An Eagle is reborn (Earth II)

[Drvarska]

It had only been 3 years since the Drvarskan flag was lowered over the central government building in the heart of Drvar, Serbia (Belgrade) following a collapse of government. The former President Vladimir Orlov, leader of the region since 1996 had been exiled along with his cabinet and military advisors to The German Region in 2010. It was not long before native Drvarskans had began to flee their homeland to various parts of the world to evade the Russian Union State which took control of Ukraine and Moldolva the same year. A couple years later, the Olmerian regime began to take control of the region and established a new state under their rule, sending many former-Drvarskans to rebel and fight for independence. However, their hopes were lost when Olmerian military forces overpowered them and many young men and women had lost their lives. The only last remaining hope of the Drvarskans who are left trapped in the region is for the exiled colonies to return to the homeland by force and push the Olmerians out of Eastern Europe.

By 2013, Drvarskans had established control over a majority of states in West Africa and a Libyan colony (known as the frontier), as a native population inhabited the region. President Vladimir Orlov had resumed presidency as the exiled government left The German Region before it collapsed and became ruled by Italian Mafias. The main priority of the Federation is to ensure national security measures and the armament of its defence forces to prepare for a Cold War that was to follow with the Olmerians. The Drvarskan-controlled Libyan states had become the foundation of heightened national security measures by stationing the majority of Drvarska’s active military force and primary defensive positions along the Mediterranean coast. Shortly after being restored as President of the Federation, Vladimir Orlov made a visit to overlook the re-militarization process in Libya and to further discuss with his cabinet the future security aims of Drvarska and the next step in achieving the liberation of former Drvarskan territories.

======================

Quba, Libya
‘Koprovnik’ Air Force Base

President Vladimir Orlov sat silently staring out the window of the conference room on board the Ilyushin Il-96-300 Presidential Aircraft as it taxied on the tarmac. Already he can sense the heat of the blazing desert sun outside, a terrain which native Drvarskans still needed to adjust to after Eastern Europe. As the aircraft came to a halt, the pilot made an announcement over the speaker.

“We have landed at Koprovnik Air Force base, the local time is 1015. Enjoy your visit, Mr. President.”

The seatbelt sign turned off and Orlov started to make his way to the front entrance passing the communications control room where operators stood to attention as he walked by. The pilot himself stood at the door to further thank the President and see the rest of the cabinet off the plane. As Orlov stepped down the landing stairs into the heat of North Africa, below was a formation of ceremonial division guards lined up to his motorcade and senior military officials awaiting to welcome him to the base. After exchanging salutes they began to drive to the main headquarters where a briefing of the days schedule will take place, followed by a tour of the base and inspection of units. Koprovnik Air Force base is home to Drvarska’s Airborne Forces and the ‘Ivanov’ fleet, a primary arm of Drvarska’s active Air Force. Being the new headquarters of the Airborne Forces, the base was home to the 1st and 6th Airborne Infantry Divisions, both units being in existence since the 2nd Drvark War during the 1940s. Their sister unit, the 21st Airborne Division resides in Guinea, West Africa to specialise in jungle warfare and anti-guerrilla operations. However, common exchanges in units take place allowing a more diverse training environment, making the airborne forces the toughest and best trained infantry in the Drvarskan military. Following a briefing with the staff, the President was taken to a drop range to observe a demonstration of a company air assault from the 1st Airborne Infantry, along with an airborne mechanized unit equipped with the newly introduced BMD-4M IFV as support. The demonstration itself was well executed, as the sky above the President was covered with paratroopers and vehicle drops droned out by the Ilyushin Il-76 strategic transports. Following a quick unit re-organisation, a company advance was demonstrated into a mock urban training area. With a brief display of firepower from the IFVs on the range, a ‘show and tell’ demonstration of small arms was given, including the Zastava M21 Assault Rifle and explosives used by the paratroopers. After the conclusion of the live fire events, a brief visit to the soldiers barracks was made and a very thorough inspection followed. The only thoughts that went through the mind of the President were flashbacks to the day he was doing conscription in the former-Soviet Drvarska, and room inspections meant the difference of getting the day off or being beaten during restrictive duties for a mud stained boot. He walked around and personally invited soldiers into open discussion about their living arrangements and how he was proud to have them at the forefront of the newly reformed Drvarskan Federation.

Following the tour of the base, the President, cabinet and senior military staff reassembled in the headquarters to further discuss improvements and security projects. The Defence Minister, Stefan Polm began the topic with the composition of forward defensive positions along the Libyan coast.

“Gentlemen, I hoped you enjoyed today’s demonstration, and our confidence in the militarization process of our Air Force and Airborne forces. Not only our attention is needed in the primary attack role of our forces but also defensives along the Northern coast is another priority. While the Olmerians occupy the last of the former-Drvarskan states along the Adriatic, it has opened up a more potential naval threat in the Mediterranean. Two years ago, we had established a coastal militarization zone in Libya creating a defensive wall to the sea. The defensives are made up of various underground bunkers, coastal artillery positions, air defensives and early warning systems to ensure that if an invasion threat was imminent, we will be ready to respond.”

“What of the Black Sea Fleet?” responded a minister.

“Yes, now renamed the ‘Nord’ fleet since its relocation from Ukraine a few years ago. It remains our most important naval asset yet, and based out of Tobruk, it holds the most concentrated defensive measures along the coastal wall. The 2nd and 7th Marine Infantry Division is based in that area as well and an ongoing expansion process is allowing a standby capability for both divisions if an international incident was to occur.”

“What do we have spearheading the fleet?” Orlov questioned. An Admiral was quick to further elaborate the Defence Minister’s report.

“We have two Admiral Kuznetsov class Aircraft carriers and one Kirov class Battlecruiser based there, Mr. President. Accompanying them is a fleet of escort destroyers, frigates and minesweepers. This along with a division of Lada class attack submarines and a couple remaining Kilo class submarines in reserve. Our Borei-class ballistic missile submarines are always on standby if in need of a response for a nuclear strike in both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. This fighting arm of our navy will ensure the security of our transport and landing ships, giving us a powerful amphibious landing force.”

“Very well, I am very impressed and proud to say the pride of Drvarska’s military forces has made an aggressive rebirth in light of the re-establishment of our nation.”

