NationStates Jolt Archive

The Stoddenian helicopter sat on the Anathros' landing pad, its rotors slowly reducing speed as its engines shut down. Two imperial soldiers stood watching at the side as the President of Stoddenia and his guards headed towards them.

Thank you for this opportunity to meet with your Nation. Shall we proceed?

“Certainly, sir. This way.”

The soldiers led the Stoddenian delegation into the ship and up through several passageways. Arriving at the bridge, the door was opened and the delegation was allowed to enter.

The Emperor stood looking at the main window, but as the President entered he turned to face him.

“Welcome. I am Emperor Balor. With your permission we would appreciate a few days to dock in your ports and resupply.”

We cannot allow your ship of war to dock in the Port at Oatmeal City, but we have a mass supply of petroleum. We will permit you to dock just inside national waters, aproximately 120 miles off our coast, and we will bring a super tanker out to your ship to preform a complete resupply. In the meanwhile, your sailors, of course will be permitted to come ashore, unarmed and at liberty, to enjoy R&R in our second city, Oatmeal City. I am sure your personnel will find all the convieniences they are accustomed to; the previous regime put half of the national economy into building this port as the ultra-modern port it is today. If you would like you may also send a small armed detatchment ashore to ensure the safety of your personnel.

In the meanwhile, if yourself, or your representative would like to discuss international affairs with me, we can do this either in the comfort of Oatmeal City, which we will approach by air, or we can talk here. I am fine with any accomodations you would provide.

“Understandable. The fleet will remain outside the limit that you ask. We would appreciate a full re-supply, though our ships are nuclear powered so fuel won’t be necessary, however we did replace some of our food stock with extra weapons for the attack on Torontia, so are in need of more now. You will be paid for your troubles of course.”

The Emperor smiled, “Some R&R would be good too. We should arrive at your nation in the next few hours, so until then we can begin discussion here.”

He led the Presidents party into the next room, the bridge’s common room, where they could sit and talk.

“So, what is your nation looking for in establishing relations with us?”

Emperor, you are welcomed to bring your fleet to just within 120 miles of our coast, which is the edge of our territorial waters. The supply ships are already enroute, and will rendezvous with your fleet upon entering our national waters. Additionally, the transport ships are also enroute with the supply vessels.

On to diplomatic relations. We are interested in establishing relationships with nations in the world. It is the peaceful method to developing legitimacy. We are also interested in expanding markets for our exports. We are a self sufficient nation, but for the most part, we lack the diversity of consumer goods found in many other nations, even those of our size. As you can see from our Factbook/ Wiki entry, we export far more than we import, but as I said, a variety of consumer goods can be used to balance the trade from the strategic and consumer exports we provide. As the Government monopolizes all industry, we can guarentee whatever amount of supplies you would require, within the limits of our economy, of course.

Likewise, we would like to provide you the opportunity to establish a military mission near our port. The terms of this will be left to negotiation, of course, but we have an excellent location picked out for military missions of foreign nations, at the Port Stoddenia Village. It is a newer area, but it has port facilities that should be able to handle at least one capital ship of Cruiser size and smaller, dry dock facilities (under agreement with Stoddenia) and plenty of land for development of a military airstrip. Additionally, there are barracks and a command bunker there, as well as a rather large impact area for training. Lastly, a recent extension of the Capital Road runs through this village. We would be willing to negotiate lease of a portion of this area to you for the purposes of establishing a strategic outpost Directly outside our main port. We would even be willing to negotiate the lease on an exclusive basis, but only after an extended period of excellent relations between our two countries.

Lastly, we would like to organize a cultural exchange between our two nations. We have some low level diplomats that would be willing to journey to your country, give speeches at your universities and professional/labor organizations, and organize an international trade symposium, which will draw nations from across the globe. We will likewise request that you reciprocate with a few lower level diplomats to our territory to perform the same functions. We can arrange a schedule that this exchange can occur, if you are interested.

This is all for now. Our proposals are on the table. *the President sits back in his chair, and awaits the Emperor's response*

“Expanded markets can only benefit a nation. The Empire too, is a completely self sufficient state, having existed in semi-isolation for the past nine hundred years, but expanded markets can only benefit a nation, so we will begin immediate trade with Stoddenia.
On the topic, I propose we adopt tax free trade, for the pure betterment of both our nations.

In regards to a military mission, that would depend upon your return expectations. I cannot permit any Stoddenian military bases to be established within the Empire, at least not until our relations have a very firm background behind them. Do you require any in return?

As for a cultural exchange, I see no reason not to participate. The Empire does not maintain a diplomatic section of government – as you may have noticed, myself or an Imperial will always carry out such negotiations. We would have to send our foreign affairs advisor - he usually deals with relations between our protectorates and the Empire, but due to the wars being fought, our top officials have taken over in coordinating with them, so he is now free. We could always send an academic team too.
Our representatives will fit whatever schedule you require.”

