WITHOUT WARNING
Page 01-Dedication
Page 01-Prologue
Page 07-Chapter One-The Dragon Rising
Page 11-Chapter Two-The Ultimatum
Page 13-Chapter Three-In the Shadow of Armageddon
Page 18-Chapter Four-On the Doorstep of Destiny
Page 21-Chapter Five-In the Chaos of the Unknown
Page 38-Chapter Six-Into the Abyss of No Return
Page 53-Chapter Seven-The Belly of the Beast
Page 60-Chapter Eight-Innocent Lost
Page 85-Chapter Nine-Revenge to One-A Warning to Others
Page 94-Chapter Ten-The Aftermath
This book is dedicated to the generations of Americans
yet to come. May they have the wisdom to learn from
our carelessness, & misunderstandings of World Affairs.
May they never again view our world through the lens
of mindless optimism; but rather through one of
conditioned realism.
JAMES WILLIAM STANSELL-Saturday, June 15, 1996
Prologue
Time-The Near Future
LETTER TO THE EDITOR....
WASHINGTON POST-DISPATCH
WASHINGTON D.C.
Thursday, March 25
As a long time reader of the Dispatch
and one who almost always
agrees with and looks forward to your comentary, I felt compelled to
write in response to
your editorial last week entitled "Ballistic Missile Defense-A Relic of a
time gone by."
I was shocked at the degree of negativity to which the article
commented about the efforts of President Wilson and House Majority
Leader Donalds Winston to pass legislation mandating a ballistic missile
defense for the UnitedStates.
At the time of this writing the future course of the United States, as well
as the world is at a crossroads. This editorial is in no way a type of anti-
nuclear weapons editorial. I believe they have a definite place in the
defense of our country and will continue to play a major role in that
defense into the foreseeable future.
With the break-up of the Soviet Union, along with the many Nuclear
Weapons Reduction treaties signed and implemented before and after
its break-up the world let out a collective sigh of relief as the
superpowers backed further and further away from WWIII, and indeed
they have.
However, while the chances of an all-out Nuclear war grow less and less
likely, almost unthinkable at this point, the chances of a limited Nuclear
exchange between the United States and a nation other than Russia are
higher than they have ever been before. A bitter irony for the post-cold
war world that having reduced substantially the chances of a major
Nuclear exchange, the chances of a limited Nuclear exchange may have
increased ten-fold.
The reasons for this substantial increase can be attributed to several
factors, some of which were born during the Cold War, many afterwards.
The end of the Cold War brought much relief to the people of the United
States. After living under the shadow of Soviet ICBMs for almost 45
years, the public could now relax. Having fought a long struggle against
Communism, it began to recede into the ashes of history. The long
awaited "Peace Dividend" was finally here. Shortly afterward, the public
slipped into a deep malaise, and carefree attitude about the dangers of
the post-cold war world.
It is this malaise that currently represents one of our most dynamic
enemies.
It has already spawned several events, that taken individually would
seem harmless, but placed together represents a collective danger that
already is paving the way to a nuclear exchange.
One of the key events that have already passed is the inability of the
American people to truly comprehend the need for extensive civil
defense, as well as Ballistic Missile Defense.
The birth of these beliefs can be traced back to the 1960's. An extensive
media distortion about the effects, numbers of nuclear weapons, as well
as the strategies of those in charge of nuclear policy, has lead to what is
perhaps an irreversible and highly dangerous attitude among the
people, that only one nuclear route is possible-total nuclear war, in
which case as the myth goes, there won't be anyone left anyway, so
don't worry about it. I pray that the country does not find out the hard
way that there is an infinite number of nuclear paths that can be taken
other than total nuclear exchange.
Changing these attitudes will be most difficult. It requires a prolonged
and most intensive counter-balance campaign. The likes of which may
not happen until it is to late.
Another event currently taking place as a result of the end of the
Cold-War is the proliferation of nuclear weapons technology to many
rouge states. Among them include Iraq, Iran, North Korea, India,
Pakistan, and China. With the last three already being declared nuclear
states, and a minor arms race already taking place among them. It is
interesting to note that the first three are already enemies of the U.S.
and the final three, while not enemies, are not on the best of speaking
terms with the U.S. The final one China, has already begun testing the
waters with the U.S. Most recently the future of Taiwan has been a
source of friction. With vague nuclear threats being made against the
United States before the Taiwan election. Most disturbing, considering
that China is currently the only one of the previously mentioned nations
that has the ability to deliver nuclear warheads, by land and sea, to any
point in the United States This should have been the wake up call for
the American public, however it would appear that it wasn't.
The third and most important event taking place is the rise of
nationalism in all of the countries previously mentioned.
These countries are well aware of the state of apathy that the American
public is currently in. Most vividly illustrated in the recent filibuster,
not once but three times of bills that would authorize the
implementation of Ballistic Missile Defence for the United States. They
all have rising nationalism, and three of them have nuclear weapons.
One of which, China, as stated before has the ability to deliver nuclear
warheads to the United States.
These events taken together make the probability of a limited nuclear
exchange more likely than ever before. The only solution is a three
pronged one that must be initiated immediately. First-An extensive
public-relations campaign must begin to educate the American public on
the types of nuclear weapons available and most importantly their
effects. If the public abandons the sickening belief that for some reason
if just one bomb goes off, that's the end of the world, so just kick back
and forget about it, it would go a long way towards ensuring that the
other two prongs are implemented. Two-The virtues of extensive and
well organized civil defense need to be explained.
Finally and what is most important, a ballistic missile defense system
must be deployed, immediately. The argument that it is to expensive
will vaporize with the first detonation.
We are at a crossroads, we could continue down the path we are
currently on.
I believe that would lead to a disaster the likes of which our country
has never witnessed. Or we could take a bold and decisive path. One
which would let this country take control of its destiny. Nuclear attacks
on our nation need not take the lives of millions, nor cause the damage
that it could.
The choice is ours-I sincerely hope that we make the right one.
A Concerned Citizen
Editors Response to "A Concerned Citizen"
While we appreciate you reading our newspaper and taking the time to
respond to our editorial, we must say that what you are proposing is
simply out of date. The Cold War is long over. What the American public
does not need is to be thrown back to the '50s having to worry about
the outbreak of nuclear war. They have gone through that experience
once and that was enough. The public has better things to worry about,
like putting food on the table, instead of worrying if some unknown
crazy is going to drop a nuclear bomb on their head.
While it appears that you have taken some time to study the issue, we
would suggest that the likelihood of someone wanting to have a nuclear
war is so low, almost improbable, that their is no justification for what
you propose.
Your program, if it was initiated would only strike uneeded fear into the
public. Fortunately, there aren't enough votes in the Senate to pass the
Presidents' bill.
However, we thank you for your letter and hope that you will continue
to read our paper.
Editor-Kennith Williams
Washington Post-Dispatch
Chapter One-The Dragon Rising
Monday, May 10
Atlanta 6:55 a.m. EST
"And we've got a rough commute this morning, starting with the 75/85
split just north of E. Cleveland. A six car accident has traffic backed up
all the way to Farmers Market on North bound I-75. Your best bet is to
take 285 up to the Route 23 exit and take 23 till the 42 spur where
you'll rejoin 75/85 at exit 89. It'll take longer but all things considered
it may save you time this morning. Taking a look at the beltway this
morning an accident on the entrance ramp of Spur 14 has traffic
moving, but very slow all the way to the Camp Creek Pkwy. Other than
that just allow yourself some extra time this Monday morning and you
should be alright. This is Tim Conwell back in 15."
"Thanks Tim, Tim Conwell with Atlanta Metro traffic. Now let's check in
with CNNs' White House correspondent Nathan Lawrence. Nathan, can
you tell us what we can expect today from the Wilson Campaign team?"
"Well, Nancy the President is in California for the next several days and
is expected to make a campaign stop in Los Angeles this afternoon
where he'll be meeting with members of LockHead Martin and the U.S.
Military Vendors Association. Of course, he'll not only be seeking
support from these groups in a second term as President, but he'll also
be seeking support to pass the increased defense spending bill now on
the floor of the Senate. As lobbyist, these groups have, in the past,
shown their strength which is what Wilson is hoping for today. It's been
hard for the President since the Democrat's have stagnated this years
defence budget in the Senate. We're told by the Wilson campaign that
they will be airing a graphic new commercial very soon, featuring
Seattle being destroyed by the accidental launch of an Indian SLBM.
Given the fact that India has yet to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban
Treaty, and the fact that they deployed their first nuclear armed
submarine last year, the ad takes on a very surreal feeling. The ad is
of course meant to build support for the Presidents' National Missile
Defense program. He is hoping that the new ad will turn public opinion
polls in his favor. The Democrats, on the other hand, have been
successful thus far at their attempt to block the bill. Majority leaders
say that it is because of the missile defense program contained in the
budget, but others claim it's a campaign strategy to tip the scales for
them. No matter which way the upcoming vote goes in the Senate, this
issue will remain a hot one, and will be a deciding factor on who the
Democrats nominate as their candidate. This is Nathan Lawrence
reporting live for CNN from the White House."
Monday, May 10
Bejing, China 8:00 PM CST
The cool mist hovered over Bejing enveloping it in an unusual calm
silence. Dimming the city's lively, dancing night lights the mist took on
an appearance as if it were a shroud of morning. For some, the natural
metaphor reinforced the fear of the change they knew was coming that
offered a questionable future for Chinas' government. Political leaders
watched silently, for years, as a anti-american faction took hold and
grew within their own political body. The old Chinese leaders began to
surmise that American influence on their country was counter-
revolutionary to their long held beliefs, and that Chinese containment
was not far behind.
None of the 20 million residents of Bejing, whose psyche were
engulfed in the unusual cool calm which arrived with the mist and that
penetrated every nook and cranny of the city, could hear or see the
sleek, arrow shaped objects that cut through the air above them
disturbing none of the silence around them. They flew undeterred to
their predesignated destination, the central district of Bejing.
With surgical precision the arrows met their targets causing a
tremendous multiple explosion. It rocked the very core of the city, with
an unearthly roar. The silence and calm the people had been lulled into
was shacken with a fierceness that unnerved them beyond repair.
Arrow after arrow hit their target. All governmental, commercial,
and financial buildings were destroyed within the first thirty seconds.
Fuel storage and distribution centers, utility substations, water
treatment plants, and communication sources were hit in the next
thirty seconds. Within one short minute Bejing was totally plunged into
utter dark, destructive chaos, sitting helplessly alone, cut off from the
world around them.
Monday, May 10
Atlanta 9:50AM EST
Bob Simon readied himself before the cameras. His mind tired from the
late night before. He couldn't wait to close his eyes and sleep. The floor
manager motioned his que and he was off.
"First, in this mornings sports we have two of the NBA's Eastern
Conference Playoffs. In Orlando last night after an extremely close
double over time game the Orlando Magics managed to inch ahead of
the New York Nicks beating them 112-110. The game went on for five
and a half hours." Bob paused then added. "Only the die-hard Magics or
Nicks fans would have stayed up to see that one." He smiled pleased
with his adlib and looked down at his papers.
"You're off sports!" a voice suddenly ordered Bob through his ear
piece. Bob looked up at the prompter and saw the news piece beginning
to appear as he heard the voice announcing a CNN special report.
"This just in," he began at his que as he pushed his ear piece
further into his ear, more for comfort than necessity, and slightly
cleared his voice asuming a more serious tone, "from the CNN Inter-
national News Desk." He paused calmly. "CNN International has just
received unconfirmed reports of a large explosion that has just taken
place in Chinas' capital Bejing." The words leaped out at him from the
teleprompter filling him with excitement. "We go now to CNNs' State
Department for a live report where CNNs' Kathy Bomen is standing by.
Kathy, what can you tell about this explosion?"
"Well Bob, it's not very clear exactly what is going on. Here at the
State Department there seams to be much confusion and speculation as
to what is really happening in Bejing. At first, reports issued from the
State Department moments ago, said that at 8:00 PM CST, that's Chinese
Standard Time, which is 7:00 AM EST, there had been an explosion of an
unknown origin, in an office building located in the central district of
Bejing. Fires resulting from the explosion have spread to several
surrounding buildings. Reports of damage and causalities have not been
issued. There have been some unsubstantiated reports, here among
press, saying that the fire has engulfed the hold of the Central District
which includes not only offices housing financial and commercial
business but alsovernment and military offices as well."
"Joining us," Bob said looking gravely serious into the camera
before him, "is CNN correspondent Norm Abrams at the Pentagon.
Norm, what can you tell us about what's happening in Bejing. Is this
explosion just what the State Department said one office building that
may haved ignited others or is it a massive fire engulfing government
and commercial buildings alike?"
"Well Bob, it's very unclear as to what is going on. I too, have
heard that there was one building that started it all, yet just before I
joined you a spokes person for the Pentagon stated that there were only
government and military buildings damaged which would lead one to
believe that it was some type of political attack instead of an
unfortunate disaster."
"We go now to the White House, Bob injected, "for a press
conference, where Nathan Lawrence is standing by, Nathan?"
"Thanks Bob, we are here at the White House where just a
moment ago, Press Secretary Anderson informed the press that at any
moment now Vice-President Blyth will address the press about the
situation in Bejing. President Wilson is apparently now aboard Air Force One
on his way back to Washington, having canceled his campaign tour of
Los Angeles where he had been trying to drum up support for his run
for reelection and for the passage of his missile defence bill in Congress."
The tall and handsome Vice President Andrew Blyth walked into
the press room and moved solidly toward the podium. A multitude of
camera shutters and flashes erupted at his first appearance and did not
stop. Following him into the room were the Secretary Of Defence and the
Air Force Chief Of Staff.
"Good morning," he said firmly, with a hard, business like face,
"I am sure you are all aware now of the situation which has and is still
taking place in Bejing, China. I would like take this moment to clarify
the issue as much as possible so as to avoid any type of unsubstaintiated
rumors from covering the actuality of the situation," he said emphasizing
his words. "From our sources in Asia we have been informed that there
has been a massive disaster in the Central District of Chinas' capital,
Bejing. We have also been informed that the disaster is military based.
Strategic targets have been bombed by, what we believe were air to
ground missiles that were fired from an unspecified number of
Mig-29's." He paused allowing his words to be digested by the shocked
crowd of correspondents and camerapersons. "At this moment President
Wilson is in contact with Russian President Lebedsian," he continued
firmly. "and an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security
Council as well as the National Security Council of the United States has
been called for latter this afternoon." With that Blyth turned quickly and
started from the podium. He disappeared from the room following
closely by the others leaving Press Secretary Anderson to move to the
stand alone.
"There will be no questions at this time. The White House will
inform you of any new information as it becomes available."
"That was short and to the point," Nathan said, his voice in
wonder, "yet I feel that the Vice President could have elaborated more
about who's Mig-29's did the firing and why?"
"He spoke about stopping rumors before they begin, do you think
he has just started one by not clarifying that?" Bob asked, feeling his
stomach begin to twist.
"Well, Bob, some would come to the conclusion that the Russians
had something to do with it, but then you must look at the fact that
there are many countries who have Mig-29's. Since the end of the cold
war and brake-up of the Soviet Union, we have several smaller
countries equipped with Communist made weapons."
"But are they able or willing for that matter to take on China?"
Bob asked. "Well, that's what I'd like to know. Who is the one? This is
Nathan Lawrence at the White House."
"Thank you Nathan," Bob said shuffling the papers before him.
"That was CNN correspondent Nathan Lawrence at the White House. CNN
will continue it's live coverge of the attack on Bejing after these
messages."
Tuesday, May 11
Bejing, China 7:25AM CST
The newly born eastern sun rose solemnly over the city of Bejing.
It's yellow white glow shown oddly against what was left of the ancient
city's Central District.
Nearly all of China's regular armed troops were called in from all
over China to guard what was left of the District leaving skeleton groups
behind to defend its' boarders.
Armored vehicles, affixed with communications equipment,
rumbled down the narrow side streets announcing attack to the public.
Monday, May 10
Atlanta 6:30PM EST
"This is CNNs' Bob Simon in Atlanta, with the evening news for Monday,
May 10. We begin tonight with our top story, the now confirmed coup
in China.
At this point , this is what we know. At approx. 8:00 p.m. local time
Monday, a political group made up of a substantial part of the Chinese
military, calling themselves People for a United China or P.U.C.
overthrew the current Chinese government. Other than top political
leaders, the death toll was very light. Official reports have more people
dying from the fires than the actual conflict. The total death count
stands at 371. A relatively small amount when looking back at other
coups. The," Bob paused as he began listenng to the voice of his producer
in his left ear."We are now being told that the leader of the new
government in China is about to make a statement to the world.
Chapter Two-The Ultimatum
Tuesday, May11
Beijing, China 8:05 a.m. BST
From a makeshift office, the new leader of the worlds most populace
nation began to speak.
"I am chairman, Zarain, head of the P.U.C. and ruler of China. Yesterday,
an action was taken to secure our countries' legitimate place in the
world.
The previous administration for too long neglected to nurture certain
elements of Chinas' society. For too long they did not take advantage of
opportunities that were handed them. Instead they looked for personal
gain over the betterment of the country. The world for to long has not
respected the people of China, and that was a most dangerous mistake.
Our immediate task will be to rid ourselves of an encroaching force that
has up to now prevented our country from achieving that which is
rightfully theirs. I, the head of the P.U.C. hereby call on the United States
to begin the process of immediate withdraw of military forces in the
Pacific Rim, namely those in South Korea and Japan. The positioning of
forces in these areas represents a direct insult at our people and their
country. How long did America expect the people of China to be slapped
in the face like this? This cannot and will not be continued. Our people
will not be treated like a child who is sent to his room!
Our people are being punished for crimes they did not commit! To the
rest of the world, like spectators watching a fight you do nothing to stop
it from continuing. The United States has 48 hours to begin the process
of withdraw or they will face the consequences of their deeds! That is
all.
Monday, May 10
Atlanta 7:05 p.m. EST
Bob, speaking in a bewildered tone, "Well, there you have it, our first
statement from the new government that apparently has been
successful in taking over China. He has issued a most stern demand
against the United States.
Saying that the U.S. military bases in South Korea and Japan represent
'A direct insult against the people of China.' The new president of China,
Chairman Zarain as he calls himself, has given the United States 48
hours to begin the process of withdraw or 'Face the consequences of
their deeds.' We want to go now to CNNs' Pentagon correspondent Kathy
Bomen.."
"Bob, this is Kathy here. The Pentagon will most definitely take a
statement like this very seriously. You can be sure that a lot of people
will be losing sleep over the next 48 hours. We're told the President has
issued a general statement saying that the United States has the right to
make treaties with other countries just as China does. Other than that
both the Pentagon and the White house are remaining silent about
responding to this statement from China.
Separately we're told that the United Nations has voted to put in place
economic sanctions against China if they make any provocative moves
towards the United States or any other country, or if they in any way
threaten the shipping routes in the far pacific. But for now it seems the
world will be watching the next two days very carefully. Bob, back to
you." Kathy answered.
"Kathy Bomen at the Pentagon, thank you. Well, the Asian Financial
Markets have opened already and we want to go now to CNNs' Asian
business corresspondent David Chow in Tokyo to get a read on how their
reacting to the situation in China. David..."
"Bob, David here. We are looking at a very intense sell-off. Already in
Tokyo we're getting fund liquidation which has send the Nikkei Index
down 17%! The Hang Sang index in Hong Kong is off 11%. And the bank
of Japan is reporting a major run on banks as people are pulling their
money out.
All this is helping gold which is up almost 6% here in Tokyo. It looks like
it will be a rough day in Europe when their markets open and in New
York when they open. Bob, back to you."David said.
"David Chow, in Tokyo, thanks. Alright we want to go now to an A.P.
report on the news wires which could be of great importance. We are
getting unconfirmed reports from local reporters in the area that U.S.
Nuclear Ballistic Submarines at King Bay, Georgia, Charleston, South
Carolina and in Bangor,Washington are being flushed out to sea. We're
not sure what this means, except to say that the situation in Beijing may
be much worse than anyone could imagine. Again these are unconfirmed
reports but it now appears that the entire U.S. Nuclear Ballistic
Submarine fleet is being sent to sea. We want to go now to one of our
local reporters in Kings Bay, Georgia. Janice, what can you tell us?" Bob
asked his mind now beginning to consider the unthinkable. "Bob we are
here in Kings Bay, about two miles south of the Navel Submarine Base.
The Navy has shut us out. Normally we can get onto the base to some
areas, but tonight we can't get within two miles of the base. About a half
an hour ago we tried to get on of our choppers in for an aerial view, to
see what is going on, and a Marine Helicopter nearly shot us out of the
sky.
We can not see if subs are actually leaving, however we can distinctly
see the wakes in the water which would resemble a submerged
submarine leaving dock. Also we have noticed at least 100 cars have
pulled onto the base, evidently sailors that we're on stand-by have been
called in. Similar reports are coming in from Bangor, Washington and
Charleston, South Carolina Those are the other two Ballistic Submarine
bases. I should let you know Bob, that I have also heard reports of
Bomber Bases around the country experiencing similar activity. If we
hear anything else we'll let you know, back to you Bob." Janice answered
with both excitement and fear of what this meant. "Janice thank-you.
Alright we want to go back to back to CNNs' Kathy Bomen at the
Pentagon. Kathy, What the hell is going on?" Bob asked, his mind now
drawing the same conclusion that millions around the world were also
coming to.
"Bob, as surreal as I know it sounds, the Pentagon is confirming that the
entire U.S. Nuclear Ballistic Submarine fleet is being sent to sea. They
are also confirming that U.S. B-1, B-2, and B-52 bases across the country
are are on maximum alert, known as Defcon-2 and that an undisclosed
number of bombers will be taking off and going to stationary orbits
within the hour. We are being told that the last time any segment of the
United States Nuclear Forces were at Defcon-2 was during the Cuban
Missile Crisis. Additionally I have just received new information that
all Minuteman and Peacekeeper missile bases across the country are at
Defcon-3 and could be going to Defcon-2 at any hour. O.K., Bob hold on
one second I've been given some more papers here. I want to see what
they say." Kathy answered, her mind not yet having a chance to digest
what she had just reported to the world. The few seconds of silence
were all that the world had to comprehind the magnitude of what was
happening.
Kathy returned after just a few seconds. "O.K. Bob, I'm back I have just
been told that all U.S. Aircraft Carrier battle groups at port will be sent
to sea in less than five hours, and we are being told that the President
has ordered four Carrier Battle Groups, the Independence, Ronald
Reagan, Washington, and the Nimitze to the South China Sea.
Bob, the official statement from the Pentagon is that the President has
ordered these moves as a precautionary measure due to the situation in
China. But, needless to say the Crisis in China must be far worst than we
are being lead to believe. However, we have just gotten word that the
President will be addressing the nation at 9:00 p.m. eastern time tonight
and will have further information on the situation in China.
One can only wonder what will happen next in this incredible and
unexpected turn of events in China. What began as just another Monday,
looks like it will go down in the history books as the beginning of
potentially a major historical event." Kathy explained.
"Kathy Bomen at the Pentagon, thank you. We want to go now to CNNs'
Kim Mathews in Moscow because it appears that some news of
importance is taking place there." Bob said.
"That's right Bob, similar events are playing out here in Russia where
President Lebedstain has just finished a press conference, where
he said that all land based ICBM bases of the Russian Strategic Rocket
Forces have been put on maximum alert and the full Russian Nuclear
Ballistic Submarine fleet is being sent to sea as we speak, also the
Russian Air Force has activated all Offensive Nuclear bomber bases and
like the Americans an undisclosed number of bombers will be going into
stationary orbits. President Lebedstain stresses that he has full faith
that the U.S. actions are in response to the situation in China and that
Russia will remain neutral in their dispute however, he has said, and I
quote "Any attack, nuclear or otherwise on Russia, intentional, or not by
the United States will have a most unwelcome effect on the people of
both countries." So it appears the stakes are just continuing to
be raised in this crisis. I guess all we can do now is hope that our worst
nightmares don't come true. That's all from here, back to you Bob."
Kim replied her voice almost resigned to the inevitable.
"Kim Mathews in Moscow, thanks. We have with us now John Lowdon
who was a former adviser on the National Security Council. John, how
significant are the moves the President is taking? I mean, are we talking
about doomsday here" Bob asked.
"Well, I would have to say that they are extremely significant. I don't
know if we are talking about doomsday, but I will say that you don't
put any segment of the U.S. Nuclear Forces on Defcon-2 just to see what
happens.
I think it represents a deep concern that the President has about the
situation." John replied.
"But do you think there could be a chance of overreaction here on our
part, I mean this group just came to power, we don't know how much
control they have, and here we and the Russians are putting vast
amounts of Nuclear Forces on high alert." Bob questioned in desperation,
as if he was trying to change the minds of the worlds' leaders.
"I must say that I don't think we are overreacting, I mean , we have
been given a 48 hour warning to perform an action that we cannot by
no means do, by a regime that apparently has control of the Chinese
military.
Just by the fact that we are not seeing the widespread confusion that
we normally see in a coup of this magnitude, I would have to say that
they have substantial control of the military and a high degree of
political backing. With regards to the actions being taken by the Russian
Government, I believe that they are very consistent with Nuclear
protocol. They can not just sit idly by while the United States puts its'
Nuclear Forces on high alert. They have to show some action, even if for
political reasons that they are ready for any event. In fact, I would
expect that we would be taking the same actions if we were in their
position. Our primary concern is the Chinese threat, not the Russians at
this point."
