Tiberian Eve
Chapter 2: Berlin Crisis
Nod forces had run into a wall on their next assault on Berlin. GDI troops had dug in and had smashed the first few attempts by the 43rd Armored Division to punch through the German forces. The smoking craters where Nod Tick Tanks had been covered the entire field, making it look like the surface of the moon. The current situation was so bad that Slavik had been ordered to take command of the 4th Armored Division to attempt to at least salvage the situation from total defeat.
"I assume our forces can't even get close to Berlin now," said Conner.
"Yes. One of the GDI divisions counterattacked and destroyed what was left of 8th Army. That was a very unfortunate loss."
"Of course. The loss of that many troops will cost us dearly in the long and short term."
"What are your forces going to do about those Mammoth Mark IIs?" Slavik asked.
"We can't do anything at the moment," Conner replied, "GDI has kept them back and I won't risk my fighters for an air raid. Besides, we don't even know where they are at the moment."
"A damn pity too. Will the Elite Cadre provide support for this attack?"
"Yes. My forces will protect your flank to the south. GDI might try to use a kettle-envelopment tactic."
"Let us hope they don't," said Slavik, "The supply situation is rather dangerous at the moment. How soon before our forces will be ready to attack?"
"One day and the positioning will be complete."
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General James William Langley was meeting with his staff at Hammerfest Base. The base was incredibly well guarded by the Firestorm Shield as well as the Firestorm Taskforce. He was extracting his light infantry from China and they would be traveling east to the United States and then to Europe. A rather lengthy trip, but it was better than flying through enemy territory.
"How is the Israeli front holding out?" he asked the assembled officers.
"Currently the Israeli Army has smashed the Egyptian and Syrian armies, forcing Nod to move troops south to deal with them. The Iraqi and Iranian armies are both preparing to launch an offensive, but we have a surprise waiting for them."
"GDI has deployed an armored division there," a major continued, "They will be more than enough to smash through whatever armor those two armies have. Nod still hasn't had the time to supply their Middle East allies with too much modern equipment, which works in our advantage."
"How much territory does the Israelis hold?" asked Langley.
"Currently they control the Suez Canal and all of Syria, and are poised to take the offensive into the rest of Egypt and other Arab countries in the region. However, they will not attempt it. Our Turkish allies have launched an offensive into Iraq but are keeping the bulk of their army in the north, to act as defense against any attempted invasion."
"That'll have to do for now," Langley noted, "How is Berlin holding out?"
"Our troops have smashed the 8th Shock Army though we lost two armored and one infantry division to do that. The Elite Cadre forces have also been badly mauled by our Mammoth Mark IIs, and we still have some tactical advantage."
"Tactical advantages. They don't really mean much when strategic advantages are gone. When is the next counterattack going to take place?"
"In one day," the major answered.
"Dr. Boudreau has also supplied us with the Tiberium power cells," said a colonel, "We can now deploy our Tactical units."
"Do so."
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Slavik and Conner were inspecting a ground of the Elite Cadre's formations. This one was a heavy infantry corp. and was well equipped. They wore battle armor that could stop machinegun fire and protect against shrapnel. Also, each was equipped with particle weapons. Their uniforms looked far bulkier than the normal infantry armor that Nod troops had, but that was probably because these troops were supposed to take on tanks and survive to tell about it. Their armor was similar to that of a cyborg, but these were humans, not machines. Like many others, Slavik remembered how Cabal had slaughtered Nod's troops and used them as body parts for his cyborg armies. Though Nod now still used cyborgs, it was not something he or Conner liked.
"Your troops are all extremely well trained," Slavik noted.
"Their purpose is to be able to survive the heaviest and most dangerous combat situations," Conner replied, "There was a time that the Black Hand was also this respected. Now it is only feared."
"What you say has some truth to it. However, we provide security for Grand Marshal Kane himself, so it is a good thing that we are feared."
"Be careful," Conner warned Slavik, "The rest of the Brotherhood fears the Black Hand, and loyalty through fear almost always results in unhappiness. However, loyalty through respect is something else entirely."
"You would know," said Slavik, "I must admit, the Elite Cadre have the best combat record in the entire Brotherhood, even better than the Black Hand. I wonder which of our factions would win in battle?"
"Each of us has built our own power base within Nod," said Conner, "Mine is currently more stable than yours, but you are a friend. Know this. Grand Marshal Kane is not displeased with you, though he may act that way. You are his trusted right hand."
"And you are mine," Slavik replied, "General, I have grown to respect you for a friend as well as a commander. Your handling of the Battle of Germany has been superb. Now, let me tell you something in return for what you've told me. Grand Marshal Kane wants you to pull your forces out of Germany. GDI troops have reinforced their formations and he doubts it will be a battle we can win. However, he requests that your forces return to Egypt and prepare to attack the Israelis. They are far too close to Cairo for comfort."
"Very true," said Conner, "Who will be in command of the European theater than?"
"I am taking over and the Black Hand will replace the troops you're pulling out. We will attack through Italy."
"A hard place to fight, with all those mountains," Conner observed.
"True. However, it may be the only way to end this stalemate. We have to make GDI split their forces in Europe."
"Field Marshal Slavik, General Conner," a voice said over the PA, "GDI forces are attacking from Berlin again."
"Fuck," Conner muttered, "We're on our way."
They quickly left the barracks and returned to the command center. Images popped up on the large board in the center of the room. The enemy assault was being led by strange looking units. They were taller and the looked more humanoid than any other GDI bipedal weapons platform. Their arms were also jointed so they actually had elbows. The machines were running very quickly and opened fire on the Nod troops. They were all firing with the right arm and a laser beam shot out. The beams struck the closest Nod tanks, incinerating them. The Nod tanks returned fire but somehow the units moved quickly enough to either sidestep or twirl away from the shots. A few started firing with the left arm, bullets shooting out. These bullets punctured the armor of the Nod Tick Tanks, destroying them quickly.