Following further topics of military importance, the meeting concluded and the staff was brought to a large military parade ground where a platoon of ceremonial guard, backed by a battalion of paratroopers stood at attention awaiting the flag raising ceremony. As the President was escorted to the main stand, the General of the Army concluded an introductory speech and stood at attention. The shouts of company commanders brought the soldiers to attention and a salute to arms. The President responded with a firm salute and the ceremonial guard marched up to the front and began the ceremonial process of raising the Drvarskan Federation Flag, the first time the colours have flown on a military base since the collapse of the Federation. The flag was raised and followed with a band playing the national anthem. A two-minute silence took place to honour the men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the defence of the Federation. A steady cool afternoon breeze from the sea swept through the ground and waved the flag proudly, displaying the Federation stars flanking the Drvarskan Mountain Eagle, clutching the rifle of Reznov.

[Helissa]

Free Airspace Over Jabal al Akhdar Libya, Near Quba

"Redirecting flight pattern to 010 north, optics to 090 magnifying to target."

The only light in the dark control room was from the four large screens in the front, the two largest screens showed the flight path and feed from the surveillance camera on the Denel Dynamics Bateleur UAV flying on the edge of free airspace in eastern Libya.

"Direct optical angel to target and magnify." A man dressed in black dress uniform with white cords dangling from his shoulder ordered. The screen in front of him switched several times as the camera zoomed in on a small airfield in Libya. Several aircraft were pictured on the screen along with what seemed to be a good deal of military personnel dressed in ceremonial garb. "Begin recording."

"Record of video traffic begun at 1020 hours." The Army Air Force Officer manning the camera announced as they watched the screen. They could see the Ilyushin Il-96-300 parked on the tarmac with a number of men stepping off the aircraft.

"Are you watching this sir?" The man dressed in black uniform spoke into a headset attached to his ear.

A few hundred miles away in the capital of Donovia the Under-Minister of Intelligence was watching the video footage of the many figures in the Libyan desert. "Vladimir Orlov, Drvarskan President from Serbia." The minister spoke into a phone at his desk.

"It seems like it sir, our intelligence network in Libya spoke of large activity in the east from an unknown military force that has moved into the area. This confirms that it is Drvarskan refugees settling in the area."

"What of the reports in eastern Africa?"

"Large amounts of the same along the Ivory Coast. The aircraft pictured originated from that area."

"Very well, I will report to the Minister, until then keep our network working on this, watch it carefully."

"Yes Sir." The intelligence officer in the dark room pressed a button on his headset. "Move the Bateleur back towards Helissan airspace, lets not cause an international incident. Ensure ground intelligence keeps tabs on this."

[United States of Brink]

The Republic was keeping a close eye on events unfolding in Northern Africa. North Africa was a thorn in the side of African stability for centuries, with governments coming and going. Imperialism still held sway, with Europe claiming the land piecemeal only to forfeit for one reason or another. The Republic hardly made any formal attempts at diplomacy with these nations, having seen far too much work already squandered by inept officials and worse policies. The developments in Libya were astounding altogether and, yet, it was no different from times past. It was a new kind of imperialism, the kind where an outlawed government simply takes route in a place they are not familiar nor belong. They set a flag in the sand where people already live. It was to the point where that population would hardly bat an eye, knowing full well that this government would last the same as every other. It was but a blip on the radar, another inconvenience in a long line of inconveniences. The people would soldier on which is more than could be said for the average government.

Windhoek watched the sad procession unfold, countless mistakes by a government that hadn’t learned from previous ones. What was worse was the fact that this new government showed signs of democracy, some semblance of freedom. It was just the type of leadership that the Republic was all too willing to help, to provide aid for firm establishment. But it was North Africa, and rules of engagement were built on decades of reputable history. This European surrogate of a nation started with military parades and military reorganization. Strike one. A military, especially for a young fledging nation, was unimportant, trumped by more pressing matters like the establishment of infrastructure and legitimate financial institutions. What good is a military if it has nothing to defend? A powerful military, when stood alone, provides no legitimacy for a government and, instead, offers visions of corruption and tyranny. North Africans, Libyans, had seen far too much of that. What they haven’t seen is investments in roads, telecommunications, and schools. What they haven’t seen is taxes that provided noticeable services like fire and police. Yet, this nation, decided to parade around a military that did little to prevent its collapse before.

The Republic had seen it all before, totalitarianism thinly veiled as democracy. It was the plight of a continent, of the world for that matter. Until this new nation proved itself, the Republic would remain silent and observant.

[Drvarska]

Following the military demonstrations at Koprovnik Air Force Base, the President was flown to Tobruk to observe the progress of the Federation Naval and Marine forces for a conclusion of the defence tour of North Africa. However, other visits were on the agenda that did not involve the priorities of national security. A number of areas in the rural and urban provinces of Torbuk had undergone national infrastructure projects to improve medical facilities, schools, public transportation services and entertainment districts, all aimed at developing the welfare of the local and Drvarskan populace. There had been widespread diversity when Drvarskans first inhabited the region, integration had become a domestic priority for the Federation. Improving basic human services was the first step on the road for unity as clean water, access to food and consumer goods, social welfare and job security was re-established in communities. The ongoing second phase to promote a multi-cultural society presented a successful rise in favour of the Drvarskan-controlled North African territory. Today, President Orlov was to examine only a segment of the integration process through a visit to a local public school and career centre and give him an insight of the future for the youth of the Federation.

Tobruk, Libya
Tobruk International Airport

The usual proceedings greeted the President as the Il-96-300 touched down at Tobruk International Airport. A motorcade comprised of an armoured limousine and a column of armoured Land Cruisers complementing government secret service agents was arranged to escort the President through the streets. Tightened security measures were in affect along the motorcade route, although hidden from public view as not to cause stress to the everyday lives of the people. There was a sense of calm as Orlov looked out the window as passer-bys were walking in the streets, men and women of all cultures blended into the crowd of pedestrians. However, there looked to be some complication in the diversity of languages and text on signs or advertising as the majority was split into English and local dialects. However, ethnic Drvarskan Serbian or Russian was dominant in some areas. As the motorcade arrived at its first destination, ‘Halkovsk’ High School, a crowd was already present waving flags and cheering on as President Orlov made his first public appearance in Libya. With a presence of police officers on close watch with the crowd, Orlov was escorted to the main entrance of the school, waving and shaking hands with the people flooding the streets trying to catch a glimpse of their newly appointed leader. Upon entering the school, Orlov was greeted with an assembly of students lined up in a courtyard preparing to sing the Federation National Anthem. The President watched whilst other government officials saluted or stood to attention, smiling as the students sang. They were dressed in regulatory school uniform – some slightly altered to accommodate certain religious requirements, it was a sight of a diverse multi-cultural youth group formed into a single equal body. The President made a speech to show his appreciation and pride in the performance of the school as well as the welcoming hospitality of the people. A short tour followed of the school facilities including its IT labs, gym and playground. A brief visit to the career centre promoted an improved unemployment rate and the working future of many Drvarskans to come.
The final destination of the President was at Tobruk Naval Base where it housed the headquarters of the ‘Nord’ fleet. It was well into the evening when the President was flown by a Ka-60 transport helicopter onto the DSS ‘Ivan Vasilevsky’ Kuznetsov Aircraft Carrer where he will spend the night, and to analyse the fleet’s progress over the next two days before heading back to West Africa.

