of the Empire to these Whaladyans any more than I would to the Scythirians. That is all for now, this meeting is adjourned...." _______________________________________________________________________ Dayr-az-Zawr, 24 Hours Later.... Just like clockwork and as promised by Count Tolstoy a second Russian jetliner touched down in the airport of the Al Whaladyan capital city. This time Ambassador Sergei Kovalchuk exited the plane and, after being greeted upon his arrival, was quickly taken off in an unmarked government car to where he would be allowed to stay for the duration of his visit here in Al Whaladya.



Whal	Oct 1 2013, 10:28 PM Post #27
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Fort Hatim Zahawi wasted no time in celebrating the victory at the Shah Ravine. As a matter of fact, a feast and celebration was organized for the council even as they returned home from the battle. However, Zahawi would not forget his brave soldiers either and the entire fort became a place of camaraderie, excitement, and festivity. The council elders, the Taliban's leadership, its soldiers, and even the Europeans fraternized together in a way that echoed how closely they had striven together the last few weeks. Morning brought seriousness once again to Fort Hatim as soldiers tiredly assumed their roles, and their leaders convened in the War Chamber for the discussion on what to do next. Contrary to the beginning of their struggle, council members approached Zahawi personally and shook his hand to congratulate him. Which at first they deemed cowardice later became obvious as Zahawi's patience and determination to outlast his enemies. No one doubted his authority and no one questioned his ability to lead, as to do so would certainly be political suicide at best. Now, as the Whaladyan forces in Iraq were severely weakened, the Taliban faced a new period of control over the flow of combat. Its course was left completely to Zahawi to dictate. "Gentlemen, we now face a difficult decision regarding where to take this conflict", Zahawi said addressing the assembly, "Our Whaladyan foes have been utterly defeated and largely driven from our lands, but I caution that this will not last long. No, my friends, I anticipate our enemies will be back in greater numbers and with a new found hatred that will surely be matched by our own. I expect we shall face a complete invasion from each and every aspect of the Whaladyan Armed Forces in an attempt to save the situation from turning into an international affair. This is something we do not want either, which puts the next phase of our conflict into a precarious state." The council nodded their heads and mumbled in agreement. Both Nicholas and Sebastian were amazed that no one spoke up to interject or comment. It appeared as though Zahawi had achieved almost God-like status within the War Chamber. "It is because of this impending Armageddon that I have decided that our operations must go immediately and completely underground", Zahawi continued to the shock of the Europeans, "If one studies the history of insurrections and guerilla movements, it is imperative to rationalize the proper moment to change your style of fighting. Only through a campaign of rapid guerilla warfare and terrorism will we be able to convince the Whaladyan government to abandon their claims over our land. Additionally, we must win the hearts and minds of every Kurdistani, every foreign resistance fighter, to side with us on this endeavor. Doing so will prevent our enemies from gaining access to the very people who can end this insurgency - ourselves. I cannot promise you a quick victory, and it is very likely we shall be at war for a long time. However, place your confidence in me and I assure you we will see the day when Kurdistan bows to none!" The council nodded and echoed Zahawi's sentiments. No one dared disagree and it appeared that no one truly did. Their own blunders and Zahawi's success had taught them to trust in his judgment. Sure they would sacrifice the Taliban's pride slightly, but her survival was the ultimate goal. However, for Nicholas, this new phase could pose troublesome. It sounded as if Zahawi was attempting a "winding down" of conflict rather than taking the fight to Al Whaladya. Moreover, he hadn't even consulted the European advisors! Likewise, it appeared Fatah Al-Din was also displeased with Zahawi's plans as he walked intently towards the leader. Nicholas followed in tandem. "May I have a word with you?", Al-Din asked of Zahawi in the background. "I must say I too have some concerns, Mr. Zahawi", Nicholas threw in towards the end. Zahawi took a seat and starred directly at both men, allowing them to speak. Nicholas was quick to advantage. ______________________________________ OOC: TBH, I hadn't planned to have a dialogue between them, so I think I'll just let Tolstoy return to Moscow. Benghazi was just being polite XD IC: Dayr-az-Zawr, Al Whaladya Proper "What were you thinking, you imbecile!?!?", Omar Al-Whaladya screamed at General Al-Khalid. Having been called back to Dayr-az-Zawr following the disastrous failure that was the WSF incursion into the Shah Ravine, General Al-Khalid was to be de-briefed and then sacked. With his spirit largely broken, Al-Khalid merely looked straight ahead as the Defense Minister berated him. "Not only have you squandered 2,500 of the Emirate's best infantry and countless armored units, you have disgraced the name of Al Whaladya's military and made us look absolutely inept and in need of foreign assistance!!!" Omar yelled, his arms flailing about, "What do you have to say for yourself?" "Sir, there was adequate reason to believe the enemy was headed towards a larger force and, commanding considerable strength, I thought it wise to pursue", General Al-Khalid said confidently. "Well, you surely found a larger force!!!", Omar taunted, "I find your reports on the matter inadequate and your decision to pursue the enemy to be ill-advised and utterly insipid. I therefore relieve you of your command over WNA and WNF forces in Kurdistan, effective immediately! Get the hell out of my sight!" General Al-Khalid rose from his seat, saluted the Defense Minister, and exited the room. It would be unlikely that he would ever hold a considerable command ever again. Just as Al-Khalid left the room, his replacement entered. General Tariq Khalifa was a tough, authoritarian type who had graduated from the nation's best military academy at the top of his class. He had served as Commander of Dayr-az-Zawr's garrison for years, and had recently seen action leading the Whaladyan Patriotic Front in the Crusades in Europe. A personal friend of the Emir's and trusted voice within the Whaladyan military, Khalifa was sure to rescue the situation from chaos. "Ah, Tariq", Omar said as General Khalifa entered, "I've never been happier to see you. Congratulations on obtaining this momentous achievement! You're going to rescue our operations in Kurdistan." "Its an honor to do such", General Khalifa stated, "Once I'm through, Zahawi will be shitting bricks all the way to incarceration." "Excellent, that's what I wanted to hear. Your getting it all, General. The entire 1st and 2nd Armies, plus the second WSF Regiment and quadruple the GFID presence! 600,000 men in total. I want this situation contained and I want it now!", Omar said, slamming his fist on the table. "I'll get right on it, Sir", General Khalifa said grinning. "Indeed you will, General", Omar said confidently, "We're deciding to implement Operation Hydra as soon as our informant can confirm Zahawi's plans. Knock out their leadership and everything falls into place." "Your giving me the green light on apprehending Zahawi?", Khalifa asked intently. Omar smiled as he looked at the map. Fort Hatim lay in the center and all avenues of attack were planned out weeks in advance. The Whaladyan military had plans to take Zahawi for weeks, but stalled due to lack of particular info. Now that the situation was dire enough, Operation Hydra was approved. Zahawi would be taken dead or alive. "Yes, General, you are cleared for everything", He said, "Now, get it done." ________________ Meanwhile, Ambassador Sergei Kovalchuk was ushered to his new office in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Immediately upon his arrival, the Russian diplomat was viewed with suspicion and contempt. Much to his dismay, but completely out of his hands, 2 GFID agents were posted as his "guides" for the duration of his stay. Sadly, since his arrival he had been hardly visited or consulted and the Russian felt his stay in Al Whaladya would be very unpleasant.



NRE	Oct 7 2013, 02:59 PM Post #28
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Nicholas smiled as he approached his words carefully. After all, what he said now in this candid meeting with Zahawi, especially with Fatah Al-Din present, would either continue to keep his welcome with the Taliban or cast him aside forever. Naturally, for his own purposes, the latter was not something he was particularly keen on seeing. "The Taliban's victory in the ravine was a stunning reminder to students of history, that the occupiers can never truly occupy forever. Certainly the Whaladyan government will think before they make their next move, a move I imagine will be more calculated and more deadly. That is why I can understand and respect your new plan of action. It is cautious, calculated, and will certainly allow the Taliban to operate against the new insurgency more easily that any time of open and outward defensive posture. Your people are truly bless to have someone of your strategic value helping them to lead their way to victory." "However, if I may voice one concern it would be this. The Whaladyans know you are a great threat now, here in Kurdistan. You've proven that it will take a great force of their own to strike at you if they wish to be victorious. While this is of course a good thing, the problem remains that for most Whaladyans the war is a world away. True victory and one that would be far less bloody for your people, can only be one if you break the Whaladyan public's will for a war. If the people do not wish for war and that desire is strong, the government will have little choice but to concede defeat. However, to defeat the people we must bring the war to the people. A strike in Al Whaladya proper, especially now, would not only give great shock and aw value but would greatly demoralize the people. How could they trust a military the win a war abroad when it cannot protect them at home? Surely you've given such a strategy a thought, have you not?"



