Dimitri will recover, and this war will end soon. Japan has already lost, but they still continue to fight... Well, I'll simply inform them of their defeat. The Manchurian operation will finally crush the Japanese empire in China, and we will help form the ring of steel that strangles Japan into submission. First, we will eliminate the defenses in the countrysides, then we move on to our primary targets... Luckily, I found some old allies to help us in our endeavor to win.

'Reds Revisit'

Manchuria, China

August 12, 1945

Cpt. Viktor Reznov

2nd Red Banner Army

Manchuria, I had arrived just a few days ago, just before the punishing bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki... Now, as I stood a top a hill, I looked over the landscape of Northern China, just waiting eagerly to move out and fight the Japanese, to inflict wrath them the same as we did the Germans. Whether this is Stalin's goal or not, I will help free this country from the evil, genocidal oppression of the Imperial Japanese.

I surveyed the different jungles and long grass covered fields, even seeing houses of rich Chinese architecture in the distance. When I turned back behind me, I saw great numbers of Russian troops, armed to the teeth with PPSH guns, DP-28 guns, SVT-40 rifles and some even with PPS-42 guns. They were all battle ready and trained, and just as eager as I am to fight... I looked over them with the greatest pride, as it is an honor to lead these brave men into battle once more... As well as another comrade, the female Border Collie dog, Mischa... Dimitri had found her as a puppy under a tank at Kursk, now we had trained the highly intelligent dog to be a skilled and helpful sentry... And a close companion.

As Mischa sat next to me, looking up as I gave her a pet, that's when a hand was placed on my shoulder, and I looked over to see the hand coming from Mikhail Vylkalev, my new second in command. Dimitri needed to heal since Berlin, so as my closest friend stayed behind in a hospital, Vylkalev would step up to assume these new responsibilities. While we did have some friction, we seemed to work well together.

"...Captain Reznov," Vylkalev spoke, "the 'Hero of Berlin'."

"...So I am." I said casually.

"Will you be ready for this new campaign, Captain?"

"I'm ready, I'm ready to lead my men... And rid this new evil from the world."

"I know well you don't care for the Nazis, Viktor," Vylkalev said, "It seems you hate the Japs as well."

"The Imperial Japs, of course I hate them," I said in a correcting tone, "The Imperial Japanese are evil, they're brutal, genocidal murderers and cowards who have murdered tens of millions of innocents across China, and ravaged their homes... They're just as evil as the Nazis, and they well deserve every harsh, merciless punishment inflicted on them."

"Well it's good you see that," Vylkalev spoke, "I'm still waiting to see how you'll lead your men now that you are the overall commander... We'll see if you can erase my skepticism."

I looked at the compass presented in my hand, using it to point out directions, then I closed it and put it into my trench coat pocket. "I'll prove it... They're my men, so I'll prove it."

"And as I said, we will see," Vylkalev said, then he and I turned to the rest of the men, then Vylkalev spoke, "We are to be liberators of this country, the Chinese are our allies, so all the men under this command shall treat these people with merciful respect... The Japanese, however, are the enemy, a murderous enemy... So to them, you will be anything but merciful... You are honorable and disciplined soldiers of Russia, brave fighters, and you will show the cowardly Japanese the valor of the Red Army!"

This resulted in a great cheer from the soldiers, and then I spoke, "Brave Comrades, You have been given the honor of ridding the evil Japanese empire from this world... Charge forth, men, and rip their empire and their wretched soldiers to shreds!"

With that, as I held a PPSH gun and had a DP 28 gun across my back while Vylkalev held his own PPSH, we all readied our weapons and looked towards the lands before us, determined to move on... Then the whistles sounded and we were off... Vylkalev and I, both wielding PPSH guns, were leading the men in charging across the field, numerous Russian soldiers following after with loyal determination as several T-34 tanks rolled in as well, while Mischa rushed in at our side.

"Find and destroy any Japanese forces in our path!" Vylkalev spoke.

Vylkalev and I charged across the grasslands, Russian soldiers rushing in behind us as we braved through distant enemy machine gun fire that blazed over us... But the T-34 tanks moving in at our sides blazed rounds at the Japanese nests, letting us continue charging across the fields.

Several other distant enemy machine gun nests blazed constant fire, but as we soldiers fired shots back, the T-34 tanks fired shells that fended off the enemy nests, letting us move forward even further... We kept moving forward until we came to our first target, a field filled with enemy positions, trenches and machine gun nests, and so, we moved in to attack.

"Eliminate their positions, Comrades," Vylkalev ordered, "Send them all to Hell!"

"Burn and raze every one of them!" I shouted, furiously.

With me and Vylkalev leading them, the Russians charged forth, firing shots that raked the Japanese defenses as the T-34s stayed behind and blazed supportive shells. Still, as we charged and fired shots, the enemy soldiers blazed machine gun and rifle fire to try and fend us off... But we kept bravely facing the enemy shots raining over us and kept up our assault, firing rifle fire that riddled the enemy defenses. Mischa, meanwhile, jumped from cover to cover until she reached an enemy nest, pouncing and then mauling two Japanese soldiers, ripping their flesh with her sharp teeth.

"Spread out and use the terrain for cover," I ordered, "You men, give suppressing fire for the others... We'll send those svoloches to Hell!"

The Russians kept advancing with great determination, following my orders by spreading out and using different rocks, plants and foxholes for cover, then aiming and firing shots that raked and pinned Japanese soldiers in the different defenses, then I fired and shot two Japanese soldiers. With Vylkalev and I shooting some Japanese soldiers, however, enemy troops fired intense machine gun shots back that riddled numerous Russians. In response, I fired my PPSH and nailed four soldiers and then shot up a couple positions, then Vylkalev gunned a couple enemies down. As enemy gunshots rained over them rather heavily, Russian soldiers fired gunshots from their cover pieces that riddled several Japanese and shot up a few nests while I shot four more enemies with PPSH fire. However, the Japanese defenses kept firing shots that nailed multiple friendlies, so in response, I fired intense shots that furiously riddled Japanese positions, shooting a couple more positions to shreds as Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers, then the Russians fired intense rifle fire that shot multiple Japanese and shot up several different positions. As I gunned two more enemies down in a nest, the Japanese fired shots that nailed several friendlies, so I gunned two more soldiers down in a nest, then the Russians fired more shots that raked and pinned enemy positions. I shot four more soldiers as Vylkalev gunned a couple more enemies down, then I shot up another position.

"Slaughter these savage animals!" a Russian stated.