[Drvarska]

The Federation of Drvarska

To: The Kingdom of Helissa
From: President Vladimir Orlov, The Federation of Drvarska

On behalf of the Federation of Drvarska and myself, it is our pleasure to extend our greetings to our Western neighbor in North Africa. We wish to welcome your nation with open arms and grant your people visas to be guests of the Federation. We also wish to exchange free trade agreements and to establish embassies so our governments may communicate more openly.

Signed,

Vladimir Orlov
President
The Federation of Drvarska

[Helissa]

(Image)
The Federation of Drvarska

To: The Kingdom of Helissa
From: President Vladimir Orlov, The Federation of Drvarska

On behalf of the Federation of Drvarska and myself, it is our pleasure to extend our greetings to our Western neighbor in North Africa. We wish to welcome your nation with open arms and grant your people visas to be guests of the Federation. We also wish to exchange free trade agreements and to establish embassies so our governments may communicate more openly.

Signed,
(Image)
Vladimir Orlov
President
The Federation of Drvarska

Diplomatic Communique From:

Ministry of State

To: Vladimir Orlov, President of The Federation of Drvarska

We welcome the the Federation back on to the world stage. As our two nations European heritage is very similar we hope to use that bond to create a Africa that is economically prosperous and caught up with the rest of the world on an economic, technological, and industrial level. Through mutual cooperation this can be done through trade, economic projects, industrial development, and applied research.

At this time however in Helissa's stage of growth we cannot allow for a free trade agreement. We can however offer you a beautiful villa in our capital of Donovia for your embassy where you may station your diplomats to our nation as well as what security you deem fit. We hope this is a start to a new era in North Africa.

[signed]
Lord Minister of State Marlies, Duke of Libinthea

[Layarteb]

OOC: Could you please put some dates to your posts so we can figure out where on the timeline we are?

To say the Empire was friends with the Drvarskans when they were in Europe was to say that the Empire was friendly to the Drvarskans. The former communist nation had attracted nothing but ire from the Empire until 1992, when they suddenly adopted capitalism and democracy. The Empire for all of their efforts, moved to cooperate with and trade with the Drvarskans but the Empire never fully bought that communism was dead and buried in Drvarska, which was the same line of thinking with regards to Russia. The Drvarskans had run to the Fourth Reich to stave off collapse in those early days and the Fourth Reich was a protectorate of sorts to them. For that reason, the Empire was cooperative among others but with the demise of the Fourth Reich came uncertainty. Would they return to communism? Would they become antagonistic like the Russians were? So many questions arose.

When the Prussian Reich gobbled up what remained of the Drvarskan Federation, the Empire neither protested nor wept. It was seen as a good end to a potentially cataclysmic situation. The Empire had never trusted the Drvarskans, despite the eagerness with which the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approached the nation with trade deals and travel visas. The hope was that with enough injected Layartebian influence; the country could remain on the proper side of the capitalism versus communism debate. If they slid too far left, the Empire would simply cut its ties and run, letting the nation squander about in solitude.

It had been assumed, up until this point, that the Drvarskans were a thing of the past. The totality in which the Prussians conquered them was considered final rather than fleeting but here they were, surviving and reconsolidating themselves and their forces in, of all places, North Africa. The Empire looked towards this as potentially troublesome. An airfield in Algeria, two airfields in the Sinai, and control over the Suez Canal was what the Empire had on the table with concern to North Africa and it wasn't giving any of them up for anyone.

Their rise, though it might have been masked as just a continuation from where they left off, didn't win over many people within the Empire's government. If they were to join with the Helissans, they could form a power bloc of significance to become a thorn in the Empire's side concerning its airfields and the Suez Canal. The Empire had a lot of cards to play here with the Drvarskans and likely put, it would move to one of its oldest friends, the New African Republic. For whatever differences the two nations had, Drvarska's new borders did no favors to the Africans and though they lacked the foreign policy to approach the situation with hostile intent, they certainly had the sway of economic dominance. North Africa was, to them, their backyard and they, like many other nationalists in the world, were loathe having anyone else come in and take a piece of it away. The Africans had put up a formidable resistance against Manchurian Global when it came to grabbing the Suez Canal and using the same methodology, they could resist Drvarska on a more level front.

The Empire wasn't looking to pick up the NAR and fling it at Drvarska either. That would serve no one's benefit. What differences the Empire had with the NAR and what action that resulted in was always covert, small-scale, and limited in its scope. The Empire wasn't out to cause the complete dissolution or ruin of the NAR and vice versa. Eritrea, Somalia, and Ethiopia were examples of the Empire's actions against the NAR, and none of those actions would decimate the country and if they gained too much momentum where that could become a problem, then the Empire would put an immediate cessation to them. The NAR was a friend to the Empire and vice versa, despite all of the hatred shared behind quietly closed and subdued doors.

As it stood now, the Empire would set its wheels in motion, ever careful to the role that the Helissans played. Despite being small and still underpowered, they were a major driving force. Underestimating them would be counterproductive and arrogant. The Empire wasn't into either.

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OFFICIAL DIPLOMATIC COMMUNIQUE

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MESSAGE TEXT

ENCRYPTED

PAGE 01 LAYARTEB CITY 2013020089 0201100R

P 0201100R
FM EMPIRE OF LAYARTEB, OFFICE OF THE EMPEROR
TO NEW AFRICAN REPUBLIC, OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
INFO MOD, MOFA, MOI

TAGS: DEF, FR, INT
SUBJECT: DRVARSKA

PASS MOD, MOFA, MOI

FOR APPLICABLE CLEARANCE ONLY

---

ENCRYPTED

PAGE 02 LAYARTEB CITY 2013020089 0201100R

PRESIDENT SAMUEL BRIDDICK,

THE EMPIRE SHARES GREAT CONCERN WITH THE RISE AND SOLIDIFICATION OF YOUR NORTHERN NEIGHBOR, THE DRVARSKANS. THE EMPIRE IS NOT DESIROUS OF THEIR RETURN TO POWER AND WE ASSUME NEITHER ARE YOU.