Whal	Oct 9 2013, 01:53 PM Post #29
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Zahawi raised an eyebrow at Nicholas' proposal, but had not outwardly interrupted and still seemed slightly interested. On the contrary, Fatah Al-Din seemed visibly annoyed, however Nicholas surmised this was due to his own brazen seizure of the leader's attention and not rejection of terrorism. After a short pause, Zahawi spoke. "Indeed, you are not wrong my friend. I have considered striking at the Whaladyan public both directly and indirectly, however this course of action will take quite some time and take up many valuable resources both of which we do not have in great quantities. True, the public support for the Emir's war will diminish greatly, yet we will be drawing considerable attention from the international community, most notably the T.R.T. Moreover, our focus should be on the Kurdistani public for we have isolated many through our vengeful killings of collaborators. I'm not sure the time is quite right for a terror campaign yet." Fatah Al-Din was quick to further Zahawi's sentiments which shocked Nicholas who believed Al-Din to be a radical supporter of aggravated war on Al Whaladya. "Very wise decision indeed, Jakar", he said, eyes piercing Nicholas, "Such a campaign will only bring more international pressure upon our fighting men and tarnish our reputation. We need to focus on controlling our own people and preventing them from assisting the Whaladyans. Also, I must say this change in our fighting style is troubling and I believe we should reconsider. We just won a great victory! We should be pressing the attack to retake Khanaqin and As Sulaymaniyah and regain our honor and lost lands. This new plan promotes cowardliness!" "My friends, I appreciate your input", Zahawi said beginning to walk away, "However, the decision remains the same and the Taliban will be shifting its location immediately to the mountains. I suggest you pack and gather your gear because we are leaving at midnight." Zahawi walked away, but Nicholas was resolute in his plans. He took a moment to weigh his options and juggled the decision to follow and retry with Zahawi, request Perov's assistance, or to abandon the Taliban altogether. Al-Din simply stormed off in a different direction. He left the war room and quickly disappeared inside the massive compound. He was never followed too closely and being a commander allowed him certain privileges of privacy and military knowledge. Once he was positive he was alone and out of earshot, he removed a cellphone and quickly dialed the only number in the phone. A sketchily quiet and foreign voice answered in Arabic. "Zahawi and the rest are leaving tonight", Al-Din whispered, "I tried to convince them to abandon this guerilla campaign, but was unsuccessful. You need to act quickly before they disappear into the mountains." "Very well", the voice answered, "The GFID is being mobilized so you need to get out soon. Your country is proud of you, agent." Al-Din hung up the phone, broke in half, and threw it out the window into the desert. Within a few minutes he would disappear from the compound. __________________________________________________ Ramzi Military Base, Whaladyan controlled Kurdistan Several GFID commandos looked on intently at a television screen. Soon a wave of cheers flooded the room as the Whaladyan football team scored the game winning goal against their Semitistani rivals. The atmosphere was soon interrupted by the gloomy appearance of the group's CO who commanded they report the briefing room immediately. "Gentlemen, Operation Hydra has just been confirmed by high up", the Officer exclaimed, "The moment we've all been waiting for has been approved, we're going after Zahawi, so gather your gear!" The commandos snickered and pat each other on the back. Many had wrestled with the knowledge of Zahawi's location for sometime, but now they would finally be able to act upon it. With the invasion of the 1st and 2nd armies, the timing seemed perfect. The group was briefed on the situation and went over the annoyingly familiar plan one last time. Within a short amount of time the commandos were loaded into the helicopters and on their way. The 35 man assault team crept off quietly on their route to Fort Hatim. Soon, they hoped, it would be over.



NRE	Oct 14 2013, 03:37 PM Post #30
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Nicholas soon walked back to the barracks where he and Sebastian had been staying. He found Sebastian tidying up his cot and as both me had only brought with them what personal effects they could fit in their pockets, it was really all he could do while others packed their own equipment. Sebastian, noticing Nicholas as he walked into the room with his head shaking, inquired as to what seemed to be the matter. "Oh nothing much my dear friend" Nicholas said. "Zahawi not willing to budge on his position" asked Sebastian. "Well yes, but that's not really what's bothering me" Nicholas said. "You know that feeling you get when you know you just don't like someone, but can't understand why. That's what's bothering me" "Really, hope its not me" Sebastian replied. Nicholas chuckled, "No, no my friend its not you. Anyways, I suppose it doesn't matter now." Nicholas checked his watch, "its about time we leave." "Yes I know, I was told we're heading for the mountains." "No my friend" said Nicholas, "its time we leave the Taliban. At least for a short while, I need time to think as well as to orchestrate the true plan. I find I can do it here among these men and such, an certainly won't be able to do it underground." "Ah, shall I go retrieve Perov then?" "No" said Nicholas, "the Colonel can take care of himself. Besides, I not dare take him away from the fight now as he's enjoying himself far too much. When the time comes we'll send for him or return for him, depends on the time. I assume you're all packed yes?" "Have been for days now really" Sebastian said. "Good then we should be off" Nicholas said as he turned for the door. Just then the German, Koenig, walked in. It was something that had been weighing on Nicholas's mind for sometime now and though he had a schedule to keep, he couldn't help but ask. "Mr. Koenig" Nicholas said, "I have to say that I've been meaning to ask for sometime but what does bring a German all the way out here?"



Whal	Oct 15 2013, 12:39 PM Post #31
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Koenig smiled before answering, "I suppose I could ask the same question of a Russian and an American, no?" Nicholas looked on at the man he had worked so closely with for a moment, shrugged, and quickly began assisting Sebastian in packing their belongings. Nicholas had hoped for an actual answer rather than another one of Koenig's sly remarks, but time was of the essence and he wanted to leave Fort Hatim before the Taliban. Koenig put his hands in his pockets and leaned against the doorframe. "Leaving ahead of schedule are we?", He asked inquisitively, apparently aware of the true reason for their departure. "Yes, unfortunately", Nicholas remarked, "I believe we have done a sufficient job as of late, wouldn't you agree?" Koenig raised an eyebrow, "Oh, no doubt gentlemen. Your assistance to the cause has been most helpful. It is just unfortunate that you are leaving just as things have heated up. Not fans of caves are you, gentlemen?" He finished with a light chuckle. Nicholas smiled, realizing his associate's light hearted remark. He had a feeling Koenig wouldn't inform Zahawi of their departure, and he realized he would miss the German's optimism. "You know?", Nicholas began, "We would not object to your company should you wish to come along. A person of your character is always needed where men like us go." Sebastian scoffed, "Oh yes, Koenig. Please do come along". He shoved the sheet audibly into his rucksack. "Oh, no my friends, I simply could not", The German responded. "My business here has not yet been concluded. No, I imagine that I'll stay on till the end." Nicholas nodded in slight disappointment, but resolved that he would see Koenig again. After all, the Taliban still posed the greatest vehicle to deliver a strike to the Whaladyan government. He reached out his hand to formally say goodbye to his associate. Koenig replied with an iron-like handshake as the two men said their goodbyes. Suddenly, as the two let go, an audible and earth shattering explosion rocked the foundation of the fort. Both men, as well as Sebastian, were knocked off balance and onto the floor as a thin layer of dust coated them from the falling ceiling. Shortly after, subsequent minor explosions continued to rock the fort. Unknown to any of the men inside, the GFID raid on Fort Hatim had commenced. "Shiesse, what in God's name is happening!?", Koenig screamed as he headed towards the door. "Good luck, gentlemen. May God be with you." He said turning back to Sebastian and Nicholas. "You as well, my friend", Nicholas yelled back, as he got to his feet. Suddenly, Koenig turned to them once more before leaving. "Nicholas!", he yelled to get the Russian's attention. "Federal Abwehr.....The reason I was here. I was former Abwehr." He then ran down the hallway to find Zahawi. Nicholas was confused, but there was no time to contemplate it now. He quickly grabbed all his equipment and helped Sebastian to his feet. Together both me ran from the room and darted down the hallway in the other direction. They could not risk becoming prisoners of who ever was attacking the fort. Meanwhile, the GFID raid on the fort was going smoothly for the Whaladyan commandos. Having snuck in covertly using their stealth equipped helicopters, the commandos silently entered the fort's airspace before repelling down into the courtyard. As they infiltrated the fort, the commandos executed the guards without alerting suspicion, and placed demolition charges on the multiple entrances. The explosions heard earlier were the commandos breaching the fort's primary building - Zahawi's personnel residence and the strategic hub in the center. Within minutes the GFID had entered the fort with "kill or capture" orders for Zahawi and other key personnel. The startled insurgents were caught doily unprepared, and were largely wiped away. Zahawi himself, who was taking a short nap in his quarters, was awoken by the blast with only minutes to react before the commandos would be at his door. His personnel body guards were quick to organize a defense of his quarters, whilst their leader attempted an impromptu escape. Shortly thereafter, the GFID fought their way into Zahawi's personal quarters and engaged his only remaining insurgents. The body guards managed to kill one of the commandos, but were immediately eliminated. As they searched the room, Zahawi managed to scale down a window and fell into the courtyard. There he was spotted by some of the commandos who promptly shot at him. He was hit in the shoulder, but escaped to cover in a tiny outlaying tower on the edge of the massive cliff surrounding the eastern side of the fort. The commandos, ignoring the primacy of his capture, radioed for one of their attack helicopters to fire upon the tower. The helicopter's cannons and rockets obliterated the building to pieces and its foundations came undone; collapsing backwards into the giant lake below. Zahawi was confirmed dead even as his body was never found; and helicopters would search the lake for weeks with no physical evidence. With the compound secured, 60 or more insurgents killed, and over 20 key personnel apprehended the GFID packed up onto their helicopters and exited the fort. The massive explosion they set after their departure drowned out by their cheers of jubilation. It was finally over. From a couple hundred meters away a small contingent that had escaped the fort looked on in horror. They remained hidden in the tall desert grass as the helicopters flew directly overhead. Among them, Colonel Perov and Koenig looked at one another in disbelief. They appeared to be the only ones among the group that had sat upon the military counsel, and without Zahawi, were the only likely candidates for leadership. Many of the insurgents looked worn and defeated. "Come now boys", Perov said reassuringly, "Lets get to the mountains." The small group of fighters moved slowly and fatigued in the direction of the looming mountains in the distance. ________________________________________________________ A few hours later, Ramzi Military Base The helicopters carrying the commandos and their prisoners landed in Ramzi later that night. As they touched down, a jubilant General Tariq Khalifa looked on with a wide grin. He had done it. He had defeated the Taliaban's leader and Zahawi was now his prisoner. As the helicopter's rear doors opened, the commandos began leading the masked terrorists out and presented them to the general for inspection. "Alright, well done men", General Khalifa said full of pride. "Which one of you dogs is Jakar Zahawi?" He said tauntingly. He gaze shifting from prisoner to prisoner. The masked men shook and looked at one another, but otherwise said nothing. The general repeated his question once more this time yelling at the prisoners. Some of the began shaking erratically whilst others looked on unafraid. One man wet himself. A commando ran over to the general. "General, Zahawi was confirmed KIA at the scene", he said confidently. Some of the prisoners began weeping. General Khalifa became enraged. "What do you mean KIA?", he yelled. "You were supposed to capture him alive!!" "Yes, General, but he posed too determined to be captured and we were forced to dispatch him", the commando uttered. "I saw him die myself, Sir." "Dammit!", General Khalifa yelled, "You saw him, you're absolutely sure!" The commando nodded in affirmation and claimed the helicopter pilot could verify. General Khalifa was irate despite their victory. He wanted terribly to impress the Defense Minister and the Emir with Zahawi's capture. He, rather suddenly, un-holstered his pistol and executed three of the prisoners himself. Their lifeless bodies collapsed onto the ground sending red upon the sand. The remaining prisoners fell to their knees and began praying. The General refrained from further bloodshed and turned to an agent beside him. "Get these bastards to our interrogation center in Hamzi", He said angrily, "I'll bet Major Guz will be pleased with more play things." The agent saluted and began rounding up the remaining prisoners into trucks. Soon they would be off for torture and extreme interrogation. Even though the Whaladyan military had won a great victory that night, the situation in Kurdistan was far from over. Rather, the war had entered a new stage. The re-occupation of Whaladyan Iraq would now have to commence. No doubt, counter-insurgency measures would have to be implemented on a massive scale. Soon news of the mission was broadcast on television stations throughout the Middle East. Edited by Whal, Oct 15 2013, 12:39 PM.