Very Well. As I have no idea about the exchange rate of our two currencies, lets start on the trade issue with what you would like, and what you have. We have a black market in furniture restoration in our nation for some strange reason, and it is the "tollerated" outlet for peoples' entreprenureal enterprises. Because this is so innocuous an industry, we permit it to thrive, and through the invisible hand, rather encourage it. We make just enough arrests to artificially push the price into the realm where the work is profitable and attractive, so there is an artificially enhances competition, which increases competition, and thus quality. *shrugs* This is a good place to start. Additionally we have strategic resources that could be of value to you in terms of resale that quite frankly, we have little use for. So please check out our entry in the Wiki, and you will see what commodities we have in vast quantities (obviously, our black market isn't listed there...) We also produce a number of other products... As I say, what would you like, and what do you have?

As for the military mission, we will require only a standard SOFA (status of forces agreement) and that can be negotiated by us, if you like or by my diplomatic staff, and a sum of money for the annual lease. This is a capital injections project. it requires few outlays on my part. Our people provides the land for the base, you agree to our terms, which of course, are standard, and are designed to provide both of our countries with the optimum of security provisions, you pay the lease, and obey the provisions of the SOFA, and everything is straight. This is a strategic proposal, and can only assist you in maintaining a forward position in a new part of the world, from which to better assist your allies and assult your enemies. And of course we would not think of working out similar agreements with your enemies, and would consult with those currently holding SOFA's in Stoddenia (you would be the first) before concluding new arrangements. But this would provide you with the opportunity to get some training in a foreign territory, with unique geography (most of the land around Port Stoddenia is tropical, that is some lower lying salt water marshes, jungled mountains with a fairly extensive trail system we used during the revolution, and there is an exceptional impact area available for both artillery and air craft training.) The area is not ecologically sensitive, so there is almost no prohibitions on your activities (no NBC, is all), it is well outside a major city so you wouldn't have to worry too much about civilians, and it sits on a point that is boardered by the ocean and the inlet into Oatmeal Harbour.

On the cultural exchange, how about I send my people to your country the first year. As I am sure more people are familiar with your territory than mine, I think that it would be an excellent opportunity to run a successful trade exposition, while getting our name out into the international community at the same time... Then next year, we can commit to the same thing on our soil, where people can actually come and visit the country they heard. This way, you will get the immediate benefits, and we will also benefit in the "name recognition" department.

How are these proposals?

*the President smiles, and again rocks back in his chair.* And by the way, while you cannot yet see the land, you will be coming into our national waters very soon, and our supply ships will be rendezvousing with you shortly. We can of course continue discussions in the comfort of Oatmeal City, or, if you like we can remain here.

“A black market in furniture restoration – well that’s unique at least. What the Empire is particularly interested in though is metals. Uranium, aluminum and Titanium in particular. We would be willing to enter into long term mass purchasing of these.
As for supply, we produce some of the best products across the globe, including some of the finest cars. Name what your nation would be interested in and we most likely have it.

I will accept your offer of a military base. We can negotiate the terms for this arrangement once we arrive in Oatmeal city.

And yes, I would be honored to be the first of my nation to visit your city.”

Just then a knock resounded off the door, and it opened slightly. An Imperial officer put his head through. The Emperor turned to face him.

“My Lord, we are approaching Stoddenia. Several ships are on an intercept.”
“Hold here, Captain”
“Yes Sir”

The Officer disappeared and the door shut behind.

“Anyway, the cultural exchange. Your proposal is sound. We can also make the arrangements once on land. Shall we use your helicopter?”

Well... *in a smug sort of laugh* I have recieved word that since I mentioned this "black market" it has been successfully brought within the sphere of government regulation as well. Now apparently, there is only lemon-flavored beverage manufacturing and distribution left in the private sector... The people have thoroughly revolutionized the economy, at least on the national level, and we are making progress in the defence of our nation's prosperity.

That does not change anthing as far as your government and our government are concerned. We produce no uranium, unfortunately for you, as we have no need of it or its byproducts. Aluminium and Titanium are found within our mountains in fairly significant deposits that we currently exploit. Let's see... Stoddenia can provide your government with a grand total of 75 metric tons per day of aluminium and 55 metric tons per day of Titanium, or, 27,375 metric tons and 20,075 metric tons respectively annually. While admitedly, it is not a lot, it will be a steady supply, and it is of highest quality. You, of course will provide the shipping.

Unfortunately, we have no need for automobiles. It is not that we make a good many of them, but our infrastructure does not support a large number of automobiles. Our cities have extensive masstransport, and we have one highway linking several major towns, while the rest are linked by footpath. (there are, by the way very strategic reasons for doing this...) Anyhow, so you you see, automobiles would not be needed. However, as I mentioned, we are interested in consumer goods. Television sets, futons, artwork... these types of things. Tell you what, why don't you send over a few thousand television sets, futons, washer and dryer combos, and this sort of thing a year, along with the deficit made up in convertable USD, and we'll call it a deal for the trade? As I said, I don't know the conversion rate between our currency and your, so... We'll rediscuss this trade agreement after a few years and see if any adjustments need to be made. Does that sound fair?