I WISH TO ESTABLISH A MEETING BETWEEN YOURSELF AND MYSELF CONCERNING A JOINT POLICY TOWARDS THIS SITUATION. THE EMPIRE IS NOT LOOKING TO GO TO WAR BUT WE ARE NOT LOOKING TO TREAT THIS SITUATION LIGHTLY. THE INSTABILITY OF NORTHERN AFRICA REMAINS A GREAT CONCERN TO THE EMPIRE.

THE EMPEROR OF LAYARTEB

---

MESSAGE STOP

[United States of Brink]

Response – Official
Message Clearance – ADDP33120Z
ALERT – NU

Office of the President
New African Republic

Message Reply

A meeting would be prudent. Please advise as to the details.

Samuel Briddick
President, New African Republic

[Layarteb]

The favorable response from the New African Republic was something that the Emperor was pleased to see and he read the terse reply only minutes after it had come through the secure network and completed the arduous but necessary decryption phase. "Wonderful," he said aloud to no one but himself. He had a plan already brewing and for this to work, it had to have the perfect guise. "Minister," he said after getting connected to the Minister of Commerce. "I need a smokescreen in Recife." Recife was the capital of the Colony of Denmad, now the Republic of Denmad and it was one of the Empire's special economic zones. As such, it was the perfect place for a meeting with the New African Republic, considering its strategic location to both Layarteb City and Windhoek. "Yes, I must meet with President Briddick on non-commerce matters at a commerce meeting. Thank you."

The meeting would be set quickly and for Tuesday, January 22. Under the guise of a new economic agreement concerning free trade, President Briddick would fly to Recife and the Emperor would do the same. There, they could present to the world a very plausible explanation for a meeting that had nothing to do with free trade. Economists would wonder but, given Denmad's new status as a Republic, as just announced, few could argue with the cover story.

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OFFICIAL DIPLOMATIC COMMUNIQUE

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MESSAGE TEXT

ENCRYPTED

PAGE 01 LAYARTEB CITY 2013020146 0201300R

P 0201300R
FM EMPIRE OF LAYARTEB, OFFICE OF THE EMPEROR
TO NEW AFRICAN REPUBLIC, OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
INFO MOD, MOFA, MOI

TAGS: DEF, FR, INT
SUBJECT: DRVARSKA

PASS MOD, MOFA, MOI

FOR APPLICABLE CLEARANCE ONLY

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ENCRYPTED

PAGE 02 LAYARTEB CITY 2013020146 0201300R

PRESIDENT SAMUEL BRIDDICK,

MEETING SET. TUESDAY, JANUARY 22. RECIFE CAPITOL BUILDING. 1000P.

COVER IS COMMERCE MEETING - ADVISE PUBLIC OF FREE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH NEW REPUBLIC OF DENMAD.

THE EMPEROR OF LAYARTEB

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MESSAGE STOP

[Drvarska]

DSS ‘Ivan Vasilevsky’ Kuznetsov Aircraft Carrier
Tobruk, Libya
January 22nd 2013

The President stepped out onto the deck of the carrier, the chilled breeze of the morning sea air was a welcoming start to the day. Around him, flight crews hurried around securing aircraft for a routine patrol mission along the Helissan and Egyptian borders. He was escorted to one of the stealth multi-role fighters, a Sukhoi PAK-FA which has slowly been introduced into the Federation Air Force to replace the MiG-29 that has been in service since 1983. After a brief introduction to the avionics, capability and armament of the fighter, the pilots began to taxi onto the ramp. It was a fast process as eight fighters were propelled off the carrier into the skies above the sea to carry out their patrol missions in groups of two. Impressed with the demonstration, the President was shown around the rest of the carrier and preceded to another conference room to discuss further matters of foreign relations. Upon entering the room was Admiral Greogr Artsky, commander of the DSS ‘Ivan Vasilevsky’ to greet the President along with the rest of his staff and advisors. The room itself was similar to that of the Presidential House back in Drvarska’s native capital Drvar in Serbia. The interior walls were of dark oak panelling, disguising the metallic grey walls of the ship even though hints of communication devices and pipes lurked in the corners. The President sat down at the head of the large table integrated with flat screens, often used for briefing pilots before flight missions but now used as visual aids for the guests. The meeting commenced as the Foreign Minister introduced important matters of current affairs.

“Mr. President, we have received positive feedback from the Kingdom of Helissa offering to exchange embassies and open up relations for mutual trade, economic projects, research and industrial developments. However, due to their stage of economic growth, a free trade agreement cannot yet be established. We have a good foundation for future development and mutual friendship with our North African neighbour.”

The President agreed as he drew a cigarette from a pack, which sat idly on the table. He quit smoking once before when his wife gave birth to his first child back when Drvarska was at home in Eastern Europe, only to break the rule to have a rarely celebrated cigar. However, the habit had started up again since the collapse of Drvarska back in 2009. Once lit, he began to speak.

“This is indeed good news, our intentions is to maintain stability and peace in this continent and bring together a population that has long seen corruption, war and insecurity - into a united Federation and African alliance. Start addressing our next priorities for infrastructure; assess what can be done to increase the living conditions of the Libyan people and how this can both benefit the Helissans and ourselves. We need to start sending messages to fellow nations of this continent to promote our intentions, and to ensure the stability of the region our exiled people have inhabited.”

“Yes sir, this can be done. Next, the matter of Eastern Europe. We have no choice but to state that we condemn the existence of the Olmerians throughout the region, the Byzantine-Spanish Empire in our capital state and the Russian Union State for occupying Moldova and the Crimea. Already, drafts are drawn up to send diplomatic messages to notify them of our motive.”

Having butted out his cigarette, Orlov acknowledged the Foreign Minister and turned to his Chief of Intelligence.

“What is the status of Operation ‘Knight’s Move’ Tomislav?”

“Trained, equipped and briefed. Ready to go on a moment’s notice, Mr. President.”

“Good. We will decide when that will be necessary depending on their opening move.”

The meeting digressed into more agendas of national importance for Libya. New plans were made to establish an embassy with The Kingdom of Helissa. The acceptance of a villa was most welcome and a list was made of thirty diplomatic personnel and eight military police officers to be stationed there with Ambassador Josef Schwarz as a representative to the Kingdom. The meeting concluded as details were finalised by the Secretary. The President and Ministers had been escorted back down to the flight deck where transport aircraft were awaiting them. Orlov gazed up at the sky as fighters rushed overhead, the sound rang through his ears and now knows why everyone walked around with ear protection – a day without that, one surely would be deaf by now. Three Ka-60 Kasatka transport helicopters were waiting for the president and other members of the cabinet, its rotors droned out the shouts of the orders from personnel walking nearby. The President boarded his own craft where he was seated next to the window and given a communication headset. Once everyone was boarded to their allocated craft, the Ka-60 lifted off the deck and headed for Tobruk International Airport, flanked by two escort Mil-24M Attack Helicopters. After ten minutes, the pilot cracked over the headset to the President.