NRE	Oct 15 2013, 03:41 PM Post #32
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	"And this was my good shirt too" Nicholas scoffed, still trying to dust himself off. Not entirely sure how, but he and Sebastian had made their way out of the Fort although they had, from a distance, seem the plumes of smoke that began billowing in the air when everything was all said and done. They traveled east and had come upon the same small town they'd arrived in, a town so insignificant that it did not register on most maps of the are, at least that Nicholas new of. They rented a room above a local tea house for the time being so Nicholas could think. They didn't expect to have any problems, locals seemed to keep to themselves but knowing Nicholas, Sebastian imagined they wouldn't be staying long anyhow. "So I guess the party's over now, huh Nicholas?" Sebastian asked Nicholas smirked, "No my friend...really the opposite when you think about it. The party is just now beginning but it would seem the move is ours to make." "But the Taliban, think enough survived to help...we really need their help." "True, we can't pull off the final act without our supporting cast but this attack changed the script. I need to time to see what the next lines are. Plus, I imagine what's left of the Taliban has made for the mountains but its too dangerous to get a hold of them just yet." "So we sit and wait?" "No, we sit, wait, and have tea of course" Nicholas said with a smile. ____________________________________________________________________ What exhilaration that had infused Colonel Perov with just a youthful incineration had since left and he was now feeling particularly old and outdated. It could have been the fact that he was surrounded by worn and distraught faces, a beaten soldiers face is sometimes highly contagious. Still, being the old pro that he was, he didn't let the men seen his own frustrations in his face and instead soldier on until they reached the mountains. One thing that did worry him however, was whether or not the men would actually follow him or Koenig. After all, neither were son's of the land nor did either have the sort of charisma that Zahawi had. Still he'd stuck with the men this far and he was well prepared to see this thing through to the end. After some twist and turning mountain trails the boys finally came to the caves and began settling in. Knowing the men were tired, Perov suggested they get some sleep. It took days to get to the mountains anyhow and he knew he didn't have a plan as of yet. When he finally had some time alone with Koenig, Perov sat down to discuss their situation. His deep Russian accent was particularly heavy, no down from the frustration in his own heart over the situation. "I don't know about you my friend, bu a good shot or two of Vodka sounds good right about now." Koenig smirked. "I didn't see Nicholas or Sebastian" Perov continued, "I imagine they went their own way. Nicholas is a good man though, he's not fair I am sure and we'll see him again before this is all over. I don't know about you, but I have my doubts that the men will follow us as they did Zahawi. They need another victory, something particularly good so as not only to send the message that the Taliban is still strong but also as a personal vengeance for Zahawi's death. If we can give them that, they'll probably follow us to hell and back." _____________________________________________________ Dayr-az-Zawr..... Though a bit through second-hand sources, Ambassador Kovalchuk was alert to the major raid on Fort Hatim. Naturally, little other information came his way in the moments of the attack or after. A bit frustrated, he left the small office afforded to him to seek out the Whaladyan Foreign Minister for an update. Naturally, his "guides" were in quick pursuit of him as soon as he left his office though he paid them little mind. Either they'd stop him dead in his tracks or just have to follow him, either way he was going to find out what exactly went down and who, if anyone, was captured. Reaching the Foreign Minister's secretary, he quickly announced "I wish to speak with the Minister, right away please..." Edited by NRE, Oct 18 2013, 02:46 PM.



Whal	Oct 16 2013, 07:47 PM Post #33
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Posted Image "Allahu Akbar!", The Whaladyan National Army soldier proclaimed proudly to the militia squad posing in front of him. The squad echoed his words as the soldier snapped the picture. The men dispersed along the road and checked the dozen or so dead bodies around them for valuables. Minutes before, many of these now dead men and women had been their neighbors. For years they had lived side by side; Kurds and Arabs, Shias and Sunnis. Now, however, the arrival of the Whaladyan forces back into Kurdistan had prompted a massive rise in "revenge killings" throughout the region. Officially, the Whaladyan soldiers were ordered to maintain order and prevent any acts of internal conflict, but the primarily Arab Whaladyan soldiers were indifferent to the pleas of many Kurdish villagers as their Arabic neighbors organized "death squads" and dragged them from their homes. In this particular case, the small 2nd Army scout contingent watched eagerly as their Arabic Iraqi brothers pulled the Kurdish civilians from their homes and brutally murdered them. Scenes of a similar caliber were evident all across the Whaladyan occupied zones as every good deed performed by the Whaladyan occupiers was overshadowed by their complacency in allowing the "death squads" to operate openly and without significant intervention. Indeed, many in the military acquainted the killings with justice for an Arabic minority who was viciously persecuted under the brief and brutal rule of the Kurdish Taliban. Non-Kurdish women were stoned, Shia Arab men burned alive, and their children subject to vicious torture from the Talibani insurgents. Even though many of the Kurds themselves were subject to similar treatment for supporting the Whaladyans, the attitude among the newly liberated non-Kurds was one of hatred towards their Kurdish neighbors. The militia squad piled into their pick-ups and sped down the road towards the next village. The Whaladyan contingent looked on indifferently as the erupting sounds of AK fire and screams erupted in the distance... __________________________________________________________ *Somewhere in the Ganji Mountains* Koenig had managed to sneak out of the fort just as the GFID assaulted Zahawi's residence. Having been unable to reach the Talibani leader's room, Koenig made a break for the armory and managed to link up with Colonel Perov and some of insurgents guarding some of the new weapons. Together, the group fled through an underground escape tunnel leading several meters out of the fort and into the wilderness. They had walked for several days before reaching the Ganjis, and were downtrodden and immensely tired. With Zahawi, Fatah al-Din, and most of the council killed, missing, or in disarray, the two Europeans were faced with a precarious situation on where to take the direction of their war. Koenig reasoned the Taliban was still eager to fight, and he had confidence the Colonel and himself could lead the Taliban effectively until another leader arrived or perhaps al-Din, or Zahawi had made it out alive. However, he agreed with Perov that the men needed a victory, if not just a small one to prove the cause was not lost. "I couldn't agree more, my friend", Koenig stated, gulping his shot down. "We need to show the Whaladyan military the Taliban has not vanished from this region. However, what to do exactly is the crucial question?" "That depends", Perov said, pouring himself another shot. "What is our current strength in relation to the enemies'?" Koenig's head dropped before speaking, "My sources claim we have 10,000 men to our enemies 500,000 or more. Plus, now we have these death squads among the local population to deal with. We need to reclaim the trust of the public this time. Zahawi was a great military leader, but he squandered the admiration of a his own public through a policy of indifference towards his lieutenant's abuse of them. If we are going to do this right we need to protect all of the public, whilst also gaining their trust so as too deny the Whaladyans of their intell. Perov began to physically respond to the news in a similar fashion to Koenig. He poured a third shot. "Also, its obvious we can't fight the Whaladyan military head on now", Koenig continued, "Therefore, I say we obtain our first victory by engaging these death squads. The elimination of such will show the people that the Taliban has not vanished, and that we are here for their protection. Once we have the admiration of the public we can proceed with Zahawi's original plan of a prolonged insurgency." _____________________________________________________________ *Dayr-az-Zawr...* The secretary looked up at Ambassador Kovalchuk and smiled a very fake smile. "I'm sorry the Foreign Minister is not in today. Can I take a message?" Kovalchuk looked at her skeptically, and then shifted his gaze to the Minister's slightly ajar door. The GFID "guides" politely gestured for him to follow, but the Russian made a quick dash to the Minister's door. Kovalchuk was tired being placed in diplomatic isolation by the Whaladyan government and was forced to take measures into his own hands. He entered Benghazi's room just as he was signing some documents. The Minister quickly closed the folder. "Foreign Minister Benghazi", Kovalchuk began, "I'm terribly sorry to barge in unannounced, but there are some pressing matters I need to discuss with you." Benghazi smiled, put the folder away, and gestured for the GFID to wait outside. They reluctantly closed the doors behind them. "No, It is quite alright, Mr. Ambassador", Benghazi replied. "You understand my job requires me to meet with a lot of individuals so there is need for some digression. Anyway, what can I do for you today? Is there something wrong?" Edited by Whal, Oct 16 2013, 07:49 PM.