Monday, May 10
Los Angeles, California 5:50 p.m. PST
Auther Williams pulled up the driveway of his upscale suburban home
in Laguna Hills, south of Los Angeles. His wife rushed out of the door to
meet him. They held each other in a long embrace.
"I've been worried sick about you." she exclaimed.
"I got back as soon as I could. The company is getting swamped with
calls from Asian Funds wanting out. No one wants a position in anything
in Asia.
We're getting deluged with calls from people wanting out when New
York opens, no one wants a position in anything! The company had to
use some of it's reserve fund for purchases, there just aren't buyers.
It's just a mess!" Auther exclaimed in exasperation.
But, at least we're together for whatever happens." Auther replied.
"Have you been listening, there sending all our subs out, bomber bases
are on alert and sending bombers into position, all our carriers are
heading out, CNN is talking about Nuclear attacks on the country, and
they may start evactuating cities tomorrow!" Alicia said franticly, trying
to inform her husband of the days events.
"Hey, hey just calm down. Everything is going to be alright." Auther
said, trying to convince himself as well as Alicia. "The President will be
speaking in a minute, I think we need to hear what he has to say."
Auther suggested.
They hurried inside to turn on the television, like millions of other
Americans and countless millions more across the world, hoping to hear
words of reassurance, hoping that the crisis somehow had been settled.
Monday, May 10
Washington D.C. 9:00 p.m. EST
Ladies and Gentleman , the President of the United States...
My fellow Americans, today an historical event took place in China. A
coup, backed by the Chinese military was initiated against the former
government in China. It was successful. A new government which is
extremely hostile towards the United States is now in place. This new
regime has demanded that we remove our military forces from South
Korea and Japan or face unspecified consequences. We cannot and will
not comply with this demand.
The people of Japan and South Korea are our allies and our friends. We
can no more comply with this demand as much as we could've complied
with a demand from the Soviet Union to remove our forces from
Germany, or England. I will not allow this country to be blackmailed, we
were not by the Soviets and we will not be by this regime. In response
to this demand and to clear up any ambiguity that this regime may
have about the position of the United States, I have ordered four carrier
battle groups to the region.
Furthermore, all remaining Carrier Groups at port will be leaving within
the next three hours. In the event that somehow this regime still does
not understand our position, I have let it be known publicly that I have
placed all of the U.S. Strategic Nuclear Forces on extreme alert.
Our entire Nuclear Ballistic Submarine fleet has left our shores. Our
Minuteman and Peacekeeper ballistic missile bases across the country
are on maximum alert, as well as our B-1, B-2, and B-52 bases across
the country. In addition to these measures, I am also ordering the
deployment of an advanced version of the Patriot Missile Defense
Systems across the country. While it is not a complete defense, it has
shown to be highly effective in intercepting missiles for the area it is
protecting. These measures are a precaution, however we must be
prepared for any event that may take place.
If I feel the situation warrants, I will order the evacuation of our cities.
Tomorrow, residents of 400 "Risk Areas" across our country will be
receiving in their newspapers and by mail several documents titled
"Protection during the Nuclear Age"
and another document detailing
instructions if the area you are in is ordered to evacuate. They will also
contain phone numbers and addresses of local Civil-Defense shelters
which I am ordering reactivated, there will be trained specialists there
who can help answer all your questions.
My friends, these are dangerous times we live in, while we all hope and
pray that the worst doesn't happen, being prepared can save lives.
Tonight our country faces a challenge that it will meet head on. We will
prevail over the threat of tyranny. We will continue to work and pray
for peace, God bless you, and God bless America.
Chapter Three-In the Shadow of Armageddon
Monday, May 10
Los Angeles, California 6:15 p.m. PST
Auther and his wife sat in silence after hearing the Presidents' address,
not knowing how to react. They grew up in the wanning years of the
Cold War, after it ended they thought for sure that something like this
would never happen. The Russians were working with us on all fronts,
and we had been reducing Nuclear weapons for years now. And then
this. It was like the '50s all over again.
Alicia stood up "Maybe we should leave the city, go to the vacation
house up in the mountains?" She asked.
"Darling, we've got to remain calm and try not to panic. We may not
even be on the high risk area list.We should at least stay until tomorrow
to see if we are."Auther replied.
"You know as well as I do that if Laguna Hills isn't, Los Angeles and San
Diego sure are. And I for one do not want to stick around to see if they
get hit!!" Alicia said, with a raising panic in her voice.
"Alright, alright. Call your mother and let her know what's going on, I'll
start packing, but we'll leave in the morning. Both of us have got to get
some sleep.
I'll set the clock a couple of hours early so we can beat the rush hour
traffic." Auther replied.
"O.K. I'll give her a call, and help you out in a couple of minutes." Alicia
responded.
Monday, May 10
Strategic Air Command Headquarters
Omaha, Nebraska 8:15 p.m. MST
An alarm goes off indicating ballistic missile launch from southern
China.
"Sir I think you better take a look at this." said one of the LT.s on duty
monitoring the Asian region, even more intently now with the crisis
going on.
"What is it LT.?" asked the commanding officer for the night shift.
"Well it appears to be about a dozen ballistic missile launches from
southern China. Only they all appear to be short range." explained the
LT. "What are the targets?" asked Commander Tucker.
"The targets all appear to be Hanoi, Vietnam. The first one has an E.T.I.
of three minutes. Sir." The Lt. answered, his voice quickening.
A second alarm goes of indicating another ballistic missile launch from
southern China.
"One second commander, we've got another launch. Same area, only this
time targets include Vientiane, Laos and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.
Estimated time of impact is four minutes 15 seconds."The LT. said with
a touch of excitement in his voice. This was the first time since he
started that there were any launches anywhere. Commander Tucker
knew better. He knew the capability of China and he did not like this
one bit.
"Alright, stay on it, keep me informed. Get me Gen. Riley at the Pentagon.
I want a threat assessment conference called for immediately."
Demanded Commander Tucker.
Tuesday, May 11
Hanoi, Vietnam 11:20 a.m. HST
The city was bustling with activity, the people going about their daily
business unaware of the events that were about to take place, unaware
of the magnitude of events that had already taken place. Most people
still got their information about the outside world from the newspapers,
and they were still controlled by the communist government, who was
down-playing the crisis between China and the United States, saying
only that there was an internal power struggle going on in China. No
word about the coup, or the events that had taken place afterward.
The Hanoi government was taking steps to appease China by not
arousing public sentiment against them, hoping to prevent the actions
which were now under way, and could not be turned back.
A loud noise from overhead could now be heard, in the distance dozens
of vapor trails could now be seen. As people along the streets began
looking up to determine what they were seeing it was too late. From
several directions across the city an intense and heavily localized
blinding light could now be seen, people, buildings, factories, all were
vaporized by the intense heat. Then the shock waves, buildings, and
anything else left standing from the heat, were scattered like dust to
the four winds. Where air once was, it was no more, several vacuums
across the city now sucked the remains of the city into where the air
had been just minutes ago.
The genie was now out of the bottle, and the familiar sight which had
frighten the world for so long, the mushroom cloud of death, could now
be seen by those who survived.
The images would be repeated again several more times before the
hour was out.
For the first time since 1945 Nuclear weapons had been used on
civilians, and like before the world would never be the same again.
Monday, May 10
Strategic Air Command Headquarters
Omaha, Nebraska 8:22 p.m. MST
"Sir, both N.O.R.A.D. and B.M.E.W.S. confirm that we have several Nuclear
Detonations that have taken place both in Hanoi, Vietnam and in
Vientiane, Laos. The detonations are relatively small, they're most likely
Tactical weapons. It appears that the attack consisted of both Tactical
Nuclear Weapons and conventional weapons. The missiles were
launched from the same area, the exact coordinates are in southern
China near the city of Nanning. Our intelligence shows that there are no
ICBM silos or underground bases there." explained the LT. , who himself
could now see the severity of the situation.
In a most stern voice the Commander spoke, "Gentlemen, I am moving
our alert status to Defcon-1, a nuclear event has taken place. Keep Gen.
Riley at the Pentagon on the line, and get me Gen. Milton at N.A.T.O
command in Brussels, and get me the President! I'm ordering a missile
attack conference called for immediately."
Washington D.C. 10:23 p.m. EST
"Mr President, we have a secure line for you, Commander Tucker at SAC
HQ has ordered a M.A.C. Gen. Milton in Brussels is on line two and Gen.
Riley is on line three." an aide said, in a very calm voice.
"Jesus Christ! Tucker, what's our status?" the President asked.
"Sir, we are at Defcon-1, approx. four minutes ago the Chinese launched
about a dozen tactical nuclear weapons against various targets in
Vietnam, and Laos. In combination with a conventional missile attack.
Currently, we have detected no launches against the United States.
However, we would recommend that you leave Washington
immediately.
As well as ordering nationwide evacuation now. Sir, we don't know
where their subs are right now, but we would also recommend that you
begin retargeting our subs in the Pacific against Chinese military targets."
Commander Tucker explained.
"God almighty." the President said under his breath. A long pause
followed. The President now realized that the unthinkable was fast
becoming thinkable.
"Alright, start transmitting the coordinates to the subs. I'll be signing
the Executive order for nationwide evac. in a minute. I'll be leaving
shortly thereafter. And Tucker,' the President said.
"Yes sir?" Tucker questioned.
"Good luck." the President said with hesitation in his voice.
"Yes sir." Tucker responded.
The Presidents' arm slowly set the phone down. Then proceeded to get
President Lebedstain on a secure line.
"Mr. Lebedstain, I'm sure you have been following the actions that I
have ordered. And I'm sure you are aware of events taking place in
Laos and Vietnam." The President asked.
"Yes, very much so." The Russian President answered.
"Good. My advisors believe that there is a high probability of a nuclear
attack on my country. I want to notify you that within minutes I will be
ordering a nationwide evacuation, and that a portion of our Pacific
Submarine Fleet will be retargeting their weapons against Chinese
military targets. I give you my word that we will make no provocative
moves against Russia. These are purely defensive moves that we will be
taking to counteract the Chinese threat. I would suggest that we remain
united in our solidarity against the Chinese. To show this, I would
recommend that you evacuate your cities also, and let your people know
that you are taking a pure defensive move in conjunction with the
United States to counteract the Chinese threat." The American President
explained, hoping that the Russian President would not complicate
matters.
"You are asking me to take a great leap of faith. However, I understand
both the tactical and political pressure you must be under. Our countries
have come too far to let this incident destroy our relationship and our
countries." President Lebedstain replied. A short pause followed. "I will
order the evacuation of our cities shortly after you make your
announcement. I will denounce the Chinese advancement and proclaim
that the United States and Russia are united against this common
enemy." President Lebdestain explained.
"Thank you, my friend. I will be delivering my proclamation to the
press in just a few minutes."President Wilson replied. Relived that for
now the Russians were not complicating matters.
Atlanta 10:41 p.m. EST
Lisa had been at work all day, the events in China, and the rest of Asia
were a world away, both literally and mentally, they wouldn't be for
much longer. She looked forward to taking a long hot shower to wine
down. As she took her clothes off she reached over to turn on the radio,
living alone the radio helped provide a voice of comfort during the
night.
"This is a CNN breaking news story..." "Bob Simon here in Atlanta, we
have just received a statement from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency in Washington D.C. We are told that the President
has left Washington along with the Cabinet and Joint Chief's Of Staff, and
are on their way to a remote, undisclosed location.
However the President has left orders, that National Emergency
Directive D be activated imediately. By order of the President, the
United States will begin evacuations of major cities effective
immediately. All leaves of U.S. military personal are hereby cancelled.
All reserve units are ordered activated. All units of the National Guard
are ordered activated. All members of the 1st Infantry Division(Mech)
are to report to Fort Riley, Kansas. All members of the 2nd Infantry
Division are to report to Fort Ord, California.
As she reached over to turn the shower on her hand slowly stopped,
and she cautiously stepped out of the shower to listen. "What in the
hell is this all about." She wondered.
Miami 10:51 p.m. EST
Coming back from the movies, John and Diania were now on their way
to a romantic dinner, and a night out on the town. This was one of the
first days in a long time that there jobs permitted them to be together.
He worked the night shift at an office downtown, she worked the day
shift at a local hospital.
"Why don't you check out the radio? 105 is usually good." John asked.
As Diania turned the radio on the errie announcement continued...
Fourth Infantry Division(Mech) Fort Carson, Colorado. Seventh Infantry
Division Fort Lewis,Washington. Twenty-fourth Infantry Division (Mech)
Fort Stewart, Georgia. 82nd Airborn Division Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
101st Airborn Division, Fort Campbell Kentucky,...
John and Diania looked at each other, not sure what they were hearing.
"I don't know what the hell this is, why don't you try 107. They should
have something good on." John asked.
"Sure." Diania reopened.
Her hand reached down to change the station, hoping to hear some
music to set the tone for the evening. The announcement continued.
III Corps, Sixth U.S. Army, Fort Hood, Texas. 1st Cavalry division, Fort
Hood, Texas. III Corps Artillery, Fort Sill Oklahoma. Forces Command,
Fort McPherson, Georgia. First U.S. Army Fort Mead, Maryland. Second
U.S. Army, Fort Gillem Georgia.
"I don't understand. What is this shit?" John asked.
Anchorage, Alaska 7:15 p.m. AST
On his way to pick up his son from night school, Tom Manning was
enjoying his night off. He was transferred to Anchorage three years ago
with the Air Force. The time he spent with his son was about the only
way to get his mind of the crisis in China. Knowing these could be his
last days with him he left his pager home.
He pulled up to the high school, almost a half-an-hour early to make
sure he got a parking spot. He tilted the seat back, turned the radio on
and started to contemplate the future.
"49th Armored division, Austin Texas. U.S. Army, Alaska Division, Ft.
Wainwright, Anchorage, Alaska. 11th Air Force, Elmendorf A.F.B.
Anchorage, Alaska. Pacific Air Forces Command, Honolulu, Hawaii. Air
Combat Command, Langley A.F.B. Hampton, Virginia....
He did not need to change the channel, he knew all to well what was
happening. He had left his pager at home, and felt like a blind man in
the dark. What had happened he wondered. Had we already been hit?
Did we make a preemptive strike? How did the Russians respond?
Suddenly the terror hit, he raced out of his car to get his son out of the
school before it was to late. Racing up the steps he bypassed the
principals' office and went straight to room 32, opening the door, he
interrupted the teacher.
"Josh, we've got to go now!" He shouted with panic in his voice.
"What is the meaning of this, where is your excuse note?" Mrs. Neelly
responded.
Running over to Josh, he grabed him by the arms and forced him out of
the chair.
"Josh you've got to trust me. I'll explain latter." He demanded
And with that he threw his books down and darted out the door with
his dad.
"Dad what's wrong? Why are we leaving?" Josh asked.
"Get in the car, put your seat belt on and lock the door!" Tom ordered.
The car spun out of the parking lot of what might be the last images of
West Anchorage High and all who were in it.
"Josh, Listen to me, and don't say a word. We may be at war, the country
may have already been hit, perhaps with nuclear weapons. Anchorage
could be hit at any minute. There's a shelter on base for personal and
family. They're calling everyone up, as soon as we get there you going
to the shelter. I'll have to find out if the squad has already been called
up.' "But dad," Josh interrupted...'Son I want you to do what I say, it's
for your own good.
They approached the gates, the runway was filled with fighter jets
fueling up, and taking off. The sky was filled with vapor trails. Tom
could feel his chests vibrating as huge C-130 cargo jets took off. The
ground moved like small earthquakes. This was no drill.
Los Angeles 8:45 p.m. PST
Auther and Alicia sat watching in dismay as the list continued...
1st Air Force, Tyndall A.F.B., Panama City Florida. 8th Air Force,
Barksdale A.F.B. Bossier City, Louisiana. 9th Air Force, Shaw A.F.B.
Sumter, South Carolina. 12th Air Force, Davis-Monthan A.F.B. Tucson,
Arizonia."
"What the hell are we going to do? We can't stay here, were gonna die!
Alicia exclaimed.
"What can we do? The freeways' 'ill be jammed. It's got to be a mad
house out there. I say we take our chances here. Find out what we need
to do, and make the best of it. Besides they're probably overreacting
anyway." Auther said.
They slowly sat down on the couch listening to the list, praying that the
worst wouldn't happen.
"Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington D.C. Report to Richmond,
Virginia. Atlantic Division, New York. Report to Trenton, New Jersey.
Until further notice all public schools throughout the country will be
closed, and will be used for shelters. Additionally all private colleges
and universities are ordered closed. Local units of the National Guard
will be arriving tonight to set up shelters. All air traffic into the country
is ordered cancelled effective immediately. All international U.S. Ports
are ordered closed, effective immediately.
All applications for passports into the country are being postponed until
further notice. All border checkpoint stations will not be accepting
entry into the country until further notice. All U.S. financial and
commodity markets as well as Banks, Credit Unions and Savings and
Loans are ordered closed. All mail delivery will cease effective
immediately. All Non-essential agencies of the Federal Government are
ordered closed effective immediately. All noncrisis-relocation air, train,
and public transportation movement is ordered to cease effective
immediately. In addition anyone retired or otherwise who has any
experience with civil defense report to your local shelter. All persons
in the private sector working for shipping firms should report to your
local office for further instructions.
All employees of the postal system should report to your local post
office, you will receive directions there. All state, and local government
employees should report to your local place of work, you will receive
assignments there.
Please listen to your local television and radio stations which are now
broadcasting Emergency Broadcast Messages giving detailed
instructions on Crisis Relocation and where and how you should
proceed to go to designated shelters in your area. This message will be
repeated on radio and television stations across the country every hour
throughout the night and into tomorrow.
Los Angeles, California 9:37 p.m. PST
Alicia and Auther sat watching their television in disbelief,
"This is an Emergency Broadcast Message ,the message you are hearing is an
Authentic Message. This is not a test. Repeat this is not a test. Residents in
Laguna Hills east of La Paz Road will use Laguna Elementary and Laguna
Middle School on Paseo de Valencia.
Residents west of La Paz Road and South of I-5 will use Laguna High School
on Mawson Dr. off of Alicia Pkwy."
The message continued to drone on lists and lists of schools, and who should
go there. Just a dead voice in the background.
Under the Pacific...
Time & Location Unknown
Aboard the U.S.S. Georgia, a Los Angeles class Nuclear Ballistic Submarine,
An alarm went off breaking the monotony, LT. Mike Carthy, jumped from his
seat to inform the Captain and the X.O.
"E.A.M., receiving flash traffic, Emergency Action Message, recommend alert
one, recommend alert one." Rushing over to the Captain "Permission to
authenticate."The LT. asked.
"Permission granted." Responded the Captain.
The Captain immediately noticed the message was absent the normal "This is
only a drill" at the top and bottom of the teletype.
After opening a safe, LT. Carthy began to compare code words on the message
with the code words in the safe.
"Bravo, Tango, Charlie, Delta, Williams."The LT. read.
"Message is authentic sir." He answered.
"I concur Sir." the X.O. replied.
"Alright, Let's read it." the Captain ordered.
"To the Captain and crew of the U.S.S. Georgia, raise alert status to Defcon-1.
A Nuclear event has taken place. Tactical nuclear assault, in combination with
conventional attack, initiated by Chinese on Laos, and Vietnam. Potential for
attacks on the United States, extremely high.
Ordering the retargeting of all missiles against Chinese military targets.
Evacuation has been ordered of all cities, which is under way. Support of
Russians has been pledged. Launch orders, could be imminent. Stand-by
for target termination order." The message informed.
All but the Captain stood looking at the paper in disbelief. Yesterday they
were on standard patrol, and now this.
The Captain reached over to a microphone and started to address the ship
over the intercom system.
"This is the Captain. We have been informed that the Chinese have launched
an attack on Laos and Vietnam, consisting of both conventional and tactical
nuclear weapons. The President has ordered nationwide evacuation,which is
underway as I speak. The President believes' that a nuclear attack on our
country could be imminent. Therefore we are moving our alert status to
Defcon-1, and by order of the President we are retargeting all missiles against
Chinese military targets, and are awaiting a target termination order.
Pressurize all launch tubes for potential launch. This is the Captain. That is
all." He informed.
"Alright, we've got our orders. Begin retargeting for new target package, and
stand-by for target termination order." The Captain ordered.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana....10:37 p.m. MST
Monday, May 10
The President along with his battle staff and several close friends we're just
setting shop up in their new residence, a bomb shelter nearly seven-hundred
feet underground, in the middle of nowhere. There was food for almost
three months, showers, televisions, most of which would be used to monitor
the destruction of cities around the world. From here the President would
address the nation, or what was left of it, and inform those who were left,
on the progress of the war, in case they were wondering.
Chapter Four-On the Doorstep of Destiny
Tuesday, May, 11 2:00 p.m. BST
Bejing, China
Under heavy military guard, the triumphed new leader was on his way to
address the legions of people who had come out to see the new ruler for the
first time.
Monday, May 10 10:00 p.m. PST
Los Angeles, California
Auther and Alicia had given up on trying to make it to their vacation home
in the San Bernardino mountains. The freeways were a crushing nightmare.
It seemed more like 8:00 a.m. instead of 10:00 p.m. Instead, they decided
to wait until tomorrow, hoping that the traffic would be lighter than it was
now. Like death row inmates, not knowing if this is the hour or not they sat
and waited. Like the inmate hoping to here word of a pardon from the
governor, they waited.
"Continuing coverage now of the Crisis in China
we want to go now to CNNs'
Richard Bolen in Bejing for an update." Bob said, his eyes now bloodshot,
begging for sleep.
"This is Richard Bolen reporting from Bejing, where we've been told that
Chairman Zarain will be making an announcement shortly. The sky here is
filled with attack helicopters, and security is very tight on the ground with
guards everywhere, along with several light tanks along the perimeter where
people are gathering to see in person the new leader of China. Bob, one of the
helicopters is now landing on roof of one of the buildings here. Someone is
making their way out now and is heading for the podium."
Making his way out of the helicopter, the Chairman held his hands high to
the crowd.
"I am Chairman Zarain."he said.
The crowd erupted in cheers.
"Bob , can you hear this, the crowd is going nuts." Richard asked.
The Chairman continued his announcement...
"Today, China has begun to restore it's rightful place in the world. Today,
China is no longer laughed at. Today, China has RESPECT
!"
The crowd forces Zarain to pause as they drown out his speech with
tremendous applause.
After nearly a minute, Zarain is able to continue.
"Today I can declare, that the countries of Laos and Vietnam are now
interrgrated into a United China. Because of this, the most powerful nation on
earth, hides in fear, unwilling to face us like true warriors. But, our mission is
not complete. We will continue to liberate the oppressed! We will continue to
unite our lost countrymen, who have forgotten their heritage! This is our task!
This is our destiny! Again, I call on the United States to remove their military
forces to relieve the oppression of our citizens. If not, we will, and we must
free them ourselves!! If we are to have any honor at all, we must help them!
Unlike previous administrations who dishonored themselves, I will not allow
our people and our country to be dishonored again!!!" Zarain shouted.
The crowd again forces Zarain to pause in his speech. As the outpouring of
national pride began to show, the crowd shouted "Zarain, Zarain, Zarain!"
Zarain raising his hand to the crowd, continued,
"Yes, Yes my friends. We shall be victorious!! The oppression shall continue no
more! I, call on the United Nations to remove the shackles from our people
and to revoke the illegitimate treaty of '53. This treaty is illegal, yet they
allow it to persist!! Like slaves our people are helpless to resist! No more!
I demand that the United Nations stop allowing themselves to be pawns of
the oppressors, and live up to its charter, and help the oppressed!!!
The crowd continued chanting "Zarain, Zarain, Zarain!!"
Zarain motioning to the crowd to allow him to continue.
"My friends, A United China is our destiny, and a United China will be our
future! A final warning to those who would interfere with our destiny. The
resolve of the Chinese people will not be deterred. We are prepared to
achieve our goals by whatever means necessary. We will not hesitate to use
the full nuclear capability of China against anyone, including allies, of those
who would continue to oppress our people!!" Zarain demanded as he raised his
arms out to the crowd.
Amid the crowd, bodies were being tossed about like boats on an angry ocean.
"Bob I'm turning the camera around so the people back home can see the
crowd here. He's got them really fired up." Richard said.
The camera turned to reveal a sea of humanity, so caught up in their leaders
charismatic speech that they were oblivious to the fact that their country
stood at the brink of nuclear holocaust.
"Well, Bob, Zarain continues to make his flamboyant demands of the
international community and of the United States in particular, apparently
undeterred by the show of force the United States is making. Conventional
and otherwise. One can only pray that a solution can be found before a true
catastrophe happens. That's all from here Bob, if anything else breaks we'll be
here." Richard explained.
Chapter Five-In the Chaos of the Unknown
Tuesday, May 11
Atlanta 2:05 a.m.EST
"Richard Bolen in Bejing, thanks. Well, for those of you who are just joining
us whether in the U.S. or around the world we want to update you on The
Crisis in China
. Approx. three hours ago the new government in China, after
coming to power not even twenty-four hours ago, launched an attack,
consisting of both conventional and nuclear weapons against cities in Laos and
Vietnam. Saying that he is restoring the territorial integrity of China,
Chairman Zarain now proclaims that they have been reintegrated. Shortly
afterwards the United States began nationwide evacuations and a full scale
military call-up, the likes of which has not been seen since World War II.