“We are passing over Tobruk city now, sir.”

The President glanced out the window of the Kastaka down to the streets of Tobruk. Many pedestrians crowded the roads avoiding the various construction projects that engulfed the city - building schools, hospitals and public service infrastructure. After touching down at the airport, the President was escorted back to the Il-96-300 where a crowd and news crews greeted him. He was the last to go aboard the Presidential plane back to Accra, Ghana. Climbing the stairs, he turned around and waved to the people who once again cheered and shouted patriotic slogans.

[Drvarska]

The Federation of Drvarska

To: The New African Republic
From: President Vladimir Orlov, The Federation of Drvarska

With the establishment of our newly reformed government, The Federation of Drvarska and myself wishes to open up foreign relations with The New African Republic. We extend an invitation to our Eastern Neighbors in West Africa for peaceful co-existence and to promote unity in this continent that has long seen a period of instability. We also offer to open up trade relations, visas and exchange embassies to commence our road for economic and social prosperity.

Signed,

Vladimir Orlov
President
The Federation of Drvarska

[United States of Brink]

The arrangements had been book, the official announcements made and none were the wiser. Of course there was speculation; it was an unscheduled trade meeting. Briddick’s schedule was generally booked well in advance so this detour to Denmad came as a bit of a surprise to many. Nevertheless the Empire was the Republic’s largest trading partner so these sorts of meetings were not uncommon.

Briddick, himself, was a bit skeptical of the meeting. The Republic hardly made forays into the European theater of politics, especially compared to the scale that the Empire did. He had little information regarding this former European republic. Its recent seizure of African soil, however, had brought it to the forefront of Republican affairs. In light of that he had become eager for this meeting with the Emperor, wanting to hear what the Empire had to say regarding the new government. Of course, as was always the case, whatever the Emperor had to say would be taken with a grain of salt. Despite a close relationship with the Empire, the two nations were out for themselves first and foremost, and this meeting would likely prove that point.

From the tone of the message Briddick, along with Windhoek, had assumed the Empire was not pleased we the reemergence of Drvarska. The relationship between the Republic and Drvarska, unbeknownst the Drvarska, had begun on a bad footing as well. The Republic quickly saw through the façade of democracy Drvarska claimed and watched a buildup of military forces, forces that certainly couldn’t be afforded this early into their rule, especially considering they had yet to legitimize their claim. That was probably the most troubling of all, their failure to acknowledge the local population. Simply planting a flag in the ground was not going to do the trick.

[United States of Brink]

Response – Official
Message Clearance – PRP0012587Z
Message To: Office of President | Drvarska Republic
ALERT – NU

Office of the President
New African Republic

Message Reply

The President, Samuel Briddick, is currently in Recife, Denmad, Layarteb conducting trade talks with the Emperor of Layarteb. Upon his return we request your presence in Windhoek to discuss relations between the two nations.

Office of the President
New African Republic

[Layarteb]

January 22, 2012 - 10:00 hrs [UTC-3]
Recife, Pernambuco
Capitol Building of the Republic of Denmad
(8° 3' 23" S, 34° 52' 41" W)

The Emperor had chosen Recife's capitol building because of its location and because of its significance to the Empire's commitment to trade. As a special economic zone, the Colony of Denmad had focused its trade out of this building and the Republic of Denmad would do the same. Located right on the waterfront along Aurora Road, the building's upper floors had an otherwise unobstructed view of the South Atlantic Ocean. It was an ideal location and President Briddick and his men were ushered into an upper floor not so much for its view but for its seclusion. Up here, on the second highest floor, the Emperor and President Briddick could meet in private with no interruption and discuss this Drvarskan situation.

After what pleasantries needed to be done, the Emperor and President Briddick retired for their private discussion. Liquid and solid refreshment was laid out on trays in the comfortable conference room and a running air conditioner kept the climate at a cool 70°F with low humidity. As the Emperor sat down, he loosened his tie, getting a bit more comfortable for what he hoped was going to be a more informal than formal discussion. "Again, thank you for coming on such short notice. I do believe that our two nations view Drvarska with the same level of suspicion. What farce they pretend to call democracy is nothing more than a thinly veiled sham. The Empire didn't care much for their presence on Europe, despite our eagerness to trade and cooperate with them, and certainly, we don't care much for their presence in Northern Africa. They present a clear and present danger to, above all things, the Suez Canal, and what efforts we have had there in trying to assist the former territories of the Hirgizstanian Commonwealth.

"If I could, given that our take on the situation is rather obvious, how the NAR stands to reason with this nation and its aggressive policies?"

[Drvarska]

OOC: Drvarska is a Federation, Brink.
IC:

The Federation of Drvarska

To: The Office of the President, The New African Republic
From: President Vladimir Orlov, The Federation of Drvarska

I look forward to our meeting. It is vital to discuss our peaceful intentions with the N.A.R. and how we can aim to have a prosperous and stable future.

Signed,

Vladimir Orlov
President
The Federation of Drvarska

[Drvarska]

The Federation of Drvarska

To: The Emperor of Layarteb, The Empire of Layarteb
From: President Vladimir Orlov, The Federation of Drvarska

It is with great pride to announce the re-establishment of The Federation of Drvarska this year, and to renew ourselves to the world. I wish to send a good message of peace to the Empire of Layarteb that had once been a good and powerful friend to the former-Drvarskan Federation in Eastern Europe. We wish to extend to you an invitation to establish trade relations, visas and embassy exchange so that our governments may co-operate easier and peacefully co-exist. We are open to discuss any matters of the intentions or affairs that concern you of the Drvarskan Federation.

Signed,

Vladimir Orlov
President
The Federation of Drvarska

[United States of Brink]

Briddick took a moment, stared outside across the majestic blue of the Atlantic Ocean.

“You know, I don’t think I’d ever get used to looking at it from this side, the ocean that is.”

He turned, faced the Emperor, studied the man. Briddick wasn’t particularly fond of him but had no personal reason to dislike him. It was more his distrust of the Empire, which was ironic considering he was a native of the Empire, having grown up in England during their occupation of the Island.