The Russians fired immense gunshots that riddled the Japanese nests and trenches, shooting multiple different enemies in the fierce fighting. I shot up a couple nests as Vylkalev gunned a few soldiers down, then I shot up four soldiers in a trench. A couple Banzai chargers started to rush in, but I simply aimed and gunned them down, then Vylkalev aimed and shot a couple more enemies. As I shot up a couple more positions, the Russians fired intense rifle fire that cut numerous Japanese soldiers to shreds in vicious fighting, then I shot up four more Japanese in a different trench line. We all fired and eliminated several more positions and trenches, with me shooting two more soldiers. Then, a midst the heavy fighting, Vylkalev shot a few more Japanese as I gunned two other soldiers down, letting us fight more nests in this field while Mischa tackled and mauled an enemy.

Vykalev and I kept fighting bravely against the Japanese defenses, with Russian soldiers firing immense cover shots that raked and pinned enemy troops in heavy intensity, with bullets raining and flying all over. Enemy gunshots still blazed, so I gunned down two more soldiers as Vylkaev fired and nailed several other Japanese, all while the Russians braved enemy gunshots and fired rifle fire that riddled multiple Japanese. As we kept on moving, Vylkalev and I fired shots that riddled some enemies in a trench, then the Russians fired gunfire that shot up several different nests. Some friendly soldiers were gunned down, but we kept braving past enemy shots, with me shooting two soldiers as Vylkalev gunned a few Japanese down, then I shot four more soldiers. The Russians fired gunfire that cut multiple Japanese down, then I shot two more enemies.

"Chyort... I'll kill you filthy Jap bastards!" a Russian shouted, firing his gun.

"Burn in Hell, you wretched svoloche!" another Russian soldier said.

As I shot two more soldiers, a couple of Russian soldiers lit and threw Molotov cocktails at Japanese nests, splashing flames that burned away several Japanese soldiers, then I gunned two more enemies down. Vylkalev shot up a nest as I rushed at two Japanese soldiers an slashed them down with my knife, then I aimed and gunned another soldier down as the Russians fired shots that riddled numerous Japanese to bloody shreds, some friendly bullets ripping off limbs and pieces of flesh. I fired and shot four more soldiers as Vylkalev gunned down a couple more enemies as well, then I aimed and shot two more soldiers. With the Russians firing gunfire that shot up several more positions and a trench to pieces, the enemy defenses were clearing up even more. Still, enemy soldiers remained and kept blazing shots to fend us off, but Vylkalev shot a few more soldiers as I shot up and destroyed a few more positions, then as they braved past enemy shots, the Russians fired intense hails of gunfire that riddled and shot numerous more Japanese to shreds, furiously cutting them down. I then shot four more remaining soldiers as Vylkalev and the Russians fired and shot up the last several remaining enemy nests and trenches as I gunned two more soldiers down... The enemy defenses were destroyed.

"We've won, Comrades," Vylkalev shouted, "Move and crush any more who dare to resist!"

"These filthy svoloches will be crushed by the might of the Red Army!" I said with fervor.

Our enemies defeated here, we moved across the terrain, leaving the burned and charred enemy defenses behind as we made our way towards a ridge. Eventually, our forces separated, with Vylkalev and I leading most of the infantry through a different pathway as the tanks veered off towards another field with some soldiers... Strangely, as we came closer, we started hearing sounds of bullets whistling nearby.

"There must be allies nearby," Vylkalev spoke, "Let's find and assist them."

With that, we came over towards the ridge, Vylkalev and I looking over to see what the commotion was about... Indeed, it was quite a chaotic, and rather surprising sight we found ourselves looking upon.

We looked over and saw a trench line filled with Japanese infantry firing rifle shots at an opposing trench... However, as I looked over, I saw the other trench did not contain Russians. Instead they contained a different battle hardened ally. These soldiers lining the other trench and firing rifle shots back at the Japanese trench, I saw had tan uniforms, some wearing backpacks, ammunition pouches or bandoliers, while all were wielding and firing Kar 98k rifles, Thompson guns and Vz. 26 machine guns. Most significantly, most of these friendly soldiers, most with mustaches, wore German stahlhelm helmets while some others wore tan field caps... And they each bore the insignia of the blue circle with the white sun... They were Chinese soldiers.

"Look, Chinese soldiers," Vylkalev pointed out, "We need to help them."

The Chinese and Japanese trenches fired hails of gunfire at each other, shooting each other' different soldiers and raking pieces off the other's trench positions. The line of Chinese fired intense gunfire from the trench and shot up numerous Japanese and shot up their positions in the opposing trench, while the Japanese trench fired shots back that nailed multiple Chinese n their trench, and the two sides just kept firing heavily at each other's sides. When we came near the two trenches firing hails of rifle fire at one another, Vylkalev and I fired shots that nailed some soldiers in the Japanese trench as the Russians fired intense cover that raked the enemy trench line. A midst the fierce fighting, the line of Chinese infantry fired intense gunfire that shot multiple Japanese in the other trench while I shot several soldiers. Suddenly, I saw a young Chinese soldier come rush in near me, aim a scoped Kar 98k rifle at the enemy trench and fire shots that skillfully nailed several Japanese in the trench, further causing bewilderment for the enemy. Japanese gunshots from the trench gunned numerous Chinese down in the other trench, but as I fired shot to cover them, the Chinese fired hails of gunfire back and shot multiple Japanese in the opposing trench while braving enemy gunshots. Vylkalev and I kept firing cover shots as the Russians fired some shots that nailed more and more enemies, then the line of Chinese fired immense gunfire that shot numerous more Japanese.

Eventually, we kept firing until we eliminated the last of the Japanese here... We had won, "Cease fire," I ordered, "The svoloches are finished!"

With the enemies gone, the Russians and I walked over to meet with the Chinese soldiers, who came out of the trench to greet all of us. I looked over the Chinese troops, who were seeming weary, understandable due to their serving eight years of war, but still, they all appeared to be strong and capable fighters, and they looked grateful for our help. One Chinese soldier, their leader, walked over to me and Vylkalev.

This Chinese officer was thin, yet fit and six foot tall, wearing a stahlhelm and a single bandolier over his typical uniform, though not much else. He had a somewhat aged face and a mustache, and the funny thing is, as I looked over his face, I actually recognized this man... Captain Chen Li-Jin.

"Viktor Reznov," Chen spoke with a proud smile as he graciously shook my hand, "My very good friend, It is wonderful to see you again... I've been worrying about you since we met at Nomonhan."

"As with you, my friend," I responded with a joyful smile to see my comrade again, "You've handled yourself well over these years... This is my second in command, Lieutenant Mikhail Vylkalev, who's been at my side since Kharkov."

