The Secret City

Cooperative: ''This story is coordinated by Laveaux. It is open to any new writers with characters alive during the year 1947 and have access to Russia. The coordinator asks that any writers that do join the story, complete a character description in accordance with this article. Note that writers can only write for their characters, the coordinator will write for all other characters and events. Use the talk page if you have questions or suggestions.

Current Active Writers:
 * Laveaux
 * Kerensky''

It was quite late when the train arrived to Moscow. With a pained moan Alexei stretched his legs to start the circulation. He spent day and a half sitting on a hard floor of the cargo car, but a smile spread across his face. He was coming home. After 3 years away he was back in Moscow.

He waited patiently for the others to leave and jumped down to help a lady with a child to get down. He waved her thanks away and with a mock salute slung his bag on the shoulder and started towards the station building.

He was surprised to see so many policemen around, but decided it was better to leave the questions for later when he was back at Yelena's apartment.

A quick pat of his jacket pockets assured him that he really was out of cigarettes. He scanned the surroundings and spotted a policeman smoking. With a smile he headed that way and saluted casually.

"Comrade, might I trouble you for a cigarette? I've been in that blasted train for a day and a half and am fresh out. The best thing about the Red Army on offensive is that you never lack cigarettes. Even if they are made in Germany. So, what do you say? Spare one for the soldier on his way home?"

--Kerensky

The policeman only offered a passing glance to Alexei as he approached. His face was quite young, but his eyes showed a much greater age. Unblinking and observant, he allowed only enough of a connection to portray he heard the soldier speak.

Looking over Alexei's shoulder, he reached into his breast pocket and pulled a pack Crimean blend cigarettes. Flicking his wrist, one popped its head out of the package for easy retreival. Once the cigarette was removed, he took one for himself. Lighting first Alexei's he lit his own and took a thoughtful drag, all the while keeping his eyes on the passengers of the train as they left.

"You fought the Germans?" He asked.

His accent was Balkan, perhaps Serbian or Croatian.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei took a long pull of the smoke and breathed out with his eyes closed.

"It is a bad habit I know, but it feels so good. You ask if I fought the Germans. Well, you could say that. I was with the 16th Rifle Division and leter got transfered to 6th Guards. I saw my share of the killing. Even been at the Berlin in the end. Artillery pounded them for days and still they crawled out from the holes and fought. And then when it was over I was told that we shall remain in Berlin to protect it from British and American troops. Been there almost two years. Finally going home. Or rather my sisters home since my own was destroyed by the Germans. Lost both parents in the fighting. But, I ramble. Tell, me what is new in Moscow? I always liked the State Circus, but I heard that the Germans destroyed it back in 1941. Did they ever rebuild it? I sure would like to go there for a show."

Alexei chatted away oblivious to the policeman's obvious disinterest. He was home and nothing could change the way he felt. And though he was eager to see Yelena, he still liked the conversation. Even one sided as this one was so far.

--Kerensky

"Yes, the circus proceeds. It was the will of the people to be entertained in their dark hour."

The man took a heavy pull and then said as he exhaled, "You would be pleased to visit Gorky Park. These are good days upon us. The people will have a year like none other."

The policeman changed his tone suddenly and for the first time made eye contact, "You are a soldier. Do you see this man behind you? He has blond hair, a simple black suit and blue eyes. Look, but do not be noticed. Tell me what is wrong with this man."

As indicated, a man fitting that description left the train. He carried a violin case a shoulder bag, and was smoking a cigarette with a filter. A newspaper under his arm could not be identified at their distance. He looked to all corners of the station and began walking away.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei turned to his shoulder and pretended to wipe some dirt from his jacket. His eyes flicked to the side and he scanned the man policeman pointed out. It was a mere second or so before he turned back.

He waited a few seconds before he spoke.

"At first glance nothing. But, the man looked everywhere. So, he is either looking for someone or is making sure he is not being watched. Probably the second. For, if he was looking for someone or if someone was supposed to be waiting for him, he would have stayed and waited. Now, if he was guilty of something he would have evaded police, but he did not keep his eyes on you. So, he does not fear the police, but someone else. But, he did not seek police protection and that puzzles me."

He smiled and took another pull from the cigarette.

"Am I close?"

--Kerensky

The policeman smiled and continued smoking.

"Perceptive. You were good in your trade, comrade. This man is not afraid of the police. The public police. It is the others he looks for. He carries very important information from our allies. This man is bringing information to an enemy."

Pausing to smoke he continued, "If you are interested you can come with me and see the police at work serving the people."

Last edited by Laveaux on Mon Apr 18, 2005 9:31 pm; edited 2 times in total

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"Let us go. I did not fight for this country for six years to allow someone to sell it to filthy foreigners. As for being good, I would not be alive if I weren't good. Every tree could hide an SS sniper. But, let us talk later. Rodina (fatherland) comes first."

Alexei threw the cigarette to the ground and snuffed it out with his shoe. Motioning for the policeman to proceed he adjusted the straps of his backpack and felt the knife hidden under his jacket.

Last edited by Kerensky on Tue Apr 19, 2005 9:44 am; edited 1 time in total

--Kerensky

The policeman started a brisk walk to catch up to the man, as he jogged up a staircase exiting the station. As he went, he introduced himself, "I am Pyotr, pleasure to meet a soldier of the people."

His calculating blue eyes followed the perpetrator up the stairs and although he did not run after him, his pace was brisk.

"We are backing them up," he explained quietly.

The stairs took a thin crowd of people from the artful station into a windy, snow-flurried cold night above. The air bit exposed skin and eyes instinctively squinted to avoid the chill. Outside, the snow-littered streets were free of cars and very nearly free of pedestrians.

The blond man quickly looked around, pausing in his step. There was a a couple walking the streets arm in arm, an older man watching the domed skyline of Moscow and another gentleman sitting on a bench on the sidewalk of the street.

The man half glanced behind where they were standing and then forward. His face melted into panic. Suddenly falling into a sprint, he dropped everything but the violin case. The man on the bench and the couple immediately charged after him, as did Pyotr.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei started running as well, but kept back a few paces. This was police business and although he was asked to help, only one man knew what he was doing. But, still he tried to keep up in case the police needed help.

He slowed down and scooped the newspaper man was carrying and then continued his run. It was possible that the man was just luring the police away while his accomplice picked up the real documents.

Even, though it was cold outside, Alexei just narrowed his eyelids. He was used to the cold and snow. He remembered the days he spent in the open waiting for the Germans to come. The day he received the news of his parents death. The day he was recruited. The day he was told he had to remain in Germany. The day German sniper killed Sergeant Kivarov spraying blood all over his face. And then he redoubled his efforts and ran after the traitor.

--Kerensky

The chase went for several blocks, but the man running seemed quite athletic, able to keep a steady pace ahead of them. Now in a warehouse district, he had better places to escape the pursuit. The man took a sudden left and scaled a chain link fence hopping effortlessly to the other side. The couple split up, the woman maintaining pursuit and the man went to circle the block.

Pyotr and Alexei reached the fence at about the same time, but the two secret policemen behind were not too far behind. Alexei had yet to be winded, however his companion was already breathing loudly.

On the other side of the fence, the perpetrator ducked into an alleyway behind two three-storey windowless warehouse buildings.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

With a quick glance behind his shoulder, Alexei noted the winded policeman. He shrugged slightly and then leapt at the fence without slowing down. The newspapers he picked were folded in his pocket and were safe for the moment.

With a slight alarm he remembered that the fugitive might be armed and noted the fact that all he had was a knife. In a run, he scanned the ground looking for a piece of rock or some other suitable object he could throw at a man if need presented itself.

As he neared the corner, Alexei was prepared to jump to the side at any sign of danger.

--Kerensky

Landing in an explosion of snow, Alexei's ankles were jarred, but only causing enough pain to hesitate. Scrambling back into a run it was now evident he was the closest one to the perpetrator. Reeling around the corner, he spotted a pile of wood on the side of the warehouse. Picking up a club-sized piece of wood as he went he spotted the target kicking open the backdoor to the warehouse.

Alexei's suspicions were confirmed when he was suddenly faced with a drawn pistol. The man let loose two wild fires that landed nowhere near him and then barrelled into the warehouse.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei flinched at the sight of pistol, but continued after the traitor. Now it was personal. And besides the man was a lousy shot. He hefted the piece of wood in his hand and rushed to the warehouse door. But, instead of rushing straight in, Alexei waited for a second or two. Ex-soldier took a long breath and backed up a few step and then ran into the door

But, before the door even started to open he was already rolling on the ground letting first his shoulder and then his back open the door to let him through. At the end of the roll he quickly scanned the surroundings and had the piece of wood at the ready. As soon as he saw the man from the station the wood was flying towards the unsuspecting victim.

But, even if the man was hiding Alexei was prepared. He even anticipated that. He was ready to roll into the first cover if more than a second passed before he detected the traitor.

--Kerensky

A dense thud resonated through his shoulder as the door buckled underneath the momentum. His spine absorbed the remainder of the shoulder roll and now properly dispersed the pain fleeted into a distant ache. On his feet now, the darkness inside betrayed his senses.

Streetlights betrayed the perpetrator, however and his pale skin reflected enough of the light to disclose his position, not 5 meters from where Alexei stood. The board went airborne and in the next moment the man collapsed into a pile of wooden crates letting out a muffled cry as he went.

Eyes now adjusting to the warehouse a sea of storage presented itself. Crates stacked three stories in neat aisles surrounded them. The man could not have run farther then 5 meters before hitting the wall of crates he just fell into.

In the dim light it was difficult to tell if he was conscious and if he still carried the gun.

--Laveaux 09:19, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei smiled as the wood hit the tractor and let a short cry of triumph as he struggled to regain his feet. His left knee creaked and a stab of pain shot through his calf and thigh. It took him a moment to adjust to the darkness and then Alex was on the move again.

He did not like people who wore weapons and shot him, so he had to make sure that the stranger was out cold. Half a dozen running steps and a leap were measured to bring him there as soon as possible. Ex soldier extended his left hand and drew back his right. His eyes searched for the man's head and as soon as his left hand touched the other man's clothing he would swing his right. The momentum of the leap and a swing which Alexei timed so as not too hit the man too hard and hurt his own hand. But, the impact should be enough to knock anyone unconscious.

Alexei took temporary flight as he leapt over the warehouse floor. The darkness radiating around him he could see only the faint glow of the downed man's face below him. Landing did not go as elegantly as his shoulder roll, however. Snow having been drug in by the perpetrator already melted to slush. As Alexei landed he lost his footing and tumbled forward ontop of the enemy.

The man grunted and tossed Alexei off with his shoulders and the ex-soldier tumbled onto his back. The perpetrator recovered his stance and gripped the back of his neck painfully. In the next moment he would bolt into the darkness.

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei did not expect to fall, but luckily did not get hurt when he hit the ground. And the man was obviously an amateur in this. And Alexei did not survive the war by being and amateur.

He rolled onto his left side and lashed with his right leg aiming roughly at the fugitives knee. At the same time his right hand darted behind his back and found the grip of his old bayonet.

Using the momentum of the kick he pivoted onto his left knee and started to rise as the knife flashed in his hand. The man might run, but if Alexei could hurt his legs then he would not be able to run fast enough. A knife stab into the man's thigh would slow him down enough for the others to catch up to them.

--Kerensky

The Soviet Union trained her soldiers to war without the benefits of a wealthy nation. In the Berlin invasion, most of it was fought eye-to-eye on the streets in an urban setting. Unfortunately for the perpetrator, Alexei was bread in this tradition. A western soldier would lose all notions of combat with vision or firearms, but this one knew just where to strike.

The two-part move ended with the man buckling under the weight of Alexei's boot and with the ex-soldier in stance gripping a bayonet. The rough sole the boot did little to help the unfortunate fellow who crumbled to the ground with a wailing grunt.

It only took seven pounds of pressure to break a kneecap.

He was subdued, throwing his arms in the air, dropping the case, and saying in broken Russian, "Please ... no..."

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

The soldier was surprised to hear the crack of the man's knee. He did not know the strike was that hard, but accepted the fact easily. If the strike was not that successful, it would have been followed with the knife stab anyway. This just made the whole business less bloody.

As the man raised his hands in surrender, Alexei felt revulsion.