So... since we are within the teritorial waters of Stoddenia, I think we would be well off using the Helicopter. Again, your sailors who are not involved with the refitting may come ashore unarmed, except for a small security contingent, who will likely be acting as your shore police. Before you depart, please inform your men that while the city is extremely pleasant, the few state police that operate are ritual in the performance of their duties. They do not tollerate crime, and they are, shall we say, excessively vigilante. We have very few laws to break, but if one of your men does break a law, it will not be a happy next fifty years for him, and CERTAINLY not a good next six to eight months. It would be better if your shore police got ahold of them first. Have your men use common sense, travel in groups, and avoid becoming too intoxicated and things will be alright. *Stands and turns to leave the bridge* Shall we to the helicopter?

*The President of Stoddenia departs the bridge where he is intercepted by his security detatchment and escorted out to flight deck where the helicopter awaits. The helicopter begins to power up as they await the delegation from Yallak*

In took only a few seconds before Balor had two Imperial Guards, and the ships Captain, Daroir, ready at the helicopter. They climbed in and made themselves comfortable as the helicopter took off into the air. Below the Stoddenian supply ships moving in to dock with the fleet.

Balor, looked up from the ships below and continued his conversation with the President.

“Progress in the defence of your prosperity. What plans are you implementing?

That you can supply us with such quantities of aluminum and titanium is excellent. A shame about the uranium, but you say that you do not produce it or need it. We find that nuclear power is the cleanest type of power while still upholding a good efficiency. What type of power supply do you use? And do you have any uranium deposits at all in your nation – if you do perhaps we could arrange for a lease on the sites so we may mine them ourselves. Shipping will not be a problem.

Mass transit is good – more ecologically friendly. As for what you require in trade, that is no problem at all. Currently the Imperial Chaos Mark (our currency) is valued at 1.4008 USD. My sources inform me that your currency, the Doc, is valued at 0.00449 USD or 222.5013 Docs to a USD. (http://nseconomy.thirdgeek.com/ - this is good for finding out your budgets and currency value). For the goods we require however we would be willing to overlook the massive value difference – as the loss from this would more than be made up for by the use of the metals. As you said, we can review it later and your currency by then will probably be worth more.

Our Imperial soldiers will behave themselves, or they’ll have me to deal with let alone your police. The Empire has long banned alcohol and the smoking of anything, so they are forbidden from that even in other nations. I’ve had granted 25% of the fleet leave and this will cycle through all the crew while the talks continue. However I think that we can trust your police, and will not allow any armed soldiers into your nation. Don’t get me wrong though, they will still be supervised, so your police won’t have to do all the work.”

As the helicopter continued on, the coastline of Stoddenia appeared on the horizon.

*the President of Stoddenia looks up from the approaching coast* Very interesting to know what our Currency is valued at, Emperor. A very helpful tool indeed. I'll add that link on our business card.

*looks back toward the coast line* Ah it has been such a long time since I have seen this coast from so far out to sea. It was before the war... my grandfather used to fish these waters, and it was out here that I actually got the first lesson in my political education. You see, our nation used to be extremely corrupt, extremely capitalist, and extremely repressive. My grandfather was a small time fisherman, who fished out here three weeks out of the month, then returned home, to sell what he could and feed us with the rest... A government troller came upon his boat one day. He refused to bribe them, they shot him... It was that simple. That's how things were done in Stoddenia. *sighs rather heavily* How far we have come since then! So much has changed... *stares off toward the shore for a moment before suddenly regaining his composure* Our revolution changed everything.

That is why, as you see, our economy is in such a shape. My grandfather's death was the direct result of unchecked capitalism, finding its way into every single level of society; directly responsible for problems like racism, sexism, elitism, etc, etc, etc. Now, it is much different. While the people of Stoddenia pay on average 96% of their income in taxes, everything that is necessary for a somewhat comfortable life is free. That gives them 4% of their wages to "put away" if they like, to buy consumer goods Unlike most capitalist nations, the people of Stoddenia can afford to buy a new television every month if they like. That 4% is totally expendable, or not, if they choose. The rich pay more, of course, and the poor pay less, but the majority of the people pay a LOT less, and the very small minority pay much much more. It averages out.

In capitalist terms, however, we are an imploded failure. The people, see, they do not want for anything. They are completely free, and all laws are geared toward stopping people who seek to stop people from enjoying their freedom to the highest degree they desire... You should understand that the metals we are discussing are free, and I am merely asking for a pitance in return, something negligible, because we would like to provide our people with a higher standard of living and we can not accomplish this with raw aluminium and titanium. We would give these materials to you if you were in a worse off shape than us, and as a capitalist nation, perhaps you may not be, but your people probably are. You may have a more valuable currency than ours, but your trade deficit is higher than our entire national economy and we have ballanced trade. So I ask then which has a better economy, yes? *pours a cup of cocoa* May I offer you a cup of cocoa? It is the finest cocoa we grow in our hills. And it is the cocoa that even the poorest drink; truely a people's drink.