"Well I am very happy for your help, from all of you," Chen stated, "Welcome to China, my friends... The Generalissimo may not trust you, Communists... But I say, anyone willing to kill Japs is welcome among my forces."

That's when another Chinese soldier came up next to Chen, the sniper who assisted us, in which she revealed herself as a young woman in her twenties giving us a gracious smile. Chen then introduced her, "Viktor, this is Mei Lin, my right hand."

I looked over Chen's Lieutenant, Mei Lin. She was actually a very beautiful young, tan woman with pretty thin eyes and her black hair shaped in a hime cut, presenting full bangs covering her forehead while the rest of her hair was tied up in a braided ponytail. She had a thin face and a slender figure while standing at medium height, a bit shorter than me... Her uniform somewhat resembled a KMT soldier, as instead of the typical Zhongshan suit, she wore a tan worker's jumpsuit, a KMT soldier's jacket, which she left unbuttoned and the sleeves rolled up to her elbows, a grey scarf around her neck, finger less gloves, standard army boots and a belt which presented ammo pouches... While in battle, she wore a German M35 Stahlhelm on her head, and as her secondary weapon, an M1928 Thompson gun, was slung across her back, her hands presented her primary weapon, a scoped Karabiner 98k rifle.

Once she removed her helmet from her head, she looked up at me, giving me a very warm smile... I could tell from this that she had a very kind, friendly and helpful persona, while still a brave and skilled fighter.

"I assure you, she's very skilled," Chen said, "She will assist us greatly."

"Well, you know I have the highest expectations." I said.

"And she will live up to them," Chen responded, "We all will... Now what are we waiting for, let us find some of those Japanese pigs for us to kill."

With that we all started rushing down the grasslands to engage further Japanese forces and start clearing them out of Manchuria. We moved through the different fields and jungles and then we came upon some pathways... And Chen had an idea there.

"We're coming up to some Japanese defenses," Chen spoke, "That path to the right lead to ridges that could provide perfect covering fire... Viktor, if you could take your men up there, you can give good cover with successive attacks in a pincer move as I lead an assault through the front."

"Are you sure of this, Chen?" I asked, concerned.

"My men can handle this," Chen responded reassuringly, with a calm hand on my shoulder, "We will be fine, especially with your help."

"Come on, Reznov," Vylkalev said, "Let's get going."

Chen lead his Chinese forces across the field before us, while Vylkalev and I lead the Russians up the pathway leading to the ridges, with Mischa following after. As we moved up, we started seeing Japanese defenses on the grounds below... Hopefully, this would work out, but we would give our best effort nevertheless.

Vylkalev and I lead the Russian troops up onto the ridges to the right as Chen and Lin lead the Chinese forces across the field. I wielded my DP-28 gun as we moved up through the elevated ground, with Russians lining the ridges here, then we all took positions as we gazed down on the fields just before us. We saw a Japanese trench line, filled with Japanese riflemen and machine gunners. As we Russians aimed our guns at the Japanese defenses from the elevated ridges, we saw the Chinese forces moving into the field... Then we struck.

"Fire," I shouted, "Burn these svoloches!"

"Die, you Jap bastards!" a Russian said, firing his gun.

The Chinese were immediately rushing the field before us from the left, firing rifle shots at the enemy line as they charged while the Japanese rained hails of gunshots on the Chinese forces. However, we Russians fired gunfire from the higher up ridge to the right side of the field, firing cover shots that raked the enemy trench and shot multiple Japanese defenders. The Japanese kept firing immense hails of gunfire at the charging Chinese, shooting multiple Chinese soldiers to pieces while raking and pinning some others. I fired my DP gun and shot six Japanese in the trench as Vylkalev gunned a few others down, though the Japanese kept firing gunfire that cut numerous more Chinese to shreds, some powerful bullets ripping off limbs and pieces of flesh from some Chinese friendlies. A midst the vicious fighting, I fired and shot five more enemies with DP fire as the Russians fired cover shots that nailed several more enemies, then Vylkalev gunned a few others down. The Japanese fired more gunfire that shot numerous Chinese in the field, but the Chinese soldiers took cover in the field and fired shots back that raked the trench and shot multiple Japanese soldiers in return. As the Chinese fired shots that raked and pinned Japanese trench defenders, I gunned two more soldiers down as well.

The Chinese kept charging across the field, firing rifle shots that raked the enemy trench and shot several Japanese. In the hard, fierce fighting, the Russians fired cover shots from our ridge positions that furiously riddled the Japanese trench, shooting several more enemies and further diminishing their defenses. However, while the Chinese were charging the field and firing rifle shots at the Japanese trench, the enemies kept firing gunfire that cut multiple Chinese to pieces. Vylkalev and I fired cover shots that raked and pinned enemies as the Russians fired and shot multiple enemy trench defenders. I shot five more Japanese as Vylkalev gunned several soldiers down, though the Japanese fired hails of gunfire that nailed multiple Chinese in the field. Chen and Lin fired gunfire that shot multiple enemies in the vicious battle, and as the Russians shot several more enemies with cover fire, the Chinese moved up and shot numerous Japanese in the trench as I gunned two others down.

"Cover Chen and eliminate the trench!" Vylkalev spoke.

As we Russians kept firing cover shots at the enemy line, the Chinese kept rushing at the trench, firing rifle shots that riddled the trench and shot some more enemies. Vylkalev and I fired intense cover shots that raked the Japanese trench as the Japanese fired gunshots that cut numerous Chinese down, though the Russians blazed cover that struck several enemies in return. With Chen and Lin firing gunshots from their field positions and shooting some more enemies, the enemy defense dwindled severely, though some remaining Japanese held on, firing shots that cut multiple Chinese to shreds... However, as we kept firing cover that raked the trench, the Chinese fired rifle shots that nailed multiple enemies, leaving only several Japanese remaining... The Chinese rushed in and finished them off with their fists and bayonets.

However, as the Chinese soldiers lined their new trench line and aimed their guns at the field before them, Japanese forces came in to try and retake it, which Mischa barked at to help alert us towards... So we Russians and Chinese immediately fired gunfire to fend them off.

"Shit, Japanese soldiers incoming!" a Russian said.

"Chyort, keep firing," a Russian shouted, "Rip these Jap bastards to shreds!"