Shortly after that the Russian government, saying that they are united with
the Americans began their own nationwide evacuations.
Earlier today in Brussels, NATO voted 19-0 to begin their own evacuations.
Of which includes Germany, England, France, Canada, and Italy among others.
Separately, NATO has voted again 19-0 to initiate a full scale military
mobilization.Virtually all of the industrial world is shutting down and waiting
for some type of a solution to be found in this crisis.
Earlier this morning in a sunrise vigil, the Pope said, 'That the darkest hour in
humanities' history has decended upon us'', and asked for people around the
world to pray for peace.
Shortly after that Chairman Zarain came out of hiding to address his people
and the world. He called again on the United States to remove its forces
from South Korea, and Japan. He also called the 1953 treaty that ended the
Korean War illegal, and said that the U.S. is an illegitimate occupying force
on the Korean Peninsula. And in his most daring statement to date he said
that china would use whatever means necessary to achieve its goals. Anyone
who interferes with their plans risks nuclear attack on themselves or their
allies. All of this has caused the biggest worldwide military mobilization since
World War II, and the ensuing worldwide evacuations.
So that is where we stand at this point." Bob explained, struggling to stay
awake.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana...12:20 a.m. MST
"Sir, if that isn't the confirmation you were wanting I don't know what is!
He is going to go after our troops in Korea." One of the Presidents advisors
said.
"May I suggest Mr. President, that we are in a pure reactive position, rather
than a proactive position, due to us not having a clear personality profile.
He is most definitely calling the shots at this point." Another advisor
answered.
"We have got to buy enough time to locate their subs. There are three of them
out there all of which have a range of 7,000 miles. We know they have twelve
launch tubes, and can hold up to twentyfour missiles. Each one has an
effective yield of one to fifteen megatons. We know where his land-based
ICBM forces are but if we don't take out the subs it'll be one hell of a mess.
Sir at a minimum it could be as little as 96 megatons, at a maximum we could
be talking 1,440 megatons."Gen. Riley responded.
"God almighty, what's the worst-case scenario for an attack of that
magnitude?" The President asked, a part of him not wanting to know the
answer.
"Well, Sir, depending on how much we're able to get evacuated, it could be as
high as 85-95 million casualties, with another 10-12 million from secondary
effects." The General answered, feeling like the doctor that has to inform his
patient that they have terminal cancer.
The room was silent, the President sat motionless. Trying to remain calm he
searched for a solution.
"What are the chances that the subs won't fire if we do a preemptive strike
on command-and-control facilities." Asked the President.
"Sir, we have to assume that the subs are on a fail-safe order to launch if
their homeland is attacked.'' General Riley answered.
"So we're nailed!!! Do nothing and he takes over Asia, then Europe, and who
knows what next. Attack, and the country gets hit with 90 or more megatons."
The President replied.
"That's why we have to find the subs. It's only a matter of time. Between our
forces and the rest of N.A.T.O.s'' forces we should find them relatively soon. In
the meantime, we have in combination with our NATO allies almost 4,200
A.S.W. Helicopters, along with our entire fleet of attack subs looking for them,
and dozens of reconisence satellites. Our entire A.S.W. helicopter fleet is
armed with their own tactical nuclear weapons, with standing orders to
destroy any sub that launches an unauthorized missile. If any are launched,
they should only be able to get a few off." General Riley answered."
"What's to stop them from hitting our own subs if we end up firing?" The
President asked.
"Sir, all of our pilots will know if there are any NATO subs in the location that
they're patroling. They will know if an unauthorized launch takes place, by
virtue of where it's coming from. They of course will be notified if any NATO
subs are ordered to launch and which ones." General Riley responded.
"Alright then, it would seem to me that we have got to stall this guy long
enough for us to locate the subs. However, I want contingency plans in place
in case he goes off the deep end. We have to consider that we may not find
any subs, and he launches a land based strike. We may also have to take our
chances with a preemptive strike and hope the subs don't go off, and that if
they do, they don't get much off. Now given our deadline, what do you think
our best course of action should be?" The President asked.
"I would recommend that we work out plans for a preemptive strike, while
attempting to stall him somehow.' General Riley answered.
"Alright then, get on it and get back to me A.S.A.P." President Wilson
demanded.
United Nations Bomb Shelter
Under Alberta...
Tuesday May, 11 11:45 p.m. MST
Representatives of the United Nations were just arriving at their new home
a massive two-story bomb shelter nearly three-hundred feet under the
Canadian Rockies.
Aides were hurrying about setting up the make-shift General Assembly room
for an emergency vote on the situation in China. Many representatives were
just now getting word of the attacks. The delegation from Vietnam and Laos
were furious to say the least.
An announcement came over the intercom system.. "Representatives should
meet in room 12-b. Voting on Resolution 922 introduced by the United States
will be taking place in 45 minutes."
Tuesday, May 11
Pyongyang, North Korea 4:50 p.m. KST
Walking into the main meeting room of the Presidential Palace, the North
Korean President held out his hand to welcome Chairman Zarain.
"Thank you for coming on such short notice. Under the circumstances I'm glad
you have decided to bless us with your presence.'' President Sun-Shoto said.
"Well I must say, that I am most pleased you have seen the light and the err
of your ways. You will be rewarded most handsomely for your assistance."
The Chairman responded.
"I must admit, I am most impressed with your unwavering courage against
the Americans. You have shown a willingness to stand up and take what is
yours. Something previous administrations were unwilling to do." President
Sun-Shoto answered.
"The Americans are weak, Mao was right they truly are Paper Tigers. They
will not risk their civilian populace in the defense of a foreign land. As we
speak they are hiding in fear, unwilling to fight like a true warrior. They call
up their military, but they will not risk a prolonged conflict in countries that
most of their people cannot find on a map!" Zarain replied.
"I would be careful not to underestimate they resolve of the Americans. Mao
was also right about another thing, if the populace supports an action they
will make a most formidable opponent. Therefore we must create a faultline
in that resolve." Sun-Shoto suggested.
Los Angeles, California
Monday, May 10 11:55 p.m. PST
A police car pulled into Paseo Fernando Ct. , with it's megaphone blaring
"This area has been ordered evacuated. All residents are to use the Laguna
Hills City Hall or the Laguna Middle School on..."
Auther slowly glanced out of the living room curtain, "Turn the TV and the
lights off!" He said franticly to Alicia.
She hurried around the house turning everything off but a night-light in the
kitchen. The remaining streetlights provided just enough light so as not to trip
over anything in the living room.
"What are we going to do?" Alicia asked, the fear now quite apparent in her
voice.
"We've got to hold out here until the morning, then we'll try to make a run for
it. We'll have to take the back roads through the canyon to get past the
checkpoints." Auther whispered.
Miami, Florida
Tuesday, May 11, 3:15 a.m. EST
Diania, and John had returned home, changing their plans for the evening
after the announcement began. They were unsure what to do. They had no
other home to go to. Their closest relatives were in Maryland, and the whole
east coast was on the high risk area list, not to mention in would take several
days to get there assuming they could make it past dozens of checkpoints.
Nor the fact that with gasoline now rationed they might not even be able to
get out of Florida.
Dianias' pager went off breaking the silence. They had turned off the
television hours ago, the news was just to depressing.
Diania slowly glanced down to read the message,
"Dear God!" Diania whispered under her breath.
"What, what is it?" John questioned.
"They need me at the hospital. Several people haven't shown up, and their
getting a lot of suicide calls." Diania said slowly. Realizing that she would be
seperated from her husband.
"Are you going to answer them?" John asked.
"You know I have to. Even if nothing happens, there's a lot of people that need
my help right now." Diania responded.
"Then I'm going with you!" John demanded.
"Dear God"; Diania mumbled. "They're only going to want authorized people
in the building. There's no way you'll be able to get in. Your gonna have to
go to the shelter. Take the cell-phone and I'll try to get a hold of you when
ever I get a chance.'' Diania said, trying to hold back the thoughts that this
was the last time they would see each other.
"I'm staying here! I'll stay in the basement "God, I love you!" John said, as
they embraced each other knowing that this is what had to be done.
Nanning, China
Tuesday, May 11, 3:20 p.m. BST
Several mobile missile launchers were beginning to raise their missiles
to the heavens, preparing for an act that would be anything but heavenly.
The countdown began, Ten, Nine, Eight,...
Tuesday, May 11
Strategic Air Command HeadQuarters
Omaha, Nebraska 12:21 a.m. MST
"God Almighty!" LT. Carther exclaimed. "Sir, you better get over here!" The LT.
demanded.
"What, do you have LT." Commander Tucker asked.
"Sir, I can't believe it. We're getting more launches from China. Location-
Nanning. Targets-Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and also Bangladesh almost
eighteen have been launched. The first of which has an E.T.I. of seven
minutes." LT. Carther explained.
"Alright, keep on it. I'm ordering another missile attack conference."
Commander Tucker answered.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana... 12:22 a.m. MST
A green phone started to ring, in the Presidents room. He knew exactly why
it was ringing. Reaching over to pick it up, he prayed that the worst had not
happened.
"This is the President." He said with a tinge of fear in his voice.
"Sir, we've got about eighteen more launches from China. Targets include
Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and Bangladesh. The first should be hitting in
six minutes now.
It's unknown whether they are conventional or nuclear. But I would suspect
that since we're seeing no major troop movements that is most likely another
attack with tactical nuclear weapons. Do you have a response planned Sir?"
Asked Commander Tucker.
"We are developing a response. However it will be held off as long as possible,
as we are attempting to locate the Chinese subs. Keep me apprised of the
situation. But for now continue monitoring their activities. President Wilson
ordered.
"Yes sir, we will stay in a monitoring position until the situation warrants."
commander Tucker answered.
Untied Nations Bomb Shelter
Under Alberta... 12:30 a.m. MST
Representative Rushto-Bonto of India was addressing the General Assembly.
"If this council is unprepared to take action against China, my country is
prepared take unilateral action of our own!" The Indian representative
shouted as he pounded his fist against the podium.
"Zarain has violated our air-space by firing tactical nuclear weapons over no
fewer than three of our states. We cannot guarantee this assembly that
there will be restraint on our part if he attacks my country. I demand that
the Security Council vote on this resolution!" Representative Rushto-Bonto
demanded as he stormed off of the stage.
The Representative of Iran was beginning to take the stage, as he would be
the last speaker before the Security Council Vote.
"I am here to ask this Council to think very carefully about the decision you
will make tonight. The future of the world may very well depend on it. The
Republic of Iran is formally pledging our moral support to the New
Government in China, as anyone who is an enemy of the Great Satan is an allie
of Iran. May we walk with Allah tonight." The Iranian delegate responded
holding his arms to the sky.
Atlanta 3:35 a.m. EST
Tuesday, May, 11
Lisa, was hiding in a closet with only a flashlight and a pocket radio. Listening
to the news reports she could do nothing but cry. There were riots going on
just a few blocks away from her townhouse. She feared her home would be
hit at any moment. The sound of fire trucks along with sporadic gun shots
from the police and neighborhood looters filled the air of the normally quiet
subdivision. The world was descending into chaos and there was nothing she
could do about it.
"Bob Simon here in Atlanta with breaking news on the Crisis in China. We
have just learned that the United Nations Security Council has voted 15-0 in
favor of Resolution 922 introduced by the United States. The Resolution calls
for a full economic embargo to be initiated immediately, several Canadian
Frigates in the Java Sea are already on the way to begin enforcement. It also
calls for the removal of the current administration "By all necessary means".
This in responce to the attacks by China against Laos and Vietnam yesterday,
and now the attacks against Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
All of these attacks consisted of both conventional and tactical nuclear
weapons. It's also in response to the very provocative statements made
against the United States and its allies.
The Pentagon estimates the death toll from these attacks, including first and
secondary effects, to be as high as 750,000. The Pentagon says that the body
count will go higher as in many cities fires are still burning out of control.
Whole sections of several cities are becoming burned out shells as the
housing construction is very conducive for fires.
Earlier this morning, what was left of the Vietnamise army along with about
twenty Mig-19s attacked the city of Pingxiang, which is just over the border
into China. Reports are that 13 of the 20 jets were destroyed, and the
Vietnamise ground forces took almost 3,200 casualties as they came under a
very intense air assault by the Chinese Air Force. Several fighter jets from the
Chinese Air Force perused the retreating Vietnamise ground forces
unhindered into Vietnamise air space and made several bombing runs over
the smoking ruins of Hanoi. Unofficial reports of Chinese deaths in the battle
are about 780.
Also this morning Thailand launched there own retaliatory attack against
China. For almost a half an hour the Thailand army shelled missiles, albeit,
conventional, against the Chinese city of Mengla, just over the border of Laos
into China. When the attack ended, nearly 8,200 civilians were dead. The city
was devastated.
The Chinese responded by launching tactical nuclear missiles against BangKok
and surrounding suburbs. Our own CNNs' BangKok bureau was destroyed
killing at least 45 of our own and an untold number of others in the area.
We are completely cut off. We're hoping to get reporters from our bureau in
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia into the area for a report. Perhaps as early as this
evening.
We can tell you that out of fear of reprisals by China, Cambodia and Laos have
not retaliated. However, it is unclear at this point how Myanmar and
Bangladesh will respond.
Also, we are getting unconfirmed reports that several divisions of the Indian
Army are moving into the state of Assam, perhaps in anticipation of a Chinese
attack on that eastern Indian state.
The regime in China has not responded to this yet, although Chairman Zarain
has scheduled a press conference in Pyongyang, North Korea. He says he will
have a most important announcement. One can only wonder what will happen
next in this fast changing crisis.
In a separate but still related story, we are getting reports of sporadic rioting
and looting across the country. Here in Atlanta the Nation Guard reports that
almost 35 people have been killed in the suburb of Norcross alone. Martial
Law has been declared in several cities including Atlanta, Los Angeles, and
Dallas. Sections of several cities are burning out of control. Firefighters from
as far away as Canada have been sent in to fight the fires. Similar reports
are coming in from around the globe, in Europe and Japan, especially where
they have taken similar actions as the United States. In Tokyo this morning,
fires set by rioters burned nearly two-and-a-half square blocks to the ground
before police and firefighters were able to get control of the situation.
We want to go now to CNNs' Richard Bolen who has moved his post to
Pyongyang, North Korea, where he is covering the Zarain press conference."
Bob explained.
"Bob, Richard here. Media from around the world are gathered here awaiting
for this announcement from Zarain. Speculation is mounting that there may
be some sort of alliance made between Zarain and President Sun-Shoto of
North Korea. We are,...there he is!" Richard exclaimed.
Under heavy military escort Chairman Zarain and President Sun-Shoto make
their way out of the corridor and into the press room walking side-by-side.
President Sun-Shoto took the podium first.
"I would like to thank all of you for arriving here to cover our announcement.
Almost two days ago a new government was installed in China. The leadership
of this government took bold action to secure Chinas' position in the world.
Action was also taken to secure the United States position and the position of
there allies. Seeing as how we agree on the future course of these countries,
North Korea today secedes its' sovereignty back to China where it rightfully
belongs. The result of these actions will of course mean that any attack on
soil that was formally North Korea, will be considered an attack on China.
So with that out of the way, I will now let Chairman Zarain speak. The former
North Korean President explained.
Chairman Zarain shook hands with the former president, then made his way
over to the podium.
"Today our tasks' are nearly complete. The Korean peninsula has now been
reintegrated into China. Along with several areas to the southwest of
former Chinese boundaries. Along with these territories, several bodies of
water have now been returned to China. Those include the Yellow Sea, whose
new name is now the Bay of Korea, the Gulf of Tonkin, whose new name is
now the Gulf of Hainan, and the Gulf of Thailand, whose new name is now
the South China Bay. I would suggest that all Non-Chinese vessels leave these
areas or they will be subject to consequences of violating the territorial
integrity of China. These bodies of water are now as much a part of China as
The Great Salt Lake is of the United States.
Separately, we will be setting up provincial governments in newly integrated
areas beginning tomorrow. I will be taking no questions. That is all." The
Chairman explained.
With that both President Sun-Shoto and Chairman Zarain, along with their
military escort made their way out of the press room and out of the building.
"Bob, that's all from here. Zarain said he would take no questions. So we were
unable to get his reaction to the Resolution passed by the United Nations. But
he is already talking as if he owns South Korea and several oceans he has
renamed. All of which he says are now territorial waters of China. So I guess
we'll just have to wait to see what the reaction is form the U.S. the U.N. and
N.A.T.O. Bob back to you." Richard said. Himself now realizing that the crisis
was escalating way out of control.
"Richard, thanks. That was CNNs' Richard Bolen reporting live from
Pyongyang, North Korea. Which is apparently now a province of China. We
want..."
The reports continued to drag on and on. All Lisa could do was listen and wait
for the world to end. Her attention to the report ended with a loud sound of
glass breaking. It was very close. Her mind raced to determine where it was
coming from. 'The living room!' Her home was being looted and she was
alone in a hallway closet. Gunshots rang out! She shivered in fear.
"Get him Kevin!" One of the loiters yelled. Several more gunshots rang out.
"Freeze!!" A Marine shouted from outside the house.
"Come out of the house with your hands where I can see them, or you will be
put down! This is your last warning!!" Another Marine shouted.
"Get those bastards!!" Kevin demanded. As he hid behind the living room
couch. Spraying bullets into the front yard, hoping to hit one of the Marines.
"Alright lets do it!!" One of the Marines ordered. With that they stormed the
house showering bullets into the couch where Kevin and his brother Tim were
hiding.
"Agh!!" Tim cried out as his chest was filled with lead.
"Tim no!" Kevin screamed.
Like Custard, he stood up in a futile attempt to hold back the Marines.
Taking several hits, his body went limp and fell over the arm of the couch.
Lisa was in the fetal position, scared like never before she passed out.
"Alright what do we have here?" The group leader asked.
"Appears to be two teenagers trying to rob the place. Sir, they've got almost
2,500 dollars on 'em. They've most likely hit somewhere else tonight."
"Alright, load 'em on to the truck. I'll call into Sector HeadQuarters, and let
them know."The Commander ordered.
Two Marines walked over to the truck placing the now limp bodies on the
bead.
"HeadQuarters, this is Peachtree, we've got two dead, with almost 2,500
dollars on 'em. We persued. A firefight followed, which ended with the two
put down. We've loaded 'em up. What's our next assignment?" The
Commander asked.
"Peachtree, this is HeadQuarters, be advised that your area contains a high
concentration of criminal activity. Head to Cater Blvd. police need assistance.
HeadQuarters out." They answered.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana... 1:15 a.m. MST
An aide walks over to the president with the latest satellite photos of eastern
India.
"Sir, I believe that a window of opportunity could be opening for us." The aide
said.
"Explain." President Wilson responded.
'Well the latest reconisence photos from eastern India show several divisions
of troops and tanks being positioned into the state of Assam. Along with
make-shift airfields being constructed in the region. They could be the first
real buffer zone to slow down the Chinese. It would help buy us time to locate the
subs." The aide explained.
"What's to stop Zarain from just using more nuclear weapons on the India
Army? The President asked.
"Well, Sir, we believe that Zarain is competent enough to understand that if
the Indian conventional forces take substantial losses that India will
physically be left with only one way to respond." Another aide answered.
"With a nuclear attack of their own?" The President interrupted.
"Yes Sir." The aide answered with resignation.
"Do you think that he is willing to risk that?" The President asked.
"Well Sir, we're unsure. However, we do believe that he believes India would
respond in that manner if it was their only means of response. Wether he is
willing to take a hit like that we don't know. He might be willing to. To show
his resolve." General Riley answered.
"I would recommend that we offer our support to the Indians. Hopefully they
can buy us some time." The General suggested.
"Make it happen." The President ordered.
"Yes Sir." General Riley responded.
Tuesday, May 11
Prime Ministers' Bomb shelter
Delhi, India 3:50 p.m.
"Sir, General Riley from the Pentagon is on line two." A secretary informed.
"Thank you. Put him through." The Prime Minister answered.
"This is the Prime Minister. To what do I owe the honor of speaking with such
a high military leader like yourself?" He asked. He already had an idea why
he was calling.
"I am calling to offer the support of the United States. We know you are pos-
itioning forces in the state of Assam. We have information that you might find
valuable on the location for much of the Chinese forces.This could be supplied
should the time come that it be needed." General Riley informed.
"And what must be done to receive this information." The Prime Minister ask-
ed.
"Nothing, we merely need you to buy us some time for us to locate the Chinese
missile subs. At which point we will initiate a preemptive strike against both
the subs and the Chinese land based missile forces. You may make decisions
as you see fit for the security of your country. Just distract him as long as
possible. We'll keep you informed on any military action that we may take
ahead of time." General Riley replied.
"Very well. I will contact you if the information becomes necessary." The
Prime Minister responded.
Tuesday, May 11 5:45 p.m. BST
Zarain Presidential Palace
Beijing, China
Zarain had summoned his top military advisors to assess the situation, and to
determine the next move.
The war room was quite crude. All were standing around a map of the world.
Occupied areas were highlighted along with the former North Korea. Arrows
had been drawn where their had been battles. Death and injury totals for all
areas, were displayed along the side of the map. The general location of U.S.
and other N.A.T.O. aircraft carriers was marked with circles.
"Your honor, this is where we are at now. The shock effect of our attacks on
Vietnam and Laos worked. Myanmar, and Bangladesh have put up no re-
sistence. Neither has Cambodia. Vietnam and Thailand have made minimal
incursions into the south. Some damage and casualties were taken. However,
it has amounted to nothing significant. A more worrisome development are
the troops and armaments that India continues to mass near the boarder in
the state of Assam. If we are to demand the eastern part of India north of
Bangladesh we will likely take heavy casualties. I would recommend that we
continue the use of tactical nuclear weapons along with a major assault by our
air forces against the Indian forces.
Also, at this point we are not in a position to defend the occupied oceans.
A direct attack against a N.A.T.O. vessel will bring a response from the United
States. There are already three Canadian Frigates from the Java Sea on the way now
to begin enforcement of the embargo.
If we are unable to take the eastern states of India I would move to take out
the Indian land based ICBM forces. This would remove the trump card from
their hand. With their ICBM forces out we would have free dominion over the
entire Indian Peninsula.
Nothing could stop us!!" General Ping-Chang said as his eyes began to gleam
when the thought of conquering the Continent of India entered his mind.
"I must protest these actions!! Zarain proclaims to be restoring our coun-
tries position in the world. You know as well I that he is taking us down
the road of ruin. The United States will not sit idly by and watch you kill
millions raining nuclear death across this continent. Do not fool yourself!!
You will bring about the end of our country. You can bet your life on it that
as we speak, our oceans are being filled with Nuclear Submarines from the
United States. They will respond in like fashion!! They will use you as an ex-
ample, just as Japan. Beijing will be erased from this earth! You will be placing
our people on the alter of warning to other countries!! I beg you to recon-
sider your plans! You should take what you have and forget the rest!" An
angry advisor pleaded, in a desperate attempt to change Zarains' mind.
"My dear friend, you are the one who is mad! Don't you realise that we have
the upper hand. They don't know where our subs are. If they did they would
have attacked by now. They haven't because they aren't willing to chance
it with our subs. We are in a strategic position! We must use it!!" Zarain shout-
ed.
As for you. You are the one who will be used as an example. An example of
what happens to traitors!
Guards take him away!! He'll be executed in one hour!!" Zarain demanded.
The anger very apparent as he pounded his fist against the table, scattering
the papers everywhere.
Two guards walked over to the advisor taking him by the arms.
"No! No! Do not be blind! Reconsider!" His voice fading away as they took him
down the corridor.
"Commander, you may go ahead with the attack as scheduled."Zarain ordered.
"Yes, Your Honor."General Ping-Chang answered.
Elmendorf Air Force Base
Anchorage, Alaska 12:55 a.m. AST
"We'll take good care of him sir." LT. Charles said.
"I know you will." Tim answered. "Josh I've got to go now. You need to stay
here. They got food, video games, a whole bunch of neat stuff. O.K." Tim said
trying to hold back the tears.
Josh was silent. They hugged each other for what might be the last time. Both
were quiet yet both knew what each were thinking.
Tim made his way over to his commanding officer not looking back at Josh.
He didn't want his last thoughts of Josh to be of him breaking down into tears.
Tim flew the KC-130. His job would be to insure that two F-16s' had enough
fuel to escort a B-52 into the heart of China, if they were given the order
to attack.
A voice came over the microphone in Tims ear. "Alright, listen up in there!
You've got two minutes till take-off. If Anchorage is hit Your first Recon-
stitution base will be Juneau International Airport, if it's hit Number Two
is Vancouver International Airport, if it's hit Number Three is Eugene
Municipal Airport, Eugene, Oregon. Number Four is Fresno Municipal Airport,
Fresno, California. Number Five is Bakersfield Municipal Airport, Bakersfield,
California. You will receive your new orders when you get there. If Bakers-
field is out, you are to land anywhere possible, weather in the U.S. or another
N.A.T.O. country. That is all. Good luck." The announcer informed.
