NationStates Jolt Archive

With the word of final surrender in Roach-Busters by a demoralised military, Sarzonian President Mike Sarzo finally could breathe a sigh of relief. One of the most emotionally draining experiences in Sarzonia's history finally was nearing its end, though the Generian menace remained.

Sarzo walked into a meeting in the Sarzonian Military Command Centre in Saugerties to witness a jubilant reaction by the braintrust in charge of the Sarzonian war plans.

"Victory at last!"

"Finally showed those bastards!"

The reactions continued for a few minutes until people were aware of Sarzo's presence.

"Yes, Mr. President?"

"First of all, congratulations ladies and gentlemen," Sarzo began, finally allowing a small smile to escape from what had been a weary, dour expression. "You planned an executed brilliantly. You all are to be commended."

More cheers interrupted Sarzo.

"But now we have to discuss plans. Congressman Weldstan looks like the best candidate and we have that report from the Pacitalian Institute for Democracy to look over."

"Understood, sir. But how are we going to divide Roach-Busters?"

"That's going to be something we'll discuss in the coming days while we get their infrastructure rebuilt. Until then, we've got a lot of work left to do. Namely, defeating Generic Empire."

All of a sudden, steely determination replaced jubilation on the faces of the military commanders. They knew the toughest part of the war was yet to be fought.

"...and why did we have to come out to Saugerties?" the young staff officer asked.

"It's honor enough to have a monthly meeting with Sarzo. So what if sometimes we have to leave the Embassy?"

"Sorry Ambassdor...I didn't mean anything by it."

Ambassador Whelan McCarthy arrived in Saugerties for his monthly meeting with President Sarzo. Usually they would only meet for a quick coffee, a five minute affair at best. McCarthy was in his fourth year as Ambassador to the Incoporated States, a rare feat for a Foreign Ministry that rotated Ambassadors every two years. He was an exception, though. McCarthy was personally involved in Sarzo's rescue from the hands of the RSTF, his arm was still stiff from the injury he received in the firefight.

Times had drastically changed since then. Hamptonshire and Sarzonia began the process of growing closer while each nation faced their own individual problems. Hamptonshire facing political uncertainty and the impending death of the Grand Duke while Sarzonia looked down the barrel of continued wars and possible economic ruin. It was in that spirit that Ambassador McCarthy came to see Sarzo today.

The Grand Duke, while handing off control of the Government to two of his most trusted aides, made it clear that assistance must be offered to the Sarzonians. They are a rightfully proud people he told McCarthy, they won't be quick to admit that they are in a bind. Offer them our help, but don't make it seem altrustic. Just give them a square deal.

McCarthy stood outside near his limo just admiring the scenery. His career had taken him to many nations and many offices; at one time he almost became Defense Minister. Now, though, he knew where he wanted to be. Some might say that he has "gone native" but he still knew where his ultimate loyalties were placed.

"The Sarzonians," the aide said as he took a cell phone from his ear, "are saying that the President is in a meeting with senior officials. They are asking us to wait."

"Tell them to take their time. We're in no hurry."

"Mr. President," a young intern asked almost apologetically.

"Yes," Sarzo asked.

"Ambassador McCarthy is here to see you."

"Oh, right." Sarzo looked at his watch nervously, as if he were running late to a doctor's appointment. "Send him in."

"Got it," the intern said in a quick, bubbly tone that Sarzo noted with discomfort. He waited expectantly for McCarthy to come in. When he did, he smiled faintly.

"Good to see you again," Sarzo said, running his left hand through his mostly brown hair as if he were trying to hide the odd strands of gray that started to appear. He extended his right hand to shake McCarthy's and said, "so what's on your mind?"

"This is just a friendly visit." McCarthy returned the handshake "I sware sometimes you act like I'm a tax collector."

The Ambassador walked across the room and sat down. His aging knees bothered him, but he didn't want to show it.

"I don't know how quite to say it Mister President, but the Foreign Ministry has been monitoring your situation. You've been quite successfull in your actions against Roach-Busters but you're stretched pretty thin. We have concerns that your economy may soon be reaching the breaking point."

McCarthy stopped. He wanted to be a blunt as possible to try to put aside any doubts Sarzo may have about his motivation but he had to be careful to not insult Sarzonia.

"While I am sure that Sarzonia can more than handle things by herself, you shouldn't forget that you have friends that can help you. Friends that a fresh and well equipped to give you the assistance that you need."

"HAHAHAHA!" Sarzo finally let loose a full-on belly laugh. He was sorely in need of a good laugh and McCarthy finally gave him one.