A vicious battle ensued as the line of Chinese fired immense gunfire from their new trench and shot multiple incoming Japanese in the opposing field, while we Russians kept firing cover shots at the enemies from our elevated ridge positions. With the Chinese firing fiery hails of gunfire that cut multiple more Japanese to shreds in the vicious, hard fighting, I fired and shot five enemies with my DP gun as Vylkalev gunned several soldiers with his PPSH, then I kept firing DP fire that nailed six more Japanese in the field as the line of Chinese soldiers kept firing intense rifle fire from their trench and shot numerous incoming Japanese in the field. While I fired cover shots, Vylkalev gunned a few other soldiers down and then the Russians fired gunshots that raked and pinned some Japanese in the field below, then I shot five more enemies with DP fire. With us Russians raining furious cover shots on the Japanese, the Chinese fired intense gunfire from the trench line and shot multiple Japanese in the field, then as Vylkalev and I fired cover, the Russians blazed shots that nailed several other enemies as the Chinese fired more hails of gunfire that shot multiple Japanese.

The Chinese soldiers kept fighting hard in the fierce battle as we Russians bravely covered them from the ridge to the side against the incoming Japanese forces. Chen and Lin fired shots from the trench that raked enemy soldiers while I fired DP fire and nailed five Japanese, then the Russians fired cover shots that tore multiple enemies to pieces. Vylkalev shot a few other enemies, but as the Chinese kept fighting and firing rifle shots that raked and pinned Japanese soldiers, some enemies blazed shots back and struck several Chinese in the trench. In response, I fired and shot five more enemies as the Chinese fired gunfire that cut multiple Japanese to shreds, some bullets ripping off limbs and flesh pieces from enemies. Vylkalev gunned a few soldiers down as the Russians fired shots from our ridge that nailed multiple enemies. In the vicious fighting, I fired DP fire that shot six enemies as the Chinese kept firing rifle fire that shot numerous Japanese as well as Vylkalev and I fired cover shots.

With us fighting hard to fend off the Japanese assaults, we were seeing that the enemy force was beginning to dwindle... So, we kept up the defense to destroy them completely. With the Chinese firing rifle shots from their trench and shooting more soldiers while raking and pinning some enemies with gunshots, I fired intense cover fire that riddled multiple Japanese in the field, while Vylkalev fired cover shots as well. Though more Japanese kept charging in and firing their rifles, the Russians fired gunshots that nailed multiple enemies as I fired and shot six more Japanese with DP fire, then the line Chinese infantry in the trench fired hails of immense gunfire that cut numerous Japanese to shreds... Eventually, the enemy troops were diminished by our firepower, sending them into retreat, and showing we had won here... Now it was off to the next target.

"Move up and raze any of these savage animals!" I shouted.

"We'll burn all those wretched Jap svoloches!" a Russian stated.

As the Chinese moved across the grasslands, Vylkalev and I made our way across this elevated ridge to provide cover for Chen and his troops. As we moved up, we ultimately found ourselves staring down at a new set of Japanese defenses below us from the ridge. I saw numerous different enemy positions, filled with riflemen and machine guns waiting to fend off any attack.

"Take position and get ready to attack, Comrades." Vylkalev stated.

With us all aiming our guns at the Japanese positions below, we waited, just until Chen and his forces made their assault on the enemy positions, starting a fierce skirmish... and just as the Chinese and Japanese guns were firing, we Russians all fired cover at enemies from our new ridge.

"Fire," I shouted, firing my gun, "Kill these filthy Jap bastards!"

I fired intense gunfire that shot up different enemy positions, with me shooting multiple Japanese soldiers in those positions with DP shots. As the Russians rained gunfire down on the Japanese positions, the Chen bravely lead his Chinese forces in assaulting the enemy nests, with Chinese soldiers firing rifle fire that raked enemy positions and shooting up Japanese soldiers. However, the Japanese positions fired gunfire back and shot multiple Chinese, with a few machine guns even blazing towards our Russian posts. In response, Vylkalev and I fired shots back that raked the enemy positions, with me gunning two soldiers down and then aiming and shooting a machine gunner, then I shot up a position. Though the Japanese fired shots that cut numerous Chinese down, the Russians fired furious cover shots that riddled the enemy nests, then the Chinese fired intense gunfire that shot numerous Japanese and riddled different positions to pieces. As I gunned two more soldiers down and then shot up a machine gunner, Vylkalev then shot several more soldiers with PPSH shots. Japanese soldiers fired gunfire from their positions and shot some more Chinese, but I shot up a couple more positions as the Chinese fired gunfire that nailed multiple Japanese and shot up several positions while I fired and shot five more Japanese.

The Japanese soldiers kept firing shots that raked and pinned Chinese troops, with a few enemy machine gunners blazing towards our Russian positions. In response, the Russians furiously fired intense gunshots that fiercely raked the Japanese positions, shooting up several nests while I aimed and shot a machine gunner blazing toward my comrades. The Chinese fired more intense gunfire that shot multiple Japanese soldiers, then fired shots that riddled and destroyed different positions. I shot up a position as Vylkalev fired and nailed a few more enemies, then I shot another machine gunner. More Japanese positions were furiously shot up and destroyed, further diminishing the enemy defenses as I shot up a couple more infantry positions. As the Japanese fired gunshots that nailed multiple Chinese, Chen and Lin fired shots that destroyed several more positions, then I shot five more Japanese soldiers and then gunned down another machine gunner blazing for us. Vylkalev gunned a few other soldiers down as I shot two soldiers, then the Russians fired shots that riddled several more positions. As I fired and shot five more soldiers, the Chinese fired intense rifle fire that shot numerous Japanese and destroyed several remaining positions, then I shot a couple more positions to pieces.

"Eliminate these wretched svoloches!" a Russian shouted.

"Burn in Hell, you animal!" another Russian said.

After much hard fighting, with us Russians bravely firing cover shot at the Japanese, the Chinese finally destroyed the remaining enemy positions. The Chinese forces then tarted moving on further, with Chen leading them with furious passion.

"Forward, men," Chen spoke, "Drive and rid these devils from our lands!"

Immediately, Vylkalev and I lead our Russian soldiers across the ridge to continue fighting the Japanese defenses in the area, allowing the Chinese to assault and overrun them... Eventually, this field would be cleared of enemy forces, so that we could move further inland.

Moving along the ridge, we came upon a new area overlooking a second Japanese defensive line. With us Russians taking positions on this new ridge, we aimed at the enemy line, just waiting to strike... And as the Chinese forces began to move onto the field, we opened fire.

"I'll kill those Jap bastards!" a Russian shouted, firing his gun.

"Shit... Die, you animals!" another Russian said.