Now *smiles as he sips the cocoa* Onto other discussions. Please forgive me for... eh... lecturing. I am in the habit of making 6 hour long speeches on tv... *smiles* You ask about uranium. We have identified uranium within our country, but we believe it is too degraded to be of any use to anyone. Additionally, exploitation of this resource would lead to degradation of the environment, as well as make us a target of anti-proliferation folks. As you can see, it would be a tremendous mistake to even think of exploiting this resource. I don't mean to be rude, here, but I assure you, we can not allow this mineral to leave the ground where it is. We are not interested in removing it ourselves, nor are we interested in leasing it to another. I beg your apologies, but this is something we, as a neutral nation who is interested in some modicum of public health, simply cannot do.

Our energy system is a mix of renewable resources. As you may see, on the ouskirts of Oatmeal City, in the foothills, there are wind generators, that generate huge amounts of power from seabreeze. We have mills like this stationed all along the coast. They generate more than enough electricity to power our recently constructed power grid. But, as you could imagine it would be strategically stupid for our nation to rely on a system that can be so easily detroyed by a simple shore bombardment. So we have constructed water mills on all of our inland rivers, that generate power equaly to 110% of our wind generators. We also utilize geothermal power in the Partisan Mountains, because that entire range is an extinct volcano, but has a number of very fine hotsprings, and a hotspot magma dome under the entire region. Lastly, we utilize huge solar collectors in all of our valley regions, because the rain shadow created by the swift rise in the coastal range does not allow a lot of clouds to pass through these mountains, guarenteeing sunny days and moderate temperatures for the majority of the year. All of these have been constructed since our revolution opened our fronts a decade ago, and rather ironically, it was confiscated goods from the former dictatorship that paid the contracts to build them. by the time they were completed, we were in the military phase of our short revolution. As you see then, we have no need for nuclear energy, and very little need for any petrochemical form, which is why we export petroleum to the degree that we do.

Lastly, we are pleased to hear that your forces will handle themselves well. We are sure they will. Your rotation is a good idea, and you may extend on station as long as you like. As I said previously, after a significant period of excellent relations with us, you may dock in Oatmeal City directly, but as soon as you get your military mission up and running, there are, as I said, docking facilities for capital ships of cruiser size and smaller. It is a relatively short drive from there to Oatmeal City, and the road is beyond excellent.

I think that we have addressed all your concerns adequately, and we will be landing shortly. Please have your security forces keep their arms holstered and/or shouldered. The forces that will be meeting us are, shall I say, fanatical. They are the remnant of my personal guard, and are the fourteen (not including these three) who have been with the revolution since the beginning. They are also peasants, and tend not to be incredibly friendly with folks they do not know personally, especially with people of your great and respectable rank. However, they will remain stood down as long as it is clear that your men are similarly stood down.

They, your and my forces will escort us on the city bus we will take to our office in Oatmeal City. The City bus is fine to travel on, and the people who will be riding it with us will recognize our soldiers' uniforms and respect our privacy. You will see. It is the strangest thing I have ever seen. I take the bus all the time, and I don't even get asked for an autograph, though I am perhaps one of the most recognizable faces in our nation, due to our propaganda efforts during the war. But I believe that people say they rode on the bus with me so often that it's sort of getting boring to their friends... "Yeah,guess who I rode on the bus with today?" "The President?" "YEAH! How did you know?!" "I rode with him on the bus three times last week... that's nothing new..." I think people would be more surprised if they didn't see me on the bus than when they do...

*The President laughs heartily as the helicopter begins touchdown protocol*

“Killed for not giving a bribe, you couldn’t sink much lower than that. How did you gather the forces to defeat the government without being discovered?

Our nation is similar. Though the government takes 100% of income. The people don’t work for money, they work for their nation and in return we work for them and supply all necessities.
I have no objections to giving you whatever you ask for to increase the living standards of your people. You see our entire military is run on those resources, which I asked of you, and a large amount of jobs and industry is built around the manufacturing of our most advanced military equipment. Every weapon, ship and vehicle of the Empire is manufactured inside our borders – we aim for complete self-sufficiency and for a long time it has been maintained.

Do not worry about the Uranium deposit. There are several in our own nation we do not touch for the same reasons and it is this fact that has increased our trade deficit. The more larger our Empire grows, the more uranium we require, yet there are no more deposits that can be mined within Yallak. Thus we have hade to move to foreign nations for imports. Uranium is the only resource we actually buy at the moment – our one weakness in self-sufficiency. It is the strength of our government and industry that has given us the economy to allow for such large imports.

But enough of finance, we will have enough of that to deal with soon. A cup of cocoa would be great.”

Receiving the drink, the Emperor continued.

“Yallak was once built around natural power like wind and water but the population and industry has grown so large that we couldn’t afford the amount of land needed to provide the power levels required. It probably would have happened anyway though, because its depleted uranium the military needs, and so using it in nuclear reactors first and taking the depleted substance from that, made the process much easier and cheaper.

We appreciate your hospitality but it is unlikely I can stay for more than a few days. As we speak a war rages across the ocean in one of our protectorate states. Much of the fleet is deployed there to defend it and the ships with me will be needed soon. This war is also a result of capitalist corporations and their greed and corruption, and Yallak and its allies are now locked in a massive battle covering many fronts. The fleet is probably already needed, but we need supplies first and I consider beginning diplomacy with you as important. The Empire looks forward to the day when we can travel free between each other’s nations.”

