Chapter 6: High Water Mark part I
This is it guys. The final day of the battle has at last come. I can see that it's too long to put it in one chapter, so the day of the final battle is divided into to parts: The bombardment and charge up to the Reb's "High Water Mark". Of course the song here is called "High Water Mark", the last song of Iced Earth's Gettysburg Trilogy, and the namesake of this and next chapter. So strap yourselves in. This is the epic final battle, and a lot is at stake here. Have fun!!!
It is now July 3. The climax of the battle is about to come on this day. Both sides now stood poised to finish the fight and the war once and for all.
At Round Top, the 20th Maine, the Digidestineds, Terminal and Ruuji's division are on guard here, still out of ammo after yesterday's fight. Kira goes to Col. Chamberlain as a courier arrives.
Kira: "Col. sir, a courier from Col. Rice."
Lieutenant: "Col, Chamberlain sir."
Chamberlain: "My men need rations Lieutenant."
Lieutenant: "Sir, Col. Rice has informed me that you and the rest including Gen. Ruuji's men are relieved."
Chamberlain: "Relieved?"
Lieutenant: "Fresh troops and additional weaponries are on their way up and take over. Col. Rice wants to give your people and the Digidestineds rest. You'll fall back and I'll show the way."
Tai: "Alright. Sora, Ruuji, Kira have everyone fall in. We're moving out."
Sora, Ruuji and Kira: "Right away."
Ruuji: "By the way, where are we going Lieutenant?"
Lieutenant: "Oh sir, lovely spot. Safest place on the battlefield. Right smack dab in the center."
Everyone is relieved that they are given a chance to fall back and rest. They salute each other and off they go.
Meanwhile at Seminary Ridge, Generals Lee and Longstreet along with Gilbert Durandal dismounts from their horses and check out their strategies.
Lee: "Now for today, we will attack the center. You are right about the flank. Generals Hood and McLaws were both very badly damaged yesterday. What I'll do is give you 2 other divisions: Generals Pettigrew and Trimble. Now you will have 3 divisions at your command including Pickett. Your objective will be that clump of trees yonder. The attack will be preceded by massed artillery. We'll concentrate all our guns on that one small area. That would probably scare the Digidestineds away. When the artilleries had its effect, your charge will break the line. You'll have nearly 15,000 men and our sophisticated weapons at your disposal. You may begin whenever you're ready. But plan it well, do plan it well I pray you sir. We stake everything on this."
Longstreet: "Sir, allow me to speak. I've been a soldier all my life. I have been with soldiers engaged in fights by couples, by squads, companies, regiments, divisions, and armies, and should know, as well as any one, what soldiers can do. I've served from the ranks on up, you know my service. But I must tell you now. It is my opinion, and I believe this attack will fail."
Lee and Durandal cast a look of questioning glances at him. Lee's face has the expression of 'care to explain?' Longstreet still makes his remarks about the strategy.
Longstreet: "No fifteen thousand men ever arranged for battle can take that position. It's a distance of more than a mile over open ground. When the men come out they'll be under fire of Union artillery as well as Digimons from both long-range and the air. Those are Hancock's, Ra-Khan's and king Yoh Asakura's boys over there. In addition they have a stone wall that protects and fortifies their place."
Lee: "We do our duty General, we do what we must do. And in my plan, you will trust."
Durandal: "Do not worry. All we need is an effective strategy and we will win, even against the Digimons there. Just plan carefully ok?"
Longstreet: "...Yes sir."
Lee: "The artillery chief, Colonel Porter Alexander is very good. We will depend on him to drive them off the ridge before any of your divisions get there. And everyone will know what to do, all 15,000 will concentrate squarely on the center of that line, that lower ridge there. The line is not strong there. General Meade has great strength on both flanks. He must be weak in the center. I estimate his strength on the center not to be more then 5,000 men. And Col. Alexander can break them up like what we did when we're at the last battle against the Blue Cosmos. We took care of their massed units and divisions there."
Longstreet: "Yes, alright sir."
Lee: "Farewell."
Durandal: "Good luck. I know you can do it."