We Russians all fired shots from our ridge positions and shot up the second trench, pinning the enemy defenders. With me gunning two soldiers down, as we kept firing cover shots, Chen and Lin lead their Chinese forces into the field, having them assault the second Japanese trench line. Fierce fighting raged on as I fired and shot five more enemies in the trench from this ridge, then Vylkalev gunned a few other soldiers down. The Russians fired cover shots from our ridge positions and shot multiple enemies in the trench while Chinese kept charging and firing rifle shots at the enemy line. However, the Japanese fired gunfire that cut numerous Chinese down while enemy rifle shots and machine gun fire kept raking and pinning other Chinese and forcing them to cover. I shot two more enemies as the Chinese held positions in the field and fired intense rifle fire that nailed several Japanese, then I gunned two more soldiers down as Vylkalev shot several more enemies. A midst the fiery battle, the Japanese kept firing shots that cut numerous Chinese down, enemy machine guns blazing and ripping several Chinese soldiers to bloody, fleshy pieces, but I fired DP fire and shot five more enemies while the Russian soldiers fired cover shots and gunned several more Japanese down.

The friendly Chinese forces kept bravely charging the field, pressing on past furious enemy machine gun fire that rained all over them. However, we Russians kept firing cover shots from this elevated ridge that riddled Japanese soldiers and positions, helping the friendly Chinese assault move forward. I fired and shot six more Japanese with DP gunfire from the ridge as Chen and Lin fired gunshots from their field positions and riddled some enemies in their opposing trench, then Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers as well. In the vicious fighting, the Chinese fired intense rifle fire that nailed multiple Japanese, and then we Russians fired more gunshots that nailed some other Japanese soldiers, and soon, the enemy defenses were dwindling greatly. Still, they held on, with Japanese soldiers firing gunfire that cut numerous Chinese down, but I responded by firing and shooting five Japanese in the trench, then Vylkalev and the Russians fired cover shots from our ridge that raked multiple enemies. As the Chinese fired rifle fire and shot multiple enemies in the trench, the Japanese defense became severely diminished.

"I'll burn you Jap svoloches!" a Russian shouted while firing from this ridge.

"Move up, take the trench line!" Chen ordered to his soldiers.

With Chen and Lin leading the charge, the Chinese rushed the trench, clearing away the defenders, and then seizing the formerly enemy line for themselves... And as the Chinese lined the trench and aimed their guns, more Japanese reinforcements came in to confront them.

"Men, turn their weapons against them," Chen spoke, "Slice those savages!"

The Chinese infantry fired hails of intense gunfire from their trench line and shot numerous Japanese to pieces, with some bullets slicing off limbs, then I gunned two enemies down as Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers, then I shot two more soldiers. While the Chinese fired rifle fire that raked and pinned incoming Japanese forces, we Russians fired some shots from our ridge line, furiously riddling Japanese soldiers coming at the new Chinese trench line. With the Russians firing cover shots and the line of Chinese soldiers firing intense gunfire from the trench line and shooting multiple Japanese in vicious fighting, I fired DP gunfire that shot six enemies as Vylkalev gunned a few Japanese down with his PPSH, then the Russians fired shots from our ridge that nailed some enemies. A midst the fierce fighting, I gunned two more enemies down as the Chinese line fired intense gunfire that cut numerous more Japanese to bloody pieces, then I gunned two other soldiers down as well.

The vicious battle raged as we kept bravely fighting the Japanese assaults, with Russian soldiers firing cover shots from our ridge and shooting some more enemies down while the Chinese fired immense gunfire that cut multiple Japanese to pieces. Vylkalev and I fired cover shots that furiously raked the Japanese soldiers charging at the Chinese line, though enemy soldiers fired shots back and gunned several Chinese friendlies down in the trench. I shot five more Japanese as Vylkalev fired and nailed several more enemies, all while the Russian and Chinese soldiers kept firing shots that riddled more Japanese infantry. As I gunned two enemies down, the Japanese fired rifle shots that nailed multiple Chinese, but I fired intense DP fire that shot five more enemies. The Chinese fired immense gunfire that shot numerous Japanese as Vylkalev and I fired furious gunshots at incoming Japanese forces, but as the Russians fired immense cover shots for them, the line of Chinese fired intense gunfire that cut multiple enemies to shreds.

Fighting raged on, but we saw the Japanese offense beginning to diminish greatly, so we all kept blazing shots even as the enemy assault continued to press forward. I gunned two soldiers down while Vylkalev shot a few enemies, then I fired DP gunfire and nailed six more Japanese. The Chinese fired intense shots that cut multiple enemies down, then the Russians blazed cover that raked some more Japanese as I gunned two others down. However, as we kept firing shots at them, the Japanese fired back and shot several Chinese as well. In return, I fired and shot five more Japanese as Vylkalev shot several other soldiers, then I gunned two more enemies down. With us Russians firing cover, the Chinese fired hails of fiery gunfire that shot numerous more Japanese... And after much hard fighting, we finally destroyed the Japanese assaults and secured our victory.

"Reznov," Chen called over to us, "We'll move across here and strike the village, will you be able to keep moving along the ridge?"

"Come on, Viktor," Vylkalev said, "Let's get near that village."

While Chen and Lin lead their Chinese forces across the fields towards this village, Vylkalev and I continued to have our Russian troops move along the ridge, going through a pathway as we came upon some grasslands with different mounds, rocks and plants.

Here, however, we found a new obstacle in the form of enemy machine gun nests and a couple of Type 97 Chi Ha tanks down the terrain, all awaiting to just try and stop us... Well as I took out my PPSH, we went to deal away with this obstacle so we could move on.

"You men, stay behind cover," I ordered, "Give suppressing fire as we move to raze those wretched svoloches!"

"Our own tanks are still tied up... How will we destroy those damned tanks, Viktor?!" Vylkalev wondered.

"I will find a way, Mikhail.' I answered.

With some Russians following me and Vylkalev as we started moving to closer cover pieces, the other Russians held positions by rocks, plants and mounds, firing different rifle shots at enemy soldiers and positions. As the other Russians fired cover shots at Japanese nests for us, I fired my PPSH and shot two soldiers, but enemy machine guns blazed wildly, raking several friendly positions. In response, Vylkalev and I fired wild furious PPSH fire that riddled Japanese soldiers and positions, fiercely raking and pinning enemies, then I aimed and shot a machine gunner blazing at us. While Vylkalev gunned a couple enemies down, I fired and shot four more Japanese, then the other Russians fired immense gunfire that furiously raked and pinned Japanese soldiers and positions, shooting numerous enemies to shreds. However, enemy machine guns still blazed rather desperately, holding their own as Vylkalev and I jumped to new positions closer toward the enemy tanks, which fired shells at friendly posts. I gunned two enemies down as Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers, then I fired and nailed four more Japanese. As they braved incoming enemy shots raining over them, the Russians fired shots that riddled multiple enemies, then as I dodged a volley, I shot another machine gunner.

