The Fourth Hour

  He never knew this day would ever happen. Here he was preparing for the invasion of America when only a few minutes ago he was trying to celebrate the Christmas holidays with his family. “I guess beggars can't be choosers,” he muttered as he walked up to the center of the new situation room.

  The current new room he was in was The Raven Rock Mountain Complex. After all, Washington, according to his subordinates, was deemed too dangerous, probably due to whatever new threat was taking hold of the country.

  “Well, let's get on with it. General, how bad are things right now?” The President looked at the sorrowful and angry faces that surrounded the room.

  “Well, sir, things have gone straight to excuse my French, shit.” The General moved back to the screen towards the front of the room. An image projected onto the wall from an out of sight projector in the walls showing the ruins of D.C. broadcasted from a a satellite judging from the overhead image of it

  “As you can see Mr President, D.C. was hit with full force, nuclear or otherwise. All we know is that almost all governmental centers, including the Pentagon, House of Representatives, and the Capitol Building, have been completely destroyed. Casualties are in the tens of thousands, and the infrastructure is in ruins. Communication lines are down, and chaos is spreading.”

  The President's face hardened as he absorbed the information. “Holy shit…. What about our response capabilities? Do we have any functioning command centers or any functioning government left?”

  The General nodded grimly. “We've managed to establish temporary command centers in secure locations like this one and the states are trying to come up with replacements for current heads of government and representatives wiped out in the blast. Our military forces are mobilizing, but the enemy’s technology is far beyond anything we’ve encountered. We're working on countermeasures, but it's going to take time.”

  The President nodded “Good at least our country isn't falling apart at the seams, so what of the attackers is it Isis, North Korea I need answers Damit!!”

  The General took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting the weight of the situation. "Mr. President, our intelligence is still piecing together the puzzle. The attack was highly coordinated and executed with precision. Initial reports suggest a coalition of rogue states and terrorist organizations, but we can't rule out the involvement of a new, unidentified entity."

  The President's jaw tightened. "We need answers, General. Our people are looking to us for leadership. What about our allies? Have we received any support or communication from them?"

  A young aide stepped forward; her voice steady despite the chaos. "Sir, we've established contact with NATO and several key allies. They're mobilizing their forces and offering humanitarian aid. However, they're also facing similar attacks on their soil. It's a global crisis."

  The President nodded, his mind racing. "We need to coordinate with them. Set up a secure line for a joint task force meeting. We can't afford to act in isolation."

  The General turned back to the screen, highlighting key areas on the map. "Our immediate priority is to secure our remaining infrastructure and protect our citizens. We've deployed National Guard units to major cities to maintain order and assist with evacuations. Our cyber teams are working around the clock to restore communication networks and prevent further breaches."

  The President's eyes narrowed as he considered the enormity of the task ahead. "What about our nuclear capabilities? Are they compromised?"

  The General shook his head. "Our nuclear arsenal remains secure, Mr. President. We've taken every precaution to ensure it stays that way. However, we must be cautious in our response. Any aggressive action could escalate the situation further."

  A tense silence filled the room as the President weighed his options. "We need to show strength, but also wisdom. Our response must be measured and strategic. General, I want a detailed

  The General took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting the weight of the situation. "Sir, we have intelligence suggesting that this attack is not from any known state actor. It's something... different. Our analysts are working around the clock to identify the source, but it's unlike anything we've seen before."

  The President's eyes narrowed. "Different? What do you mean, General?"

  The General hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Our preliminary reports indicate that the technology used in the attack is far more advanced than anything currently known to us. It's possible that we are dealing with an extraterrestrial threat."

  A stunned silence fell over the room. The President's face turned pale as he processed the information. "Extraterrestrial? Are you telling me we're being invaded by aliens?"

  The General nodded slowly. "We have received intelligence reports that massive floating ships were the reason for the destruction of the capitals around the world, hell I wouldn't believe it after all our satellites have recorded no such ships appearing but we have received a picture from a renowned Reporter over near London disaster area, this image that we have received correspondence with eyewitness testimony of the large metal ships flying over cities sir ."

  The image was slashed up on the wall the floating brick in the sky with cannons pointing in all directions looking like something out of a Sci-Fi movie

  “Hell, I thought after spending billions on spy satellites our government would at least be able to detect something as big as a damn city, least see heat signatures” the president said

  “Well, Mr. President we are dealing something that is out of scope sir a never seen before enemy that has weapons and tech well beyond the scope of our imagination

  The President took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Alright, General. I want all available resources dedicated to identifying and countering this threat. We need to protect our people and our country at all costs."

  The General saluted. "Yes, sir. We'll do everything in our power to defend our nation."

  As the President turned to leave the room, he paused and looked back at the General. "And General, make sure our allies are informed. We may need their help in this fight."

  The General nodded. "Understood, sir. I'll make the necessary arrangements."