"What the hell are those?" Slavik demanded.
"Unknown," said the lieutenant, "We've never seen anything like them before."
"All units pull back," Conner ordered, "Get them within range of our defensive line."
The tanks started withdrawing, but the enemy units must have figured out what they were trying to do. They kept firing, taking out more of the enemy tanks, but didn't give chase. However, another foe did. Dozens of the new Phantom fighters that GDI had developed appeared. They shot across the sky and opened fire on the retreating tanks with their particle cannons, blowing them apart. Nod SAM sites opened fire, trying to shoot them down, but the fighters were too fast. Their shape, similar to that of a Banshee, didn't supply too large of a target and the stealth coat was able to fool the radar systems.
"Get our Banshees in the air," Conner ordered, "Bring those things down!"
Banshees from the Nod airbase took off and sped towards the battlefield. They arrived shortly after and opened fire on the GDI fighters. Unfortunately, the Phantoms had a speed advantage and dodged the first few shots. The Banshees peeled away for another attack run. The Phantoms quickly twisted away and tried to get behind the Banshees. One managed to do so and opened fire, its laser blasting apart one Banshee's wing. The damaged fighter managed to stay in the air but two more shots destroyed it. One Banshee suddenly spun around using its semicircular shape to do so and opened fire. This tactic caught the GDI pilots by surprise and the shots took down two enemy Phantoms. The others broke off and were immediately chased by the Banshees. Another Phantom was damaged but the wingman appeared and provided cover fire. The Banshee broke off as the GDI Phantom limped back to base under escort by his wingman. The remaining Phantoms also retreated, leaving the Banshees to themselves.
"Recall the Banshees," Conner ordered, "and tell them good job."
"Yes sir."
"That was an interesting little maneuver that pilot pulled off," Slavik commented.
"Yes. Very daring and dangerous, but under the circumstances it worked. GDI just used their new toys to great effect. They've decimated the forward guard of the 43rd. I don't think we can launch another attack. Better to keep our gains then to foolishly risk it."
"True. So we're forced to give up the initiative."
"We can launch another attack after the Italy campaign begins," said Conner, "For now, we need to secure the rear."
"We've advanced pretty far into Europe, have we not?" said Slavik.
"Perhaps, but I won't be comfortable with this situation until we've secured all of Germany."
"Field Marshal, Colonel Oxanna is trying to reach you."
"Oh?" said Slavik, "Put her through."
Oxanna's face appeared on the screen.
"Field Marshal Slavik, Grand Marshal Kane congratulates you on forcing GDI's hands. Now we have an evaluation of GDI's latest weapons."
"General Conner did most of the work," Slavik said to her.
"That has also been noted. General Conner is promoted to Field Marshal and is recalled to Egypt. The Elite Cadre Command Center will be your headquarters for the Israeli campaign. Understood?"
"Yes ma'am. When shall I report to Egypt?"
"By the end of this week. Details will arrive momentary."
Oxanna signed off.
"Notice anything different about her?" Conner asked.
"Yes. She's had cybernetic enhancements."
"Not something I like."
"I'm unsure about this too, but I'll trust her judgment about this. Congratulations on your promotion, Field Marshal Conner."
"Thank you Field Marshal Slavik. I will be reporting to my headquarters now. It was a pleasure to see you again."
The two men shook hands.
"It was a pleasure to fight alongside you again, old friend."
Conner left and was escorted down to his own Montauk. Nod had several and his personal command vehicle had been custom-built for security and for command and control capabilities. He boarded it and the vehicle took off. They would be traveling through the underground networks to Egypt through the Middle East.
Conner settled down in his office. Unknown to the Brotherhood and Kane, the Elite Cadre was loyal only to him. He had spent years preparing for this, and finally the time had come. Taking the time to sniff through the wreckage of Cabal's core had been worthwhile. The data held there provided Conner with proof that Kane had betrayed the Brotherhood. Soon it would be time to launch the coup and kill their so-called messiah. Unfortunately, that would also most likely mean killing Slavik as well. Conner hoped it wouldn't come to that, but Slavik was loyal to Kane till death. There was another matter. Colonel Oxanna. She was no longer to be trusted. At the first chance possible, Conner would have to have her eliminated.
Conner accessed his personal computer and brought up the locations of the Elite Cadre all across the world. The Brotherhood was spread out on every continent, but Russia was filled with Elite Cadre divisions. The main occupation troops were all standard Nod divisions, but the ones that held true power in Russia was the Elite Cadre. In Africa, it was a different story entirely. Elite Cadre forces were concentrated mainly in Egypt, which was a good thing. However, that left much of the continent uncovered. Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Iran were all controlled by loyalist forces. They could be cleared out if it came down to that. However, the fighting for Africa would be vicious. He would need GDI's assistance when the time came. In Europe, Nod forces were getting their asses kicked by the Firestorm Taskforce. The arrival of reinforcements from Asia would turn the tables on Nod. No matter what, Conner had to make sure that Russia stayed in his hands, but he didn't need the rest of Europe. South America was too important to let GDI have, but right now GDI troops were fighting a desperate battle. Nod forces were being drastically weakened by the long battle and the Elite Cadre was being deployed there as well. Soon the Elite Cadre force there would be enough to launch a coup with the assistance of the GDI armies stationed in Panama and Brazil.
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"How many times will we have to kill that bastard," McNeil cursed.