NRE	Oct 18 2013, 02:58 PM Post #34
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Dayr-az-Zawr... Ambassador Kovalchuk smiled a bit, taking a seat though none was initially offered to him. It was a lukewarm smile at best. "Foreign Minister Benghazi, it has come to my attention that the Whaladyan government has conducted a major strike against the Taliban. While I can understand secrecy and discretion, fearing at most that perhaps you have spies among you, I was wondering if I could be briefed on the situation. After all, I was under the impression our governments had an agreement and while I'm not suggesting you've caught Mr. Perov an haven't told me, I've not be told differently either." __________________________________________________________ The Ganji Mountains.... The Colonel shook his head in agreement. "Yes, dealing with these militant death squads seems like a reasonable course of action. Of course, I assume by the public you mean the Arabs as well as the Kurds?" The Colonel continued before his german counterpart could respond. "This reminds me of my olds days in the Imperial Army. Winning hearts and minds was a staple of our job abroad and when we first occupied Georgia it was necessary to ensure to the Georgians that we Russians came in peace. Dealing with local resistance helped show we meant business but bringing food and water to those Georgians most in need, showed we truly came in peace." "The situation here, while different, is also very similar. While I agree dealing with these death squads is both the public and morale boosting victory we need, I feel organizing an underground relief effort would also help further sway public opinion. After all, while I've only been here a short time I've not heard of any Whaladyan convoys coming in with bread and water. If you think we can get them men into the villages and towns with the supplies, I can get us the supplies."



Whal	Oct 18 2013, 07:42 PM Post #35
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Dayr-az-Zawr Benghazi smiled politely as Kovalchuk spoke his mind. Although, he was fully aware, and partly responsible, for the Russian diplomat's informational isolation his hands were tied. He read off his issued response to the Russian by memory. "I apologize for the delay in information, Mr. Ambassador", Benghazi began, "Indeed, the GFID have conducted a military operation in Kurdistan with the desired results. The Talibans leader, Jakar Zahawi, and several of his associates were killed or captured." Benghazi was explicite in his apparent withholding of any mention of Colonel Perov, because the Whaladyan governement was unaware of his location, and truthfully, embarrassed they were unable to apprehend him. "As far as your office not recieving direct updates", he continued, "I will do my best to personally assure that the Ministry staff is properly delivering the desired information to you directly." Benghazi then directed Kovalchuk to a coffee machine in the corner. "May I offer you some tea?" ______________________________________________ The Ganji Mountains.. "Oh i have no doubt we will be able to infiltrate the cities and the countryside", Koenig responded. "The Taliban are masters of hiding in plain sight, and would be able to deliver relief to the peoples of the region as long as said supplies arrive on foot initially to bypass the Whaladyan roadblocks." "Also, yes Colonel, we must provide relief and protection to all the residents of Kurdistan no matter thier religious or ethnic background. If the Taliban wants to persecute civilains then they may do that after thet have secured thier independence, the Whaladyan governement is long gone, and you and I have left the country. Until then, the Taliban will be known for its defiance of an oppresive regime and assitance to its starving people", Koneig stated passionately. Perov nodded in agreement before speaking, "What do you propose we do about these death squads?" Koneig smiled, "What the Taliban does best, Colonel. We convert them or we remove them. By tomorrow morning, we will have identified thier leaders and reached out to them to cease thier activities or join our cause. Should they refuse, we must be ready to engage them covertly. We musn't alert the Whaladyans just yet."



NRE	Oct 19 2013, 10:29 PM Post #36
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	The Ganji Mountains.. "Agreed" said the Colonel, "though I should add that if many are defiant to us at first we should make sure the first killings are done both efficiently as well as brutally as possible. Killing a man while he sleeps in his bed is one thing, killing and dismembering the body with no one being alerted is certainly another. The militias just as well as the Whaladyans must be taught that we men business." The Colonel then began checking his pockets before procure the phone he'd be issued. "I'll make the call about the supplies at once" he stated, "I am sure we can have them in the country by the end of tomorrow. I'll leave the rest of the preparations in your capable hands my friend as you've been with these men far longer than I. I don't mind taking second chair, so to speak" he stated finally with a slight chuckle and smile." ________________________________________________________ Dayr-az-Zawr "Thank you but no thank" the Ambassador replied politely before rising from his seat. "I have no doubt that we will be speaking again Foreign Minister though I'm sure it will be about properly processing Mr. Perov so that he can stand trial in Russia for his immense crimes." Leaving for the door, Kovalchuk opened it only to find himself surrounded once again by his guides. Not stopping to see if they were coming or not the Ambassador walked back to his office and took a seat behind his small desk. Taking out his cell phone he began composing a text message, afraid that ears were everywhere, to be sent back to Moscow. The message was received quickly back home, its contents were basic. He expressed his dismay with the Al-Whaladyan government and the lack of cooperation they were giving. This did not surprise the Foreign Minister who, in turn, expressed these sentiments to the Emperor. Not wanting to lose Perov again, Ivan decided to authorize the use of their own spy satellites in order to get a better idea of the situation on the ground. If need be, he was even consulting with the Defense Minister over the use of a spy drone.



Whal	Oct 21 2013, 07:05 PM Post #37
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Dayr-az-Zawr... Foreign Minister Benghazi waited for Ambassador Kovalchuk to leave the room before he picked up the direct line to the GFID Headquarters. Wasting no time, he called and demanded to speak with Marshal Usama immediately. Once he heard the friendly voice on the other end, Benghazi spoke. "The Russian is beginning to ask questions about this Colonel Perov", Benghazi stated flatly. "Are we any closer to finding him?" A short pause. "No, stall him if possible", came the Marshal's reply. "And if he becomes persistent?", Benghazi asked nervously. "I think we need to expect the possibility that the Russians might intervene covertly." "They might try, but we shall stop them. The Emir said absolutely no foreign intervention", The Marshal responded coldly. "Don't let him breath, Benghazi. Have our agent's check his phone if need be". Benghazi agreed and hung up the phone. Later that night, he had the GFID guides with Kovalchuk apprehend the Ambassador's phone whenever they could. The Russian rarely left his cell phone unattended, and the GFID agents had to accompany him wherever he went. Luckily for the Whaladyans, Kovalchuk naturally left his phone in his bag to relieve himself. One agent followed him, whilst the other stayed back to retrieve information from the phone. Before Kovalchuk had returned the GFID was soon to discover his message to Moscow. ______________________________________________________________________________________________ The Ganji Mountains..... "Very well, Colonel" Koenig replied, "However, If I know these men correctly, neither of us will have much luck in gaining their full support. The sooner that call can be made to your associates the sooner we can begin regaining the people's trust. I'll inform the men to send out a message to all the death squad leaders tonight, so that hopefully by tomorrow we can have an idea of who's with us and who's no longer in business." Colonel Perov nodded and shook Koenig's hand before retiring to his tiny mat in the corner of the cave. It had been a while since he had slept on the cold hard ground, but Perov was a strong individual and he could weather the storm. He wondered how Nicholas was fairing somewhere out in the Iraqi dessert, but he reasoned that he would see the man soon. He took out the phone and dialed the number for his associates before he dosed off. The supplies would arrive tomorrow afternoon. Outside the cave complex, the Taliban's messengers spread out all across the region to deliver their ultimatum to the death squads. Many of the leaders responded negatively to the Taliban's demands; several messengers were promptly murdered or beaten to send a message that the killings would continue undisturbed. Worse still, some of the messengers were turned into Whaladyan forces stationed nearby and were tortured for information before being executed. Thankfully, the insurgents were loyal and no concrete evidence was given to the enemy. The next morning the Taliban would have to act.



