Post by bluesnailok on May 14, 2023 19:35:05 GMT
Starting overview
The aftermath of Roma’s brutal and cruel killing was just as swift as the news of it spread. What started originally as an archipelago of agitant gatherings and demonstrations through the city quickly collapsed into a torrent of anarchy. The outrage at the death of a woman who did little more than speak out against colonial rule rapidly accelerated, as did Roma’s image. From a simple figurehead of a movement bigger than herself, the upstart journalist became a martyr, a perceivable symbol both of the Sasonish resilience and colonial brutality. Few questioned who was behind the killing, it seemed very clear. But soon the men behind the murder became less relevant than what they represented.
To the movement, the killing of Roma Efiki and the Sasonish struggle against their Kalethian colonial rulers became a microcosm for an even greater hierarchy of planetary strife. “The Kalethian rulers...”, came the saying, “...are just as much a puppet to the galactic colonials as the Sasonish government is to the Kalethians”. 14 hours after her death, tens of thousands more Sasonish people had taken to the streets of Kaban, their capital. Prior to her death, Kaban’s police could control the situation. But with the crowds now enraged and increasingly dangerous, entire blocks were being surrendered to the anarchy as law enforcement began their efforts to contain the situation. Overstretched and underprepared, the local authorities quickly began withdrawing from the most dangerous residential areas. The tight streets of which threatened officers by being surrounded and overwhelmed by the clamouring crowds.
With the surrendering of certain areas of the city to their violent inhabitants, the police had hoped that it would free up the manpower to continue holding the main roads, the lifeblood of the city. They were wrong. Within hours of the initial police retreat, hordes of rioters from the taken districts began marching into the open roads of the city. Some rebels used their own vehicles to form blockades to halt the flow of traffic as reports of widespread chaos on the streets only invigorated the discontented masses further. The hastily formed lines of underequipped police, were quickly forced to pull out as a hail of bottles, bricks and even a speeding car came barreling upon them. The crowds held the initiative, and the spontaneous group mentality among the masses was going unopposed, even appeased as the Sasonish government desperately tried to fall back and form strongpoints.
By 8PM; threatened by waning authority over the outer sections of 1st and 2nd Avenues in the East and South-East, Kaban Municipal Police began recalling teams away from the Eastern districts, forcing them to retreat from one district in that area altogether as other Eastern blocks became a chaotic match between stray squad cars and swelling crowds of rioters. Sensing the lack of authority, the Eastern districts exploded into looting, shopping streets collapsed into a cacophony of jeers as front windows of businesses were smashed. Looting was becoming increasingly commonplace, even in areas still officially controlled by the police. Some recordings were even beginning to circulate of xenos and Teliran collaborators being dragged through the streets and beaten, some reportedly being killed.
Still the police were not given the orders to use extreme force as dusk came and even more Telirans flocked to the streets, some now from outside of the city. Not even the city center was secure any more as rumours of Telkasi Palace being firebombed spread through word of mouth. The abandoned districts now became blackzones; few knew what was going on there any more and plumes of smoke were starting to rise. The few places untouched so far by the chaos of the outskirts were instead shrouded by an anxious emptiness. Few pedestrians were around; fewer cars. From the South Bank things still seemed unmoved, there was scarcely an angry shout. Things were more tense the further North things went though.
The Union and Carnaithan ambassadorial area, nicknamed Envoy Avenue, was practically a ghost-town as of now; with its average footfall being the occasional businessman rushing down the road or a lone babushka slowly shuffling home with her shopping bags. It was a far cry from the usual hubbub of sightseers, city-goers and cars.
News from the outer districts was more troubling. The lesser consulates, notably the Jade consulate and Union university, found themselves considerably closer to the heated areas. The trouble was mere blocks away from them now as occasional groups of young men came strutting down the street, jeering at any foreigners they saw. Every so often a police car would come barreling by at top speeds, their sirens wailing through the street. But this eerie, seemingly unstoppable rumble of rioting from not far away was a distinct improvement for the situation now of the Capitolites.
The Capitolite Exile community in Kaban was not big, but they were distinct and tightly knit. The role of their brethren in aiding the Kalethian imperialists in the reason war for independence had not made their nationality any friends in Sasona either. They consequently became one of the first targets of the earlier chaos. With entirely lost blocks not far from their neighbourhood, the streets around “Capitown” were filled with roving bands of angered locals; every street around the Capitolites was now in danger of being lost as bottles were chucked over the expatriate’s makeshift road blockades. Even the occasional gunshot seemed to ring out, but most were still unarmed. The police in the area were melting away as their presence was being steadily forced back by the incensed hordes, as young Telirans kicked and through any line the police could muster. It thus seemed like it would not be long now before the Capitolites would be entirely isolated; cut off from any desperate hope of breaking out with their families.
The entire city was coming to a halt and the causes were still far out of sight from the South Bank and diplomatic district. But one thing was for certain, the news from the television showed no signs of the situation deescalating, it looks like the entire country was about to spiral into chaos, and finding themselves located right in the middle of it were the now-stranded diplomatic quarters of a handful of foreign xeno consulates, embassies and emigre neighbourhoods. Still, one hope of an early resolution remained in the local authorities.
It was becoming very clear that the Sasonish puppet government was now tiptoeing the line between appeasing the pro-independence calls of their population and cracking down as per the wishes of their Kalethian overseers. Head of Government for the Tesfeld Union state, the Kalethian puppet state over Sasona, President Monatt himself had already arranged a visual conference over the net with the local ambassadorial missions in regards to the recent troubles in Kaban. Set to begin at 5AM, not far from the present time, he had assured that it would answer any questions or fears in regard to the situation. Every major representative was to be present.
Union Embassy
“The situation certainly isn’t improving.”
“No sir, it seems to be getting worse. There are already reports of potential dissenter scouts eyeing up our zone. Sergeant Calcico has reported that a few were taking pictures of him and his men as they attempted to convene with the Carnaithian security teams. It seems they might be coming for us next” The staff member had worry in her voice, completely understandable given the circumstances. It was a very real threat that they were now under, and while the Ambassador had no doubt that their security teams would do their best trying to stop an entire city in a riot was an impossible task.
“I see. Tell Calcico to remain at the ready” He paused “Oh and tell the staff to start thinking about what materials we have to erect barricades, and check the armoury I know we don’t have much but anything that can help deter violence is needed” Ambassador Khamir added, the young staff member in front of him feeling the weight of the words and pausing for a second in shock.
“Don’t worry I am sure this will be dealt with or die down before they get here. Its purely for precaution make sure to relay what I said though just in case” He gave a reassuring smile and the women nodded before exiting the room. Khamir let out a long breath as he closed his eyes, from the desk by the window he could see out across the section of the city. The dull orange glow out before him signalled the women’s worries to be entirely founded, with the almost soft response of the authorities their prospect here was grim. He had already talked to the Carnaithian ambassador when this was a confined affair but now the rioters were getting close to the University, he flicked his finger and brought up the holo display on his desk. Immediately he called the head there.
“Khamir, I am glad you called. Things are getting dicey here, I think the rioters are coming for the Jade embassy and we are just the icing on the cake. Most of the students have managed to get out and go home but some of the travel links have been shut down and we have students here who can’t get out. The faculty have been discussing the possibility of you sending over a detachment to get us there” The head, Arthurs Bindsley was actually not a Unioner, but a Teliran who had studied in the Union and since returned to try and bring the excellent education he had received here for his own people. But now it seemed he would be targeted by the very people who he wished to help.
“I was checking up on your situation, how many of you are there? And what word from the Jade? Are they moving out soon and are they willing to provide you and the others security?” Khamir replied, he knew sending Calico to try retrieve the faculty and students would be a tough thing to do but not doing so could cost him a great deal more.
“46 of us are still here and we have the university transport, we can just about squeeze everyone in but we need escort. No word yet from the Jade consulate, I think their busy with their own problems now, but I can try again” The man was very afraid, but Khamir respected him for how he was handling himself.
“Do so, ill tell the Sergeant to get some boys together and come get you soon. Hold tight”
Capitolite Zone
The sound of glass smashing only made Kommadant Zeister angrier.
“Use tear gas! Those local bastards want us gone they can pay for it. What’s the sit rep of Onos Street?” The immaculate uniform of Zeister gave him away as a clear supporter of the old regime. Having grown up under Ferinaza Garren Zeister had been nobility until that spoilt bitch Inara had cleaned shop. At least he had found support and shelter here, helping the locals find an ideology which gave them purpose.
Now look how they repaid him and his men.
“We had to fall back sir; the crowd is too thick. We lost two men out there as well, dragged down and beaten to death. No doubt it was filmed too” His adjutant calmly pointed out as shouting and the occasional gunfire continued. The Capitol soldiers who had been stationed here had donned their uniform and riot gear along with proper weaponry and had formed a line between them and the rioters several streets away. However, the crowd had not been deterred and had charged, taking down two men before the one of the Freikorps had opened fire gunning down several Teliran civilians but causing the crowd to back off. Now they were only one street away from the building, a no man’s land standoff occurring with the thin line of olive green facing down the horde. Molotovs, rocks and other things were hurled at the Capitol soldiers who merely stood their ground.
“GO BACK TO YOUR HOMES. DO NOT ADVANCE ANY FURTHER. ACTION AGAINST US WILL RESULT IN DEADLY FORCE I REPEAT…”
The voice came through the loudspeaker constantly, drowning out the cries and shouts from outside. Zeister grimaced.
“Two loyal men gone down to a rabid pack of Inhumans. What’s the status on reinforcement?”
“We have received acknowledgement and we have help on the way, but it will take a long time for them to reach us let alone fight through to get to us sir. I suggest we tighten security and bring up the few vehicles we have, form a barricade, and get a sniper on the roof. Any antagonistic leader figure who comes forward calling for them to charge we shoot immediately”
“I like your style. Consider it done and see to it at once. Whats the word from the authorities?”
“Nothing so far, the usual stay put help is on the way, but from what we have seen from the roof and on the news it appears the police and law enforcement are pulling out of this zone” Zeister snorted in disgust.
“Typical. Aliens cant even police their own damn people. Carry out your plan Trefeld, lets get this done”
_Envoy Avenue_
The Carnaithian block on Envoy Avenue was busier than usual, contrasting the gravity of the situation - The main atrium of the four-story commercial building was under thorough surveillance from a dozen troopers and remote cameras alike as business owners and Carnaithian expats from the adjacent Shopping Stretch milled about and filled the building with buzzing discussion; concerns over security, complaints of damages already incurred, requests for information regarding flights to and from Natar... the reasons for visits among the crowd varied as much as their phenotypes. For as busy as it was, and the surrounding situation, there was no question as to why the director of the building and the ambassadorial staff alike were nowhere to be found at the front of the compound.
"You think they'll lash out here, Liz? Really?" Ambassador Alak Vitiri posited in the break room, overlooking the thin street between the Union and Carnaithian zones.
"Well, yeah, Al. They've gone and buzzed the Capitolite zone, why wouldn't they?" Asked the far more casual, if irritated, Lizaki Mere - building director and middleman between the businessmen and Alak. "Khamir wants to know if we can help extract a group from the university, they're getting close and students aren't really the best at defending themselves. I think sending out a squad wouldn't hurt, if you ask me."
Alak's tired visage looked back, his hand holding the dissapointingly-empty brewing pot from the counter opposite him from Lizaki. "You just told me they'd lash out here, why do we want our security off-station?"
"Because there's two royal families' children attending that university and believe me if they won't lobby for house Lodric to take your head if their kids get so much as a fleck of blood on their pompous coats. This compound has a panic room, an escape route to the Union building, more security, and defensive architecture. I. Think. We. Can. Spare. It."
Vitiri sighed as he rubbed his snout with his free hand; he didn't usually have to think about the union university, and now he was going to be sending imperial guard out into a foreign states' streets, with a foreign states' people. The act would definitely piss off the corporates two floors below, but he really didn't want to come out of this with a ruined career.
"Fine, send a squad out with one of the convoy cars. I'll call Khamir, we've got each others' backs."
Ingen Consulate
The Jade Consulate was not an important building. Dwarfed by some of the larger embassies over on Envoy Avenue, it was a small, two-storey pagoda-style building with an ornate eight-foot wall enclosing perhaps a single acre. A suite of rooms for the one consular officer, Jurou Yoshida, an office room for him and his two local administrative assistants during the day, a spacious reception/interview room, a kitchen, a security station and a basement garage for their vehicles and supplies. The short lawn in front of the consulate was graced with a little rock garden and pond, and a small arbor supported a spray of blossoms on the path to the front door.
Yoshida was still trying to wake up. He had been rudely awoken by news of the unrest, and was trying to make sense of the situation even as gunfire sounded in the distance. A few minutes later, his security chief buzzed him on his Holo to inform him that the Capitolites had already opened fire on a crowd and there were reported fatalities. The Union university dean, one Arthur Bindsley, had already called him asking for assistance and initially he had planned to decline, intent on staying put, but after seeing the footage that was starting to circulate the AncNet he had reconsidered...
Sergeant Takenaka was not happy. He had only four marines, a single squad, to protect the consulate, and even then he had been told that was a luxury given he only had to protect one diplomat, one chef and a couple of local pencil-pushers. He tramped out to the front wall, where a narrow walkway let First Marine Kato peep over and keep an eye on the street beyond. There was no sign of unrest yet, and the sight of the distant Union embassy over the rooftops was reassuring, but with only five spears to protect their little corner of the city Takenaka had a gut feeling the consulate was not long for this world.
Yoshida fretted. It was not yet dawn, but a conference call with President Monatt had been scheduled to start soon.
_
After agonising for a while he decided to bail on the call, sending apologies to the President's office before calling for his Sergeant.
The bulky man in his clattering armour appeared at his door and the frazzled diplomat glanced up. "Sergeant, get the Respite ready. I will be dismissing Kenneth and Mary. I am closing this Consulate until further notice and we will be enacting the appropriate protocols. Have the building sterilised."
Takenaka nodded in relief and turned, barking orders even before he had left the room. Two of his marines headed into the garage and began firing up the Respite LAV, a sturdy wheeled vehicle designed to carry five people in its armoured cab and four more in the flatbed at the rear. A 12.7mm railgun, operated remotely from inside the cab, was its only weaponry, although it also had smoke and chaff launchers.
Meanwhile, Yoshida and his chef, an amiable old man who everyone just knew as "Shefu", were engaging in shutdown protocol. A small furnace, built into the ground behind the consulate with a heavy steel hatch, was opened and datapads, documents and anything else sensitive was dumped inside. Shefu heaved the door shut and powered on the furnace, a muted roar sounding from beneath their feet.
Yoshida was upstairs, packing what little he could not bear to leave behind into a tote bag. His clothes and mundane goods would be left - he could buy more. A decorative kanji haiku, written for him by his wife, went into the tote, as did some datapads, his official jinbaori coat, a dagger and some other sundries. He clattered downstairs, checked on Shefu's progress, and then said a farewell to his two local assistants who were keen to run home. The rugged LAV was now parked just behind the gate and he climbed into the cab. In the bed Takenaka hefted his AA-42 as they rolled out, Yoshida already calling ahead to let Khamir and Bindsley know they would be stopping by the Union university and could travel together to Envoy Avenue.
High Imperium Legation
Gaivran slumped back against his chair, groaning. "Those idiots. Do we have any response from Lady Eroth, at least?"
His secretaries glanced at each other for a moment before one of them screwed up his courage. "Her directives are to hold the embassy district and support the other embassies within reasonable means while keeping civilian casualties to a minimum." Hesitating a minute, he continued, bracing himself for the outburst that would likely follow. "Additionally, she has stated that we are not cleared to deploy the two Legion maniples unless the embassy tower is threatened itself."
"WHAT?!"Bolting upright, the Emissary was near apoplectic with fury. "How the hell does she expect me to do anything without those maniples?"
Grimacing, the aide explained. "She denied deployment on the grounds that the Legions are seen as the official military of the Imperium, and to deploy them against civilian populations in anything but the most dire of situations could have rather extreme implications. Such as being seen to declare war against the ASN."
"War? You want a war, look outside the fucking window! Star bedamned." Grinding his teeth together, the Emissary composed himself, then nodded sharply. "Fine. What do we have to deploy?"
One of the other aides brightened at this. "I can answer that, sir. We currently have 20 levy soldiers holding various chokepoints across the district, with minimal armor support. We also have 50 soldiers of the Long Nine and accompanying gunships if you wanted to send aid to the other embassies."
Gaivran grunted, drumming his fingers on the table for a moment. "Hold 30 of the Niners back, but have the other 20 gear up and get them moving to the Union university. Send a preliminary notice of course. Wouldn't want them shooting at us when we're just trying to help. And get someone to prep the holo room for the conference. Let's get going, people!"
Royal Federation Legation
The Federation district was quiet save for some protests which weren't hurting anyone... for the moment. The AI assigned there on official diplomatic duty was Annalise, she was that areas direct contact to the Diplomatic Corps. She was well aware of what was going on in the city and how the violence might eventually be drawn towards the Federation District. A frightful consequence if her data centre underground were to be destroyed and the dozens of Federation citizens were killed, as such she began taking precautions such as bringing in police patrols from locally employed Federation police and having the embassy guard on standby. There was also a transport run on call if they should find the need to evacuate. All according to her algorithm.
"Annalise, i see your preparations are complete and i commend you on your efforts. However, you should make the effort to assist the other nations should the opportunity arise. Let them know that if they need it an evacuation shuttle will arrive in the next hour to take VIPs away to safety." The Diplomatic Corps said plainly to Annalise.
"Also have some volunteers go out into the streets with water and first aid kits to offer assistance to people. This is a good opportunity to get out there and make a good image of ourselves, if events unfold in an unpleasant manner withdraw back to the embassy and wait for evacuation."
"As you command Corps." Annalise replied respectfully. The whole interaction of course took place of a mere fraction of a second as there was no need for verbal communication.
Overview
By the time of the morning conference in the wee hours of the morning, the chaotic news of the distant troubles were not indicating improvements yet. The police were reportedly still making efforts to establish hardpoints and contain the swelling numbers and strength of the masses accumulating in the areas surrendered to the lawlessness. While they had made retreats, it atleast seemed like they were more than capable of containing the situation, for now at least. Pictures of faces bloated by truncheon bruises, bystanders being attacked by rioters and far more horrific images emanating from attacks by both revolutionaries and authorities were continuing to emanate from the zones. What was starting as a fringe group of radicals filling the streets was apparently becoming something more; it seemed like the entire city was emptying into the rioting zones.
News also arrived that, distinct from the wholly anarchic riots of the residential areas, more organised groups were also organising daylight demonstrations. The commercial block, the site of most of Kaban’s private sector highrises, the ASN square and Terefa rallying grounds had already become sites for intended peaceful protests which all promised to magnetise even larger turnouts for the revolutionary cause. Many of the organisers of these demonstrations, both violent and passive, had backgrounds in the Anti-Imperialist liberation movements for the recent Sasona secession war.
Daybreak came and still President Monatt’s video conference did not come. The delay, his staff reported, apparently came due to the ‘secondary concern’ the safety of the embassies represented to ‘the greater focus of organising an end to the turbulence’. Sure enough, an hour after the allotted time and now as the blood-red sky of dawn had bled across the city skyline, Monatt’s unmistakable face came through in his transmission to both the colonial and few unaligned representatives active in the city.
“Ambassadors, consuls and otherwise, good morning to you all.” The President grinned smoothly followed by a yawn.
No diplomatic leader could do their work in Sasona without knowing and understanding Monatt. Former Lord-Minister, now renamed Lord-President, was the plenipotentiary head of government for the Tesfeld Union State. By extension he was their collaborationist leader for thei unofficial Kalethian dominion over Tesfeld. A laudable realist and a career politician if ever there was one, Monatt solidified his position by heading the loyalists against the liberation war that only ended a few decades ago and had been conveniently elected by the lords, landowners and chiefs of the developing nation ever since. Now with visible signs of age, most notably his crow’s feet, the President charmfully began with such a confident demeanour it was hard to see him as out of control of things,
“I hope this finds you all well…” He looked down to his notes, “It has come to my attention that, during this time of staggered stability and productivity, some amongst the diplomatic community have taken concern to the future of their assets in Kaban.”
Looking up he chuckled briefly before explaining, “I wanted to take this conversational opportunity to- to- to emphasise that Kaban is still largely in a state of lawfulness. The police have assured me that their new Comprehensive Action Plan for containment and mitigation of the recent spread of the unrest can begin over the course of the next couple of days. With it, we intend to fully control where and when these dissident groups walk the streets and, hopefully down the line, we- we…we can…” He paused, visibly trying to look for the right word to use as his hands drifted about, “Uh- direct things into a more amiable course.”
With this the President paused, “I do hope to keep this short as I'm sure you understand that I'm a busy man, but I do believe that I have promised to answer any questions you might have for the Tesfeld government and on our Comprehensive Action Plan. But before that the thing I must emphasise most about this plan, is that we are bringing a halt to non-government city traffic on the city roads. This is a move we are conducting in accordance with our objectives to better the efficiency, deployability and effectiveness of our law enforcement units in controlling the spread of these incidents. We need the roads empty, and this cannot be done if we have independent groups and civilians all clogging the infrastructure attempting to conduct plans of their own” He gave a cheesy signature smile of a politician, “...Now, do we have any questions?”