Still, business was business and the Empire was inherently tied to the Republic. It was, if nothing else, a symbiotic relationship which saw no end in sight. It was to the benefit of the world, and the Republic to a smaller degree, that the two nations work together. So Briddick was here, sitting across the table from the most powerful man in the world.

“We, perhaps embarrassingly, do not have that much information on the reborn Federation. European affairs remain foreign to us; there are enough worries on our own continent. Of course, their problems often become ours, as is the case in this scenario. Truthfully we’ve developed a system, a rules of engagement if you will, regarding these situations and that is to let it die of natural causes. I am sure I do not have to lecture you on the comings and goings of North African nations. Our intelligence network on the ground suggests this nation is no different than any other that has tried to stake claim to the northern regions of our continent. Conservative estimates put its collapse within a year. The only thing that’ll change is the body count.”

He stopped for a moment, had let his cynicism surface.

He continued, “They’ve staked a claim in a land already established, where a government, though weak, already exists. They’ve taken to solidifying a military first, an obvious red flag and I don’t mean in a threatening way. People will never learn, African can only be conquered through money, not war.

“They have reached out to us already; I am to meet with their ‘President’ when I return from this trip.”

[Layarteb]

January 22, 2012
Recife, Pernambuco
Capitol Building of the Republic of Denmad
(8° 3' 23" S, 34° 52' 41" W)

"I agree Mister President, money is the best weapon in Africa," the Emperor said, knowing what bombs versus money had done throughout the continent. He also knew what bombs did in Ethiopia, which proved that money solved Africa's problems, not bombs. "The Empire has a profound lack of information on the Drvarskans too. Their re-rise to power came as a shock to our intelligence circles as I am sure it came to yours. I must admit, embarrassingly, that we simply did not predict this coming.

"That, as I am sure you can guess, is another worry to us. Intelligence on nations such as Drvarska is crucial. However, I do not believe I share the same cynicism as you have towards their inevitable demise. One year seems painfully soon unless there is future, military action that I do not know about. That their military was their first endeavor tells me that they are looking to expand more than anything does. Expansion breeds instability but the face of North Africa today is not the face of Eastern Europe yesterday.

"Outside of the Amigardians and the NAR, there is no one regionally to oppose the Drvarskans," the Emperor said before taking a momentary pause. "What concerns me the most is likely what concerns you the least, expansion into Europe.

"The Drvarskans have little love for the Olmerians who are a strong ally to the Empire. If they make antagonistic moves against the Olmerians, we will likely respond in kind. The situation in France, the situation in Luxembourg, and growing instability elsewhere just reeks of disaster in the making. The last thing we need is for it to spill into Africa, where instability in Eritrea and Ethiopia remains quite enough. Any more would just tip the scales unfavorably in both of our directions." The Emperor smiled towards the end, adding, "And they would like to meet with my government as well. I have not issued a response yet as the communique is freshly new, having only just arrived before our meeting, but I surmise it will have to take place after yours Mister President."

[United States of Brink]

]“Expansion in Europe bothers me only because it could invoke a response against Africa, I’ve seen it before. I believe our best course of action is patience. North Africa has a way of cleansing itself. If they do prove to be a threat I am sure there are a dozen or more protocols within the Layarteb High Command to deal with it. Until then I think it smart to see what they have to say, to see what they consider mightier…the pen or the sword.”

It was a needless little monologue, the Emperor already having agreed with such a course of action. Briddick couldn’t help but think there was more to be said, some other reason for being here. It was a long flight for a short conversation. Still, it was always helpful to know where the Empire stood on global affairs, especially ones in Briddick’s on backyard.

[Terra Reborn]

Rear Admiral The Viscountess Standford, DSO, DSC, KSS,
The Devil’s Tower, Gibraltar
European Territories of the Apilonian Empire
Wednesday 23rd January 2013, 0900hrs Local Time (0100hrs Imperial Capital Time, 0800hrs Zulu Time)

The Devil’s Tower Camp had been expanded since the Imperial annexation as it was now duel-hatted as both the headquarters of the Imperial forces on Gibraltar but also, perhaps more importantly, the headquarters of the Imperial Mediterranean Fleet. What wasn’t widely known was that the Devil’s Tower was also the entrance to a complex of underground tunnels and bunkers that were intended to serve as the command centre for all Imperial operations within the European and North African area of operations, for which the Commander-in-Chief, Imperial Mediterranean Fleet, was duel-hatted at this point. The bunkers also linked into the series of tunnels that ran under and around the Rock of Gibraltar itself, which were older although they had been upgraded recently, intended for the defence of the enclave if any attack came. As it happened the above ground complex was still very busy, which given its size was a good thing, but it was below ground where all of the vital systems and facilities were emplaced, out of view and protected from pretty much anything except a nuclear bomb, ensuring that as much of the Rock as possible was capable of standing up to its famous ability to withstand siege after siege.

Gibraltar was something of a peculiarity when it came to the military chain of command, partially because the enclave was packed to the brim with Imperial military units to the extent where between the units assigned from across the Empire to their families and various investors and the like the population of Gibraltar had skyrocketed. The units actually attached to defending the Rock were organised under the auspices of Imperial Forces, Gibraltar, which included the Imperial Gibraltar Squadron which was attached from the Mediterranean Fleet. At the same time not only was the Mediterranean Fleet headquartered out of the rock but the Resolute Carrier Group was also based out of HMNB Gibraltar. This meant that although the unit assigned to the defence of the Rock was commanded by a Commodore not only was there a Rear Admiral present much of the time, who at least wasn’t the direct superior although she was the deputy fleet commander, but there was also a Vice Admiral present almost all of the time, who was the direct superior of the Commodore in question. All of which meant that when all three flag officers were present it was a jurisdictional nightmare.

Rear Admiral The Viscountess Standford was arguably the one in the most uncertain position as although she outranked Commodore William Wilson, the commanding officer of the Imperial Gibraltar Squadron, she was not his direct superior officer, rather she commanded the Resolute Battle Group, the main battle force of the Mediterranean Fleet. She was also the officer who had led the defence of Gibraltar the previous year when threatened by the Portuguese and one of the most well-known flag officers in the Imperial Navy. If it came down to an attack on Gibraltar and the Resolute was in port it would be a very difficult situation, but of course if there was going to be an attack on Gibraltar it was likely that there was a war on, in which case the Resolute was probably at sea in any case, and if there was going to be a sea attack on Gibraltar, then the chances were that the Resolute was either too far away or already sunk herself, and in the terms of a land invasion, the Resolute would be but one part of a major defensive effort, one that the joint forces commander was better equipped to deal with, and Standford was more than happy to hand over that particular duty, she’d prefer to fight a good fleet battle at sea any day.