NRE	Oct 22 2013, 03:14 PM Post #38
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	The Ganji Mountains..... The next morning Colonel Perov awoke and did is usual routine stretches, going out and encourage many of the men who were also awake to join him. Though hesitant, some of the men did join him as he preached "a limber body is a weapon all its own my friends." Not longer after finishing his exercises he was approached by Koenig who'd also been up for sometime. "It was as I fear Colonel" the German said, "it seems most of the death squads are willing to press on and have no interest in a deal with us." "Unfortunate" said the Colonel, "but not unexpected as we discussed last night." "indeed, so we're preparing the men for a strike." "Good" said the Colonel, "Do we know who the strongest of these squads are. I imagine if we truly wish to send a strong message from the beginning, taking out the strongest squad first would be the best message we could send. Also, I was informed last night that food supplies shall be hear by the evening, I expect them to be airdropped in this general location so we should organize some men to regularly patrol the area so as to spot them, they'll be coming in low as to not alert radar and will be using the twilight hours to mask their approach."



Whal	Oct 25 2013, 12:14 PM Post #39
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	"Excellent, Colonel!", Koenig exclaimed at Perov's news. "Fortunately for the Taliban, it appears that we will need as much food as we can get." Koenig's facial expressions explained that the German had some important news of his own. "Why? Is our current quantity inefficient?", Perov questioned, taking a reprieve from his stretches. The men continued, albeit awkwardly, without him. Koenig's eyes became fixated on Perov, and a small grin appeared on the German's face. He took a moment of silence before his attention then turned towards the men all around him. With raised voice, Koenig addressed the Taliban. "Men, listen up!", Koenig shouted, "As you might have heard, the Whaladyan National Army has begun a policy of food and water collectivization following their occupation. This means that not only are the residents of this region not receiving food aide, but the Whaladyans are confiscating the little food your families do have to feed their massive military presence!" The insurgents stopped their tasks and began to crowd around Koenig and Perov. Many were grumbling with one another and began shouting obscenities directed towards their enemies. "Death to the invaders!", one shouted. "No more oppression!", another yelled. "I know men!", Koenig responded. "As if Whaladyan sponsored death squads weren't enough, now our enemies are attempting to starve us into submission! This will not happen under our vigil, and the supplies being brought in by the Colonel's associates will help to offset this rampant and unjustified theft from your people. We must begin to reclaim the trust of the people here, and to do this we will start by eliminating these death squads and delivering food to all who are starving. No longer shall you be a divided people, but a people united against the Whaladyan foe!" The Taliban around the two men began cheering and shooting their guns in the air. Many approached Perov after Koneig's speech and thanked him personally for his efforts. It seemed as though the two Europeans could most definitely lead these men to victory. What was still yet to be determined, however, was whether or not the Taliban could effectively supply the whole region with food. The Whaladyans had done an amazing job of confiscating the regions food, and guarding it against any who would attempt to steal it. Hopefully, Perov's associates could keep the region supplied long enough for the Taliban to obtain more recruits and effectively combat the Whaladyans once again. Until then, however, there were death squads to neutralize, and thus the insurgents were gifted an opportunity to express their anger. Koenig ordered the men to disperse among the region and put an end to the squad's reign of terror. He put emphasis on capturing their leaders and executing them in gruesome spectacles to instill fear in their supporters, as well, as to show the Whaladyans that the Taliban would not simply disappear. This new phase of the war would be ushered by a new principal - the winning of hearts and minds. _________________________________________________________________________ As Subaq'na village, Southwest Kurdistan The tiny cross road village of As Subaq'na, in the middle of the desert in southwestern Kurdistan, was so insignificant that it was rarely listen on maps and was virtually unknown to anyone who wasn't a resident of the region. However, even it's remoteness would not save it from the roving bands of the Hashashin, the largest of the Whaladyan supported Shia Arab death squads. The particular morning of their arrival had been a morning not dissimilar to any other morning in the village, yet the residents of As Subaq'na would never forget what they would see that day. The process would begin very much the same as it had been for the past reveal days. The Hashashin would arrive quickly and without warning; entering the village from multiple directions and firing their weapons in the air much like they always had. The village residents, dazed and confused, would scramble to leave the village or barricade themselves inside their homes. Both efforts would be futile, as the militia would brutally execute all fleeing civilians they could catch, while burning down the homes of those who attempted to defend themselves. The unlucky few who did survive the initial assault would be rounded up and corralled into a central area in the village center. There, in the center of town, their non-Kurdish neighbors would be invited to take part in the killings to follow. The executions would not be quick, and many would be brutalized by the Hashashin, as well as their non-Kurdish neighbors before their bodies were mutilated or displayed. In As Subaq'na, the process would begin as usual with the invasion, quick killings, and subsequent round up of all Kurds. However, today's ethnic cleansing would not go as planned, and almost as soon as the executions began they were interrupted by the sounds of distant gunfire and the triumphant cheers of an advancing unknown force. Soon the invaders would become the besieged, as multiple technicals carrying a superior number of armed insurgents had appeared and began combating the Hashashin. Through the smoke and explosions, the residents had began to recognize they're liberators by their distinctive red shemaghs. The Taliban had arrived, and they were angry! Multiple militiamen fell dead into the dirt as the Taliban charged into the village center. Small firefights erupted between the alleys and city streets, as civilians ran for cover and men on both sides violently killed one another. Eventually, the Taliban overcame their enemies and managed to capture a small group the militia, including their captain. Wishing to send a message, the Taliban decapitated the lower ranking militiamen, whilst the captain was taken to a pole in the center of the village. There he has doused in gasoline and promptly set ablaze by the Taliban much to their delight and the delight of the village residents. The Taliban would spare only one of the militiamen, for his job was to warn the rest of the death squads to cease their activities or suffer a similar fate. Once the Taliban has secured the village they would distribute any food they were given, re-enter their vehicles, and leave the non-Kurdish villagers to their fate. Indeed, Colonel Perov's advice to act quickly and brutally was eagerly adopted by the Taliban. The sight was definitely not forgotten by two particular individuals hiding quietly in a small inn overlooking the village center. Quiet, shaking, and terrified both Nicholas and Sebastian watched the event with a mixture of terror and fascination. Perhaps the Taliban had not been wiped out and, in fact, were still a viable option to bring the war home to Al Whaladya. Only time would tell.



NRE	Oct 26 2013, 12:55 AM Post #40
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	"Well that was quite close" Sebastian said as he slowly crept from out of his hiding place. "Indeed" said Nicholas who was brushing himself off. The two were had certainly been terrified by the scene they'd witnessed just outside the window of their room at the inn. Sebastian more than Nicholas really and the terrified feeling Nicholas had did not come some much from the thought of dying but more from his own inhibition to see such an attack coming. He had not anticipated a death squad coming to such a sleepy and isolated town, that it had made him realize he'd gravely miscalculated his moved. "Seem the Taliban did not all die out, perhaps Colonel Perov is with them" Sebastian said. "Of that I have no doubt, I am sure the German as well" Nicholas stated. "If I had to guess they went underground as was the plan. The doubt they're hitting these death squads to use them as a rallying cry to build their numbers back." "The food doesn't hurt either I imagine" Sebastian stated after seeing some of the villagers taking small boxes home. "These people have been barely getting by." "Yes" said Nicholas, "to win the hearts and minds. Its a sound strategy and will work well for the Taliban. Perhaps not everything has been lost and we may still succeed with our plans. Come Sabastian, we need to pack." "Where are we going now Nicholas?" "I need to see the Whaladyan capital for myself, make some mental notes" Nicholas stated planly. "Don't you think they may catch us?" said Sebastian. "Leave that to me Sebastian" said Nicholas, "I just need to scope out a few locations, we won't be long. Then we'll come back and find Colonel and the men. Hopefully by then the Taliban will be in a better position to help us."



Whal	Oct 27 2013, 10:13 PM Post #41
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Aleppo, Al Whaladya Proper With the nature of events in Kurdistan seemingly winding down, the Whaladyan government's attention began shifting towards new projects. Dayr-az-Zawr might be the symbolic and cultural center of the Emirate, but Aleppo, with its high percentage of factories and manufacturing plants, was the nation's premier industrial output center. It was also the sight the nation's only nuclear reactor; a source for nuclear power and a potential zone of interest for the Emirate's enemies. Therefore, security at the Aleppo nuclear facility was heightened and weekly visits by government scientists was a common occurrence. However, on rare occasions, members of the Whaladyan political elite would inspect the facility personally and discuss the future of the nuclear program. Today, in particular, the facility was host to the Defense Minister, Foreign Affairs Minister, and the Marshal. Their discussion was focused heavily on the security of the facility, but also on the future of the Kurdistan occupation. "Do you actually think the Taliban has the reach, or even the slightest idea, to attack the reactor?", Benghazi questioned, as the trio walked briskly down a white hallway. The Marshal scowled at his associate's question, "I cannot say for sure, however, they definitely posses the will to strike us at our most vulnerable areas. The Russians seemed to think that this Perov might attempt to harness our nuclear capabilities to -." "Don't speak about the Russians", Omar Al-Whaladya interrupted angrily, "Those snakes are planning on organizing their own operations inside our territory I just know it." Apparently, the Russian ambassador's phone messages had been deciphered by the GFID and their consequences had left a bitter taste in the mouth of the Whaladyan leadership. The group remained silent as they made the transition from the hallway into a large room will multiple types of machinery. The facility's staff was working diligently to complete the balancing of certain statistics, and the arrival of the politicians elicited little attention. "When will these formulas and tests be finalized?", Benghazi questioned, his eyes focused on a large main screen. "The scientists estimate that we will have military grade uranium capabilities within the next 4 years", The Marshal answered, sensing Benghazi's true question. The Defense Minister smiled briefly, but then resumed his unpleasant demeanor. The reactor, the entire facility rather, had the potential to severely damage the entire city for years should it fall victim to an attack. Looking at the Marshall, he spoke. "We need to step up security here in Aleppo, as well as increase our crack downs in Kurdistan. We need to break the Taliban's will to continue the fight if we are to end their insurgency and protect our own lands from terrorism. We should approach the Emir about using some of our nerve agents to crush their spirit?", Omar stated flatly. "Chemical weapons?", Benghazi replied astounded. "Think of the international backlash. We already have enough to worry about with the ethnic violence and you want to add dirty bombs?" The Marshall, ever calm, interjected to end the argument, "It doesn't matter what we choose anyway; Its up to his majesty to decide. We may only advise, and I must say I agree with Omar. Perhaps we should lighten our load of nerve agents by selling them to our friends in Kurdistan?" Benghazi was appalled, but he remained silent on the issue. Nothing he said would matter anyway, and if his partners wanted to sell nerve gas to the Hashashin then they would likely get their way. Ultimately, it was up to the Emir to decide.