Envoy Avenue (Union, Carnaith)
For the old AGA powers, the situation over the past hour had done little in the way of escalation. What were now effectively the night hours for the nocturnal Telirans had given the city a psychological respite, the streets were a little fuller with pedestrians as passers-by were taking the opportunity of sleeping hours to get outdoors. It was impossible not to question how many of those average joes strolling down the pathways had just finished a day out in one of the distant mobs further out in the city.
But even during this almost comforting return of normalcy some small groups were forming, holding placards, some laying murals and makeshift shrines some to mourn the death of Roma Efiki. Some came to shame the Carnaithan and Union governments for their association and recognition of the state they stood against. Others were here hoping to appeal to these states to promise their aid to their cause of separation from the Tesfeld Union State. All were clearly supported by the heart of the public as the odd passer-by would head to a local store and bring them some food or photograph the scenes; spreading awareness.
One particularly concerning event for today, arriving by midday, was an Ancnet message to the Carnaithan and Union Ambassadorial missions by a one Mr Davo Kalmine, a Human unioner married to a Carnaithan expatriate living in the city. Mr. Kalmine simply attached a poorly-taken image of the streeview outside his house. Through the blurred motion from the camera movement and the sheen of his house’s glass, one could only just make out the dozens of unknown figures outside. Kalmine’s message explained that he occupied an apartment in the residential outskirts and, while his wife was safely protected by corporate security at the Mavasa Bank Tower, he feared that the crowds forming were intending to break into his home. Kalmine finished by asking for advice from the embassies on what he should do.
“Chrysaor Castle” (Capitol)
The disorganisation of the rioters mixed with the excessive, bloody reaction of the Capitolites was enough to send the demonstrators into the distance for now. But they didn’t disappear. The crowds brewed and brooded from a distance. Sometimes throwing objects, othertimes pounding the ground in unison and chanting slurs and sayings.
The only reprieve came in the morning from the Teliran side as an ageing Berlun, in his clerical garb emerged through the masses and began crossing the distance between the fortified neighbourhood and the rioters. The goatlike clergyman began stopping at each of the lifeless bodies of fallen citizens upon the road. Kneeling as he quietly murmured prayers and covered the heads with ceremonial cloth. All held their breath to see how the defender’s would react.
Unlike the embassies, the Capitolites had not been dignified by any direct communication from the central government. Instead, they had simply received a police communique that, “If the Capitolite community in Kaban continues to utiilise illegal force during these times of instability, the Tesfeld Union State will be forced to direct forces towards the complete pacification and prosecution of the antagonizing neighbourhoods.” The only other activity the Capitolite’s were seeing for now were the overhead rumbles of helicopters which hawked above, always recording, always watching for what the unpredictable defenders might do next.
Jade Consulate (Ingen)
The evacuation procedures at the Jade building went unhindered by the locals. A few passers by stopped to watch, others to film. But noone had gathered preemptively. In honesty few had even considered the Jade diplomatic presence amid all of this. It was arguably one of the less notorious diplomatic missions in the city, certainly behind country’s like Orillia. But it hadn’t been forgotten. Even before the Jade had begun their evacuation procedures, a single officer had turned up at their door to assure them that the authorities would happily follow up on any incidents should naredowells attempt to vandalise or harass the consulate.
As daybreak came, the Imperial mission was met by the figure of well-dressed Teliran, clad in western business wear, still relaxed as ever despite the distant sections of the city destabilizing. Beside him stood a similarly well-dressed local, his shades and earpiece indicating him to be some kind of security. With a calm smile the first gentleman walked up to the consul and calmly offered a hand,
“Mr Yoshida? Closmari Hada. Chief Senior Executive Supervisor for Lower Echelon Subdivision Oversight of the Local Policy Management department for the ASN: Kaban directorate. We just wanted to stop by and invite you to come along with us to the ASN Unity Tower, it’s a helluva lot more focal for protection than your Consulate… If you excuse me saying so. We’re on our way there now as a matter of fact. We’ve got security, people and I doubt the rioters have anything against an organisation like the Associated States. The more the merrier, after all!” The Teliran chirped as he took a look at the Consulate’s armoured vehicle.
“...You’re not going anywhere in that thing are you?”
The Legation Quarters (Royal Fed, High Imperium)
The lack of activity on the South Bank gave to something of a detaching, comforting air for the legation quarters. Neighbourhoods so deeply rooted in foreign control, so far from the chaos, made the entire place feel like it was on an entirely different continent; free and untouchable from the issues far from the heart of the city. The outskirts apparently did not have such a luxury. Even as the odd police boat or two rumbled down the Tanais river, cutting through the shimmering glow of the water at sunrise, watching from the overlooks or buildings made it feel like it was all safely on a TV screen.
Even from the foreign-controlled legations, one could look out upon the streets of the South Bank, beyond the confines of the concessions, and observe the police officers who closely monitored any brewing groups of protesters. An officer was present on almost every street; all were keen to disperse and arrest any potential threats. The sights made it almost unbelievable to think that the situation across the river could be any worse. The occasional bumble of a distant gun being fired was more soothing than terrifying from this distant.
For them, atleast for now, the biggest problem didn’t come from real problems and threats. But the growing influx of locals and expatriates flooding ambassadorial lines and departments with inquiries about whether they should stay at home, ignore the new lockdowns, complaints about their cars being impounded for breaking lockdown, questions on government policy, paranoid reports of neighbours planning to kill them, one Imperium migrant over a call even suggested that the High Imperium ought to invade the entire planet. Few of these questions were important, many more were trivial if not outright enraging by how much they were keeping staff busy from proper planning.
As the morning turned to midday, it became very apparent that the South Bank authorities, so close to the centre of the capitol, were becoming concerned of how the Legations would respond. Indicated by the increasing presence of squad cars and law enforcement monitoring concession activity along the de-facto borders of the statelets in the city. One officer was even so concerned as to mistakenly call in the first of the Royal Federation triage centers, within RF territory, as a rendezvous for a potential breakout into the government-controlled sections of the city and resulted in a waste of both police manpower and time as six policecars quickly found their way to the site.
The RF aid itself was responded to well by the massing civil protesters within the. While some took the opportunity to point fingers and make accusations of collaborationism with the Tesfeld Government. Most were happy to accept the food and hydration for their picket fences, which quickly began to foster something of a redirected protest within Federation territory, not towards the Federation people, but more generally towards notions of Colonial domination over free nations. This did not deviate them from their stances on ending things like the legation quarters, but it did create a bridge.
Union University (Union)
The state of the University was a far cry from what the embassies were dealing with. Like the Capitolite District, the University was finding itself in the midst of the ongoing changeover between local authorities and the crowds of dissenters. Where once police lines had been pushed against the seas of people, now there wasn’t a single officer in sight. What’s even worse is that there had been no steady retreat. The lines had seemed to hold down the street for some time over night. But at some unknown point, almost like an explosion, the crowds had swarmed past the University. Now the streets outside campus walls were filled with the chants of the mobs, hooded figures and flying bricks.
There was no doubt the University buildings beyond the University proper had quickly been devastated. The clear sounds of nearby shattering class, clattering tables and security alarms ringing made clear of that. So far the main building, however, was not much better. Unprotected by any defensive embassy wall or elite security force, the crowds were allowed to quickly mass right up the buildings walls which were bathed in the hellish red light of morning.
For now, the anarchy was being limited by the lack of initiative and commitment by the anarchic rabble outside. But the smashing of bricks against the windows, matched by the sheer size of the building and shortage of people inside, made it almost traumatising for anyone inside. As long as the mob built up the will to do it, they could theoretically smash through some unwatched door or window in an unoccupied room and quickly spill in, and then the University would be left to the mercy of a mob’s euphoric frenzy. The situation was bleak.
JADE CONSULATE
Yoshida shook Hada's hand, years of diplomatic instinct preventing him from bowing in the Ingenious style. He nodded, glancing over towards the silhouette of the ASN Unity Tower to the south-east.
"Your offer is most appreciated, Mr Hada," he replied in Teliran, strongly accented but slow and clear, "but I have promised we will help to evacuate the Union University and escort the residents to the Union Embassy."
He gestured to the marines gathered beside the Respite, clad in the jade, white and gold of the 3rd Regiment responsible for embassy and consulate protection across the Jade Empire. The faceplates of their helmets were worked into snarling, ornate Ingenious dragons, whilst they were arrayed with what looked like medieval weapons of glittering crystal.
"Our marines are proficient in non-lethal crowd control and are well-equipped and trained, and nothing short of anti-armour will stop the Respite LAV from getting where it needs to go. To run and seek shelter whilst others are in jeopardy would be a stain on the Jade Empire's reputation."
Sergeant Takenaka spoke up, adding in the fast, staccato Ingenious tongue; "A true man would rather be the shattered jewel, ashamed to be the intact tile."
Union Embassy
“We are out, by god Khamir they torched the place, we can see the glow from here. The Jade were really nice to us and they are giving us an escort. We got the three buses out and ready to go and fit everyone on so we are safe now, how long do you think you can get to us?” The voice of Arthur Brindsley made Khamir audibly sigh in relief, they had all seen the visuals of the university campus as the rioters had broken in via the study gardens initially and swarmed across into the court yards and started to set fire to the buildings, ransacking everything they could and spraying slogans onto the walls and more. Khamir had been focused on the graffiti sprayed onto the front building after they had managed to get out.
‘Down with the colonials’
It seemed there was more trouble stirring than before.
“I am glad you managed to get out Arthur, tell the Jade we owe them one. Calico is on route along with some extra hands from the Carnaithian embassy, they should meet up with you shortly and we can get you all safe in no time” Khamir smiled, the head thanking him before putting the phone down. Khamir wiped the sweat off his brow, thankfully Alak had pulled some strings and helped, no doubt he would owe the Carnaithian ambassador a drink after this was all over. However, the situation regarding Mr. Kalmine and his family was bleak. Picking up a rather old-fashioned phone again Khamir rung ambassador Vitiri.
“Hey, Alak, this is Khamir… Given the situation for Mr. Kalmine I think its best we give a joint front. Any ideas on what to advise him?”
Meanwile in the staff call, as Monatts stuttering and bureaucratic blundering came over the collective call the Union Ambassador was nowhere to be seen, Khamir having been more focused on ensuring the successful extraction of the Union University over any political promises. Instead the Union presence came from Diplomatic Attaché Arcolo, a large Jorgal who stood in a neatly pressed suit of intricate design. He represented Khamir and the Union contingent and he already disliked Monatts promises before the man even finished speaking.
“We have groups moving to secure the evacuees from the University campus who are currently travelling to Envoy Avenue as well as additional security detachments working to escort them. I am sincerely hoping under this action plan that they will not be stopped at checkpoints and will be allowed free passage to ensure their security and timely arrival at our location. Given the damage and extent of unrest that our University and faculty have endured over the last day we would appreciate the expediency of your security forces in securing that area” The dull growl of the Jorgals voice thankfully covered Arcolos annoyance at the situation, and he hoped the Telirans would at least help get their people to safety.
Union University Convoy
Arthur slumped back into his seat as he put the phone down to Khamir, to know Calico and the Carnaithian security teams were on the way was a blessing, and the armoured LAV that now drove in front of them, painted dark green and bearing the mark of the Jade Empire was extremely reassuring. Even as they had scrambled to get the buses going and everyone on the Jade team had been there to help calm everyone down and direct the staff and students in an orderly fashion. They now went first, ensuring that the small convoy of four vehicles made their way safely back, but they were not out of the woods yet. The entire area was crawling with protestors and rioters, and Arthur looked back at the orange glow from the burning university.
So much work lost, so much hope for the future gone. He sighed again as his eyes drifted to the other two buses in the convoy and immediately his face turned to shock. There was only one bus behind his own.
“What? Where is the third bus!” Instantly panic swept through the staff and students as they crowded the windows to see that the third bus was indeed gone. Fumbling with the phone Arthur immediately called Dr. Ophenia who had been driving the third bus. As soon as she picked up he was already yelling.
“Ophenia where are you!”
“Just a couple streets back, the engine gave out. It was the payoff for not getting this thing reserviced in time. Ill get it started don’t worry, is Calico on the way?” Arthurs face was red with anger. It had been his choice to wait on servicing the third transport.
“He is, get it going quickly ill tell them where you are, and Ophenia please be careful”
Chrysoar Castle
The standoff outside the Capitol zone had been quiet for many hours, the Capitolite men who stood watch in their line equipped with riot gear dozed off standing up. The three vehicles the group had were brought up, two aging Themis APCs with no weapons and a Spartan LAV with a heavy machine gun. They had been placed at strong points, the men mostly using them to lay on or sleep in as they rotated in and out, they were tired however they didn’t have infinite manpower.
The appearance of the aging Berlun from among the crowds however spurred action. As he walked over to the bodies in the no mans land and performed his rituals and prayers the squad leaders of the Capitol men barked orders, men half asleep bolted upright and ran to take positions in case it was another attack by the locals. But as the old man went about his duties the Capitolites merely watched, some with interest, others with distain. Nobody fired or moved, the exhausted masses armed and ready eyeing the old priest with every movement.
Zeister meanwhile had been eating when the event had happened, angry to be disturbed the man walked out onto the street in his jackboots and marched over to near the front. Climbing up onto the Themis closest to the street, much to the worry of his two aids the man almost gleaming from his uniform surveyed the scene and the priest. Looking upwards he could see the helicopters overhead; they had been here since they had first opened fire on the crowd. Pathetic he thought, why not arm them and assist his people when they were under such vicious attack?
“Priest. It is not safe here, withdraw immediately once your… Rites are concluded.” He jumped down from the Themis, anger in his voice.
“You disturbed me for this!” He shouted at an aid, drawing the look of many of the troops standing in a line. Before the bald little man could reply Trefeld quickly came out of the main building.
“A message sir, from the Authorities.” He handed Zeister the printed letter. The commanders nose wrinkling in disgust as he tore it up and threw it over his shoulder.
“Direct forces to pacify and prosecute aye? Maybe if they did that in the first place we wouldn’t have had to shoot any of these ungrateful subhuman scum! Don’t grace them with a reply, my orders still stand”
_Envoy Avenue (Carnaith)_
Vitiri shakily sipped from his glass as he stood cross-armed in the third floor hallway, listening to the emboldened but still soft roar that was the strong civilian presence on the ground. Ahead of him, two Imperial Guard gendarmerie troopers stood in light armor overlooking the stairs. Brandishing compact yet full-auto PDWs, their kit represented a not-insignificant fraction of the embassies' aggression response gear. He lowered the glass, pressing the tea - just somewhat thicker than water - between his tongue and the roof of his mouth, letting the aroma permeate through his sinuses... almost immediately, the rapidly-escalating calming effect soothed his jitters.
The breaches in the police lines last night had the Carnaithian populace of the area especially concerned, and at least one reception booth had been occupied for three hours by a single business proprietor who had been agonizing over every detail on the Imperial Release Regarding Transgression Response Within the Atmosphere of Natar - already he was on the second diplomatic aide after the first one was approved a break. Alak's mind drifted to the message the embassy received this morning, and the priority contact that in turn forwarded said message to him directly, not a second too soon.
The Tri-tone ring of his phone rung in his pocket, disturbing the relative peace of the third floor. One of the guards turned, clutching the strike plate of his kit, but the reflective dark orange visor prevented any direct eye contact. Giving each other a nod, the guard turned back to the stairs while Alak quickly made his way into his office adjacent - collecting his cutting-edge, if monolithic, phone from his pocket and answering.
“Hey, Alak, this is Khamir… Given the situation for Mr. Kalmine I think its best we give a joint front. Any ideas on what to advise him?” came the voice from the other end before he had a chance to say hello. That said enough alone, leading directly into Vitiri sighing in response.
"He's alone, right? I don't expect a Unioner to be armed in any sense, but that may be in his best interest. If not a gun, a knife. If not a knife, something. Other than that, tell him to collect enough non-perishables to last him a couple of days, I've already got staff looking over his apartments' blueprints for a hiding place."
He stopped without adding any of his usual quips. The level of depressing weight on the response hung in Vitiri's throat like a slug of solaris. The silence in response from Khamir was almost enough to bring him to tears, and he quickly took another sip of his tea.
"I know you didn't attend the Presidents' meeting, but I know you're at least aware of how he started it. It's obvious the local authorities want nothing to do with the safety of our people... If we can't take care of them, they have to do it themselves." Honestly, he hadn't gone to it either out of a greater concern for his own people... the river between the inner and outer city felt as wide as the void between Natar and Erdae-Terione. At least he almost had a handle on his feelings. An automatic speakerphone, something he turned on only for high-priority events, activated on his desk piece.
"Ambassador," it started without his input, immediately audible as the lead for II Squad, the security detachment sent to the University, "One of the buses fell behind. We've decided to get who we have back to the compound before any locals intercept. We'll see you in less than an hour," the lead stated, only the very soft hum of the electric engine for their vehicle in the place of his voice for but a second before the signal cut. Vitiri choked.
"Oh- By my..." he placed his glass down before pinching the bridge of his snout. "Khamir, I'm sorry."
UNION UNIVERSITY CONVOY (Ingen)
Yoshida listened with concern to the radio chatter flying back and forth.
"Should we go back for the other bus?" he asked nervously.
Takenaka's voice came back over the comms. "No, sir. We should escort the primary convoy to safety first, you included. I can take my marines back out if the third bus is still in trouble at that point."
Takenaka cut the mic and shook his head gently. He peered at the buildings rolling by, the smooth rollerballs of the LAV making his seat surprisingly comfortable. He was not a fan of the AA-42 gunspear, something he reflected on as he automatically checked it over. A cylinder in the slot, and the trigger assembly and sights extended for optimal use as a ranged weapon. He hoped he would not have to use it, but he knew that meant he almost certainly would...
Royal Federation Legation
Federation Embassy
"The people seem to be having a good reaction to our official help Corp. They're keeping things civil this side of the river, for the moment" Analise said plainly
"Good, make sure at the first sign of violence we have our people pull back to the embassy. We don't need Federation casualties out of this." Core replied sternly
"I haven't seen that shuttle arrive yet, is there something wrong?" Analise queried
"There's been reports of man portable anti air in the region, all shuttles are on hold until we have the all clear from the authorities. If the situation deteriorates that badly, you'll have to put the embassy into lock down and wait until help arrives." Corps responded coldly
Outside the efforts of the Federation had not gone unnoticed with more and more Telirans coming and going from triage stations and hydration points. The workers from the embassy greeted everyone with a smile and were as friendly as possible even to the Telirans who would come around to accuse them of Colonial Domination and meddling. As far as they were concerned they were there to hand out water bottles and light snacks for the protesters taking to the streets. The local and legation police were liaising with each other to keep them posted on the whereabouts of these posts the Federation had set up on the south side of the river, they weren't brave enough to go to the north side where hell had broken lose. Smoke billowed up and the noise of fighting, gunshots and rioters was all that filled the air closer to the river.
Imperial Legation Quarter
At the President's question, Gaivran blink in disbelief for a moment. "So what you're saying is that you basically have no plan to stop the rioting or assist in protecting the embassies. I for one, feel very assured, I truly do." Snorting in disgust, he glanced over at the other representatives. "Regardless of the governmental incompetence on display, the Imperial embassy stands ready to provide any required assistance. Please do not hesitate to ask if any of you need anything."
Disconnecting abruptly, he looked at his aide. "Any updates on that Jade convoy?"
"They appear to be running into some issues, but nothing insurmountable."
"Huh. Keep the Niners ready to go if they need extraction, and see if you can make radio contact."
---
Several minutes later, a military tech cleared their throat and flicked their mike on. "Jade Imperial convoy, this is technician Mayeth with the High Imperium embassy, checking in. Please respond."
As the red glare of dawn gave way to clear blue skies and fresh air of morning, the city of Kaban was bathed in misty light.
Monatt’s face in his voice call seemed to deflate and weaken with an increasingly sagged, depressed look as he accounted for those powers who had chosen not to attend his meeting. As the call went on he was forced to sit through what can only be described as an onslaught of reprimands and lockdown breaches. The biggest blow was the exceptionally undiplomatic statement by the High Imperials, followed by their preemptive disconnection. In response Monatt awkwardly chuckled and tried to continue as normal. The President seemed to wait for several minutes after everyone had finished their inquiries before going off screen, he would return after a brief period of chatter, smiling to the camera.
“...I’ve just talked to my people here, Mr…” He squinted, clearly trying to read the Union representative’s name on the screen of the call, “...Arcolo.”
“...They tell me that they’ve been told by some representatives from the North-Bank governing council that they’ve been informed by the Chief of the Kaban Constabulary, that he’s been assured by Natsiana Borough Police that they’ll have things under control at the University in a day or so.” He paused, seemingly considering whether he ought to actually address the Jorgal’s inquiries.
“...I ...I recommend that your evacuees make it to the closest police station or government building, this lockdown is in effect for everyone. As such they may be stopped if found to be obstructing the mobility of law-enforcement as they do their job. If they are already at your embassy, then that is fine too...”
The politician looked down to scan his notes from the round of inquiries and comments, moving on to discuss a handful of comments by unaligned representatives. The most notable of which was Orillia, who’s diplomat: Galyriczk, inquired on the Capitol situation, referring to the holdout as a Colonialist ‘Oppression-Point’. Monatt’s reply was short and simple: “Those insurgents in that fort of theirs are on their own.”