Tim was thinking to himself 'God, it sounds like a list of where funerals are to
be held if the other ones get rained out.'
With that the plane took off into the unknown.
Atlanta 5:00 a.m. EST
"This is Bob Simon here in Atlanta. We want to go now to a breaking develop-
ment. We are getting reports that the 38th Infantry Division of the National
Guard out of Indianapolis, Indiana has been ordered to the Cicero section
of Chicago where a massive riot is being reported. It appears that hundreds
of people have stormed the Chicago suburb looting and burning everything in
sight. The A.P. is reporting that almost three-hundred fires are consuming the
area and that plume clouds can be seen for almost 15 miles.
The mayor of Chicago has asked that Martial Law be declared.
Reports are that it is literally a war zone with explosions going off continually.
A fire-storm is beginning to develop and the fire is starting to leap frog to
other sections of the city. Dozens have been killed from the fire and the local
fire department in the area is saying that it can't get to several apartment
buildings as their are gun battles going on between the loiters and the res-
idents of the area.
What started out as a a few people rebel-rousing at an Anti-Chinese rally a
few blocks away has turned into this. Dear God!" Bob said with a deepening
sadness in his voice. For the first time , the world knew that Bob wasn't a ro-
bot as he began to show the first signs of emotions since the crisis began.
Miami 5:20 a.m.
After gathering his most personal items, along with clothes for at least a
week, he was unaware that he would be unable to wash them, John made
his way out of the house. Walking down the sidewalk he turned to take one
last look. His mind started to drift. He had just finished putting on the new
porch last week. No more sitting outside watching the sunset. They'll be no
more early morning jogs. In a few days they'll be no more anything. The
sound of an explosion nearby snapped him out of it.
Turning away from his house he headed for the car. He pulled out of his court
hoping that there would be a court to return to.
The roads were deserted. Only Marine Personal Trucks were to be seen.
The air was thick with smoke from fires burning all over the city.
Like a late evening snow a light coating of soot was already beginning to fall
to the ground. A deadly thought ran through his mind, 'What if it's radio-
active' 'What if we've already been hit!' 'Maybe I should go back to the
house' 'No!' 'Stay on course!' 'Make it to the shelter!'
He felt as if he was already driving through a war zone. He now wished he
had fixed the radio last week like he wanted to. As he approached the inter-
cetion of 136 and 67th ave. The light was out. He noticed a nearby house had
been looted. The walls were still billowing smoke. It appeared as if it had
been put out recently. As he made his way through the empty intersection
a movement caught his eye. Stopping the car, he looked over his shoulder out
the back window. 'A body!' He put the car in reverse and raced over. Rushing
out of the car he froze seeing the person up close. His body was heavily
burned. His right arm looked as if it was about to fall off. He let out an
agonizing moan.
"What happened?"John asked.
"The mob." He whispered struggling to speak. "They came and took everything.
Tried to stop them. Too many." He paused trying to gather strength.
"How did you get burned? Where was the police?"John asked, glancing over
his shoulder to make sure no one was coming.
"Too much to handle. One was killed. His car was taken. They burned several
of us. Heading to shelter, they stopped car, many cars, pulled us out. Used gas-
oline." He explained as death drew closer.
"We've got'ta get you to a hospital. You need help. My wife, she's a nurse at...
John tried to explain as he was interrupted.
"Aghh! It's no use, there's nothing they can do for me now. Save yourself."He
pleaded knowing that he would not see the sunrise.
"God in Heaven, help us. Please, have we already been hit? There's fires every-
where. Why?" John questioned a part of him not wanting an answer.
"No. Loiters, riots, everywhere. You've got to go now, it's not..." With that his
body exhaled for the last time. His eyes open to the heavens.
"No! Wake-up! It's gonna be o.k. we'll make it." John cried out knowing inside
that it was to late.
He knelt by him. A cold silent body. Without a name. Dead because of mad-
ness. John was alone in the middle of hell. The early morning air was absent
of the cool sea breeze. A feeling of warmth punctuated the pre-dawn hour.
The aura of an approaching inferno outlined the horizon.
After several minutes of coming close to a nervous breakdown, John picked
the body up and placed him in the backseat. He was determined to make sure
he was remembered, not left for the wolves like a dead animal.
The raining soot was now impossible to ignore, as John had to use his wind-
shield wipers to clear it off. He continued with his original plans and turned
at 67th street to make his way to the Palmetto Expressway.
As he approached the entrance ramp he saw for the first time other humans.
There was an actual back-up, for what reason he was unsure. As the line slow-
ly moved forward he noticed a military checkpoint had been set up. Everyone
was being loaded up on military buses. An M.P. flagged him forward.
"You there, you'll have to leave your car here."The M.P. ordered as he walked
towards the car.
"What's going on? I'm trying to get to the shelter!" John questioned with exas-
peration.
"No civilian traffic is being permitted on the freeways. We'll be taking you to
the nearest shelter available. Now you can park the car over by that blue
van." The M.P. responded.
"How will I get my car back?" John demanded.
"Were taking an inventory. If it's damaged during or after an attack you may
request disaster assistance. Now lets move it!" He ordered, the agitation now
beginning to show.
John was dumbfounded. "Were on the brink of nuclear war and I'm worried
about getting my car back.'
As he got in line for the bus several Appachie helicopters raced across the
sky.
"Take a seat. We'll be leaving in one minute. We'll be heading for lower-risk
areas. Our destination and the two buses behind us is Orlando." The driver
informed.
As the bus begin to enter the freeway Johns' mind begin to race, 'Wait I can't
go!' 'Dianias' still in Miami!' 'I've gotta get off this bus!'
"Sir, I can't go! My wife is still in the city. I can't leave her! You got to stop
this bus!!'' John pleaded.
A guard made his way down the isle.
"Sir, you must sit down. You'll be much safer in Orlando." The guard answered
motioning to John to sit down.
"Look you don't understand, I can't leave her. She's pregnant!!" John shouted
as he got in the M.P.s' face.
The M.P. shook his head in disgust. His own wife was in a shelter on base.
He also had a daughter, only two months old. Everything seamed so secure
just a year ago. He hadn't thought twice about bringing a child into the
world.
"I'm sorry. There's nothing we can do for her now." He answered with a deep
frown.
John slowly sat back down. They were going through the city now. The free-
way was empty. The sounds of sirens could be heard everywhere. Just a
faint image of the sun could be seen through the smoke. It seamed as if it
was an eclipse, with rays of light peering through every so often.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana... 3:55 a.m. MST
The President and his Advisors were gathered in the war room for an update.
"Sir, about an hour ago the National Guard moved to secure Chicago. There are
reports of sporadic rioting across the country. Dallas, Atlanta, and Los Angeles
as well as Miami have reported intense localized rioting. However, Chicago is
by far the worst.
Our last report from about ten minutes ago has almost eight square blocks
burned to the ground, and the fire was still not yet under control." One of the
advisors explained.
"Jesus Christ!" The President mumbled to himself.
"Sir' I'm sorry, but their are more important matters at hand." General Riley
responded.
"There are several things developing that are both good and bad.'' General
Riley continued.
"Give me the good news first. We could all use some." The President request-
ed.
"Alright. About ten minutes ago one of our satellites over the southern Atlan-
tic detected the thermal signature that's identical to a Viper class Chinese
submarine, almost 300 miles due south of Rio, about 450 nautical miles off
the southern coast of Brazil. One of our attack subs The U.S.S. Richmond is al-
ready in route to intercept."General Riley explained.
"Excellent!!" The effect of the news on the President was obvious to all in the
room. "That's the best news we've had yet! I want you order our sub to take
it out if it so much as hears their hatch open." The President ordered.
"Yes Sir. However there are other events that you should be aware of. The
Chinese have engaged the Indian forces in Assam. At this point there have
been only a few tactical nuclear launches against the Indian forces. However,
we have detected that the Indians are fueling two Intermediate Range
Nuclear Missiles of the Indian Land based forces. Also, Zarain is fueling five
of his I.R.B.M.s'. We suspect that he may attempt to take out the entire Indian
land based nuclear forces. Furthermore, we have detected almost 20 divisions
of troops and armaments moving into North Korea. Along with almost five
hundred fighter jets that have taken stationary positions at North Korean air-
fields. We do believe that he is preparing to launch a major offensive against
South Korea." General Riley informed.
"What a day huh?" The President said sarcastically.
"Yes Sir.'' General Riley answered.
"Alright. I'm not getting us in the middle of Zarain and the Indians. Not until
we find those other two subs. And since Zarain isn't fueling any I.C.B.M.s' at
this point, I guess that means he doesn't want to play with the big boys. At
least not yet. So maintain current course. However I want a response design-
ed to slow Zarains' forces down incase he does invade. I want him to think he
is getting what he wants even if he has to pay a little for it. Do you under-
stand General?"The President asked.
"Yes Sir! I understand completely Sir. I'll get to work on it immediately.'' General
Riley responded.
"Good. Then if that's it, your dismissed." The President ordered.
Chapter Six-Into the Abyss of No Return
Presidential Palace
Beijing, China
Tuesday May 11 7:00 p.m. BST
Zarain stood at the eighth story window overlooking central Beijing, a mega-
polis far richer in history than even the oldest American city. Demolition
crews were still at work with the remaining buildings of the previous
administration. He wanted to leave no trace of the former govern-
ment standing. All across the city and country lower-rank officials who
refused to go along with Zarain were being sent to detention camps. They
were immediately replaced with officials who had already been preapproved
by Zarain before the coup.
Everything was falling into place. The coup was fast and efficient. There had
been almost no resistence from the public. The world was in shock at the
speed with which the southern peninsula of Asia had been taken. The In-
dians did not have proper warning to prepare for an attack. Although there
was the expected resistence being put up to the attacks in Assam, everything
was proceeding far faster then even Zarain had anticipated.
A guard knocking on the door broke his train of thought.
"Come in." Zarain answered with resignation.
"Sir, General Ping-Chang requests a meeting with you. He says it is urgent."
the guard replied.
"Send him in." Zarain answered ,unsure how urgent the meeting actually was.
The General walked in carrying several maps, and the weight of the world.
"Your honor, I feel I must inform you on the situation in Assam. We are taking
much greater losses than we anticipated, despite the use of four tactical nuc-
lear missiles against strategic targets of the Indian conventional forces.We lost
almost 1,900 men and almost 100 tanks and light personal carriers when the
Indians used their own tactical nuclear missiles to cause several mountains to
avalanche, cutting off two of the five major land routes into Assam. Our recon-
isence shows that the Indian forces are backing off, however this leads us to
believe that they will use the same strategy to cut off the remaining land
routes into Assam. Our forces will be pinned down and helpless. They will
either have to retreat or be picked off in a slow but deliberate counter-attack
by the Indians." General Ping-Chang explained with a sence of urgency.
"What do you recommend we do to counter this obstacle?" Zarain questioned,.
eager to hear the response.
"Well, seeing as how we haven't had enough time to build adequate airfields
in Bangladesh or Myanmar ,we're unable to launch a substantial air attack
against the back end of the Indian forces. Even if we could, the Indians would
be expecting an attack from behind and by now they're most likely building
up their defences. We could pull our own forces back from their current pos-
itions in preparation for another substantial tactical missile attack. However,
that would most likely prompt the Indians to begin escalating, even if we
contain the attacks to state of Assam. I believe the time has come for you to
make a decision on whether or not to launch a counter-force strike against the
land based nuclear forces.'' General Ping-Chang answered, himself knowing
the severity of the decisions that would were about to be made.
Zarain looked out the window. Taking a deep sigh he turned back to the Gen-
eral.
"What do you think the response would be from the United States?" Zarain
questioned. For the first time a sense of concern could be heard in his ques-
tioning.
"They have passed the resolution in the Security Council. It requires
your removal "By all necessary means." At some point there will be an in-
vasion. It is now just a question of when and on whose terms. Since India is
not a member of N.A.T.O. it's unlikely that it would bring about an immediate
nuclear response from the U.S. It would ,however cause the Indians to not
think twice about responding with the rest of their tactical nuclear weapons.
Which, if they were in Assam, everything west of Gulyang would be fair game.
We could take substantial losses." The General responded with resignation.
"Do you believe they would launch any of their I.R.B.M.s' before we would be
able to take them out?" Zarain questioned.
"I would have to say that there is a very likely chance that they would have a
several minute warning of incoming missiles. Even longer if the United States
warns them at launch. However, they wouldn't have enough time to fuel
their missiles, much less getting them launched. So it all depends on whether
or not they have pre-fueled any missiles. If they have, they would have time
to launch them, defeating the purpose of the pre-strike." General Ping-Chang
explained.
"Do you have any indication that they may have pre-fueled any missiles.?"
Zarain questioned.
"Our most recent reconisence is from the silos south of Jaipur. It's about eight
minutes old but their is no unusual activity. I would say that those are not
being fueled. The reconnaissance from the silos near Hubli is about 12 min-
utes old, but there was no activity at those fields either. Perhaps they feel no
need to take any action since they have been successful in stopping our ad-
vance into Assam. I would mention though, that they could be taking actions
now that we wouldn't know about for at least an hour." The General answered.
Zarain turned to look out the window. Saying nothing he stared aimlessly
looking at the city.
"Your honor?" The General asked.
There was no response from Zarain. Just silence.
After several minutes Zarain turned back to the General.
"Commander, what would be the necessary yield required to eliminate the
Indian threat?" Zarain questioned.
"For a total reduction, it could be accomplished with an attack equal to
roughly six megatons spread evenly oven the two missile fields. We already
have that amount fueled and ready to go. With a flight time of about 12-15
minutes." General Ping-Chang answered.
Zarain glanced at the map. The thought of a quick and decisive victory over
India was something to relish.
"My friend, today we will ride the chariot to a glorious victory!" Zarain shout-
ed, his arms reaching to the sky.
"You may proceed with the attack as soon as your ready. I will be moving my
office to the shelter as a precaution. I recommend that you do the same."
Zarain ordered.
"Yes, your honor." The General gathered his papers and hurried out the door.
Running down the stairs Zarains' order continued to ring over and over in his
mind. He knew that this route could be traveled, but there was a part of him
that was still in shock.
Los Angeles
Tuesday May 11 3:30 a.m. PST
The alarm went off waking Auther up instantly. He reached over to unplug
the clock. Alicia hadn't even budged. He rolled out of bed slowly so as not to
wake her . He headed downstairs to turn the T.V. on. He was curious as to
what was going on. 'Perhaps it's over and I can go back to bed' ,his mind won-
dered. Turning on CNN he noticed that Bob Simon had gone off the air. He was
already getting hoarse before he had gone to bed.
"....to go now to CNNs' Mark Richards, who is over Chicago in Chopper 7 for a
report on the situation there."
"Tim, Mark here. We're directly over Interstate 290. As you can see nearly
everything from Roosevelt Road south to Interstate 55 is gone. That's almost
22 square blocks. The wind has changed again and fire is heading west to-
wards Oak Park and River Forest. The area was evacuated earlier this even-
ing, so there's not many people left.
The National Guard is fighting this on three fronts. One, they moved in to sur-
press the riot. Almost forty people were killed this evening along with near-
ly 125 people being arrested. Two, they are fighting the fire both with water
from Lake Michigan and with fire suppression chemicals. And finally they are
beginning to construct a fire-break to slow the expansion of the storm.
A few minutes ago the first buildings to be demolished came down. They're
bringing buildings down from Melrose Park northeast to River Grove and then
east along Grand Avenue to Elmwood Park. All structures in that area...Wait!
Take a look at that! You can see what looks like an office park complex coming
down. Incredible! Well, we expect that to continue,most likely over the
next hour or so as the National Guard attempts to create a bare spot within the
nations' third largest city. Unbelievable!! Tim, we'll stay in position here over
Chicago to bring you any new developments if they break, but for now it
seems that if wind stays in the same direction this fire should burn itself out
when it hits the fire-break. We can only pray that the wind doesn't change
direction again. Tim I'll send it back to you." Mark responded with a sense of
resignation.
Auther rushed back upstairs to wake Alicia up. To his surprise she was
already awake as they bumped into each other in the hallway.
"God! You scared the hell out of me!" Auther shouted.
"Sorry! The television woke me up. What's going on? Is it over?" Alicia ques-
tioned. Although the look on Auther's face told her the answer.
"No. We've got to get out of here! Look, no one said we have to go to the shel-
ter. If we get stopped,we'll just tell the truth. We're going to our house in the
mountains. Besides they've got too much to worry about. There not gonna
waste their time with us." Auther answered, trying to convince himself as
well as Alicia.
They headed out the door. For all the good it would do they locked it behind
them. The morning sun had not yet risen. Up to this point Los Angeles had
been sparred the worst of the riots. Most unusual considering that L.A. nor-
mally received the worst of everything, whether it was riots or natural
disasters.
They headed for the freeway.
Datong, China
Tuesday May 11 7:40 p.m. BST
General Ping-Chang entered the elevator. Pushing the B-10 button he made
his way down to the launching center. A few minutes later the doors opened.
Several guards saluted the General.
"As you were." The General ordered.
As he made his way to the end of a long hallway, Commander Wu-Shan
greeted him.
"Welcome General." The Commander replied.
"No time for a welcome party. We're suffering far greater losses in India then
we anticipated. Zarain has ordered a preemptive strike against the Indian
landbased missile forces. Set for condition Yellow-Five." General Ping-Chang
ordered.
Alarms went off all over the building. At the surface, huge 200 foot wide con-
create doors began to open, revealing the missiles hidden below.
Back underground an errie recording could now be heard.
"WARNING...LAUNCH SEQUENCE HAS BEEN ACTIVATED...OVERRIDE
SEQUENCE HAS BEEN TAKEN OFF-LINE...TWO MINUTES AND FIVE
SECONDS UNTIL LAUNCH...WARNING... LAUNCH SEQUENCE HAS BEEN
ACTIVATED...OVERRIDE SEQUENCE HAS BEEN TAKEN OFF-LINE...
ONE MINUTE AND FIFTYFIVE SECONDS UNTIL LAUNCH...
There was no turning back. General Ping-Chang and the others stood watching
the monitors in silence. Waiting.
"WARNING...LAUNCH SEQUENCE HAS BEEN ACTIVATED...OVERIDE
SEQUENCE HAS BEEN TAKEN OFF-LINE...THRUSTER ACTIVATION IN
TEN SECONDS...FIFTEEN SECONDS UNTIL LAUNCH...''
Back above ground the night sky was lit up as the flames from the thrusters
began to fire. ''WARNING LAUNCH PROCEDURE IN PROGRESS...OVER-
RIDE SEQUENCE HAS BEEN TAKEN OFFLINE...LAUNCH SEQUENCE WILL
BE COMPLETED IN TWELVE SECONDS...''
The rockets slowly began to hover. Alongside of the rockets, giant elastic
cables started to snap away allowing the missiles to break free from their pro-
tective silos. Within seconds the missiles cleared the ground. The violent fire-
balls lead the way as the missiles raced towards their targets, leaving massive
vapor trails reaching into the night sky. Within seconds the night returned to
darkness as the fireballs faded away.
Back underground cheers and applause filled the control room. Many had
doubts that the missiles would work, having sat in the silos-in some cases
for ten years.
Strategic Air Command
Omaha, Nebraska 4:43 a.m. MST
Alarms began sounding all over the building. A computer voice could be
heard in the command room.
"WARNING...POTENTIAL MISSILE ATTACK AGAINST CONTINENTAL
UNITED STATES IS IN PROGRESS...STAND BY FOR TRAJECTORY CON-
FIRMATION...STAND BY...
Commander Tucker reached for the green telephone connected to the Presi-
dents' room in the bomb shelter.
This time a red light flashed instead of the normal green one. The President
did not need to be told why it was flashing. His stomach sank to the ground.
Reaching over he slowly picked up the phone. "Wilson here."
"Mr. President, I'm sure you know why I'm calling." Commander Tucker re-
sponded.
"How bad is it?" The President asked.
"Sir, we have detected six launches. Whether their M.I.R.V. or not we don't
know. We are also awaiting a trajectory confirmation. However, I need to
know whether or not to order the remaining bombers and supporting
tankers and fighters to take off." The Commander asked.
"Have the subs launched?" The President asked.
"No sir. At this point we have detected no sub launches. Only land based mis-
siles have been launched. However, although it's not a significant attack pat-
tern, it is consistent with a first-strike." Commander Tucker informed.
"Yes, I realize that." A long pause followed the Presidents' remark. "Alright,
go ahead and order the remaining bombers to take off and head to their fail-
safe points, and inform General Milton in Brussels. I'll inform President Yelt-
sin in Moscow of the situation."President Wilson ordered.
"Yes Sir. I'll be calling back as soon as we have a target list." Commander
Tucker replied.
Commander Tucker reached for the teletype to speak with bomber pilots
and Aircraft Carrier Captains around the globe.
In the cockpits of hundreds of jets and bombers and aboard N.A.T.O. Carriers
around the world, the orders came in.
"To all squadrons and their support crews. A possible nuclear missile attack
against the United States is under way. Your orders are ZULU.WILLIAMS.
TANGO.JUNO." The Commander informed.
All over the country B-52s', fuel tankers and hundreds of F-15, and F-16s'
began to taxi down runways, taking off into the early morning sun. Aboard
N.A.T.O. aircraft carriers around the planet F-14, F-18, Harrier Jump Jets, and
Mirage 2000s' , along with their own supporting fuel tankers began to take
off.
The combined military might of the world was converging on China for a
show-down that would determine the future course of humanity.
Under The Pacific...
Time & Location Unknown
Aboard the U.S.S. Georgia the E.A.M. light was beginning to flash. LT. Mike
Carthy held his breath as the teletype began to print the message out. Was
this the beginning of the end? Had a resolution been found? After authen-
ticating the message he ran over to the Captain.
"Sir, we have received an authentic message from Strategic Air Command."
LT. Carthy informed.
The Captain put his cap on. "Alright, let's read it." The Captain ordered.
"To the Captain and crew of the U.S.S. Georgia...Potential nuclear missile attack
against the continental United States is in progress. Remaining nuclear forces
have been activated. Awaiting trajectory confirmation. Stand-by for retaliatory
strike orders. End Message"
Strategic Air Command
Omaha, Nebraska 4:47 a.m. MST
The control room was frozen in time, as everyone waited for the target list.
What cities would vanish this morning? How many lives would end in the
next few minutes? All but the alarm and the voice of the computer could be
heard.
''WARNING...POTENTIAL MISSILE ATTACK AGAINST THE
CONTENINTAL UNITED STATES IS
IN PROGRESS...STAND BY
FOR TRAJECTORY CONFIRMATION...STAND BY...
WARN...TRAJECTORY CONFIRMED...TARGETS INCLUDE THE
FOLLOWING...JAIPUR.INDIA...DETONATION IN NINE MIN-
UTES...HUBLI.INDIA...DETONATION IN TEN MINUTES...
TRAJECTORY CONFIRMED...TARGETS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING...
The computer continued to repeat the message. The glacier that time was
frozen in suddenly melted. Although it was not blatant, the relief among
those in the control room was apparent.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana.... 4:48 a.m. MST
The red light began to flash again. This time it was expected. However, it
didn't make it any easier to answer.
"Wilson Here." The President answered.
"Sir, we have received a trajectory confirmation." Commander Tucker infor-
med. The President felt like his had heart stopped. "The targets are in India.
The Chinese are definitely doing a premptive-first-strike against the Indian
land based missile forces." Commander Tucker informed.
"God in Heaven, have mercy." The President whispered under his breath.
"Sir do you have any response ready?" Commander Tucker asked.
"As I said earlier, a plan is being worked on for a preemptive strike on the
Chinese forces. However, we may have to deal with another matter, because
it looks very likely that Zarain is getting ready to cross the DMZ into South
Korea. We're having to work up a contingency plan for that. Continue
current posture, and keep me informed of any new developments." The
President ordered.
"Yes Sir." Commander Tucker answered.
Hubli Missile Base
Hubli, India 7:20 p.m. IST
Sleep was gaining ground on LT. Rashana. He was on his tenth hour of a
twelve hour shift. Reaching over for another cup of coffee, a blip on the
computer screen caught his attention. Thinking nothing of it, he wiped the
glass, thinking it was just dust or something. It didn't go away. Setting the
coffee down he noticed two more blips. His pulse began to quicken. He
pulled his chair closer to the desk to further analyze the green dots on his
screen, which were now picking up speed.
"No, No, No! " The LT. mumbled under his breath. "Set alarm for condition
Code-9 Defence Alert! Repeat we have a Code-9 Defence Alert!! Get me the
Prime Minister!" LT. Rashana shouted, the sweat starting to run down his
face.
Prime Ministers' Bomb Shelter
Delhi, India 7:22 p.m. IST
The yellow phone stared to ring. At this point ,all that was certain was that
the call was coming from the Hubli Missile Base.
"This is the Prime Minister speaking. What's our status?" The Prime Minister
asked thinking that something minor had happened.
"Sir, we have a Code-9 Defense Alert!! A Chinese Missile attack is in progress!
Their targeting both our base and the Missile base in Jaipur. The first one will
impact in 2 minutes 5 seconds. We must retaliate!!" The LT. demanded.
"That demon!! How many missiles are fueled?" The Minister asked.
"Sir, we'll only be able to get one off, it's a 21/2 megaton warhead, and we'll
be cutting it very close.