NRE	Oct 29 2013, 01:37 PM Post #42
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Nicholas smiled as he took a few snapshots with his camera. He and Sebastian had made it to Al-Whaladya proper which was something of an amazing feet in Sebastian's eyes. With so much going on in the Kurdistan region he'd have thought it would not have gone as smoothly as it had. Though certainly not an easy task to undertake it was still surprising it had succeeded the way it did. An now there they were, in the capital of Al-Whaladya posing as two tourists from Salik. Wearing more traditional arabic garbs the men made sure their faces remained mostly obscured and they were not bad at mingling within a crowd unnoticed. The two men spent most of the day seeing the sights of the city, the official and the unofficial alike. Eventually they found themselves at a small corner cafe ensuring a beverage which they were told was a local favorite. "The city's an interesting place, it is not?" Sebastian questioned. "A bit dry for my tastes" Nicholas said plainly. "Still, it has a certain vibe about it that is truly distinct so I suppose I can give it that." "What about our plans?" "Well" Nicholas said while taking a sip of his drink, "I picked up a brochure from one of the local shops, and if its correct one of the more industrial cities is a place called Aleppo. I would go see it myself but we've stayed here long enough as it is and I won't tempt fate. I've seen enough and known enough that I believe I have the plan we came here to design. We'll be leaving tonight, best to travel at night you know." "Going back to the Colonel and the boys then?" Sebastian asked, watching the volume of his voice as he spoke." "Indeed" Nicholas said plainly. "We have much to discuss and I fear the climate here may be changing quicker than I had anticipated before we set out on this little adventure. Regardless, we will strike as we always intended but hopefully our friends can also join the party."



Whal	Oct 30 2013, 12:22 PM Post #43
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	The Ganji Mountains... The events within As Subaq'na were not restricted to that village's limits, and similar acts of retribution were perpetrated by the Taliban across the whole of Kurdistan. Many death squad leaders were publically executed in brutal and humiliating ways to ensure that their actions would not be tolerated nor would they be permitted to continue as long as the Taliban were around. Much to the delight of Koenig and Perov, many of the death squads disbanded in fear of the Taliban or simply refused to continue their killings. However, as Koenig expected, the Hashashin and their allies still definitely and openly committed genocide undeterred by the Whaladyan forces. Worse still, recent clashes with the Hashashin uncovered that the enemy possessed multiple chemical weapons no doubt purchased from the Whaladyan National Army. In fact, about 50 or so Taliban insurgents had been killed by mortar fired nerve gas which paralyzed the nervous system and inevitably led to death. Many Taliban were disheartened when retuning to collect their dead comrades, as they were met with the ghastly sight of twisted bodies with bulging eyes. The gas rarely left any survivors. Koenig surmised that a heightened effort against the remaining Hashashin was imperative and he met with Perov inside their private section of the cave. "Our situation is very fragile at the moment", Koenig expressed to Perov. "If we are to overtake the Hashashin we need to remove their supplies of nerve gas". Perov stroked his chin methodically before responding, "Have we identified the source of the shipments?" "Yes, they arrive by unmarked vehicles travelling from Aleppo", Koenig responded. "The militias obtain them in broad daylight right in front of their compounds within As Sulaymaniyah. Its no question these are Whaladyan armaments." "Perhaps we should raid these convoys en route from Aleppo?", The Colonel questioned, "We can confiscate some whilst delivering a message to the Whaladyans that shipments should be cut off temporarily. This will give us the time needed to overtake the Hashashin." "That might just work, Colonel", Koenig replied smiling. "However, they are properly guarded by hired military contractors with armored vehicles and we are severely lacking in RPGs and vehicle mines. Any chance you can call in a favor?" "Done", Perov said smiling, removing his satellite phone from his pocket. Just as his dialed the numbers and insurgent ran into their chamber panting out of breath. He looked astonished. "What is it, man?", Perov asked worried. The insurgent looked up and smiled, "Fatah al-Din survived! He just made it back! Allah be praised!" Koenig and Perov looked at one another in disappointment. Without Zahawi, the Europeans couldn't hope to combat Al-Din. The future looked bleak, and they would need a miracle.



NRE	Nov 3 2013, 12:25 AM Post #44
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	On the road in Kurdistan... With the ethnic cleansing and Taliban war still raging, the sight of old beat-up trucks, busses, and other large vehicles all full to capacity (some overflowing) was not unusual and for some were now even the norm. Most were filled with refugees, all trying to get as far from the hot spots of the fighting as was humanly possible, especially now as rumors of extreme sickness were now running rampant. The noises of crying children, the humming of old women, and the occasional grinding of a gear filled the small bus that Sebastian and Nicholas had hopped a ride on. Though they had been less conspicuous now than they had been when they were in Al-Whaladya proper, it wasn't much of a problem. The men paid cash for the ride, Nicholas even adding a small tip for the driver's troubles and for that he'd bought the man's silence. The smell was perhaps the worst part of the ride, a pungent mixture of natural body odor and human decay with just a hint of motor oil. Sebastian thought the whole thing was terrible and had wished they waited for another ride to come along. Still, at least they were out of the sun for the time being and got the chance to try and cool himself though anything that resembled a cool breeze was few and far between. "My word do these people ever bath" he said in a lone, almost inaudible tone. Nicholas smirked at the comment and Sebastian noticed, also realizing that he'd not said much for several miles since they'd paid for their ride. "You have been quite quiet since we took this ride." "Yes, I imagine I have" Nicholas replied, "I've just been thinking." "About the war effort?" Sebastian asked. "Well sort of my friend, sort of. You know it bugs me, the attack on the Fort. Something just does not seem right and I've run it over and over in my head. Yet despite changing the variables in my head I continue to come to the same conclusion." "An what conclusion is that?" Sebastian asked while dabbing sweat off his forehead. "I think the Taliban had a mole" Nicholas said plainly. "It is the only thing that makes sense. Up until our arrival here the Fort was a safe zone for the Taliban. Then, on the evening of their greatest victory, they get attacked. Not only that, but the way the soldiers infiltrated the area...it was as if they had intimate knowledge of the place before their arrival. Someone had to have given them the information, drawn them a lay out and perhaps even contacted them the night before. After all, we were to have been moved out by the morning." "Who do you think it was" Sebastian's curiosity was now quite peeked. "Think it was the German?" Nicholas laughed, a few people looked back at him but otherwise paid him little attention. "Mr. Koenig may be in truth, a great many thing that are unsightly, but traitor to a cause I doubt it one of them. No, I don't know for certain but I am almost sure it was one of the men themselves within Zahawi's circle." "A shame we did not catch them" Sebastian said, "perhaps we could have prevented Zahawi's death." "More to the point my friend" Nicholas said gravely, "if there is a traitor and they survived, the good Colonel and the cause could still be in trouble. ________________________________________________________ Colonel Perov and Koenig slowly rose from their seats and left their private room to one of the larger common rooms in the caves. There they found a small crowd of men, the man in the middle being Fatah al-Din. He smiled from ear to ear as he shook hands and patted some of the men on their backs. Everyone seemed so extremely excited to see al-Din back within their circle but neither Perov nor Koenig were entirely impressed. After all, it had been several days since the attack and both the foreign men had done quite well for the men in the absence of their kinsmen's leadership. However, both men could see in the faces of the Taliban how quickly their success for the men was fading and how quickly Fatah al-Din's status among the men was growing back and beyond his status before the attack. "Fatah al-Din" Colonel Perov said, "I must say we are glad to have you back with us. We feared that everyone in the higher circle was either captured or killed. That you survived I am sure warms the heart of the men." "It is good to be back among my people" Fatah al-Din replied. "I am curious" the Colonel continued, "tells us of your time since we last saw you. Surely your escape is a story the men would greatly enjoy and I am sure they are eager to hear what you have been up to these last few days."