"Personally it isn't surprising that Kane is alive," said Langley, "Nod has reunited and is currently a very strong force. We had expected Nod to fragment again but Slavik and Conner held everything together until Kane's return. However, we have confirmed that he is alive so it really doesn't matter that we thought he was dead. What matters is how we're going to kill the bastard."
"Do we know where he is?" Bostic asked.
"In Cairo most likely," Langley answered.
"So why can't we just nuke that place?" Cortez asked.
"That won't guarantee it," said Langley, "Kane might slip out before the nuke hits and besides, we don't know for sure he is there right now. We'd have to invade Africa, but right now that's too risky."
That was something everyone here agreed on.
"What about that new unit the Firestorm Taskforce deployed?" asked Kathryn, "I've never seen it before."
"Neither have I," said McNeil, "Tell us about it."
Langley took out a data disk and inserted it into the drive. A holographic image of the unit appeared.
"This is the Tactical Wolverine. It is designed to run faster than any tank and be able to dodge enemy fire from tanks and such. The armor is enough to protect it from bullets and a few shots from enemy tanks. Plasma weapons may be effective, providing they hit that is. The TW is armed with two kinds of weapons. On the right arm is a particle cannon capable of destroying an armored unit with one shot. On the left arm is a 30mm railgun that can punch through tank armor and is effective against air units. The TW is mainly for anti-armor purposes, but it can be used in urban warfare situations."
"A very impressive piece of equipment," said Wyner, "How many do you have right now?"
"Enough for one regiment and all of those are deployed in Europe right now," Langley reported, "We'll have enough for three full divisions by the end of the month. All of them run on Tiberium power cells so we don't have to worry about fuel."
"Efficient," Kathryn noted.
"That's the idea. We also have a Tactical Titan in the works, but it'll be another month or so before we can start deploying them."
"Okay," said McNeil, "How effective will they be in the fighting in Europe?"
"It was a TW force that took out the lead elements of the 43rd Armored Division," said Langley, "I would think they're effective enough to do the job properly."
"How the hell did you get funding for research and development?" McNeil asked, "You never requested addition funds for this."
"Of course not. The Firestorm Taskforce draws in extra money from Tiberium harvesting operations."
"You sly bastard," Kathryn said admiringly, "How did you get away with it?"
"I pointed out to the UN that that way, they wouldn't have to increase my budget."
"Hmm, I'll have to use that approach sometime," said McNeil, "Very well. How's China doing?"
"We've taken out the pro-Nod leadership," Cortez reported, "Langley's light infantry really did a number on the enemy. They assaulted the main enemy base by themselves and managed to take it over without any support."
"It was nice of the Chinese to distract the Nod heavy armor," said Langley, "I doubt we would have done half as good if they didn't."
"So the invasion into Siberia will launch in two weeks," said Cortez, "Air assets are already in place and we're just shifting our forces north. The advance element is ready to move in. Nod's defensive line won't be that hard to crack."
"Good. So Brazil is our worst position right now," McNeil noted.
"Unless you want me to shift the Firestorm Taskforce back to Brazil," Langley suggested, "but that'd be hard considering the chaos down there."
"I think my men can hold out," said Cortez, "The main problem we're having is that our heavy armor is almost useless in the jungle. The Forgotten make up most of the frontline troops down there, and our troops mainly back them up. We need more Hover MRLS units. Their armor might be light, but they're strong enough to hold out against rockets and gunfire. Nod forces are having as much trouble as us when it comes down to moving armor around."
"A pity we can't deploy any more light fighters," said McNeil, "Does anyone else have light fighters besides the Firestorm Taskforce?"
"The Special Warfare Division does," said Kathryn, "If you want, I can send in an entire division down there. They might make a difference."
"How good are your boys?"
"Good enough that they mauled the Nod troops in Mexico during the Second Tiberium War," Langley put in, "I commanded them back then, remember?"
"I remember," said McNeil, "Okay, they have a go. We have to keep Brazil pro-GDI or we'll be facing invasion of the North America, and that's something we can't afford right now."
"The 24th Shock Army is our main worry down in South America," said Kathryn, "Intelligence says its one of the elite guard formations within Nod."
The Special Warfare Division also took care of intelligence matters along with the Firestorm Taskforce.
"So in other words we're in for a hell of a fight. Suggestions?" McNeil asked his staff.
"I'd like to move a few more Orca squadrons down to Brazil," said Wyner, "That way my troops will be able to provide better air cover. Nod forces down there don't have any Banshees, or as far as we know. I'd also like to station two more squadrons of F-35s."
"Go ahead," said McNeil, "I'm rather surprised a guards formation doesn't have Banshees."
"The 24th Air Fleet isn't deployed with the Shock Army right now," Langley informed them, "It's being used in the fighting in Germany. We had a rather nasty air battle with some of their fighters a day or so again when the TWs launched their attack. One of their pilots pulled a very slick maneuver that cost us two of our fighters."
"Is there any more intelligence reports that I don't know about?" McNeil asked Kathryn and Langley.
"Only one more," said Langley, "Something odd is going on within the Brotherhood. There are currently two major factions under Kane. One is led by Field Marshal Anton Slavik, the other by the newly promoted Field Marshal Richard Conner. Originally Slavik commanded the troops in Brazil but he has been pulled back to take care of the European theater. Conner was been ordered back to Egypt to face the Israeli threat."
"What's so odd about that?" Bostic asked.
"Because of the two factions that have emerged. The Elite Cadre and the Black Hand. Both are the best that Nod has and both have seen some very heavy fighting. The Elite Cadre is the one that smashed their way through Poland and most of Germany, while it was the Black Hand that destroyed most of our South American force. The two have never fought together, and it seems the Elite Cadre is gaining more power right now. The Elite Cadre is in a very curious position. Conner could very well become the heir to Nod if Slavik was eliminated."