"You disgust me traitor. Not, so brave now that you no longer hold the gun. Don't worry. I won't hurt you anymore if you don't do anything stupid. Just roll onto your stomach and keep your hands on the back of your head. One wrong move and I will gut you like a fish."

He had no intention of doing it, but the man did not know that. As the traitor complied, Alexei slowly walked to him and kept the knife at the ready.

"Tell me now. Why did you do it? And for what? Money? What? And what is so important to betray your motherland? Who or what could make you betray what I and hundreds of thousands of other Russians fought for? Betray those millions of dead? Or better yet, save it for the police. I don't want to know. Just lay still and don't move a lot."

With one hand Alexei loosened his belt and pulled it out so he could tie the man's hands behind his back.

--Kerensky

"Please ...", the man continued to beg, "I'm not traitor. I'm man of business..." his Russian sounded terrible, "I'm American... please..."

He obeyed, rolling onto his stomach, tears rushing down his face as he moved his leg with the broken joint.

"I'm just doing my job..." he said trying to answer Alexei's passionate questions, "I swear ... I am not a spy... I work for a company. For an oil company..."

He offered little resistance to his hands being bound, melting into a weeping mass of flesh.

The sound of clapping sounded from behind as the entourage of police arrived in the doorway. The couple and unmarked policeman jogged up, one man slapping an appreciative hand on Alexei's shoulder. Pyotr lit a cigarette.

"Are you looking for work, comrade?" He smiled.

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was just about to ask the man why he was running and why he had a gun, when he heard the clapping. He turned slowly and smiled. he moved away from the 'American' and shrugged.

"A job you say? Well, I was not looking, but if you are offering, who am I to decline. As for our friend there, he was armed with a pistol, but he dropped it somewhere in here. We should look for it before we finish our business here. And his knee is hurt. Probably broken. I hit him a bit too hard when he tried to run away."

Alexei's hand darted to his pants as they started to slide down and he smiled once more.

"And if you would be so kind to tie his hands with something else, so I could have my belt back. And an odd thing is the man claims to be a American. says he was just doing his job. Like I would have let him go, right after I chased his all this way and after he tried to shoot me. He must take me for a fool."

Alexei itched to ask what the man did wrong and why they were chasing him, but knew better than to ask. If they wanted him to know they would tell him. If not, well why should he place himself in harms way for someone who fired a pistol at him.

--Kerensky

Pyotr skillfully dislodged handcuffs from his belt and bound the man securely, returning the ex-soldier's belt with a grin.

"You are rather innovative," he said.

The two other men hoisted the American up and shoved him against the wall of crates, searching him. The woman who looked more like someone's gentle mother than a member of the police, briefly jaunted around the entryway until she discovered the pistol.

One of the men, the one that was stationed alone at the bench, brought his attention to Alexei.

"He is a business man and has done illegal work in our country. Creating profits where none should be had. A broken knee is only the first of a series of painful experiences until he discloses all of his friends."

The man said it loud and slow enough to be sure their prisoner heard.

"Pyotr likes you, perhaps we shall set up an interview. You can start tonight by helping us deal with this piece of garbage."

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei did not like this talk about pain, but his scowl could be mistaken as a disdain for the foreigner. He looked him up and down once more and smiled.

"Is it a custom for businessmen to wear firearms in your country, American? Is business done at gunpoint there? Or are you just an exception?"

As the man continued Alexei nodded grimly.

"Interview can wait. As for this scum here, I'll help you in any way I can. Just tell me what to do."

--Kerensky

Pyotr wiped some sweat from his brow and said, "Comrade, you've done quite enough. Come to the Lubyanka tomorrow and you can begin working for the people. Give me your name so they'll know you are expected."

The weeping coward of a man folded under the arms of the secret police as they hoisted him to his feet.

Pyotr took a thoughtful drag of a cigarette and followed the others out of the warehouse.

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"Alexei. Alexei Sudarov. Corporal of the Red Army. Well the, if you don't mind I would like to go to my sisters home and get some sleep. I'll be at the Lubyanka tomorrow morning. Take care."

With a shake of the hand he said goodbye to Pyotr and left through the warehouse door. Once he got outside, Alexei took a deep breath and watched steam form as he exhaled. Only now, the danger he was in fully sank in. The adrenaline was gone, and he realized that he could have died. With a shudder he pulled the collar of his coat up and walked around a bit trying to find his way out of the warehouse complex.

It took him a few minutes to find the way back to the station and once there, he quickly oriented himself and set off. Even with Alexei's brisk pace, it took some twenty minutes for the ex-soldier to reach the unimposing grey building where his sister lived. It was then that the emotions overtook him.

Unable to hold back the tears he ran into a dark corner and stood there for a few minutes before his weakness was over. Then, wiping the tears off, Alexei set off to the third floor.

'Sudarov' it read at the door. His hand stopped a few inches from the bell, but he just took a deep breath and pressed the button. It took a moment for the thin line of light to appear beneath the door and soon a faint mumbling could be heard. Door opened a fragment and his sisters sleepy face appeared in the crack. It took a moment for Yelena's eyes to register what they were seeing and then a shrill yell sounded from her lips and the door was thrown wide open.

The girl jumped into his arms and soon he was fighting back her tears and kisses and laughing. A few of the neighbors appeared at their door, apparently awoken by all the noise they were making. But, their grim expressions soon changed into smiles as they heard Yelena saying "My brother, My dear brother.' over and over again.

After a few minutes she calmed down a bit and led him inside. A tea was soon brewing in the samovar and she was sitting in the chair opposite him and just holding his hand.

It was another hour or so, before she finally allowed him to get into bed after talking to him all the time. Alexei merely managed to take his clothes off, before fatigue overtook him and he just collapsed into bed, his last thought being the interview he had tomorrow.

--Kerensky

Morning offered very little to view on the ground. Cloud cover blocked the sky and beneath the heavy air snow sprinkled. A blizzard the night before covered most of the land with several inches of fresh and dry snow. Frigid temperatures have frozen the wet snow and the cobblestone streets of Moscow were dangerously iced over. The Moskva River was all but frozen and only the Red Guard were out, bundled in fur hats and heavy trench coats marked with the signature red star.

The snow almost completely camouflaged the Lubyanka complex on the edge of Red Square. The multi-story notorious building rested with a simple architecture. The smallest of three gray concrete buildings was the center of the KGB. Resting behind the notorious prison, the offices of the secret police were on the top three floors.

On the main floor of the headquarters there were half a dozen guards bundled in trench coats and hats keeping visitors out of the the various corridors. A large simple desk was positioned in front of the door where a security officer waited. He wore a simple black suit and a hammer and sickle badge on his lapel. Greasy black hair was combed back and a large pair of spectacles rested on a once broken nose.

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

It was a few minutes past 8, when Alexei reached the Lubyanka. He knew all the stories and was even a little scared himself, but knew that he was just being foolish. He watched the building fro across the square for a few minutes before finally he gathered enough courage to enter.

It was so strange that a place as notorious as Lubyanka was so innocent looking. The guards allowed him inside without a bother. After all it was not that hard to get in. It was almost impossible to leave, and that was the problem.

Without a visible emotion ex-soldier just strode to the front desk and stood at attention. Old habits died hard. With a smile he relaxed somewhat and nodded to the man.

"God morning, comrade. Corporal Alexei Sudarov reporting. I should have a scheduled interview this morning."

--Kerensky

The greasy black-haired man regarded Alexei with little expression and flipped through several pages on his desk. Running his finger down the list, he found what he was looking for and nodded.

"Yes, Corporal, you are expected."

Handing him a lapel visitor's badge he added, "You will find Comrade Yaroslav's office on the third floor."

The discussion was over and he returned to studying his papers. Free to walk into the Lubyanka, the guards around the lobby paid him little attention. The third floor was as simple as the first two. Drab gray carpet, white-washed cinderblock walls, and florescent electric lights running single-file down the ceiling. Dozens of offices presented themselves on this floor and most of the doors were closed.

Toward the center of the hall a door was marked simply "Yaroslav, Yerik" and it was open enough to reveal the contents inside. A nondescript office home to a desk by three blocky windows and two filing cabinets. The man who helped apprehend the perpetrator was inside. It was the man first seen on the park bench with a hat. Without his hat, it was clear he'd long ago lost his hair. A rolling face bound only by thick-edged glasses peered up.

"Ah, you came," he said, "come in, come in."

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei took his visitor's badge and hung it on his coat. Seeing that no additional information was forthcoming he just nodded and proceeded to the stairs.

He did not rush, but his steps were swift and he did not linger in the halls. Although the ex-solider was curious, he curbed it and just walked to his destination. He knew that most of the things happening here were secret and that to see them or speak of them would be inviting trouble.

He noticed the opened door and took a deep breath before he knocked and pushed the door open. A small smile crept across his face when he recognized the man at the desk.

"Good morning, comrade Yerik. I was told you were the man to meet. Something concerning a job?"

--Kerensky

"Yes, yes, please sit."

Yerik offered a seat in front of his desk and then shuffled some papers to discover which one he was looking for.

"Our uniformed police officer spoke highly of you and, well frankly, comrade, we could not have gotten our prize last night with your help. If you are still eager to serve the people, I have some moderate work for you.

"It seems some very important information was leaked to the United States and we must ensure that the operation is not compromised. Pyotr is our primary agent on this mission, but he requested your back-up and based on last night's performance you can have it if you want it.

"Before you agree, you should know that your mission will take you to Siberia. But service to the people knows no bounds, right comrade?"

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was struck with conflicting emotions. He just arrived here and still had to settle in and already he was to go away. He thought for a moment about refusing the offer, but then he realized that it may not be the wisest choice.

"May I sit while I think about it, comrade?" - the ex-soldier said and sat down without waiting for a reply. Yaroslav already offered him the seat but Alexei had forgotten about that. He almost missed the seat, but managed to sit and sat there for a full minute or so.

He knew that it was a one time opportunity. He also knew that it would probably be dangerous. It pained him to know that he would leave Yelena alone again. But, on the other hand it was a steady job. And well paid according to rumors. And he needed a job. Considering the skills he had, it would probably be another mine somewhere in the mountains. And that would mean leaving Yelena as well. And if he performed well this one time, maybe he would return to the city and stay there.

Finally he mumbled a bit and raised his eyes to look at comrade Yerik again.

"I accept. It would be foolish to say no. Even if it means going to Siberia. It is a far away place, but I shall return someday if all is well. And it is an honor for anyone to work for the benefit of Motherland. The only thing that remains to be done is to learn the details of this assignment. And to prepare for travel."

Alexei grinned and shook his head slightly.

"And judging by my work so far, enemies of the state better beware or they are in for a world of hurt."

--Kerensky

Smiling broadly, the KGB man said, "Excellent, I am pleased to have you. Please."

He took a bottle of vodka from his desk and poured two shots. Waiting for Alexei to take his, he said, "We have much work to do. You may or may not realize that the General Secretary has been working on creating nuclear weapons so that we may have defense against the west.

"All research and development has been going in a secret Siberian city called Uzbekigrad. We believe that the secrecy of this city was compromised and so we must send trusted comrades to find out.

"You shall leave on the train as soon as possible. How much time do you need to prepare?"

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"Well considering that I have not unpacked yet and that I have been in the Army for past 6 years I can leave immediately. But, I would like some time to say good bye to my sister and to get a little rest. Would it be all right if we left in the morning or if time is of the essence this evening?"

Alexei took a sip of the liquor and savoured the taste. He was an army man and the best way to keep yourself warm n watch was to have a strong drink. But, never too much, or it could mean death or worse.

"As for hose nuclear weapons you mention, it is about damned time. We are no worse than Americans and the sooner we develop these super weapons the better. Right now they have an upper edge even if our Armies are superior to theirs, in numbers at least. But, what would be my mission?"

--Kerensky

"You can depart in the morning as you wish. Pyotr will escort you to a private car on the Transiberian. Your mission is rather simple and I believe you are overqualified for the task.

"Simply accompany Pyotr to Uzbekigrad and ensure his safety as he investigates the security protocols and interviews the administration. You will be a bodyguard and secretary to the officer. If security was compromised you will assist Pyotr in apprehending the culprits and returning them to Moscow for further interrogation.