He thought very carefully about the words that came out of McCarthy. He was right: Sarzonia was stretched thin. Pretty much the only thing that kept the Sarzonian economy afloat was foreign arms sales, particularly from the Portland Iron Works. He realised that if it weren't for Portland and managing director and former ISN Commodore Barbara Tucker, the Sarzonian economy would have been headed toward an economic recession.

As far as the military was concerned, the army that was in Roach-Busters was well trained, but the key word there was trained. It was inexperienced in live combat no matter how many regulations and how many manuals regarding warfare Sarzonian generals studied. The Navy, as great as it was and as capable as it was of controlling the seas, needed to scale back. Deploying the many ships Sarzonia needed to protect its interests and project its power was a drain on the military's budget and on Sarzonia's men and women.

Sarzo knew that Parliament was going to ask about pulling out of Roach-Busters, but he knew it had to come when the time was right. Here McCarthy was giving him a chance to pull out and concentrate on the war in Generic Empire. He wanted to seize on the opportunity, knowing full well that he didn't want the citizens of Sarzonia believing he was the warmongering asshole the extremists in Roach-Busters and Parthians said he was.

"That sounds like a good proposal," Sarzo said. "I'm definitely willing to listen to what you have to say."

That was easy, McCarthy thought to himself.

"Well, the Royal Senate is prepared to make available several hundred billion Kroner worth of loans and grants. Most of the loans would be zero to 1.5 percent interest."

He stopped for a moment. He had something else that he could offer but it was risky. Lord Rosecrans, as Commander-General of the Royal Armed Forces, was looking for an opportunity to militarily assist the Sarzonians. Once the war ended that possiblity was out the window, but Hamptonshire could still participate in peacekeeping. The prospect would not be popular with most Hamptonians but Rosecrans, and more imporantly the Grand Duke, was convinced it was the right thing to do.

"There is something else we could offer you. If, perhaps, we were approached properly Lord Rosecrans could be persuaded to provided certain military-based assistance to the Incorporated States of Sarzonia."


[OOC: Kroner is the plural form of Krone. 1 Krone= $2 USD (approx)]

[OOC note: Strong language included. Also, the insult I'm throwing at Generic Empire is solely IC.]

Loans, Sarzo thought grimly. I don't know if I like the sound of that.

Sarzo thought carefully about McCarthy's laying the concept on the table. Sarzonians weren't a country that liked to borrow money. They barely had MasterCard or VISA credit cards in the country, and even then, those were mostly used by foreign visitors. The corporate headquarters for the Sarzonian administration of MasterCard was in a trailer.

Sarzo sighed. Getting Parliament to agree to take loans was going to be a big enough challenge. Convincing the Sarzonian public was going to be even more difficult.

"I don't know, Ambassador. Getting the Sarzonian people to accept their government going into debt to a foreign power is going to be a hard sell. We can discuss the issue and perhaps work out a tentative arrangement, but I can tell you right now that public sentiment won't be easy to overcome."

The military assistance caused Sarzo to perk his ears up, however. Despite the fact that Roach-Busters fell more easily than even the military's most optimistic planners predicted, the Generian menance was still lurking. Sarzonia would have to marshall its resources for that front of the war while the country was still behind the war.

"I am interested in your offer of military assistance. The Roach-Busterian occupation has all the makings of a quagmire, and I would rather deal with those Generian assholes and get them out of the way. How do you recommend we approach Lord Rosencrans in a way that will convince him to take us up on this proposal?"

"If your people are unsupportive, or unwilling, to turn to us for loans we can still offer you grants. The amount of grants would be capped around two hundred and fifty billion Kroner instead of the six hundred and seventy five billion Kroner the Royal Senate has authorized in a mixed Grant/Loan Package."

McCarthy knew that ordinary Sarzonians would have trouble coming to terms with the idea of their country being in debt to Hamptonshire. He thought it was odd also, if this situation would have happened but a few years before he wouldn't even have had the chance to meet privately with Sarzo.

"If you do wish to proceed with loan negotiations, Princess Anne has informed me that she would like to 'wrap up' any loose ends personally."

The Ambassador paused to listen to Sarzo. While the prospect of military assistance was firmly on the table, it was not supported by the vast majority of Hamptonians. It was hard enough to get their support for peacekeeping operations in Hamptonian Colonies, an occupation of a foreign nation would likely cause the Royal Senate to rise up in arms.