"Which still wouldn't be very good news for us," said McNeil, "I've fought that bastard before, and he's one slick son of a bitch. So there might be a subtle power struggle within Nod. That work in our favor?"
"Hopefully it will. That's about all."
"Very well. Admiral Bostic, is it possible to have your heavy infantry support the assault into Siberia?"
"Yes. I can send them down immediately."
"Good. We want to take Siberia from Nod, and fast. Your troops are equipped to fight in cold conditions, so they should have less problems fighting in Siberia. If that's all, meeting adjourned."
The commanding officers all left the room. McNeil walked with Kathryn as she headed to the cafeteria.
"I would never have expected the Special Warfare Division to split in two," he said to her.
"I don't really mind," Kathryn replied, "James stays within his jurisdiction and my division is more of a special insertions thing than full out combat."
"You've certainly been in command of the division for a while," said McNeil, "Hell, when I was a colonel, you were already in charge and my superior."
"And now you're mine."
McNeil smiled. The world may be in chaos, but there was some order to his life.
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GDI Command in Brazil was another story entirely.
"General."
The three-star held up a hand as he listened to the radio. After a few seconds he looked up at the colonel.
"What is it now?"
"Air reinforcements have arrived sir. Also a division of light fighters will be arriving in a day or so."
"Good. Some reinforcements. Have those fighters in the air to run sorties. I want Nod's supply lines smashed. What's the situation with 5th Mechanized?"
"They've encountered forward enemy elements and are engaging."
"Dear god, this is fucked up."
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5th Mechanized was in reality a Forgotten/GDI combined force. Most of the mutant forces were already light fighters while GDI mainly supported them with bigger guns. A group of mutant troops with GDI disc throwers ran through the thick jungle.
"Where's the Nod recon squad?" the GDI lieutenant asked.
"They're approaching this area quickly," the Ghost Stalker replied, "I suggest we stay put and wait for them to come for us."
"Agreed. What is their composition?"
"Mostly recon bikes and buggies. Anything bigger would be too big."
The GDI and mutant forces laid in wait as the Nod forces closed in. The first unit to appear was a recon bike. Unfortunately, it never saw the GDI troops. One shot from the Ghost Stalker destroyed the recon bike while other mutant forces launched their missiles. The next three vehicles exploded from the multiple hits while the fourth managed to brake in time and turn. The buggy opened fire with its machine gun, shooting into the bushes. A disc thrower chucked a disc that struck the front and exploded, killing the driver and slagging the controls. One more recon unit was down.
"Pull back. We'll have to find another patrol to ambush."
The team retreated from the battlefield and quickly ran into the jungle. Suddenly Nod infantry spotted them and opened fire. A mutant and two GDI soldiers were hit and went down. The others dropped and returned fire. One of the mutant snipers picked up the targets on his scope and dropped three. More Nod soldiers poured out and opened fire, trying to find their enemy.
"Fuck, looks like we ran into one of the battalions," the lieutenant said.
"Si," the Ghost Stalker agreed, "How shall we handle this?"
"Retreat. We can't take down a force this large."
A few disc throwers threw their charges and killed several Nod soldiers bunched together. This caused the others to disperse as they advanced. Suddenly missiles streaked through the air and struck the advancing Nod infantry. The explosions threw several into the air, screams heard in the thick of the battle. More missiles shot overhead and struck the Nod troops. They started retreating, but machinegun fire punched through them. The lieutenant looked behind him and saw several Wolverines moving up supported by Hover MRLS units. He waved and one of the soldiers walking with the unit waved back. The assault team had made contact with one of the light armor units. The lieutenant quickly hurried over to his counterpart.
"We have orders to take out the artillery support," his counterpart said, "Could use some help."
"Sergeant, if you expect to be able to sneak up behind the enemy with that much armor, you're crazy."
"We don't intend to sneak up," the sergeant replied, "These units are going to act as diversion as our other teams move in and take out the artillery units."
"What other units?"
"Look around you."
The lieutenant did just that and saw dozens of mutants appear out of nowhere. A few were equipped with particle weapons while others simply carried rifles.
"Ah. Mind if we join you?"
"The more the merrier, sir. I guess the assault team is now yours. I'll be commanding the armored elements."
The lieutenant nodded and waved to the troops. One of the mutants gave him a map that he studied. They would still have some ways to go before they reached where the artillery had been spotted.
"All right, move out. Drink as we go, cause we don't have time to rest."
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Several Titans advanced and opened fire on the Nod Armored Division. The fighting in Germany had flared up again. Stealth Tanks moved closer and suddenly decloaked in front of the Titans and let loose their missile salvos. Unfortunately for several, the Titans reacted quickly enough to return fire and destroyed three. Five Titans were badly damaged while one was destroyed outright. The GDI forces continued to advance.
"This is Colonel Rever," the Nod commander said, "GDI troops are advancing towards our position. Request air support."
"Colonel, we have no air support at the moment," the Nod comm. officer informed him, "You'll have to face off this assault on your own."
The colonel swore but knew there was nothing he could do.
"Lieutenant, order all units to attack in groups and concentrate on a specific target. Fire until it is destroyed!"
"Yes sir."
The Tick Tanks split up into three groups of five. They were not dug in so had some maneuvering ability. One group opened fire and three of their shots struck the lead Titan, blowing it into pieces. Another group got shot up the new GDI weapon that had stalled the assault before. However, suddenly Banshees appeared and opened fire on the GDI units. Two returned fire and brought down a Banshee, but the others managed to destroy two enemy units as well. The battle was just getting started.
End of Chapter 2
This is going to be a long haul.