With that the President wrapped up what would quite possibly be the only direct contact with the central authorities for sometime as they went about trying to focus on this crisis. But just before the call ended, as other diplomats were leaving, those who had turned up and remained long enough were left to see Monatt finally break his tired smile and walk off-camera. As he left, presumably moving to speak with his aides, one could hear his echoing voice grunt,
“If those ungrateful runts are so unwilling to work with us- Then so be it, let them fend for-” With that the feed ended.
“Chrysaor Castle” (Capitol)
Following the command from Zeister, the Berlun clergyman slowly rose from his knees and gazed across the open land to the Capitolite stronghold. With the window gently billowing his robes as it whistled down the lane, the priest gently smiled and commented,
“Perhaps it is not safe for me to remain here, but the same might be said for your people. Yet you stand tall to protect you from danger, come what may.”
Placing a cloth upon the final body of a fallen protester, the priest simple finished by stating,
“...As do we.” With that, the old holyman quietly turned and disappeared amongst the crowd that continued to watch with a hate to the killers that stood over the barricades of the Capitolite neighbourhood.
Amid the decline of hostilities, for the time being, at Chrysaor Castle, the number of rumbling choppers overhead quickly began to disappear until only a single government helicopter remained; ever watching. It was unclear as to why the private helicopters had all so quickly decided to stop their surveillance, atleast for now. However, in the following hours as things had settled, the Capitolites were once more met by commotion from beyond the barricades.
A cacophony of jeers, screaming and clattering of thrown objects could be heard from the mob down the road as three patrol cars came racing through from the eastwards road into the Castle. They didn’t seem to care about how many rioters they bashed out of the way as they sped down towards the fortified neighbourhood as a loudspeaker called out,
“Clear the way!” The officer boomed over a megaphone, “Superintendent Kmara demands to speak with Mister Zeister!”
The Chief of the Kaban Police was here.
Envoy Avenue (Union, Carnaith)
Vitiri’s apology to Khamir over the line was quickly cut off by a sudden and ear-piercing bang through the Carnaithan’s room. It had come from the nearest window. Now etched across it was the spider web-like pattern of a cracked impact. Several seconds later the window boomed out through the office again as another brick came bashing against the glass again. Both had failed to break through considering the distance and height.
Down below, from both from the Union and Carnaith embassies, one could see a small group of increasingly agitated protesters below. The previously disgruntled demonstrators were becoming increasingly worked up by the apparent lack of effect as each became more confident in their actions than the next. Soon enough the Sasonish Telirans were chucking anything from stones to bricks to eggs.
All the while more news from Kalmine was feeding through to the embassy staff. Cracks of his own windows from projectiles, pictures of bystanders brandishing guns. There was even a picture of the mob in the streets even burning a straw effigy of what looked like some kind of Human in golden armour. After that the only incoming updates were black videos of Kalmine in his house with the lights out, sometimes asking when help was coming; always asking for updates on the wellbeing of his wife.
Natse Lane, (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
Unfortunately for all involved, the first and second Union-University and their escorts were cut from their evacuation as they rolled down the main road towards safety: Natse Lane. Despite being now relatively far from the anarchy towards the outer city, the convoy found themselves confronted by a different obstacle.
Several police vehicles, including a van, alongside some wooden barricades and fluorescent cones lined the entire roadway before the group. A single officer stood infront of the blockade with his hand up.
“Halt!” He shouted with a firm look upon his face as other officers kept their pistols trained at the wheels of the unpermitted convoy.
Considering they were out of harm's way, the blockage wouldn’t have been more than a minor nuisance for them. But the bigger and more alarming issue came from the other direction and side of the line. Calico’s relief was being forced to a halt too. Evidently the Kaban authorities were very conscious and focused on this breach of their authority, and were keen to keep matters under their responsibility over rogue national diplomats.
Flocks of random bystanders watched on in confusion, some recording, as a handful of police officers came strolling towards both convoys with tired looks on their faces. They routinely waved for the drivers to begin filing out of their vehicles,
“Alright folks… Come on now, fun’s over.” One officer mumbled whilst gesturing. His uniform was visibly torn up from wherever he had been posted last night, an indication that the police department was having to keep their men in service for far longer than they ought to be considering the daylight hours. Occasionally an officer would look up to the looming apartment buildings skirting the roads as though they were looking out for something or someone.
Upper Natse-Lane, (University Bus 3)
Ophenia’s own issues were far more troubling than that of her peers in the other buses. As her vehicle had trundled to a halt, they found themselves far enough from the university to be out of the way of the immediate mob. In fact, there were very few people around to begin with.
However, quickly enough some of the few Teliran bystanders went about recording the sight; others went running off to parts unknown. But the effects were quickly visible. It seemed that, as every minute went by, more and more people began to appear. First just several, then a dozen, then dozens, within ten minutes it seemed like hundreds were beginning to mass and their hostility only grew with their numbers. Soon enough people were beginning to fling garbage towards the bus and any staff-member or student outside of it.
One balaclava-donning Teliran even ran up and began spray painting slogans along the side of the bus. Moments later another with a tire-iron came running forward to begin striking at the wheels as glass bottles came smashing against the windows right in front of the student's heads.
Things were starting to look bleak.
The High Imperium Legation Quarter
For the South Bank, things were almost idyllic now. Especially with sunrise, most of the protesters had disappeared to get some rest and sleep. Only a handful of pickets remained during these hours. But by midday something disconcerting was noticeable for the High Imperium legation. The South Bank police officers previously stationed around their quarter to ensure security and watch of the situation abruptly began to disappear and abandon their guard. Driving or walking to unknown places. The Royal Federation legation received no such abandonment, atleast for now.
This was followed by two black automobiles rolling up through the High Imperial central lane along the riverside. From it emerged the thin figure of a suited Teliran, his pale skin practically burning under the cold morning sunlight as he dabbed his face with a handkerchief and shifted his shades before strolling into the High Imperial embassy followed by several other suited figures.
With a stern, authoritative expression upon his face, the lanky Teliran and his entourage glided up to the receptionist. The smooth, emotionless tone of the figure gave off an aura of eerie power about him,
“...Good morning. I… Will be speaking to your ambassador, today. It is in regards to the insurrection across the city.”
With a calm straighten of his tie and a polite, yet offputting grin, the figure offered a cold handshake from across the helpdesk, “Adjutant Salierto of the Associated States Administrative Officer. I am certain that we will be able to ensure positive change for the people of Natar, and to bring about a conclusive end to the bloodshed and damage in this municipality… Your employer is of a similar mind to mine in this matter. It would be in our best interest to meet.” He asserted.
The Royal Federation Legation Quarter
One matter of interest did pop up for the Royalist Federation quarter towards the end of the morning however. Through the embassy doors waddled the robed figure of an aged Berlun priest. His senile, wrinkled face looking to the receptionist with a gentle smile as he muttered,
“Good morning… I would like to speak to your ambassador if you would allow it…? It regards the struggle across the city…”
With a brief bow the priest introduced himself, “Bishop Clement of the Tesfeld See…I believe we may be able to bring about positive change for the people of Kaban and to bring about a peaceful end to the bloodshed and damage of this city… And I believe that your Ambassador desires a solution as we do. I would very much like to meet him.” He requested.
Ingen
The Respite LAV rolled to a stop, its heavy 14mm coilgun aimed over the blockade's heads. The doors did not open, but rather there was a loud thud and clatter as Sergeant Takenaka sprang from the flatbed to land on the road. His white metal armour, lined with gold, glinted faintly and a faint sheen gave it an almost glassy surface. His mask was that of a snarling dragon, the eyes small and empty like the gaze of a bear. Over his shoulder he had what looked like a spear with a lime-green crystal blade, whilst at his side hung a straight-backed scabbard.
He strode swiftly towards the policeman, stopping a few inches closer than was polite or respectable. For a moment, he simply scanned his head left and right, taking in the tired-looking police and their handguns. When he spoke, his tone was somehow polite and contemptuous at once, his calm delivery contradicting the words he spoke. He spoke in heavily accented Common.
"Good morning. I am Sergeant Takenaka, Imperial Jade Navy. You lower your guns immediately. Good idea for you, please. By authority of the Jade Empire of Ingen I escort Jade and Union of World citizens to the embassy location."
Behind him two more marines climbed out of the LAV but did not approach. Inside the LAV, the ambassador snatched at the radio nervously.
"Yes, Technician Mayeth, this is Ambassador Yoshida, we are held up on uh....Natse Lane...there's a police barricade across the street both ways. My men are out there now trying to...uh....reason with them," he said, generously applying the term to what he was sure were brusque demands being issued by his marines.
Upper Natse-Lane
“Everyone in the bus! Come on quickly!” Ophenia shouted to a couple of the students who had attempted to get out and try calm the now escalating crowds down. One of them was Teliran himself, studying galactic history, he had been confident he could talk the crowd out of whatever was coming and he was backed up by one of the Union students who took regular part in the debate clubs. They had been confident, until one of them had been hit by a rock.
People screamed as one of the buses windows were smashed. Ophenia trying her best to calm everyone down and take charge of the situation. But It was no use, some were crying others were angry and wanted to fight the crowd, it was no use. She knew they needed to get out quickly, it was only a matter of time before someone set the bus on fire with all of them in it.
“Why wont they come save us!” One student shouted.
“We have help on the way!” Another responded.
“Alright everyone listen up!” She had made up her mind. It was an insane plan but it was better than being burned alive on a bus “Leave everything behind, take nothing with you. We will all form up together in a group, those of us few staff will make up the outside, students on the inside. We will then calmly walk to the nearest police barricade ok? Cover your heads and faces and if you get hit by something keep walking” None of them seemed convinced but did what she asked too scared to do otherwise. They formed up outside the bus door, garbage still being thrown as the staff, only four of them, took the brunt to protect the students.
“Please we just are trying to get home!” One of the students shouted as the small group slowly moved forward away from the bus.
Natse Lane Bus 1&2
Arthur stormed over to the police barricade where sergeant Takenaka was trying to make his plea, the Teliran faculty member having rage in his eyes.
“What the hell is going on! We have students that are unaccounted for and we are trying to get the remaining young people to the safety of the embassy! Why are you blocking the road and putting all of our safeties at risk? Give us an escort and get us to the embassy, and while you’re at it send some police forces to go look for our third bus! Last we heard they were under attack by rioters!” The man pointed and shouted, he was having none of what was going on. Meanwhile the students and other staff members had somewhat dismounted, coming over to see what was happening, some looked panicked as if desperate to get ever further from the university campus which had been overrun.
Envoy Avenue
Khamir was furious, the loud bang had been audible even from his office and had broken him out of his already present rage over the telling from Arcolo. The way that Monatt had brushed off virtually all input from the foreign polities and then even failed to fully close the line mid-sentence had made the Union ambassador fly almost into a fit of rage.
Now the breaking and bustling of the protestors outside coupled with the images coming from Kalmines updates sent him over the edge.
“Tell the bloody police to either round those protestors down there up or we will do it for them with our security forces!” He snapped, Arcolo nodded and disappeared out of the room leaving Khamir to look down onto the protestors below with a sneer. They had done much for this world and this was how many would repay them. He put the thought down however, taking a deep breath. He was angry and it was not a good combination.
He knew they had no way to get to Kalmine, but Khamir had instructed them to reassure him none the less, to tell him his wife was fine and that they were doing everything they could to try and get some contingent out to him. Khamir made it very important that they inform him that it was the local government who were making such matters difficult for them. The lockdown of all travel had made him curse loudly from his office. The updates from Arthur and Calico were soul crushing. Any hope of rescuing Bus 3 would either be left to the local police which Khamir trusted about the same as Capitols Hydra Guard or Calico and the Carnaithians who would have to cause some political incident.
It was a rock and a hard place.
Chrysoar Castle
Zeister had merely grumbled to himself as the clergymen walked away.
“We will protect ourselves no matter the cost”
Still with the now declined activity they had implemented rotas, for the men to stand watch and also relax and rest. Most had been going for a day now at least some longer and the men needed sleep. Zeister had not rested himself, trying but only managing to get shattered rest he had since stood to attention looking over the constant updates handed out by Trefeld.
Still it was the sudden commotion outside that had soldiers that were resting, eating and relaxing scrambling back to the barricades. Capitolites rushed to grab weapons or riot gear, not even getting fully dressed as they barged out into the open to plug the holes in the line and be ready for whatever the crowd would throw at them. However it was even more surprising that what was coming was the police.
Zeister once again clambered up onto the top of the Themis APC. His uniform still immaculate thanks to him having taken his time to neatly clean it despite having little rest. Trefeld stood behind the lines as the cars raced in through the crowd, the protestors being hit out of the way making Zeister visibly smile. It was about time they had representation here.
“Took them long enough eh?” Zeister said aloud, the Capitol line murmuring with agreement and subtle laughter.
As the vehicles pulled up Zeister, having still kept his high ground position on top of the APC called out.
“Welcome Superintendent Kmara. Fine day for peacekeeping wouldn’t you say?”
Carnaith
The impact against the window was startling not because of the hostilities - that was being mildly braced for due to the surrounding situation regardless - but because of the outside pane of the bulletproff glass cracking the way it did. Carnaithian embassies outside of domestic territory or especially close nations, such as the union, were structurally strong by default due to prior attacks on foreign delegations in response to the Empire's... assertive tactics in diplomacy in most cases. While Natar before this point had been seen as a stable location, and the embassy on Envoy avenue hadn't been given an exceptionally strong security detail, the architecture used when building the location was nevertheless retained. Alak poked his head down the hall once more, and the guard he had met eyes with before was already walking down the stairs to the lobby in order to assist in front-facing security matters; Vitiri grimaced.
"Liz! Get a call out, get the staff to finish prepping panic spaces. Recall as many citizens as you can, we're locking up early. I'm heading across to talk to Khamir in person," Vitiri shouted across the hall as he motioned to retrieve a secure backup from his computer.
"Already on it, Al," Mere responded much more calmly.
Alak quickly walked down the hall, taking a right where the troopers had been, and looking across the short skybridge to the Union building and the small security checkpoint on the other side. The windows here were being pelted just the same, and he could hear shouting and curses from below where many of the Carnaithians in the area were already gathered - They were being guided to the large meeting rooms and kitchen that were usually kept for state visits, but made just fine for emergency housing. He collected himself and briskly walked across, even as stone after brick after egg after trash impacted just a meter from his head. At least the tea was making more of an effect now.
The Carnaithian convoy element returning with the Jade LAV wasn't nearly as militarized, but the armored executive transport was designed with much the same considerations as the embassy building itself. It held no hidden armament, but its protective measures were extensive - as protected as one could be without looking too dissimilar from a legitimate civilian vehicle.
"I wish we brought the Pride," the disenchanted driver said while the passengers in the back spoke in hushed whispers. The interior was cramped, especially when carrying maximum capacity plus four troopers, but Lyk was glad they had this many.
"With the Pride we'd be leaving people behind - more than we already are," The security lead responded from the front passenger seat, using the vehicle's embedded cameras to examine the scene. Something didn't sit well - He linked his body and helmet cameras to the vehicle's computer. "I'll get out, don't let anyone else leave the vehicle," Lyk quickly re-directed, meeting the exasperated response of the driver as he, too, walked along the right side of the convoy up to where Takenaka was, though... a few steps behind. He, like the guards at the embassy proper, was armed with a compact PDW, though he carried extra ammo due to the expeditionary nature of this particular action.
"I'm inclined to agree with the Sergeant here, there's no need for hostility," He began. "Lieutenant Padov Lyk, Carnaithian Ambassadorial Guard. What is the purpose in stopping us?"
Royal Federation
The manner of which the bishop came to the embassy and his inquiry granted him immediate access to see Analise. He was escorted politely into a room with a large conference table and he was supplied with some light snacks and water while Analise materialsed her hologram sitting upright in the chair across from him.
"I'm Analise of the Royal Federation, I've heard about your proposition and i'm curious to hear more about it." She said smiling politely to the Berlun.
High Imperium
There was a brief pause from the Imperial technician before she responded. "Understood. Please know that support is on standby should you require it."
---
As the police officers deserted their posts, Gaivran issued orders for the levy units to hand to fill the gap, but could only shake his head as he viewed the reports.
Every envoy and diplomat was trained for sieges, but most of the one who were dispatched to locations that looked like that might be an issue had more military support. Of course he didn't have that support, because he hadn't been expected to need it! Not on Natar, of all places!
Cursing under his breath, a soft ping made him look at another screen that displayed a strange Teliran in the lobby. A chirp from his earpiece, and the receptionist was informing him that an "Adjutant Salierto" was asking to see him.
Hmph. Well this was interesting. He might as well let the man up. Responding to the receptionist to inform her of that, he watched the slim alien nod to the woman at the desk, then go towards the elevators...
Natse-Lane (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
The Teliran police officer didn’t seem to shift at all from the approach of the imposing figure of Sergeant Tanaka. Looking up to the Jade soldier with droopy eyes, it seemed like the officer hadn’t slept in days, responding to Tanaka the officer mumbled,
“...Good morning… Yada-yada…” He broke his speech with an exhausted yawn before looking down to his clipboard, the officers seemed to lower their guns on their own volition as the situation calmed. Shaking his head, the depleted officer replied without even looking up from his clipboard, “...No… No… Your vehicles are impounded…”
Shaking his head, the officer looked up to the Sergeant and tried to speak as clearly as possible, presuming the broken English to be a sign of a lack of fluency. He proceeded to pronounce each individual word as clearly as possible, “You. Break. Lockdown. Your. Truck. Must. Be-” He was then interrupted as Padov entered the scene,
“Yes, yes- I was just telling… Just telling this guy here that-”
The officer’s explanation was swiftly broken by the rapidly approaching footsteps of Arthur to the frey. The policeman seemed to awaken a little by the urgent shouting of Arthur as he turned and calmly raised a hand to gesture for the University administrator to calm down,
“Sir… We are aware of the troubles in the city… We are doing everything we can to keep things in order… Having foreign military vehicles and unpermitted convoys of students without police escorts does not help the situation…”
Wincing, the officer raised his free hand to rub the bridge of his nose. His attention was provoked once more, causing his eyes to open, from the commotion being caused as police officers tried to wrangle the students and return them to the buses.
“...Look sir, I don’t make my orders… I follow them… I’ve been told to stop this convoy by Superintendent Kmara himself… My job is to take these vehicles to the precinct…” Giving a tired groan, the officer massaged his temple, indicating a headache as he muttered,
“...Look, I can get a chopper and a van sent to this last bus of yours, but I’ve got to impound these vehicles… That’s all I can offer you. If you want you can make it to the embassy on foot, I didn’t receive anything telling me I have to arrest you guys... ”
Upper Natse-Lane (University Bus 3)
The emergence of the party of university staff and students was met by an uproar of cheers from the masses. Many celebrated what they saw as some sort of victory as many more quickly rushed forth to swarm the bus; quickly covering it in graffiti art as others began smashing its windows. The party could not be the cacophony of shouting from the rioters and the wailing of the bus’ break-in alarm as it was vandalized.
While most focused on the defenceless and inanimate bus, others followed the group. Keeping a distance as they trailed behind the group, the students and teachers were assaulted with heckles and taunts as cans came hailing down upon them. It was a long walk down this very open highway, and what looked like crowds of rioters lay ahead as well. The swarming rioters would certainly only get more violent and confident in their attacks if they continued out here. If they kept to this path, there was scarcely a chance of fending for themselves, but they could far easily be seen by a rescue team.
There were, on the other hand, alleyways to either side, nestled among the cliff-faces that were the apartment buildings that skirted the lane. These winding, dark routes among the concrete blocks would be easy to escape their pursuers in. But there was no guarantee of their safety there; even less of a guarantee that any rescue party would locate them within the city's infrastructural undergrowth. If they took the alleyways, their chances of helping themselves would be higher, but they would surely be on their own.
__
Chrysaor Castle (Capitol)
From the squad car emerged the looming figure of Superintendent Kmara. Sometimes referred to as Commissioner Kmara, the portly Teliran proudly clasped onto his ceremonial baton and adjusted his sharply-pressed uniform. With a beaming smile, the Superintendent quickly rushed forth to Zeister as he boomed, "If only my forces were capable enough to do so!” He chuckled.
Commissioner Kmara was no stranger to the Capitolites, though he had rarely met with them face to face. His willingness to take money and deals with those higher up the exile chain-of-command, such as Raxis himself, was the very reason the Capitolite community in Kaban had what they had. It was the reason why, during the Sasona War that ended only several years ago, the government had never seized military vehicles and munitions from the Capitolite exiles to fuel their own war effort. It was also the reason why crime reports surrounding the Capitolite neighbourhood were scarcely investigated seriously.
Taking one of Zeister’s hands to firmly shake, even if Zeister had offered neither, the Teliran’s grin faded as they came close.
“Things are not good Mister Zeister, not good at all…” He paused, “...Perhaps we may discuss this somewhere more private?”
The Teliran continued as he began to stride through the Capitolite compound, seemingly being able to speak with his lips barely moving as he held a smile for any onlookers. He looked at those he passed as if he were an officer inspecting his own troops.