"If you are really serious about our help, Lord Rosecrans can be here in less than seven hours. He, as you know, now as the ultimate authority over nearly all questions of military use. Just tell him the truth. Hamptonian involvement may require some 'concessions' from your side, but other than that I do not see any obstacle to our involvement in this issue."

Sarzo ran over the words from McCarthy in his mind once again. The Royal Senate has authorised. It was already approved by one foreign body. That part at least might make some difference. Also, Sarzo didn't have to be good at math to realise the difference between 250 billion kroner and 675 billion kroner in terms of the impact it could have on the Sarzonian economy.

Sarzo knew that if he were to somehow authorise disclosing how bleak the economic picture was in speeches to the people, or at least to the House of Delegates, he could somehow appeal to them to convince their constituents that it was a good idea. Hell, Sarzo personally hated borrowing money and he thought it would be beneficial.

"I can pitch the idea regarding accepting the loan and grant package to the House. If I can convince the relevant committee, I might be able to convince them to buy into it," Sarzo said. "It won't be an easy task, but I think it's doable."

The irony of this very conversation was not lost on Sarzo. A number of years ago, millions of Sarzonians would rather watch their economy end up in the crapper than even consider approaching Hamptonshire for help. A few of the more extreme Delegates even made private rumblings about declaring war. But standing shoulder to shoulder with another country's soldiers on the battlefield had a unique way of bringing countries closer together that not many other methods could match. It was a reason that relations between Sarzonia and Praetonia were so close: They stood side by side in numerous wars and conflicts, even ignoring alliance obligations to side with each other. Now the fruits of that evolving relationship with Hamptonshire were beginning to emerge.

"As far as Lord Rosencrans is concerned, the sooner I can talk to him and discuss matters with him, the better," Sarzo said. "I realise it's going to be a tough sell for Hamptonians to get them to support peacekeeping forces in that part of the world, particularly with other threats that may be more pressing to them. But the sooner we start, the sooner we are able to begin to get done what we want done."

McCarthy was relieved, to say that least, over Sarzo's reception to the loans and grants. To the Sarzonians it would allow their economy to float for at least another two or three years. Hamptonshire would not only benefit from increasing good will from Sarzonia but the multi-hundred billion kroner loans would allow the Hamptonian money supply to increase without rampant inflation. Everyone would walk away a winner.

"I'll get on this right away. If you also feel it necessary, I get can the Vicereine and the Acting Finance Minister here with Lord Rosecrans. The loans and grants might be an easier sell to your Congress and the Sarzonian People if it is coupled with Hamptonian military aide."

The Ambassador stood up and straighted his suit. "If I may have your leave, I should contact the appropriate people immediately. I suspect that you, Mister President, have quite a few things to discuss with your cabinet and other government leaders before Lord Rosecrans and the others arrive."

Sarzo nodded.

"Of course, Ambassador. They're more than welcome to come and explain matters to Parliament. And you're definitely welcome to contact the appropriate people so they can make their arrangements."

The economic picture in Sarzonia was bleak, at least at that moment, but with this infusion of money, Sarzo expected it to allow the country to ride out the storm and return the country to economic prosperity.Taking the pressure of singlehandedly propping up the staggering economy for the country off the hands of the Portland Iron Works would also benefit the company.

As far as the military was concerned, an increase in the naval presence in the Black Sea was what military planners expected was needed to break the Generian front open. It also would allow a heavily taxed military to get a bit of a breather in a one front war as opposed to having to fight a two front war. All the ingenuity of the Portland Iron Works, the steadily improving Avalon Aerospace Corporation, and the newly-established Incorporated Ordnance Company wasn't going to make a lick of difference if the economy collapsed, and it was in danger of doing that if Sarzonia didn't pull out of Roach-Busters soon.

"Yes, you're right. I have quite the sales job to perform on the House and the Cabinet. May fortune favour us both."

Prince Elector Frederick IV Royal Air Force Base

The War Room deep beneath the earth was buzzing with activity. Flag Officers from all five branches of the Royal Armed Forces hurried about, trying to get a handle on of a dozen operations involving the RAF across the globe. Operation Northern Guardian was stalling, sucking up vast resources, while peacekeepking efforts in Africa, Manium, and Eropid were slowing down.

Field Marshal Kepplar stood in front of a giant display screen and spoke to his fellow Chiefs of Staff. "We are in the best position we've been in for years. We can deactivate an entire addtional Army Group and still have more than enough men to fight any potential enemy."

Captain-General Kenith Winters spoke up, placing his right hand on Kepplar's shoulder. "I agree with the Field Marshal. We should take this time and retool our forces. We must strengthen the Royal Marines."