Z98
Chapter 2: Berlin Crisis
Nod forces had run into a wall on their next assault on Berlin. GDI troops had dug in and had smashed the first few attempts by the 43rd Armored Division to punch through the German forces. The smoking craters where Nod Tick Tanks had been covered the entire field, making it look like the surface of the moon. The current situation was so bad that Slavik had been ordered to take command of the 4th Armored Division to attempt to at least salvage the situation from total defeat.
"I assume our forces can't even get close to Berlin now," said Conner.
"Yes. One of the GDI divisions counterattacked and destroyed what was left of 8th Army. That was a very unfortunate loss."
"Of course. The loss of that many troops will cost us dearly in the long and short term."
"What are your forces going to do about those Mammoth Mark IIs?" Slavik asked.
"We can't do anything at the moment," Conner replied, "GDI has kept them back and I won't risk my fighters for an air raid. Besides, we don't even know where they are at the moment."
"A damn pity too. Will the Elite Cadre provide support for this attack?"
"Yes. My forces will protect your flank to the south. GDI might try to use a kettle-envelopment tactic."
"Let us hope they don't," said Slavik, "The supply situation is rather dangerous at the moment. How soon before our forces will be ready to attack?"
"One day and the positioning will be complete."
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General James William Langley was meeting with his staff at Hammerfest Base. The base was incredibly well guarded by the Firestorm Shield as well as the Firestorm Taskforce. He was extracting his light infantry from China and they would be traveling east to the United States and then to Europe. A rather lengthy trip, but it was better than flying through enemy territory.
"How is the Israeli front holding out?" he asked the assembled officers.
"Currently the Israeli Army has smashed the Egyptian and Syrian armies, forcing Nod to move troops south to deal with them. The Iraqi and Iranian armies are both preparing to launch an offensive, but we have a surprise waiting for them."
"GDI has deployed an armored division there," a major continued, "They will be more than enough to smash through whatever armor those two armies have. Nod still hasn't had the time to supply their Middle East allies with too much modern equipment, which works in our advantage."
"How much territory does the Israelis hold?" asked Langley.
"Currently they control the Suez Canal and all of Syria, and are poised to take the offensive into the rest of Egypt and other Arab countries in the region. However, they will not attempt it. Our Turkish allies have launched an offensive into Iraq but are keeping the bulk of their army in the north, to act as defense against any attempted invasion."
"That'll have to do for now," Langley noted, "How is Berlin holding out?"
"Our troops have smashed the 8th Shock Army though we lost two armored and one infantry division to do that. The Elite Cadre forces have also been badly mauled by our Mammoth Mark IIs, and we still have some tactical advantage."
"Tactical advantages. They don't really mean much when strategic advantages are gone. When is the next counterattack going to take place?"
"In one day," the major answered.
"Dr. Boudreau has also supplied us with the Tiberium power cells," said a colonel, "We can now deploy our Tactical units."
"Do so."
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Slavik and Conner were inspecting a ground of the Elite Cadre's formations. This one was a heavy infantry corp. and was well equipped. They wore battle armor that could stop machinegun fire and protect against shrapnel. Also, each was equipped with particle weapons. Their uniforms looked far bulkier than the normal infantry armor that Nod troops had, but that was probably because these troops were supposed to take on tanks and survive to tell about it. Their armor was similar to that of a cyborg, but these were humans, not machines. Like many others, Slavik remembered how Cabal had slaughtered Nod's troops and used them as body parts for his cyborg armies. Though Nod now still used cyborgs, it was not something he or Conner liked.
"Your troops are all extremely well trained," Slavik noted.
"Their purpose is to be able to survive the heaviest and most dangerous combat situations," Conner replied, "There was a time that the Black Hand was also this respected. Now it is only feared."
"What you say has some truth to it. However, we provide security for Grand Marshal Kane himself, so it is a good thing that we are feared."
"Be careful," Conner warned Slavik, "The rest of the Brotherhood fears the Black Hand, and loyalty through fear almost always results in unhappiness. However, loyalty through respect is something else entirely."
"You would know," said Slavik, "I must admit, the Elite Cadre have the best combat record in the entire Brotherhood, even better than the Black Hand. I wonder which of our factions would win in battle?"
"Each of us has built our own power base within Nod," said Conner, "Mine is currently more stable than yours, but you are a friend. Know this. Grand Marshal Kane is not displeased with you, though he may act that way. You are his trusted right hand."
"And you are mine," Slavik replied, "General, I have grown to respect you for a friend as well as a commander. Your handling of the Battle of Germany has been superb. Now, let me tell you something in return for what you've told me. Grand Marshal Kane wants you to pull your forces out of Germany. GDI troops have reinforced their formations and he doubts it will be a battle we can win. However, he requests that your forces return to Egypt and prepare to attack the Israelis. They are far too close to Cairo for comfort."
"Very true," said Conner, "Who will be in command of the European theater than?"
"I am taking over and the Black Hand will replace the troops you're pulling out. We will attack through Italy."
"A hard place to fight, with all those mountains," Conner observed.
"True. However, it may be the only way to end this stalemate. We have to make GDI split their forces in Europe."
"Field Marshal Slavik, General Conner," a voice said over the PA, "GDI forces are attacking from Berlin again."
"Fuck," Conner muttered, "We're on our way."
They quickly left the barracks and returned to the command center. Images popped up on the large board in the center of the room. The enemy assault was being led by strange looking units. They were taller and the looked more humanoid than any other GDI bipedal weapons platform. Their arms were also jointed so they actually had elbows. The machines were running very quickly and opened fire on the Nod troops. They were all firing with the right arm and a laser beam shot out. The beams struck the closest Nod tanks, incinerating them. The Nod tanks returned fire but somehow the units moved quickly enough to either sidestep or twirl away from the shots. A few started firing with the left arm, bullets shooting out. These bullets punctured the armor of the Nod Tick Tanks, destroying them quickly.