As the helicopter edged closer to the ground, Balor’s guards picked up the assault rifles that rested over their laps and slung them up onto their backs.

“My men will not raise their weapons unless needed – and I’m sure that kind of situation will not arise.

Well, I’m up for a bus ride. I’ve spent much time improving the mass transit system in Yallak but I cannot remember the last time I had to ride in a bus.” The Emperor smiled, “Perhaps, by traveling with me, your citizens will have something new to talk about then.”

Emperor, in regards to how our military built the strength, it is one of those "secrets that everyone knows", so I'll tell you as well. We began as a small group, working in the cities, where our organization was targeted and decimated by government reprisals. So, what was left of us fled into the Partisan Mountains, the ones you see before you, past the city, and set up a base. There, the government were able to dismiss us as either dead or crazy hermits. But you see, these mountains, while somewhat of a challenge to defend, are nonetheless VERY strategic and VERY difficult to move forces across in large numbers. There are passes in those mountains where the wrecked equiptment of the oligarchy is strewn out for miles, because of our use of improvised weaponry. They called us bandits in those days.

But also, from that point we had access to the valleys, that we were able to enter on foot, and gradually, through a process of armed propaganda, were able to convince those valleys of the correctness of our cause. Once we had this half of the country consolidated, we were still very small at this point, but had a LOT of allies among the people out here, we turned to face the plains. At that point, we opened the hot war. We were so quick about making it to the capital, and because we were gaining the reputation we had (and here is evidence about how out of it the oligarchy was) the people there spontaneously rose against the Oligarchy in our main cities on these plains, and they (not us) stormed the capital building, arrested the leaders of the government and handed them over to us when we arrived. There were only two lives lost during the war. After the war, well, many more because people had to pay for their crimes against our people. That was not two months ago, actually. So, since our nation is now armed and all enrolled in the militia, you see, we are still at war, and will be so until egalitarianism and democracy firmly take root in this nation, and the people no longer have to defend their gains from individualistic and corrupt mindsets that so polluted this country in the past.

So you see, the propaganda was more effective than we could ever have been without it. We do not need such a large army, when our reputation gives us the appearance of a force to be reckoned with. Everything that now exists in Stoddenia, and it IS getting better, is a result of the people rising like they did and the country, as a whole, joining our movement in the mountains at the critical point, when it was necessary that they do precisely that. They did not need to be told to do so; all they had to do was watch the news reports about one of our commandantes issuing a statement to the local press saying that we were ready to attack the regime, and the people took that as their signal to liberate themselves. Ten years of insurgency, and all throughout this time, building public works with the things stolen from the Oligarchy. Two Weeks of war, and we actually win. We were just as suprised that we won as the Oligarchy... *smiles cordially*

Enough of this now. We are in Oatmeal City. *the helicopter slowly sets down in a plaza. As the President informed the Emperor, there are 14 armed guards standing ready to recieve the two heads of state. The eight men depart from the helicopter, security personnel of Stoddenia first, Security personnel of Yallak second, then The President of Stoddenia, and then Balor, the Emperor of Yallak. A Single photographer is there to take a picture, and write some notes, and a television camera follows the envoy to a podium. President "Docus" begins his comments:*

People of Stoddenia. We have returned with a guest to the country, the Emperor of Yallak. He will be trading with us, and will establish the first foreign military mission at Port Stoddenia. If anyone in this country does not approve of this agreement between our two nations, please follow the Standard Procedure, and I will be happy to meet with you in five days and explain my decisions. We welcome him into our country, and his fleet into our territorial waters. Additionally, there is the matter of the book publishing firm in Riveria. I would like to go into depth about that now, but our guest is rather pressed for time, so I will simply say that it had to be closed because it was not publishing enough anti-government material to counteract its clearly pro-government slant. Everyone in this country is aware of equal time laws, we do not have to go into this again, but I say any publishing firm that does not obey them needs to be closed down. We apologize for the 42 people we put out of work with this action, but we are already looking for new jobs for them, and will permit them all to return to the University, or go there for the first time for the 31 who did not, and recieve a new job. In the meanwhile, they will qualify for Pension 15 benefits until they are in work again... *at this point, the President is tapped on the shoulder by the barrel of one of his security personnel's rifles, as if to say "get it over with". The President acknowledges the prompt.* Anyway, we will discuss these matters further. You can do so with me, or you can watch television, one way or another, we made the right decision in this and we will stand by it unless one of you can convince me of how equal time is not a good idea. I bid you all farewell until next time...