Longstreet: "Thanks for your support sir."
Lee:
"It was very close yesterday
I thought for sure they would break
But this attack that I have planned
A massive strike across open land
In the center they will break (Will They Break?)
But plan it well, everything's at stake
We'll hit 'em hard, not a silent gun
Before the infantry's begun
Execute it well, we risk everything
It's in God's hands now"
Longstreet:
"General Lee I must tell you straight
That I believe this attack will fail
No 15,000 men ever made
Will overtake that ridge today
A mile charge over open ground
With Yankee cannon gunnin' us down"
Lee:
"We do our duty, we do what we must
And Ii my plan you will trust"
(Thousands die, on this day)
Execute it well, we risk everything
It's in God's hands now"
And off Longstreet goes. He is left to himself, and in his mind that this will be a bad move. But he could only hope the artillery will do the trick. He tells Gen. Pickett nearby to get his whole division ready. Pickett rode off, yelling like a cowboy, happy and excited to get to have some action now. Then Longstreet rode to where Col. Edward Porter Alexander is. There he gives him his task.
Longstreet: "Col. Alexander, those Federal guns on that little place can cause us some trouble. I want you to use our specialized mortars, cannons and artilleries to keep them silent and drive them off. Then you move forward when the infantry advance keeping the flanks clear. Well Porter, we must also, clear those guns placed there and the Digidestineds off that low center ridge over there. That is the main thing."
Alexander: "No problems sir. I'll be sure to keep 'em shooting."
Longstreet: "Good. I want you to use everything we had. Maximum effort. Fire all long range ordinance, but don't open up until I give the word and everything's in position. Then fire with everything you got. I don't want to see one gun silent. Find an observation point and check the damage. We must clear those people off that ridge. If we don't, well, anyway let me know when you're running low on ammo. We must conserve to support the infantry, is that clear?"
Alexander: "Yes sir."
After giving Alexander his task, he then goes the chosen division commanders leading the charge: James Johnston Pettigrew, Isaac Ridgeway Trimble and George Edward Pickett. He tells them the strategy and gives them the final words. "Remember, that is the conversion point, the copse of trees. We'll use all the artillery. It will center on that ridge there. We'll fire all we have till the ammunition runs out. When that is done, I'll give the word and you all go in. Gentlemen, I do believe this attack will decide the fate of all mankind. All the men who died in the past are with you today."
The 3 generals said their last words and their thanks to him and off they go. Longstreet goes along when he meets Henry Harrison (remember him from Chapter 1?), a scout he hired.
Harrison: "Hello sir."
Longstreet: "...Harrison?"
Harrison: "Would you mind giving me a rifle or a machine gun? I think today I'd like to join the attack. I could have a shirt or a uniform with our banner on it. Sir just once. Because I think that today will be the last one."
Longstreet: "...You know what's gonna happen?"
Harrison: "...Err no sir."
Longstreet: "I'll tell ya. Troops are now forming behind the line of trees. When they come out, they'll be under fire from long range artillery and attacks from Digimons from both the ground and air. Both infantry and infantry supporters come out under fire with more than a mile to walk. And still, within the open field, they get in range of aimed snipers and sharpshooters."
Longstreet continues his speech to him. He knows all too well the error of this plan, and everything else about the strategy.
Longstreet: "They'll be slowed down by that fence there. And the formation what's left of it will begin to come apart. When they cross that road, they'll be under fire from short range artillery as well as their own infantry supporters. Thousands of bits of shrapnel wiping holes in the lines. In addition, they'll be dealing with strong Digimons too. Even FAITH will have a tough time dealing with them. If they get through that wall without breaking up, there won't be many left. Maybe, just maybe, our artillery can break their defenses. That's Hancock, Ra-Khan and king Yoh there, they ain't gonna run. If they get to that road, or beyond it, we'll suffer 50 casualties, maybe even more. But Harrison, I don't believe our guys can reach that wall."
Now with that being said, Harrison now doesn't look enthusiastic about it. After a little pondering, he made up his choice. "Sir, if you would allow me to, I'll join in the charge sir." Longstreet was slightly surprised at his choice. He decides to let him go after all, but it seems that he's asking for it. (A little note: In the end, Harrison survives the charge.)