Whal	Nov 4 2013, 08:03 PM Post #45
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Al-Din's eyes shifted from the Colonel, to Koenig, and then back to the men. Whether or not the Europeans were attempting to catch him in a lie, Al-Din did not know, and neither did he care. The GFID had spent several years training him to hide in the company of those who trusted him and it was there where Al-Din truly shined. Having been a native of Kurdistan, and growing up around Fort Hatim most of his life, Fatah al-Din had grown accustomed to the "safe havens" offered to Taliban fugitives in the surrounding area. It was from moving between these places that the GFID agent had managed to avoid seizure from the death squads or Whaladyan forces ignorant of his true identity. Indeed, travelling as a "high-valued target" of the Taliban had its downsides, but it could also have its perks in the right situations - situations Al-Din found himself in quite frequently. In truth, he had spent the majority of his absence from the Taliban in relative comfort. Plentiful meals, plush accommodations, even the stolen glances of farmer's daughters awaited Al-Din at every place he rested. Eventually, however, the agent would have to return to the Taliban and resume his infiltration. He had plenty of time to construct a believable and legitimate story. "Please, brothers gather around", he beckoned invitingly, as the entire mountain's garrison ran to hear the tale. "Much like yourselves, I was surprised to hear the gunfire erupting from within our compound that terrible night. Consequently, I myself, like many of you rushed to take up arms and investigate the disturbance. Once I had established we were under attack by the GFID, I immediately made for our leader's headquarters to shield him with my life if necessary." Perov and Koenig watched as the men, many of them young and ambitious, listened intently to Al-Din's story. As his inflections raised and dropped, they could feel the men's captivation for their new leader rising. Very soon, they would lose the Taliban. "With much anger, I charged down the halls to Zahawi's chambers", Al-Din continued, his tone becoming more serious. "However, I was too late to save him from the commando's overcoming of his body guards. I watched in horror as they entered his room, firing wildly, and being unarmed myself, was unable to help him. It was with much regret and a heavy heart that I rushed back to my room to gather our intelligence and save it from the GFID's prying eyes. Alas, I was cut off by GFID commandos en route and it appeared I would be captured." The men were now exhibiting considerable sympathy for Al-Din, and many were remembering their own brushes with death. The Europeans, however, were not impressed. Koenig remembered his own attempts to save Zahawi, and was quick to recollect that he had never seen Al-Din. Something did not appear right. Al-Din continued, reaching the climax, "Yet, Allah be praised, an explosion rocked the hallways and the building collapsed around me. Through the destruction, I managed to slip away from my captors and descend down a hillside to a ditch. There, alone and unarmed, I began my small journey from safe house to safe house. I watched helplessly as the Hashashin arrived to butcher families and as the Whaladyans confiscated food from my hosts. It wasn't easy, but eventually I made my way back here to you all. 'My time away has strengthened my resolve, my brothers, and I hope you are ready to take the fight back to our enemies. Friends, brothers, it is time we take the fight to the Hashashin and the non-Kurds who so eagerly supply them and kill our families!" The fighters began cheering and raising their weapons. Perov and Koenig watched in horror, as all their hard work at reshaping the Taliban went up in flames. Now, it appeared as though they were forgotten; replaced by a man who was so vastly different from themselves. It was at this time that Perov began to actually fear for is own life. What happened when Fatah al-Din decided he was a threat to the Taliban's success? He looked at Koenig for a reaction, but the German simply looked at Al-Din with something closely resembling hatred. It was the first time Perov ever saw that emotion, any negative emotion really, on the German's face. The men cheered Al-Din's name as he walked up to the Europeans. "Well, my friends", he said in English and with a grin, "It appears your tiny day in the sun has faded. I suggest you stay clear out of the way and make no suggestions for the time being. It would be a shame to get caught up in the anger of the men." They looked upon Al-Din with no expression. Like stone, Koenig looked into the man's eyes and transmitted a message. I know it was you You'll never prove it After a few tense moments, Koenig walked away. Perov motioned to follow. "Get some sleep gentlemen", Al-Din whispered as they walked away. "Tomorrow's a big day". OOC: Feel free to have Nicholas and Sebastian come back now, NRE. You will probably want them back for what's coming :P



NRE	Nov 6 2013, 06:13 PM Post #46
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Koenig and Perov walked mostly silent towards their respective bunks. The Colonel could tell there was something bugging his German friend and while he wanted to ask, he knew when a man wanted to be left to his thoughts. Obviously, something bother him about Al-Din and not the obvious fact that he and the Colonel were going to be pushed out of the whole operation. While the Colonel had the suspicious feeling his life was now, more than ever, in danger he'd met danger before and prevailed. After all, when he last fought with rebels in Scandinavia he'd almost been caught by the Russians and the Communist Yshurak but had managed to escape. Although in that case he'd had to sacrifice one of the rebels to secure his own safety but such was the case in war. "Well talk in the morning my friend" was all the Colonel said to Koenig and he only acknowledged with a head nod to the Colonel. Perov, knowing there was little else he could do for the time being felt it only right to get some rest. He imagined, however, that he would be sleeping little and instead would be keeping one eye open for the night. A few hours past after the Colonel laid his head down that a man came into the room, walking the Colonel. "Colonel" the man said, "its Nicholas, he has returned with his friend and they are eager to see you." "Nicholas you say" said the Colonel, whispering so as not to startle anyone else in ear shot." "Yes" the man said. "Has anyone else been altered?" "No, I was going to get ..." "Don't" the Colonel interrupted, "I'll tell him myself but please, first take my to Nicholas." "Of course sir" said the man as he showed the Colonel to the small room where Nicholas and Sebastian had been shown to. They had been picked up by a Taliban patrol near the base of the mountain, it was a wonder they hadn't been shot on the spot. Thankfully however, they had not been so mistaken as spies that the men had shot first and asked questions later and were instead identified and shown to the caves. The Colonel embraced Nicholas was a hearty hug before sitting down with the two men, excusing the Taliban guards and telling them they could go back on patrol. "Colonel it is naturally good to see you" said Nicholas. "We've seen your work, you've done well by these men" "Yes" the Colonel said, "though events have drastically changed in less than twenty-four hours that could undermine it all." Nicholas frowned. "This is not good Colonel, I came back hoping that the situation was more fruitful to our cause. Do you not command these men?" "Myself and Koenig had gained their respect for a time, our success against the death squads was winning hearts and minds. However, Fatah al-Din has returned and in less than an hour, he had demolished what took myself and the German days to build between us and the men." "Are we still welcome among these men?" Nicholas asked, leaning in and with a grave look to his face. "For now" the Colonel said, looking around momentarily before continuing. "However, I fear that could change at any point in time unless things change." "Could we get to him?" Nicholas whispered, almost mouthing the towards rather than speaking to him. "Perhaps" the Colonel whispered back, "but it would be dangerous given his control of the men at this point." Nicholas said nothing at first, leaning back in his chair. The Colonel did the same, nodding at Sebastian as it was good to see him as well. "I came back because I believe I know how we can strike at the heart of Al-Whaladya" Nicholas said finally. "Yet I will need the Taliban's help to pull it off." Nicholas leaned in again, whispering. "I also came back because something bothers me about that night in the Fort. Something is not right among these men Colonel." Just then they heard someone coming to the room.



Whal	Nov 12 2013, 01:48 PM Post #47
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Fatah al-Din was absolutely the last person either Nicholas or Perov wanted to see at that very moment. Almost as if it were a movie, Al-Din had crept into the room at the very moment the Europeans had discussed disposing him, and his devilish smile pierced through their very core. How much had he actually heard? Looking at one another, and then back at Al-Din, the two men simply waited for the Kurd to speak. Instead, Al-Din snapped his fingers and the room was instantly flooded with armed insurgents who hours earlier had been graciously accepting orders from Perov himself. Now, the Colonel could see angry expressions on their faces and the Ak-47's pointed at his chest and head finally solidified their situation. Off to the side of the crowd, two armed men forcefully brought Koenig into the room and violently threw him in front of the tiny space occupied by the other advisers. "Whats going on, Fatah?", Perov asked confused, although he knew they were likely in deep trouble. Koenig coughed, and answered Perov's question instead, "We are to be executed". The German stood calmly, dusting himself off. "Executed?", Perov asked angrily. "What for?" It was now that Fatah al-Din spoke, "For treason, of course. Did you really think you could manipulate these men into doing your bidding? Europeans have always used my people for their own selfish reasons. I shall make sure you do no such thing here." Koenig scoffed calmly in his usual cool and calculated manner, "You wish to remove us so that your own treason is whitewashed." A swift kick from Al-Din's boot into the German's stomach sent him flat on the ground. Some of the men put guns to his head, as Al-Din pressed his boot firmly on Koenig's back. "Stay quiet, traitor", Al-Din ordered sadistically, "Or I'll have the men flay the flesh from your bones." It was at this point that Perov, Nicholas, and Sebastian rose from their seats to intervene on Koenig's behalf. However, a quick draw of Al-Din's pistol and the reactions of the insurgents stayed any rescue attempts. Nicholas stared angrily at Al-Din and stroked his chin. Now everything he had surmised about that night was true - Al-Din was a spy, and had orchestrated the attack against the fort. He knew it, the Europeans knew it, and for that they would be executed. Nicholas went over every option to convince the men, but none seemed likely to work. He quickly switched to thoughts of escape. "You can't honestly believe this man, boys?", Perov pleaded with the men in a last ditch effort to regain their trust. "From the very start we've been here to help you in your fight. If anything, Al-Din is the one with questionable motives. Ask yourselves, why was he absent for so long? Do any of you remember him at the fort that night? Think, dammit!" Some of the men looked at one another, but ultimately kept their guns fixed on Perov. He sat down in his chair and looked brokenly at Nicholas for something, anything. Nicholas continued to ponder, but nodded towards Perov. It appeared that the word of a Kurd would always be greater than that of a Westerner, as the skepticism and fear of Western intention continued to dominate the region. Fatah al-Din broke the silence once more, "Gentlemen, please don't try to sully the ears of the men with lies. We overheard your treachery in attempting to dispose of myself and hijack the operation for your own goals. It is of no doubt, you were also a party in the death of our great leader, Jakar Zahawi." "Liar!", Koenig screamed in German from his prostrated position. "Don't listen to him men, he killed Zahaw-". Al-Din drop-kicked Koenig harder and the German spat out blood. "I've had enough, gentlemen", Al-Din continued, looking up at the men. "Apprehend the traitors to Kurdistan, men!" The men began chanting in Kurdish and Arabic as they violently seized the westerners and bound their hands. Perov sat helplessly, not even putting up a fight, whilst Nicholas and Sebastian put up a minor struggle, but were overcome. Koenig was also propped up and brought along. Before long, they were forced into large human sized burlap sacks and tied up to their necks. There hands and feet were also tied to prevent any form of escape. The men laid them against a large truck where Al-Din stepped close to talk one last time. "You'll be buried up to your necks in sand and left in the desert", he said manically. "No one will find you, and without water you'll slowly die of dehydration. That will be the end of you, gentlemen. I'll take good care of the Taliban." Al-Din finished with a wide grin, and looking directly at Nicholas, spoke in a whisper, "Any last words, Mr. Nicholas?" OOC: Sorry for the delay. Don't worry, NRE, something will intervene in their favor by morning. Just thought i'd give you a chance to get some words in last minute :D. Edited by Whal, Nov 12 2013, 01:50 PM.