"We do not want to cause alarm with the researchers there, so to the people you are only there to check up on things and report to Moscow. Any information about a security breach is classified.

"It is for that reason we only send two. This mission is very dangerous, you understand. You will be far too deep into Siberia to get assistance if you need it. You must be very careful.

"I hope you understand that not even your sister may know of your whereabouts, even after you return."

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"All right then. I talk to no one about the mission and Pyotr and I meet at the station in the morning. If that would be all comrade, I won't take any more of your time. I'll direct all my questions to Pyotr as we travel. It is a long road and there will be plenty of time. Good bye, comrade Yerin. I hope we meet again soon."

Without any hesitation Alexei rose and extended his hand. As soon as Yerin released it, he turned and stopped at the door. Turning he stood there with a creased face.

"Oh, one more thing. How could I get my hands on some sort of handgun. You said there might be danger, and it pays to be ready. And I doubt a rifle would be appropriate. Even though I am better with it."

Alexei waited for a response with a hopeful expression.

--Kerensky

The KGB man smiled as Alexei stood and took his hand firmly.

"Very good, comrade. You serve the people well."

Returning to his seat he began working on notes, presumably for Alexei's assignment. At his request he barely looked up.

"Yes, of course. Pyotr will have firearms and other equipment you will need for the mission."

A though suddenly crossed Yerin's face and he said as Alexei left, "Oh, one more thing. Trust no one. America can be very crafty if they want to."

--Laveaux 09:29, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei left the office and stopped outside. He looked for a bench and settled there. It was just too much. Only now he realiyed what he had done. Both pride and shame filled his thoughts at the same time.

Pride for he had found something worthz to do. He had a job and for the first time he knew that he was doing something for his country other than killing the Germans. But, again he could not speak of it and he had to leave his sister. Again, after he just returned. And he could not tell her where he was going.

With a deep sigh he got up. There was no use delazing the inevitable. With absent mind he descended the stairs down and left his badge at the desk without a word. He waited to see if anything else was needed and then proceded outside.

With reluctance he decided to call a taxi and spped his way back home.

--Kerensky

Pyotr was very happy to see Alexei when he arrived at the station. Taking him into their own private box car of the train, he offered vodka and blini and cheerfully discussed their run-in with the traitor. Apparently, Pyotr learned this man worked for North Industries, an American oil company. They'd learned of Stalin's nuclear program and that was why Pyotr had to go and ensure security was not breeched.

Conversation dwindled after a while and before long he had succumbed to the boredom of watching the tundra fly by. The farther the train went the more cold and bleak the exterior became. Steady rocking and unchanging scenary left them with little choice but to nap or stroll the cabins of the train where other military officers were waiting their inevitible destinations.

Two full days into their journey, Pyotr pointed out the window at a series of huts and fur tents.

"Buryats," he said, "we're getting close."

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

It pained Alexei to have left home so soon. And in such fashion. He loved his sister very much, but he had no other way of doing this. Instead of trying to explain he said that he found a job and that he needed to go away for a while.

All her questions went unanswered. At first Alexei tried to tell her that he has to keep it secret, but she was a woman. She had to know. Finally he just gave up and packed in silence, ignoring her completely.

When Yelena started crying it almost broke him, but after all those years in was, he was not so easily broken. He gritted his teeth and threatened that he would spend a night in the hotel if she would not shut up. That made her silent, but she sobbed all night.

Finally, just before dawn she fell asleep and Alexei rose. He could not sllep with the excitement and sorrow. Slowly he snuck out of the room and left the apartement without a sound.

It was still early so he wandered the streets until the time to leave arrived. Muscowy (people of Moscow) rose early, but for a time the strrets were blesedly empty. Police was doing a good job, and all the drunks were inside in the warm where there was no danger of freezing to death.

Finally almost half an hour before time came he was at the station waiting for Pyotr. They greeted and entered the train to warm themself. Alexei's fingers were growing numb, but he knew the frostburns were not the cause. But, had he spent more time outside it would have become an issue.

The Russians knew how to keep themselves warm. And the train was true to the task. It was steaming hot inside and after a few shots of vodka, Alexei started removing excesive clothing. First day he spent blesedly drunk in his underwear.

Next day he awoke with a blistering headache and it took him a few seconds to adjust his eyesight and focus. This time he would quit drinking. A rasping laugh left his throat and he yelped in pai of it. Everytime he awoke drunk he said that same thing. And everytime he drank again. He dressed and strolled the train to relax his muscles a bit.

That day was spent in idle conversation with various officers in the other cabins. Small talk mostly. He shared a few drinks, but was carefull not to get carried away. In time it bored him too and he returned to the cabin and watched the tndra speed by.

The tents were a welcome addition and Pyotr's voice awoke him from his dream-like state. He let out a sheepish smile and nodded.

"Good. I could not stand this idle traveling for much longer. NOw, tell me of your plans and what you need me to do? The time has come to flush these traitors out. Yes?"

--Kerenksy

"The best thing you can do, comrade," Pyotr answered, "is keep a close eye on me. It is my job to find the traitors and bring them to justice, it is your job to make sure I don't die in the process."

They had not discussed equipment or weapons yet, but now was the time. The policeman opened on of his larger travel bags to reveal several pistols, single action rifles with sights, fully automatic rifles and ammunition. It was as if he brought an entire arsenal.

"Hopefully we will not need the rifles," he said with absence.

The train slowed to a stop and Pyotr leaned forward to look out at the station. There was a military convoy outside and the only ones at this station wore the uniform of the red army. Armed guards patrolled the area and beyond the station the guarded walls of the encampment could be seen.

"We take one of those trucks. Bundle up."

Pyotr grabbed his things and lead Alexei outside where the harsh air of Siberia pounded them. Nearby guards dutifully checked their identification and orders and then handed over a truck which was loaded efficiently. The policeman said nothing until they were driving and outside the gates of the encampment.

"Very few people are permitted to take this road," he said.

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"I'll try to keep you alive, comrade. I am better at keeping myself alive, but I think I can do a good enough job of keeping you safe."

As the weapons were displayed, Alexei grabbed one of the semiautomatic pistols and checked the clip. Once satisfied with it, he put it inside his pocket. There was no need to be alarmed just yet, but it paid to be careful.

Once that was done, he picked p his travel bag and waited for the train to stop. Without a word the ex-soldier followed his police companion and waited patiently for the truck to arrive.

Once the wind struck him, Alexei shuddered slightly and raised his collar. He was used to winter conditions and this, although it troubled him, was not so bad.

As they reached the encampment, he smiled as Pyotr commented on the number of people passing through the gates.

"Well, if you are right, then there will be a few less people going through this gate soon. And, if I can help it won't be us."

--Kerenksy

It was as if the road never ended. Stretching into the wasteland, roaming over hillsides, cutting through evergreen forests, and sprawling along flatlands, the desolation of Siberia certainly lived up to its reputation. Pyotr didn't say very much along the way, perhaps lost in his own thoughts, or more practically, concentrating on the snow-blown and icy roads.

At the summit of a small hill with an interestingly out of place boulder, Pyotr stopped the jeep.

"Odd," he said at last, "the checkpoint guard is not here."

He scanned the hilltop for a moment before resuming.

"Keep your eyes open."

On the other side of the hill was a city built literally in the middle of nowhere. Fully functional city streets stretched before them with the simplistic communist architecture flooding city blocks. Redbrick buildings consumed the landscape beneath them complimented by drab-gray concrete supporting warehouse walls.

Even from their distance it appeared to be a ghost town. Absolutely no movement caught there eyes and although hundreds of parked military vehicles could be seen, none of them were operating.

He stopped the jeep once more and said, "Something is wrong. We should go in on foot."

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was completely relaxed as they drove. He was used to silence in the army and it did not trouble him now. He took a good measure of landscape and tried to remember some of the landmarks just in case he needed to return to the station by foot.

It was never bad to be careful and to plan ahead. And this time he had a reason to be. As Pyotr mentioned the lack of checkpoint guard, Alexei seemed to shrink a bit. It could have been strange, but he merely wished to present a smaller target just in case something was wrong.

His alertness rose and he scanned the horizon trying to look for a way into the city. A way that would expose him the least. His eyes searched for a way, but also for a place of a possible ambush. Something was not right here and for a moment Alexei regretted coming here. But, it was replaced by curiosity a moment later.

As the jeep stopped for a second time, Alexei jumped out even before Pyotr spoke. He waited for the policeman to finish and after taking another good look of the surroundings turned his head slightly that way.

"I thought there should be people here. You are right. Something is very wrong here. Only one question remains. Do we need those rifles now? Or do we go lightly armed? And if you don't mind, I'll lead the way."

--Kerenksy

Surprised at the young soldier's responsiveness, Pyotr struggled to keep up. He jumped out of the jeep as well and then went to one of the few bags in the back.

"We should take the rifles. If it is what I think it is, we will need them."

He hoisted two bags on his shoulders and then handed two to Pyotr. It would be most of the supplies they brought.

Scanning the city, Alexei found it was nestled in a valley between two 600 meter hills. It would be a day's journey to go around the hills, but the valley extended beyond the town into more tundra. The road they were on was the only road access in or out. A forest of evergreen in the surrounding area provided easy entry on foot without being spotted. They were hidden enough behind evergreen at the moment that the only way they could've been spotted was from telegraphic lenses.

Pyotr parked the jeep off the road behind a nearby boulder and then when ready said, "Very well, after you, then."

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei did not know what was happening and wished he was not here. He did not like risking his own life, but this time it would be foolish to bak off. He did not care for a reputation, but he had gone too far now.

So he just quietly chekced his rifle and slung it across his back. Two extra clips were strapped to his belt and finally a pair of bags. He checked once more to see if his gun was easily accesible and tuned to Pyotr.

"Follow me at about twenty paces. I don't know what to expect, but if something happens just stop and seek cover. Prepare your rifle and wait. I'll try to get back to you and then we have the element of surprise instead of the enemy. Simple."

With that he was gone without waiting for Pyotr to respond. He moved slowly among the trees his eyes scanning the countryside, but his head did not move. Altough he tried to evade most clearing he tried to look casual.

--Kerenksy

The red soldier buried himself in the evergreens, walking through deep January snow. The moving was slow and although only a foot deep in most places, in some parts the snow reached the middle of his thighs. Fresh, still, and knife-scalding air crackled against his bundled face as he went. Now deep in the forest, he'd lost sight of the town, but years of patrols kept him on track skirting the parameter.

Pyotr remained back and many times lost sight of him altogether. Also skilled in patrols such as these, he knew the drill and kept quiet and hidden.

They went for two hours before Alexei summated a nodular hill, residue of the climbing mountain said to his right. On the other side was a valley with a cavernous pit carved out. The frozen and mutilated bodies of over two hundred Soviet citizens lay inside. Many were soldiers, still dawning their uniforms, but others were scientists and researchers, not even wearing tundra gear, having only meager lab coats on when they were tossed inside. The source of the mutilation was almost entirely from fully automatic machine guns and it was not an execution, but a slaughter. There was no evidence of careful aim, as from a firing squad, but the half-hazard and gory display of machine gun strafing.

It hadn't snowed since the bodies were put there, but the blue skin of the victims grew ice crystals. It was impossible to tell how long they'd been there.

The soft tromping of Pyotr could be heard from behind.

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei almost gagged at the sight of all those bodies. Fighting back the rising bile in his throat he just crouched and took a few deep breaths. Finally he regained composure, but remained crouched still. he sight brought back other memories back to mind.

He saw the concentration camps on his way to Germany a few years ago. And this looked something like that. Whoever did this deserved and equal fate. Or even something worse. But, it could wait.

Alexei scanned a surrounding once more before he turned his head and waited for Pyotr to come within his sight. Once his eyes were on the policeman he motioned for him to get closer.

--Kerenksy

The policeman finally arrived, noting with apprehension that Alexei was crouching and still. Careful steps brought him closer and when trained eyes looked below a hushed gasp left his mouth and in the next moment, Pyotr was crouching as well.

"This was far more than a mere security breach. Who would do such a thing?"

He waited for a moment, processing some thoughts, but then continued.

"We are not equipped to handle this threat. However, if we leave, the perpetrator may escape unpunished."