“Entire provinces are going dark throughout the city, squad cars are failing to report in, and my riot police lines are breaking.” He hissed through his public smile; waving to a Capitolite family as he passed, “We have reports of gunfights, separatist cells infiltrating the riots, even a councilman being killed in his house…”
The Superintendent came to a halt as he entered the enclosed front porch of a nearby house. His smile disappeared as quickly as turned around,
“Sasona is in an open revolution, and there is no hope left. Entire police units are no longer listening to my commands. Most are going rogue to help their rebellious comrades, the corrupt ones are too self-serving to do anything but control the South Bank, and those remaining are too exhausted and overworked. We’ve already lost.”
“All we can do now is save ourselves before we’re thrown to the masses.” Kmara crossed his arms, “The Comprehensive Reaction Plan the government has been preparing is not a crackdown operation, it’s a general withdrawal, what remains of our law enforcement is fleeing to the South Bank to hold the government center and hold on for what time we can until relief arrives.”
Kmara looked at Zeister, a brow raised, “I have come here to bring you with me. You have no business here Kommandant, dying among the common rabble; torn apart by the savage maniacs out there. Come with me, join me, and we shall make it out of this insanity alive.” The Superintendent restored his smirk once more.
__
The High Imperium Legation Quarter
Minutes later, Salierto emerged from the doorway of Gaivran’s office. The Adjutant was no longer bearing any positive expression, but instead a deadpan. Stepping forth towards the ambassador’s desk, the Teliran gave a brief bow before shuffling the files under his arm.
“Mister Ambassador… I am Adjutant Salierto of the ASAO. This is all you need to know of me.”
The man gave little time for the ambassador to dwell on his identity as Salierto quickly followed by adding, “But who I am is of much less concern to you than what I am working toward.” The Teliran cleared his throat,
“For decades now, the Tesfeld Union State, and its protector: The Kalethian Republic, have struggled with consistent separatism from the ethnic Sasonish people of this region. You know this much, yes?”
“Well, I am tasked with ensuring that this separatist uprising at present is brought to a swift and effective conclusion along the outlined wishes of my supervisor. I believe the High Imperium, in particular your legation here, is similarly concerned with bringing back a swift and decisive strike to the rebel opposition groups that exist within this city.”
The Adjutant sat down at a chair before Gaivran and passed a file to him. Inside of it displayed a brief overview of separatist activities within the Sasona region, along with more relevant information about the recent escalation of violence by the rioters in Kaban.
“Breaking them here will break their spirit or perception of hope. They were nearly broken before a certain Roma Efiki roused them with her speech on Sasonish Independence before becoming their martyr. What we are seeing here is their last gasp at rebellion. Crush this, and the violence will melt away.”
Placing his fingers together to form a pyramid as he reclined into his seat, Salierto concluded, “Aiding the ASN in bringing about the destruction of this protest will greatly bolster our connections… And more immediately, it is in your best interest to aid in swiftly ending the threat to your legation. Establish checkpoints in your legation, coordinate defensive preparations with your fellow embassies; prepare for war.”
“...Might I also add…” Salierto muttered as he took the file back and returned it to his collection, “...That the cooperation of the High Imperium is of utmost importance… We have good reason to believe that your... Francophone neighbours next door… Have been actively strengthening the spirit and optimism of these rioters, their effects must be counterbalanced by the initiative of your own legation if our interests are to prevail.”
“If the separatist will is to be broken, and Natar is to be protected, you must give your neighbours a bloody nose. Convince them to back off somehow… Send agents to disrupt their community outreaches, attempt to seize a street or two for your legation amidst this chaos… Anything. Just keep them busy or knock them out of the equation.”
Royal Federation Legation Quarter
The Priest waddled into the conference room with a rather senile old look to Analise. After a moment of squinting, the Berlun chuckled and admitted, “My eyes aren’t what they used to I'm afraid… I wasn’t sure if you were the dignitary or the help!”
Though the cleric waddled over to the conference table, he did not sit, he instead preferred to lean against his staff. “Yes…” He mumbled to himself, “...I come to you seeking both the wisdom of your Federation… And your help.”
His hands shaking a little as he withdrew a small notepad from his pocket, the old man offered it to the AI before rambling, “For five years I have worked with the Sasona people… They are not bad people… They have just been abused… Downtrodden and occupied by a self-serving Teliran nation-state called Kalethia… Every chance at freedom or democracy these people have pursued, they have been beaten down by the polished boots of some gluttonous hedonists on the other side of the planet…”
The priest sighed, “...Your recent work to, at the very least, alleviate the suffering in this city has done much to help draw the Sasonish people towards their real enemy. Their true foes are not foreigners and aliens, this is exactly what their true enemy has been wanting them to think. Their real enemies are those corrupt nation-states across this planet that occupy the Sasonish, and use division to control their hold and exploitation.”
Inhaling, the Berlun finalised with a request, “You have already done more in service to the Sasonish people than God has asked of you… But I plead that you assist us further… Keep the protests on the right track by showing that there are nations beyond Natar that care!” Pausing, the bishop added, “There is one more matter…”
“...The High Imperials do not share a similar view of reconciliation with natives… They have displaced billions in the galaxy… And recent behaviour during this riot has shown little has changed in their attitudes here. If the violence, bloodshed and threat of this riot towards your fellow ambassador’s is to be alleviated, you must detain the High Imperium from making the situation any worse... Have the other embassies cut cooperation with them... Attempt to disarm some of their police units… Anything of such sort will contain them from deteriorating relations with the rebellion.”
With a final smile, Clement muttered, “The established government of this city cares little for your embassies… They have left you all to self-defence… And while the opportunists and extremists among the uprisers will still no doubt try to assault the embassies, I am determined to guide the core movement towards the true foes; not you. But for this I need your aid.”
High Imperium
As the Adjutant spoke, Gaivran's expression deepened into a thunderous scowl. Something didn't seem right. Here was Salierto, speaking of the Federation supporting the rebels, and attempting to convince him to strike out against the Federation legation as a means of crushing and demoralizing the rioters. But people like Salierto didn't just show up from nowhere.
No, they had masters who sent them out. Unfortunately, the identity of the Adjutant's superior was a mystery for the moment. However, Gaivran felt fairly confident that he knew at least part of the motivation in sending him here. After all, if the Federation and Imperial legations were busy fighting, than the rioting would go unchecked. To what end, he didn't know, but it still spoke volumes about the envoy they'd sent him as poisoned bait. Time to send this particular lackey packing, then.
Leaning forward, he folded his hands on his desk. "Perhaps it has escaped your notice, sir, but I do not answer to you and I do not answer to your government. I am here to represent the Imperium's interests in the region and to serve as mediator between our two nations if needed. I am not here to intervene in your conflict, nor am I here to assault my fellow ambassadors. That said, I would consider" Here the ambassador stressed the word heavily, "providing aid to the Tesfeld Union if it was requested."
He stood and tapped a button on the desk to summon security to escort the man out. "You will be escorted out. Please offer my regrets." Turning away as the guards came in and led Salierto out, he also issued an all-points alert within the quarter. It would be foolish to think that there would be no retaliation for his dismissal of the Adjutant. Although something smelled off, to be honest.
Something like the Adjutant had just attempted, with setting the Imperial and Federation delegations against each other seemed...too hamfisted. It reeked of brute force manipulation in a way the Telirans weren't known for. Not to mention if there was somebody at his door, it only stood to reason that there was someone else who had been sent to the Federation. Best be prepared for if the ambassador over there decided to take leave of his senses.
Natse-Lane (Ingen)
Takenaka was incredulous, though his helmet did not show it. Impound our vehicles? Are they mad?
He shook his head. The city was falling apart and this flatfoot had decided now was the time to boot a Respite LAV of the Jade Marine Corps?
Takenaka turned and yelled at Arthur at the students. "Get back on the buses! We are leaving now!"
Then he spoke to Yoshida over comms, his helmet muffling his speech.
"Sir, they are demanding to impound our vehicles. They say we broke lockdown."
"What? That's ridiculous. We have diplomatic immunity! Do they want us to walk to safety?"
"Yes sir."
"...I was joking, are you serious?"
"Yes sir. I intend to proceed through their barricade."
"Wait, what do you mean **through?!"
Takenaka cut off the call and turned back to the police officer.
"So sorry, there has been a misunderstanding. We have diplomatic immunity. We will proceed to the Union Avenue, thank you have a nice day."
As he did so, the Respite's engine began to rumble ominously. It had been idling, not completely shut off, but now First Marine Kato revved it meaningfully. The vehicle was huge, nearly two metres tall, with durable maglev rollers and tough armour plating. Designed for war zones, it looked decidedly out of place parked on Natse-Lane Avenue.
Upper Natse-Lane (Union)
The sight of the bus being smashed and grafitied and the Union university symbol being smashed in on the side made the students angry, some were crying as they made their way off the bus but it was clear that leaving it despite the sudden pelting by rubbish and rocks was a good idea. No doubt it would not be long until someone set it on fire, better to brave the outside than die in flames hemmed in by rioters.
“Where do we go!” One of the students shouted.
“Look in there!” Another pointed to the alley ways “We can hide in there and be safe!”
“We won’t be found if we run into a warren of alleys” Ophenia shouted in return over the jabs and jeers of those around them, the staff continuing to try shield the students as much as possible. She looked up onto the highway at the crowds assembling but also at the sky and the possibility of rescue. She made a split-second decision.
“We continue on the highway down to the embassy, keep close to us and do nothing to antagonise. If things get violent, I want you all to run. If any of you spot any sort of aircraft or surveillance drone, we all shout and wave our hands, we need to be found so we can be lifted out of here!” Her choice garnered mixed reactions from the students and even staff, but they didn’t have time to stand and debate as the crowds continued to harass them forward.
Envoy Avenue: Union Embassy
Khamir was visibly pacing in his office as Alak briskly entered the room. The Union ambassador looked ragged with stress, staring out the window as he paced towards the shouting protestors below, he was turning a small intricate ball in his hand before he glanced over and saw Alak enter, his entire demeanour changing as he stopped pacing, put down the ball and walked over to him.
“Alak good thank creation you’re here. Shit keeps getting worse by the minute” As if on que another set of fireworks were set off just outside the grounds creating a large boom and several smaller crackles “Our fucking security units have been stopped by Teliran roadblocks and now I am being told by some snobby local authority receptionist that the vehicles are being impounded. I have no word on the state of Bus 3 and Kalmine is constantly calling and worried about the safety of his situation. And on top of that these fucks won’t shut up” He gestured outside. He sighed before offering Alak a seat realising he had rather unceremoniously jumped at the ambassador with the situation without even offering a sit down.
“I used to be a XO in the Navy Core for creations sake, had my career all planned out. Volkus offered me this position and told me all the perks of such a transfer, I believed him and dammit it did come with a lot of perks, working here has done me and this place good but now I am dropped in this shit and it all seems worthless” He walked over to his desk and slumped into his chair.
“Please say you are here with some good news, otherwise death by aggressive table slamming seems a good way out right about now” He forced a smile.
Natse-Lane Buses 1&2 (Union)
“Doesn’t help the situation? By creation man have you not seen what happened to the university? We got out of there when they torched the place, what the fuck where we supposed to do stay put and wait to burn to death? Get a chopper and a van down there now irregardless or you will have dead students and staff on our hands!” Arthur continued to yell pointing to the smoke rising from the direction of the University site. Arthur turned to Takenaka and Padov, talking much more quietly after the man’s dismissal of the police officer.
“Quite right as a statement. Perhaps we should go anyway. There are young lives at stake and these young people too need to still get to safety” He gestured to the buses still waiting with their engines running, students and staff looking through windows or standing outside waiting to hear what was happening.
Chrysoar Castle (Capitol)
Zeister smiled at the superintendent and eagerly shook his hand gesturing for him to follow through the Capitol lines and back towards the building they had owned.
“Perhaps your forces need some training from us eh? Things definitely do not look so good my friend, judging from the crowds staring down me and my men” He commented as they walked through the line of Capitol soldiers, many staring awkwardly as several stepped forward to help protect Kmaras car and convoy which had parked up. Several families from windows returned the wave as they walked.
The comments by the Superintendent didn’t illicit a response from Zeister as they walked until they finally stopped. The Capitol Kommodant turning to the Teliran with his uniform still immaculate, his face was one of hard lines and experience and he had been no stranger to war, foreign and domestic given his close ties with the Garrenists and then the Inarists.
“So, they intend to runaway, do they?” He said aloud, looking from Kmaras face out across the city.
“It doesn’t surprise me. Not in the slightest, this was never some spontaneous event it was clearly organised by some behind the scenes, no doubt numerous movements plotting together with their disgusting ideas trying to think they can make a difference. You ask me to withdraw with you to the South Bank, however can you guarantee that the families here and my men would also be given safe passage? I have no intention of dying here to scum, but I would not wish those under my care to suffer the same fate, even if they were to die with honour taking as many of the bastards down with them as possible” He smiled.
“Besides, our contingent are a powerful anti-crowd control, they could be a serious asset for you and your men that you have under your control still. Who knows, with us behind you perhaps you can push up that position a bit further hmm? Nobody will question any ‘favours’ when your rescuing them with well equipped soldiers at your back”
Carnaith
Vitiri considered Khamir a friend; in normal circumstances he could bear it to hide emotion and concern behind a stone face, but this was far from a normal situation and he wasn't about to lie to the man. As such, his response to the request for good news was to stop dead in his tracks, rasping his fingers along their opposing knuckles, and stare at the sphere that now rested on his peer's desk.
"I hadn't heard about the roadblock, honest. That must have been called in as I walked over... Evidently, the Jade contingent brought an IFV, so I'd think our hosts insane if they thought to try more extreme efforts to halt the convoy..." Alak more clearly responded as he walked over to the offered seat, moving to sit down. "I actually am coming here because I think it's about time to enact critical measures. I've already got Lizaki recalling all Imperial expats so we can lock up the embassy, and I'm certain a lot of them are dragging their own supplies here with them, but we both know the beginning step is to call home." He paused, making eye contact with the Unioner as his already-meek smile faded.
"The actions taken by the Monatt administration thus far have both been a disservice to the people of the region, as well as an outright betrayal of trust normally afforded by even offering a position of embassy, much less handing over the plots themselves. I recommend taking our own measures to distribute information regarding the situation and getting an outside intervention in order."
He felt bad for Khamir, he really did. He, himself, had friends in the Void Arms who wholly considered re-assignment to a diplomatic position to be a notice of demotion rather than respect. It almost seemed as if they were right; even more responsibility and none of the authority.
Padov had begun to jog back to the limo the moment Takenaka had made the disengaging statement, quickly opening the door and making his way inside, immediately turning to his subvocal communications kit.
"Maintain weapons standby guys. I think our friends are betting on a breakthrough," He said to the crew of the vehicle - its electric engine, as opposed to a reactor due to safety concerns, was quiet even when active, but was more than powerful enough for its claim to its status as an executive transport. "Wait, we're gonna be shooting?" One of the rookies knee-jerked in response, and out loud, quickly panicking the passengers, enticing a "Great sell, no-hands," from his partner in the back of the vehicle and a belittling stare from the Lieutenant as he turned to calm the now-panicking transportees.
"If that beast goes for the breakthrough, wait for the the buses to go through and stay glued to the last one's ass - I don't want any space for them to deploy spike strips and I don't want to get stuck here," Lyk quickly interjected to tell the driver.
Natse-Lane (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
“No, sir. These need to come-” The Police officer cut himself off, sighing in frustration at the futility of his task as he watched the Ingenious forces return to their vehicle. The Teliran offices that stood by their striped barricades and squad cars gradually came walking to the sides; watching as the convoy quite literally smashed its way through their vehicles.
None of the officers even said anything or did anything as they watched the group bash through their blockade. The silence surrounding the convoy was rather eerie as every officerwatched the vehicle pass by. There was no shouting, no deployment of counters to the convoy, nor any gunshots. In the eyes of each officer, there was no look of energy, hope or willpower; they simply couldn’t be bothered with handling another mob or untouchable foreigner amidst the chaos anymore. So the Telirans simply stood by the wayside as their blockade, along with their resources, were smashed through; leaving the party to continue their journey onwards back onwards to the ambassadorial avenue.
Chrysaor Castle (Capitol)
Kmara was quick to nod in agreement to Zeister’s hypothesis of underlying manipulations towards the causation of the uprising. He promptly added on by affirming,
“I think the same. No doubt some foreign power like the Union has been stirring this up, we just crushed the separatist war effort several years ago as I'm sure you recall… Considering the role of some of your countrymen in providing the mercenary work which has so recently come to light. If it weren’t for that two-faced bitch, Roma Efiki, though, none of this blood would be split.” The Superintendent grimaced. The mention of the Kommondant’s men quickly promoted Kmara to shake his head and look straight into Zeister’s eyes.
“I only have a place for one in my car. You can take who wishes in your own vehicles, but you must charge the rest of your people to fight on until the psychopaths have been pacified on the streets.” With that, the Teliran placed a hand onto the officer’s shoulder.
“And for that we need to consolidate in the South, strengthen our position, and whip what few men I can prepare true action to deal with the true enemies of the people. Monatt is a buffoon; more concerned about conspiracies claiming the Kalethians organising this very uprising against their oversight.”
Kmara proceeded to draw his pistol from his holster, cocking it and keeping it to his side as he trailed once more from the house and back towards his sleek, black staff car. “I’m no believer in crackpot theories, Zeister, but I do believe in keeping a bunch of thugs and thieves in their place.” The Superintendent came to halt at his vehicle.
“Come with me Zeister to the Southbank. If either of us stay here, we’ll be butchered like animals. This is your ticket out of here; you shall not get this opportunity again.”
High Imperium Legation Quarter
Adjutant Salierto was quick to follow up on Gaivran’s response. His face remain unaltered, kept in a perpetual, distant stare upon the ambassador as the Teliran calmly opened his mouth; pausing before noting,
“Your ambassadorial legations upon this planet extend beyond just Kaban, Mister Ambassador. Your intransigence towards aiding the ASN and the Tesfeld Union State in handling this disorder will not go unnoticed by the Stadtholder. This will impact any willingness to support the High Imperium in its own times of need in future.”
With that, the bureaucrat looked to the two guards before making his own way towards the door. Before leaving, Salierto promptly stopped and added, “Oh.” He turned.
“I should inform you that the leader of the Separatist peace opposition to the Tesfeld government met with the Royal Federation legation ambassador earlier this morning.” The figure paused to hear the muffled sound of a car horn from outside among the hubbub of the city street, “...I see little reason for the Tesfeld authorities nor the ASN Intervention to… How did you put it, ‘intervene in your conflict’, should they decide to seize jurisdiction over your legation territories should that prove profitable for them.”
Salierto proceeded to walk out, placing a government contact card upon a small counter on the way out, “I pray both for the Tesfeld State, and your own government, that they do not.”
Upper Natse-Lane (University Bus 3)
The prediction of arson was no untrue. It was only several minutes later of making their way down the large, open boulevard that they could begin to make out the plumes of black smoke emanating from their bus. Their distance, however, did not seem to deplete their assaults. The crowds now seems to grow now that their bus had been dealt with; all eyes were on the university group.
Bottles came flying at them through the air as their ears were pummeled by the cacophony of shouting, discordant music from countless sources, screaming and clattering objects. Soon the crowds had swelled four-fold. However, even worse lay ahead for the party. Down the long road, rather than seeing help lie ahead, they instead saw legions of more people from another gathering. Together the mob forced a wall from building to building, who quickly began to approach the other mass in their focus upon this completely unknown group to them; they joined in the heckling and throwing two.
The group was being surrounded.
But as the minutes went by and crowds thickened in their numbers, which people now were becoming so bold as to charge towards the team with weapons. They continued trying to strike out at the heads of the staff with bats, crowbars, bike locks and anything else they could find. But their bombardment abruptly came to an end as their torrent of strikes was suddenly replaced by the roaring of rotors.
From above loomed the silhouette of a circling police helicopter. The residential blocks that lined the roads kept the vehicle from landing, but the sounds of its blades and the booming megaphone voice of a Teliran shouting orders in Sasonish quickly melted away the confidence of the crowds. The group had been granted respite for now as the cracking sound of a marksman from the helicopter sent the masses rushing a healthy distance from the university party.
As all seemed well, something bad happened. Something very bad.
Above the chattering and worried hubbub of the locals, there came this overpowering hiss of something like a firework being sent up into the sky. It was undecipherable from where the sound came, but its destination was more sudden. From above the ear-breaking crack was followed by a deathly rumble.
Like a bird hit from the sky, the police helicopter came drifting downwards as the machine’s motor let out a high-pitched groan, like a balloon deflating. The sound of its rotors had now changed, the constant whirring was now replaced by the ever-rising and lowering-pitch of the dying machine.
At first its descent seemed controlled, only pivoting slightly as the chopper rapidly lowered towards the road. But the moment its blades even seemed to come close to the nearby building, the entire thing seemed to explode in a hellish spray of rotors, metal and rubble. The moment the helicopter hit the building, the street exploded into screams and wails of panic, car alarms joined the orchestra of terror as the city seemed to erupt into the distant cry of sirens.
Debris had smashed down in all directions, some objects smashed into those among the crowds as people came running in all directions. Some barged through the students into nearby alleyways as others desperately tried dragging or tending to the collapsed bodies of victims at the disaster area. Flames licked up the side of the hit residential building as the crack of gunfire down the lane indicates that the danger was far from over.
Suddenly the group were intercepted by a middle-aged Teliran. Terror was clearly in his eyes as he cried out, “With me! Follow me!” As he disappeared through a broken pane for a nearby shop.