*the envor team then leaves the podium, and the President whispers to the Emperor* Sorry about that, in this country, if you like your job, you explain why you did things to people. They are more willing to accept policy that they disagree with if they are simply treated with a bit of dignity and respect. And besides we are all equals. I just happened to be at the head of the winning faction. *the group boards a city bus, and there are one too few seats, so the President opts to stand. Banter between soldiers occurs, and soon the bus is arriving at the Hotel/ Presidential Office in Oatmeal City. The Hotel is 19 stories hig, and overlooks the harbor. The detatchment is escorted away from the bus, which leaves to complete its normal route, and into the Hotel, where everything in the lobby has been painted red.*

Very gaudy, Emperor, do you agree? We will be traveling to my office, which is a converted suite on the 4th floor of this wonderful hotel. It is not the BEST hotel in Stoddenia, but it is comfortable, and people let us alone. Our security teams will wait down here and they will have free access to the Hotel's restaurant if they like. Or they can travel around town. If you would like your capitan may accompany us. If so, I will have one of my men supply him with a rifle, so you can feel safe. Are you ready?

“Gaudy? Yes I’d have to say that it is. My question though is whatever inspired someone to paint everything red?

But yes, I am ready. A comfortable hotel is good enough for me.”

The Emperor glanced toward Captain Daroir.

“I’m sure the Captain would have no objections if I was to tell him not to attend the meeting and to go get something to eat.”

The Captain hid his smile and faked a sad looking expression.

“If you ask it My Lord, then I will”

He nodded first to the Emperor, then the President and headed away to go and tour the city. The Emperor returned his gaze to the President.

“Let's head up then”

*both heads of state enter the elevator and the security personnel stay behind. They arrive at the fourth floor and exit the elevator*

Emperor, it was a mistake of our government. We advised people to inform us of what color they think government buildings should be painted. More votes for red came in than any other color. Second place, of course was black. People thought they would vote for red in honor of our socialist revolution, but apparently few of them had been in the lobby of a hotel before and probably did not know that red makes for a scarey lobby. Oh well... you make mistakes in a democracy sometimes, but the will of the people will be heard.

*They arrive at room 416. There are no guards standing outside.* Here we are... You see, this is the second most secretive room in the entire country, and it is secured with a key lock... One must never be too seperate from the people he trusts to run the country with him. If someone wanted to break in here, he would have no problem, but then again, he would find forms, forms, and more forms. Our nation does not deal in secrets. Shall we?

*The president pulls out a key chain with what appears to be 20 keys on it. he sorts through the keys and finds the one that fits the door. It swings open and reveals a suite that has already been painted red * Augh... this red is terrible... Oh well... *the Office is simply a desk, with the Stoddenia flag standing behind it, a filing cabinet, several swivel chairs lining the walls and a door that leads to a bedroom next door, everything red or a tone of red.*

“Ah, more red – How lovely. I think perhaps another vote on the colour of decor may be in order?”

Hold on Emperor, I have to inform my Secretary of State that we have arrived. *The President picks up the Phone* Yes, get me K. Right... *he waits while the call is connected* K... This is the President... Yeah, we returned with the Emperor of Yallak. We sailed with his fleet... He has come here to finalize a treaty between our nations. But he has to head out within a few days after his ships are refitted... Well, we sort of need you down here... Very Well, have a good flight... *the President hangs up the phone*

Emperor, K. will be here within the space of 5 hours. Until then we can negotiate the SOFA. You tell me what you desire from the mission, I'll tell you what we desire from it and inform you of the limitations on your requests. From there we will negotiate it out and should have it by the time K. gets down here.

I need the following infomation before we begin: The number of forces you will send to the mission at Port Stoddenia, their quality (recruits, regulars, veteran or elite/special), vehicles and aircraft (type and quantity), nomenclature and quantity of all artillery, munitions both issued and to be used, any naval vessels, and any field and general grade officers that will be stationed, their names and ranks. Additionally, we will permit you to conduct sattalite reconnaisance legally over the district, but will ask you to refrain from doing it over the rest of our nation, not that you would see anything, but out of courtesy for our national sovereignty. *the President pulls out "FORM: SOFA and prepares to write* Additionally, we will need to know numbers and type of support units that will be stationed at the mission on a permanent basis.

Once more, let me reassure you that this is for our records. We will reserve the right to make regular inspections of the forces stationed at your mission, and any violations of the SOFA will not be tollerated, so I encourage you to be as forthcoming as possible. This is for the purposes of our national security, as well as the internal security of your mission. We will also leave open the possibility of joint training operations between your forces and our militia. I am sure there is much we can learn from one another.

If you need to use a phone to discuss this with your generals, we have plenty of time, before we need to begin thinking of finalizing the SOFA. *the President pushed the red telephone toward the Emperor with a smile* This is a normal telephone. It connects to the Hotel operator, so you'll probably need to tell her the code to your country so she can dial the number for you. She simply has my cabinet members on speed dial, so when I say "Get me K." she merely has to push one button. Obviously it won't be that easy for you. So sorry. *the President nodded and waited for the information from the Emperor.*

“Thank you. But it would probably be easier if I just used my personal communicator.”

He pulled out a black device, fairly similar to a standard radio, but still quite different.

“I will only be a minute. I must dispatch most of the fleet back to Torontia now - we have received word that the Interim governments are ready to co-operate but they need our help to remove Red Tide occupation forces.”

The Emperor began to talk into his communicator, ordering a full three quarters of the fleet back to Torontia.