It'll be clearing the ground about five seconds before the first missile hits."
The LT. explained as he tried to catch his breath.
"Can we hit any of their remaining missile fields?" The Prime Minister asked.
"No sir. They are out of range. The only military targets available are the
Chinese forces that are pinned down in Assam." The LT. answered.
"Go ahead and target the missile for the Chinese forces in Assam and initiate
the launch procedure. NOW!!" Prime Minister Rushto Bunto ordered.
"Yes Sir!" The LT. responded knowing that he had just 85 seconds left.
"Target missile number 57-S for the Chinese forces in Assam. Coordinates are
94.5 East Latitude and 29.2 North Longitude, and began launch procedure!!"
LT. Rashana ordered.
All sat in slience hoping the missile would clear the ground before the Chinese
warheads incinerated the complex. The remote computer voice was all that
could be heard.
WARNING...A MISSILE THREAT HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED...IMPACT IN
TWENTY FIVE SECONDS...WARNING LAUNCH PROTOCOLS HAVE BEEN
ACTIVATED FOR MISSILE NUMBER 57-S...LAUNCH WILL BEGAN IN
EIGHTEEN SECONDS...WARNING A MISSILE THREAT HAS BEEN IDEN-
TIFIED...IMPACT IN NINETEEN SECONDS...LAUNCH PROTOCOLS FOR
MISSILE NUMBER 57-S HAVE BEEN ACTIVATED...LAUNCH WILL
BEGIN IN SEVEN SECONDS...
Above ground the flames from the rocket began to ignite. Smoke began to
billow out as the missile started to hover. Through the darkness of night
the fireballs of the incoming missiles could now be seen. Their vapor trails
illuminated by the intense heat.
The Indian rocket began to pick up considerable speed as it cleared the
ground, racing towards the unsuspecting Chinese forces. It passed the
Chinese missiles only four seconds into flight.
At 7:24:22 the night ended. The darkness was forced to recede to the artificial
sun that was rising in the east. In the city of Panaji 95 miles away, the night
gave way to a brief dawn, at the same moment the citys' electrical grid went
off line. Cars, watches, pocket radios, all stopped functioning as the E.M. Pulse
passed through the city.
World War Three had begun.
In Hubli, the missile complex and all those in it had disappeared, vaporized by
the intense heat. The shock wave allowed nothing to stop it. In the blink of an
eye 145,000 lives ended.
The familiar mushroom cloud was beginning to rise several miles high
now as it sucked everything that remained into the vacuum. In several sec-
onds the sight would be repeated again in Jaipur.
In the lower atmosphere, missile 57-S was speeding towards the Chinese
troops. As it raced away from the detonation, it couldn't escape the reach of
the E.M. Pulse. The missile swayed off course. Having been disconnected from
it's G.P.S. satellite it's internal guidance system was now unaware of where
the missile was located or where it was headed.
Atlanta
Tuesday, May 11 6:56 a.m. EST
"This is Tim Donalds here in Atlanta ,where we are just getting an unconfirm-
ed report from the Associated Press that there has been several massive
Nuclear Detonations in the cities of Hubli and Jaipur, India. We are attempt-
ing to get in contact with our bureau in Bombay however, we are having
severe electrical problems with our equipment. One of our reporters from our
bureau in Colombo, Sir Lanka will be flying over the area in about four hours
for a report. Also, within the hour we should be getting a report from CNNs'
Chris Sanders on the situation in Bangkok, Thailand, which was hit by a small-
er nuclear attack by the Chinese in response to the Thailand Armys' attack on
the Chinese boarder city of Mengala.
We want to go now to CNNs' Kathy Bomen who is reporting from the Pentagon
Bomb Shelter somewhere under Montana." Tim Donalds explained, the fear
apparent in his voice.
"Tim, Kathy here. We've been informed that General Riley will be making a
brief statement on the Chinese situation in just a second. Right now your
guess is as good as mine as to what's going on." Kathy answered. Wondering
if she would ever see her parents again. Feeling guilty that she was in the
shelter and they weren't. Wondering if she would ever see daylight again.
Atlanta 7:00 a.m. EST
Lisa slowly drifted out of her minor coma. Despite the trauma, she was well
aware of the reason why she found herself in the closet with a pocket radio.
Trying to gather her thoughts she staggered out into the living room. The
window had been shattered. The lamps had been smashed. On the
couch were blood stains, with a trail leading outside. Expended bullet shells
were littered all over the front yard. Stepping outside, sun beams broke
through the soot and smoke that was filling the air. Horrified at the thought
that it could be radioactive, she ran back into the house, grabbing the radio
and headed straight for the closet. Dozens of thoughts crossed her mind. "Had
we been hit?' 'How bad was it?' 'Was anybody left?' She turned the radio to a
local station that was broadcasting CNN, hoping it would still be on the air.
Unfortunately, it was just the end of the beginning.
Pentagon Bomb Shelter
Under Montana 5:02 a.m. MST
With a pointer in his hand General Riley made his way to a map of Asia.
"I'm here to make a brief statement to the press. There will be no questions
afterward. Approximately twenty minutes ago the Chinese launched a premp-
tive nuclear strike against the Indian land-based missile forces. The attack
consisted of six missiles, each of which had an effective yield of 1 Megaton of
TNT. The missiles were launched from the city of Datong, China. The attack
pattern consisted of three missiles hitting each of the cities where the Indian
missile forces were located. Basically there were three megatons of TNT ex-
pended on each target. Those cities were Hubli, which was in southern India,
and Jaipu, which was in northern India. Initial death estimates are around
455,000 total in India, with severe damage to the surrounding infrastructure.
Shortly before the Chinese missiles hit their targets the Indians were able to
launch one of their missiles. It was launched from Hubli, we are unsure of it's
intended target, however we believe that it didn't hit . The missile hit
the remote Chinese city of Qamdo, in the Ningjing Mountains. It consisted of a
21/2 megaton warhead. Initial death estimates there are around 70,000.
That is all the information we will discuss at this point. We'll be having an-
other press conference at the appropriate time. Thank You." General Riley
as he walked off the stage.
Congressional Bomb Shelter
Under New Mexico 5:15 a.m. MST
Representative Nick Samson sat in slience. His body was cold. He was truly
alone in the world now. The unthinkable was happening and he was leading
the charge making sure the U.S. had no defence against it. Any minute
now countless millions could die and it would be his fault.
Majority Leader Donald Winston was taking the stand.
"My fellow Americans, in the last half-hour almost three-quarters of a million
people have died at the hands of the Chinese! In the last half-hour nearly as
many people have died as have died in all the wars that our country has
fought since its' birth! Including the revolution! I need not remind this body
that the Chinese have threatened our country as well!! As we sit here our
cities are burning, our people are frightened, our economy wrecked!! All this
and the first missile hasn't even hit yet!! Why?" The Majority Leader quest-
ioned. His anger apparent to all in the chamber.
After a brief pause, the Majority Leader continued his address, the rage even
more intense. "It is because of people like Mr. Samson ,who continue to
wallow in their denial! It is because of people like Mr. Samson ,who continue
to believe that because the Soviet Union is no more ,that everything is just
dandy! Well I got news for you it's not!!
For too long this country has not invested in adequate civil-defence, our people
sit bewildered in fear, with no plan in place! We did not maintain the shelters
that we did build! Why? Because it cost to much? Well ,let me tell you now;
nothing is more costly than losing the lives of 30-40 million of our people!!
All because this Congress and others before it did not want to spend the
money! No! Instead you vote yourselves a raise! Shame on you! Shame on you
all!!
I could almost go with the idea that it cost to much, but worst of all, the most
egregious atrocity is leaving this country without an adequate missile defence
system. Something that is blatantly un-constitutional!! My friend Reagan was
right, it doesn't have to be an all out war with the Soviet Union, it doesn't
even have to be the Soviet Union!
As it is now, we have very little chance of stopping just one missile, even if it
was launched accidentally! All because this body wanted to save money! How
much are a million lives worth? This crisis should be the wake up call. Unfo-
rtunately it may now be to late! It's bad enough to try to get it passed and
just not have enough votes, but to have the votes and the bill be filibustered
by Mr. Samson is outrageous!! I'd bring him up on treason charges if I could!!!
My fellow Americans I urge you to vote yes on Resolution 567-which states
that the United States Congress Shall Declare War on China-effective immed-
iately.
And for what it's worth I urge you to vote yes on House Resolution 522-which
calls for the immediate implementation of the SkyShield Defence Initiative.
Finally, I would plead with this body to vote yes on the Senate bill122-which
calls for the immediate withdrawal of the 1972 A.B.M. Treaty, it has kept our
hands tied for long!! Mr. Samson-may God have mercy on your soul!!"
Majority Leader Winston shouted as he stormed off the stage, the rage app-
arent to all in the Chamber.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana...5:30 a.m. MST
The President was alone in his quarters, the future of humanity weighed on
his mind, like a gigantic boulder pressing on his conscience. A knock on the
door brought him back to the shelter.
"Enter" The President responded.
The Secretary of Defense entered the room. "Sir, sorry to bother you, but I
need to update you on the status of "Operation NightHawk". Our forces from
Sector "G" have been launched and are on route to their fail-safe points. They
should arrive within three hours. The U.S.S. Georgia, Virginia & Atlanta will
be in position within the hour. All report that they have received their target
coordinates, and have reset their missiles. The U.S.S. Richmond has not been
located by the Chinese submarine off Brazil, and is in position now to engage
them if necessary. However, the location of the other two Chinese Missile Subs
is still not known." The Secretary explained.
"So far, so good. Now, we just have to hope that nothing happens in the next
few hours." The President answered.
"Sir, It should be noted that once "Operation NightHawk" has been imple-
mented it will take our forces at least 1 1/2 hours to reach their targets."
The Secretary answered.
"What is our status on "Operation Temporary Exit" ?" The President asked.
"Sir, General Daniell, Head of Joint U.S./South Korean Defence forces reports
that they are ready and in position. The U.S.S. Baltimore reports that they
will be in position within the hour, and are awaiting coordinates of the Chinese
forces in North Korea, and of the transport routes, once the Chinese begin
their advance." The Secretary responded.
"What about the Russians, have they made any questionable military
movements at this point." President Wilson asked.
"Sir, There have been no questionable military movements by the Russians
at this point, other than the increased alert status of their Nuclear Forces,
which has already been made public. There have been no movements of
conventional Russian forces towards Europe/China or anywhere at this point.
They are maintaining stationary positions. It should also be noted that Zarain
has entered a pause in the advance on India. There have not been any more
missiles fired, at least up to now. Zarains conventional troops are also moving
back into China, despite having taken out the Indian forces in
Assam." Secretary Christopher answered.
"Why do think there has been a pause? He's in control right now, and he
knows it. He should be expected to play the advantage while he's got it? Could
there be any sign of weakness in the background going on? If we are to assume
that he will continue, why isn't he doing it now? This is the best chance he's
got. For some reason he has lost some of his confidence, despite having taken
over all of southeast Asia, and de-fact-to taken over India, all without any
major resistence. Why?" The President asked, his curiosity now stirred, hoping
that there could now be a tactical advantage to exploit.
"It's hard to tell ,Sir. Right now his trump cards are the subs. As long as their
positions remain unknown he has the advantage, as least tactically speaking.
The only possibility is that he has lost contact with one or all of the subs, and
is unaware of their location. However, I would caution that it is impossible
for us to know if he's lost contact with any of the subs when we don't even
know where their at, other than the one off Brazil, which we are monitoring.
It could be just a general pause. However, I tend to agree with you that he
must know that this will be as good as it's going to get. If he's going to do
anything else now would be the time." Secretary Christopher commented.
"Keep me informed." The President ordered.
"Yes Sir!" The secretary answered, as he made his way out of the Presidents'
office.
Over The Pacific...
Time & Location Unknown
The E.A.M. teletype was beginning to flash in the cockpit of Tom Mannings'
plane. The message began to print out. His copilot was confirming the
command.
"What's it say? What's it say?" Tom asked with impatience.
"It's authentic, it says Diamond.Roses.Eagle.Freedom." His copilot answered.
"Well what the hell does that mean?" Tom demanded.
Mike flipped through the command manual to see what the orders where.
After stopping on page 27 his eyes began to drift aimlessly out the window.
"Mike, get with it! What the hell does it mean?" Tom ordered.
"We're with the initial-strike force. Code name "Operation NightHawk". We're
to proceed to fail-safe point over Osaka, Japan. Upon implementation of "Oper-
ation NightHawk" we are to follow F-16s from Squadron K, along with their
supporting Stealth-Bomber into China for Strategic Nuclear Bombing of the
Chinese Missile fields in Datong. Jesus Christ!" Mike answered still in shock.
"Alright, Alright, stay calm. We're gonna go to our fail-safe point, and wait
for further orders. If we have to go, we are going in there and we're not
looking back! You got that!?" Tom asked with the tension in his voice be-
ginning to show.
"Yeah, I got it." Mike replied sarcastically.
Fifty miles South of Orlando, Florida
Tuesday, May 11 8:05 a.m. EST
Johns' mind kept drifting towards Diania, hoping that she would be alright.
All was quiet on the bus. With the news of the attack on India coming over
the radio, most of the passengers had resigned themselves to the idea of be-
ing vaporized or dying by radiation sickness shortly afterward. Needless to
say it was a very somber mood on the ride to the shelter. The normally
heavy traveled Interstate 4 was all but deserted, they were headed to Disney-
world, a symbol of eternal hope to children and adults around the world,
that hope was in short supply this morning, as China headed full speed on a
collision course with oblivion.
Presidential Palace Bomb Shelter
Beijing, China 9:10 p.m. BST
Zarain was alone in his quarters, awaiting the response of the United States,
or lack of one. In a matter of hours he had done what neither Hitler or any
other warrior before him had been able to do;conquered more than 2/5s of the
worlds population, and what the Soviet Union had been unwilling to do
throughout its entire existence-stare the United States of America in the
eye without blinking. All that remained was Europe and the United States.
He was sure that NATO, despite having stared down the Soviet Union, would
collapse once an actual nuclear attack took place. He was certain that the U.S.
would not risk Miami for London.
A knock on the door broke his train of thought.
"Enter" Zarain commanded.
General Ping-Chang entered the office.
"My Lord, please forgive my disturbing you. I feel I should inform
you of our progress with the attack on India." The General answered, hoping
that the good news with India would get Zarain back into a better mood.
"Go ahead." Zarain answered.
" My Lord. Our satellite reconnaaissance of the target sites confirm that it was
a complete success. Both missile fields were destroyed. The entire Indian land
-based ICBM forces have been eliminated. You should be aware
that the Indians were able to get one missile off before ours hit. It is safe to
say that it went off course, probably being confused by the E.M. Pulse when
ours detonated. It hit near the city of Qamdo. Our best estimates are that it
had a yield of approximately 2 1/2 megatons. The city is gone. Rough esti-
mates of casualties are around 80,000 with another 15,000 dead by
secondary effects. They died with honor, My Lord." General Ping-Chang
explained, himself knowing that it was going to get much worse.
"Yes, I know-for the Greater China. Is there anything else that I should know
about?" Zarain questioned, unphased by the report.
"If it's any consolation, the Indian death toll is at least 500,000. Their govern-
ment is in complete disarray, they have pulled their forces out of Assam, back
into interior India, despite having several dozen tactical nuclear weapons left.
Most likely they are afraid of the potential response if they use them. Shortly
before our attack on the Indian missile fields, our troops in Assam were re-
treating. Currently, they are stationary after having pulled back about 31
miles. Would you like me to order them back into Assam?" General Ping-
Chang asked.
"Not at this point. I want to wait until we get a formal surrender agreement
signed by the Prime Minister himself. I want them to maintain their current
position. I want you to get in contact with the Prime Minister or his rep-
resentative, you inform him that as a condition of the surrender, there will
be no further nuclear strikes on the Indian people, in exchange for a complete
disarmament of all conventional Indian forces, I also want our troops to have
free passage into Delhi, any attacks on our troops will invite further nuclear
attacks on India. You tell them they have 24 hours to decide. If there is no
response we will assume that they do not want to surrender, at which point
any target in India will then be susceptible to further nuclear strikes. You
may invite one of their representatives to meet with you in Zigong to work
out the details of the surrender, the final version of which must meet my
approval. Is that understood?" Zarain questioned, hoping to wrap India up
as quick as possible.
"Yes, My Lord. I will get in contact with the Indian representative as soon as
possible. I would like to discuss one other matter before I do." The General
answered.
"Go ahead." Zarain responded.
"My Lord, it is safe to assume that the Americans are well aware of the loca-
tion of our missile fields in Datong and in Baotou, and it is safe to assume that
at some point they will attempt to launch a preemptive strike. I suggest that
while we may not be able to stop them, it may be possible to provide us with
a much needed delay in their plans." General Ping-Chang suggested.
Zarains eyes lit up. It seemed that nothing could satisfy his thirst for power
more than humiliating the Americans. He was eager to hear the Generals plan.
"You may proceed." Zarain ordered.
" My Lord, as you know ,the streets of Beijing are full of American re-
porters eager to bring the story home to the bloodthirsty audience." The
General was interrupted by Zarain.
"If you are suggesting that we take some of these reporters hostage, I think
it will get us nowhere." Zarain responded.
"I am suggesting that we do just that, only we make it a little interesting. We
need to sear a most horrifying image into the minds of the American public."
The General explained.
"And how do you suggest we do that?" Zarain questioned.
"You know as well as I do how influential television can be. I'm suggesting
that we take several media crews hostage and confine them to the outside of
our missile base in Datong, and we will broadcast it live to the world. It will
not stop them from attacking but it will give their president something to
think about before he pulls the trigger." General Ping-Chang answered.
"Very interesting, I like it. Have one of the Security Units detain
some of the media crews. Bring them to me before you take them to Da-
tong." Zarain ordered, with a sadistic grin on his face.
Chapter Seven-The Belly of the Beast
Los Angeles, California
Tuesday, May 11 5:20 a.m. PST
It was another California sunrise, the one that entices so many to move to
the state that sits atop a fault-line. It was a sunrise to reflect upon, the keep-
er of life. How ironic that it might now be the taker of life.
Auther and Alicia were just making it out of the Cleveland National Forest.
To their surprise, they encountered no guards. The trip had been, up to this
point , uneventful. They had been sheltered from the riots, and general chaos
that had now consumed the world. They were headed for their vacation
home in the San Bernardino Mountains, normally a 2 1/2-3 hour drive, how-
ever this morning was different. They avoided the freeways for fear of being
stopped at a checkpoint. Today it would take perhaps twice as long.
"Did you bring everything?" Alicia asked, knowing full well that if anything
was forgotten they were not turning back.
Auther looked sarcastically at Alicia, "I forgot the checkbook."
Alicia had no response, for once she hoped that the mortgage company would
be around next month to harass her about their bill.
"Of course I've got everything. Extra gas, at least two weeks worth of food,
and we've got another two weeks of food left in the mountains. Radios, extra
batteries, extra cash, about a weeks worth of water, and we've got enough
milk jugs in the house that we can fill up to equal another week maybe two.
The only thing we're missing is a geigercounter, but don't worry about it. We'll
stay in the basement. First thing we do when we get there is move all the
food and water along with the furniture down there.We've got the extra bath-
room so we should be alright." Auther answered placing his arm around
Alicia trying to comfort her.
Miami General Hospital
Miami, Florida 8:30 a.m. EST
Sleep was gaining ground on Diania. After spending hours trying to counsel
dozens of people out of suicide and help them remember who they were, she
was emotionally exhausted. She prayed John was unharmed. Having seen the
riots on television, and with no answer at the car phone, she feared the worst.
The voice on CNN droned on in the background. It was now her shift to stand-
by watching the news. They were having mock drills all night shifting the en-
tire hospital into the basement. Their best time yet was eight and a half min-
utes. If news of an attack came on the television she would hit a yellow
button on the wall, about two feet from where she was sitting. All over the
hospital a siren louder than a rock concert would go off. Once everyone was in
the basement, the door would slam shut, at which point a red button would
be pushed informing a supervisor with the Federal Emergency Management
Agency, watching a central computer with a map of the United States of who
made it safely to shelters and where they were located.
Beijing, China 10:00 p.m. BST
Richard Bolen and his camera crew were pumped with adrenalin. The world
was in the midst of World War III, and they were going to make sure that
whoever was left would see it first on CNN. The tension was unbelievable.
Richard knew that history was in the making. This was going to be bigger
than Pearl Harbor. His palms were drenched with sweat, so much so that
his hands continued to slip along the steering wheal. He was looking for signs,
troop movements, people being evacuated, anything that might indicate an
imminent U.S. attack. After crossing a freeway overpass a loud noise rang out,
breaking the tense silence. Almost immediately thereafter he lost control of the
wheel, "Hang on everybody!" Richard shouted out as he attempted to steer
the car into the side ditch.
Atop a local hotel, Wu-Chan, a trained sharpshooter in the Peoples' Army of
China was satisfied. Picking up his cell-phone he called into headquarters,
"This is Wu-Chan, suspects have been disabled, move into position to acquire.
Wu-Chan out."
"Is everybody okay, no broken bones?" Richard asked as he looked at their
left tire. He knew all to well that they weren't. The tire was in shreads, this
was a planned accident.
"We've got to get out of here, there's going to be troops or the Beijing police
coming along any minute. Pick up anything you can and let's get the hell out
of here. I'm calling into Atlanta to file a report." Richard exclaimed.
Reaching in his pocket for his cell-phone he called into Atlanta for what might
be his last report.
"CNN Asian division, this is Mike, how can I help you?''
"Listen carefully, and do not hang up!! This is Richard Bolen in Beijing, there's
a major development going on here. We have taken gun-fire. Our car has been
taken out, get on the horn and interrupt Tim Donalds, if we don't make it in-
form the Pentagon that we think Zarain is looking for hostages, we don't know
what he's planning. We'll be set up for satellite backup in two minutes,
Richard out."
Tim Donalds was interviewing Indian Civil Defense officials on the extent of
the damage in Jaipur when he heard Mikes' voice in his ear, "Tim ,we'll be
interrupting you in 65 seconds, Richard Bolen has a major report coming in."
Tim broke into the Indian official, "Thank-You sir, but we have a major
story coming in from Beijing. This is a CNN breaking event...Tim Donalds here
in Atlanta, continuing our coverage on The Crisis in China we will be cutting
into Richard Bolen in three, two ,one....."
"Richard Bolen here in Beijing, where just minutes ago our car was shot at
with a high powered weapon, forcing us off the road. We believe this to be
the work of Zarain. We have reason to believe that he wants to take hostages.
For what reason we don't know..."
Seconds later sporadic gun-fire rang out, Richards' camera man was shot in
the legs.
To the viewers around the world, all that could be seen was the ground, all
that could be heard was a panic-strickened Richard.
"If anyone can hear me, we are under attack, I can't see from where. Aghhh!"
Richard fell to the ground, having taken hits in both his left leg and shoulder.
"Richard, are you there, Richard," Tim asked hoping the worst hadn't happen-
ed.
Richard lay motionless, unable to move. The camera was still on, all the world
could see now was a military boot. Wu-Chan walked up to Richard, "How do
you feel now, brave reporter? Your really bringing the story home now ,aren't
you?" Wu-Chan asked with a malicious grin on his face. With that he stepped
on the camera, smashing it into pieces.
Tim was silent.Trying to speak, "We, uh, apparently have lost contact with
Richard Bolen in Beijing." Tim tried to regain his composure "We uh, have
some other developments that we are following and need to let you know
about. CNN has just learned that about 45 minutes ago, meeting in a special
emergency session the Congress has officially declared war on China, saying
that "The new administration represents a threat to peace not seen since
Hitler"-the declaration calls for-"The immediate removal of the Chinese
government and the destruction of every aspect of the Chinese military,
nuclear and conventional, by all necessary means, as soon as possible. We are
told that President Wilson will be addressing the nation shortly, however, we
are unaware of the exact time." Tim explained, the images of Richard still
replaying in his mind.
Datong Missile Base
Datong China 11:10 p.m. BST
"What are you going to do with us?" Richard asked trying to create the illusion
that he wasn't afraid.
Zarain stared. Minutes passed. "You will be my insurance. You will
broadcast your pain to the world." Zarain answered.
"If you think for a minute that the U.S. won't attack this place just because I'm
here, your full of shit! Their going to nuke this place. They'll drop more bombs
on this place than you've got in your entire arsenal!! Your going to fry!!"Rich-
ard replied, menace in his voice.
An evil smile enveloped Zarain. "You petty fool. All I have to do is stall your
President long enough for me to get my subs launched. "
"You are the one who is the fool. Don't you realize that we have enough war-
heads to survive an attack ten times your entire force.Why do you think we
have so many subs? You can't win!! China will cease to exist as a nation!!!"
Richard shouted, hoping to reach some part of Zarain that was sane-if there
was any.
There wasn't any.
"Take him away, I'll make the announcement shortly." Zarain demanded.
Tuesday, May 11
Atlanta 10:15 a.m. EST
"This is Tim Donalds here in Atlanta, we have just received word that Zarain
will be addressing the world, in particular the United States. Lets go now to
Zarain..."