"What the hell are those?" Slavik demanded.
"Unknown," said the lieutenant, "We've never seen anything like them before."
"All units pull back," Conner ordered, "Get them within range of our defensive line."
The tanks started withdrawing, but the enemy units must have figured out what they were trying to do. They kept firing, taking out more of the enemy tanks, but didn't give chase. However, another foe did. Dozens of the new Phantom fighters that GDI had developed appeared. They shot across the sky and opened fire on the retreating tanks with their particle cannons, blowing them apart. Nod SAM sites opened fire, trying to shoot them down, but the fighters were too fast. Their shape, similar to that of a Banshee, didn't supply too large of a target and the stealth coat was able to fool the radar systems.
"Get our Banshees in the air," Conner ordered, "Bring those things down!"
Banshees from the Nod airbase took off and sped towards the battlefield. They arrived shortly after and opened fire on the GDI fighters. Unfortunately, the Phantoms had a speed advantage and dodged the first few shots. The Banshees peeled away for another attack run. The Phantoms quickly twisted away and tried to get behind the Banshees. One managed to do so and opened fire, its laser blasting apart one Banshee's wing. The damaged fighter managed to stay in the air but two more shots destroyed it. One Banshee suddenly spun around using its semicircular shape to do so and opened fire. This tactic caught the GDI pilots by surprise and the shots took down two enemy Phantoms. The others broke off and were immediately chased by the Banshees. Another Phantom was damaged but the wingman appeared and provided cover fire. The Banshee broke off as the GDI Phantom limped back to base under escort by his wingman. The remaining Phantoms also retreated, leaving the Banshees to themselves.
"Recall the Banshees," Conner ordered, "and tell them good job."
"Yes sir."
"That was an interesting little maneuver that pilot pulled off," Slavik commented.
"Yes. Very daring and dangerous, but under the circumstances it worked. GDI just used their new toys to great effect. They've decimated the forward guard of the 43rd. I don't think we can launch another attack. Better to keep our gains then to foolishly risk it."
"True. So we're forced to give up the initiative."
"We can launch another attack after the Italy campaign begins," said Conner, "For now, we need to secure the rear."
"We've advanced pretty far into Europe, have we not?" said Slavik.
"Perhaps, but I won't be comfortable with this situation until we've secured all of Germany."
"Field Marshal, Colonel Oxanna is trying to reach you."
"Oh?" said Slavik, "Put her through."
Oxanna's face appeared on the screen.
"Field Marshal Slavik, Grand Marshal Kane congratulates you on forcing GDI's hands. Now we have an evaluation of GDI's latest weapons."
"General Conner did most of the work," Slavik said to her.
"That has also been noted. General Conner is promoted to Field Marshal and is recalled to Egypt. The Elite Cadre Command Center will be your headquarters for the Israeli campaign. Understood?"
"Yes ma'am. When shall I report to Egypt?"
"By the end of this week. Details will arrive momentary."
Oxanna signed off.
"Notice anything different about her?" Conner asked.
"Yes. She's had cybernetic enhancements."
"Not something I like."
"I'm unsure about this too, but I'll trust her judgment about this. Congratulations on your promotion, Field Marshal Conner."
"Thank you Field Marshal Slavik. I will be reporting to my headquarters now. It was a pleasure to see you again."
The two men shook hands.
"It was a pleasure to fight alongside you again, old friend."
Conner left and was escorted down to his own Montauk. Nod had several and his personal command vehicle had been custom-built for security and for command and control capabilities. He boarded it and the vehicle took off. They would be traveling through the underground networks to Egypt through the Middle East.
Conner settled down in his office. Unknown to the Brotherhood and Kane, the Elite Cadre was loyal only to him. He had spent years preparing for this, and finally the time had come. Taking the time to sniff through the wreckage of Cabal's core had been worthwhile. The data held there provided Conner with proof that Kane had betrayed the Brotherhood. Soon it would be time to launch the coup and kill their so-called messiah. Unfortunately, that would also most likely mean killing Slavik as well. Conner hoped it wouldn't come to that, but Slavik was loyal to Kane till death. There was another matter. Colonel Oxanna. She was no longer to be trusted. At the first chance possible, Conner would have to have her eliminated.
Conner accessed his personal computer and brought up the locations of the Elite Cadre all across the world. The Brotherhood was spread out on every continent, but Russia was filled with Elite Cadre divisions. The main occupation troops were all standard Nod divisions, but the ones that held true power in Russia was the Elite Cadre. In Africa, it was a different story entirely. Elite Cadre forces were concentrated mainly in Egypt, which was a good thing. However, that left much of the continent uncovered. Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Iran were all controlled by loyalist forces. They could be cleared out if it came down to that. However, the fighting for Africa would be vicious. He would need GDI's assistance when the time came. In Europe, Nod forces were getting their asses kicked by the Firestorm Taskforce. The arrival of reinforcements from Asia would turn the tables on Nod. No matter what, Conner had to make sure that Russia stayed in his hands, but he didn't need the rest of Europe. South America was too important to let GDI have, but right now GDI troops were fighting a desperate battle. Nod forces were being drastically weakened by the long battle and the Elite Cadre was being deployed there as well. Soon the Elite Cadre force there would be enough to launch a coup with the assistance of the GDI armies stationed in Panama and Brazil.
============================================================================
"How many times will we have to kill that bastard," McNeil cursed.