“Ok. Now for the mission. If you have no objections I would like to have a standard Destroyer compliment stationed on the base: that is 12 ships with 5460 crew.
The base would only require 800 personnel and 150 guards (all regualar). Perhaps 4 SA-23 IFV’s and many standard freight trucks.
As for Air forces, maybe two squadrons of ASF-32 Joint Strike Fighters. (24 Planes and 24 pilots).
I would need to station two Squadron Leaders, an Admiral and 12 Captains on the Base. Names will become available when the ships to be sent are decided on.
On the munitions side of things – I will have a detailed list faxed through to you.

I doubt we will need satellites in the area, so that will not be a problem. It will also avoid any misunderstandings too, if we just don’t have any here.

I also understand that you would need to make inspections – any sane government would while they have foreign military stationed on their lands, but know that we will hold ourselves to the letter of the SOFA.

The Admiral will be in command of the base and will see to organizing joint operations between our forces and your own.

Are there any problems with what we ask to be placed on this mission?”

*The President scribbles down some notes on the Form SOFA that reflect what the Emperor has requested. He then goes over his notes* So, you will have aproximately 6500 troops on station with regularity, 989 of these permanently stationed on base, the rest stationed aboard their ships. For your permanetly stationed forces, we can provide 1 Squadbay type barracks, which houses 1200 soldiers, for your lower grades and for your visiting training units, and One "BEQ/BOQ" which are more like appartments. This should be more than adequate for your needs of training. Your Destroyer compliment will be composed of how many destroyers, and how many support/patrol ships?

You will also require a hangar facility for 24 planes. We can provide 2 twelve plane hangars. Be advised that our runway in Port Stoddenia is a converted air strip for private vessels, and so it may be a bit shorter than what your pilots are used to, but it should be adequate if they are able to make the appropriate speed adjustments in take off and landing.

We will prodvide an administrative building to serve as your Headquarters Complex, and you will control the gate to your sector. Additionally, there is motor pool, ammunition and EOD facilities onsite that will be common to all military missions.

Here is the actual SOFA, take a look at it, and if you have any concerns, now would be the best time to express them because we can ammend the SOFA on the spot with a mere pen change at this point. *the President hands the Emperor a form*

SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement, SMD 12: Form SOFA)

When one is compiled, we will provide you with a map of the District, and the Training Range. We will also provide you with very specific range control procedures that will allow us to coordinate indirect and air based fire between all parties. Naval Gunfire is a very controlled activity, and the impact area is rather limited. This will also be coordinated through Range Control.

While on Stoddenic soil, your forces will be bound by your military code while on base, and our law when off. This is standard SOFA stuff. Extradition between these two realms must be guaranteed. If any of your forces are accused of a crime off base, your forces must surrender him or her to the appropriate authorities to stand trial. A military lawyer will be requested from your side, and the lawyer will be allowed to consult with the accused and defend him in trial. If representation from your side is denied (for instance, if your command decides that the person is not eligible or worthy of legal defense) we will provide him with an attourney at no cost, and he will be eligible for repatriation if he is found to be not guilty, or after his trial. We expect the same considerations from your side.

You will not use depleted uranium in Stoddenia. Conventional munitions are more than adequate for training, while depleted uranium is only useful for creating long term ecological damage.

All statutes of international law will be obeyed by your side as we are a signatory government of international law.

We will permit only rebroadcast of television signals and commercial band radio signals emmanating from your country over your base, but not outside of its limits. Rebroadcast must be on a different frequency than Stoddenia radio and television stations as not to interfere. Broadcasts originating from your base, not to include those conducted over tactical encrypted networks will not be permitted.

The Oatmeal is a rabbit. It is also our national animal. It is therefore protected, and the deliberate death of one of these animals will incur a heavy fine upon any person found to be in any way harming this rabbit. Please do not allow your forces to kill our rabbits. We are somewhat superstitious about these animals, and the untimely death of one by human hands brings about horrible luck on an individual, or if you aren't superstitious, heavy fines and/or prison sentences.

Your Officers will enjoy diplomatic immunity (pen change- add "in the performance of their duties"). This will consist of instant repatriation in the event of accusation for a crime for your military to do with the person as they like.(pen Change- add "If an officer is arrested he or she will be immediately returned to Base Command. The reson for arrest will be present to Base authority. At this point, what happens to the offending officer will be at the sole discretion of the Mission Command Component. But the Officer will not be tried under the Stoddenic regime.") (pen change: Strike "In other words, we will not prosecute your officers.") We request the same from you for our officers or our government officials.

Your forces are not to go out into the civilian environment wearing military uniforms, insignia, or any other distinguishing mark that would suggest that they are military personnel. That is a privilege we reserve specifically for our militia. Your forces, in the civilian environment are still to observe and respect rank of our militia members, especially in interaction of Yallak enlisted with Militia officers, and junior grade Yallak officers with Militia Field Grade and General Grade officers. Military courtesy is to be shown to all officers of the Militia who are displaying military insignia. Proper address is "Sir" or "Commandante" depending on his or her rank. If no rank insignia is shown by a militia member, then the relationship is fraternal and requires no special provisions. But if a militia member is in uniform, he is in uniform for a reason, and if this militia member outranks one of your military who is on liberty in the community, that militia member gains limited seniority. i.e. the militia member, if he recognizes one of your presonnel of a junior rank as such, can requisition your troop temporarily to deal with an emergency of a non-military or non-police nature. Additionally, your forces are to carry their ID's (either their ID card or their dogtags) on them at all times when out in public.