The implication was left out in the cold. They would have to march in, unprepared, ill-equipped into a mortal and unknown danger. To do otherwise would discredit those in the pit. Pyotr new that with their sense of duty, he would live with regret.

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was about to suggest that one of them go back to get some help, but realized that the other one would be doomed. They were both doomed probably, but they had better chance together.

Although he felt almost dizzy with terror, he knew that to leave now would be to doom Pyotr to death. While he could learn to live with that, Alexei did not want to. So, he just nodded and smiled weakly.

"Same procedure as before. I go first, you follow. I'll try to find some tracks that will tell us where those who did this horror left."

As he talked, Alexei's eyes fell upon a woman's face. She lay in the pit and only a piece of her face was visible. But, her eyes showed true horror. Her last thought was of fear.

The soldier felt his fear slowly being replaced with anger. These people had families. And many were not armed. And yet they were killed. Alexei's cheeks grew red as his anger rose and he stood up.

"When we find those that did this, we make them pay. An eye for an eye. Only monsters could have done this. I don't care for the reasons. Once we do what we came here for, I say we kill them all. If we do it. We will probably be dead by the end of the day, but I don't care. At least a few of them will follow me to the icy grave. Let us go now. Keep your distance and make as little noise as possible."

With that Alexei shouldered his rifle once more and moved towards the pit. Now, he did not care for the deception. He moved crouched and from tree to tree. He knew that if he was seen, he would probably die. He was not very good at following tracks, but still he approached the pit trying to find a place where the massacre took place and to determine where the killers went.

--Kerenksy

It was clear that those who committed the slaughtering were not expecting company. No attempt was made at all to cover their tracks. It was easily a platoon of soldiers, perhaps 20, that marched along side a truck to the pit. The tracks went straight to a service road to the east of town, not 2 clicks from their present location.

As he followed the tracks, he happened upon the service road, still under cover behind a close thicket of evergreen. The town was just as ghostly up close as it was from afar. A wild wind whistled through the street leading to the service road as it wound up to a cushioned plateau beneath the mountainside.

His new vantage added an even more abysmal truth. Still old snow presented the bright residue of human blood. Dozens of spots on the street fell victim to this vision. Strategically broken windows above the bloody imprints also stood out. This town was invaded and the occupants killed on the street where they stood. They had no chance to prepare.

The road he peered down had a group of six simple residential homes on either side, before branching off into a park bordering other small neighborhoods. The residential side of the town bled into a more industrial sector, home to several warehouses and production plants. Just beyond there was the center of town and a traditional town square with shops, banks, and cafes. North was obscured by higher buildings, perhaps blue-collar residences. In the south were standard concrete government buildings, likely the home for a great deal of research.

Not a soul could be seen in any direction.

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei surveyed his surroundings as he moved along the tracks. Slowly his rage left him and his mind cleared. And, although he felt relaxed and calm now, the images of dead people were still in his mind. He never understood how people could walk to slaughter like that. He would have fought. Trued to escape. But, they just died.

As he came upon the road he paused for a moment to make sure he would not be seen. Waiting to see if Pyotr was still behind he motioned to the policeman that he would follow the road and was on the move once again.

And then he saw the town. A cold feeling sank into his belly as he searched for a living soul. But, none were in sight. He cursed silently once and moved to the edge of the forest and waited for Pyotr there. And as he waited he saw the blood trails. What puzzled him was who could have done that? He knew vaguely what the research carried there was, but still the attacker must have been pretty bold to have done so. And in the middle of Soviet Union. He banished those thoughts for now and turned to see if Pyotr was coming.

Motioning for the policeman to wait he moved towards him and crouched there. He puffed into his gloved hands once, more out of the habit that any real need and smiled weakly.

"The city is here all right. But, there is no one living in sight. Though that means nothing. They might be hiding or a spotter is in one of the houses. It appears that they did at least a part of the killing in the city itself.

There are blood spots on the street in a few places. And some windows are broken. But, that is not important. Do you have any idea who could have done this? Foreigners? Someone from within? It looks like it was very well organized and if did not show up they could have escaped.

They even may be gone already. But, those bodies looked fresh so I doubt it. The plan probably was to kill everyone, get what they came for and escape. If we did not show up it could have been days before anyone discovered that something was wrong.

As I see it there are two options. We go in right away and risk being spotted. Or we wait until dark and go then. But, by then the perpetrators could be gone. So what do you say? I for one am for going in right now."

--Kerenksy

When Pyotr arrived he listened to Alexei's report quietly. Studying the scene before him, he offered a sigh.

"It's a perfect crime," he said at last, "Even when Stalin finds the massacre, he can't report it to the people nor can he approach the Allies. It's a secret city and the act of doing so would reveal his intention to create nuclear weapons. The politburo will have to quietly take it.

"It is clear that whoever did this did not want nuclear weapons developed. This must be an American operation. They are desperate and arrogant bastards.

"I agree comrade, let's go in now and seize them before they get away. Be careful. If these are Americans, they are crafty and dangerous. We don't want any surprises."

He paused, passing by some thoughts.

"They are probably in the research facilities. . . if I am right about their purpose. They would want to destroy any research that was done."

--Laveaux 09:36, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Without a word Alexei just nodded and smiled. He rechecked the rifle he carried and took three more clips out of the bag. Once more he remembered why he still wore his old army jacket as he inserted the extra clips into the pockets in the small of his back.

Once satisfied that he was as equipped as the circumstances permitted the ex-soldier rose and let out a sigh.

"I suggest we stay closer to one another now. The ground is open and we will be seen if there is anyone watching this part of the city. Yet, we may slip un-noticed if we stay together. This way we give an observer only one chance to spot something moving across the open ground and not two. So, whenever you are ready..."

Alexei assumed that the research facility was in the center of industrial part of the city and did not bother asking for the exact location. When and if they managed to get through the city outskirts that question would have some importance.

He waited for Pyotr to get ready and once the policeman was ready started towards the edge of a forest. Meanwhile he scanned the open filed between the forest and the first houses in search of any cover that he could use to catch his breath and hide from sight for a while.

Once he they reached the forest edge he turned and smiled at Pyotr.

"Well, good luck then. For motherland and all that. Stay close and with a lot of luck we won't be seen. Or hope that Americans are too confident and they did not leave a guard to watch over perimeter."

--Kerensky

The skeletal silence of the city embraced them as they passed through. With militant skill, the two danced from one nook to the next, zig-zagging across the snow-covered neighborhood landscape like predators weaving between stalks of concrete grass. After weaving through the town for ten minutes, they at last reached the town square, not three blocks from what appeared to be the research facilities, two large brown-drab buildings at the foot of a waterfall of factories and assembly plants.

They rested in an alleyway between two storage facilities reaching four stories each. A courtyard, easily fifty meters across rested in the center of a crossroads of five streets. The only decoration afforded was a small eight-foot statue of Lenin.

Across the courtyard were more buildings of the same stature from which they hid. Smaller shops and cafes spotted the courtyard to the north and south, but it was clear that a 50-meter uncovered sprint would surely be spotted from any number of sniper locations.

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei crouched near the corner and peeked around. Quickly he pulled back and waited a second or two before he dared look again. Satisfied that no one was around the corner he dared a long look across the square.

And he did not like what he saw. Too much empty space and too many places to be shot from. He smiled at the statue and after another brief look pulled himself back.

"The situation is not good. I see the research buildings. And I see the square in front. And there is no way we could cross the square without being seen. Unless we find another route that is. We could wait until night falls, or we could sneak around the complex and try to circle it and enter from another direction. Do you know anything about the city layout or the complex itself? Or were your plans to have a guide? We can try storming the entrance, but I think we will be shot before we reach halfway there. Any other ideas or should I start looking for a way around it?"

He paused for a moment and the smiled.

"And there is no way we are going in through the sewers. This is a research complex and who knows what stuff they have down there. I have seen what water from such places can do to people in Germany and I don't plan on testing it here."

--Kerensky

Pyotr's already stone face froze even more as he heard the report. Crouching in the snow he absently gnawed on his gloved knuckle thinking about their options. He didn't answer and from his silence it was apparent he did not know the layout of the city. In fact, there was nothing about this that was expected.

His face turned the color of the snow he crouched on as a thought crossed his mind.

"This whole thing is a trap," looking up with earnest realization in his eyes he said, "Think about it. Two men alone were sent to secure one of the Motherland's prized secrets? The same two men who witnessed an unusual arrest but a night prior? Inexperienced in the art of intelligence, one a war veteran and the other a Moscow police officer. How could I not have seen this?"

He stood, color returning to his face, but now blushing anger.

"I said it before. Anyone that dies here will be kept secret, even by the politburo, less their secret get out. We weren't sent here to guard a secret . . . we were sent here because we knew a secret. If we go to where we believe our mission should take us, we will be ambushed."

And the final conclusion, perhaps a stretch, fell out of his mouth like marbles from a sack, "Those men were not KGB, they are traitors."

"I heard nothing and that may unlock this puzzle. I think we should take cover and reconsider our entire approach. What did you learn of the man that we arrested that night?"

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Cursing under his breath Alexei chanced another quick look around the corner and then crouched with his back against the wall. He was silent for a moment as he gathered his thoughts and tried to remember what the American told him in the warehouse. Finally he lifted his gaze and looked at Pyotr.

"Well, considering that he was in pain, he did not say much. A few short sentences. He begged, and said he was an American businessman. Something about working for an oil company. But, at the moment I was suspicious. He did carry a gun and he tried to shoot me. I don't see why that is such a big secret."

Pausing for a few more seconds Alexei slowly shook his head and nodded a few times after that.

"Maybe we are looking at this a wrong way. What if these people are indeed KGB? And what if the research was a success? And they are removing any witnesses? We don't know how long ago those people died. Maybe the 'American' was a researcher? And maybe he escaped? And they are worried he might have revealed something important?"

Another short curse.

"And maybe I am just being paranoid. Forget that story. It is too stretched out. Let us try to consider your version. The man we arrested knew something. Something they think important. And they believe we know that too. Now that you mention it, it does seem strange that Yaroslav sent me here. The same man who was out trying to catch the 'American' that same night. But, still the question remains what are we to do? If you are right we can not press forward. And I wonder if it is safe to go back to Moscow. If only I could see that 'American' once more and press him for some answers."

--Kerensky

Nodding he said, "It is easy to be paranoid, given the circumstances. The only thing we can do is find out what is really happening."

"The only Americans involved so far belong to an oil company. I would wager that the government might not be involved. It would be a sinister plot if KGB was working with capitalists, but there is a lot of oil in this part of the world and if a price is high enough . . ."

He shuddered to think of comrades falling into capitalistic temptation. Changing the subject immediately he said, "It is no use speculating. We need to find out for ourselves before we decide what to do."

"If either of us are remotely right, going to the research facility would be suicide. They are waiting for us there. This is where my skills end. What can we do that they won't expect and where do we go to find out what has happened here?"

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"What troubles me most is all those dead people. Who would resort to that just to get the two of us. That American we captured and this whole mess are connected."

He just crouched there for almost a minute puffing into his hands. Just as the silence was getting tiresome he rose and glanced once more.

"As I see it there are only a few things we could do. Turn back and try to get back to Moscow and then just wait until they finally get us. Try to enter a research facility and die. Or, we can lure them into a trap. Make them come to us."

A wicked smile spread across Alexei's face as he spoke of this.

"we both agree that they are waiting for us in there. And it would be safe to assume that they know we are here. Now look over there." - Alexei said pointing around the corner to the square. - "It is nice and open ground. If we try to approach they could shoot us from a number of locations. But, also we could shoot them from a number of locations if they try to cross it. We are both armed. I say we try to find some good vantage points and wait. Eventually they will get worried where we are and send someone to get us. If they send a small group we can follow them and maybe even capture someone who can tell us what is going on. Under torture if need be. If they come out in force, we can give them a share of their own medicine. These automatic rifles are quite deadly if they are in the open. After we take a bunch of them out, we can then go and take a look at the research facility. They might even retreat and leave us here to investigate. Any other suggestions or do I start searching for good spots?"

--Kerensky

A calculated face split into a cold smile. Nodding with a touch of admiration, Pyotr said, "That is a good plan, comrade. We should split up, one on either side of the square, taking positions in taller structures.

"When the enemy comes out we fire and immediately change location before firing again until they are all down.