The aftermath of Roma’s brutal and cruel killing was just as swift as the news of it spread. What started originally as an archipelago of agitant gatherings and demonstrations through the city quickly collapsed into a torrent of anarchy. The outrage at the death of a woman who did little more than speak out against colonial rule rapidly accelerated, as did Roma’s image. From a simple figurehead of a movement bigger than herself, the upstart journalist became a martyr, a perceivable symbol both of the Sasonish resilience and colonial brutality. Few questioned who was behind the killing, it seemed very clear. But soon the men behind the murder became less relevant than what they represented.
To the movement, the killing of Roma Efiki and the Sasonish struggle against their Kalethian colonial rulers became a microcosm for an even greater hierarchy of planetary strife. “The Kalethian rulers...”, came the saying, “...are just as much a puppet to the galactic colonials as the Sasonish government is to the Kalethians”. 14 hours after her death, tens of thousands more Sasonish people had taken to the streets of Kaban, their capital. Prior to her death, Kaban’s police could control the situation. But with the crowds now enraged and increasingly dangerous, entire blocks were being surrendered to the anarchy as law enforcement began their efforts to contain the situation. Overstretched and underprepared, the local authorities quickly began withdrawing from the most dangerous residential areas. The tight streets of which threatened officers by being surrounded and overwhelmed by the clamouring crowds.
With the surrendering of certain areas of the city to their violent inhabitants, the police had hoped that it would free up the manpower to continue holding the main roads, the lifeblood of the city. They were wrong. Within hours of the initial police retreat, hordes of rioters from the taken districts began marching into the open roads of the city. Some rebels used their own vehicles to form blockades to halt the flow of traffic as reports of widespread chaos on the streets only invigorated the discontented masses further. The hastily formed lines of underequipped police, were quickly forced to pull out as a hail of bottles, bricks and even a speeding car came barreling upon them. The crowds held the initiative, and the spontaneous group mentality among the masses was going unopposed, even appeased as the Sasonish government desperately tried to fall back and form strongpoints.
By 8PM; threatened by waning authority over the outer sections of 1st and 2nd Avenues in the East and South-East, Kaban Municipal Police began recalling teams away from the Eastern districts, forcing them to retreat from one district in that area altogether as other Eastern blocks became a chaotic match between stray squad cars and swelling crowds of rioters. Sensing the lack of authority, the Eastern districts exploded into looting, shopping streets collapsed into a cacophony of jeers as front windows of businesses were smashed. Looting was becoming increasingly commonplace, even in areas still officially controlled by the police. Some recordings were even beginning to circulate of xenos and Teliran collaborators being dragged through the streets and beaten, some reportedly being killed.
Still the police were not given the orders to use extreme force as dusk came and even more Telirans flocked to the streets, some now from outside of the city. Not even the city center was secure any more as rumours of Telkasi Palace being firebombed spread through word of mouth. The abandoned districts now became blackzones; few knew what was going on there any more and plumes of smoke were starting to rise. The few places untouched so far by the chaos of the outskirts were instead shrouded by an anxious emptiness. Few pedestrians were around; fewer cars. From the South Bank things still seemed unmoved, there was scarcely an angry shout. Things were more tense the further North things went though.
The Union and Carnaithan ambassadorial area, nicknamed Envoy Avenue, was practically a ghost-town as of now; with its average footfall being the occasional businessman rushing down the road or a lone babushka slowly shuffling home with her shopping bags. It was a far cry from the usual hubbub of sightseers, city-goers and cars.
News from the outer districts was more troubling. The lesser consulates, notably the Jade consulate and Union university, found themselves considerably closer to the heated areas. The trouble was mere blocks away from them now as occasional groups of young men came strutting down the street, jeering at any foreigners they saw. Every so often a police car would come barreling by at top speeds, their sirens wailing through the street. But this eerie, seemingly unstoppable rumble of rioting from not far away was a distinct improvement for the situation now of the Capitolites.
The Capitolite Exile community in Kaban was not big, but they were distinct and tightly knit. The role of their brethren in aiding the Kalethian imperialists in the reason war for independence had not made their nationality any friends in Sasona either. They consequently became one of the first targets of the earlier chaos. With entirely lost blocks not far from their neighbourhood, the streets around “Capitown” were filled with roving bands of angered locals; every street around the Capitolites was now in danger of being lost as bottles were chucked over the expatriate’s makeshift road blockades. Even the occasional gunshot seemed to ring out, but most were still unarmed. The police in the area were melting away as their presence was being steadily forced back by the incensed hordes, as young Telirans kicked and through any line the police could muster. It thus seemed like it would not be long now before the Capitolites would be entirely isolated; cut off from any desperate hope of breaking out with their families.
The entire city was coming to a halt and the causes were still far out of sight from the South Bank and diplomatic district. But one thing was for certain, the news from the television showed no signs of the situation deescalating, it looks like the entire country was about to spiral into chaos, and finding themselves located right in the middle of it were the now-stranded diplomatic quarters of a handful of foreign xeno consulates, embassies and emigre neighbourhoods. Still, one hope of an early resolution remained in the local authorities.
It was becoming very clear that the Sasonish puppet government was now tiptoeing the line between appeasing the pro-independence calls of their population and cracking down as per the wishes of their Kalethian overseers. Head of Government for the Tesfeld Union state, the Kalethian puppet state over Sasona, President Monatt himself had already arranged a visual conference over the net with the local ambassadorial missions in regards to the recent troubles in Kaban. Set to begin at 5AM, not far from the present time, he had assured that it would answer any questions or fears in regard to the situation. Every major representative was to be present.
Union Embassy
“The situation certainly isn’t improving.”
“No sir, it seems to be getting worse. There are already reports of potential dissenter scouts eyeing up our zone. Sergeant Calcico has reported that a few were taking pictures of him and his men as they attempted to convene with the Carnaithian security teams. It seems they might be coming for us next” The staff member had worry in her voice, completely understandable given the circumstances. It was a very real threat that they were now under, and while the Ambassador had no doubt that their security teams would do their best trying to stop an entire city in a riot was an impossible task.
“I see. Tell Calcico to remain at the ready” He paused “Oh and tell the staff to start thinking about what materials we have to erect barricades, and check the armoury I know we don’t have much but anything that can help deter violence is needed” Ambassador Khamir added, the young staff member in front of him feeling the weight of the words and pausing for a second in shock.
“Don’t worry I am sure this will be dealt with or die down before they get here. Its purely for precaution make sure to relay what I said though just in case” He gave a reassuring smile and the women nodded before exiting the room. Khamir let out a long breath as he closed his eyes, from the desk by the window he could see out across the section of the city. The dull orange glow out before him signalled the women’s worries to be entirely founded, with the almost soft response of the authorities their prospect here was grim. He had already talked to the Carnaithian ambassador when this was a confined affair but now the rioters were getting close to the University, he flicked his finger and brought up the holo display on his desk. Immediately he called the head there.
“Khamir, I am glad you called. Things are getting dicey here, I think the rioters are coming for the Jade embassy and we are just the icing on the cake. Most of the students have managed to get out and go home but some of the travel links have been shut down and we have students here who can’t get out. The faculty have been discussing the possibility of you sending over a detachment to get us there” The head, Arthurs Bindsley was actually not a Unioner, but a Teliran who had studied in the Union and since returned to try and bring the excellent education he had received here for his own people. But now it seemed he would be targeted by the very people who he wished to help.
“I was checking up on your situation, how many of you are there? And what word from the Jade? Are they moving out soon and are they willing to provide you and the others security?” Khamir replied, he knew sending Calico to try retrieve the faculty and students would be a tough thing to do but not doing so could cost him a great deal more.
“46 of us are still here and we have the university transport, we can just about squeeze everyone in but we need escort. No word yet from the Jade consulate, I think their busy with their own problems now, but I can try again” The man was very afraid, but Khamir respected him for how he was handling himself.
“Do so, ill tell the Sergeant to get some boys together and come get you soon. Hold tight”
Capitolite Zone
The sound of glass smashing only made Kommadant Zeister angrier.
“Use tear gas! Those local bastards want us gone they can pay for it. What’s the sit rep of Onos Street?” The immaculate uniform of Zeister gave him away as a clear supporter of the old regime. Having grown up under Ferinaza Garren Zeister had been nobility until that spoilt bitch Inara had cleaned shop. At least he had found support and shelter here, helping the locals find an ideology which gave them purpose.
Now look how they repaid him and his men.
“We had to fall back sir; the crowd is too thick. We lost two men out there as well, dragged down and beaten to death. No doubt it was filmed too” His adjutant calmly pointed out as shouting and the occasional gunfire continued. The Capitol soldiers who had been stationed here had donned their uniform and riot gear along with proper weaponry and had formed a line between them and the rioters several streets away. However, the crowd had not been deterred and had charged, taking down two men before the one of the Freikorps had opened fire gunning down several Teliran civilians but causing the crowd to back off. Now they were only one street away from the building, a no man’s land standoff occurring with the thin line of olive green facing down the horde. Molotovs, rocks and other things were hurled at the Capitol soldiers who merely stood their ground.
“GO BACK TO YOUR HOMES. DO NOT ADVANCE ANY FURTHER. ACTION AGAINST US WILL RESULT IN DEADLY FORCE I REPEAT…”
The voice came through the loudspeaker constantly, drowning out the cries and shouts from outside. Zeister grimaced.
“Two loyal men gone down to a rabid pack of Inhumans. What’s the status on reinforcement?”
“We have received acknowledgement and we have help on the way, but it will take a long time for them to reach us let alone fight through to get to us sir. I suggest we tighten security and bring up the few vehicles we have, form a barricade, and get a sniper on the roof. Any antagonistic leader figure who comes forward calling for them to charge we shoot immediately”
“I like your style. Consider it done and see to it at once. Whats the word from the authorities?”
“Nothing so far, the usual stay put help is on the way, but from what we have seen from the roof and on the news it appears the police and law enforcement are pulling out of this zone” Zeister snorted in disgust.
“Typical. Aliens cant even police their own damn people. Carry out your plan Trefeld, lets get this done”
_Envoy Avenue_
The Carnaithian block on Envoy Avenue was busier than usual, contrasting the gravity of the situation - The main atrium of the four-story commercial building was under thorough surveillance from a dozen troopers and remote cameras alike as business owners and Carnaithian expats from the adjacent Shopping Stretch milled about and filled the building with buzzing discussion; concerns over security, complaints of damages already incurred, requests for information regarding flights to and from Natar... the reasons for visits among the crowd varied as much as their phenotypes. For as busy as it was, and the surrounding situation, there was no question as to why the director of the building and the ambassadorial staff alike were nowhere to be found at the front of the compound.
"You think they'll lash out here, Liz? Really?" Ambassador Alak Vitiri posited in the break room, overlooking the thin street between the Union and Carnaithian zones.
"Well, yeah, Al. They've gone and buzzed the Capitolite zone, why wouldn't they?" Asked the far more casual, if irritated, Lizaki Mere - building director and middleman between the businessmen and Alak. "Khamir wants to know if we can help extract a group from the university, they're getting close and students aren't really the best at defending themselves. I think sending out a squad wouldn't hurt, if you ask me."
Alak's tired visage looked back, his hand holding the dissapointingly-empty brewing pot from the counter opposite him from Lizaki. "You just told me they'd lash out here, why do we want our security off-station?"
"Because there's two royal families' children attending that university and believe me if they won't lobby for house Lodric to take your head if their kids get so much as a fleck of blood on their pompous coats. This compound has a panic room, an escape route to the Union building, more security, and defensive architecture. I. Think. We. Can. Spare. It."
Vitiri sighed as he rubbed his snout with his free hand; he didn't usually have to think about the union university, and now he was going to be sending imperial guard out into a foreign states' streets, with a foreign states' people. The act would definitely piss off the corporates two floors below, but he really didn't want to come out of this with a ruined career.
"Fine, send a squad out with one of the convoy cars. I'll call Khamir, we've got each others' backs."
Ingen Consulate
The Jade Consulate was not an important building. Dwarfed by some of the larger embassies over on Envoy Avenue, it was a small, two-storey pagoda-style building with an ornate eight-foot wall enclosing perhaps a single acre. A suite of rooms for the one consular officer, Jurou Yoshida, an office room for him and his two local administrative assistants during the day, a spacious reception/interview room, a kitchen, a security station and a basement garage for their vehicles and supplies. The short lawn in front of the consulate was graced with a little rock garden and pond, and a small arbor supported a spray of blossoms on the path to the front door.
Yoshida was still trying to wake up. He had been rudely awoken by news of the unrest, and was trying to make sense of the situation even as gunfire sounded in the distance. A few minutes later, his security chief buzzed him on his Holo to inform him that the Capitolites had already opened fire on a crowd and there were reported fatalities. The Union university dean, one Arthur Bindsley, had already called him asking for assistance and initially he had planned to decline, intent on staying put, but after seeing the footage that was starting to circulate the AncNet he had reconsidered...
Sergeant Takenaka was not happy. He had only four marines, a single squad, to protect the consulate, and even then he had been told that was a luxury given he only had to protect one diplomat, one chef and a couple of local pencil-pushers. He tramped out to the front wall, where a narrow walkway let First Marine Kato peep over and keep an eye on the street beyond. There was no sign of unrest yet, and the sight of the distant Union embassy over the rooftops was reassuring, but with only five spears to protect their little corner of the city Takenaka had a gut feeling the consulate was not long for this world.
Yoshida fretted. It was not yet dawn, but a conference call with President Monatt had been scheduled to start soon.
_
After agonising for a while he decided to bail on the call, sending apologies to the President's office before calling for his Sergeant.
The bulky man in his clattering armour appeared at his door and the frazzled diplomat glanced up. "Sergeant, get the Respite ready. I will be dismissing Kenneth and Mary. I am closing this Consulate until further notice and we will be enacting the appropriate protocols. Have the building sterilised."
Takenaka nodded in relief and turned, barking orders even before he had left the room. Two of his marines headed into the garage and began firing up the Respite LAV, a sturdy wheeled vehicle designed to carry five people in its armoured cab and four more in the flatbed at the rear. A 12.7mm railgun, operated remotely from inside the cab, was its only weaponry, although it also had smoke and chaff launchers.
Meanwhile, Yoshida and his chef, an amiable old man who everyone just knew as "Shefu", were engaging in shutdown protocol. A small furnace, built into the ground behind the consulate with a heavy steel hatch, was opened and datapads, documents and anything else sensitive was dumped inside. Shefu heaved the door shut and powered on the furnace, a muted roar sounding from beneath their feet.
Yoshida was upstairs, packing what little he could not bear to leave behind into a tote bag. His clothes and mundane goods would be left - he could buy more. A decorative kanji haiku, written for him by his wife, went into the tote, as did some datapads, his official jinbaori coat, a dagger and some other sundries. He clattered downstairs, checked on Shefu's progress, and then said a farewell to his two local assistants who were keen to run home. The rugged LAV was now parked just behind the gate and he climbed into the cab. In the bed Takenaka hefted his AA-42 as they rolled out, Yoshida already calling ahead to let Khamir and Bindsley know they would be stopping by the Union university and could travel together to Envoy Avenue.
High Imperium Legation
Gaivran slumped back against his chair, groaning. "Those idiots. Do we have any response from Lady Eroth, at least?"
His secretaries glanced at each other for a moment before one of them screwed up his courage. "Her directives are to hold the embassy district and support the other embassies within reasonable means while keeping civilian casualties to a minimum." Hesitating a minute, he continued, bracing himself for the outburst that would likely follow. "Additionally, she has stated that we are not cleared to deploy the two Legion maniples unless the embassy tower is threatened itself."
"WHAT?!"Bolting upright, the Emissary was near apoplectic with fury. "How the hell does she expect me to do anything without those maniples?"
Grimacing, the aide explained. "She denied deployment on the grounds that the Legions are seen as the official military of the Imperium, and to deploy them against civilian populations in anything but the most dire of situations could have rather extreme implications. Such as being seen to declare war against the ASN."
"War? You want a war, look outside the fucking window! Star bedamned." Grinding his teeth together, the Emissary composed himself, then nodded sharply. "Fine. What do we have to deploy?"
One of the other aides brightened at this. "I can answer that, sir. We currently have 20 levy soldiers holding various chokepoints across the district, with minimal armor support. We also have 50 soldiers of the Long Nine and accompanying gunships if you wanted to send aid to the other embassies."
Gaivran grunted, drumming his fingers on the table for a moment. "Hold 30 of the Niners back, but have the other 20 gear up and get them moving to the Union university. Send a preliminary notice of course. Wouldn't want them shooting at us when we're just trying to help. And get someone to prep the holo room for the conference. Let's get going, people!"
Royal Federation Legation
The Federation district was quiet save for some protests which weren't hurting anyone... for the moment. The AI assigned there on official diplomatic duty was Annalise, she was that areas direct contact to the Diplomatic Corps. She was well aware of what was going on in the city and how the violence might eventually be drawn towards the Federation District. A frightful consequence if her data centre underground were to be destroyed and the dozens of Federation citizens were killed, as such she began taking precautions such as bringing in police patrols from locally employed Federation police and having the embassy guard on standby. There was also a transport run on call if they should find the need to evacuate. All according to her algorithm.
"Annalise, i see your preparations are complete and i commend you on your efforts. However, you should make the effort to assist the other nations should the opportunity arise. Let them know that if they need it an evacuation shuttle will arrive in the next hour to take VIPs away to safety." The Diplomatic Corps said plainly to Annalise.
"Also have some volunteers go out into the streets with water and first aid kits to offer assistance to people. This is a good opportunity to get out there and make a good image of ourselves, if events unfold in an unpleasant manner withdraw back to the embassy and wait for evacuation."
"As you command Corps." Annalise replied respectfully. The whole interaction of course took place of a mere fraction of a second as there was no need for verbal communication.
Overview
By the time of the morning conference in the wee hours of the morning, the chaotic news of the distant troubles were not indicating improvements yet. The police were reportedly still making efforts to establish hardpoints and contain the swelling numbers and strength of the masses accumulating in the areas surrendered to the lawlessness. While they had made retreats, it atleast seemed like they were more than capable of containing the situation, for now at least. Pictures of faces bloated by truncheon bruises, bystanders being attacked by rioters and far more horrific images emanating from attacks by both revolutionaries and authorities were continuing to emanate from the zones. What was starting as a fringe group of radicals filling the streets was apparently becoming something more; it seemed like the entire city was emptying into the rioting zones.
News also arrived that, distinct from the wholly anarchic riots of the residential areas, more organised groups were also organising daylight demonstrations. The commercial block, the site of most of Kaban’s private sector highrises, the ASN square and Terefa rallying grounds had already become sites for intended peaceful protests which all promised to magnetise even larger turnouts for the revolutionary cause. Many of the organisers of these demonstrations, both violent and passive, had backgrounds in the Anti-Imperialist liberation movements for the recent Sasona secession war.
Daybreak came and still President Monatt’s video conference did not come. The delay, his staff reported, apparently came due to the ‘secondary concern’ the safety of the embassies represented to ‘the greater focus of organising an end to the turbulence’. Sure enough, an hour after the allotted time and now as the blood-red sky of dawn had bled across the city skyline, Monatt’s unmistakable face came through in his transmission to both the colonial and few unaligned representatives active in the city.
“Ambassadors, consuls and otherwise, good morning to you all.” The President grinned smoothly followed by a yawn.
No diplomatic leader could do their work in Sasona without knowing and understanding Monatt. Former Lord-Minister, now renamed Lord-President, was the plenipotentiary head of government for the Tesfeld Union State. By extension he was their collaborationist leader for thei unofficial Kalethian dominion over Tesfeld. A laudable realist and a career politician if ever there was one, Monatt solidified his position by heading the loyalists against the liberation war that only ended a few decades ago and had been conveniently elected by the lords, landowners and chiefs of the developing nation ever since. Now with visible signs of age, most notably his crow’s feet, the President charmfully began with such a confident demeanour it was hard to see him as out of control of things,
“I hope this finds you all well…” He looked down to his notes, “It has come to my attention that, during this time of staggered stability and productivity, some amongst the diplomatic community have taken concern to the future of their assets in Kaban.”
Looking up he chuckled briefly before explaining, “I wanted to take this conversational opportunity to- to- to emphasise that Kaban is still largely in a state of lawfulness. The police have assured me that their new Comprehensive Action Plan for containment and mitigation of the recent spread of the unrest can begin over the course of the next couple of days. With it, we intend to fully control where and when these dissident groups walk the streets and, hopefully down the line, we- we…we can…” He paused, visibly trying to look for the right word to use as his hands drifted about, “Uh- direct things into a more amiable course.”
With this the President paused, “I do hope to keep this short as I'm sure you understand that I'm a busy man, but I do believe that I have promised to answer any questions you might have for the Tesfeld government and on our Comprehensive Action Plan. But before that the thing I must emphasise most about this plan, is that we are bringing a halt to non-government city traffic on the city roads. This is a move we are conducting in accordance with our objectives to better the efficiency, deployability and effectiveness of our law enforcement units in controlling the spread of these incidents. We need the roads empty, and this cannot be done if we have independent groups and civilians all clogging the infrastructure attempting to conduct plans of their own” He gave a cheesy signature smile of a politician, “...Now, do we have any questions?”