Before Kepplar could respond the Cheifs of Staff erupted into argument. Each service wanted more financing and a greater share of power. While interservice rivalries between the branches were very tame by international standards, when it came to money everyone wanted a piece of the other's pie.

Lord Rosecrans entered the War Room just as the argument began to die down.

"Let me guess," he said light heartedly, "Kirkssen wants more money for the navy and Kepplar disagrees."

"No, Winters wants more for the marines."

"Oh, forgive me. I should have known better."

Each of the six men starting laughing. The War Room quickly returned to its usual state of hurried silence.

"I've just received a message from Ambassador McCarthy, I'll be meeting the Vicereine and Bluebridge then we're off to Sarzonia. From what Whelan said, it sounds like Sarzo wants our help. I don't know how far we're going to get into this, but I want Force Depletion Reports and Deployment Schedules for a medium-term occupation force.

I don't know how long I'll be so I'm leaving Commandant Sawyer in charge. He may not be the senior officer in the Joint High Command Council, but as Commander of HomeGuard he more than fits the bill.

That is all."

The five men saluted him as Lord Rosecrans left the room.

WARNING: MATURE LANGUAGE

Now how am I going to pitch this to the House, Sarzo thought. He pored over his notes, including the bleak economic picture without the Portland Iron Works singlehandedly holding things up. The expense of the war effort continuing to supply ships with the needed ammunition to fight and the foodstuffs and medicine required to feed a people Sarzonia choked of their exports. The steady improvement of Hampto-Sarzonian relations.

All of it ran through Sarzo's mind as he ascended the steps to the room where House and Senate leadership would be assembled to sit and listen to the plan. As Sarzo entered the room to little fanfare, he opened his case and took out his laptop.

"Good afternoon gentlemen," Sarzo said. "Let's get right to it. The laptop began to project the economic figures. "This is the aid package the Hamptonian Royal Senate has authorised for us. This is what would happen if we declined the loans, which are at low or no interest."

"I hope you're not talking about taking money from those scum," House Minority Leader Chris Collins (Cons.-Woodstock) said.

"If you'd let me finish Collins," Sarzo said. "This is our economic projection with the Portland Iron Works. This is what is expected if the PIW didn't exist." He looked back at stunned faces and was direct. "If not for the Portland Iron Works singlehandedly holding up our economy, we're this close to an economic depression. It's time to swallow that famous Sarzonian pride and admit we need help."

"If you ask the bloody Hamptonians for help, I will vote no," Collins said.

"Then what do you suggest, Chris? Do you have a magic formula for us getting out of this mess?"

"Just tax the Portland Iron Works more. They can take it."

"We've already considered that. Even if we seized every cent of their revenues, we'd still be headed toward at least a recession. Look at these figures," Sarzo said, before Collins cut him off.

"I told you I'm not going to vote for this package. I don't care what you do, just don't take money from the Hamptonians."

"Where's the money going to come from? Have you worked out a magic deal with Isselmere? They're not going to be able to bail us out financially. They're already in Talzeckia thanks to our overtaxed military. The last thing they'll be able to do is bail us out. And I hope you're not talking about going to Praetonia. They've been in the same war we're in and they're spending money the way we've been."

"I've made my mind up, Mr. President," Collins said.

"Chris, get your fucking head out of your ass," Sarzo bellowed. "If this economy slips into a depression because you won't vote to take the money we need to pull ourselves out of this mess, the people will have my ass. And I'll be sure to tell the media exactly who it was who prevented us from getting the money we so desperately need. Good luck winning another political office."

Collins glared at Sarzo, but House Majority Leader Josh Williams spoke next.

"Mike, I think we've got enough votes to get this through. Now about the military pull-out," Williams began.

"Yes, what will happen is that it will take a few weeks for Hamptonian forces to be fully in place. During that time, we'll start our pullout. When the Hamptonians are fully in place, we'll be out of Roach-Busters. That is, if no one has any objections to the Hamptonians getting into the quagmire instead of our doing it," Sarzo said, fixing a steady glance at Collins.

Collins sighed. "None," he said in a half-growl.

"The Hamptonians will be along to explain the details of the aid packages, both economic and military," Sarzo said. "I'm sure they'll shed some light for you."

After a while, Sarzo finally left the room and slumped against the wall, exhausted. The next sound he heard was his cell phone.

"Sarzo," he said, not looking at the caller ID.

"Hey, it's me."

"Oh! Jay! Sorry."

"You sound tired."

"I am."