Back at the Union lines, the 20th Maine, Terminal, Ruuji's men and the Digidestineds march from the Round Tops to Cemetery Ridge. All the Digidestineds there, when they see Tai and his team returning, they all go to him like he's a celebrity. They all come to show their respect, admiration and honor to their leader-in-chief. They all love him, and Tai's also responsible for boosting up their morale like no other. A little off in the distance, Brig. Gen. Maes Hughes sees it all. "Well, that kid's got real talents." Maes said to himself.
Later they arrive at their destination, where they all rest. The lieutenant leads Col. Chamberlain, Tai, Edward, Negi and Ruuji to meet up with Generals Winfield Scott Hancock, Roy Mustang, Ra-Khan and king Yoh Asakura while Kira goes off to see Lacus. As usual they embrace each other and share a kiss, happy to be with one another's warmth. Then Kira goes with the rest, Lacus in tow. Ruuji is reunited with his friends Re-Mii, (though not Digidetineds, but are mercenaries hired in this war, also from Zoids Genesis) Kotona, Garaga, Ron and Seijuro. Now they meet up with the generals.
Lieutenant: "Sirs, Col. Chamberlain of the 20th Maine, Kira in charge of Terminal, and the Digidestineds Negi, Edward, Lt. Gen. Ruuji Familon and the leader-in-chief Tai."
Hancock: "Chamberlain? I hear from the ranks that you may be more involved than anyone the staff has told me. You Digidestineds sure show immense bravery out there."
Chamberlain: "We were involved alright."
Tai: "Indeed we are."
Roy Mustang: "They told us you ordered a bayonet charge, and you involve the Digidestineds. Now there's nothing to be ashamed of I might tell you. You know, we need fighting men and dedicated people in this army. And one damn thing for sure is we need some efficient and brave leaders. Tai, Ruuji, Ed, you guys are perfect examples."
Hancock: "Correct you are. Meanwhile well done guys, well done." (Goes to shake their hands and Chamberlain.)
Chamberlain: "Thank you sir."
Ra-Khan: "How's your outfit?"
Chamberlain: "We need provisions. The men and Digidestineds need a meal and ammunitions. We're depleted."
Ra-Khan: "Right. See to Chamberlain's request."
Roy: "Come Tai, Ruuji, Ed, Kira, let us hear your stories."
Hancock: "Ok, Chamberlain, Negi sir, lets go for a walk."
Maj. Gen. Mustang goes to have a little chat with Tai, Ruuji and Ed to hear what they got throughout their adventures while Lt. Gen. Hancock walks to one place there with a nice view of Seminary Ridge with Chamberlain and Negi.
Hancock: "I hear you're both school teachers."
Negi: "I am."
Chamberlain: "Well that seemed a long time ago."
Hancock: "Sometimes I'm not sure how long I've been in this war. 3 months or 3 lifetimes. So sir Negi, how was it for you to become a teacher at that age? You must be a prodigy."
Negi: "Well, I guess I am, born with a high IQ and all, even though I'm not a coordinator."
Hancock: "Where do you come from?"
Negi: "From Wales, England."
Hancock: "What about you Chamberlain?"
Chamberlain: "From Brewer, Maine."
Hancock: "So, what do you both teach?"
Chamberlain: "Rhetoric and natural religion at Bowdoin College."
Negi: "I teach English and the homeroom teacher at Mahora Acedemy, an all girls school in Japan."
Hancock: "All girls school huh? You must be lucky. Now you tell me professors, can you recall a story from antiquity where 2 men who are best of friends, almost brothers, where these men find themselves by a trick of fate on opposing sides in a great war? Then on a given day, find themselves facing one another on the very same battlefield."
Chamberlain: "Well, if the Greeks did not tell a story, surely the Romans did."
Negi: "Well sir, I think it must be found in the Bible."
Hancock: "There isn't an officer on either side who hasn't know someone wearing the other uniform, I know that. This morning I look through my glass and saw the fluttering colors of the 9th and 14th Virginia regiments on those ridges before us, directly facing us over there. It was as if I could hear his voice, see his old crumpled hat."