"Personally it isn't surprising that Kane is alive," said Langley, "Nod has reunited and is currently a very strong force. We had expected Nod to fragment again but Slavik and Conner held everything together until Kane's return. However, we have confirmed that he is alive so it really doesn't matter that we thought he was dead. What matters is how we're going to kill the bastard."
"Do we know where he is?" Bostic asked.
"In Cairo most likely," Langley answered.
"So why can't we just nuke that place?" Cortez asked.
"That won't guarantee it," said Langley, "Kane might slip out before the nuke hits and besides, we don't know for sure he is there right now. We'd have to invade Africa, but right now that's too risky."
That was something everyone here agreed on.
"What about that new unit the Firestorm Taskforce deployed?" asked Kathryn, "I've never seen it before."
"Neither have I," said McNeil, "Tell us about it."
Langley took out a data disk and inserted it into the drive. A holographic image of the unit appeared.
"This is the Tactical Wolverine. It is designed to run faster than any tank and be able to dodge enemy fire from tanks and such. The armor is enough to protect it from bullets and a few shots from enemy tanks. Plasma weapons may be effective, providing they hit that is. The TW is armed with two kinds of weapons. On the right arm is a particle cannon capable of destroying an armored unit with one shot. On the left arm is a 30mm railgun that can punch through tank armor and is effective against air units. The TW is mainly for anti-armor purposes, but it can be used in urban warfare situations."
"A very impressive piece of equipment," said Wyner, "How many do you have right now?"
"Enough for one regiment and all of those are deployed in Europe right now," Langley reported, "We'll have enough for three full divisions by the end of the month. All of them run on Tiberium power cells so we don't have to worry about fuel."
"Efficient," Kathryn noted.
"That's the idea. We also have a Tactical Titan in the works, but it'll be another month or so before we can start deploying them."
"Okay," said McNeil, "How effective will they be in the fighting in Europe?"
"It was a TW force that took out the lead elements of the 43rd Armored Division," said Langley, "I would think they're effective enough to do the job properly."
"How the hell did you get funding for research and development?" McNeil asked, "You never requested addition funds for this."
"Of course not. The Firestorm Taskforce draws in extra money from Tiberium harvesting operations."
"You sly bastard," Kathryn said admiringly, "How did you get away with it?"
"I pointed out to the UN that that way, they wouldn't have to increase my budget."
"Hmm, I'll have to use that approach sometime," said McNeil, "Very well. How's China doing?"
"We've taken out the pro-Nod leadership," Cortez reported, "Langley's light infantry really did a number on the enemy. They assaulted the main enemy base by themselves and managed to take it over without any support."
"It was nice of the Chinese to distract the Nod heavy armor," said Langley, "I doubt we would have done half as good if they didn't."
"So the invasion into Siberia will launch in two weeks," said Cortez, "Air assets are already in place and we're just shifting our forces north. The advance element is ready to move in. Nod's defensive line won't be that hard to crack."
"Good. So Brazil is our worst position right now," McNeil noted.
"Unless you want me to shift the Firestorm Taskforce back to Brazil," Langley suggested, "but that'd be hard considering the chaos down there."
"I think my men can hold out," said Cortez, "The main problem we're having is that our heavy armor is almost useless in the jungle. The Forgotten make up most of the frontline troops down there, and our troops mainly back them up. We need more Hover MRLS units. Their armor might be light, but they're strong enough to hold out against rockets and gunfire. Nod forces are having as much trouble as us when it comes down to moving armor around."
"A pity we can't deploy any more light fighters," said McNeil, "Does anyone else have light fighters besides the Firestorm Taskforce?"
"The Special Warfare Division does," said Kathryn, "If you want, I can send in an entire division down there. They might make a difference."
"How good are your boys?"
"Good enough that they mauled the Nod troops in Mexico during the Second Tiberium War," Langley put in, "I commanded them back then, remember?"
"I remember," said McNeil, "Okay, they have a go. We have to keep Brazil pro-GDI or we'll be facing invasion of the North America, and that's something we can't afford right now."
"The 24th Shock Army is our main worry down in South America," said Kathryn, "Intelligence says its one of the elite guard formations within Nod."
The Special Warfare Division also took care of intelligence matters along with the Firestorm Taskforce.
"So in other words we're in for a hell of a fight. Suggestions?" McNeil asked his staff.
"I'd like to move a few more Orca squadrons down to Brazil," said Wyner, "That way my troops will be able to provide better air cover. Nod forces down there don't have any Banshees, or as far as we know. I'd also like to station two more squadrons of F-35s."
"Go ahead," said McNeil, "I'm rather surprised a guards formation doesn't have Banshees."
"The 24th Air Fleet isn't deployed with the Shock Army right now," Langley informed them, "It's being used in the fighting in Germany. We had a rather nasty air battle with some of their fighters a day or so again when the TWs launched their attack. One of their pilots pulled a very slick maneuver that cost us two of our fighters."
"Is there any more intelligence reports that I don't know about?" McNeil asked Kathryn and Langley.
"Only one more," said Langley, "Something odd is going on within the Brotherhood. There are currently two major factions under Kane. One is led by Field Marshal Anton Slavik, the other by the newly promoted Field Marshal Richard Conner. Originally Slavik commanded the troops in Brazil but he has been pulled back to take care of the European theater. Conner was been ordered back to Egypt to face the Israeli threat."
"What's so odd about that?" Bostic asked.
"Because of the two factions that have emerged. The Elite Cadre and the Black Hand. Both are the best that Nod has and both have seen some very heavy fighting. The Elite Cadre is the one that smashed their way through Poland and most of Germany, while it was the Black Hand that destroyed most of our South American force. The two have never fought together, and it seems the Elite Cadre is gaining more power right now. The Elite Cadre is in a very curious position. Conner could very well become the heir to Nod if Slavik was eliminated."