"Come back home and I'll take good care of you," he said.

"I'll be right over."

OOC: You could always take out a loan from Inkana. We even have the same Currency name as hamptonshire!

The plane ride to Sarzonia was completely uneventfull. The three principals sat in silence as the supersonic jet streaked through the air. It was only when the pilot came over the intercom, informing the passangers of their imminent arrival did someone dare to break the silence.

"I...I just have to ask this," Acting Finance Minister Bluebridge said as he put his seat belt back on, "Why the hell are we offering to go into Roach-Busters? I understand the economic assistance package, I wrote it, but for the love of God I can't see why we want to get involved in an occupation following a war we weren't even involved in."

"It's a gesture of good will. Hamptonshire needs friends if it is going to survive in the future." Princess Anne responded in a rather matter-of-fact tone.

"With all due respect Your Highness, that's just the PR line we're going to feed the people." Lord Rosecrans shifted in his seat, trying to find the seat buckle. "We are 'helping' the Sarzonians because Hamptonshire has a military that is too large, too well paid, and not occupied.

Apart from the routine colonial peacekeeping duty, the Royal Armed Forces are unoccupied. The single largest threat to a democracy is the military. That many people with that many weapons constantly surrounded by nationalist slogans reinforced nearly every waking moment of their lives is a dangling spear of our democracy. If something is not done to occupy the military's attention, we could see the installation of a military junta after the death of the Grand Duke."

He found the buckle and finally secured himself in his seat. He continued, "It's not alturism. I have to be pragmatic. The people may not support my decision but I'm willing to have the media and populace villify me rather than see a military coup take over the country that I love."

The Royal Air Force transport jet, Hamptonshire Two, began its final approach to the airport. Once on the ground the three delegates would meet up with Ambassador McCarthy and immediately head off to meet with President Sarzo.

It was an early morning. Sarzo had just awakened next to Tyler with a telltale smile on his face. He was still tired, but it was a very good tired. He looked at his watch. McCarthy and company should be here within the hour, he thought. He stood up and started to take a shower, then he got dressed. As he headed to the situation room in the basement of the Gray House, his cell phone rang.

"Sarzo."

"Lord Rosencrans, Princess Anne, and company are here to see you."

"Send them in," he said as he walked into the room and faced the Cabinet. All the Vice Presidents including the two Senior Vice Presidents were in attendance. Senate President Pro Tempore Karen Beltran, House Speaker Josh Williams, Minority Leader Collins, and other officials all were waiting as the Hamptonian delegation began to walk toward the situation room.

"Please consider this meeting highly classified," Sarzo said as the Hamptonians crossed the threshold into the room. "Ladies and gentlemen, I present you the Hamptonian delegation."

The four Hamptonians quietly entered the room, they wanted to present as non-threatening a picture as possible. Lord Rosecrans went so far as to wear a very conservative black business suit instead of his now customary military uniform. As per protocol, Ambassador McCarthy entered the room first to introduce the higher ranking government members.

The Ambassador entered the room and bowed in the direction of President Sarzo. While usually such a formality would be skipped, in the presence of the Vicereine and Commander-General, Sarzo's royal rank as a Marquess had to be observed.

"Mister President, Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents, Legislative Leaders," he said as he finished the bow, "may I introduce to you Acting Finance Minister and Governor of the Central Bank of Hamptonshire, Alan Bluebridge, Defense Minister and Commander-General of the Royal Armed Forces, Lord Phillip Rosecrans, and Her Grand Ducal Highness Princess Anne, Vicereine of the Grand Duchy."

The three introduced Hamptonians smiled and began to shake the hands of the Sarzonians in the room.

"I'd like to thank you for the opportunity to visit your fine nation once more." Princess Anne said as she shook Sarzo's hand. "The Grand Duke would have liked to come but he is, unfortunately, occupied with other matters.

"It would be best for our meeting to focus on the larger picture- if you have concerns our questions, ask and we shall answer. Lord Rosecrans and Minister Bluebridge can provide you with detailed answers, and if need be, we can also discuss alternative forms in which our aide can be manifest.

Our Foreign Ministries and diplomatic representatives can finish off any specific language necessary to finish this thing off once we are done here. So, what would you like to touch on first?"

Collins fidgeted in his seat. He couldn't stand Hamptonians, no matter how pleasant they came across. And he especially didn't like to see Hamptonians when Sarzonia was about to accept a loan from them. He realised his opposition to the proposal wasn't going to stand much chance. The prevailing opinion in Parliament was that something needed to be done about the economy and he understood the ramifications if Sarzo carried out his threat to expose what happened in the chambres of Parliament.