The fierce skirmish raged on as the enemy tanks kept blazing shells at friendly positions, with enemy machine guns firing shots at them as well. I fired PPSH shots that nailed four more enemies as Vylkalev gunned a few others down, then I shot up another machine gun nest. We were beginning to clear away the last of the enemies here now, with Russians firing intense rifle fire at Japanese defenses, furiously raking them, then I shot up another nest before rushing over into it to take cover... And as the enemy tanks loomed over, to my apparent luck, I noticed mortar shells in this nest. Taking a shell, I primed it and then threw it at one of the tanks, damaging it. I then quickly primed another shell and threw it, finally destroying the tank just as it blazed a shell near me. Vylkalev fired cover shots that raked a couple nests as I aimed and shot another machine gunner blazing at me. The other tank started to aim towards me as I shot two soldiers, then I dodged a tank shell and a volley of machine gun fire as I aimed and gunned two more enemies down. With that, I grabbed a shell and threw it to damage the tank, then I dodged another tank round blasting bits near me as I primed and threw another shell, destroying the last tank. Vylkalev gunned a couple more soldiers down as I then shot up a machine gun nest.

"That's the end for you!" a Russian said to the enemy.

"You were on the wrong side!" another Russian soldier said to the enemy.

After some more fighting, with Mischa charging, pinning and ripping at a Japanese soldier with her teeth, we finally eliminated the last of the enemy defenses here. A Banzai charger came at me, but I grabbed his rifle with one hand and then I punched him with my other fist, then I stabbed him with my knife to finish him off.

I then lit a Molotov cocktail and threw it at an enemy nest, smashing an spraying fire that incinerated a few Japanese and then we moved on, further down the terrain. As we moved up further down, we started to see come to some trees, and past them, we could spot the village just beyond, where Chen and his troops would be.

"Chen should be there right now." Vylkalev said.

"Excellent," I responded, "We'll be just as ready to help them fight."

"Then we can move on to the supply camp."

"As soon as we take the village, of course we will."

"Let's see if you'll be up for it, Viktor."

"You know that I am." I said, brandishing my DP-28 gun.

We all entered the trees lining another ridge. Vylkalev and I lined our Russian soldiers along these trees while looking at the village before us that was filled with Japanese troops. Chen's Chinese forces were already at the perimeter, fiercely battling Japanese enemies in the village outskirts.

"Attack, men," Chen ordered, "Strike the village!"

"Cover them, Reznov!" Vylkalev said.

In a vicious skirmish, the Chinese fired intense rifle fire that shot numerous Japanese soldiers in the streets and houses in the outskirts of the village, while Chinese soldiers kept firing shots that raked and pinned more enemy positions and soldiers. However, Japanese soldiers fired rifle shots and machine gun fire from the houses that cut multiple Chinese to pieces, but we Russians fired gunshots that riddled the Japanese positions, covering our allies, and letting the Chinese fire intense gunfire that shot multiple Japanese in the village outskirts in fierce fighting. Enemy gunshots still rained over the Chinese from the houses, but I fired DP gunfire that shot six Japanese as the Chinese braved the enemy shots and fired rifle fire back that riddled the Japanese positions. Vylkalev shot several enemies as I fired and nailed five more Japanese, but the Japanese fired more shots from the houses and streets and shot numerous Chinese on the perimeter. Still, the Russians kept firing cover shots that raked several enemies in the houses, with Vylkalev shooting a few more soldiers as I shot five other Japanese with DP fire. In the vicious fighting, the Chinese kept firing intense gunfire that shot multiple Japanese soldiers and riddled enemy positions as Vylkalev and I fired cover shots at enemy house positions.

I kept firing shots that riddled Japanese positions in the outskirt houses, and the fierce skirmish raged furiously as the Chinese on the perimeter kept braving enemy shots and firing rifle fire that shot numerous Japanese in the houses and outskirt streets. The Japanese still fired heavy gunshots that raked and pinned Chinese positions, but we Russians fired hails of cover fire that riddled the Japanese positions and shot multiple enemies. With this, as I fired and shot six enemies, the Chinese fired intense gunfire that riddled and destroyed different Japanese positions in the village perimeter. Even though the outside village defense wore down, enemy soldiers still held on, firing shots that gunned multiple Chinese friendlies down. Still, Vylkalev shot several more soldiers as I fired and nailed five enemies, then the Russians fired shots that riddled several more positions to pieces. Eventually, after hard, vicious fighting, the Chinese fired shots that nailed multiple Japanese and destroyed several positions, finally breaking the perimeter defenses. Chen then lead his Chinese forces into the village, fighting any Japanese resistance in the streets and house deeper in.

We Russians still fired cover shots from our tree positions, shooting any Japanese soldier in the village trying to fend off the Chinese assault. In a vicious battle, Chinese soldiers fired rifle fire from their street positions in the village and shot numerous Japanese in the houses and streets surrounding them, all while braving the enemy gunshots raining over them. I gunned two soldiers down in a house as the Chinese fired rifle fire from their street positions and shot multiple enemies in different houses, then I shot two others in another house as the Chinese battled Japanese soldiers in the different streets, firing shots from their street positions and shooting numerous enemies at the other end of the streets. In fierce fighting, I fired and shot five enemies in a couple houses as the Chinese fired gunfire that riddled more Japanese in the houses and streets.

After much hard fighting, the Chinese had cleared away enemy resistance in over half the village. Russians soldiers still blazed cover from the trees and raked enemies with devastating effect. As enemy gunshots rained around them, the Chinese fired and shot more enemies in the different houses surrounding them, but more Japanese appeared in the streets and fired at Chinese troops. However, in fierce fighting, the Chinese fired rifle fire from their street positions and shot multiple Japanese at the other end of the street, eliminating them in fierce street fighting. As I gunned two more down in a house, Vylkalev and the Russians shot up several more enemy positions. The Chinese then fired shots that nailed more enemies in the houses as I shot two more soldiers in a house, then the Chinese fired and shot multiple Japanese in the streets, just nearly seizing the villa.

"Move forward, everyone," Chen spoke, "To victory!"

After much hard fighting, the Chinese fired gunfire that riddled the remaining Japanese troops in the village houses and streets, finally securing the village from the enemy... Now we just had to eliminate the remaining Japanese forces in the area, so we all started to move on even further, with Mischa running at our side to assist.