Envoy Avenue (Union, Carnaith)
For the old AGA powers, the situation over the past hour had done little in the way of escalation. What were now effectively the night hours for the nocturnal Telirans had given the city a psychological respite, the streets were a little fuller with pedestrians as passers-by were taking the opportunity of sleeping hours to get outdoors. It was impossible not to question how many of those average joes strolling down the pathways had just finished a day out in one of the distant mobs further out in the city.
But even during this almost comforting return of normalcy some small groups were forming, holding placards, some laying murals and makeshift shrines some to mourn the death of Roma Efiki. Some came to shame the Carnaithan and Union governments for their association and recognition of the state they stood against. Others were here hoping to appeal to these states to promise their aid to their cause of separation from the Tesfeld Union State. All were clearly supported by the heart of the public as the odd passer-by would head to a local store and bring them some food or photograph the scenes; spreading awareness.
One particularly concerning event for today, arriving by midday, was an Ancnet message to the Carnaithan and Union Ambassadorial missions by a one Mr Davo Kalmine, a Human unioner married to a Carnaithan expatriate living in the city. Mr. Kalmine simply attached a poorly-taken image of the streeview outside his house. Through the blurred motion from the camera movement and the sheen of his house’s glass, one could only just make out the dozens of unknown figures outside. Kalmine’s message explained that he occupied an apartment in the residential outskirts and, while his wife was safely protected by corporate security at the Mavasa Bank Tower, he feared that the crowds forming were intending to break into his home. Kalmine finished by asking for advice from the embassies on what he should do.
“Chrysaor Castle” (Capitol)
The disorganisation of the rioters mixed with the excessive, bloody reaction of the Capitolites was enough to send the demonstrators into the distance for now. But they didn’t disappear. The crowds brewed and brooded from a distance. Sometimes throwing objects, othertimes pounding the ground in unison and chanting slurs and sayings.
The only reprieve came in the morning from the Teliran side as an ageing Berlun, in his clerical garb emerged through the masses and began crossing the distance between the fortified neighbourhood and the rioters. The goatlike clergyman began stopping at each of the lifeless bodies of fallen citizens upon the road. Kneeling as he quietly murmured prayers and covered the heads with ceremonial cloth. All held their breath to see how the defender’s would react.
Unlike the embassies, the Capitolites had not been dignified by any direct communication from the central government. Instead, they had simply received a police communique that, “If the Capitolite community in Kaban continues to utiilise illegal force during these times of instability, the Tesfeld Union State will be forced to direct forces towards the complete pacification and prosecution of the antagonizing neighbourhoods.” The only other activity the Capitolite’s were seeing for now were the overhead rumbles of helicopters which hawked above, always recording, always watching for what the unpredictable defenders might do next.
Jade Consulate (Ingen)
The evacuation procedures at the Jade building went unhindered by the locals. A few passers by stopped to watch, others to film. But noone had gathered preemptively. In honesty few had even considered the Jade diplomatic presence amid all of this. It was arguably one of the less notorious diplomatic missions in the city, certainly behind country’s like Orillia. But it hadn’t been forgotten. Even before the Jade had begun their evacuation procedures, a single officer had turned up at their door to assure them that the authorities would happily follow up on any incidents should naredowells attempt to vandalise or harass the consulate.
As daybreak came, the Imperial mission was met by the figure of well-dressed Teliran, clad in western business wear, still relaxed as ever despite the distant sections of the city destabilizing. Beside him stood a similarly well-dressed local, his shades and earpiece indicating him to be some kind of security. With a calm smile the first gentleman walked up to the consul and calmly offered a hand,
“Mr Yoshida? Closmari Hada. Chief Senior Executive Supervisor for Lower Echelon Subdivision Oversight of the Local Policy Management department for the ASN: Kaban directorate. We just wanted to stop by and invite you to come along with us to the ASN Unity Tower, it’s a helluva lot more focal for protection than your Consulate… If you excuse me saying so. We’re on our way there now as a matter of fact. We’ve got security, people and I doubt the rioters have anything against an organisation like the Associated States. The more the merrier, after all!” The Teliran chirped as he took a look at the Consulate’s armoured vehicle.
“...You’re not going anywhere in that thing are you?”
The Legation Quarters (Royal Fed, High Imperium)
The lack of activity on the South Bank gave to something of a detaching, comforting air for the legation quarters. Neighbourhoods so deeply rooted in foreign control, so far from the chaos, made the entire place feel like it was on an entirely different continent; free and untouchable from the issues far from the heart of the city. The outskirts apparently did not have such a luxury. Even as the odd police boat or two rumbled down the Tanais river, cutting through the shimmering glow of the water at sunrise, watching from the overlooks or buildings made it feel like it was all safely on a TV screen.
Even from the foreign-controlled legations, one could look out upon the streets of the South Bank, beyond the confines of the concessions, and observe the police officers who closely monitored any brewing groups of protesters. An officer was present on almost every street; all were keen to disperse and arrest any potential threats. The sights made it almost unbelievable to think that the situation across the river could be any worse. The occasional bumble of a distant gun being fired was more soothing than terrifying from this distant.
For them, atleast for now, the biggest problem didn’t come from real problems and threats. But the growing influx of locals and expatriates flooding ambassadorial lines and departments with inquiries about whether they should stay at home, ignore the new lockdowns, complaints about their cars being impounded for breaking lockdown, questions on government policy, paranoid reports of neighbours planning to kill them, one Imperium migrant over a call even suggested that the High Imperium ought to invade the entire planet. Few of these questions were important, many more were trivial if not outright enraging by how much they were keeping staff busy from proper planning.
As the morning turned to midday, it became very apparent that the South Bank authorities, so close to the centre of the capitol, were becoming concerned of how the Legations would respond. Indicated by the increasing presence of squad cars and law enforcement monitoring concession activity along the de-facto borders of the statelets in the city. One officer was even so concerned as to mistakenly call in the first of the Royal Federation triage centers, within RF territory, as a rendezvous for a potential breakout into the government-controlled sections of the city and resulted in a waste of both police manpower and time as six policecars quickly found their way to the site.
The RF aid itself was responded to well by the massing civil protesters within the. While some took the opportunity to point fingers and make accusations of collaborationism with the Tesfeld Government. Most were happy to accept the food and hydration for their picket fences, which quickly began to foster something of a redirected protest within Federation territory, not towards the Federation people, but more generally towards notions of Colonial domination over free nations. This did not deviate them from their stances on ending things like the legation quarters, but it did create a bridge.
Union University (Union)
The state of the University was a far cry from what the embassies were dealing with. Like the Capitolite District, the University was finding itself in the midst of the ongoing changeover between local authorities and the crowds of dissenters. Where once police lines had been pushed against the seas of people, now there wasn’t a single officer in sight. What’s even worse is that there had been no steady retreat. The lines had seemed to hold down the street for some time over night. But at some unknown point, almost like an explosion, the crowds had swarmed past the University. Now the streets outside campus walls were filled with the chants of the mobs, hooded figures and flying bricks.
There was no doubt the University buildings beyond the University proper had quickly been devastated. The clear sounds of nearby shattering class, clattering tables and security alarms ringing made clear of that. So far the main building, however, was not much better. Unprotected by any defensive embassy wall or elite security force, the crowds were allowed to quickly mass right up the buildings walls which were bathed in the hellish red light of morning.
For now, the anarchy was being limited by the lack of initiative and commitment by the anarchic rabble outside. But the smashing of bricks against the windows, matched by the sheer size of the building and shortage of people inside, made it almost traumatising for anyone inside. As long as the mob built up the will to do it, they could theoretically smash through some unwatched door or window in an unoccupied room and quickly spill in, and then the University would be left to the mercy of a mob’s euphoric frenzy. The situation was bleak.
JADE CONSULATE
Yoshida shook Hada's hand, years of diplomatic instinct preventing him from bowing in the Ingenious style. He nodded, glancing over towards the silhouette of the ASN Unity Tower to the south-east.
"Your offer is most appreciated, Mr Hada," he replied in Teliran, strongly accented but slow and clear, "but I have promised we will help to evacuate the Union University and escort the residents to the Union Embassy."
He gestured to the marines gathered beside the Respite, clad in the jade, white and gold of the 3rd Regiment responsible for embassy and consulate protection across the Jade Empire. The faceplates of their helmets were worked into snarling, ornate Ingenious dragons, whilst they were arrayed with what looked like medieval weapons of glittering crystal.
"Our marines are proficient in non-lethal crowd control and are well-equipped and trained, and nothing short of anti-armour will stop the Respite LAV from getting where it needs to go. To run and seek shelter whilst others are in jeopardy would be a stain on the Jade Empire's reputation."
Sergeant Takenaka spoke up, adding in the fast, staccato Ingenious tongue; "A true man would rather be the shattered jewel, ashamed to be the intact tile."
Union Embassy
“We are out, by god Khamir they torched the place, we can see the glow from here. The Jade were really nice to us and they are giving us an escort. We got the three buses out and ready to go and fit everyone on so we are safe now, how long do you think you can get to us?” The voice of Arthur Brindsley made Khamir audibly sigh in relief, they had all seen the visuals of the university campus as the rioters had broken in via the study gardens initially and swarmed across into the court yards and started to set fire to the buildings, ransacking everything they could and spraying slogans onto the walls and more. Khamir had been focused on the graffiti sprayed onto the front building after they had managed to get out.
‘Down with the colonials’
It seemed there was more trouble stirring than before.
“I am glad you managed to get out Arthur, tell the Jade we owe them one. Calico is on route along with some extra hands from the Carnaithian embassy, they should meet up with you shortly and we can get you all safe in no time” Khamir smiled, the head thanking him before putting the phone down. Khamir wiped the sweat off his brow, thankfully Alak had pulled some strings and helped, no doubt he would owe the Carnaithian ambassador a drink after this was all over. However, the situation regarding Mr. Kalmine and his family was bleak. Picking up a rather old-fashioned phone again Khamir rung ambassador Vitiri.
“Hey, Alak, this is Khamir… Given the situation for Mr. Kalmine I think its best we give a joint front. Any ideas on what to advise him?”
Meanwile in the staff call, as Monatts stuttering and bureaucratic blundering came over the collective call the Union Ambassador was nowhere to be seen, Khamir having been more focused on ensuring the successful extraction of the Union University over any political promises. Instead the Union presence came from Diplomatic Attaché Arcolo, a large Jorgal who stood in a neatly pressed suit of intricate design. He represented Khamir and the Union contingent and he already disliked Monatts promises before the man even finished speaking.
“We have groups moving to secure the evacuees from the University campus who are currently travelling to Envoy Avenue as well as additional security detachments working to escort them. I am sincerely hoping under this action plan that they will not be stopped at checkpoints and will be allowed free passage to ensure their security and timely arrival at our location. Given the damage and extent of unrest that our University and faculty have endured over the last day we would appreciate the expediency of your security forces in securing that area” The dull growl of the Jorgals voice thankfully covered Arcolos annoyance at the situation, and he hoped the Telirans would at least help get their people to safety.
Union University Convoy
Arthur slumped back into his seat as he put the phone down to Khamir, to know Calico and the Carnaithian security teams were on the way was a blessing, and the armoured LAV that now drove in front of them, painted dark green and bearing the mark of the Jade Empire was extremely reassuring. Even as they had scrambled to get the buses going and everyone on the Jade team had been there to help calm everyone down and direct the staff and students in an orderly fashion. They now went first, ensuring that the small convoy of four vehicles made their way safely back, but they were not out of the woods yet. The entire area was crawling with protestors and rioters, and Arthur looked back at the orange glow from the burning university.
So much work lost, so much hope for the future gone. He sighed again as his eyes drifted to the other two buses in the convoy and immediately his face turned to shock. There was only one bus behind his own.
“What? Where is the third bus!” Instantly panic swept through the staff and students as they crowded the windows to see that the third bus was indeed gone. Fumbling with the phone Arthur immediately called Dr. Ophenia who had been driving the third bus. As soon as she picked up he was already yelling.
“Ophenia where are you!”
“Just a couple streets back, the engine gave out. It was the payoff for not getting this thing reserviced in time. Ill get it started don’t worry, is Calico on the way?” Arthurs face was red with anger. It had been his choice to wait on servicing the third transport.
“He is, get it going quickly ill tell them where you are, and Ophenia please be careful”
Chrysoar Castle
The standoff outside the Capitol zone had been quiet for many hours, the Capitolite men who stood watch in their line equipped with riot gear dozed off standing up. The three vehicles the group had were brought up, two aging Themis APCs with no weapons and a Spartan LAV with a heavy machine gun. They had been placed at strong points, the men mostly using them to lay on or sleep in as they rotated in and out, they were tired however they didn’t have infinite manpower.
The appearance of the aging Berlun from among the crowds however spurred action. As he walked over to the bodies in the no mans land and performed his rituals and prayers the squad leaders of the Capitol men barked orders, men half asleep bolted upright and ran to take positions in case it was another attack by the locals. But as the old man went about his duties the Capitolites merely watched, some with interest, others with distain. Nobody fired or moved, the exhausted masses armed and ready eyeing the old priest with every movement.
Zeister meanwhile had been eating when the event had happened, angry to be disturbed the man walked out onto the street in his jackboots and marched over to near the front. Climbing up onto the Themis closest to the street, much to the worry of his two aids the man almost gleaming from his uniform surveyed the scene and the priest. Looking upwards he could see the helicopters overhead; they had been here since they had first opened fire on the crowd. Pathetic he thought, why not arm them and assist his people when they were under such vicious attack?
“Priest. It is not safe here, withdraw immediately once your… Rites are concluded.” He jumped down from the Themis, anger in his voice.
“You disturbed me for this!” He shouted at an aid, drawing the look of many of the troops standing in a line. Before the bald little man could reply Trefeld quickly came out of the main building.
“A message sir, from the Authorities.” He handed Zeister the printed letter. The commanders nose wrinkling in disgust as he tore it up and threw it over his shoulder.
“Direct forces to pacify and prosecute aye? Maybe if they did that in the first place we wouldn’t have had to shoot any of these ungrateful subhuman scum! Don’t grace them with a reply, my orders still stand”
_Envoy Avenue (Carnaith)_
Vitiri shakily sipped from his glass as he stood cross-armed in the third floor hallway, listening to the emboldened but still soft roar that was the strong civilian presence on the ground. Ahead of him, two Imperial Guard gendarmerie troopers stood in light armor overlooking the stairs. Brandishing compact yet full-auto PDWs, their kit represented a not-insignificant fraction of the embassies' aggression response gear. He lowered the glass, pressing the tea - just somewhat thicker than water - between his tongue and the roof of his mouth, letting the aroma permeate through his sinuses... almost immediately, the rapidly-escalating calming effect soothed his jitters.
The breaches in the police lines last night had the Carnaithian populace of the area especially concerned, and at least one reception booth had been occupied for three hours by a single business proprietor who had been agonizing over every detail on the Imperial Release Regarding Transgression Response Within the Atmosphere of Natar - already he was on the second diplomatic aide after the first one was approved a break. Alak's mind drifted to the message the embassy received this morning, and the priority contact that in turn forwarded said message to him directly, not a second too soon.
The Tri-tone ring of his phone rung in his pocket, disturbing the relative peace of the third floor. One of the guards turned, clutching the strike plate of his kit, but the reflective dark orange visor prevented any direct eye contact. Giving each other a nod, the guard turned back to the stairs while Alak quickly made his way into his office adjacent - collecting his cutting-edge, if monolithic, phone from his pocket and answering.
“Hey, Alak, this is Khamir… Given the situation for Mr. Kalmine I think its best we give a joint front. Any ideas on what to advise him?” came the voice from the other end before he had a chance to say hello. That said enough alone, leading directly into Vitiri sighing in response.
"He's alone, right? I don't expect a Unioner to be armed in any sense, but that may be in his best interest. If not a gun, a knife. If not a knife, something. Other than that, tell him to collect enough non-perishables to last him a couple of days, I've already got staff looking over his apartments' blueprints for a hiding place."
He stopped without adding any of his usual quips. The level of depressing weight on the response hung in Vitiri's throat like a slug of solaris. The silence in response from Khamir was almost enough to bring him to tears, and he quickly took another sip of his tea.
"I know you didn't attend the Presidents' meeting, but I know you're at least aware of how he started it. It's obvious the local authorities want nothing to do with the safety of our people... If we can't take care of them, they have to do it themselves." Honestly, he hadn't gone to it either out of a greater concern for his own people... the river between the inner and outer city felt as wide as the void between Natar and Erdae-Terione. At least he almost had a handle on his feelings. An automatic speakerphone, something he turned on only for high-priority events, activated on his desk piece.
"Ambassador," it started without his input, immediately audible as the lead for II Squad, the security detachment sent to the University, "One of the buses fell behind. We've decided to get who we have back to the compound before any locals intercept. We'll see you in less than an hour," the lead stated, only the very soft hum of the electric engine for their vehicle in the place of his voice for but a second before the signal cut. Vitiri choked.
"Oh- By my..." he placed his glass down before pinching the bridge of his snout. "Khamir, I'm sorry."
UNION UNIVERSITY CONVOY (Ingen)
Yoshida listened with concern to the radio chatter flying back and forth.
"Should we go back for the other bus?" he asked nervously.
Takenaka's voice came back over the comms. "No, sir. We should escort the primary convoy to safety first, you included. I can take my marines back out if the third bus is still in trouble at that point."
Takenaka cut the mic and shook his head gently. He peered at the buildings rolling by, the smooth rollerballs of the LAV making his seat surprisingly comfortable. He was not a fan of the AA-42 gunspear, something he reflected on as he automatically checked it over. A cylinder in the slot, and the trigger assembly and sights extended for optimal use as a ranged weapon. He hoped he would not have to use it, but he knew that meant he almost certainly would...
Royal Federation Legation
Federation Embassy
"The people seem to be having a good reaction to our official help Corp. They're keeping things civil this side of the river, for the moment" Analise said plainly
"Good, make sure at the first sign of violence we have our people pull back to the embassy. We don't need Federation casualties out of this." Core replied sternly
"I haven't seen that shuttle arrive yet, is there something wrong?" Analise queried
"There's been reports of man portable anti air in the region, all shuttles are on hold until we have the all clear from the authorities. If the situation deteriorates that badly, you'll have to put the embassy into lock down and wait until help arrives." Corps responded coldly
Outside the efforts of the Federation had not gone unnoticed with more and more Telirans coming and going from triage stations and hydration points. The workers from the embassy greeted everyone with a smile and were as friendly as possible even to the Telirans who would come around to accuse them of Colonial Domination and meddling. As far as they were concerned they were there to hand out water bottles and light snacks for the protesters taking to the streets. The local and legation police were liaising with each other to keep them posted on the whereabouts of these posts the Federation had set up on the south side of the river, they weren't brave enough to go to the north side where hell had broken lose. Smoke billowed up and the noise of fighting, gunshots and rioters was all that filled the air closer to the river.
Imperial Legation Quarter
At the President's question, Gaivran blink in disbelief for a moment. "So what you're saying is that you basically have no plan to stop the rioting or assist in protecting the embassies. I for one, feel very assured, I truly do." Snorting in disgust, he glanced over at the other representatives. "Regardless of the governmental incompetence on display, the Imperial embassy stands ready to provide any required assistance. Please do not hesitate to ask if any of you need anything."
Disconnecting abruptly, he looked at his aide. "Any updates on that Jade convoy?"
"They appear to be running into some issues, but nothing insurmountable."
"Huh. Keep the Niners ready to go if they need extraction, and see if you can make radio contact."
---
Several minutes later, a military tech cleared their throat and flicked their mike on. "Jade Imperial convoy, this is technician Mayeth with the High Imperium embassy, checking in. Please respond."
As the red glare of dawn gave way to clear blue skies and fresh air of morning, the city of Kaban was bathed in misty light.
Monatt’s face in his voice call seemed to deflate and weaken with an increasingly sagged, depressed look as he accounted for those powers who had chosen not to attend his meeting. As the call went on he was forced to sit through what can only be described as an onslaught of reprimands and lockdown breaches. The biggest blow was the exceptionally undiplomatic statement by the High Imperials, followed by their preemptive disconnection. In response Monatt awkwardly chuckled and tried to continue as normal. The President seemed to wait for several minutes after everyone had finished their inquiries before going off screen, he would return after a brief period of chatter, smiling to the camera.
“...I’ve just talked to my people here, Mr…” He squinted, clearly trying to read the Union representative’s name on the screen of the call, “...Arcolo.”
“...They tell me that they’ve been told by some representatives from the North-Bank governing council that they’ve been informed by the Chief of the Kaban Constabulary, that he’s been assured by Natsiana Borough Police that they’ll have things under control at the University in a day or so.” He paused, seemingly considering whether he ought to actually address the Jorgal’s inquiries.
“...I ...I recommend that your evacuees make it to the closest police station or government building, this lockdown is in effect for everyone. As such they may be stopped if found to be obstructing the mobility of law-enforcement as they do their job. If they are already at your embassy, then that is fine too...”
The politician looked down to scan his notes from the round of inquiries and comments, moving on to discuss a handful of comments by unaligned representatives. The most notable of which was Orillia, who’s diplomat: Galyriczk, inquired on the Capitol situation, referring to the holdout as a Colonialist ‘Oppression-Point’. Monatt’s reply was short and simple: “Those insurgents in that fort of theirs are on their own.”