He decided for once in his life to keep his big mouth shut and let the Hamptonians pitch their economic plan. Besides, if their economic proposal was good enough, he'd take what he really wanted from the Hamptonians, a chance to pull out of a quagmire that some observers called "Sarzonia's Vietnam."

"I believe we would like to find out about the loan package first," Senior Vice President for Internal Affairs Nicole Lewis said. "That's foremost on my mind, anyway."

"I would like to find out about the military assistance you're offering," Vice President for Defense John Newman said. "If I read the notes right, this will allow us to focus on the Generian front, am I correct?"

Fairly soon, other rumblings and questions started flying until Sarzo put his hand up.

"There will be plenty of opportunity to answer any other questions you may have," Sarzo said. "But in the meantime, I think we have our first two questions, namely the details of the aid package. In particular, I think the questions are just how much is going to be charged the 1.5 percent interest and how much is no interest. We'd also like to find out terms for paying back the loans."

"As for the military assistance, we'd like the details of the insertion of Hamptonian forces so that we can follow with a corresponding withdrawal of our own forces from Roach-Busters." I've given a briefing to the Cabinet and the House, but I believe the details are best given from the mouths of those who have arranged this package."

Acting Finance Minister Bluebridge looked over to the Vicereine, she gave him the nod to speak.

"The entire Economic Stimulation Aide Package is valued at 675 billion kroner. The first 250 billion will be immediately released in grants, the next 250 billion will be made available as zero percent interest 50 year loans, the final 175 billion will be at the 1.5 percent interest rate. Payment would be over a 35 year period."

Bluebridge adjusted his glasses and flipped through a legal pad, trying to find his notes on this matter.

"As for the method of repayment, we've worked this out so that in addition to direct payments, your government can purchase Hamptonian treasury bonds. Once the bonds mature, you just sign them over to us. If current interest and yield rates hold the bond payment plan could save you billions of kroner in interest."

Bluebridge looked over to Lord Rosecrans. The Commander-General took a deep breath, collected his thoughts, and began to answer the question before him.

"The Royal Armed Forces are ready for immediate deployment to Roach-Busters. Within four days a 25,000 man strong Marine Expeditionary Force can arrive to begin to relieve Sarzonian occupation forces. Over the next three weeks 350,000 National Guard and Reserve Corps soldiers and 75,000 Royal Police officers will arrive to replace Sarzonian units. In that same time frame, the Royal Navy will be able to replace the ISN on a ship-to-ship basis.

Force withdrawl/replacement efforts will be coordinated by Field Marshal David Marshall. He will work with Sarzonian commanders in the area to bring Hamptonian units up just as Sarzonian units are ready to leave.

I would also like to say that should certain insurgent forces within Roach-Busters try to take advantage of this period of rotation, the RAF is ready to respond. 500,000 men and women from crack Royal Army divisions are on five day deployment alert. If they are called in, they won't mess around."

Princess Anne reached over and grabbed Lord Rosecrans' left arm. He stopped talking. She didn't want him to get too into it. "Are there any other questions?" she asked with a big smile.

Sarzo looked around the room. With Vice President for Business and Commerce Janis Hedge away from the country, the task of asking the financial questions went to Carol Weinberg, the Vice President for Budget and Finance.

"We are very intrigued in the bond proposal, especially as a way to reduce the interest payments that we otherwise would have incurred. We would be most appreciative of them."

Vice President for Naval Operations Kathy Bunhall stepped forward. She was the only military branch leader with a full seat in the Cabinet, so she was the one who would be trying to set up the particulars of the withdrawal of Sarzonian forces.

"When can you get your first ships deployed to Roach-Busters," Bunhall asked. "I believe John can arrange with Lt. General Dent for the first stages of the pulling out of our ground forces, but I'd like to settle the matter of getting our naval forces out of there as soon as possible. I recognise that doing so will be markedly easier with coalition naval forces also present, but I'd still like to make sure all my Is are dotted and all my Ts are crossed."

"Yes, have Marshall contact General Dent about the details from his end," Newman said. "We would be happy to see at least a one-for-one substitution of your forces for ours if that is possible."

Minister Bluebridge took a small stack of papers out of his briefcase. He handed them out to the Sarzonians.

"These papers outline possible repayment schedules for the ESAP Loans. As you can see the Bond Repayment Schedule would focus around low yield, 25 year Government Treasury Bonds. The repayment of the 175 billion interest bearing loan would require an investment of one hundred and seventy five billion kroner. Once the bonds mature, you would sign them over to the Government of Hamptonshire.