"Which still wouldn't be very good news for us," said McNeil, "I've fought that bastard before, and he's one slick son of a bitch. So there might be a subtle power struggle within Nod. That work in our favor?"
"Hopefully it will. That's about all."
"Very well. Admiral Bostic, is it possible to have your heavy infantry support the assault into Siberia?"
"Yes. I can send them down immediately."
"Good. We want to take Siberia from Nod, and fast. Your troops are equipped to fight in cold conditions, so they should have less problems fighting in Siberia. If that's all, meeting adjourned."
The commanding officers all left the room. McNeil walked with Kathryn as she headed to the cafeteria.
"I would never have expected the Special Warfare Division to split in two," he said to her.
"I don't really mind," Kathryn replied, "James stays within his jurisdiction and my division is more of a special insertions thing than full out combat."
"You've certainly been in command of the division for a while," said McNeil, "Hell, when I was a colonel, you were already in charge and my superior."
"And now you're mine."
McNeil smiled. The world may be in chaos, but there was some order to his life.
============================================================================
GDI Command in Brazil was another story entirely.
"General."
The three-star held up a hand as he listened to the radio. After a few seconds he looked up at the colonel.
"What is it now?"
"Air reinforcements have arrived sir. Also a division of light fighters will be arriving in a day or so."
"Good. Some reinforcements. Have those fighters in the air to run sorties. I want Nod's supply lines smashed. What's the situation with 5th Mechanized?"
"They've encountered forward enemy elements and are engaging."
"Dear god, this is fucked up."
============================================================================
5th Mechanized was in reality a Forgotten/GDI combined force. Most of the mutant forces were already light fighters while GDI mainly supported them with bigger guns. A group of mutant troops with GDI disc throwers ran through the thick jungle.
"Where's the Nod recon squad?" the GDI lieutenant asked.
"They're approaching this area quickly," the Ghost Stalker replied, "I suggest we stay put and wait for them to come for us."
"Agreed. What is their composition?"
"Mostly recon bikes and buggies. Anything bigger would be too big."
The GDI and mutant forces laid in wait as the Nod forces closed in. The first unit to appear was a recon bike. Unfortunately, it never saw the GDI troops. One shot from the Ghost Stalker destroyed the recon bike while other mutant forces launched their missiles. The next three vehicles exploded from the multiple hits while the fourth managed to brake in time and turn. The buggy opened fire with its machine gun, shooting into the bushes. A disc thrower chucked a disc that struck the front and exploded, killing the driver and slagging the controls. One more recon unit was down.
"Pull back. We'll have to find another patrol to ambush."
The team retreated from the battlefield and quickly ran into the jungle. Suddenly Nod infantry spotted them and opened fire. A mutant and two GDI soldiers were hit and went down. The others dropped and returned fire. One of the mutant snipers picked up the targets on his scope and dropped three. More Nod soldiers poured out and opened fire, trying to find their enemy.
"Fuck, looks like we ran into one of the battalions," the lieutenant said.
"Si," the Ghost Stalker agreed, "How shall we handle this?"
"Retreat. We can't take down a force this large."
A few disc throwers threw their charges and killed several Nod soldiers bunched together. This caused the others to disperse as they advanced. Suddenly missiles streaked through the air and struck the advancing Nod infantry. The explosions threw several into the air, screams heard in the thick of the battle. More missiles shot overhead and struck the Nod troops. They started retreating, but machinegun fire punched through them. The lieutenant looked behind him and saw several Wolverines moving up supported by Hover MRLS units. He waved and one of the soldiers walking with the unit waved back. The assault team had made contact with one of the light armor units. The lieutenant quickly hurried over to his counterpart.
"We have orders to take out the artillery support," his counterpart said, "Could use some help."
"Sergeant, if you expect to be able to sneak up behind the enemy with that much armor, you're crazy."
"We don't intend to sneak up," the sergeant replied, "These units are going to act as diversion as our other teams move in and take out the artillery units."
"What other units?"
"Look around you."
The lieutenant did just that and saw dozens of mutants appear out of nowhere. A few were equipped with particle weapons while others simply carried rifles.
"Ah. Mind if we join you?"
"The more the merrier, sir. I guess the assault team is now yours. I'll be commanding the armored elements."
The lieutenant nodded and waved to the troops. One of the mutants gave him a map that he studied. They would still have some ways to go before they reached where the artillery had been spotted.
"All right, move out. Drink as we go, cause we don't have time to rest."
============================================================================
Several Titans advanced and opened fire on the Nod Armored Division. The fighting in Germany had flared up again. Stealth Tanks moved closer and suddenly decloaked in front of the Titans and let loose their missile salvos. Unfortunately for several, the Titans reacted quickly enough to return fire and destroyed three. Five Titans were badly damaged while one was destroyed outright. The GDI forces continued to advance.
"This is Colonel Rever," the Nod commander said, "GDI troops are advancing towards our position. Request air support."
"Colonel, we have no air support at the moment," the Nod comm. officer informed him, "You'll have to face off this assault on your own."
The colonel swore but knew there was nothing he could do.
"Lieutenant, order all units to attack in groups and concentrate on a specific target. Fire until it is destroyed!"
"Yes sir."
The Tick Tanks split up into three groups of five. They were not dug in so had some maneuvering ability. One group opened fire and three of their shots struck the lead Titan, blowing it into pieces. Another group got shot up the new GDI weapon that had stalled the assault before. However, suddenly Banshees appeared and opened fire on the GDI units. Two returned fire and brought down a Banshee, but the others managed to destroy two enemy units as well. The battle was just getting started.
End of Chapter 2
This is going to be a long haul.
Z98