Alice Standford smiled as she saw another flag officer approaching from the other end of the corridor.

“Sir Nicholas,” Standford smiled broadly.

“My Lady,” Rear Admiral Sir Nick Harrington smiled in return, and as usual forgoing the handshake to instead brush his lips to her hand, it was the old way of doing things, but these days it was generally considered a lot more formal, and although not necessarily the case had the potential to be flirtatious. “It’s a pleasure to see you again.”

“Likewise,” Standford replied, as normal she blushed as he kissed her hand, she knew full well that in this case the latter was actually the truth. “Unfortunately it doesn’t look like its going to be one of the easy briefings.”

“No, I rather doubt it will be, given what I’ve heard.” Harrington sighed. “In any case, do you want to grab some lunch in the city after this is all said and done, I get the impression we’ll need it.”

“I’d love to,” Standford smiled as they made their way into the briefing room.

“Admiral Standford, Admiral Harrington, good to see you again,” Vice Admiral Sir William Leach, Commander-in-Chief, Imperial Mediterranean Fleet stated with a smile from the head of the table. “Please, have a seat.”

The two Rear Admirals settled into their seats. Also present was Commodore William Wilson, Commanding Officer, Gibraltar Station and Commodore James Kincaid, Senior Officer, Rhodes Station. Colonel Sebastian Moore, senior officer of the attached army and air force units on Gibraltar and Colonel John Williamson who held the same position on Rhodes. Between the six of them they commanded all of the Imperial Forces in Portugal and the Mediterranean, which whilst not as large or powerful as other parts of the Empire it wasn’t exactly insubstantial either. The Empire had never had a particularly high level of interest in this part of the world, this had changed when the Empire had gained its current territories in the region, and that meant that to ensure their security it had to take a more proactive stance in the theatre.

“Alright people, let’s get started,” Leach said, bringing the light chattering to a stop. “I’m sure that, given the recent developments in North and West Africa the subject of our discussion today will be the Federation of Drvarska and the potential threat it poses, Admiral Standford, you were in Karin City over the week end… is there anything you can tell us?”

Standford nodded.

“Indeed I can, I spoke to the new First Lord of the Admiralty and the Foreign Secretary at the Parliamentary Club on Sunday night before I flew back, suffice it to say that this development has come totally out of left-field, and it is not yet clear how these Drvarskans managed to set themselves up in Africa following the fall of their Federation in Europe, primarily to the same rebellion that gave rise to the Federation of Lacoze,” Standford replied grimly. “Now between the fact that not only were these Drvarskans clearly bad enough to produce a rebellion, the fact that they’ll no doubt be belligerent to the Lacozens with whom we are friendly and the generally thinly-veiled totalitarian and militaristic attitude that they’ve been displaying it has been decided by the Cabinet and the King that the Federation of Drvarska is to be treated with a degree of suspicion and distrust, if not outright hostility.”

Standford paused.

“Now given that and the geographical position of the Federation of Drvarska the First Lord has clearly noted that the Mediterranean Fleet and Portugal Station would take the primary approach on the naval front, and our ground and air forces stationed out of Gibraltar and Rhodes will take the lead on the ground, no doubt supported by other assets in Portugal if required,” Standford continued. “The First Lord passed me a report prepared by the Second Sea Lord and the Office of Naval Intelligence regarding what we know about their naval capabilities, which we believe they were able to extract before their fall, how we missed all this is unclear, and obviously there will be some fairly substantial questions being asked at ONI.”

Leach frowned as Standford handed out copies of that report, all stamped with the words Secret upon them.

“And what are their estimated capabilities?” Leach asked.

“We’ve been able to get confirmed reports from HUMINT assets in Libya, assuming nothing was at sea they’ve got a pair of Admiral Kuznetsov-Class aircraft carriers and a Kirov-Class Battlecruiser and associated escort units, however we don’t think they’ve got any cruisers only destroyers and frigates as well as either patrol vessels or minesweepers,” Standford replied gesturing to the summery page of the report. “We’ve not got anything firm from the West of Africa as neither ONI, Defence Intelligence or MI6 have had much of an interest there, given its generally shithole-like status, but if the Drvarskans have managed to move military hardware down there and can garner the support of the people… it could turn into a very big potential threat.”

“And do they have the support of the population?”

“Uncertain, there are two prevailing opinions at ONI, the first is that the locals are truly thankful for the Drvarskans coming in and decreasing how much of a shit hole west Africa is, the other is that they are primarily ruling by fear and military oppression, the majority opinion is the latter,” Standford replied. “I don’t think that at this case we can assume anything about the internal situation, not until ONI and MI6 can get their act together and set up networks in the Federation.”

“What sort of diplomatic avenue are we going to be taking?” Harrington questioned.

“More than likely we’ll observe from afar and see how things progress, but we sure as hell won’t be the first to grant them recognition, but we’ll follow if someone else substantial does so,” Standford replied. “Probably establish an Embassy and the like, but we’ll still want to keep an eye on them.”

“Alright, well if we assume that we need to at least make some plans we’ll need to work on two plans, the first is to counter fleet movements by the Federation’s Mediterranean forces and another to counter their West African forces in co-operation with Atlantic Fleet,” Leach commented. “Now this will primarily be the concern of the Navy however we do have additional assets in the area, which is where you come in, Colonels, we’ll have discussions about the other matters later, alright, let’s look at the first problem, the Federation’s Mediterranean potential.”

“Well, we can fairly easily keep them bottled up in the Med and not be able to make mischief,” Commodore Wilson commented with a thoughtful expression. “If we move the Rhodes Squadron over to cover the Suez we should be able to stop them from getting out that way, and we can fairly easily prevent them from getting out here at Gibraltar through our air force craft and the shore-to-ship batteries on the Rock.”

“That doesn’t solve the problem, if the Drvarskans have got forces in West Africa then it won’t matter if we can bottle them up, any forces in the Med will no doubt focus on operations around the Med,” Harrington countered. “That would most likely be Lacoze but it could very well be Rhodes or Gibraltar, my point is that they don’t have to get out of the Med to cause trouble.”

“So if it comes down to it we’d have to take them out,” Standford commented. “Well the Saga-Class is superior to a Kirov, and we’ve got two of them, with escorts they could take out that Kirov and its escorts, as for the carriers, individually they’re less capable than the Reprisal, together they could give us some trouble, if we had to take them on I’d want to ride with at least the Defiant, and I sure wouldn’t say no to the Von Grippen and Dauntless.”