"We shall take no prisoners. They showed no mercy for those victims so we will return the favor."

Pyotr began sifting through the bag to pick the right weapons.

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei took a long look of the square trying to find a suitable position to perch himself upon. Once he found the perfect spot he turned back to Pyotr.

"Well, comrade, I'll take the other side of the square. Be careful and cautious. They may be at the same spots we plan to take. Watch yourself. If you don't mind, wait till I fire the first shot. I'll try to wound the leader so he can not get away. We kill everybody else. The leader dies after he tells us what really happened."

Another brief glance around the corner and Alexei started gathering his bags.

"If we can not take one alive no grief. But, it would be nice to gather some info. Take care and good luck. I am off."

With that Alexei turned back the way they came and tried to orient himself. He planned to circle the square and come up to in from one of the side streets on the opposite side. Once there he would easily find the building he needed.

--Kerensky

The soldier and the policeman went their separate ways, Pyotr to the east and Alexei to the west. There was a four-story structure that appeared ideal, offering a bird-eye vantage point on the square. It was unmarked and it wasn't until Alexei arrived did he discern the snow-covered beige-brick building was an apartment complex.

The gates unlocked and the grounds as abandoned as the rest of the town, it was easy getting inside. The make-do lobby was really a space to hold a staircase and lift.

The heat was still running and offered a pleasent climate for his climb. At the top floor was a hallway stretching in both directions and ten apartments on either side. He would have to break into one of the rooms to get to the spot he needed.

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was just about to break the door open, when he remembered to be caustious first. Slowly he passed all the door and stopped and listened for at least half a minute at each. He even put his cheek down on the ground besides the door trying to see if the air that flowed beneath the door was colder than the one in the hall.

Finally, satisfied that there was nobody in any of the rooms, he approached the one closest to the Research center and tried the door handle.

--Kerensky

Cautious habits yeilded little rewards. The lack of sound and stale air from behind apartment doors suggested these rooms were as dead as the rest of the town. If there were people inside, they were hiding from the unseen threat. None of the soldier's enemies were anywhere near.

The door he tried was unlocked, as would be expected from a simple apartment building. Silence met him on the other side of the door. It was a single room with an adjoining washroom. A small cot rested in the far corner, a desk beneath the window overlooking the square and research facility beyond it, and a weathered sofa on the other wall. The bathroom door was slightly ajar revealing the profile of a shower stall and toilet.

His vantage point from the window was perfect. The glass double doors leading into the facility's lobby was in plain view. If anyone left, he would be the first to see them.

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was happy that nobody was in the building. As the old saying went 'Better safe than sorry'. And he lived by that saying. ANd it saved his sorry hide many times during the war.

He took a long look of the square and then smiled with satisfaction. He tipped the table so that the board was towards the window as it would protect him somewhat and also give him a spot to rest his gun and steady his aim.

Unvoluntarily he winced at the noise, but did not pay much attention to that now. Going to the bed he took his bags of and sorted the weapons across the bed. The automatic rifle was already unpacked, and he left her near the table. Now he pulled that sniper rifle out and checked if it was okay from all the tumbling on their way here.

Satisfied with that, he pulled extra clips for his automatic rifle and loaded the sniper. He was a fair shot with the rifle, and the scope would give him an advantage in the first few shots. But, once the chaos started and the bllet were flying both ways, he would need the other rifle.

As an afterthough he pulled a single pistol, checked if it was loaded and put it in his coat pocket. All the while he glanced at the research facility from time to time, making sure he would not miss the yet unsees enemy.

All that remained was to open the window slightly and wait. He did just that, and he knew that the cold would keep him from dozing off. The danger was near and he could not affort to make himself comfortable. So he just pulled the chair closer and sat behind the upturned desk waiting. The cold on his face kept him awake although the warmth had made his eyelids heavy just moments before. The sniper rifle was across his lap and he already judged the distances on the square and carefully adjusted the scope so it would be accurate when the enemy reached the center of the square. Just in case he noted the approximate distances of a few buildings. The enemy might not walk straight across the square and he would be ready for anything.

As he waited he scanned the other side of the street looking for any sign of Pyotr.

--Kerensky

Set up and prepared for his mission, Alexei's perch behind the overturned table was ideal for a surprise attack. It just simply hadn't prepared him for another attack altogether.

An unshaved, wild-haired, starved man who's once-trim suit was stained and unkempt, charged from the bathroom. A cry of rage vomited from his parched mouth and in surprising speed, he tackled Alexei from his chair and onto the floorboards.

Now pinning the soldier on his back with his own rifle, the wild man howled, "I'LL KILL YOU TRAITOR!"

--Laveaux 09:43, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was watching the entrance to the Research Complex so intently that the man caught him completely by surprise. As he heard the sound from the bathroom, the ex-soldier only half turned and froze when the man appeared. It was merely a fraction of the second before he reacted.

But, that fraction was all it took for the man to crash into him and the next thing he knew he was lying flat on the ground, pinned by his own rifle.

Possible solutions raced through the young man's mind as he struggled with his attacker. He could kill the man easily, but that thought was abandoned as soon as it came. He needed the man alive as it was obvious he knew something about what happened. And they needed the information if at all possible.

So, he decided to capture the man if he could. But, time was running short, and his survival instincts took over soon enough. Alexei rose his shoulder as much as he could, leaning slightly to the left. At the same time he pushed the rifle away with all his strength.

He was hoping to make it slide aside and allow him to break free or at least take the man's hand close enough for a vicious bite. He did not care about the man's hygiene. This was life or death situation. And he needed the man alive if possible.

He knew that if he bit hard enough the man would let go and that would be when he would strike. A quick punch and once he was free a pistol in his hand would give him time enough to talk some sense into the man.

--Kerensky

The civilian was hardly a match for the soldier. Trained reflexes, coupled with rage, caused Alexei�s motions and intentions to be unanticipated. Dropping his shoulder back, the screaming man lost enough balance to double his wrists forward. In the next instant, the soldier sunk his teeth into the man�s sweaty flesh between his thumb and index finger. Teeth sank through all too easily and it was almost certain he bit all the way through, possibly unable to control his strength from rushing adrenaline.

Rage turned into confused pain and fear. Reeling backward, the civilian leapt onto his feet only to be met with a stern fist. Twirling toward unconsciousness he doubled over and then scurried backward like a wounded insect. Weeping and gripping his bleeding hand he cried, �Please! Please! Just shoot me! Don�t take me in. Just kill me, have mercy!�

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Breathing rapidly Alexei, stood for a moment, holding the civilian at gun point. He forced his breath in deep and breathed slowly feeling the rage leaving him.

"Come down, comrade. I am not here to take you in. I'm on your side. I came to investigate what happened. KGB sent me from Moscow. I won't shoot you if you promise to remain calm. Here I am putting the gun away. But, pay attention. I will kill you if you try something stupid like that again."

Slowly Alexei put his gun away, all the while watching the man intently. As he slid his hand out, he reached his hand behind his back as if to scratch himself and pulled the knife out. Carefully he slid it into his sleeve. This time he won't be caught unawares.

Feeling somewhat more relaxed with a weapon at close reach he flicked his eyes towards the chair and moved there slowly. He kept his eyes on the man ready to spring into action at the first sign of trouble. He picked the chair up and sat, chancing a glance at the window and the facility beyond. As he walked he tried to pry some information from the man.

"Now, that we are calm, maybe you could tell me what happened here? And where did you think I would take you? Are there any survivors? I saw the pit in the woods with the bodies, but did not investigate. It smelled of a trap this facility and I decided to wait for them to come out and lay a trap of my own."

An encouraging smile appeared on Alexei face as he talked of the trap. He was not very good around people, but he hoped the man would relax a bit.

--Kerensky

Fear dissolved into confusion as the man sputtered for a moment at Alexei�s behavior. Recoiling and flinching he watched with stunned silence until Alexei pocketed his gun. Glancing around, perhaps looking for the trick he finally settled on the soldier, calm but skeptical.

�They were Russians. Traitors. They made a deal with the capitalists for oil money. I saw them side-by-side Soviet and American slaughter the people here. How do I know I can trust you?�

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei smiled and shook his head slightly.

"Who said you can and should trust me? And why would you?"

His tone made the question obviously rhetorical and his quick response confirmed that.

"Well, let me say it this way. You said they slaughtered all those people. Did they hesitate then? I could have shot you long ago. What could I gain by leaving you alive? If I were on their side at least. Look here. I work for the KGB. But, I am new. I saw something concerning the oil you mention. And they sent me here. Whether they sent me here because they wanted me to investigate or die is the thing that troubles me. But, if you take a quick look through this window here, you'll see that it overlooks the entrance to the research complex. And they must be there. Why would I keep a lookout of that armed to the teeth like I am?"

A bitter smile and another shake of his head. A few socond pause. And finally a shrug.

"I'll tell you what. Although every sane piece of my mind screams for me to kill you just to be safe I won't do that. I know I might regret that, but I just don't care. I am too mad and angry with those pigs who killed all those people. So this is what I will do. I'll give you a rifle. Is that a sign enough that you should trust me? I only need to know a few more things before we take our position again. How many of them are there? Aproximately. And do you know how to use a rifle?"

Cold sweat started to pour down the bak of Alexei's neck. He was quite nervous and under the different circumstances he would have killed the man silently with his knife. But, the things he saw and the man's look made him pause. But, that did not mean he was not afraid. Affraid that he was making a mistake. One that could cost him his life. But, he forced himself to remain calm and waited for the man's response.

--Kerensky

The man's blank stare faded into a furrowed distance. Running fingers through wild salt and pepper hair, he clasped his fingers on the back of his neck and stared at the floor. Forcing back what were apparently tears, he cleared his throat and stood, straightening his posture and extending his hand.

"I am Dr. Lyubov and I sincerely apologize. I haven't eaten in four days . . . all things that move have become my enemy. Please accept this gesture."

Gathering his wits together he then added, "I am a mathematician, your rifle is about as alien to me as the Pythagorean Theorem is to you. I will help in whatever way you need me, you will just have to tell me how.

"There were two dozen that I can remember. They came in on jeeps and spared no time before opening fire on the residents. The security was ill prepared and after a very short firefight, they were taken out.

"I know of at least twenty survivors, hiding in various locations. We have somewhat of a communication system going between us. It is very dangerous, but we haven't been caught yet."

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

"Well, comrade doctro, I can't help you with the food problem. We planned on going into civilization and thus we did not bring any food with us. A mistake it seems, but it is too late now."

Alexei seemed to remember something as his eyes fell upon doctor extended hand. He took a few steps forward and shook hand.

"Pardon my manner. My name is Alexei Sudarev, former corporal in the Red Army and now an employee of the KGB. Sorry about the bite and the punch, but you were trying to kill me. I had to restrain you."

A smile crept acroos the soldiers face. There was hope yet. Twenty survivors and not more than two dozen adversaries. If their initial plan worked the odds would be much better and they might even storm the research complex. He quickly recovered from that line of thought and focused upon the doctor again.

"Look here doctor. My plan was like this. I think the traitors know I am coming. And they have set a trap at the research complex. So I planned on waiting until they come looking. Then I take out as many as I can. Try to even the odds if you'd like."

Alexei stopped for a moment and pondered whether to reveal Pyotr's presence to the doctor. Shrugging he decided that it would be better to show fauth in the man and tell him everything.

"I did not come alone. I said nothing because I did not know whether I should trust you or not. In one of those buildings across the square is my coleague Pyotr. He will start shooting after I shoot the leader. But, now I am worried about him. What if he ran into another man like yourself? Can you tell me if there is anyone else close by?"

--Kerensky

Returning his handshake, Lyubov smiled a greeting and then recoiled slightly addressing the pain in his hand.

"If he is anywhere near as skilled as you are, I wouldn't worry. From my understanding there are no military men left. Just civilians, like myself.

"I will do my best to help you, even if my own skills fall short."

Waiting with him for at least a couple hours, the Doctor remained quiet as the soldier kept watch over the city. Eventually, as expected, a platoon of soldiers came filing out of the research facility. In full mobilization, the point crept forward and waved on five teams of two. They took position on one corner of the wall before ten more settled along the other corner. They wore white and gray fatigues and faces were covered with masks. Fully automatic weapons undernearth their arms and packs of gear on their backs, it was as if they were planning on leaving the city.

