User blog:Bzero/Cobra Commander – Updated Orders

Cobra Commander appears in the Oval Office, sitting behind the expansive Resolute desk. Cobra flags hang on poles on either side of him. He’s wearing his red hood and matching elbow-length crimson gloves, with a scarlet cape thrown jauntily over one shoulder. His face is hidden, but his hissing, electronically-enhanced voice sounds pleased. He leans back in his chair and delivers the following short speech:

“Cobra – your relief efforts in the Gulf region have been remarkable. I am quite content with your performance thus far. I’ve heard rumors of G.I. Joe involvement, but so be it – if they want to help make us look good, more power to them. If you spot them in our territory, monitor their activities and report their movements but do not move against them yet. I will not have us seen fighting where victims still require rescue.

“That is the carrot. This is the stick: While our relief efforts show America what good governance can look like, we must also show them the alternative. Zartan, you will direct your Dreadnoks to terrorize areas not under Cobra control. I want people to fear the lawlessness America has fallen into under the failed leadership of President MacLeod. Keep them away from our Cobra-dominated cities, but everywhere else – have at it; the more destruction the better. Enjoy yourselves.

“The rest of you have a choice – you can guard our cities, join our relief efforts, or participate with the Dreadnoks, as your inclinations allow. Coordinate your efforts with General Hannibal. I will be overseeing the bigger picture.” Cobra Commander leans forward and stares into the camera with cold, ice-blue eyes. “Every day we extend our influence. Every minute we coil more tightly around the core of this country. Today America, tomorrow the world. Cobra!” With a raised fist, Cobra Commander ends the recording.