In the Shadow of the Red Star

6. The Truth.

August 29, 1991

7:34 am

Minsk carrier exploration fleet

Unknown island Southeast, Unknown Southern sea

"Admiral," a soldier introduced himself, "the native group B has reached out to our land expedition concerning the language barrier."

"Hold on," interrupted Silin. "Which group is this?"

"The ones with plate armor, sir," the soldier replied.

"Go on," Silin allowed him to continue.

"Yes," the soldier answered "As I was saying, the native group B has contacted our expedition regarding the language barrier. They have presented our diplomatic team with a woman from the native group A, who is at least 25 or 30 years old and has learned the language of group B. She is also willing to learn our language to facilitate communication between the two groups."

"And has it worked?" Silin inquired.

"They are awaiting our permission at the carrier bridge," the soldier informed him.

"I will accompany you," Silin responded. "I just need to sort out some things."

August 29, 1991

7:02 pm

Temporary base 'Krab 01'

Unknown island Southeast, Unknown Southern sea

"Yes...yes, understood," Toporkov communicated through a radio transceiver, while the Soviet marines set up tents near the landing ships and vehicles, ensuring they were far enough from the Thetbuteans and Gomrudeans to avoid any conflict or misunderstanding. Later, Toporkov concluded his call and walked over to a tent near the shoreline, where his team was joined by Thetbutean soldiers and a Gomrudean woman.

"Mr. Stepankov, we have permission," Toporkov announced to his partner, Stepankov Alexei Pavlovich.

"Excellent," Stepankov responded, turning his attention to the Thetbuteans, and gestured towards the woman, who the Thetbuteans understood, and removed her shackles, leaving only her hands shackled. They then left for the Gomrudean village.

On their way, one of the soldiers asked his partner, "Do you think it was a good idea to give her to them?"

"Lord Tedric ordered it; we must obey," the other soldier replied in a stern tone. Besides, if she learned Winefrith in two days, it won't take her long to learn the language they speak."

August 30, 1991

6:34 am

Ropucha-class Landing Ship

Island of Gomrud, Southern Sea

Silin observed the ocean landscape, the sand, which appeared almost white as snow, and the pristine, light blue water reflecting the sunlight. This one was particularly clear, allowing him to see through it. He marveled at the variety of fish and corals, each one a different color and size, though he couldn't quite place them.

"Admiral, isn't this view magnificent?" Toporkov asked, sarcastically, offering him a cup of tea from two he was holding.

"This place is indeed beautiful," Silin replied, still captivated by the view. "It reminds me of...eh...corn...yes! corn islands! They're near the island of Cuba, though. Did you come here for the view too?"

"No, Admiral," Toporkov responded. "I wanted to discuss our hosts with you. They're in the kitchen right now."

6:35 am