Once the scout was sure it was secure, he started the marching line across the square. Only then did the communications officer and the platoon leader step from the facility. As the march proceeded, they very cautiously went forward and five men stayed behind Alexei's target.

They were not in formation to protect against snipers.

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

As the men left the facility, Alexei turned to the doctor and smiled wickedly.

"Keep the ammo coming, I'll need it. Watch if you will, but keep the ammo coming at all costs and don't get in the way."

Waiting patiently before the lead secured the area, Alexei took the time to adjust his sights. Carefully he judged the distance to the facility and then decided to take his shot when the main force came about one third of the way across.

Another smile crept across Alexei's face when the communications officer and the leader stepped out. He checked his rifle once more and made sure the bullet was in the chamber.

"Now, my good doctor, you'll get your revenge. Stand ready."

Alexei steadied his breath and casually pointed the rifle at the leader. Only when he had him approximately in sights did he sight down the telescopic sight. For a moment he pondered whether he should keep him alive and then the picture of the pit where all the dead were flashed to his mind. Gritting his teeth the ex-soldier clamed himself one more and took aim carefully.

Slowly he tried adjusting his breathing to the man's footsteps and he steadied his hand. The crosshairs pointed a bit ahead of the man, but the target was his heart. Or the vital organ that pumped blood, because this was a heartless man. His finger squeezed lightly and kept in position just a fraction of an inch away from triggering the round.

Alexei's breath came out and the man's foot touched the ground. Gently the finger pulled back a little more and the bullet took off. Not waiting to see if he hit, Alexei ejected the bullet from the chamber and quickly replaced it with a new round. A quick search of the communications officer and this time a rather hasty shot at his chest. Even as the sound of the shot resounded he placed the rifle next to him and grabbed the automatic.

This time the aim was not so precise, but the number of round made up for it. A few short burst at the group that followed the leader and then he took his fire on the scout at the head of the line. The bullets came out in the groups of two or three and as soon as the magazine was spent he replaced it with a new one. Taking his fire down the line he knew he could not get them all, but he could at least try to force them to turn back the way they came. The first few round were meant to confuse them. All the while he kept his eyes on the ten man on each corner for they could easily endanger his or Pyotr's position.

And all that time, not a single sound came from Alexei. This was not the war. There would be no war cries. It was justice and he was its eyes.

--Kerensky

The first blast crackled through the winter air. There was no way he could miss. The entry was precise and immediately penetrated the man's heart. Unlike a shortrange blast this one bit him, not disimilar to the teeth of a small animal. Confused at first, he clutched his chest, keeling over. Looking for a fleeting moment at his bloodstained hands, he collapsed. In the next breath he would be dead.

The next shot drilled through the communication officer's upper torso, perhaps striking a lung. This one was far more dramatic then the last. The angle was such that the officer flew backward into the wall, before sliding to the ground. He was alive, but mortally wounded, lying uselessly in the snow, losing his life blood as a red river.

It took this long for the rest to mobilize. For one, it was too late. He got struck in his shoulder and back. Another took a painful blast into his stomach. Pyotr's rounds were firing almost as quickly. On the far wall, the back of a soldier's head exploded, followed by another skilled shot in the chest.

The leadership was down and five soldiers were dead or incapacitated. As Alexei moved to fire at the scout, he'd already taken cover behind a parked truck, although still likely in sight of Pyotr. The remaining five managed to scurry back inside the building to remobilize.

The doctor stood in shock after readily handing ammo.

"I can't believe you took so many down so quickly."

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Once the killing was over Alexei just stood there gazing down his weapon without a single word. The gun barrel released steam in the crisp winter air as it slowly cooled. The hiss as the metal shrunk to its original size was barely audible, but Alexei heard it clearly, his cheek still next to the rifle's side.

His gaze blurred and it was doctor's voice that brought him back. For a moment he was lost and then he remembered where they were. Keeping his gun pointed in the direction of the truck where the scout took his cover he waited for Pyotr to kill the man.

As he waited his mind raced through what the future held. Six are down. The leader and the communications officer. Two more shot by me and two by Pyotr. Scout is dead too.

Still five more soldiers remained. But, now they were scared and leaderless. A smile crept across Alexei's face as he thought of that. But, as quickly as it came it was gone. There is no pleasure in killing. It was duty. No smiles.

He glanced towards the doctor and nodded.

"It was an ambush, comrade. They had no chance. The scout hiding behind the truck is dead, although he knows it not. Either he freezes to death or Pyotr or I shoot him. The other five that managed to escape trouble me. But, they are the ones afraid now. You said it nicely. Many of them died quickly. So they don't know how many of us were there."

Finally a plan began to form in his head. He would wait a minute or two to see if the soldiers would try anything. If nothing happened, he would hand a gun to doctor and instruct him to just shoot if they showed up, while he goes to discuss the entrance to the compound with Pyotr. He even pondered the possibility of negotiating with the man and taking them prisoner.

--Kerensky

The moments after the firefight were weighed with anticipation. Quiet morning air pounded into the room. One more crack split through the sky and the limp hand of the scout fell out from behind his hiding place. Pyotr�s aim was true and by all accounts the police officer was alive and well. The enemy hadn�t had a chance to fire a single shot.

Alexei�s hesitation brought no new activity and he began his move. The doctor took the soldier�s instructions and dutifully, although nervously, took his place at the window, bundling a light jacket as he was exposed to the cold.

Down the stairs and out into the apartment�s plaza, Alexei still saw no evidence of the others coming from their hiding place. Around the bend of the courtyard, he could already spot Pyotr, rifle in hand, taking a safe position behind the corner of a redbrick building.

The two locked eyes, knowing they were out a new plan would be born.

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

A quick glance around the corner and Alexei was sprinting across the street towards Pyotr. He half expected to hear a gunshot and to feel the impact of the bullet. But, all was well and he collapsed near the policeman and panted heavily.

"Good work, comrade. Now we know how many there were, and how many there are. I have met a survivor and there are more. Doctor Lyubov. He said there were some forty or so survivors. Apparently these soldiers came and some of the guards joined them."

A quick glance around the corner and Alexei once more looked at Pyotr. A grim smile was upon his lips.

"What do we do now, comrade? We can try to storm the compound or we can try to arrest them. Call out a negotiation. Or we wait till they get bored and try to escape once more. Or maybe we can call in the reinforcements?"

--Kerensky

Pyotr took no time consider their options. A quirky grin appeared on the policeman's face and he said, "I say we round up the survivors and raid the damned place. Take only prisoners so we can get to the bottom of this scandal. I will not have our Motherland destroyed by traitors, even if these traitors are in the KGB."

"Did your man say where the others were?"

He looked around with a trained eye, not getting to comfortable and keeping position over their sieged building.

"If they are too difficult to gather, perhaps we should raid by ourselves. Swiftly, efficiently, and accurately."

--Laveaux 09:49, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei pondered what Pyotr said and then just nodded. He rose and glanced around the corner once more.

"I'll go see, good doctor once more. He is not a fighter, but maybe some of the others are. He said that they had a way of comunicating to each other. If that fails I say we storm the place ourselves. See if you can get some hand grenades?"

With that he was off. He ran back towards the building he shot from and climbed the stairs without slowing down. Once he reached the floor where the doctor was he slowed downa nd paused to get his breath back.

Then he slowly creeped towards the door and stopped just beyond the sight. He knew that doctor was scared and did not want to startle him and maybe get shot by accident.

"Comrade Lyubov. It is me Alexei. Can I come in?"

--Kerensky

A timid voice sounded from inside, �Yes, come in.�

Upon entering an unexpected scene unfolded. The doctor was on his knees with his hands behind his neck. Behind him was a Soviet soldier in standard tundra fatigues holding Luybov at gunpoint. He was older, perhaps an officer. Battleworn face held cold and unfearing eyes.

The moment Alexei stepped into the room, the pistol turned on him. His first shot missed, grazing the doorframe directly next to him.

His finger remained trained and in his next shot he would not miss

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

The first thing to come to Alexei's mind was fear. I am not ready to die. Not yet. Not now. I just returned. Next came the anger. ''Bastard. You think I am that easy to kill? Well, think again.''

It was no more then a blink of an eye. The finger could move only so fast. And the door was so close. His backpack was upon Alexei's shoulders and if the bullet hit that it could be stopped. The doctor was not important now.

Without waiting Alexei turned and jumped through the door. He did not think. He merely acted. The leap would take him away, but he would still be in harms way. So as his torso passed the door frame he gripped it with both hands. The momentum would swing him to the side and out of the open.

Once he was safe, he would have time to see if something could be done about the doctor. If he was safe.

--Kerensky

Another blast echoed from behind as Alexei pivoted around the corner. A shard of plaster exploded from the wall directly across the hallway from the door. It was right where the soldier�s head was not a half second prior. The gunfire only very briefly stopped as the traitor inside mobilized.

They were trained the same way, by the same military. It was clear what the next move would be. The officer was likely backed up against the wall and will step aside only far enough to take aim and fire. He had seconds, but it was enough to draw a weapon and mobilize himself.

No sound came from the Doctor inside.

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

The gun came of Alexei's shoulder as soon as he regained his senses. Which was mere fraction of a second after he hit the floor. He was already on his feet and rolled further down the hall and crouched close to the wall.

His gun was raised and pointed in the direction of the door the officer was in. The man would have to take a full step outside into the open. And then he would be mowed down by the automatic rifle.

Alexei had already thought about spraying a burst through the wall, but decided not to. Apart from possibly hitting the doctor, there was a chance that he would miss the enemy completely. He did not really think about the doctor now. Whether Lyubov lived or died did not matter. Alexei was the important one now.

The ex-soldier stood silently and waited. He dared not speak and risk revealing his position to the traitor inside. His hand was poised on the trigger and the gun was pointed slightly downward. He expected the man to come out low, but was prepared to whip the barrel up if he was proven wrong.

--Kerensky

As expected, the enemy stepped out to take a shot, but Alexei was not yet in position. Pistol blasts echoed in the hallway. Fortunately, the soldier was quicker than the enemy expected and his shots were futile, he took aim just as Alexei let his rifle loose.

The traitor fell back into the room and the sound of his gun reloading spat into the hall.

"You are fighting a soldier for the Red Army, traitor!" The man barked, "Surrender yourself and save your honor!"

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei just stood in the hall and waited for the man to appear once more. And then his words came. A slight shake of his head was all Alexei did in an answer at first. Still he tries to trick me. Who does he think I am? An idiot?

"Traitor? Me? My loyalty is good enough for KGB and you call me a traitor? I say, drop your weapon and come out with your hands up, and I may spare your life."

As soon as he was finished talking Alexei shifted his position slightly to the right to deny the man an opportunity to hit him by shooting blindly at the spot where Alexei was a moment ago.

All the time the plan began to formulate in his mind. If he does not come out in the next few seconds, I'll just have to go in and take care of it myself. He must be right next to the door. If I rush with my knife and get him off guard it would work out nicely.

--Kerensky

Alexei was underestimated. The enemy threw himself from inside the room and unleashed at the spot he'd just left. It was reckless and it cost him everything. The soldier could not miss. Letting loose his rifle, four rounds pounded the enemy, straffing up his torso. He fell backward unloading as he did so and collapsed, gasping onto the floor.

Heavy breathing pushed out from his panicked mouth, but the wounds were fatal.

Just before Alexei could reassess the situation, gunfire sounded from outside. Several rounds cascaded through the square below. A battle had started.

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Once more Alexei felt nothing as the man died. No remorse. No regret. Nothing. In the war, he killed men, but a few times he felt sadness after the battle. He thought about their families. About their friends. About the reasons they joined the army. Not this time.

But, his caution did not left him. Before he jumped over the dying man he kicked the pistol away from his hands then the gun shots came form the outside. This was a trap. Let us see if they planned for this.

With that he ran into the room and went straight to the window. He cast only a cursory glance towards the doctor to see if he was okay. Either way, the man was not important. Pyotr was.

The plan was simple. If any of the men shooting at Pyotr were visible from the window they would die. After that or if there were no targets, he would run to join his colleague. But, this time he would try to circle the building the other was and come at them from the back.