With that the President wrapped up what would quite possibly be the only direct contact with the central authorities for sometime as they went about trying to focus on this crisis. But just before the call ended, as other diplomats were leaving, those who had turned up and remained long enough were left to see Monatt finally break his tired smile and walk off-camera. As he left, presumably moving to speak with his aides, one could hear his echoing voice grunt,
“If those ungrateful runts are so unwilling to work with us- Then so be it, let them fend for-” With that the feed ended.
“Chrysaor Castle” (Capitol)
Following the command from Zeister, the Berlun clergyman slowly rose from his knees and gazed across the open land to the Capitolite stronghold. With the window gently billowing his robes as it whistled down the lane, the priest gently smiled and commented,
“Perhaps it is not safe for me to remain here, but the same might be said for your people. Yet you stand tall to protect you from danger, come what may.”
Placing a cloth upon the final body of a fallen protester, the priest simple finished by stating,
“...As do we.” With that, the old holyman quietly turned and disappeared amongst the crowd that continued to watch with a hate to the killers that stood over the barricades of the Capitolite neighbourhood.
Amid the decline of hostilities, for the time being, at Chrysaor Castle, the number of rumbling choppers overhead quickly began to disappear until only a single government helicopter remained; ever watching. It was unclear as to why the private helicopters had all so quickly decided to stop their surveillance, atleast for now. However, in the following hours as things had settled, the Capitolites were once more met by commotion from beyond the barricades.
A cacophony of jeers, screaming and clattering of thrown objects could be heard from the mob down the road as three patrol cars came racing through from the eastwards road into the Castle. They didn’t seem to care about how many rioters they bashed out of the way as they sped down towards the fortified neighbourhood as a loudspeaker called out,
“Clear the way!” The officer boomed over a megaphone, “Superintendent Kmara demands to speak with Mister Zeister!”
The Chief of the Kaban Police was here.
Envoy Avenue (Union, Carnaith)
Vitiri’s apology to Khamir over the line was quickly cut off by a sudden and ear-piercing bang through the Carnaithan’s room. It had come from the nearest window. Now etched across it was the spider web-like pattern of a cracked impact. Several seconds later the window boomed out through the office again as another brick came bashing against the glass again. Both had failed to break through considering the distance and height.
Down below, from both from the Union and Carnaith embassies, one could see a small group of increasingly agitated protesters below. The previously disgruntled demonstrators were becoming increasingly worked up by the apparent lack of effect as each became more confident in their actions than the next. Soon enough the Sasonish Telirans were chucking anything from stones to bricks to eggs.
All the while more news from Kalmine was feeding through to the embassy staff. Cracks of his own windows from projectiles, pictures of bystanders brandishing guns. There was even a picture of the mob in the streets even burning a straw effigy of what looked like some kind of Human in golden armour. After that the only incoming updates were black videos of Kalmine in his house with the lights out, sometimes asking when help was coming; always asking for updates on the wellbeing of his wife.
Natse Lane, (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
Unfortunately for all involved, the first and second Union-University and their escorts were cut from their evacuation as they rolled down the main road towards safety: Natse Lane. Despite being now relatively far from the anarchy towards the outer city, the convoy found themselves confronted by a different obstacle.
Several police vehicles, including a van, alongside some wooden barricades and fluorescent cones lined the entire roadway before the group. A single officer stood infront of the blockade with his hand up.
“Halt!” He shouted with a firm look upon his face as other officers kept their pistols trained at the wheels of the unpermitted convoy.
Considering they were out of harm's way, the blockage wouldn’t have been more than a minor nuisance for them. But the bigger and more alarming issue came from the other direction and side of the line. Calico’s relief was being forced to a halt too. Evidently the Kaban authorities were very conscious and focused on this breach of their authority, and were keen to keep matters under their responsibility over rogue national diplomats.
Flocks of random bystanders watched on in confusion, some recording, as a handful of police officers came strolling towards both convoys with tired looks on their faces. They routinely waved for the drivers to begin filing out of their vehicles,
“Alright folks… Come on now, fun’s over.” One officer mumbled whilst gesturing. His uniform was visibly torn up from wherever he had been posted last night, an indication that the police department was having to keep their men in service for far longer than they ought to be considering the daylight hours. Occasionally an officer would look up to the looming apartment buildings skirting the roads as though they were looking out for something or someone.
Upper Natse-Lane, (University Bus 3)
Ophenia’s own issues were far more troubling than that of her peers in the other buses. As her vehicle had trundled to a halt, they found themselves far enough from the university to be out of the way of the immediate mob. In fact, there were very few people around to begin with.
However, quickly enough some of the few Teliran bystanders went about recording the sight; others went running off to parts unknown. But the effects were quickly visible. It seemed that, as every minute went by, more and more people began to appear. First just several, then a dozen, then dozens, within ten minutes it seemed like hundreds were beginning to mass and their hostility only grew with their numbers. Soon enough people were beginning to fling garbage towards the bus and any staff-member or student outside of it.
One balaclava-donning Teliran even ran up and began spray painting slogans along the side of the bus. Moments later another with a tire-iron came running forward to begin striking at the wheels as glass bottles came smashing against the windows right in front of the student's heads.
Things were starting to look bleak.
The High Imperium Legation Quarter
For the South Bank, things were almost idyllic now. Especially with sunrise, most of the protesters had disappeared to get some rest and sleep. Only a handful of pickets remained during these hours. But by midday something disconcerting was noticeable for the High Imperium legation. The South Bank police officers previously stationed around their quarter to ensure security and watch of the situation abruptly began to disappear and abandon their guard. Driving or walking to unknown places. The Royal Federation legation received no such abandonment, atleast for now.
This was followed by two black automobiles rolling up through the High Imperial central lane along the riverside. From it emerged the thin figure of a suited Teliran, his pale skin practically burning under the cold morning sunlight as he dabbed his face with a handkerchief and shifted his shades before strolling into the High Imperial embassy followed by several other suited figures.
With a stern, authoritative expression upon his face, the lanky Teliran and his entourage glided up to the receptionist. The smooth, emotionless tone of the figure gave off an aura of eerie power about him,
“...Good morning. I… Will be speaking to your ambassador, today. It is in regards to the insurrection across the city.”
With a calm straighten of his tie and a polite, yet offputting grin, the figure offered a cold handshake from across the helpdesk, “Adjutant Salierto of the Associated States Administrative Officer. I am certain that we will be able to ensure positive change for the people of Natar, and to bring about a conclusive end to the bloodshed and damage in this municipality… Your employer is of a similar mind to mine in this matter. It would be in our best interest to meet.” He asserted.
The Royal Federation Legation Quarter
One matter of interest did pop up for the Royalist Federation quarter towards the end of the morning however. Through the embassy doors waddled the robed figure of an aged Berlun priest. His senile, wrinkled face looking to the receptionist with a gentle smile as he muttered,
“Good morning… I would like to speak to your ambassador if you would allow it…? It regards the struggle across the city…”
With a brief bow the priest introduced himself, “Bishop Clement of the Tesfeld See…I believe we may be able to bring about positive change for the people of Kaban and to bring about a peaceful end to the bloodshed and damage of this city… And I believe that your Ambassador desires a solution as we do. I would very much like to meet him.” He requested.
Ingen
The Respite LAV rolled to a stop, its heavy 14mm coilgun aimed over the blockade's heads. The doors did not open, but rather there was a loud thud and clatter as Sergeant Takenaka sprang from the flatbed to land on the road. His white metal armour, lined with gold, glinted faintly and a faint sheen gave it an almost glassy surface. His mask was that of a snarling dragon, the eyes small and empty like the gaze of a bear. Over his shoulder he had what looked like a spear with a lime-green crystal blade, whilst at his side hung a straight-backed scabbard.
He strode swiftly towards the policeman, stopping a few inches closer than was polite or respectable. For a moment, he simply scanned his head left and right, taking in the tired-looking police and their handguns. When he spoke, his tone was somehow polite and contemptuous at once, his calm delivery contradicting the words he spoke. He spoke in heavily accented Common.
"Good morning. I am Sergeant Takenaka, Imperial Jade Navy. You lower your guns immediately. Good idea for you, please. By authority of the Jade Empire of Ingen I escort Jade and Union of World citizens to the embassy location."
Behind him two more marines climbed out of the LAV but did not approach. Inside the LAV, the ambassador snatched at the radio nervously.
"Yes, Technician Mayeth, this is Ambassador Yoshida, we are held up on uh....Natse Lane...there's a police barricade across the street both ways. My men are out there now trying to...uh....reason with them," he said, generously applying the term to what he was sure were brusque demands being issued by his marines.
Upper Natse-Lane
“Everyone in the bus! Come on quickly!” Ophenia shouted to a couple of the students who had attempted to get out and try calm the now escalating crowds down. One of them was Teliran himself, studying galactic history, he had been confident he could talk the crowd out of whatever was coming and he was backed up by one of the Union students who took regular part in the debate clubs. They had been confident, until one of them had been hit by a rock.
People screamed as one of the buses windows were smashed. Ophenia trying her best to calm everyone down and take charge of the situation. But It was no use, some were crying others were angry and wanted to fight the crowd, it was no use. She knew they needed to get out quickly, it was only a matter of time before someone set the bus on fire with all of them in it.
“Why wont they come save us!” One student shouted.
“We have help on the way!” Another responded.
“Alright everyone listen up!” She had made up her mind. It was an insane plan but it was better than being burned alive on a bus “Leave everything behind, take nothing with you. We will all form up together in a group, those of us few staff will make up the outside, students on the inside. We will then calmly walk to the nearest police barricade ok? Cover your heads and faces and if you get hit by something keep walking” None of them seemed convinced but did what she asked too scared to do otherwise. They formed up outside the bus door, garbage still being thrown as the staff, only four of them, took the brunt to protect the students.
“Please we just are trying to get home!” One of the students shouted as the small group slowly moved forward away from the bus.
Natse Lane Bus 1&2
Arthur stormed over to the police barricade where sergeant Takenaka was trying to make his plea, the Teliran faculty member having rage in his eyes.
“What the hell is going on! We have students that are unaccounted for and we are trying to get the remaining young people to the safety of the embassy! Why are you blocking the road and putting all of our safeties at risk? Give us an escort and get us to the embassy, and while you’re at it send some police forces to go look for our third bus! Last we heard they were under attack by rioters!” The man pointed and shouted, he was having none of what was going on. Meanwhile the students and other staff members had somewhat dismounted, coming over to see what was happening, some looked panicked as if desperate to get ever further from the university campus which had been overrun.
Envoy Avenue
Khamir was furious, the loud bang had been audible even from his office and had broken him out of his already present rage over the telling from Arcolo. The way that Monatt had brushed off virtually all input from the foreign polities and then even failed to fully close the line mid-sentence had made the Union ambassador fly almost into a fit of rage.
Now the breaking and bustling of the protestors outside coupled with the images coming from Kalmines updates sent him over the edge.
“Tell the bloody police to either round those protestors down there up or we will do it for them with our security forces!” He snapped, Arcolo nodded and disappeared out of the room leaving Khamir to look down onto the protestors below with a sneer. They had done much for this world and this was how many would repay them. He put the thought down however, taking a deep breath. He was angry and it was not a good combination.
He knew they had no way to get to Kalmine, but Khamir had instructed them to reassure him none the less, to tell him his wife was fine and that they were doing everything they could to try and get some contingent out to him. Khamir made it very important that they inform him that it was the local government who were making such matters difficult for them. The lockdown of all travel had made him curse loudly from his office. The updates from Arthur and Calico were soul crushing. Any hope of rescuing Bus 3 would either be left to the local police which Khamir trusted about the same as Capitols Hydra Guard or Calico and the Carnaithians who would have to cause some political incident.
It was a rock and a hard place.
Chrysoar Castle
Zeister had merely grumbled to himself as the clergymen walked away.
“We will protect ourselves no matter the cost”
Still with the now declined activity they had implemented rotas, for the men to stand watch and also relax and rest. Most had been going for a day now at least some longer and the men needed sleep. Zeister had not rested himself, trying but only managing to get shattered rest he had since stood to attention looking over the constant updates handed out by Trefeld.
Still it was the sudden commotion outside that had soldiers that were resting, eating and relaxing scrambling back to the barricades. Capitolites rushed to grab weapons or riot gear, not even getting fully dressed as they barged out into the open to plug the holes in the line and be ready for whatever the crowd would throw at them. However it was even more surprising that what was coming was the police.
Zeister once again clambered up onto the top of the Themis APC. His uniform still immaculate thanks to him having taken his time to neatly clean it despite having little rest. Trefeld stood behind the lines as the cars raced in through the crowd, the protestors being hit out of the way making Zeister visibly smile. It was about time they had representation here.
“Took them long enough eh?” Zeister said aloud, the Capitol line murmuring with agreement and subtle laughter.
As the vehicles pulled up Zeister, having still kept his high ground position on top of the APC called out.
“Welcome Superintendent Kmara. Fine day for peacekeeping wouldn’t you say?”
Carnaith
The impact against the window was startling not because of the hostilities - that was being mildly braced for due to the surrounding situation regardless - but because of the outside pane of the bulletproff glass cracking the way it did. Carnaithian embassies outside of domestic territory or especially close nations, such as the union, were structurally strong by default due to prior attacks on foreign delegations in response to the Empire's... assertive tactics in diplomacy in most cases. While Natar before this point had been seen as a stable location, and the embassy on Envoy avenue hadn't been given an exceptionally strong security detail, the architecture used when building the location was nevertheless retained. Alak poked his head down the hall once more, and the guard he had met eyes with before was already walking down the stairs to the lobby in order to assist in front-facing security matters; Vitiri grimaced.
"Liz! Get a call out, get the staff to finish prepping panic spaces. Recall as many citizens as you can, we're locking up early. I'm heading across to talk to Khamir in person," Vitiri shouted across the hall as he motioned to retrieve a secure backup from his computer.
"Already on it, Al," Mere responded much more calmly.
Alak quickly walked down the hall, taking a right where the troopers had been, and looking across the short skybridge to the Union building and the small security checkpoint on the other side. The windows here were being pelted just the same, and he could hear shouting and curses from below where many of the Carnaithians in the area were already gathered - They were being guided to the large meeting rooms and kitchen that were usually kept for state visits, but made just fine for emergency housing. He collected himself and briskly walked across, even as stone after brick after egg after trash impacted just a meter from his head. At least the tea was making more of an effect now.
The Carnaithian convoy element returning with the Jade LAV wasn't nearly as militarized, but the armored executive transport was designed with much the same considerations as the embassy building itself. It held no hidden armament, but its protective measures were extensive - as protected as one could be without looking too dissimilar from a legitimate civilian vehicle.
"I wish we brought the Pride," the disenchanted driver said while the passengers in the back spoke in hushed whispers. The interior was cramped, especially when carrying maximum capacity plus four troopers, but Lyk was glad they had this many.
"With the Pride we'd be leaving people behind - more than we already are," The security lead responded from the front passenger seat, using the vehicle's embedded cameras to examine the scene. Something didn't sit well - He linked his body and helmet cameras to the vehicle's computer. "I'll get out, don't let anyone else leave the vehicle," Lyk quickly re-directed, meeting the exasperated response of the driver as he, too, walked along the right side of the convoy up to where Takenaka was, though... a few steps behind. He, like the guards at the embassy proper, was armed with a compact PDW, though he carried extra ammo due to the expeditionary nature of this particular action.
"I'm inclined to agree with the Sergeant here, there's no need for hostility," He began. "Lieutenant Padov Lyk, Carnaithian Ambassadorial Guard. What is the purpose in stopping us?"
Royal Federation
The manner of which the bishop came to the embassy and his inquiry granted him immediate access to see Analise. He was escorted politely into a room with a large conference table and he was supplied with some light snacks and water while Analise materialsed her hologram sitting upright in the chair across from him.
"I'm Analise of the Royal Federation, I've heard about your proposition and i'm curious to hear more about it." She said smiling politely to the Berlun.
High Imperium
There was a brief pause from the Imperial technician before she responded. "Understood. Please know that support is on standby should you require it."
---
As the police officers deserted their posts, Gaivran issued orders for the levy units to hand to fill the gap, but could only shake his head as he viewed the reports.
Every envoy and diplomat was trained for sieges, but most of the one who were dispatched to locations that looked like that might be an issue had more military support. Of course he didn't have that support, because he hadn't been expected to need it! Not on Natar, of all places!
Cursing under his breath, a soft ping made him look at another screen that displayed a strange Teliran in the lobby. A chirp from his earpiece, and the receptionist was informing him that an "Adjutant Salierto" was asking to see him.
Hmph. Well this was interesting. He might as well let the man up. Responding to the receptionist to inform her of that, he watched the slim alien nod to the woman at the desk, then go towards the elevators...
Natse-Lane (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
The Teliran police officer didn’t seem to shift at all from the approach of the imposing figure of Sergeant Tanaka. Looking up to the Jade soldier with droopy eyes, it seemed like the officer hadn’t slept in days, responding to Tanaka the officer mumbled,
“...Good morning… Yada-yada…” He broke his speech with an exhausted yawn before looking down to his clipboard, the officers seemed to lower their guns on their own volition as the situation calmed. Shaking his head, the depleted officer replied without even looking up from his clipboard, “...No… No… Your vehicles are impounded…”
Shaking his head, the officer looked up to the Sergeant and tried to speak as clearly as possible, presuming the broken English to be a sign of a lack of fluency. He proceeded to pronounce each individual word as clearly as possible, “You. Break. Lockdown. Your. Truck. Must. Be-” He was then interrupted as Padov entered the scene,
“Yes, yes- I was just telling… Just telling this guy here that-”
The officer’s explanation was swiftly broken by the rapidly approaching footsteps of Arthur to the frey. The policeman seemed to awaken a little by the urgent shouting of Arthur as he turned and calmly raised a hand to gesture for the University administrator to calm down,
“Sir… We are aware of the troubles in the city… We are doing everything we can to keep things in order… Having foreign military vehicles and unpermitted convoys of students without police escorts does not help the situation…”
Wincing, the officer raised his free hand to rub the bridge of his nose. His attention was provoked once more, causing his eyes to open, from the commotion being caused as police officers tried to wrangle the students and return them to the buses.
“...Look sir, I don’t make my orders… I follow them… I’ve been told to stop this convoy by Superintendent Kmara himself… My job is to take these vehicles to the precinct…” Giving a tired groan, the officer massaged his temple, indicating a headache as he muttered,
“...Look, I can get a chopper and a van sent to this last bus of yours, but I’ve got to impound these vehicles… That’s all I can offer you. If you want you can make it to the embassy on foot, I didn’t receive anything telling me I have to arrest you guys... ”
Upper Natse-Lane (University Bus 3)
The emergence of the party of university staff and students was met by an uproar of cheers from the masses. Many celebrated what they saw as some sort of victory as many more quickly rushed forth to swarm the bus; quickly covering it in graffiti art as others began smashing its windows. The party could not be the cacophony of shouting from the rioters and the wailing of the bus’ break-in alarm as it was vandalized.
While most focused on the defenceless and inanimate bus, others followed the group. Keeping a distance as they trailed behind the group, the students and teachers were assaulted with heckles and taunts as cans came hailing down upon them. It was a long walk down this very open highway, and what looked like crowds of rioters lay ahead as well. The swarming rioters would certainly only get more violent and confident in their attacks if they continued out here. If they kept to this path, there was scarcely a chance of fending for themselves, but they could far easily be seen by a rescue team.
There were, on the other hand, alleyways to either side, nestled among the cliff-faces that were the apartment buildings that skirted the lane. These winding, dark routes among the concrete blocks would be easy to escape their pursuers in. But there was no guarantee of their safety there; even less of a guarantee that any rescue party would locate them within the city's infrastructural undergrowth. If they took the alleyways, their chances of helping themselves would be higher, but they would surely be on their own.
__
Chrysaor Castle (Capitol)
From the squad car emerged the looming figure of Superintendent Kmara. Sometimes referred to as Commissioner Kmara, the portly Teliran proudly clasped onto his ceremonial baton and adjusted his sharply-pressed uniform. With a beaming smile, the Superintendent quickly rushed forth to Zeister as he boomed, "If only my forces were capable enough to do so!” He chuckled.
Commissioner Kmara was no stranger to the Capitolites, though he had rarely met with them face to face. His willingness to take money and deals with those higher up the exile chain-of-command, such as Raxis himself, was the very reason the Capitolite community in Kaban had what they had. It was the reason why, during the Sasona War that ended only several years ago, the government had never seized military vehicles and munitions from the Capitolite exiles to fuel their own war effort. It was also the reason why crime reports surrounding the Capitolite neighbourhood were scarcely investigated seriously.
Taking one of Zeister’s hands to firmly shake, even if Zeister had offered neither, the Teliran’s grin faded as they came close.
“Things are not good Mister Zeister, not good at all…” He paused, “...Perhaps we may discuss this somewhere more private?”
The Teliran continued as he began to stride through the Capitolite compound, seemingly being able to speak with his lips barely moving as he held a smile for any onlookers. He looked at those he passed as if he were an officer inspecting his own troops.
“Entire provinces are going dark throughout the city, squad cars are failing to report in, and my riot police lines are breaking.” He hissed through his public smile; waving to a Capitolite family as he passed, “We have reports of gunfights, separatist cells infiltrating the riots, even a councilman being killed in his house…”
The Superintendent came to a halt as he entered the enclosed front porch of a nearby house. His smile disappeared as quickly as turned around,
“Sasona is in an open revolution, and there is no hope left. Entire police units are no longer listening to my commands. Most are going rogue to help their rebellious comrades, the corrupt ones are too self-serving to do anything but control the South Bank, and those remaining are too exhausted and overworked. We’ve already lost.”