Negi: "What do you mean?"
Hancock: "My friend Lewis Armistead commands one of Pickett's brigades and he's out there for sure. Somehow I thought this day would never come. I thought its just a conflict to end the Blue Cosmos' intentions that would take like 2 weeks. Its now 3 months, and 2 months since we're at war to stop Durandal's plans, how many more will it extend? Who could've dream it go on for more? What will you do Chamberlain? Negi? What do the books tell you to do?"
Chamberlain: "…"
Negi: "Even I have no idea sir."
Hancock: "Now you go rest up. Nothing's gonna happen today anyway. Everyone's too tired, too hot, too worn out, both sides."
Chamberlain: "Well, my unit's placed in reserve over there. Thank you sir."
They all salute each other and Chamberlain went somewhere to rest. Negi then goes to his girls. Meanwhile Tai, Ed and Ruuji tell their stories to Roy, Ra-Khan and all other generals there. They were impressed. After a while its time for them to need their rest and off they go.
Some time has passed and most have rested well. Suddenly, without warning... BOOM. Explosions unexpectedly rocks the whole lines. The Confederates are now firing all their artillery at them. 150 or 170 cannons, mortars and howitzers (tank form) all open fire. The Union were caught off guard and thrown into disarray. The Digidestineds immediately takes cover, luckily the shells cannot hit where they are.
Confederate shells bombard the center relentlessly, but made no damage, and it did not scare the Digidestineds away. The Union now returns fire with their artillery; some tanks and their super artillery weaponries, the Juggernaut (from C&C Tiberium Wars), Siege Tanks in siege mode (from Starcraft) and the Thor (from Starcraft 2). It is now a massive, epic artillery duel that lasted for some time.
The rebel cannon break the silence
150 guns make up their cannonade
They must destroy the Union center
Before the infantry can launch their grand assault
The Yankees are returning fire (The Earth Shakes Violently)
In Washington D.C. Lincoln feels the earth shake
What happens here this day
The fate of this nation
In the balance it will hang
Consumed with the pain
The courage of the blue
The valor of the grey
So very sad but true
Consumed with the pain
For Sora, she has some strategy in mind, but to no avail.
Sora: "Tai, if I could lead the flying Digimons, we can make an air strike and put their guns out of action."
Tai: "You could, but it seems that they got anti-air defenses placed there."
Izzy: "He's right. Making an air strike is out of the question. As of the moment, we have to wait till its over. I believe that infantry will then come."
Tai: "Yes. In the meantime Sora, make sure everyone's alright and that they're safe."
Sora: "Yes Tai, I'm on it."
Amidst the chaos, Gen. Hancock rode on horseback reviewing and encouraging the soldiers. An officer tries to pull him back by saying, "General, the corps commander ought not to risk his life that way." Hancock simply replied calmly along with confidence, "There are times when a corps commander's life does not count."
The same situation can be said for king Yoh and his young wife Anna. Both ride in the same horse throughout the turmoil. One his officers tries them to pull back.
Officer: "Your highness please get down. We cannot spare you."
Yoh: "There are times that even a king's life does not count."
Officer: "But sir..."
Anna: "Its alright. Got a problem with our choice?"
Officer: "...No ma'am."
Anna: "Then get our forces ready. And do be careful."
Yoh: "And call Morty to get ready for some action with the Digidestineds."
Officer: "Yes."
The artillery duel lasted for some time. The Confederate infantry and militia watches behind the trees of Seminary Ridge. Then it started to hit them as the Union's Juggernauts and 3 Thors start to over-shoot. There, Gen. Armistead watches from there, with Richard Garnett with horseback. Armistead insisted he should not go like that, making him an easy target, but is confident he can go. Meanwhile Longstreet and Alexander are discussing the situation.
Alexander: "We've been firing for a good while sir. It's apparent neither the Federals nor we are going to gain a clear advantage. If we continue to expend our ammunition at this rate we may endanger our ability to support the advance."
Longstreet: "Did you not have enough ordinance when this began?"