--Kerensky

The doctor, although scared, was certainly alive. He cowered with flenching fear, trembling at the explosive sights around him. Covering his eyes and crawling into the corner, he was out of Alexei's way.

The soldier took position at the window, once again. The enemy was in formation. A platoon of fifteen, hugging the outskirts of the square and in solid cover from Pyotr. He could be seen across the square, behind a stone wall, peeking up and taking shots. Pyotr was the prey, though, and his shots were futile.

Alexei's rifle knocked down two men that were in his line of sight. One took a blast to his back and the other, his abdomen. The rest were not reachable, however gunfire suddenly exploded into his room after he fired. There were still others he could not see.

Taking cover from the onslaught, Alexei managed to get out of the building. His plan was a good one. By coming around the opposite side of the building, his targets were in front of him. There were five that had position behind the corners of two adjacent buildings. A single straffe took them out. Dead or dying, Alexei could safely approach them and advance on the battle ahead.

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

This was something Alexei could do. Something he knew how to do. He did not know that there were so many of the soldiers. He should have known better. To kill an entire town they would need much more people. But, it was too late now. Pyotr was in danger.

The two men he saw from the window were easy prey. But, he was away from the window long before the first bullets came. He knew he had to change position. There was just a moment glance he gave the doctor before he was off.

Luckily the snow was covering the ground outside so there were no slippery spots where he could fall. He did not rush. There was no need to die. If he died Pyotr was dead also. But, if Pyotr died, Alexei could still get away with his life.

So he advanced carefully, taking what cover was offered by the building and vehicles left in the streets. He was rewarded with a sight of five enemy soldiers. Another easy target. But, now the things would get rough.

Pausing to catch his breath, Alexei discarded the clip already in the rifle and put in a fresh one. He did not count the bullets, but knew that it was near it's end. Then he took a deep breath and remembered Berlin. This was so much like it. Only the enemy were not the Germans, but his countrymen.

With a quick dash he was at the next corner and there was a quick peek around it. He hoped to catch the enemy from the back and to get them in a cross-fire with Pyotr. That should be enough for them to defeat them.

The rifle was set to burst mode, but he would fire it in a two or three bullet bursts trying to keep his aim steady.

--Kerensky

His new position did indeed put his targets in a cross fire between himself and Pyotr. Across the courtyard, he could spot his comrade taking shelter behind the wall. He was hiding like an animal, wildly throwing out shots whenever there was a pause in gunfire. This situation would not last much longer.

A quick round of math would suggest there should only be about ten left, but their position was broad. Only two were in Alexei's line of sight and he would have to come around the corner toward the front of the lab to get to the others. It would mean advancing his position to cover under the front doorway. The problem, of course, is that if more soldiers were in that building, it would be that doorway they'd come out of.

His bursts were well aimed, but the targets were skilled. One man got a spray in his calf an reeled around as he fell. An untrained man would have recoiled in pain and pled for help, but this man, simply reaimed his own rifle and returned fire. His companion also turned back to aid his comrade, but Pyotr took the shot and blasted him in his upper shoulder. He fell to the ground helpless to defend himself.

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

As soon as the other man fell Alexei's hand went to his belt. During the war there was always a grenade there. But, not now. This was not the war. The only thing he had was this automatic rifle. So much different from the Tokarev he used most of the war.

But, he had to end this quickly. He hoped the man he shot was gullible. So Alexei, decided to test that. Rhythm was the death in war. And he knew that. So three times in quick succession he took a few shots at the wounded man. All three times he stood and appeared high. Then he repeated it twice.

Then the change came. Alexei jumped low and took a prone position right after the jump. He waited for a second to calm his body and then took a careful aim at the man. The plan was for him to make the opponent expect the high shot and then to do it other wise.

If the plan worked he would go towards the lab entrance, but would make sure that the building was empty before he focused his attention on the man outside.

--Kerensky

The wounded man was clever, after his initial round of fire, he held his shots until Alexei showed again. The soldier's rounds crackled nearby the wounded man, but his rounds were far closer. A corner of the wall exploded next to Alexei as he recoiled to prepare for another shot.

On his second blast, the return fire was just off his shoulder, very nearly hitting him while Alexei's blast missed the target completely. The third round went similarly, gunfire echoing in the soldier's midst.

The final strike worked exactly as Alexei suspected. His foe assumed him to be an ameteur fighter, having missed so much. He never would have suspected such a clever move. The low fire, with the help of aim, strike him with several bursts in the chest. The immediate threat was over.

Alexei rounded up and spun into the doorway. The lab seemed empty, however he could hear shots coming from above. Just then, he saw Pyotr make a terrible mistake. He reeled upward from behind his wall to take aim at high snipers, but was shot from below. The officer fell backward behind the wall out of sight.

--Laveaux 09:55, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei smiled as his shots hit. The soldier was good, but he made one mistake. He undeestimated the veteran of the Great War. He won't get another chance. It was always like that.

One day I will make such a mistake. And then I will die too. But, not yet. Not now. Although this day is still not over. It might be today. He ran to the lab and barged in ready to shoot. He turned to check his back and it was then thatt he saw Pyotr make his mistake. No, you fool. Don't do that. You just had to keep them busy. You were not supposed to die.

Clutching his gun he decided that the lab was the safest place for him to be in. They would never look for him there. With a nasty smile he decided that it was time for him to pay those snipers a visit. Pulling his kife out he scouted the entrance for the way to the stairs so he could climb and see if he could handle those men silently. Then he just had to waits for soldiers to return and clear them out with a burst. Or a grenade if any of the snipers had one.

--Kerensky

Before he could locate the stairs taking him up to the snipers, Alexei heard the distinct sounds of American voices talking from down the hallway. He stood in the lobby of the unlight building facing a large hallway that extended the length of the building. A quick look would suggest there were about a dozen rooms on either side of the linolium hall and the large lab at the end, with doubledoors. Electric light poured from behind those doors and it was clear that's where the Americans were.

There was a round of silence and just then he spotted the stairs behind a closed door across the hall.

--Laveaux 09:58, 9 December 2005 (CST)

For a split of a second Alexei pondered whether he should try and overcome the Americans he heard, but decided that it was time to be careful now. He could do nothing to help Pyotr now and could just hope he was not dead but merely wounded and that the enemy will bring him here for interogation.

With a quick glance at the hall where the voices came from Alexei made his way towards the stairs. He paused at the door that led to the room with the Americans and tried to judge if he could make his way over to the stairs without getting spotted. Secrecy and silence were nice, but if there was a risk he would not hesitate to shoot.

So he stood at the door trying to breathe as silently as he could and to judge where the enemy soldiers were and how many were there. His rifle held closely to his chest the ex-soldier wanted to curse loudly, but kept his mouth shut. He knew that if he fired they would know he was here. For now he was safe, but soon the others will return, so he could not remain here.

Then an idea formed in his mind. Hostages. I could take them prisoner and bargain. These must be their commanders. Americans are like that. They let the soldiers fight while the officers sit and wait. When they should be leading their troop by example.

After about five seconds whether or not Alexei heard the Americans again, he stepped into the doorway with his rifle pointed towards anyone inside. He stood crouched a little so he could roll out of the danger. The x-soldiers finger twitched fast over the trigger as he was eager to avenge all those dead people, but he knew his best chance would be to take these men prisoner. Yet, he would not hesitate to fire it they tried to resist.

"Hands up!"

Alexei yelled the only two word he knew in english. How they would comunicate after that, he did not know, for now it would have to do.

--Kerensky

It was an office, full to the hilt with filing cabinets and poorly tended to desks. Three Americans were inside, only one of them a soldier. Two aged civilians with nice suits and spectacles were standing over the desk looking at a bound notebook. The soldier was wearing an American uniform. From the looks it could have been Navy, but Alexei couldn't be certain. In any case, they were not fatigues and he was ill-equipped for combat.

Both civilians tumbled backward in shock with their hands up, but the soldier reached for his sidearm. Realizing the move would be suicide, he hesitated and put his hands up as well.

They responded in English, but looked to each other to assist in the language. In very broken Russian, one of the civilians said, "You KGB?"

--Laveaux 09:58, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei was pleased that he did not face more foes. And the soldier seemed sensible enough. He understood that he stood no chance. And although Alexei would have no trouble shooting him, he did not wish to kill a man. God only knew he had killed enough for two lifetimes.

Fro now their question will have to wait. The ex-soldier kept his rifle pointed at the navy man's chest with his right hand and motioned with his left that the man should throw away his gun. He showed that he was to take it with two fingers and throw it into corner. His left hand quickly griped the rifle once more.

One that was done he motioned for the Americans, for they had to be Americans to gather in one corner and only then did he chance a look at the door. If possible he would shut the door with his foot before he answered their question.

"Yes, I am KGB. Do you speak Russian?" He switched to German and although it was heavily accented, it was passable. "Or maybe German?"

--Kerensky

They heeded his command, although the Navy man was somewhat reluctant. Herded into the corner, it was now safe for Alexei to close the door and latch it behind him. Instinct suggested he had a few minutes before the others begin looking for the now missing enemy.

One of the Americans in a suit meekly turned up at the sound of German.

"I speak German. We do business in Germany. I was one of the few Americans the Reich allowed to stay after the war started. Of course they came and got me after Pearl Harbor."

He looked at his companions who were obviously very interested in knowing what he just said.

"Can I translate? I mean . . . as we go? We mean you no harm and we have clearance. KGB clearance, you understand?"

--Laveaux 09:58, 9 December 2005 (CST)

Alexei watched the three men move away with caution. Special attention was paid to the Navy officer. He was the only one who bore arms and if anyone tried anything stupid it would be him. As the door clicked shut ex-soldier spread his legs a little and placed the sole of his boot next to the door. If anyone tried to open it might appear locked.

For now he stood and a brief satisfaction passed through him as the man spoke to him in German. And as the man finished, Alexei did not answer immediately. Wait for it. Let him sweat a bit. Let him feel who is in power. Who is holding the gun. A good ten seconds passed before he spoke.

"Sure. Translate all you wish. I understand your words and I understand what you are trying to say. Yet, it smells of a lie to me. If you mean me no harm why are all the people dead in that hole outside of town? And I find it hard to believe that you have KGB clearance to be in the secret government facility. Bearing weapons even. We are not friends and don't try to fool me. Also, don't try to intimidate me. I know you outnumber me at the moment, but you three will die before I do if you try anything funny. Am I understood?" he did not wait for an answer. "State your purpose, your names and your rank if you hold any. Also, I want to see that clearance you mention. Just wave it so I can see it. I'll decide if I need to take a closer look. Translate that and then start answering. And don't try to delay me and wait for your comrades to come back."

--Kerensky

"It is no lie," he attempted, "I'm a business man. Your government hired me, I swear it."

He began translating, but as he did so the Navy man did as Alexei suspected: something stupid. As if in the American Old West, he dropped his hand and fast drew his sidearm.

The draw was no match for Alexei's response. He was taking a gamble, perhaps believing the soldier was a foul shot, or didn't have the confidence. Misjudging Alexei, however, was a growing strength of the soldier and capatilistic arrogance a vice of his enemy.

The man who spoke German did not expect the move and spat out an American "No!" at the Navy man, but it was too late, the gun was drawn and in the next instant a shot would be fired.

--Laveaux 01:52, 6 February 2006 (CST)

Alexei did not hesitate a second. I warned you. Your death is your own fault. And calmly his own rifle came to his shoulder. A slight press of the trigger and a short burst of no more then four bullets flew out, aimed in the direction of the officer's head. Alexei lost count how many men he killed years ago. And it might seem terrible that someone could murder a man with so little emotions, but war does that to people. Besides, this time it was either him or Alexei.

As soon as the man fell, The gun muzzle was turned towards the civilians. For a second the soldier hesitated and the decided to give them a few more seconds of life. And he spoke in German once more. "Now, I am just waiting for a reason to shoot you as well. Now, your soldiers know where I am, so I see no reason not to shoot you on the spot and move on. You have thirty seconds to give me a reason to let you live. Starting NOW." And he was quite ready to carry out the threat.

--Kerensky

The others were silenced after their man fell. He was the most brash and the first to die. Collpasing in a heap of futility, the others watched and stammered.

It was the business man who answered first.

"I can tell you where the bomb is. The nuclear weapon. Is created and finished, as part of the deal. We were given access to the oil lines here and in return we give you the bomb.