The 250 billion in non-interest loans can be repayed, in half, by guaranteed medium-yield Sarzonian Government Bonds. Preferrably we'd like it in 25 year bonds."

Lord Rosecrans stood up and walked behind his chair.

"The first Royal Navy squadrons, to the tune of 125 ships, would arrive with the MEF. It would take 17 days to get the six fleets necessary to replace the ISN in RB waters.

As for a ratio of substitute, we are looking at 2 Hamptonians replacing each Sarzonian...and that's a conservative figure. Field Marshal Marshall is already on a plane from Denmark, he'll be in RB to meet Lt. General Dent by the end of the day."

He paused, there was one more thing he need to ask for but it could be a touchy prospect.

"In order to ensure a smooth and safe transition, we will require access to Sarzonian intelligence and force depletion documents. It would also be best if Lieutenant General Dent would submit Sarzonian redeployment orders to Field Marshal Marshall. Since we are going to be filling the vacuum, we want to make sure that we can be where we need to be when we need to be there."

Both Senior Vice President for External Affairs Mark Lorber and Newman looked at Sarzo as Lord Rosencrans made the request. Sarzo raised an eyebrow, then sighed heavily.

"Such information is considered highly classified. Only our very closest allies even have access to such information," Sarzo said. "And none have made that request so far."

Sarzo pondered the request, realising that Hamptonshire didn't ask for every detail of Sarzonia's military capabilities. That information was classified to a point where only three men who weren't Sarzonian were given specific clearance to obtain it, but what Rosencrans asked for was a bit more than the Sarzonians were prepared to offer.

"We can discuss the details about what information you will need from us in private," Sarzo said, attempting to regain control of a situation he was concerned could jeopardize the whole deal. "I'm sure General Dent will be happy to discuss the necessary deployment scheduling and other operational matters with your Field Marshal. [OOC: I know the name's David Marshall, but Field Marshal Marshall seemed a bit funny to type. ;)]

"I ask the members of the House assembled here today to consider each item separately, rather than the package in its entirety," Sarzo said. He realised that one thing Parliament would never go for was anything that would compromise national security, and some Delegates still didn't trust Hamptonshire enough to give information that would only have been offered to Isselmere, Praetonia, or Granzi, and then only if specifically requested.

The House members in attendance nodded their ascent and waited for Sarzo's next word. "Is there anything further than matters that are best left in private?" He waited expectantly for Rosencran's reply.

"Of course we understand your position," Princess Anne said, "the issue of intelligence sharing is by its very nature delicate. However, since we were not involved in the war and invasion we cannot be truly prepared for the real situation on the ground. We are only asking for that information necessary to establish an effective Zone of Occupation. It could very well save Hamptonians lives.

We are making available to you over a trillion dollars in aide as well as the means by which you can extricate yourselves from a prolonged occupation. Is it too much to ask for if it means the life or death of Hamptonians, Sarzonians, or innocent civilians?"

The Vicereine stopped speaking and the room went silent. She wasn't sure if her words would make any impact but at least she tried. After what seemed like an eternity of silence, Lord Rosecrans decided that something needed to be said.

"Marshal Marshall will work with General Dent to make the transition as seemless as possible. He's our most experienced flag officer when it comes to international military operations.

We don't have anything further to bring up in this meeting. The Vicereine and I will be available for the rest of the day. If necessary, though, we can remain in Sarzonia for an additional thrity-six hours. The organizational mechanisms to begin the ESAP and the Occupation Force Transfer are already in place."


[OOC: I gave the Field Marshal that name specifically for the it's aural qualities.]

[OOC: LOL at the name then. :)]

"Under those circumstances, I believe it would not be a matter that requires House consent," Sarzo said. "If you'll excuse me for a moment, I will need to brief my Security Council."

Sarzo huddled with the Senior Vice Presidents and Vice President Newman.

"Well, she's saying that it only relates to the war and it's not the whole shebang that she wants," Sarzo whispered.

"That's a relief," Lewis said. "I wouldn't have liked to have seen your response if they wanted all our military secrets."

"How many shades of red are there," Newman joked, drawing subtle chuckles from the other three in the huddle. "I say we give them the report since it's not what we originally thought it was."

"Agreed," Lorber said.

"I agree," Lewis said.

"Very well," Sarzo said. If he had opposed it, he could still have derailed it right in its tracks, but as it was, Sarzo was ready to go along with the Security Council's recommendation. Sarzo looked up and addressed Princess Anne and Rosencrans specifically.