  The President walked out of the situation room, his mind racing with the enormity of the task ahead. He knew that the coming days would be some of the most challenging in the history of the United States, but he was determined to lead his country through this crisis.

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  S.T.A.C.C Command Vessel

  AREA: Dark side of the moon

  Audio Log REPORT OF: United Universal Republic STRIKE COMMANDER

  The dark side of the moon—a place once host to many conspiracy theories, ranging from Nazis hiding behind it to aliens having bases on it, just like that Transformers movie in Universe 176. What was it called again? Ah, whatever. I guess we're about to make those kooks right after all, once we're done with this invasion.

  I still have to admit, from command, it's a pretty ballsy move that they're trying to pull right now. Their grand plan of invading Earth and also trying to minimize casualties in order to take control of the populace for the war effort is a pretty interesting thought. I mean, I hope it works out. We need to fight the Menace that our comrades and armies have been battling for centuries and get all the resources that we need to end this multiversal war here and now. Only then, when the Director rules all, will there truly be peace throughout the universe, I suppose.

  If you come across this story on Amazon, it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

  There's the old argument: why the hell would you want to take over the whole universe, remove religions, and massacre races? But we are really doing it for peace... You know what, that is a small price to maintain order and keep our families and planets safe from disputes, famine, and war. I mean, holy hell, have you seen the number of wars caused throughout history by racial prejudice, religion, and ideology? It's INSANE. You would think after all this time people would learn but-

  Ah, sorry, I ranted again. I should get back to the point of the main matter. We have successfully located the resource sichio in large amounts in the area known on some versions of Earth as the Middle East, along with parts of North America and Asia, as our Commander predicted.

  High Command Meeting

  Inside the shadowy confines of the command center, illuminated only by the eerie glow of holographic displays, the Strategic Operations Director leaned over the central console, studying the real-time feed from Earth.

  "Commander," a voice broke through the silence, bringing the attention of the room to Admiral Kael, one of the high-ranking officials. His cold, calculating demeanor reflected years of hardened experience. "Admiral, report on the mining operations," the Commander demanded.

  "Our mechanized units have successfully secured key resource deposits. The extraction of sichio is underway with minimal resistance. However, local insurgents are beginning to regroup, and we've detected transmissions suggesting attempts to rally a global defense."

  "Typical," the Commander sneered. "They never learn no matter the universe. I guess the Human spirit always fights on, eh?"

  A chuckle echoed around the room; the satire not lost on them as the multiversal war was just utter proof of that concept. "Increase the deployment of our non-human units. Ensure there's no breach in our supposed secure perimeter."

  "Yes, sir," Admiral Kael responded, his fingers dancing over the console to relay the orders.

  Strategic Operations Director turned towards the Communications Officer. "How are we managing the propaganda initiative?"

  "Effective, sir. Public broadcasts in the African region are painting us as liberators. Our humanitarian fronts are well-received, with our medical teams attending to the injured under the guise of goodwill. The populace is buying it."

  The Commander smirked. "Perfect. Once the resistance is quashed, and we've established control over the resource-rich regions, we'll commence Phase Two. The Director's vision will be realized."

  General Aria, another high-ranking officer, interjected. "What about the Earth governments? How are they responding?"

  "We've intercepted communications from their so-called 'joint task force.' They're in disarray, scrambling to form a coherent defense strategy. They won't pose any significant threat," the Communications Officer assured.

  The doors to the command center slid open, revealing the Chief Scientist, Dr. Varon, his face etched with concern. "Commander, we've analyzed the enemy's technology. It appears they're attempting to develop countermeasures to our mechanized units. They're more resourceful than we anticipated."

  The Commander nodded thoughtfully. "Keep our scientists and engineers on high alert. I want regular updates on their progress. We can't afford to underestimate them."

  Dr. Varon nodded and left the room, leaving the Commanders to turn back to Admiral Kael. "And what of our psychological operations? Are we ensuring that any captured insurgents are... reeducated?"

  Admiral Kael responded with a grim smile. "Of course, sir. Our conditioning programs are in full effect. Resistance leaders are being systematically turned to our cause. Soon, they'll be our most fervent advocates."

  The Commander nodded in approval. "Good. Keep applying pressure. We must break their will to fight. Every corner of this planet must understand the futility of resistance."

  As the meeting concluded, the Commander gazed out of the viewport, the dark side of the moon casting an ominous shadow over the unfolding invasion. "Victory is within our grasp. For the Director. For peace."

  EU Command Nato-EU Center

  The 7th Hour

  To put it bluntly, the entire E.U. was in meltdown. Remnants of the governments of France, Germany, and Britain were trying to recover the loss of government officials and the collapsing economy. Unknown units composed of hulking lizard-like brutes, massive tank mechs equipped with missiles and laser mini guns, and straight-up mechs that looked like they came from a science fiction plot were now a harsh reality. NATO was struggling—half of Europe had already fallen in under three hours. The Supreme Allied Commander of Europe sighed, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. Around him, things were falling apart. Now, he had to make a stand.