"To the American people. A short time ago actions were taken to restore the
territorial boarders of China. These actions are nearly complete. We have de-
manded specific actions to be performed by your government, and yet despite
having not fired one shot at the United States your government declares war
on China, and through their own actions has brought the world to the edge of
nuclear holocaust! This is unacceptable! We know that if an attack comes
by your country that our missile base in Datong will be hit, I am here to tell
you that we have taken several of your news reporters hostage, and if your
President orders an attack on Datong that he will be committing the murders
of not only innocent Chinese, but also the murders of several helpless Amer-
icans. In cold blood he will order their executions. Only you can apply the pro-
per political pressure on your President to change his mind. It is up to you."
Zarain ended his speech with a sweep of Richard and his camera crew.
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana 8:20 a.m. MST
"Jesus Christ!! That low down.." The President was interrupted by General
Riley. "Sir you must not let this affect your judgement, he is merely trying to
do this to get to your emotions, of which he has none. You must remain
focused. I realize it doesn't make it any easier, but those lives may have to be
sacrificed for the greater good of the country.'' A momentary pause followed
the Generals' remarks. "Do you have your speech ready?" The General
asked.
"I'll have it ready shortly" President Wilson answered. The President had a
new found purpose. Zarain was no longer some abstract figure in a foreign
land. The sheepskin had come off and Zarains' true nature had been shown to
the world, for all to see.
Under the Atlantic...
Exact Position-Unknown
The submarine rested at the bottom of a cavern, it's engine turned off. It was
rigged for ultra-quiet. It sat motionless awaiting an order from Zarain. The
crew remained in their stations not moving.
The slightest sound could give away their location to an American Sub waiting
to send them to the bottom of the ocean. Captain Wa-Shen and Commander
Di-Chen were alone in the Captains quarters, they had managed to tap into
one of CNNs' satellites orbiting over Brazil. They were well aware of the situ-
ation, the attacks on India, the ultimatum and threats to the U.S., the massing
of troops in North Korea, everything.
"Is it really possible? Could it somehow be a trick? Some elaborate ploy by the
Americans?" Commander Di-Chen asked.
"The chances are highly unlikely my friend. The United States would gain
nothing by spreading rumors that their nuclear forces were being put on high
alert. Not only that, if they were just rumors the media would have found out
by now.
It would be quite easy for them to find out that nothing was going on. No. I'm
afraid that Zarain has underestimated the resolve of the Americans. Like a
gambler he should have stopped when he was ahead. Zarain is taking us to the
edge of the Nuclear Abyss. He has practically leaped over it with the attacks
on India.
You know as well as I do that a response from the Americans is not far off.
It's up to us to save our country and prevent the Americans from attacking."
Captain Wa-Shen answered.
"But how?" Commander Di-Chen responded.
"As much as I hate to say it, my loyalty lies with China, not with Zarain. My
friend, I must ask you where your loyalty lies?" The Captain asked.
"I agree with you, my allegiance lies with China. There can be no greatness
gained by provoking the Americans into a nuclear war. We must stop Zarain."
Di-Chen answered without giving it a second thought.
"Alright then. We need to devise a plan, and quick. Any false move could
mean the end of China as we know it." Captain Wa-Shen responded.
Tuesday, May 11
Orlando, Florida 11:20 a.m. EST
The military transport was entering the city limits of Orlando, Johns' new
home, and perhaps his last. The city was relatively quiet. His mind continued
to drift to Diania, hoping she was alive. He knew the hospital had a shelter,
but it wouldn't be able to take direct hit, especially with a high yield weapon.
The thought of his cell-phone sitting on the dash of his car continued to haunt
him. If he hadn't forgot it, he'd at least be able to hear Diana's voice. As it was
he was stuck alone with a bus load of strangers, being taken off to be buried
underground while the world disintegrated.
The bus drivers voice on the intercom broke Johns' train-of-thought.
"All passengers please listen. We will be arriving at the shelter in just a few
minutes. Upon arrival we will be handing out a questioneer that we need you
to fill out.
The questions are relatively simple. In case of a serious attack we'll need to
know what type of education you have had, where you've had jobs, general
things like that. The shelter directors will assign you to certain areas, and in-
form you of the rules of conduct, and what will be expected of you. They will
be able to answer any questions you might have. Please exit the bus in an
orderly fashion once we have parked. Thank you."
San Bernardino Mountains, California
Tuesday, May 11 8:30 a.m. PST
Auther & Alicia had made it successfully out of Los Angeles, they were now
just a few minutes away from their vacation home. The mountains managed
to retain their usual solitude. In normal times they offered a peaceful refuge
from the madness of the city. How ironic that today they would offer refuge
from the end or at least the substantial disruption of the world.
Auther looked at Alicia with somewhat relief that they had made it. Both
were silent. Alicia was worried about her mom and Auther was worried about
Alicia. Everyone seemed to just want to get it over with, whatever was going
to happen. Auther reached down to turn the radio on, the only station coming
in was an AM station from Bakersfield.
"We go now live to President Wilson who is broadcasting from somewhere
under Montana.
"My fellow Americans, in the past 36 hours we have seen how unpredictable
our world can be. Just two days ago, our nation was at peace and content to
argue over who would win the NBA playoffs. Today our nation stands tall and
united over eliminating an evil tyrannical monster who is threatening all the
peace-loving countries of the world, but especially, he is threatening the United
States. Earlier in our history , this nation rose up and defeated the forces of
evil the were raining disaster on Europe and the Pacific. Today I am here to
tell you that the United States and our N.A.T.O. allies are determined to stand
together and we're determined to take action!! We're not going to tolerate
these attacks by out-law states. We will not cave in!! To Zarain...Our demands
are simple...You must begin the process of removing all military forces from
India, Loas and North Korea...You must also remove yourself from power and
restore the former government of China...and finally...You must release all
hostages...Or face your own demise!! Along with the demise off China and
countless millions who are innocent. The choice is yours to make. You have
12 hours to comply with our demands, or face the consequences. To the
families of the hostages being held in Datong. I want you to know that our
deepest sorrow goes out to you today, and while we pray for a peaceful
solution, I have a duty to ensure the safety and well being of the remaining
people back home. Therefore, as much as it pains me, if the time comes, I will
not hesitate to order the bombing of Datong. I am truly sorry that it has to be
this way. Let us all pray for the safe return home of our fellow Americans
held hostage, and for a peaceful ending to this crisis. Thank You and God Bless
America!"
Auther and Alicia looked at each other, both had a sickening feeling through-
out their bodies. This was truly it. It was bottom of the ninth and two outs.
The next twelve hours would determine the future course of the world.
Datong Missile Base, Datong, China
Wednesday, May 12 12:35 a.m
For the first time in Zarains' life he was truly perplexed. He was convinced
that the sight of innocent Americas being held hostage would cause at least
some pause with the President. Instead it had backfired miserably, it had
apparently strengthened the American Presidents' resolve. So much so that
he was now faced with a deadline for action that was sooner then he expected.
At all costs' he was determined to continue being the one who was writing the
terms of the crisis. He looked at General Ping-Chang, the normally apparent
confidence was absent, "General, time is of the essence, I need answers."
"My Lord, I am here to serve. What questions do you seek answers to?" The
General asked.
"Do you think the Americans are bluffing, and if they aren't why haven't they
taken out our subs? Why fool around with a pretty speech?" Zarain asked,
anxious to here the Generals' answers.
"My Lord, I would have to say that is more likely that they are unaware of
our subs. Perhaps they believe that their cities have been evacuated, to such
an extent that they are now willing to risk an all-out attack. I must say that
I can not think of a reason to dance around with pretty speeches if they knew
where our subs are. They would have taken them out by now." The General
answered. A part of himself now knowing that the hours were running out on
his life.
"So what do you think the U.S. response would be if we upped the ante and
moved our forces into South Korea for a preemptive strike." Zarain questioned
the decision having already been made in his mind.
"My Lord, seeings how we haven't detected any additional reinforcements
moving into South Korea. I would say that they are, at least at this point in the
conflict content to lose the area. Although I must add that we can expect them
to attempt to regain the area at a later point." General Ping-Chang responded.
"How soon can our forces in North Korea be ready for an offensive attack into
the south?" Zarain asked.
"We have assembled a force of nearly 1.1 million. They are ready to attack
as soon as the order is given, My Lord." General Ping-Chang informed.
Determined to stay in control of the crisis, and hoping that such a decisive
victory in the south would cause the American public to turn against the war,
he gave the order. "General, inform the ground commander in North Korea that
he is to begin the invasion of South Korea immediately, and that I want a sit-
uation report every half hour by him personally." Zarain demanded.
"Yes My Lord." General Ping-Chang answered, knowing that the fate of China
was now sealed.
Atlanta
Tuesday, May 11 12:05 p.m. EST
Less than 12 hours to go and the tension in the control room was now opp-
ressive. Everyone was on death watch, as they sat and waited for the 11:30
deadline to arrive. The likelihood that a nuclear exchange would take place
between the United States and another nation had far exceeded even the Cuban
Missile Crisis. How ironic that Russia was now on our side, and that China was
now the aggressor.
"Tim Donalds here in Atlanta, with just 11 hours and 10 minutes to go
before tonights deadline, we have a report just released by the Federal Re-
serve saying that the effects of the worldwide evacuations, and for all pract-
ical purposes the shutting down of the world, will lead to a worldwide deppre-
sion, assuming we make it through the crisis. The report states that the G.D.P.
of the world is contracting by almost 10 billion dollars a day, even worse, the
report states that the rate of contraction can be expected to increase, if the
crisis drags on for a prolonged period. 'Although no one in the control room,
and around the world for that matter, expected that to happen.'
Tuesday, May 11
FEMA Bomb Shelter
Orlando, Florida 12:15 p.m. EST
John had decided it was beyond his control. He was now making the best of it
on bunk bed 245. Like prisoners awaiting a mass execution, they sat and
watched the clock now. The shelter held almost 400 people. John was now a
number-245. It was getting close to lunch time, but no one, including the shel-
ter directors was in the mood.
Everyone was huddled in groups around 20 T.V..s' that were scattered about
the different rooms. Some chose not to watch, and just slept in their beds, but
for the most part everything was quite calm. No rioting, no fighting. Perhaps
everyone was just resigned to the inevitable.
Chapter Eight-Innocence Lost
Wednesday, May 12 1:20 a.m. KST
DMZ South Korean Side
The still of the night was broken by air raid sirens going off along the entire
length of the DMZ. A massive missile attack was underway. The sky was filled
with vapor trails. Seconds latter a new sound could be heard-that of Patriot
Missile Batteries firing. Brilliant explosions lit the night sky. However, it was
a
game of attrition, and the Patriots were losing. Seconds latter dozens of F-15s
and F-16s took off from air bases in Pusan and Taegu, in route for intercept
with the incoming forces of Zarain. From the AirCraft Carrier Independence in
the East China Sea F-14s and F-18s would soon join the battle. To the north in
the Sea of Japan Mirage-2000s from the French AirCraft Carrier Charles
DeGule were just minutes behind their American counterparts. Their job would
not be to stop the incoming forces of Zarain. Theirs' would be to lay a trap
while the U.S. and South Korean Ground Forces fell back to the southern coast
and regrouped in Pusan.
Tuesday, May 11 10:25 a.m. MST
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana...
Attempting to get just a few minutes sleep, the president was awaken by the
sound of the phone ringing. "This is the Wilson, what's our status?" The
President asked.
"Sir, this is General Riley. General Daniell of Joint U.S. South Korean Forces has
informed me that Zarain is invading the south, and that "Operation Temporary
Exit" has begun. We are awaiting a final report from General Daniell on the ex-
act location of both Zarains forces and of our forces. At which time will need
your authorization for the Baltimore to launch." General Riley explained.
"I understand. Keep me informed, and let me know when our forces are in
safe position." President Wilson ordered.
"Yes Sir!" General Riley responded.
Wednesday, May 12 1:35 a.m. JST
Over Osaka, Japan...
Tom Manning and his Co-pilot had just arrived to their fail-safe point and
were now entering a stationary orbit, when the tele-type began to print.
Printed at the top of the message in bold letters was-"Priority Message" they
were convinced that this was it. Neither said a word, as they waited for the
message to finish printing. It seamed to last an eternity.
"To all participants in "Operation NightHawk"-Zarains' forces have attacked
South Korea. "Operation Temporary Exit" has begun. The final stage is set to
begin soon. The response by Zarain is difficult to anticipate. Standby for im-
ediate authorization for "Operation NightHawk"."
With that, the message ended. Tom was determined to keep his cool. This was
what he had trained for his entire life. Although he wouldn't be directly
involved in the bombing-a part of him still worried about the implications
tonights' actions would have on his son and the rest of the world.
Atlanta
Tuesday, May 11 12:45 p.m. EST
"Tim Donalds here in Atlanta, with 10 hours and 45 minutes to go until
tonights deadline, we have just learned that a massive invasion by Zarains'
forces is taking place against U.S. forces in South Korea. The Pentagon is re-
porting that U.S. and South Korean ground forces are being completely over-
run by the incoming wave of Chinese troops.
Pentagon estimates place the incoming force at almost 1 and 1/4 million
ground troops, along with over 650 fighter jets. The Defence department has
informed us that total U.S. and South Korean troop levels are only 210 thou-
sand. With just a little over one hour past since the invasion began, U.S./S.K.
forces are in a full-fledged retreat. Fighter aircraft from the US.S. Indepen-
dence and the French aircraft carrier Charles DeGule are providing cover for
the retreating ground forces.
Needless to say this defeat does not strengthen the U.S. and N.A.T.O.s' hand in
the ongoing crisis. If fact most analysts are saying that it weakens their posi-
tion. It is most certainly giving Zarain both a tactical and an emotional boost."
Tim Donalds explained.
Tuesday, May 11 10:55 a.m. MST
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana...
The President and his advisors were watching the battle take place as it
happened. A dozen monitors displayed all the necessary information. The posi-
tion of U.S. forces. The locations of all NATO submarines and Carrier battle
groups in the area, and what was probably the most important information-
the location of Zarains' forces. Just one final step was needed before the first
release of nuclear weapons by the United States since 1945-a confirmation
by General Daniell or his next in command, that U.S./S.K. ground forces had
made it safely to Pusan.
Watching the monitors, the minutes seamed like decades. Satellite photos
showed the troops making it into Pusan, but still no confirmation. As the Pre-
sident pondered why General Daniell had not called in, a secretary walked up
to the President. "Sir, we have General Daniell on a secure line for you. You can
pick it up on line two."
Glad that the troops were safe, yet resigned to the turn of events, President
Wilson picked up the phone. "General, we were getting a little worried about
you over here. Is everyone in position?" The President asked.
Trying to be brief the General answered, "Yes Sir.We are at Condition Receding
Darkness...Repeat we are at Condition Receding Darkness...Daniell out"
The President slowly set the phone down. After a slight pause to gather his
thoughts the President turned to General Riley and spoke. "Very well. Lets do
it. Where are the codes?" The General was carrying a black briefcase, the
contents of which contained the keys to unlock the most destructive force man
has ever known. The President searched for the appropriate set of codes for
the attack pattern selected.
Under the East China Sea
Exact Location...Unknown
Aboard the U.S.S. Baltimore, a Los Angeles class cruise missile submarine, the
Captain was anticipating the Emergency Action Message that was already be-
ing verified. Having been informed of the invasion by Zarain into South Korea,
he knew that it was only a matter of time before the crew of the Baltimore
would be called upon. It was decided earlier in the planning stages of "Oper-
ation Temporary Exit" that with little time to bring reinforcements into South
Korea, if Zarain choose to invade, there would be minimal resistance put up
by U.S. forces. Instead, Zarains' forces would be lead to believe that he could
have the south. With virtually all of Seoul evacuated or in bomb shelters, it
was also decided that when Zarains' troops made their way into the deserted
Seoul, it would be sacrificed in exchange for a substantial reduction of Za-
rains' ground troops.
LT. Timothy Sims made his way to the Captain. "Sir we have a properly for-
matted Emergency Action Message. Permission to authenticate." The LT. asked.
"Permission granted." The Captain responded.
The code words on the message matched code words that were in a safe on
the submarine. "Sir, message is authentic." LT. Sims answered. "I concur sir"
The X.O. answered.
"Very well, lets read it." The Captain responded.
The X.O. started to read the message, "To the Captain and crew of the U.S.S.
Baltimore...Zarains' forces have invaded South Korea & are approaching Seoul.
U.S./S.K. ground forces have successfully made it to Pusan. Supporting aircraft
are returning to designated aircraft carriers. The use of nuclear weapons has
been authorized. Set for condition 1-SQ. Spin up missiles 1 through 12 for
launch in 20 minutes at designated targets. End message."
Like a well-oiled machine the Captain reached for the microphone, "Weapons,
this is Con. We have received a properly formatted emergency action message.
The use of nuclear weapons has been authorized. This is not a drill. I repeat
this is not a drill. Set for condition 1-SQ. Spin up missiles 1-12. Set clock for
launch in twenty minutes, at designated targets." The Captain handed the mi-
crophone to the X.O. " Weapons, this is the X.O. We have received a properly
formatted emergency action message. The use of nuclear weapons has been
authorized. This is not a drill. I repeat this is not a drill. Set for condition 1-SQ.
Spin up missiles 1-12. Set clock for launch in 20 minutes, at designated tar-
gets." The Captain and the X.O. waited for a response from weapons.
"Con, this is weapons. We are now at condition 1-SQ. Missiles 1-12 have been
spun up. Launch in 19 minutes 55 seconds. Repeat...Con, this is weapons. We
are now at condition 1-SQ. Missiles 1-12 have been spun up. Launch in 19
minutes 50 seconds." LT. Commander Chris Bander answered.
The gun was now loaded and the hammer was cocked. All that remained was ]
to keep the submarine alive for another 19 minutes.
Tuesday, May 11 11:02 a.m. MST
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana....
General Riley approached the President, who was now intently monitoring sev-
eral television screens. "Sir, the Baltimore reports that they are now at condi-
tion 1-SQ, and the launch clock is now at 18 minutes."
"Very well. Inform NATO Supreme Command as well as the French President.
I'll notify the Russian President." President Wilson responded.
President Wilson headed for his private quarters where he would inform the
Russian President of the impending release of U.S. nuclear weapons.
When the red light began to flash, the Russian President knew exactly why he
was being contacted. "Greetings Mr. Wilson." He answered with resignation.
"My friend, I am sure you know why I am calling, so let me get straight to the
point. In approximately 17 minutes one of our cruise missile subs will release
12 nuclear missiles targeted at Zarains forces, both in Seoul and across the
border in North Korea. Each has a yield of 1 kiloton. Each will be an airburst
at 500 feet. So that you may properly monitor the launch, it will take place
from the East China Sea. This is all the information that I am able to provide,
however I suggest that we continue to remain united against this common
enemy." President Wilson explained.
"I thank you for this information. I see no reason for this to be false. We will
ofcourse monitor the launch. I can pledge to you that our Strategic Rocket
Forces will remain neutral in this matter, unless and until there is an attack
on our country." The Russian President answered.
"I can assure you that if there is it will not come from the United States or
NATO. I must go now, I need to discuss the situation with my battle staff. I
will kept in contact, and I ask that you do the same." President Wilson replied.
"I will, let us hope the heavens do not weep for us in the coming days." The
Russian President replied.
Tuesday, May 11 1:07 p.m EST
Atlanta
"Tim Donalds, here in Atlanta, where it would appear that the U.S. and NATO
have suffered a most humiliating defeat in South Korea. Just minutes ago,
Zarain finished addressing the Chinese public and proclaimed that South Korea
has fallen. Troops are pouring into the capital, Seoul ,by the tens of thousands.
This is all being confirmed by the Pentagon-which reports that ten out of the
twelve Patriot Missile Defences batteries stationed on the DMZ have been des-
troyed. Three F-14s have been lost, with the pilots unaccounted for. One
French Mirage-2000 was destroyed, and the pilot is confirmed dead. U.S./S.K.
ground force casualties are not precisely known at this time, but Pentagon
estimates are at least 350, with 200 dead.
Unable to hold back the wave of Chinese forces NATO ground troops have re-
treated to the port city of Pusan in the south. We are told they are being
evacuated and will be taken to U.S. bases in Japan to regroup.
This is of course a most dramatic turn of events for the U.S. and the world.
Many analysts now expect this quick and decisive victory to boost Zarains
confidence, and it is expected now that he will not give in to the U.S. demands
of withdrawal. In fact many analysts now expect Zarain to issue further de-
mands of the U.S. In a related story Iran has publicly endorsed the actions by
Zarain, and is holding out the offer of an alliance with Zarain, who in his add-
ress to China is said to be highly interested in an alliance with the Muslim
nation." Tim explained trying to remain calm and collected.
FEMA Bomb Shelter
Orlando, Florida 1:12 p.m. EST
A dark cloud of despair descended over John as well as the rest of the nation.
It was all true. Zarain had called our bluff, and now was occupying South
Korea.
All the commentators were predicting a bloodbath as our troops tried to
retreat in humiliation, and all were predicting that Zarain would remain in
control of SouthEast Asia and perhaps India if they surrendered, which now
looked guaranteed. Throw in an alliance with Iran and Zarain now seemed
unstoppable.
Worried about Diania, and unable to continue watching John went back to his
bunk bed, to try to forget about the world, if only for a few minutes.
As the news continued to disseminate around the globe, the worlds
inhabitants, Zarain excluded, slipped into a collective state of despair.
Under the East China Sea
Exact Time & Location Unknown....
The silence of the sea, kept hidden the messenger of death below.
Beneath the surface a dark image could now be seen as it made its way to-
wards the air above. Suddenly the image halted and lay motionless just below
the surface. Seconds later the response that Zarain was not anticipating was on
its way.
Tuesday, May 11 11:21 a.m. MST
Presidential Bomb Shelter
Under Montana....
The control room was now bustling with activity. General Riley made his way
to the President. "Sir, Strategic Air Command confirms that all missiles were
launched on schedule. The first of which will hit its target in 250 seconds. The
Baltimore also reports that they did not encounter resistance, and have re-
sumed their original course. They will remain within range to target mainland
China, should that be necessary. It should also be noted that the Virginia,
Georgia, and Atlanta are now in position for immediate high-yield nuclear strike
against the mainland, should that be necessary. Also, we have confirmed that
all B-2s are now in position for "Operation NightHawk", if it's implemented."
"Very well. All we can do now is wait." President Wilson replied, as he
watched the map of the Korean Peninsula with 12 corresponding circles
indicating impact sites getting progressively smaller. The T.T.D. (Time till
detonatetion) clock was at 200 seconds and counting backwards.
Wednesday, May 12 2:23 a.m. BST
Dantog Missile Base
Datong, China
Zarain continued to monitor the information pouring in from South Korea. He
was immersed in his ego. Every aspect of his life had in some way contributed
to todays events. As he sat quietly pondering the future, General Ping-Chang
approached him. "Congratulations My Lord. I must admit I thought the Ameri-
cans would retreat, however I was certain that they would regroup in Pusan.
I was sure that they wouldn't leave the country, but every report we're
getting is that they are retreating to Japan. The small amount of air cover we
encountered was not an attack force. It was barely providing cover for the re-
treating ground troops. Now the Dragon flies high over Seoul, as it will over
the rest of Asia." The General explained as he noticed that Zarains' mind was
drifting. "My Lord, What troubles you? We are victorious. Now is the time for
celebration." The General questioned.
"I agree with you completely, it's just" Zarain was abruptly interrupted by LT.
Kim Sam. "My Lord, forgive my interrupting, but we have detected a total of
12 incoming missiles headed directly for our troops in North & South Korea,
including Seoul!!" The LT. explained franticly. Zarain turned towards General
Ping-Chang giving him a stare that nearly knocked him over. He
now knew why Zarain was not eager to celebrate. Trying to remain calm,
Zarain looked back towards the LT. "Conventional or Nuclear?" Zarain asked.
"My Lord, we are unable to determine that. All that is known is that the first
one should impact in 45 seconds, and that all of the missiles originated from
under the East China Sea." LT. Kim Sam explained, well aware of the rage that
was building up in Zarain.
"It has to have been an American submarine!! It was a trap!! It was all plan-
ned!! They knew we would fall for it!!" Zarain shouted, as he searched his
mind for an appropriate response. "Monitor the situation. I want a status re-
port immediately after the last missile hits." Zarain demanded.
"Yes, My Lord!" LT. Kim Sam answered.
Wednesday, May 12 2:27 a.m. KST
Seoul, South Korea
At 2:27:44 a.m. KST the first nuclear weapons to be used by the United States
since 1945 detonated over Seoul. The world city which had hosted the 1988
summer olympics was devastated by choice. Shortly afterward Pyongyang,
North Korea was the recipient of its own tactical nuclear detonations. All over
the DMZ Zarains' massive army was massacred, as still more bombs rained
down from overhead. The port city of Chongjin, North Korea became the next
casualty as the missile landed directly in the heart of the city, stopping just
short of China proper.
Across the peninsula the once mighty army stood in ruin. A testament to their
leaders own selfishness.
Wednesday, May 12 2:35 a.m. BST
Datong Missile Base
Datong, China
LT. Kim Sam sat in disbelief as the reports from satellite intelligence came
in. Speechless, he watched in horror as the death toll mounted. However, sym-
bolic the bombings of Seoul and Pyongyang, this was definitely a counter-
force strike against military targets all over the peninsula. One by one the re-
ports came in. Airfields, transportation routes, weapons depos, naval bases, all
were targeted.