NRE	Nov 21 2013, 12:02 PM Post #48
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Nicholas stared at the man before him, so smug and so in control of his situation. He'd played the game well and for that, Nicholas could only smirk. However, Nicholas had survived worse and even if he did survive this, he found comfort in the knowledge that those we worked for would come here to avenge him. It was that thought alone that seemed to ring throughout his mind the few moments that was left in silence as al-Din waited for Nicholas to say something. Finally he spoke, his best Arabic at that, looking defiantly at al-Din as the worse rolled out of his mouth. "And if they intend to be treacherous to thee, so indeed they have been treacherous to Allah before, but He gave you mastery over them. And Allah is Knowing, Wise." An obscure reference, Nicholas knew that al-Din knew what he meant. Perhaps also, it would help inspire the men to at least question this man who know called himself leader. Whether or not they've ever betray him Nicholas was unsure. After all, unless the situation changed soon he, nor his associated, would be living to find out. OOC: I meant to write it in Arabic but I couldn't find a translation I could post.



Whal	Dec 1 2013, 11:40 AM Post #49
"Life is too short to be wasted on bad scotch" Posts: 848 Group: Members Member #751 Joined: January 24, 2013	Al-Din smiled devilishly as Nicholas repeated the passage. He had been impressed at the man's calmness in the face of annihilation, but al-Din was confident not even divine intervention would save the man before him. It was a noble effort, however, and al-Din had to give Nicholas credit. If only the men he led were slightly less suspicious of foreigners and more critical of those they deemed "friends". With a hearty chuckle and laying a hand on Nicholas' cheek, al-Din whispered a verse of his own, "Now enjoy what ye have won, as lawful and good, and keep your duty to Allah. Allah is Forgiving, Merciful." Nicholas only smiled, for no doubt al-Din and the Whaladyans believed their actions were also justifiable to God. However, not particularly a religious man himself, Nicholas believed in karma and sooner or later al-Din's treachery would catch up with him. If only he knew how quickly such a situation would be upon them. Suddenly, out of the blue, a familiar yet long gone voice preached another verse, "And let not those who disbelieve suppose that they can outstrip Allah's purpose. Lo! they cannot escape." Fatah al-Din turned slowly to chastise the man who spoke, but was greeted with the haunting image of their former leader. No one had seen Zahawi escape the fort the day of the attack, and many had labeled him dead, martyred in fact. His sudden and abrupt appearance before his former friends was surely a sign from God, and many of the men stood in disbelief before falling to their knees in observance of God's mercy. For al-Din, however, the return of his old friend was the final reckoning he had long feared and his situation was undeniably compromised. "Jakar! Your alive!", al-Din cried, faking a tone of disbelief. "Allah be praised!" Zahawi's face did not move from its stern, disapproving glare. With a moments reassuring glace towards the restrained westerners, the situation suddenly appeared to be in Nicholas' favor. Zahawi was not alone and behind him a frail old farmer and a beautiful young lady had accompanied Zahawi on his journey back. Al-Din's smile turned to a blank stare as their familiar faces began to seep in. With a whisper from the old farmer and a sorrowful referential point at al-Din from his daughter, Zahawi's conscious was clear. "Fatah al-Din", Zahawi said with equal measure of sorrow and anger, "How busy you have been since Fort Hatim. Not only have you deceived me, but you have maliciously tainted the men's ears with your lies in pursuit of the enemy's agenda. The GFID has trained you well, Fatah. From your treachery we have lost many great men and close friends. Alas, defiance in the eyes of your close friends would have been enough to condemn you to death, but your affronts in the eyes of Allah and his virtues have resolved you to your fate." Zahawi looked reassuringly at the young lady beside him. Al-Din attempted to speak in his own defense, but Zahawi silenced him with a quick pistol shot through his open mouth. Al-Din's lifeless body fell to the ground, soaking the cave floor with thick crimson. The men were confused, but remained completely silent in respect to the man before them. For moments the cavern was quiet as Zahawi reflected upon his act. Killing a close friend was no easy task, and he fought back the feelings of dread. With Zahawi's quick point towards the captives, the men began to untie the westerners much to their delight. Upon their release, Nicholas approached Zahawi to thank him, but also to inquire about the nature of how he discovered al-Din's treachery. Zahawi smiled before Nicholas spoke, but then fell to his knees presumably do to stress and fatigue. The men rushed to his aide and brushed Nicholas aside, but he yelled out to Zahawi as he was carried away. "What did al-Din do to the girl?" Exasperated, but still conscious, Zahawi answered faintly, "Rape". Nicholas was confused as how that event led Zahawi to conclude the rest of the matter, but he wouldn't get his answers now. Now, Zahawi had to rest, as did Koenig who was still gravely injured. Nicholas sat down at a table to gather his thoughts.



NRE	Dec 3 2013, 05:10 PM Post #50
Map Tsar and Southern Gentleman Posts: 9,266 Group: Admin Member #120 Joined: April 21, 2005	Nicholas helped Sebastian to his feet, also seeing to the Colonel as well after seeing Zahawi carried away. Looking in the opposite direction he also saw the men taking Koenig away, presumably to tend to his injuries and allow him to rest as well. Then his gaze turned to the now lifeless body on the floor, surrounded in the pool of crimson. Nicholas moved towards it, his head cocked to the side as if he were investigating it. He looked the body up and down, silent and in his own thoughts. The men who were assigned to dispose of it were a bit baffled by Nicholas and his actions, wondering if it were alright to take the body. Finally, almost in a whisper, Nicholas spoke to the dead Fatah al-Din as if he were still living. "Fear God, and keep his commandments; for that is the whole duty of everyone" he said, breaking a bit of a smile while speaking. His head then turned upwards to the men and he stepped back, a sign they were free to take him away though in truth, they did not need his permission. Nicholas then returned to his two immediate companions. "Imagine they'll bury the body"Sebastian asked. "They should burn it" the Colonel said coldly. "You know" Nicholas said candidly, "in the East that's considered an honorary burial. The Chinese have this interesting notion that only the soul is important. The body is merely a useless vessel after death and that cremation is necessary if the soul is the escape the body and move on to heaven. Burying a body in the Eastern Empire is the great dishonor an individual can have after death, thus graveyards are few and far between. I say let the sand take him...or the wild beasts of these mountains..." The three men contemplated the idea momentarily before moving on from the room entirely. Sebastian was particular hungry after the event so the three found a table and asked for some food. The men catered to the westerners request though Nicholas and the others would have gladly retrieved their own food from the mess. The Talibani were still weary of the westerners however, and though Zahawi had spared their lives he'd yet told the men on whether or not they could in fact be trusted. Fearful that Nicholas or Sebastian might try to poison the rations, they brought the food to them. Nicholas shrugged it off, he could blame the men for their caution and in fact, commended it. "So what now Nicholas" said the Colonel between bites. "Well now we wait, see where things lay once Zahawi has regained his strength. I imagine we remain in good standings but he may still wish to resume his previous course before the attempt on his life. If so the Taliban will go underground and an attack in Al-Whaladya proper will be difficult. However, I imagine Zahawi is a prideful man...pride is a sickness that afflicts every man from time to time. He may see al-Din's betrayal as a personal affront to him and his honor and seek revenge against the Whaladyans for this treachery." "I imagine we then suggest an attack." "Of course, not only because it benefits us but also because it will be the perfect target of opportunity for our good host and friends. Zahawi deserves to show the Whaladyan government that he is not a man who can be easily dealt with. What better symbol could we pick that a nuclear facility. If the men can get in, even if they don't succeed in taking any material, it will show the Whaladyans that nothing and nowhere, is safe. Besides this, it could very well bring international pressure as surely none of their neighbors want to see nuclear materials just taken and put out there for whatever use the Taliban could have. Yes, I imagine it will be just the sort of fire one would want to start under the enemy's seat. Afterwards, the Taliban can go underground as it was originally planned, taking with them a new fear that they've instilled in the hearts of their enemies."


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