  “Well, what is the situation, ladies and gentlemen?” he asked, a tired tone escaping his lips.

  General Edward Langley, a seasoned British officer, spoke up first. “Sir, our forces are stretched thin. The enemy's technology is far beyond anything we've encountered. Our conventional weapons are barely scratching their armor. We're coordinating with what's left of our European allies, but the situation is dire, sir.”

  Admiral Hans Müller from Germany added, “We've lost contact with several key command centers. Our naval fleets are holding their positions in the North Sea, but we’re receiving reports of massive casualties. We need reinforcements, and we need them now.”

  General Jacques Lefevre, a French officer, chimed in, “Paris is in chaos. We've set up temporary command centers, but morale is low. The civilian population is terrified, and our supply lines are being targeted. We need a comprehensive strategy to stabilize our defenses and support our allies.”

  General Maria Aria interjected, “Our cyber teams are working on disrupting the enemy's communication and supply lines, but it's a race against time. If we can't buy ourselves enough time to regroup and strengthen our defenses, we risk losing more ground.”

  “Shit, we have been training to fight damn Russians and insurgents, not f-ing aliens,” General Langley responded, bringing his fist down on the table. “Have there been any successful counter attacks recently?”

  The Supreme Commander looked around the room, which was oddly quiet.

  A general in the back stood from his chair, his camo reflecting into the glass table. “Sir, there has been some success in containing them. We've so far put them into a stalemate along the French border with Belgium, Germany, and some parts of Luxembourg. Air support has been a great help. The F-35s have been instrumental in keeping them at bay, as it seems the enemy has no stealth capabilities.”

  Admiral Müller added, “We've also deployed our advanced frigates and destroyers from the 2nd Fleet, including the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Ticonderoga-class cruisers. These ships have provided crucial missile defense and naval gunfire support.”

  The Supreme Commander breathed a sigh of relief. “At least we have some defense against those damn things,” he thought.

  A comms officer interrupted, “Sir, we have a secured line from the President of the United States. He wishes to address the council immediately.”

  The Supreme Allied Commander nodded. “Patch him through.”

  The flat screen displays flickered, and the President of the United States appeared, his face etched with determination. “Ladies and gentlemen, I understand the gravity of the situation you're facing. The United States is mobilizing all available resources to support our NATO allies. We are forming a counterattack strategy and will commence operations within the hour. Our objective is to halt the enemy's advance and reclaim lost territories.”

  General Robert Cavoli, SACEUR, interjected, “Mr. President, our intelligence indicates that the enemy's primary objective is to secure some sort of area for what reason we aren't sure of. They've been heavily focused on getting a hold of the Middle East, Europe, and parts of Asia, with some of the more recent reports we have been receiving from our friends in Taiwan and Japan. We need to coordinate a global response.”

  The President nodded. “Understood, General, we are already on that. We have deployed additional troops to key locations, and our air forces are preparing for a full-scale assault on enemy positions.We prepared for whatever it takes to take our planet back.”

  General Aria spoke up, “Our cyber teams are working on disrupting the enemy's communication and supply lines. We need to buy ourselves time to regroup and strengthen our defenses.”

  The President's voice was resolute. “We are with you, every step of the way. Together, we will overcome this threat. Stay strong and stay united. I will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.”

  General Langley added, “Sir, we also need immediate air support. Our ground forces are being overrun, and our current air capabilities are insufficient to counter the enemy's advanced technology, Mr. President.”

  The President responded, “We are deploying our best fighter jets and bombers to your region. Our reactivation of the 2nd Fleet will help you with the current air support situation in Europe, and we will be sending F-35s and F-22s, seeing as how stealth is now the main focus the F22s primarily did some wonders down in Kuwait. Additionally, the USS George H.W. Bush and the USS Harry S. Truman, our Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, are being redirected to the Mediterranean to provide further air and naval support.”

  General Lefevre asked, “What about civilian evacuation? The cities are becoming war zones, and we need to ensure the safety of our people.”

  The President replied, “We've coordinated with humanitarian organizations to set up evacuation corridors. Our priority is to get as many civilians to safety as possible while we engage the enemy.”

  The Supreme Allied Commander took a deep breath. “Thank you, Mr. President. Your support is crucial in this fight. We will hold the line and reclaim our territories.”

  The connection ended, and the room was filled with a renewed sense of determination. The Supreme Allied Commander turned to his officers. “You heard the President. We need to hold the line. Coordinate with our allies and execute the counteroffensive plans. This is our moment to stand firm and protect our people.”

  As the officers moved to their respective stations, the Supreme Allied Commander took a deep breath. The fight ahead would be brutal, but with unity and determination, they had a chance to turn the tide.

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