"This was arranged at the highest levels. I assure you. This came from the very top. I have your General Secretary's signature. Please, before you go too far, this is what your country wanted. We are traitors to our country not to yours. I swear it."

The silence was long lasting and in the distance the sound of infantry foot soldiers echoed in the hall.

--Laveaux 01:52, 6 February 2006 (CST)

It was the footsteps that held Alexei's attention. Slowly he moved away from the door and listened. THe words man before him spoke barely registered on his mind. But, they did. He was trapped and all he really wanted was to be outside. Not here. Not with them. But, he needed them. And he needed to be sure he could trust them. So the gun barrel came down slightly. Just enough so they could see if was not pointed at them. But, he would still be able to pull it up and shoot.

"Fine. A misunderstanding. Tell your men to stay out, though. Just till we work out the details. I promise I won't shoot you." And he waited a few seconds to see if the other man would call of the troops outside. He could not understand English, but he hoped he could read the meaning of his words on the man's face. In a few steps he crossed the room and placed himself so he could see both the door and the men in the room and leaned back against the wall.

"Look. Me and my partner were sent to make an inspection. We got suspicious. Now, before we walk out I need a few answers. First, I would like to know when was this arranged and by whom? I would need your names and occupation. I need to know who the man outside are. Or rather if they came with you or are Soviet soldiers. Also, I need to know if you were involved in the killing of the inhabitants of this city. I don't care if you were, I just need to know. And lastly I need to know if my partner is still alive. That you can ask the men outside. After you give me my answers I will take the location of the bomb and take my leave. Understood?"

He really did not very high hopes that he would get out of this alive. But, he had to try. And he still had the rifle. These two would die for sure, and perhaps a few more. But, he would fall in the end. So, he had to cling to that last straw of hope. And try to talk his way out of it.

--Kerensky 13:23, 10 February 2006 (GMT+1)

The business man sputtered and nodded. Hesitant at first, he nodded again and then opened the door behind Alexei. Shouting English into the hall there were some return shouts. They sounded more militant as if it were men taking orders. A couple more exchanges ended with the business man closing the door and then wiping sweat from his brow.

"I am Harvey Thompson a representative from North Industries. This is Bart Johnson, my assistant. Those soldiers are Soviets, they were dispatched by Moscow to secure the city. Your government ordered the execution of these people so that word would never get out about what we were doing. We needed the facilities and the workers knew why. This was all arranged in the Kremlin, orders were given by the First Chief Directorate Fyodotov and approved by the Politburo."

He paused.

"Your partner is dead. He was shot outside."

--Laveaux 11:42, 10 February 2006 (CST)

The gun was lowered as soon as the man returned. For a moment Alexei hesitated and then hung it on his shoulder. Searching his pockets he fished out a pack of cigarettes and light one to steady his nerves and then offered them to the Americans. Taking a long pull of the smoke he rubbed his temples and then just shook his head. "Bloody mess. Okay. Look, this is a terrible mix up. We were sent here for this, but they never mentioned that they would kill the entire city. I guess we should have guessed. Never mind. I think we can salvage this situation."

An idea was starting to form in his mind. He could still get out of this alive. ''Heck, I could even get out of this better off than I started. Just got to play it right. And I think I know what to do.'' Another pull of the cigarette and another sigh. "I am sorry about your man here. I did warn him, though. Fuckin' fool. As for my partner, I saw him fall. I though he was merely wounded. Oh, I guess I shall have to finish the mission by myself. Wait here. I need to talk to the men outside. I'll be right back."

He started to realize what the plan was. ''The Americans get the bomb in. All the people are dead. No traces. Me and Pyotr come in. Find the empty city and report it. They come and discover the bomb. Only the fools took too long to finish their part. And we ran into them. But, orders change. Let us see if they listen to me.'' He did wait for their approval before he stepped out into the hall.

With a flick of his fingers he tossed the cigarette aside and searched the hall with his eyes, trying to find someone who might be in command. He remembered the officer he shot from the window and the other one he got in the room. He just hoped he did not kill all the people who might have the authority to order the men.

--Kerensky 18:53, 11 February 2006 (CST)

It took a few minutes, but Thompson spoke to the soldiers outside. Upon his return they opened the door and proceeded. The hall had good lighting and so Alexei could easily spot six soldiers in white fatigues approaching them.

It was certain which one was the leader. A blue-eyed older man, cigarette dangling from his mouth. He wore marks on his arm revealing that he was a Soviet Junior Sergeant, something Alexei could not have seen until they were up close like this. Fortunately for Alexei, he left the Red Army as a Starshina, two full grades higher.

The men were apprehensive. Toting rifles opening and glaring at Alexei and the Americans. They were wild animals hold only very briefly at bay.

"You have little time to make me believe you," the Junior Sergeant said in Russian.

--Laveaux 11:56, 12 February 2006 (CST)

Alexei's face was hard and he wore a scowl as he strode out. No matter the rank of the man before him, he was prepared, but the rank of a man before him was a good sign. ''He is confused and lost. I killed his CO and now he does not know what to do. He needs a leader. Well, I'll give him a leader.'' Reverting back to Russian, he stopped before the man.

"Starshina Alexei Sudarev, Junior Sergeant. I am KGB. First of all, watch your tongue. I will be blunt. You screwed up. You were given a mission. And you were supposed to be on schedule. You failed to meet that schedule. This city was supposed to be empty when me and my partner arrived. Instead we found several civilians and you. Deviation from the mission plan means problems. And this was a very sensitive mission. No fuck ups."

He was slowly settling into his role. Heck he was even starting to believe his own words. ''Keep it up. Make him even more scared. But, don't let him crack.'' "There was to be no witnesses. Yet, if my information is correct over forty civilians remain. And let us not forget you killed a KGB operative. See, when we came and saw troops here we assumed you were betrayed by the Americans. We never anticipated that you would be behind schedule." A brief pause as Alexei closed his eyes as if trying to clear his mind. "No matter. We can still salvage this. But, you will have to listen. Can you do that, Junior Sergeant?"

A sneer graced Alexei's face as he uttered the other man's rank. He waited for a nod before he continued. "You will take you men and the Americans and leave this city as if nothing happened. A few kilometers up the road you will find a jeep. Set up an ambush in that vicinity. I will gather the civilians and lead them towards you. No witnesses. But, please be careful not to shoot me. After the civilians are eliminated we can proceed as planned. Understood?" He gave orders before. But, this was different. This time his life directly depended on whether his troops found the orders acceptable.

--Kerensky 14:39, 12 February 2006 (CST)

The Junior Sergeant's confidence waned almost immediately. Fear spilled across his blue eyes and he looked at his comrades for some sort of support, which he did not receive. After Alexei was done submitting orders, the subordinate cleared his throat.

"We remained, comrade, to quell the civilian unrest. I hope our efforts will be recorded in your report. We did not know you to be KGB, we thought you were leading the civilians. Please accept my apology, comrade, I serve the Soviet Union."

Then back to the other men he barked, "You heard him, comrades. Go! Mobilize!"

"We will march to the jeep as you order," he said not able to keep eye contact.

--Laveaux 10:26, 19 February 2006 (CST)

Alexei turned to hide a smile and walked back into the room. He was much more relaxed now. As he saw it there were two ways out. He could follow up with the plan he just gave the Sergeant. Or he could gather the people and kill the soldiers. ''Now I only need to see which way I gain the most. Pyotr is dead. So, I can't question him about the mission. These people seem genuine. And I am working for the KGB now. Let us see this bomb of their and then they can go.''

Taking out a cigarette, Alexei lit it and smiled after he took a deep breath. "Relax. It is settled. You will leave the city with the soldiers and await me for a while. I will clean up the mess you made and make sure the mission is back on the track. You left too many witnesses. I will make sure they are dealt with. The Sergeant has his orders. I am mad like Hell because of this, but I think we will manage to sort it out."

The ex-soldier inclined his head and stretched his shoulders a bit to ease the tension there. "Now, only one thing remains. Take me to this bomb of yours so I can verify your story in full. And then you are free to go.We shall meet again and discuss it in more detail. Lead the way, gentlemen." And he waited for them to take him to this precious thing that was worth lives of a population of an entire city.

--Kerensky 08:31, 27 February 2006 (CST)

Relief was the core attribute of the civilian's faces. The Sergeant having left they were now relaxed, at ease that it was sorted out and the KGB was once again in charge. Dabbing sweat from his brow, Thompson opened the door and headed out left followed by Johnson. The troops were already heading out of the building and a quick sideward glance would reveal stretchers being brought out for the dead and wounded. It could be assumed that Pyotr's body was being attended to outside.

Down the hall and deeper into the building, Thompson stopped at a locked door. Fumbling, he found the proper key and opened it. Another corridor was revealed, but this looked more like a clinic than a manufacturing area. White spotless tile and freshly painted walls were the prime decor. As they proceeded, they passed thick glass that allowed one to look into each of the corridor's rooms. There were some storage areas, some filing and recording, and then small-parts manufacturing.

Inside the corridor's last hall was a heart-stopping sight. A single nuclear warhead was assembled and secured into a green-metal box. The warhead was gray with a red tip and single red star on its side. The room was vacant but the lights on. Thompson opened the door and let the others inside. --Laveaux 14:40, 4 March 2006 (CST)

Alexei shielded his emotions. The veteran could feel the cold sweat gathering in the small of his back, but the danger was over for now. As the smoke filled his lings, he could feel the tension in his muscles ease. Only now did he realize how tensed his body was. It was over, and he was grateful. Death was not so imminent. Future did, hold a lot of danger, but he would cross that river when he got to it. For now, he could follow the civilians and find that bomb of theirs.

He needed some time to think. To decide what to do. ''Maybe Doctor Lyubov could explain a few things. Damn this. I need the fatcs. Clear orders. If I get out of this alive, I may just learn something new. That KGB is not for me.'' For now all he could do was wait. Two plans were forming in his mind. And according to each people would die. He dreaded the choice. He had to make it, but that did not mean he had to like it.

Flicking his unfinishes cigarette to the floor, Alexei shouldered his way into the room. The bomb looked like a bomb as far he was concerned. So it was genuine. With a nod he turned back towards Thomspon. "All right. We are settled then. If there is nothing more I need to know, you are to get ready and follow the Sergeant. If there are no problems we should be safe in a day or so. So, are you ready?"

--Kerensky 05:58, 27 March 2006 (CST)

Grunting in official obligation, the Westerners left the room with Kerensky. The building was already abandoned as soldiers mobilized and headed out from the new KGB man's order. They moved quickly, getting their gear set up for combat and loading ammunition onto half a dozen jeeps.

As he reentered the courtyard it became suddenly clear that Pyotr was not dead. In fact, he was being placed on a stretcher by the Red Army and was being brought into a medical facility just in from the courtyard. There was a wound in his abdomen, but he was conscious if a bit pale.

Upon seeing Alexei, the policeman said, "I hope you know what the hell is going on here . . ." and he coughed up a bit of blood.

--Laveaux 09:19, 7 April 2006 (CDT)

Appearing not to be interested, Alexei tried to count the soldiers as best as he could. He needed to know both sides of the story before he decided which side to take. This was about survival, but he still had a soul. ''I can't send fourty men and women to death, just to save me if there is a chance to save them. I won't risk my life to do it though. I need to see who I am dealing with. '' And then Pyotr came into his view. Alive. For a second Alexei stood his mouth falling open. Cigarette fell out from his lips and issed in the snow.

In several hops the veteran was at the policeman's side and gripped his hand. "Just relax. I have this under control." I think. "Go with them. I will follow soon. I need to take care of some unfinished business. Just keep quiet. And everything will be alright." The young man wished he truly felt that. But, it was far from his mind. So many things could go wrong. Turning to the soldiers carrying Pyotr, Alexei stopped them for a minute. "Take care of him. Anything happens to Pyotr and I will hold you personaly responsible." A sickeningly sweet smile spread across the soldier's lips emphasizing the threat.

All he could do now was wait for the soldiers to leave. He needed then to be safely out of the city before he could put his plan into motion. He did have a plan. Only it could go two ways. And until he saw Doctor Lyubov again he did not know which path he will take.

--Kerensky 18:47, 21 April 2006 (CDT)