"We have agreed to share the information with you. We can transfer the necessary files by computer lap link to your laptop if you have one and then electronically send the information to Marshall.

"If you need hard copies of it, I'll have to take you to the Vault. Even Nicole doesn't have the combination for it."

While Sarzo and company talked amongst themselves, the three Hamptonians began to whisper to each other in Danish. The conversation was hushed but a single phrase was repeated several times by each person, once just loud enough for one of the Sarzonians to hear it. "Vil de opbakning os for fremtiden?"

When Sarzo came back into the room, the three stopped talking and listened to him. Princess Anne responded, "If possible I would like to have both electronic and hard copies of the intelligence data. The electronic data will be immediately sent to theatre commanders while hard copies will be examined by the Intelligence Ministry."

Minister Bluebridge walked up to Lord Rosecrans and whispered something in his ear. It was an odd scene since the Defense Minister was over a foot taller than the Finance Minister.

"Mister President," Lord Rosecrans said, "the Vicereine will have to accompany you alone. Minister Bluebridge must return to Obsidia and I have to contact the Joint High Command Council. Since this matter is equally sensitive to both our Government, I would like to ask to use a secure communications room to contact my people."

"Very well," Sarzo said. He turned to Lewis.

"Take him to the Compound."

"Got it, Mike." Nicole then led Lord Rosencrans to the secure location where members of the Sarzonian government could conduct top-secret business with foreign governments. She took along two members of the secret service just to ensure that nothing happened.

Meanwhile, Sarzo led Princess Anne to the Vault, which was in the deepest basement in the building. It was the only room that was accessible to the Gray House and only Sarzo knew the full combination. Just to make sure that he didn't inadvertently give it away, he stood so as to shield his hands from Princess Anne. It wasn't that he didn't trust the Princess, but he made sure to take care of every precaution. It was part of his very nature.

When the doors opened, Sarzo led Princess Anne inside. Besides Sarzo himself, only Lewis and Newman had previously been in this room. None of the other government officials past or present were here. Now Princess Anne was the first foreigner to cross that threshold.

Sarzo worked the combination lock that kept printouts of the requested infromation securely locked away. It was there in triplicate, so Sarzo handed Princess Anne two of the copies. One would remain under lock and key in the Vault. Following that, Sarzo fired up the computer and typed in the password that brought him into the secure network. From there, he followed a command path that took him and Sarzonia's best and brightest IT minds weeks to configure and memorize to the files in question. He typed a series of commands that set up the datalink with the Hamptonian network.

He clicked send when he received the protocols from Princess Anne.

"There you go," Sarzo said. "Now our work here is done."

[OOC: If you want to do any "cleanup" posts, you're welcome to, but we can just say that everything's taken care of and we can now go to news posts.]

"Very well," Sarzo said. He turned to Lewis.

"Take him to the Compound."

"Got it, Mike." Nicole then led Lord Rosencrans to the secure location where members of the Sarzonian government could conduct top-secret business with foreign governments. She took along two members of the secret service just to ensure that nothing happened.

Meanwhile, Sarzo led Princess Anne to the Vault, which was in the deepest basement in the building. It was the only room that was accessible to the Gray House and only Sarzo knew the full combination. Just to make sure that he didn't inadvertently give it away, he stood so as to shield his hands from Princess Anne. It wasn't that he didn't trust the Princess, but he made sure to take care of every precaution. It was part of his very nature.

When the doors opened, Sarzo led Princess Anne inside. Besides Sarzo himself, only Lewis and Newman had previously been in this room. None of the other government officials past or present were here. Now Princess Anne was the first foreigner to cross that threshold.

Sarzo worked the combination lock that kept printouts of the requested infromation securely locked away. It was there in triplicate, so Sarzo handed Princess Anne two of the copies. One would remain under lock and key in the Vault. Following that, Sarzo fired up the computer and typed in the password that brought him into the secure network. From there, he followed a command path that took him and Sarzonia's best and brightest IT minds weeks to configure and memorize to the files in question. He typed a series of commands that set up the datalink with the Hamptonian network.

He clicked send when he received the protocols from Princess Anne.

"There you go," Sarzo said. "Now our work here is done."

[OOC: If you want to do any "cleanup" posts, you're welcome to, but we can just say that everything's taken care of and we can now go to news posts.]


[OOC: You can get the news thread up at your pleasure. I may decide to write up a final post for this thread but it isn't anything crucial to the story.

Write away.]