After a few minutes, he gathered the strength and compiled a report for Za-
rain.
"My Lord, I have a status report on the American attack prepared for you."
The Lt. explained.
"Summary, I want a summary. What is left?" Zarain asked.
As sweat started to run down his face the Lt. answered. "My Lord, to the
best of our knowledge the attack consisted of 12 tactical nuclear missiles. We
estimate the yield to be 1-1 1/2 kilotons each. Both Seoul and Pyongyang we'
re targeted. All port and naval bases in North Korea have been taken out.
Escape routes we're targeted, trapping what troops we have left on the South
Korean side. All air fields in North Korea have been taken out. Army barracks
on both sides of the DMZ were hit. Finally two oil refineries near Hamhung,
North Korea were hit. Death toll right now is estimated to be at least 355,000.
However, secondary effects from both firestorms, and fallout should kill an-
other 100,000. Also it can be expected that another 50,000 will die due to lack
of properly treated food and water. Sir." Lt. Kim Sam explained, hoping Zarain
would not take his rage out on him right there.
General Ping-Chang was completely slient, as he was the one who advised Za-
rain on the benefits of the invasion.
As for Zarain, he remained quiet. Too quiet.
Zarain began to pace up and down the hallway nearby. Their own interests at
heart, the General & the Lt. thought it would be best if they left him alone.
Tuesday, May 11 10:55 a.m.
San Bernardino Mountains, California
Having brought all the food and water along with extra batteries downstairs,
Auther proceeded to lock the basement door. The sound of the door shutting
sounded more like the cover of a coffin being shut to Auther & Alicia.
As they cuddled each other on the couch, Auther turned the t.v. on. Listening
to CNN, they hugged each other tight, waiting for the end.
"This is Kathy Bomen, with CNN live from the Pentagon Bomb Shelter.
With just under 10 1/2 hours to go until tonights deadline for Zarain to begin
withdrawing troops from occupied areas in East Asia, we are getting conflict-
ing reports that the United States has just used nuclear weapons on Zarains'
forces, in North Korea as well as South Korea. You'll recall that shortly ago
U.S. and South Korean Ground troops had evacuated the Korean Peninsula,
and we're regrouping in Japan. This was confirmed by the Pentagon. So per-
haps what we thought was a humiliating retreat, now looks like it could have
been a well laid trap for Zarain. We want to hear what General Riley has to
say about all this. He is making his way to the podium now." Kathy explained
as the General pulled down an enlarged map of the Korean Peninsula.
"I'm here with a brief statement and I'll be taking no questions afterward.
First on behalf of the President I would like to express my outrage at the un-
provoked devastation and brutality that has been subjected on the people of
Asia since Zarain came to power some just two days ago. That having been
said, this administration tried every non-violent means available to convince
Zarain to leave the areas that he had occupied. However, given the lack of
time, because of the demands of Zarain, there was little chance of a non-
violent solution being found. Finally, once the invasion into South Korea began
we felt that we had to act to put an end to this brutal and unprovoked aggres-
sion. Therefore, once Zarains' forces began invading the South, "Operation Tem-
porary Exit" began. It was a very simple plan involving two stages. Stage
One-The Orderly Retreat of U.S./S.K. ground forces off the peninsula and to
Japan. That was accomplished with light casualties. Stage Two-After the U.S./
S.K. ground forces had been evacuated, we waited for Zarains' ground troops
to push further into South Korea, and at the appropriate time the launch of
12 Nuclear Armed Cruise Missiles from the U.S.S. Baltimore was ordered by
the President. Each missile contained a 1 kiloton warhead. All hit their targets
successfully." Drawing several circles on the map the General Continued.
The targets included the following...Seoul-1 warhead. Pyongyang-1 warhead.
Seven warheads were delivered to five airfields in North Korea. One warhead
was delivered to two oil refineries in HamHung, North Korea. The remaining
two warheads were targeted at ground troops along the DMZ. While the Pre-
sident regrets having to take these actions he felt that it was absolutely ness-
esary. On a closing note, I would just like to remind Zarain that he now has
just over 10 hours left with which to comply with our demands that he re-
move all forces from the occupied areas of East Asia as well as step down from
power and allow the former government of China to return. Or he will face
a situation worst than what he is dealing with now. Thank You, and God Bless
America." The General finished. Walking of the stage, he headed back to the
war-room. The reporters, along with the world had been shell-shocked yet
again. Throughout all of the Cold War the superpowers kept their nuclear
weapons slient. Although coming close during the Cuban Missile Crisis-not
once did the superpowers engage in a nuclear conflict. How ironic that without
a superpower conflict to constrain the world, it looked more and more likely
that it was sliding down the slope into the nuclear abyss.
Under the Atlantic...
Exact & Time Location Unknown....
Aboard the U.S.S. Richmond a Los Angeles class fast attack submarine, the
Captain had been summoned to the bridge.
"Captain's on the bridge" The X.O. called out.
" Report, what's going on.?" The Captain asked.
Handing him a report the X.O. explained. "Sir, about one minute ago Sonar de-
tected the Chinese sub beginning to hover. About 5 seconds ago, they stopped
at 50 feet. That is the maximum launch depth for all of the Chinese Ballistic
Submarines."
Reaching for the microphone the Captain called out to the crew "This is the
Captain, Red Alert! I repeat Red Alert! This is not a drill. Rig sub for ultra-
quiet, the Chinese sub could be getting ready to launch. Sonar-monitor for a
hatch opening-inform me as soon as you have it confirmed. Weapons-lock on
to the Chinese sub and ready torpedoes 1 thru 3 for immediate launch. This is
not a drill!"
After an initial minute of activity the Richmond was now slient as it waited
and listened for the sound which would send the Chinese sub to the bottom
of the ocean floor.
Sonar was now fixed on the sub. Waiting and sorting its way through the doz-
ens of other sounds that were normal to the ocean. Waiting to here the one
sound that was foreign to the ocean.
Having noticed a blip on the sonar graph, he immediately cross-checked it
with the main computer database containing the records of tens of thousands
of sounds. If their hatch was opening the computer would know. Listening to
the playback from the computer the Head of Sonar alerted the Captain. "Con-
this is Sonar we have a priority one alert, repeat we have a priorty one alert,
we have just confirmed the Chinese sub is opening the launch hatch, repeat
the Chinese sub is opening the launch hatch." Having rehearsed the part over
dozens of times before, the Captain reached for the microphone. "Weapons-
this is Con, we have confirmed the Chinese sub is opening the launch hatch,
target torpedoes and prepare to fire on my command." "Con-this is weapons,
we are locked on, repeat we are locked on" Weapons answered.
"Weapons-this is Con-FIRE!!"
With that the three SUBROCK nuclear armed torpedoes left the hull of the
Richmond. Breaking the surface several seconds later they proceeded towards
the target, some fifteen miles away. As they approached the sub about one
mile out, they resubmerged to race thru the water. Just seconds before the
torpedoes hit, the CCS-3 Class Chinese submarine was able to release its mess-
enger of death. It was to late, the missile cleared the water some 300 miles
of the coast of the Falkland Islands, it was now on its way to the U.S.
"Con-this is Weapons, we have three direct hits, repeat we have three direct
hits." "Con-this is Sonar, we sugest you inform Strategic Air Command that
there may have been a launch, just prior to impact of the torpedoes. The noise
of the explosions muffled the sound, so I an unable to get a confirmation on
it."
"Weapons, Sonar-this is Con. Your statements are acknowledged" The Captain
replied.
Tuesday, May 11
Strategic Air Command HeadQuarters
Omaha, Nebraska 12:25 p.m. MST
The command center was organized chaos. There was no turning back, World
War III was now under way.
Lt. Carther rushed over to Commander Tucker trying to keep all of the situa-
tion reports together. "Sir, we have a report from the Richmond that there
has been an enemy kill. They sank one of the Chinese subs. Satellite reconnais-
sance confirms that there was three small nuclear detonations off the Falkland
islands consistent with characteristics of the SUBROCK torpedo approx. 55 sec-
onds ago. What do you..." The Lt. was interrupted by the alarm going off all
over the building. "What the hell is going on?!" Commander Tucker demanded.
Lt. Carther quickly got back to his consol. "Jesus Christ!!" Lt. Carther mumbled
under his breath. "What, what is it?" The Commander questioned. "Uh, Sir, I
think you better take a look at this." The Lt. responded. Walking over to the
consol, the Commander began to read the situation report that was being
printed out. Whispering under his breath the Commander began to read it.
WARNING...A POTENTIAL MISSILE ATTACK AGAINST THE CONTIN-
ENTAL UNITED STATES...AS WELL AS MAINLAND EUROPE HAS BEEN
IDENTIFIED...STAND BY FOR TRAJECTORY CONFIRMATION...STAND
BY...ATTACK PATTERN CONSISTS OF ONE SLBM...LAUNCHED
APPROXIMATELY
300 MILES EAST OF THE FALKLAND ISLANDS...AS
WELL AS ONE ICBM...LAUNCHED FROM THE DATONG MISSILE BASE
IN DATONG CHINA...PROBABILITY OF MISSILES BEING MIRV...75%
STAND BY FOR TRAJECTORY CONFIRMATION...STAND BY...
Commander Tucker rushed to the phone to inform the President. "This is
Wilson." The President answered. "Sir, Zarain has responded to our attack in
South Korea." Commander Tucker responded. "Explain." President Wilson
answered, fearful of what the answer would be. "Sir, we have identified two
ballistic missiles that have been launched. One is a ICBM the other an SLBM.
The SLBM is headed for the Continental United States, the ICBM is on its way
to mainland Europe. The exact locations for each won't be known for another
two minutes, however, we are certain that they are headed for the U.S. and
Europe. Also, the computer puts the probability of them being MIRV at 75%.
Which might explain why there have only been two launches. The good news
is that the we have also confirmed that the Richmond has sunk one of the
Chinese subs. Infact it was the one that launched the SLBM. What are your
orders Sir?" Commander Tucker asked.
"Unbelievable. If there are no other launches, the first thing we're going
to do is alert the local FEMA shelters and other facilities in the target areas
that there is an attack underway. As for the target sites in Europe, I'll inform
NATO Command in Brussels as soon as we know. Their local agencies will
have to follow their own procedures. Beyond that I want the B-2s from "Oper-
ation NightHawk" to be sent in immediately, I want the sub launches timed so
they detonate after the B-2s' have made in to safety. It's time to get this over
with, I've had about all I can take of this bastard. Other than that, I want to
know as soon as you get a target package." The President ordered with a mix
of exasperation and despair in his voice.
"Yes Sir. If you'll stay on the line a second, we are getting another print-out so
we should know what the targets are." Commander Tucker answered. Reach-
ing over to the tele-type he pulled the latest report off the printer. Glancing
down he read it before he got back to the President.
TRAJECTORY HAS BEEN CONFIRMED...TARGETS INCLUDE THE FOLLOW-
ING...MUNICH.GERMANY...THE ICBM FROM DATONG MISSILE BASE...
IMPACT IN 31 MINUTES...ORLANDO.FLORIDA.THE SLBM OFF THE
FALKLAND ISLANDS...IMPACT IN 30 MINUTES...TRAJECTORY
CONFIRMED...
Commander Tucker reached for the phone to inform the President. "Sir, we
have just received a target confirmation." "Alright, what is it" President Wilson
answered, knowing that in the next half-hour tens of thousands of Americans
would die. "Sir, the targets include, Munich Germany, as well as Orlando
Florida. At this point it would appear that neither one is MIRV, however, I
should point out that if they were, we wouldn't know until the final minutes
of flight. Also, I would recommend that we inform all FEMA shelters in Flor-
ida. The Chinese SLBMs' are not known for their accuracy.
The slightest adjustment in its course and Miami could be hit, Sir." Comm-
ander Tucker responded. "I agree. Have FEMA inform all shelters in Florida
that a nuclear attack is under way. Alert the Red Cross and I want N.A.R.T.
(Nuclear Attack Response Teams) standing by to be sent in as soon as possible.
Inform the press, but I want it stressed that as of now it is a limited attack.
We're going to ride this one out for now. Is that understood?" The President
asked.
"Yes Sir." Commander Tucker answered. As he looked at the T.T.D. (Time Till
Detonation) clock now at 28:55 for Orlando and 29:55 for Munich and count-
ing backwards.
FEMA Bomb Shelter
Orlando, Florida 2:32 p.m. EST
John was drifting into that mystery world, just before one falls asleep, when
he was jolted back to reality by a siren and a bright red light flashing through-
out the shelter. Everyone was now wide awake and confusion soon prevailed.
They had the television on but there was no new reports. What did it
mean?
Knowing all to well what it meant, the shelter director, along with several
aides headed for the private office. Glancing down, the incoming fax read
like an obituary-"TO ALL FEMA SHELTERS IN FLORIDA-A NUCLEAR ATTACK
IS CURRENTLY UNDER WAY-THE SUSPECTED TARGET AT THIS POINT IS-,time
froze as they waited for the next sentence to start printing-ORLANDO FLOR-
IDA-IMPACT IN 26 MINUTES-DUE TO THE INACCURACY OF THE CHINESE SLBM
THE TARGET COULD CHANGE AT ANY MINUTE-N.A.R.T. CREWS ARE STANDING
BY-AND WILL BE SENT IN IMMEDIATELY AFTER DETONATION-THE NATIONAL
GUARD HAS BEEN NOTIFIED-INTERSTATES 95-75-&10 WILL BE CLOSED-AS
WELL AS ALL SECONDARY ROUTES INTO THE STATE-EXECPT FOR AUTHORIZED
PERSONAL ONLY-IT IS ADVISED THAT ALL BLAST DOORS SHOULD BE SHUT
IMMEDIATELY-IT IS ALSO ADVISED THAT A TELEVISION-RADIO-AS WELL
AS BACK-UP GENERATORS BE SHIELDED IMMEDIATELY TO PROTECT FROM E.M.
PULSE-BE PREPARED TO BE WITHOUT HELP FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF
TIME-REMAINING CALM CAN SAVE LIVES-TRY TO DO SO-STAND-BY FOR
FURTHER UP-DATES...........
At that moment the innocence of a nation was shattered, unparalleled to any
other single event in the history of America. No longer we're we immune, no
longer did the guillotine of nuclear war reside in the movies, it was here.
After regaining some resemblance of sanity, the shelter directors proceeded
to inform the occupants.
"Listen up everybody!!!" Don Jenson, the head of the shelter shouted.
Curiosity, having been sparked, the chatter soon died down.
"Thank You." Don responded. A brief pause followed. "It pains me to have to
say this, but we all knew that however unlikely, this time could come. We
have just been notified by FEMA, from their alternate headquarters under
Montana,' John could hear it coming. 'That a nuclear attack against the
United States is underway.' Walls of illusions came crashing down around
everyone in the shelter. Don continued 'Right now there is only one missile on
the way. Currently it is believed that the intended target is Orlando.' As if hit
with its' own nuclear weapon, the rubble that just seconds ago was a wall of
perceived safety was vaporized. Don continued to explain 'It should impact in
24 minutes. However it is also believed that the target could change at any
minute due to the inaccuracy of the Chinese SLBM. Nevertheless we need to
begin to move all essential electrical equipment into the shielding room. We
will also be closing all blast doors imedately. If there are any questions
they will be answered as soon as the necessary work is finished. We have
only 23 minutes." Don explained trying to play his part in the script of
madness.
Under the Pacific.....
785 miles West of Lima, Peru
Aboard the Eclipsed Shadow-a Chinese CC-3 class nuclear ballistic submarine,
Captain Wa-Shen had convened a ship wide announcement. After gaining the
support of his second-in-command along with his battle staff, he now had the
confidence to address the crew.
"My fellow shipmates, Time is not on our side, so I will be as brief as possible.
We were sent out here to protect our great nation of China. We must continue
to provide that protection. However, in order to provide that protection we
must alter our direction. Today I ask for you to continue to trust me as I have
trusted you. There can be only one way to stop the Americans from destroy-
ing our nation-and they will, completely and totally,-if we do not take bold
action. After long consideration I have decided that my loyalty lies with China
and not with Zarain. Therefore it is the decision of myself, my second-in-com-
mand, as well as my battle staff that we surrender our vessel as well as in-
form the Americans of the location of our sister vessel. This must be done-Zar-
ain has already launched one missile at Florida and one against Germany.
There will be no future for China if we engage the United States in a nuclear
war. We are Zarains' trump cards. For the sake of your families as well as our
nation this must be done. If we surrender there is a high likelihood that the
Americans will not fire. We must surrender before the first missile hits in 20
minutes. That is all." The Captain explained.
A sigh of relief was felt all over the ship. Nearly everyone aboard did not
support Zarain, but was afraid to speak out against him for fear of the conse-
quences. Now that the Captain, along with the other commanding officers had
spoken out, everyone was more than willing to help out.
Miami General Hospital
Miami, Florida 2:39 p.m EST
The sirens were continuing to sound out. Confusion was rampant, as people
were jamming the elevators and stairways. Already several people had jump-
ed from their windows. The remnants of bodies laid scattered around the
parking lot. Nothing could be done. There was no time to bother with them.
Diana continued to ran franticly along several floors spot-checking to make
sure no one had been left behind. One by one the floors begin to empty.
Everything had been left right where it was. Peoples' drinks, televisions were
still turned to various channels, all of which were reporting the final minutes
of civilization, clothes and other personal belongings were left in closets, in
some cases the showers were still running. It was as if the hand of God had
reached out and plucked the people right out of the building.
Aboard the U.S.S. Louisiana
825 miles West of Lima, Peru
Aboard the U.S.S. Louisiana, the U.S. Navys' newest nuclear powered aircraft
carrier tension was high. World War III was under way and there was still
two Chinese submarines floating somewhere in the ocean. At any minute,
dozens of cities could be sent to the gallows. A full complement of A.S.W. heli-
copters were busy searching the oceans, dragging their sonar buoys, as well as
deploying dozens of additional buoys. In an attempt to create a far reaching
web, with which to listen for the Chinese subs. Supporting attack subs were
also busy searching for the Chinese. A massive effort was under way, but still
the Chinese subs remained elusive.
Captain Timothy Wells was in the Control room along with his X.O. trying to
make order out of chaos. While reviewing the latest report of what areas had
been mapped and when, the Communications Officer approached the Captain.
"Sir, I'm sorry to interrupt, but I have information that my be of importance."
"Go ahead." The Captain requested, eager to hear the news.
"We've detected a distress call on VHF Channel 8, about 40 miles to the
east of us. They proclaim to be one of the Chinese submarines. They wish to
surrender." The Communications officer replied.
"Have you been able to confirm this?" The Captain answered.
"Sir, at first we thought it was a hoax, but to prove themselves they are
willing to give us the location of the other Chinese submarine. However, there
are two conditions for this. One-That we keep this private. They are certain
that if Zarain finds out about their surrender, that he will order the other sub
to fire everything." Officer Scott explained.
"That makes sense. What is the other condition?" Captain questioned.
"Condition number two-is that we hold off our attack on the mainland until
we have made contact with, and destroyed the other sub. Again they believe
that if Zarain finds out that we know where the other sub is, he will order the
release of their entire complement. What do you suggest we do Sir?" Officer
Scott replied.
"Alright, Officer Scott ,open a channel to the U.S.S. Utah and inform them of the
location of the Chinese submarine. Order them to follow the Chinese sub at a
distance of one mile. Inform them they are not to fire unless a hatch-opening
is detected. I want you to then open a channel to the Chinese submarine and
inform them that one of our attack subs is on the way, and that they will not
fire unless they detect a hatch-opening. Inform them that the attack will be
held off until the location of the other sub is confirmed, unless a launch is de-
tected by either sub. Is that understood?" Captain Timothy Wells questioned.
"Yes Sir." Officer Scott replied.
The Captain headed for his private quarters to contact Strategic Air Command
to inform them of the situation.
Strategic Air Command HeadQuarters
Omaha, Nebraska 1:52 p.m. MST
With just eight minutes to go until the destruction of Orlando, Lt. Carther app-
roached Commander Tucker. "Sir, we have Captain Wells of the Louisiana on a
secure line for you."
"I'll take it." The Commander answered, wondering what could be going on.
Reaching for the phone he noticed the T.T.D. clock-Orlando-7:49 Munich-8:49
"This is Tucker?"
"This is Wells, we have just received a notice of surrender from one of the Chi-
nese submarines located about 39 miles east of us. To prove that they do not
have ulterior motives, they have given us the coordinates of the remaining
Chinese submarine. We have dispatched the Utah to monitor the surrendering
vessel, and we have dispatched the Seattle, as well as several A.S.W. helicopt-
ers to the location of the other sub. We'll know if it is there within the next
10-12 minutes. However, it should be noted that the surrendering vessel be-
lieves that if Zarain finds out that we know the location of the other sub or
that the other sub is surrendering he will order the launch of his remaining
missiles. In order to not arouse Zarains' suspicion, the surrendering vessel
has asked that we hold off firing until the other sub is destroyed. I have in-
formed them that we will hold off until the other sub is destroyed." Captain
Timothy explained.
"I understand. This is the best news we've had yet. I'll inform the President
immediately. Tucker out" The Commander answered, with a tinge of excite-
ment and hope in his voice.
FEMA Bomb Shelter
Orlando, Florida 2:56 p.m. EST
The final grains of sand were slipping away. Everything that could be done,
had been. John along with the rest of the shelters residents were now huddled
around four televisions. Watching their executions.
"This is Ronald Mavren filing my last report for CNN. We are just under four
minutes to go here in Orlando. I am here reporting from a very deserted
Orlando International Airport. Where just three days ago this city, as well as
the nation and the world, were busy carrying out the day to day functions of
modern society. Now, one can only wonder if a few hours from now there will
be a world that remotely resembles that of three days ago.
There is not much else to say. I'm unsure what else could be said here today.
For my final thoughts, I can only hope and pray that the cities of Munich and
Orlando will go down in history as the last cities to suffer a nuclear attack, of
any size.
Oh my God, Tom, this is Ronald, we are at now at 25 seconds and I'm able to
see a faint whitish vapor trail. It's very high up, but it is getting closer. I'm
certain that this is it. There is a bright red glow, behind the missile, it's
beginning to plunge now, it's headed straight for us. Looks as if it's going to
hit just outside the city limits. It's...." A brief and undistinguishable cry for
help followed.
In an instant more American lives vanished than died in Vietnam.
In the shelter the lights went out instantly. Shelves and bunk-beds came cras-
hing down when the shock-wave hit. Dozens were killed in the darkness from
falling debris. John was holding on to the legs of a bunk-bed, which was bolt-
ted to the wall. It was shaking like a violent earthquake. Cries of fear and
pain filled the blackened room. John tried to concentrate on Diana as the en-
tire building started to sway. The walls were starting to buckle. A horrifying
sound could now be heard. Like a hundred hurricanes, it shouted just above.
Seconds later, the building, already about to cave in, began to sway and buck-
le in the opposite direction, as the lap-back from the main shock wave float-
ed back towards ground-zero. Several water-pipes busted. Now water was
spraying everywhere, in pitch black darkness.
When the building stopped shaking after the secondary shock-wave, John
knew they had survived. But, survived to live in what kind of a world? John
laid there in the debris, the water, and the dead bodies, clutching the bed-
post.
CNN HeadQuarters
Atlanta, Georgia 3:15 p.m. EST
Back-up generators were now running. The lights were on, but very dim.
"This is Tom Donalds, here at CNN headquarters in Atlanta. We are running on
back-up power. We are starting to get reports in, and we can tell you that a
wide portion of the south-east power grid has been taken off-line. We are be-
ing told that a four state area is now without power. Those states are Florida,
Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. With sporadic reports of lost power in a
few other states. Reaching as far north as Virginia, and as far west as Louisi-
ana. The National Guard has sealed off entrance into Florida-except for emerg-
ency personal. Our first report from the Pentagon is saying that the missile
went off-course, and that ground-zero was the town of Bithlo, about 17 miles
from downtown Orlando. The Pentagon is estimating that the effective yield
was 5 1/2 megatons. Also, the reports from Germany are nearly identical. The
yield there is estimated to be 5 megatons. With total disruption of commun-
cations and basic infrastructure. Defence Department sources are telling us
that there was likely 65,000 people killed in each attack. With another 5,000-
8,000 expected to die within the next 5 days, in each bomb site, due to secon-
dary effects from radiation. The only news we have on the effort to locate the
Chinese submarines is that there has been one kill. It has been confirmed that
a short while ago, the U.S.S. Richmond destroyed a Chinese Ballistic missile
sub, about 300 miles east of the Falkland Islands. That still leaves two more
subs left, that are out there, somewhere, hidden in the oceans.
We are also hearing rumors that the U.S. & NATO have not yet responded to
these attacks. Perhaps some type of a deal has been reached that we do not
yet know about, that would end the war. We can only pray.
The only positive news to report, if it can be called that is that the wind patt-
erns in Florida are carrying the fall-out east over the Atlantic Ocean. The only
land areas that are expected to receive any fall-out are those areas directly
east of Orlando. The most notable of which is Cape Canaveral and the surr-
ounding communities.