Chen and Lin lead their Chinese troops down a different pathway as I brandished my PPSH gun then Vylkalev and I were leading our Russian soldiers through different pathways and jungles. As we moved through some trees and paths, we came upon Japanese infantry and positions stationed here.

"Japanese nests," Vylkalev stated, "Raze them!"

Vylkalev and I fired cover shots as the Russian soldiers with us all fired intense rifle fire that shot multiple Japanese in the trees of this jungle. I gunned two enemies down as Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers, then I shot up a position, though enemy soldiers fired and gunned several friendlies down. In response, I fired and shot four Japanese as Vylkalev shot up several more enemies, then I gunned two other soldiers down by a tree to the right. With the Russians firing shots that raked and pinned Japanese soldiers in this jungle, I shot up another position, but enemy soldiers fired and shot several Russians. In response, I gunned two more soldiers down to the left while Vylkalev shot a couple other soldiers, then I fired and nailed four more enemies in the fierce skirmish. Russians soldiers fired intense rifle fire and shot numerous Japanese in this jungle battle, while still firing shots that riddled enemy positions, then I gunned down two other soldiers by a tree before shooting up another position. As we kept braving enemy shots, Vylkalev and I fired intense cover that raked enemy positions, then the Russians fired rifle fire that cut several Japanese down.

The Russians kept bravely following from behind with sheer determination to rid the last of the enemy defenses in this jungle, for as this skirmish raged on, we had cleared most of the enemies away. Some Japanese soldiers tried to retreat, but we gunned several of them down while still fighting the remaining enemy nests. The Japanese positions still fired shots to try and fend us off, but we persisted fiercely, with Russians firing more gunfire to shoot up and destroy several more positions, with me gunning two soldiers down by a tree to the right, then Vylkalev shot a few other soldiers with his PPSH as I shot up another position. The Russians fired intense gunfire that riddled multiple enemies to shreds as I fired and shot four more Japanese by some trees, then Vylkalev gunned a couple soldiers down as I shot two more enemies to the left. As the Russians fired gunshots that raked and cut up a few remaining nests, I fired and shot up another position, leaving only some soldiers to contend with.

"Burn those savage rats," I shouted, firing my gun, "Send all these filthy animals to Hell!"

Vylkalev and I fired furious PPSH gunfire that cut several Japanese down, then I charged and slashed another Japanese soldier with my knife as the other Russians fired intense cover shots from their tree positions that riddled the remaining enemies, finally clearing our way to the camp.

With that, We moved past these destroyed enemy posts and continued on the pathway, leading closer towards this supply camp, where we would finally destroy the last of the enemy presence in this area... And finally let us rest.

"The Japanese supply camp should be just near here." Vylkalev spoke.

"Great, they will also burn." I stated

"Chen will help cover our assault." Vylkalev said.

Once we had finished off the enemy defenses, we made our way towards the final objective, a Japanese supply camp, filled with tents, supply holds, crates and infantry armed with Arisaka rifles, Type 100 guns and Type 99 machine guns. I saw Chen's forces positioning themselves at the perimeter of the camp, preparing to cover our advance... Now it was my turn to lead an assault.

"Comrades," I shouted, holding my PPSH, "Charge!"

I lead my Russians in charging the enemy camp in a furious assault, and soon, a fierce skirmish ensued as we all started firing our guns. The Chinese soldiers fired intense cover shots that ripped through the tents in the enemy camp, then I fired PPSH shots that nailed seven Japanese in the camp. We braved past incoming Japanese gunshots and then Russian soldiers fired rifle fire that shot multiple enemies in the hard fighting. Vylkalev and I fired intense PPSH fire that shot multiple Japanese by the camp as the Russians kept firing gunfire that shot numerous more enemies within the camp as well, shooting up their positions. Enemy soldiers fired back and gunned several friendlies down, but as the Chinese fired cover shots that riddled numerous enemy soldiers, we Russians fired shots back that nailed multiple enemies as well. As Vylkalev fired and shot several soldiers, I fired PPSH fire that shot six Japanese, then we moved closer. The enemies kept blazing rounds, but we braved through them and then I fired and shot multiple Japanese as Vylkalev gunned a few others down, then the Russians fired and shot more enemies in the tents as Mischa emerged from behind cover, charged and then furiously mauled two more Japanese soldiers in the fierce skirmish.

We entered the camp and kept fighting fiercely to crush the Japanese resistance, shooting at enemy soldiers all over. Russian soldiers fired and shot up a few tents as I fired PPSH fire that shot nine Japanese soldiers in the camp, then Vylkalev fired and nailed several soldiers. A midst the fierce fighting, a Russian soldier charged and tackled a Japanese soldier and started beating the pinned enemy with his fists, then I shot up a couple tents as some other Russians fired and gunned multiple other Japanese down. We soon came up to the first supply hold, and Vylkalev got to work placing a charge on it, all while I covered him, firing and shooting six more Japanese coming into the camp. After some fierce fighting, I gunned down a Banzai charger and then Vylkalev finished up the charge, getting us to cover as it blew the supply hold to bits, and leaving one more left.

I kept fighting and firing shots at enemies in the tents, gunning down five Japanese and then shooting up another supply tent. Though enemy gunshots blazed and struck several friendlies, the Russians were still fighting furiously, firing gunfire that shot numerous Japanese in the camp. With Vylkalev gunning a few more soldiers down, I fired PPSH fire and shot seven Japanese as the Russians kept firing shots that raked and pinned Japanese soldiers and positions in the camp. After I shot up a couple more tents, Vylkalev rushed up to the last supply hold and placed a charge as I covered him... Then we got to cover as he set it off, destroying the hold. As Vylkalev fired cover shots, I fired and nailed five more soldiers as the Russians shot any remaining enemies left... And that was it, for the camp had been secured, with any remaining Japanese coming out to surrender.

"We've achieved victory, comrades!" I shouted out.

With that, Chen, Lin and the Chinese emerged from the trees and came over to us. We mopped up and secured the camp as several Russian and Chinese soldiers were then shooting and executing some Japanese prisoners. Chen and Lin came over to me and Vylkalev.

"You've fought very well today," Chen spoke, "I will repay you for your assistance."


The Japanese were cleared from this area of Manchuria. Command has ordered my forces to assist in the fighting at Hailar, so we made preparations to do so, with Chen and his troops deciding to come with us and assist.