Alexander: "The Federal fire compelled us to remove the artillery train farther to the rear. It's taking us longer to refill the caissons. Sir we must slow our fire now or we will have to cut back on the guns sent in to support the infantry."
Longstreet: "Damn! I have to order Gen. Pickett to halt his attack until these guns get replenished."
Alexander: "The trains got little ammunition. It'll take an hour to redistribute it. Meanwhile the enemy would impound the top. The longer we delay the more the Federals have to strengthen their lines. And even if we recover more supplies from the ordinance train, how much damage can we inflict on them than they on us? They're bringing fresh batteries as quickly as we drove them off."
Longstreet: "Just get some available ammo and keep it hot. I cannot send Pickett's division or the others until we clear some of those guns off that ridge."
Alexander: "Yes sir, I'll try."
Alexander doesn't have much of a choice. The artillery goes on a little longer, then some time has passed already. And still, both sides don't seem to made any damage whatsoever. The Union are now strengthening their lines. Soon, the Confederate guns fell silent. The Union stops firing their Juggernauts, Siege Tanks and the 3 Thors. This could mean one thing, the Rebs are prepared to make their infantry advance. Kira, Tai, Ruuji, Edward and all the Digidestineds get themselves ready.
At the Confederate lines somewhere, Longstreet sits and waits until Pickett arrives.
Pickett: "Message from Alexander. 'Hurry up for God's sake or the artillery can't help you.' Your orders sir?"
Longstreet: "…"
Pickett: "General Longstreet, should I commence the attack?"
Longstreet: (Nods in assessment)
Pickett: "I shall lead my division forward sir."
And off he goes, leaving Longstreet with a look of defeat. He knew this attack will be in disaster now, and there's no hope in making a new strategy. All he could now is watch and pray for the best.
Pickett now announces the order and nearly 15,000 men as well as the infantry supporters such as their own Goliaths, Dragoons, Light Tanks and Gatling Tanks now assemble. They are now assembling, getting armed, fixing bayonets and in their lines and formation. Marching drums play as the beat rings throughout their place. When all is ready, everything is quiet. They are waiting for the order to charge. They said their prayers already.
All remaining FAITH members (probably less than 360) are part of the charge as well. Shinn, Rey, Lunamaria among a few FAITH members are part of Armistead's brigade.
Rey: "Ready Shinn?"
Shinn: "You bet."
Lunamaria: "You think we can do this? I mean, the Digidestineds are still there."
Shinn: "No worries. Now with this kind of assault, we are going to win for sure, and we can finally beat the Digidestineds for sure now."
Rey: "Right. It's time for them to pay, and also Kira Yamato for causing us too much trouble."
Then Pickett comes back on horseback, shouts to his men to raise their spirits. "Up men! Up, and to your posts! Let no one forget today that you are from ZAFT!!!"
The men cheered loudly at this as Pickett rode off. Armistead drew his sword and shouts to them, making preparations for the charge now.
"Everyone! Fellow comrades! For your lands, for your homes, for your sweethearts, for your honor! Forward…."
"……MARCH!!!"
The infantry, militia and infantry supporters now advance beyond their lines as they bravely march into the open field towards the Union center. For Shinn, Rey and Lunamaria, they march brimming with confidence and courage. Red flags wave in the wind, drums play to the melody of battle and bayonets shine in the sun. The attack called "Pickett-Pettigrew-Trimble Assault", or known in history as "Pickett's Charge", begins.
The Virginians are the chosen
In wait behind the trees on Seminary Ridge
Longstreet's slow to give the order
The lines emerge a mile, 15,000 Men
The charge begins in all it's grandeur
(To the Copse Of Trees)
For many of these men they know it is their last
At the Union lines, with everyone, both the infantry and Digidestineds ready and assembled, can hardly believe what they're seeing. An ocean of infantry along with infantry supporters now march in parade fashion towards them. As for our heroes, they're determined to make their stand to the end.
So now ends part one. Next is part 2, the final battle. Check it out. See our heroes fight in the epic battle ever! Will they survive? Can they win? Find out!