However in Germany, it is expected that fall-out could reach as far west as
Vienna, Austria. People are being urged to remain inside, until they can be
flown or driven out of the fall-out zones. Reports from Europe are saying that
almost eight million people are without power. Power is blacked out as far
south as Milan, Italy and as far north as Frankfurt. We are trying to make
contact with our bureau in Frankfurt, for more information, until then we will
have to deal with the sporadic reports that we're receiving
Pacific Ocean
790 miles West of Lima, Peru
With the attack submarine U.S.S. Utah, as well as several Anti-Submarine-Hel-
icopters keeping a watchful eye, the crew of the Eclipsed Shadow, now surfac-
ed, was beginning to evacuate their vessel. With a crew of almost 170, nearly
115 were now floating on life rafts, dozens more had jumped from the boat
with life preservers and were bouncing amid the waves. With a make-shift
white flag having now been raised, they waited to be picked up by the Amer-
icans.
Wednesday, May 12 4:25 a.m. BST
Datong Missile Base
Datong, China
Amid the computers and monitors, Zarain was pacing nervously. He had tried
to contact the Eclipsed Shadow several times, but still no response.
"Try to contact the Rising Viper, if a channel is opened, order them to contact
the Eclipsed Shadow. Tell them to have the Eclipsed Shadow, contact us on
very low frequency. Inform the Rising Viper, that I want a status report,
within 5 minutes. Is that clear?" Zarain questioned, the frustration apparent
in his voice.
"Yes, My Lord." The Communications Officer responded.
Dozens of unanswered questions were going through Zarains' mind. 'Why
hadn't the U.S. responded? 'Why was there no response from the other NATO
countries?' 'Why was he unable to contact the Eclipsed Shadow?' Unable to
find a link, Zarain continued to wonder, and wait to hear from the Rising
Viper.
Several minutes later the head of communications, approached Zarain.
"My Lord, I have established contact with the Rising Viper. They have been
trying to contact the Eclipsed Shadow for almost 20 minutes now. Their trans-
mission is being received, however there is no response form the Shadow.
The only explanation they have is that their relay antenna was damaged
somehow. However they aren't sure how that could've happened since the
Shadow has not engaged any NATO forces yet. What should I tell the Viper
My Lord?" The officer asked.
Zarain was silent. Thinking, concentrating. Suddenly, as if he had experienced
a type of spiritual vision, the puzzle came together.Whispering under his
breath, he put the pieces in their proper place. "The silent Americans, no
response, NATO countries silent, no response from the Shadow, transmission
getting through, no engagement between NATO and the Shadow." A long pause
followed before the link was made. With a rage that had not yet been seen by
even his closest advisors Zarain explained the situation. "Those traitors!!
Deceivers!!!" "What is the matter, My lord?" the officer questioned, as he back-
ed away from Zarain. "Don't you get it yet!! You fools!!! The Shadow hasn't re-
sponded because there is no one there to respond!!! Those deceptive traditors
have surrendered to the Americans!!!"
Everyone in the control room fell silent. If there was one thing Zarain did not
have tolerance for, it was traitors. Especially the surrender of chess pieces as
valuable as the missile submarines.
"My Lord, even if this is true, we still have the Viper, which is still a valuable
bargaining chip. It can still cause tremendous damage to the Americans." The
officer responded, in a timid voice.
"You incompetent fool!!!!" Zarain shouted as we pushed the officer into the
wall. "Don't you realize that if the Shadow has surrendered, they have most
likely given away the location of the Viper. The Americans could be in route
now as I speak!!! My only leverage could be destroyed any minute!!! Damn-it!!"
Zarain shouted, as he nearly broke the officers' neck. "Open a direct channel to
the Viper!!" Zarain demanded as he threw the officer into the computer.
After a few seconds of franticly trying to reestablish contact, a link was made.
"This is Commander Wan-Shawn. Your identification has been established.
What is our orders?" The commander asked.
"Commander, this is Zarain. We have determined that the Shadow has surrend-
ered. Your position could be in jeopardy. U.S. attack subs could be in route to
your location. Your orders are to target all of your missiles for the United
States and fire as many as possible. There is no need to be target specific, just
don't hit the same place twice!! Is that understood?!!" Zarain questioned angri-
ly.
"Your orders are acknowledged. We'll begin firing sequence in 20 seconds.
Wa-Shawn out." The Commander replied.
Under the Pacific....
840 miles West of Lima, Peru
The U.S.S. Seattle was desperately racing towards the Viper.
"Con-this is Sonar. We have identifyed the enemy sub! We are detecting
multiple hatch openings!! Repeat-Con-this is Sonar we are detecting multiple
hatch openings!! Weapons are not yet in range!! E.T.A.-45 seconds!!" Sonar
exclaimed. "Sonar-this is Con-your statements are acknowledged. Continue
tracking and do not lose contact. Weapons-this is Con-Arm torpedoes 1-5 and
stand-by to target. Fire on my command in 27 seconds." The Captain ordered.
Every second was now worth millions of lives. Any delay and vast sections of
the country would be vaporized.
"Con-this is Weapons-torpedoes 1-5 are armed and ready to launch. We are
locked on, but still 15 seconds until we're in range." "Con-this is Sonar-we
have confirmed at least two launches. Repeat we have confirmed at least two
launches, with a third in progress!!!
"Weapons-this is Con-Stay focused. Prepare to fire in 3-2-1-FIRE!!!" The Capt-
ain ordered hoping the torpedoes would reach their target before any other
missiles could be launched.
Above the surface an A.S.W. Helicopter was witnessing the missiles break the
water. Racing ahead it moved into position to hit the missiles, should there be
any more.
Having suffered through now four missile launches, and being able to do noth-
ing about it. They were now in position.
Back under the surface the crew of the Seattle held their breath and waited.
"Con-this is Sonar-we have five direct hits. Repeat we have five direct hits.
We also confirmed a fifth launch took place just before the first torpedo hit."
Sonar shouted. Knowing that the crisis was now over.
Above the surface the fifth missile started to break the water. Just seconds in-
to flight, an air-to-ground missile made contact. Shattering it in a violent ex-
plosion.
Aboard the Louisiana the Communications officer was informing the Captain.
"Sir, the Seattle confirms that the final Chinese sub has been destroyed. An
A.S.W. Helicopter in the area also confirms that there were four successful
launches before they were able to engage, and that they made contact with a
fifth missile and it was destroyed." The Officer explained.
"Very Well." Captain Wells responded. He was glad that the sub was destroyed
but at the same time he was despondent over knowing that four launches
were able to take place on his watch.
Strategic Air Command HeadQuarters
Omaha, Nebraska 1:40 p.m. MST
The all to familiar sound of the launch siren began again. Everyone sat and
waited for the tele-type to print the obituary.
WARNING...MULTIPLE BALLISTIC MISSILE LAUNCHES HAVE TAKEN
PLACE...MOST LIKELY TARGET IS THE CONTINENTAL UNITED
STATES...STAND-BY FOR TRAJECTORY CONFIRMATION...STAND-BY...
Commander Tucker immediately informed the President. "Sir, we have
multiple missile launches in progress. The Captain of the Louisiana confirms
that the final Chinese sub has been eliminated. He also confirms that four
successful launches took place before the sub was taken out. A fifth missile
was destroyed in flight. The other Chinese sub has been secured. What are
your orders, Sir."
Since the crisis began the President had thought long and hard about his dec-
ision.
"Go ahead, Implement "Operation NightHawk" immediately. I want to know as
soon as you have a target list confirmed. I'll be addressing the nation shortly
thereafter. I'll inform NATO Command in Europe of the situation." President
Wilson responded, hoping that today would go down in history as the last day
that nuclear weapons were used.
"Yes, Sir."Commander Tucker responded as he prepared to transmit the
attack orders to U.S. Ballistic Submarines and B-2 bombers waiting just off the
Chinese coast.
Chapter Nine-Revenge to One-A Warning to Others
Under The Yellow Sea....
Position-Directly off the Chinese Coast....
Aboard the U.S.S. Georgia the incoming Emergency Action Message was being
confirmed.
The X.O. approached the Captain, "Sir, he have an authentic Emergency Action
Message."
"Alright, lets go ahead and read it." The Captain replied.
"To the Captain and crew of the U.S.S. Georgia...Remaining Chinese subs have
been eliminated. Four SLBMs' were able to launch before the the remaining
sub was engaged. B-2s' have been sent in for limited nuclear bombing of
Datong Missile Base. You are authorized to launch at predesignated targets. Set
launch clock for three minutes. End Message."
The Captain did not hesitate, reaching for the microphone, he informed the
crew. "This is the Captain. The use of strategic nuclear weapons has been auth-
orized. Set for condition 1-SQ. Weapons-this is Con-spin up missiles 1-15 and
pressurize launch tubes. Set launch clock for three minutes. This is not a drill.
I repeat this is not a drill." The X.O. began to repeat the message. "This is the
X.O. The use of strategic nuclear weapons has been authorized. Set for con-
dition 1-SQ. Weapons-this is the X.O.-spin up missiles 1-15 and pressurize
launch tubes. Set launch clock for three minutes. This is not a drill. I repeat
this is not a drill." The X.O. and the Captain waited for the response from wea-
pons. "Con-this is weapons-we are now at condition 1-SQ. Missiles 1-15 have
been spun up. All launch tubes have been pressurized. Launch clock is now at
2:55."
The deed was nearly complete. The scene would be repeated again on the
Atlanta & Virginia. In three minutes more fire-power would be released
against China, than had been released in every war combined since the dawn
of time.
Strategic Air Command HeadQuarters
Omaha, Nebraska 1:45 p.m. MST
With the President on the line, Commander Tucker was waiting for the target
list to finish printing. "Sir, the orders have been relayed to the subs, as well
as the B-2s'. The B-2s' bombs should be detonating in six minutes. We have
not detected any ICBMs' being launched. So I would assume that Zarain has
not detected them. The missiles from the subs have been timed to detonate
after the B-2s' are in a safe position. The B-2s' will merely confuse him until
the big guns go off"
"Very good. Have you got a target list yet?" The President asked.
"Yes Sir. It just finished printing." Commander Tucker scand the list before
reading it to the President, to see which cities would disappear.
TRAJECTORY HAS BEEN CONFIRMED...TARGETS INCLUDE THE FOLLOW-
ING...DALLAS.TEXAS....IMPACT IN 31 MINUTES...NEW ORLEANS.
LOUISIANA...IMPACT IN 31 MINUTES....RICHMOND.VIRGINIA...
IMPACT IN 33 MINUTES...PITTSBURG.PENNSYLVANIA...IMPACT IN
34 MINUTES...TRAJECTORY HAS BEEN CONFIRMED...
Commander Tucker read the message to the President.
"How well have these places been evacuated?" President Wilson asked.
"Sir, from what we know, we would be lucky if it's 40%." The Commander
explained regretfully.
"What kind of casualties are we looking at?" The President asked ,not really
wanting to know.
"Sir, we could be looking at 3 million easily. With another half-million dead
from secondary effects." Commander Tucker explained, trying to stay focused
on the issue at hand.
"Jesus Christ!!" The President exploded. The emotion now starting to come
through the cool exterior.
"Sir, please stay on the line a minute. We're getting another print-out. Some-
things happening." Commander Tucker asked, fearing that his worst fears
could be coming true. If the missiles were MIRV the attack could be ten times
as worse.
STAND-BY...ADDITIONAL PROJECTILES HAVE BEEN IDENTIFYED...
STAND-BY FOR IDENTIFICATION....STAND-BY...
Commander Tuckers mind ran rampant with fear that the additional warheads
were starting to separate. Instead of 4 cities being hit, there might now be 40
targets. Instead of 3-4 million deaths, there might now be 40 million or more.
Everyone in the control room stopped what they were doing, and waited for
the next report.
PROJECTILES HAVE BEEN IDENTIFYED AS TWO ADDITIONAL WAR-
HEADS...STAND-BY FOR TARGET CONFIRMATION...STAND-BY...
"Sir, we have identifyed two additional warheads. It could have been a lot
worse. There could have been an additional 40 warheads. I know that doesn't
make it any better. I'm sorry." Commander Tucked said as he informed the
President. "We should have the targets identified in a second Sir."
TRAJECTORY HAS BEEN CONFIRMED...TARGETS INCLUDE THE FOLLOW-
ING...PALM BEACH.CALIFORNIA...IMPACT IN 29 MINUTES...DOVER.
DELAWARE...IMPACT IN 32 MINUTES...TRAJECTORY HAS BEEN CON-
FIRMED...
Commander Tucker read the report to the President.
"Thank you very much for your service, Commander. You've been a true fri-
end." Trying to regain his composure the President continued. "I'll be address-
ing the nation in five minutes. Keep me updated on the status of our attack."
"Yes Sir." Commander Tucker responded.
Wednesday, May 12 4:50 a.m. BST
Datong Missile Base
Datong, China
Zarain was now aware that the Viper had been destroyed. What he did not
know was that five B-2 Stealth Bombers each armed with a 1/2 megaton
nuclear warhead were living up to their reputation. They had slipped into
Chinese airspace and were well on their way to Datong.
Zarain continued to pace franticly. All of his trump cards had been destroyed,
yet the Americans had not retaliated. Why? Having given up on General Ping-
Changs advice, he was debating in his mind whether or not to launch his ICBM
force as a last ditch effort. Or should he just threaten to do so. Perhaps he
could pull out of India, in exchange for control of southeast asia. Maybe he
could just offer to do so, and he might be able to get something out of it.
He could not have imagined that himself, along with his empire was about
to crumble, worst than Rome ever did.
As he continued to pace, one of the officers in charge of Zarains' Missile Early
Warning Station approached him.
"My Lord, we have detected five missiles that appear to be heading right for
us. They were not launched by a submarine. They just appeared out of no
where. One minute the screen was blank, the next there were missiles well in-
to our airspace."
"Could it be a malfunction? A falling meteor, or something?" Zarain questioned
grasping for salvation.
"Perhaps, My Lord. However we won't know until the projected impact, which
is in 8 seconds" The Officer answered hoping that it was a malfunction. There
was no other reason that could explain it. The next eight seconds lasted for
decades as all watched the T.T.D. clock. 8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1......
Right on time the missiles detonated. The power was instantly cut-off. The
building began to shake like a minor earthquake. Zarain and the General were
thrown to the floor. However, the structural integrity of the building was not
damaged.
Above ground the B-2s' had 20 seconds left to get as far away from Datong
as possible. They were being pushed to the limits as they gained altitude and
distance. They knew what was on the way, and there was no time for sight-
seeing.
The back-up power brought the lights and computers back on.
"Report!!" Zarain demanded.
"My Lord, the monitors show that there was five nuclear detonations, direct-
ly above us. They also have detected almost 50 missiles that have breached
our air-space. Ten of which are headed this way, impact in 12 seconds." The
officer hopelessly explained.
"Are we able to launch anything is there any time?!!!" Zarain shouted as he
put his fist into one of the computers.
"My Lord, we don't have.............."
With that, the final chain-reaction necessary took place. The greatest power in
the universe was released. An enormous amount of energy-not seen on earth
since its' creation-exploded with the fury of an angry God. Datong, and all its'
missiles, disappeared. The fireball started to expand. Nothing stood in its' way.
Not cities, not mountains. Earthquakes all through interior China were tri-
ggered. Nearly five minutes later the fireball climaxed at some 90 miles
across. In Japan, Tokyo and the rest of the nation were in the dark as the E.M.
pulse passed over the island.
For China and its' residents the horror was to be repeated again and again.
For the nation that had the longest recorded history on earth, some 7,000
years, it would exist no more. The last pages written by a madman.
Tuesday, May 11 12:55 p.m. PST
San Bernardino Mountains, California
Auther & Alicia were holding each other tight as they listened to the reports
from Orlando. The death, the devastation, it was but a precursor of the things
to come. It was the beginning of the end. Alicia had tried to reach her mom
in New Mexico, but the phones were jammed. Auther was silent, what do you
say to someone at the end of the world?
"Ladies & Gentlemen-the President of the United States."
"My fellow Americans. As most of you are all aware of by now, a horrific act
of terror and cowardice was committed against our country about one hour
ago. This act was committed my a man who sought nothing but absolute pow-
er. The expression of how far he was willing to go to attain this power was the
destruction of Orlando, Florida by a 5 megaton nuclear weapon.
Shortly after the missile was launched that destroyed Orlando, a Chinese
submarine surrendered to U.S. forces off the coast of Peru. These patriots
supplied us with information that led to the elimination of the third and final
Chinese submarine.
However, it pains me to say, that in a final act of desperation, Zarain ordered
the final submarine to launch its' missiles at the United States. Before it was
taken out, four missiles, with a total of six warheads were launched.
It saddens my soul to say this, but I felt I could not keep the information
hidden from the public any longer. In 15 minutes the following cities will be
subjected to nuclear attack. Dallas, Texas-New Orleans, Louisiana-Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania-Richmond, Virginia-Dover, Delaware and Palm Springs, Calif-
ornia. It can be expected that there will be at least 5 million deaths. It can be
expected that there will be close to $4 trillion of property damage.
While this is a terrible and devastating lost, I would like to look at it as 285
million lives being saved. Our country has suffered great tests before in our
history. The Civil War took almost as many lives, and at a time when our pop-
ulation was considerably smaller than it is today. Yet we rose from the ashes
like the Phoenix. We rose from those ashes to become the greatest military
and industrial superpower mankind has every know. We will rise from these
ashes, to be greater and stronger than we have ever been before.
NART crews, all chapters of the Red Cross, all divisions of FEMA, as well as
all branches of the Armed Forces-including all Reserve Units-and all National
Guard Units will be standing by to provide shelter, food relief, financial aid,
and all other aspects of recovery assistance. I am authorizing the full-sale of
the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, to help lower prices during the recovery per-
iod. I am also authorizing the sale of a significant portion of the United States
Gold Reserve, to help provide financial assistance. Final I am also authorizing
the complete sale of the United States Grain, Soybean, Wheat, and Corn res-
erves, to provide food for those who need it, and to help lower prices during
the recovery period. I am also pleased to announce that Canada, and the
European Union, have pledged their support in any way possible.
It is my hope that the restrictions on air, land and other means of travel will
be lifted soon. We hope to have all of our ports reopened immediately. We will
make it thru this together.
On a final note, I would like to comment on our response to Zarain. Today we
have done what we had to do. Zarain was counting on America to be passive-
he counted wrong. Today the nation of China no longer exists. A number of
targets were hit. Including the Datong Missile Base, as well as all conventional
military centers-no matter how insignificant. Finally all centers of Political
Importance were targeted. I will let General Riley explain the attack in detail
later, but let me close on why this attack was carried out. One-
To eliminate all
Strategic Military Assets of China-whether nuclear or conventional.Two-
In
retaliation to the unprovoked attack upon our country by Zarain. Finally-
to
serve as a vivid warning to others who may consider such an attack on this
country in the future.
Thank You and may God continue to bless this nation as he has in the past."
Dallas-Ft. Worth International Airport
Dallas, Texas 1:08 p.m. MST
Time was running out. The giant airport had been emptyed. An updated ver-
sion of the Patriot Missile Defence System, the Patriot-E2, was the cities only
hope. With just two minutes left until missile impact, the crew was concen-
trating on the incoming missile. At the appropriate time they would fire a
missile of their own. Armed with a 1 kiloton tactical nuclear missile, they
merely needed to get close to the incoming warhead.
A crowd of thousands had gathered in the downtown streets. Unlike other
cities that were not going to be hit, there was not any rioting in Dallas. Why
riot and loot if your going to be vaporized in a few minutes.
Instead the crowd, knowing their time was near, collectively gazed to the sky.
Seconds later the sound of an explosion broke their unity, as some looked
around to see what it was. Gazing back to the sky, the crowd noticed a vapor
trail heading up into the heavens. It was closing in on another vapor trail that
was headed for city hall.
Seconds later a small fireball erupted in the upper atmosphere, high above
the clouds.
Nearly a minute went by and the crowd was still alive. But still silent, they
continued to watch the sky above.
At three minutes later, several police helicopters began to circle the city, with
their megaphones at maximum volume. "The is the Dallas Police Department,
the United States Army is confirming that the missile targeted at Dallas, has
been destroyed. Repeat, the missile targeted at Dallas, has been destroyed."
The crowd erupted in cheers. Neighbors, unknown to each other, embraced
in hugs. Passersby, who would never talk to anyone they didn't know, em-
braced, not saying a word. They didn't need to-for that one moment-however-
brief-only one thing was on everyone's mind.
Others would not be so lucky.
San Bernardino Mountains, California 11:10 a.m. PST
The long and agonizing wait was nearly over. Knowing that they were at a
safe distance, Auther & Alicia had made their way to their front porch. From
their viewpoint, high in the mountains, they could see almost anywhere in
the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. They would be able to witness the
explosion, reassured in the knowledge that they would survive.
Auther placed his arm around Alicia to comfort her. He knew it would be al-
right, but yet at the same time, he knew, that no matter how much people re-
built, things were never going to be the same again.
Looking out over the desert paradise, the light, although not blinding, was
very intense. A huge fireball began to rise above the city. A pillar of smoke
was extending into the clouds, and was now beginning to form the all to
familiar mushroom shaped cloud.
Placing her head on Authers' shoulder, a warm wind carressed Alicias' face.
She said nothing. Standing there overlooking the destruction both were
reflecting on the events of the last two days. How unaware they were that
such an event could take place. They had never given it a thought. Caught
up in the routine of day to day living, it was never given any consideration.
Whether by chance, or an act of God, they were one of the lucky ones. Never
again would they argue over insignificant things. If there was but one thing
each learned from this experience, it is that so many things which could pro-
foundly effect them, were beyond their control, and that we are always teet-
ering on a thin line between life and death.
Chapter Ten-The Aftermath
In the days after the third world war, the United Nations, under pressure
from the United States and other NATO countries, passed the Security Council
Resolution 1215. This led to the partition of China. Under the agreement-the
United States, having suffered the brunt of the damage from Zarain, would
control almost 2/3s of the country. All areas east of 100 Longitude would
fall under the authority of the United States. This included the former North
Korea, which had granted its' sovereignty to Zarain during the conflict.
A peace agreement was immediately reached with South Korea. Shortly after-
ward the United States negotiated and supervised the reunification of the
Korean Peninsula. The capital was moved to Kaesong, just north of the form-
er DMZ.
The remaining 1/3 would go to Germany, as they were the only other country
to have suffered considerable civilian deaths at the hands of Zarain. Most of
what they received was uninhabited areas of the Himalayan mountains.
However, it was the symbolism that mattered.
As for the areas that were occupied by Zarain, they were all returned to the
rightful countries. Under another United Nations Security Council resolution,
it was mandated that a trust fund would be set up, to be funded by a 5% nat-
ional sales tax, to be paid by residents of both the German & American sides
of the former China. It was mandated that this tax would remain in effect for
at least the next 100 years. At which time it would be reviewed and voted on
by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
The money would be divided up equally and paid directly to the nations that
were attacked by Zarain. It would stand as a silent reminder of one of human-
ities darkess hours.
As for the damage suffered by the United States. The missile that was tar-
geted at Palm Springs hit the remote city of Joshua Tree, almost 25 miles
off course.
Another missile that was targeted at Dover, Delaware detonated in the
Atlantic Ocean, almost 500 miles off course.
Not all areas were spared. New Orleans-Richmond-Pittsburg-and-Orlando
were all the recipients of a nuclear warhead.
Reconstruction began immediately. Monuments the size of skyscrapers were
built in each city. Written upon them were the names of every person who
died on that horrific day. Along with a tribute and a warning to future gener-
ations.
When the final numbers were all totaled, history would write that close to
3 1/2 million Americans lost their lives. There was almost 4 1/4 trillion
dollars worth of property damage.
In Germany, almost 550,000 lost their lives in the attack on Munich. A monu-
ment similar to the ones in America was erected there also. Close to 1 trillion
dollars of property damage was caused.
In the Asian region were Zarain had first begun his rain of terror, 2 million
people were killed. Nearly 1 1/2 trillion dollars of property damage was sus-
tained.
In the United States, the November elections were held on schedule. Presi-
dent Wilson ran unopposed and swept all 50 states. The House Bills author-
izing implementation of Ballistic Missile Defence were passed with no opposing
votes, and were promptly signed by President Wilson. The United States then,
along with Russia, cancelled the 1972 Anti-Ballistic-Missile Treaty. Both
signed a new treaty which called for the construction of a global missile
defense system to protect almost all of the world. All but the most dangerous
states were not included, namely Iran, Iraq, Lybia and Pakistain.
The new era of cooperation and security also led to further reductions of
nuclear weapons held by Russia and the United States.
India, which had its' nuclear arsenal destroyed by Zarain, pledged not to re-
build it, since they were now under protection of the Global Missile Defense
System.
Auther & Alicia remained in California and two years later were blessed with
a healthy baby girl. Tom Manning remained in the Air Force. He moved with
his son to Colorado, where he was transferred. Diania was a member of the
Nuclear Attack Response Team who went into Orlando, shortly after the
attack. She was part of the crew who unearthed John and the others from the
FEMA shelter. She went into premature labor two days later, nevertheless, she
gave birth to a healthy baby boy.
They were all joined by the most horrific event in mankinds' history. A scar
that would remain on the minds of the world for centuries. All would ask the
same question......Why???
JAMES WILLIAM STANSELL -JUNE 1996