“All we can do now is save ourselves before we’re thrown to the masses.” Kmara crossed his arms, “The Comprehensive Reaction Plan the government has been preparing is not a crackdown operation, it’s a general withdrawal, what remains of our law enforcement is fleeing to the South Bank to hold the government center and hold on for what time we can until relief arrives.”
Kmara looked at Zeister, a brow raised, “I have come here to bring you with me. You have no business here Kommandant, dying among the common rabble; torn apart by the savage maniacs out there. Come with me, join me, and we shall make it out of this insanity alive.” The Superintendent restored his smirk once more.
__
The High Imperium Legation Quarter
Minutes later, Salierto emerged from the doorway of Gaivran’s office. The Adjutant was no longer bearing any positive expression, but instead a deadpan. Stepping forth towards the ambassador’s desk, the Teliran gave a brief bow before shuffling the files under his arm.
“Mister Ambassador… I am Adjutant Salierto of the ASAO. This is all you need to know of me.”
The man gave little time for the ambassador to dwell on his identity as Salierto quickly followed by adding, “But who I am is of much less concern to you than what I am working toward.” The Teliran cleared his throat,
“For decades now, the Tesfeld Union State, and its protector: The Kalethian Republic, have struggled with consistent separatism from the ethnic Sasonish people of this region. You know this much, yes?”
“Well, I am tasked with ensuring that this separatist uprising at present is brought to a swift and effective conclusion along the outlined wishes of my supervisor. I believe the High Imperium, in particular your legation here, is similarly concerned with bringing back a swift and decisive strike to the rebel opposition groups that exist within this city.”
The Adjutant sat down at a chair before Gaivran and passed a file to him. Inside of it displayed a brief overview of separatist activities within the Sasona region, along with more relevant information about the recent escalation of violence by the rioters in Kaban.
“Breaking them here will break their spirit or perception of hope. They were nearly broken before a certain Roma Efiki roused them with her speech on Sasonish Independence before becoming their martyr. What we are seeing here is their last gasp at rebellion. Crush this, and the violence will melt away.”
Placing his fingers together to form a pyramid as he reclined into his seat, Salierto concluded, “Aiding the ASN in bringing about the destruction of this protest will greatly bolster our connections… And more immediately, it is in your best interest to aid in swiftly ending the threat to your legation. Establish checkpoints in your legation, coordinate defensive preparations with your fellow embassies; prepare for war.”
“...Might I also add…” Salierto muttered as he took the file back and returned it to his collection, “...That the cooperation of the High Imperium is of utmost importance… We have good reason to believe that your... Francophone neighbours next door… Have been actively strengthening the spirit and optimism of these rioters, their effects must be counterbalanced by the initiative of your own legation if our interests are to prevail.”
“If the separatist will is to be broken, and Natar is to be protected, you must give your neighbours a bloody nose. Convince them to back off somehow… Send agents to disrupt their community outreaches, attempt to seize a street or two for your legation amidst this chaos… Anything. Just keep them busy or knock them out of the equation.”
Royal Federation Legation Quarter
The Priest waddled into the conference room with a rather senile old look to Analise. After a moment of squinting, the Berlun chuckled and admitted, “My eyes aren’t what they used to I'm afraid… I wasn’t sure if you were the dignitary or the help!”
Though the cleric waddled over to the conference table, he did not sit, he instead preferred to lean against his staff. “Yes…” He mumbled to himself, “...I come to you seeking both the wisdom of your Federation… And your help.”
His hands shaking a little as he withdrew a small notepad from his pocket, the old man offered it to the AI before rambling, “For five years I have worked with the Sasona people… They are not bad people… They have just been abused… Downtrodden and occupied by a self-serving Teliran nation-state called Kalethia… Every chance at freedom or democracy these people have pursued, they have been beaten down by the polished boots of some gluttonous hedonists on the other side of the planet…”
The priest sighed, “...Your recent work to, at the very least, alleviate the suffering in this city has done much to help draw the Sasonish people towards their real enemy. Their true foes are not foreigners and aliens, this is exactly what their true enemy has been wanting them to think. Their real enemies are those corrupt nation-states across this planet that occupy the Sasonish, and use division to control their hold and exploitation.”
Inhaling, the Berlun finalised with a request, “You have already done more in service to the Sasonish people than God has asked of you… But I plead that you assist us further… Keep the protests on the right track by showing that there are nations beyond Natar that care!” Pausing, the bishop added, “There is one more matter…”
“...The High Imperials do not share a similar view of reconciliation with natives… They have displaced billions in the galaxy… And recent behaviour during this riot has shown little has changed in their attitudes here. If the violence, bloodshed and threat of this riot towards your fellow ambassador’s is to be alleviated, you must detain the High Imperium from making the situation any worse... Have the other embassies cut cooperation with them... Attempt to disarm some of their police units… Anything of such sort will contain them from deteriorating relations with the rebellion.”
With a final smile, Clement muttered, “The established government of this city cares little for your embassies… They have left you all to self-defence… And while the opportunists and extremists among the uprisers will still no doubt try to assault the embassies, I am determined to guide the core movement towards the true foes; not you. But for this I need your aid.”
High Imperium
As the Adjutant spoke, Gaivran's expression deepened into a thunderous scowl. Something didn't seem right. Here was Salierto, speaking of the Federation supporting the rebels, and attempting to convince him to strike out against the Federation legation as a means of crushing and demoralizing the rioters. But people like Salierto didn't just show up from nowhere.
No, they had masters who sent them out. Unfortunately, the identity of the Adjutant's superior was a mystery for the moment. However, Gaivran felt fairly confident that he knew at least part of the motivation in sending him here. After all, if the Federation and Imperial legations were busy fighting, than the rioting would go unchecked. To what end, he didn't know, but it still spoke volumes about the envoy they'd sent him as poisoned bait. Time to send this particular lackey packing, then.
Leaning forward, he folded his hands on his desk. "Perhaps it has escaped your notice, sir, but I do not answer to you and I do not answer to your government. I am here to represent the Imperium's interests in the region and to serve as mediator between our two nations if needed. I am not here to intervene in your conflict, nor am I here to assault my fellow ambassadors. That said, I would consider" Here the ambassador stressed the word heavily, "providing aid to the Tesfeld Union if it was requested."
He stood and tapped a button on the desk to summon security to escort the man out. "You will be escorted out. Please offer my regrets." Turning away as the guards came in and led Salierto out, he also issued an all-points alert within the quarter. It would be foolish to think that there would be no retaliation for his dismissal of the Adjutant. Although something smelled off, to be honest.
Something like the Adjutant had just attempted, with setting the Imperial and Federation delegations against each other seemed...too hamfisted. It reeked of brute force manipulation in a way the Telirans weren't known for. Not to mention if there was somebody at his door, it only stood to reason that there was someone else who had been sent to the Federation. Best be prepared for if the ambassador over there decided to take leave of his senses.
Natse-Lane (Ingen)
Takenaka was incredulous, though his helmet did not show it. Impound our vehicles? Are they mad?
He shook his head. The city was falling apart and this flatfoot had decided now was the time to boot a Respite LAV of the Jade Marine Corps?
Takenaka turned and yelled at Arthur at the students. "Get back on the buses! We are leaving now!"
Then he spoke to Yoshida over comms, his helmet muffling his speech.
"Sir, they are demanding to impound our vehicles. They say we broke lockdown."
"What? That's ridiculous. We have diplomatic immunity! Do they want us to walk to safety?"
"Yes sir."
"...I was joking, are you serious?"
"Yes sir. I intend to proceed through their barricade."
"Wait, what do you mean **through?!"
Takenaka cut off the call and turned back to the police officer.
"So sorry, there has been a misunderstanding. We have diplomatic immunity. We will proceed to the Union Avenue, thank you have a nice day."
As he did so, the Respite's engine began to rumble ominously. It had been idling, not completely shut off, but now First Marine Kato revved it meaningfully. The vehicle was huge, nearly two metres tall, with durable maglev rollers and tough armour plating. Designed for war zones, it looked decidedly out of place parked on Natse-Lane Avenue.
Upper Natse-Lane (Union)
The sight of the bus being smashed and grafitied and the Union university symbol being smashed in on the side made the students angry, some were crying as they made their way off the bus but it was clear that leaving it despite the sudden pelting by rubbish and rocks was a good idea. No doubt it would not be long until someone set it on fire, better to brave the outside than die in flames hemmed in by rioters.
“Where do we go!” One of the students shouted.
“Look in there!” Another pointed to the alley ways “We can hide in there and be safe!”
“We won’t be found if we run into a warren of alleys” Ophenia shouted in return over the jabs and jeers of those around them, the staff continuing to try shield the students as much as possible. She looked up onto the highway at the crowds assembling but also at the sky and the possibility of rescue. She made a split-second decision.
“We continue on the highway down to the embassy, keep close to us and do nothing to antagonise. If things get violent, I want you all to run. If any of you spot any sort of aircraft or surveillance drone, we all shout and wave our hands, we need to be found so we can be lifted out of here!” Her choice garnered mixed reactions from the students and even staff, but they didn’t have time to stand and debate as the crowds continued to harass them forward.
Envoy Avenue: Union Embassy
Khamir was visibly pacing in his office as Alak briskly entered the room. The Union ambassador looked ragged with stress, staring out the window as he paced towards the shouting protestors below, he was turning a small intricate ball in his hand before he glanced over and saw Alak enter, his entire demeanour changing as he stopped pacing, put down the ball and walked over to him.
“Alak good thank creation you’re here. Shit keeps getting worse by the minute” As if on que another set of fireworks were set off just outside the grounds creating a large boom and several smaller crackles “Our fucking security units have been stopped by Teliran roadblocks and now I am being told by some snobby local authority receptionist that the vehicles are being impounded. I have no word on the state of Bus 3 and Kalmine is constantly calling and worried about the safety of his situation. And on top of that these fucks won’t shut up” He gestured outside. He sighed before offering Alak a seat realising he had rather unceremoniously jumped at the ambassador with the situation without even offering a sit down.
“I used to be a XO in the Navy Core for creations sake, had my career all planned out. Volkus offered me this position and told me all the perks of such a transfer, I believed him and dammit it did come with a lot of perks, working here has done me and this place good but now I am dropped in this shit and it all seems worthless” He walked over to his desk and slumped into his chair.
“Please say you are here with some good news, otherwise death by aggressive table slamming seems a good way out right about now” He forced a smile.
Natse-Lane Buses 1&2 (Union)
“Doesn’t help the situation? By creation man have you not seen what happened to the university? We got out of there when they torched the place, what the fuck where we supposed to do stay put and wait to burn to death? Get a chopper and a van down there now irregardless or you will have dead students and staff on our hands!” Arthur continued to yell pointing to the smoke rising from the direction of the University site. Arthur turned to Takenaka and Padov, talking much more quietly after the man’s dismissal of the police officer.
“Quite right as a statement. Perhaps we should go anyway. There are young lives at stake and these young people too need to still get to safety” He gestured to the buses still waiting with their engines running, students and staff looking through windows or standing outside waiting to hear what was happening.
Chrysoar Castle (Capitol)
Zeister smiled at the superintendent and eagerly shook his hand gesturing for him to follow through the Capitol lines and back towards the building they had owned.
“Perhaps your forces need some training from us eh? Things definitely do not look so good my friend, judging from the crowds staring down me and my men” He commented as they walked through the line of Capitol soldiers, many staring awkwardly as several stepped forward to help protect Kmaras car and convoy which had parked up. Several families from windows returned the wave as they walked.
The comments by the Superintendent didn’t illicit a response from Zeister as they walked until they finally stopped. The Capitol Kommodant turning to the Teliran with his uniform still immaculate, his face was one of hard lines and experience and he had been no stranger to war, foreign and domestic given his close ties with the Garrenists and then the Inarists.
“So, they intend to runaway, do they?” He said aloud, looking from Kmaras face out across the city.
“It doesn’t surprise me. Not in the slightest, this was never some spontaneous event it was clearly organised by some behind the scenes, no doubt numerous movements plotting together with their disgusting ideas trying to think they can make a difference. You ask me to withdraw with you to the South Bank, however can you guarantee that the families here and my men would also be given safe passage? I have no intention of dying here to scum, but I would not wish those under my care to suffer the same fate, even if they were to die with honour taking as many of the bastards down with them as possible” He smiled.
“Besides, our contingent are a powerful anti-crowd control, they could be a serious asset for you and your men that you have under your control still. Who knows, with us behind you perhaps you can push up that position a bit further hmm? Nobody will question any ‘favours’ when your rescuing them with well equipped soldiers at your back”
Carnaith
Vitiri considered Khamir a friend; in normal circumstances he could bear it to hide emotion and concern behind a stone face, but this was far from a normal situation and he wasn't about to lie to the man. As such, his response to the request for good news was to stop dead in his tracks, rasping his fingers along their opposing knuckles, and stare at the sphere that now rested on his peer's desk.
"I hadn't heard about the roadblock, honest. That must have been called in as I walked over... Evidently, the Jade contingent brought an IFV, so I'd think our hosts insane if they thought to try more extreme efforts to halt the convoy..." Alak more clearly responded as he walked over to the offered seat, moving to sit down. "I actually am coming here because I think it's about time to enact critical measures. I've already got Lizaki recalling all Imperial expats so we can lock up the embassy, and I'm certain a lot of them are dragging their own supplies here with them, but we both know the beginning step is to call home." He paused, making eye contact with the Unioner as his already-meek smile faded.
"The actions taken by the Monatt administration thus far have both been a disservice to the people of the region, as well as an outright betrayal of trust normally afforded by even offering a position of embassy, much less handing over the plots themselves. I recommend taking our own measures to distribute information regarding the situation and getting an outside intervention in order."
He felt bad for Khamir, he really did. He, himself, had friends in the Void Arms who wholly considered re-assignment to a diplomatic position to be a notice of demotion rather than respect. It almost seemed as if they were right; even more responsibility and none of the authority.
Padov had begun to jog back to the limo the moment Takenaka had made the disengaging statement, quickly opening the door and making his way inside, immediately turning to his subvocal communications kit.
"Maintain weapons standby guys. I think our friends are betting on a breakthrough," He said to the crew of the vehicle - its electric engine, as opposed to a reactor due to safety concerns, was quiet even when active, but was more than powerful enough for its claim to its status as an executive transport. "Wait, we're gonna be shooting?" One of the rookies knee-jerked in response, and out loud, quickly panicking the passengers, enticing a "Great sell, no-hands," from his partner in the back of the vehicle and a belittling stare from the Lieutenant as he turned to calm the now-panicking transportees.
"If that beast goes for the breakthrough, wait for the the buses to go through and stay glued to the last one's ass - I don't want any space for them to deploy spike strips and I don't want to get stuck here," Lyk quickly interjected to tell the driver.
Natse-Lane (University Buses 1 & 2, Jade Empire, Carnaithan relief mission)
“No, sir. These need to come-” The Police officer cut himself off, sighing in frustration at the futility of his task as he watched the Ingenious forces return to their vehicle. The Teliran offices that stood by their striped barricades and squad cars gradually came walking to the sides; watching as the convoy quite literally smashed its way through their vehicles.
None of the officers even said anything or did anything as they watched the group bash through their blockade. The silence surrounding the convoy was rather eerie as every officerwatched the vehicle pass by. There was no shouting, no deployment of counters to the convoy, nor any gunshots. In the eyes of each officer, there was no look of energy, hope or willpower; they simply couldn’t be bothered with handling another mob or untouchable foreigner amidst the chaos anymore. So the Telirans simply stood by the wayside as their blockade, along with their resources, were smashed through; leaving the party to continue their journey onwards back onwards to the ambassadorial avenue.
Chrysaor Castle (Capitol)
Kmara was quick to nod in agreement to Zeister’s hypothesis of underlying manipulations towards the causation of the uprising. He promptly added on by affirming,
“I think the same. No doubt some foreign power like the Union has been stirring this up, we just crushed the separatist war effort several years ago as I'm sure you recall… Considering the role of some of your countrymen in providing the mercenary work which has so recently come to light. If it weren’t for that two-faced bitch, Roma Efiki, though, none of this blood would be split.” The Superintendent grimaced. The mention of the Kommondant’s men quickly promoted Kmara to shake his head and look straight into Zeister’s eyes.
“I only have a place for one in my car. You can take who wishes in your own vehicles, but you must charge the rest of your people to fight on until the psychopaths have been pacified on the streets.” With that, the Teliran placed a hand onto the officer’s shoulder.
“And for that we need to consolidate in the South, strengthen our position, and whip what few men I can prepare true action to deal with the true enemies of the people. Monatt is a buffoon; more concerned about conspiracies claiming the Kalethians organising this very uprising against their oversight.”
Kmara proceeded to draw his pistol from his holster, cocking it and keeping it to his side as he trailed once more from the house and back towards his sleek, black staff car. “I’m no believer in crackpot theories, Zeister, but I do believe in keeping a bunch of thugs and thieves in their place.” The Superintendent came to halt at his vehicle.
“Come with me Zeister to the Southbank. If either of us stay here, we’ll be butchered like animals. This is your ticket out of here; you shall not get this opportunity again.”
High Imperium Legation Quarter
Adjutant Salierto was quick to follow up on Gaivran’s response. His face remain unaltered, kept in a perpetual, distant stare upon the ambassador as the Teliran calmly opened his mouth; pausing before noting,
“Your ambassadorial legations upon this planet extend beyond just Kaban, Mister Ambassador. Your intransigence towards aiding the ASN and the Tesfeld Union State in handling this disorder will not go unnoticed by the Stadtholder. This will impact any willingness to support the High Imperium in its own times of need in future.”
With that, the bureaucrat looked to the two guards before making his own way towards the door. Before leaving, Salierto promptly stopped and added, “Oh.” He turned.
“I should inform you that the leader of the Separatist peace opposition to the Tesfeld government met with the Royal Federation legation ambassador earlier this morning.” The figure paused to hear the muffled sound of a car horn from outside among the hubbub of the city street, “...I see little reason for the Tesfeld authorities nor the ASN Intervention to… How did you put it, ‘intervene in your conflict’, should they decide to seize jurisdiction over your legation territories should that prove profitable for them.”
Salierto proceeded to walk out, placing a government contact card upon a small counter on the way out, “I pray both for the Tesfeld State, and your own government, that they do not.”
Upper Natse-Lane (University Bus 3)
The prediction of arson was no untrue. It was only several minutes later of making their way down the large, open boulevard that they could begin to make out the plumes of black smoke emanating from their bus. Their distance, however, did not seem to deplete their assaults. The crowds now seems to grow now that their bus had been dealt with; all eyes were on the university group.
Bottles came flying at them through the air as their ears were pummeled by the cacophony of shouting, discordant music from countless sources, screaming and clattering objects. Soon the crowds had swelled four-fold. However, even worse lay ahead for the party. Down the long road, rather than seeing help lie ahead, they instead saw legions of more people from another gathering. Together the mob forced a wall from building to building, who quickly began to approach the other mass in their focus upon this completely unknown group to them; they joined in the heckling and throwing two.
The group was being surrounded.
But as the minutes went by and crowds thickened in their numbers, which people now were becoming so bold as to charge towards the team with weapons. They continued trying to strike out at the heads of the staff with bats, crowbars, bike locks and anything else they could find. But their bombardment abruptly came to an end as their torrent of strikes was suddenly replaced by the roaring of rotors.
From above loomed the silhouette of a circling police helicopter. The residential blocks that lined the roads kept the vehicle from landing, but the sounds of its blades and the booming megaphone voice of a Teliran shouting orders in Sasonish quickly melted away the confidence of the crowds. The group had been granted respite for now as the cracking sound of a marksman from the helicopter sent the masses rushing a healthy distance from the university party.
As all seemed well, something bad happened. Something very bad.
Above the chattering and worried hubbub of the locals, there came this overpowering hiss of something like a firework being sent up into the sky. It was undecipherable from where the sound came, but its destination was more sudden. From above the ear-breaking crack was followed by a deathly rumble.
Like a bird hit from the sky, the police helicopter came drifting downwards as the machine’s motor let out a high-pitched groan, like a balloon deflating. The sound of its rotors had now changed, the constant whirring was now replaced by the ever-rising and lowering-pitch of the dying machine.
At first its descent seemed controlled, only pivoting slightly as the chopper rapidly lowered towards the road. But the moment its blades even seemed to come close to the nearby building, the entire thing seemed to explode in a hellish spray of rotors, metal and rubble. The moment the helicopter hit the building, the street exploded into screams and wails of panic, car alarms joined the orchestra of terror as the city seemed to erupt into the distant cry of sirens.
Debris had smashed down in all directions, some objects smashed into those among the crowds as people came running in all directions. Some barged through the students into nearby alleyways as others desperately tried dragging or tending to the collapsed bodies of victims at the disaster area. Flames licked up the side of the hit residential building as the crack of gunfire down the lane indicates that the danger was far from over.
Suddenly the group were intercepted by a middle-aged Teliran. Terror was clearly in his eyes as he cried out, “With me! Follow me!” As he disappeared through a broken pane for a nearby shop.