With the fighting over here, Chen, Lin and their forces lead me, Vylkalev and our Russian troops to their base. We found this to be a series of cave in the hills that Chen and his Chinese soldiers made their homes. As we walked in these caves, the Chinese soldiers waiting there greeted all of us, even preparing food for us... These soldiers have made quite a living here in these hills.

As we came near each other, Vylkav spoke, "It seems we were successful, but I'm still waiting to see your skills for leadership."

"I told you," I responded, "I'll lead these men as best I can."

"They may see you as this great hero, Viktor," Vylkalev stated, "But I know you're still just a man."

"I never made myself out to be more than that." I said.

"So why are you trying to be something you're not?" Vylkalev stated rather indignantly.

"That's what you told me to do," I said sternly, "...Now that will be all, Lieutenant."

Vylkalev walked off, and that's when Chen came over towards me, eating some cooked noodles from a wooden bowl. "What's with him?" Chen asked.

"...He lost some of his best men in Russia," I said, "...I don't know when, but it happened." I looked around the caves, seeing Chinese soldiers working and relaxing. There were different beds, supplies and ammunition crates and some makeshift kitchens lying around to help these men survive.

"...I've built a very strong army here, Viktor," Chen stated, "They will help serve you very well."

"I know they will," I responded, "They already have."

"From what I hear, Hailar will be a difficult target," Chen continued, "But they can handle it... All my soldiers are strong, brave, skilled... I know this."

"How did you build this?" I asked.

"They might all wear uniforms of the Kuomintang, but we all only serve China," Chen said, "I received my military education in Germany, and I used it to train all these men as vigorously as possible. I taught them to be brave, how to fight with skill... And it's payed off, for we've won most battles we've fought against the Japanese, whether in a conventional sense, or as guerillas."

"You're saying these men are not Nationalists?" I asked.

"We are Nationalists," Chen said, "Following the example of Sun Yat-Sen... But we are neither Kuomintang nor Communists. Those two are only interested in going at each other, but my forces are fully committed to ridding China of the Japanese invaders. We fight conventionally at great times, but we've vastly utilized guerilla tactics, with great effect... Through out this war, we have remained all over China, even a midst the brutal Japanese invasion of these lands, so we can constantly harass them."

"How many men do you have?" I asked.

"Maybe fifty to a hundred thousand, in Nationalist uniform loyal to me, to China," Chen answered, "I teach with much importance to my men that they all behave with extreme respect and compassion to all of China's civilians, we help and feed every village... Much of the villages and countryside who know us greatly support us... It's from these places that we continue gaining more numbers to help fight."

Then another member of Chen's force came up to us, and as I looked him over, he appeared to be a former Japanese soldier. As he handed a paper to Chen, the soldier spoke, "The report of current enemy strength at Hailar, Captain."

Chen accepted the report and then said to me, "Viktor, this is Junichiro, my intelligence officer... Came to our aid after witnessing the evil at Nanking."

"A deserter?" I said.

"A defector," Chen corrected, "As I said, anyone willing to kill Japs is welcome."

Junichiro bowed respectfully to me as I responded with a smile, "Well any comrade of yours is a comrade of mine." I then shook Junichiro's hand and then he walked away, promising to find more information for our next assault."

"My soldiers our known as the 'Wolves'," Chen spoke, "I'll tell you all I can of them... But, there is another thing I'd like to discuss with you."

"What is it?" I asked.

"...There's something, another enemy here in China, far more dangerous and deadly than the Japanese, and even worse, they have been greatly helping the Japanese here in China," Chen stated, "...Locals who've heard refer them as the Hēisè yōulíng... The 'Ghosts in Black'."

"Is that a compliment?" I asked.

"I'm not sure," Chen said, "These 'Ghosts' are very strong, vicious fighters who've won every battle they've engaged in... Still, while they're friends with the Japanese, these 'Ghosts' are very kind and helpful to Chinese villages and civilians living in the countryside, helping villagers and even giving them food. But while they are very kind to civilians here in China, they are extremely brutal and ferocious when fighting enemy combatants. They're very skilled and successful guerilla fighters. They kill as many of their enemies as they can, and then they vanish. They've mostly been fighting Communist Chinese forces here in China as well as British forces in India, viciously and brutally crushing all of them. I've even encountered them, just barely escaping... Locals believe them to be superhuman, even demons, but those are just village stories... Still, they are quite feared by most who've heard."

"...Can you describe them?" I asked of him.

"All I know is that they wear black clothes," Chen answered, "...And wear German helmets like ours."

I decided to decipher this mystery already, "...That's it, these 'Ghosts'," I said, "...They're German soldiers... They're of Hershing's Asien Korps."

"Hershing?" Chen pondered.

"He's a Nazi officer I encountered," I told him, "Back when the Nazis were invading the Soviet Union... He has German forces stationed in China to help the Japanese... His soldiers are very strong."

"Ah, the Germans... I know the evil the Nazis have done... But I will say, before the war, Germany helped China greatly," Chen spoke, taking off his stahlhelm and showing it to me, "For instance, this helmet... To you, it's a symbol Germany's aggression... But to me, it's a symbol of China's continued strength. Germany gave these helmets to China's armies, and they've proven very useful... My 'Wolves' take high value in these helmets, and we've retrieved many of them. We always make sure to recover every helmet in our possession, so that they are passed on to the next soldier... One of the reasons we carry our dead from the battlefield."

"Well, continue to make use of them," I said, "Hershing is working on something here, and I want to find out."

I looked over and saw Mei Lin sitting next to Mischa, happily petting the dog. It seems she already gained a great affection for the canine. Chen then spoke, "It is nice to see she hasn't lost her joy... I hope you still have some optimism left."

"...Maybe." I said.

"...It's my understanding you're an expert on the violin... Lin loves such music."

"...And that reminds me," I said and then walked out of the nearby exit towards a Soviet truck, grabbing a medium sized box and bringing it inside the caves, then setting it down and opening it to reveal my own violin to Chen, "A reminder from my father, before he died."

With that, I took out the violin and placed it along my shoulder... And then I began strumming the bow across the strings, lifting such lovely, calm rhythms in the air and sounding very beautiful music. As I played the violin, some Chinese and Russians nearby came over to listen and be mesmerized by the lovely sounds. Mei Lin came over and sat in front of me to listen, and as I played, she looked to be very touched by the beautiful, graceful music that I created with the strumming.

I know I'm mostly a brutal man nowadays... But this violin, sometimes I just felt like this gave me a way to release my inner feelings of peace... Maybe that's what Lin was actually feeling... So I just kept strumming the strings of the violin, creating calm, lovely music that soothed through the caves.