“Well we can certainly operate you with the Gibraltar Squadron, but I’m not as sure about my command,” Harrington replied. “If they’ve got substantial forces in the Atlantic we’ll need my Battleships.”

“That’s the problem, we don’t know enough about their capabilities down there,” Leach sighed. “Until we know more we can’t really start planning. At the end of the day operations on that side of the Straits is an Atlantic Fleet problem unless I hear otherwise, on that note, Admiral Harrington, I’d appreciate it if you’d keep me informed.”

“Of course, I’ll send you copies of whatever we get through in the next planning meeting at Corpus Christi, Admiral Walcott doesn’t hold as many of these things as you do,” Harrington commented with a slight smile.

“That’s because for the most part, at least up until now, the good Admiral’s area of operations has been relatively stable, unfortunately
that can’t be said for us, Europe is unstable by nature, and I fully intend to be ready,” Leach said simply. “On that note, shall we move on?”

For the most part the rest of the meeting was regular stuff. Ship and commander rotations, situation updates on the various other potential hotspots around the region. By far the most interesting was the word that either Atlantic Fleet or Mediterranean Fleet would probably be getting another carrier sometime soon. The HMS Implacable had been based out of Bahrain since it had been acquired from the Russians, serving as the only major Imperial asset West of Australia and East of Suez, but with the acquisition of the Indian Territories and the large number of naval units, including carriers, its role had become somewhat superfluous. Instead the Admiralty was planning to replace it with a standard distant station complement; a Saga-Class Battlecruiser and escorts, as it didn’t really require anything more substantial. That of course left the Implacable, a 65,000 tonne Washington-Class carrier it wasn’t up there with the supercarriers but like the Reprisal it was a versatile and capable unit that had, until the absorption of the South Indian Navy into the Imperial Navy and its seven supercarriers, been the back bone of the Imperial carrier fleet. Although it had lost this moniker it would no doubt remain a vital class in the Navy, especially for providing carriers for distant parts of the world.

Personally, being the CinC of the Mediterranean Fleet the Vice Admiral wanted it to be coming to him, but he did remind himself of two main things. The first was that the Imperial Navy only had to main bases in the area, Rhodes and Gibraltar. Rhodes was far too small to host a carrier, even with the expansions to the port it only just hosted a Battlecruiser and its escorts. Gibraltar on the other hand was large enough, but it was already home to another Carrier, the Reprisal, as well as a Battlecruiser and the combined escorts, meaning that it was simply too full to host an entire other carrier battle group. Which meant that it would likely be added to Portugal Station’s growing list of assets, and Atlantic Fleets ORBAT. But then the Portugal Station had been something of a peculiarity since its inception with the conquest of Portugal. Vice Admiral Leach was in charge of all operations in Europe and North Africa, Portugal was in Europe which arguably made the Portugal Station part of his command when operating in Europe, but it was part of Atlantic Fleet and thus under Admiral Sir Christopher Walcott’s command. Thankfully there had been no problems yet but at some point Leach needed to sit down with his counterpart and work matters out.

By the time they had finished it was just after noon.

“Ready to grab that lunch, my lady?” Harrington smiled as the two Admirals walked along the corridor heading towards the lift that would take them back to the surface.

“I am at that, I know a lovely place just down the road,” Standford smiled. “I must ask though, what do you think of all that, are we just being paranoid here.”

“Not in my opinion, everything that I’ve read on these Drvarskans gives me bad feelings, I’m fully prepared to be proved wrong but I feel its best to assume the worst sometimes,” Harrington replied. “Besides, if all this does hit the fan the last thing that any of us wants is to be caught flat footed, at least now we won’t be paralysed waiting for a decision to be made, as we’ll already have discussed it and know, at least in abstract what needs doing.”

“A fair point,” Standford nodded as they stepped out of the lift inside the Devil’s Tower building itself. “Come on, let’s get that lunch shall we?”

[Layarteb]

January 22, 2012
Recife, Pernambuco
Capitol Building of the Republic of Denmad
(8° 3' 23" S, 34° 52' 41" W)

President Briddick was no fool to Domino Theory and he was right, expansion into Europe by the Drvarskans would certainly invoke a response against their "base" as it was. No matter how much they desired for Europe to be their home once again, it wasn't any longer and if they were going to eye it as such, they were going to meet opposition. Retaliation would come against Africa and the destabilizing effect would radiate outwards and smash hard against the borders of the NAR. As much as the Emperor enjoyed seeing trouble on the NAR's borders, it was just limited to the Horn of Africa and small scale. This would be too vast and too large scale for the Emperor's pleasure. "Patience," the Emperor said, considering the word. "Patience buys the enemy as much time as it buys the friendly. Keep this in mind Mister President. I shall entertain a meeting with the Drvarskans. We have bigger and more immediate troubles in the region, what with Eritrea and Saudi Arabia and of course, Egypt. Perhaps the Drvarskans will get drawn into a conflict and become muddled down where the disenfranchisement of war will weigh heavily upon them.

"Patience it is then Mister President, I suppose this agreement then shall remain between us. I would hate to see the press to get a hold of this, especially in advance of our respective meetings.

"And since you have flown such a far way and under the auspices of a trade agreement, why not we discuss such a matter. This way you can return home and give the press their precious sound bite?" The Emperor said, knowing that any change in trade relations would be difficult, the NAR and the Empire traded just a smidgeon less freely than did the Empire and the Realm.

[United States of Brink]

Increased trade with the Empire was always a good thing, especially for the Empire. While the Realm of Cotland remained their biggest trading partner, the difference was growing increasingly smaller. The realm simply did not have the wide array of resources that the Republic could boast. It would not be long before the Realm and the Republic traded places.

However, the Republic was slowly decreasing its use of fossil fuels including petroleum. Early in its exisitance, like all developing countries, the Republic used large quantities of petroleum, coal, and other cheap sources of fuel. It was a delicate balancing act because of the country’s long standing commitment to environmental preservation and conservation. The Commonwealth was a large, and friendly, petrol state which supplied these resources for exceedingly cheap. However, as the Republic grew and modernized, it became less reliant on these sources of fuel. While that was taking place, the Commonwealth was collapsing and the majority importer for fuel became the Empire. Now, with the demand decreasing almost daily, it was forcing the Empire and the Republic to reevaluate its trade.

It was vital to maintain trade with the Empire, and vice versa, for economic prosperity. Though the two were in no danger, even when considering the decreased petrol trading, it was necessary to facilitate new agreements that would maintain the same level of profitable trade.