Both of us will be permitted to honor members of each others' forces with personal achievement medals and commondations. Members of our militia will be permitted to display and wear their medals presented by a foreign power, and we strongly encourage you to permit your forces to do the same.

You will not provide a service for the exhange of currency at a greater advantage than the official rate provides the government of Stoddenia. All Stoddenic currency is the property of Stoddenia. You are permitted to purchase goods and services on base with your own currency, but off base the only currency to be used is the Doc.

The base will permit inspections by Stoddenia on a 48-hour notice. They will observe to see if the terms of the SOFA are being upheld, most notably, if there is more equiptment on site than permitted, more personnel, or if any of the provisions of SOFA are not being heeded. The process for inspection is: the IG (Inspector General) of Stoddenia's militia will inform the Base CO, while will then be requested (not required) to inform his staff and unit commanders. The IG will present a date for the inspection, not less than 48 hours from the notification. The IG reserves the right to arrive not more than one day after his scheduled date. Upon his arrival, the forces of the command to be inspected(excluding any units engaged in pre-arranged (that is, deployed before the IG sent notification of the Inspection) training exercises, will form ranks on the Parade Deck, while the IG's staff tours the base with the Commanding Officer, following the IG's preset itinerary. Meanwhile the IG him or herself will view a parade of the actual forces on base. After the Inspection, the IG will present both governments with any violations or comments and reccomendations not later than one week following the visit. if a violation of the SOFA is listed, the base must correct the violation within one week, or request a one month extension from the IG, who will grant or deny the extension upon his or her discretion alone. if the violation is not corrected within the alloted time, the military mission will end, and the visiting nation will be requested to leave within a week.

The government of Stoddenia will provide all of the services listed above on Form SOFA, and will be compensated to the sum of (pen change: add "100,000,000 convertable USD per annum"). The Government of Yallak and the Government of Stoddenia further agree to hold all the terms of this SOFA to the letter.

This agreement may be ammended after signature by the Heads of State of each of the signatory governments, or their delegated representatives upon submission of Form SOFA Amendment, and containing the following information: The force requesting the amendment, the nature of the amendment, any costs incurred in the amendment, and the signatures of both signatory states. Before it is signed, the SOFA may be amended through adding comments in the below section.

*end of the SOFA*

So, what do you think, Emperor? *the President sits back in his chair... Just then, the flamboyant Secretary of State, K., arrives and enters the office. K. is a youngish looking person that, to all outward appearances cannot possibly be over the age of 23. He informs the President that he got here as fast as he could, and askss what he missed, to which the President responds:*

Take a seat K. We are just starting to go over the SOFA.

“Just twelve destroyers. I assume we will be able to purchase supplies from your nation and any rearmament vessels will not remain in Stoddenia. No other vessels will be stationed here either.

The runway will not be a problem – our planes were designed to be carrier based too so they can handle short distances.”

The Emperor took the SOFA form from the President. He read over it slowly, making mental notes to himself alone the way. As he finished reading the document, K. entered the room. Balor put the paper down on the desk, nodding a greeting to the secretary before he began to address the President.

“Good. I have just one concern though.

That the terms of diplomatic immunity be removed from the agreement. The Empire does not tolerate crime from its own citizens, let alone their representatives and defenders in the military. If our officers have committed a crime they deserve to face trial for it. Whether or not you still wish your government officials immunity I leave to you, but I would prefer if this too were removed or at least stated to only cover minor offences.

Apart from that, the Empire agrees fully with the terms and conditions of establishing a military base in Stoddenia.

Now, the cost of rent. What do you propose would be sufficient to cover our operations in your nation?”

*The President and the Secretary of State look at one another, with questioning looks on their faces. The Secretary of State, K., responds to the question of immunity*

We understand your concern with the immunity. You believe that, in the interest of justice, these officers of both the military and the government should stand trial for crimes committed just like anyone else would, and it would be a violation of that just order if they "got off" without so much as a trial.

But, perhaps it would be best to think of the issue in these terms: 1) If your officers go out into our community and violate the law, while doing their job (there may be conflicts between our two systems, who knows?) and our people capture your officers, it would be VERY, how do you say, inconvienient... internationally speaking for us to publicly try your admiral. I mean, think of how that will make you look to your enemies. Naturally, it will be common knowledge that our republic is holding your Admiral in prison. That would put you in a rather difficult strategic position. Do you see what I mean? And vice versa, perhaps more so for our nation.

2) But the provision provides only for instant repatriation. What YOU do with your officers after they are escorted under gurad back to your base is entirely up to you. We will, of course explain why we have captured your man and have returned him, and you may decide what needs to be done with him. We will be satisfied that you take him back.

3) It may be necessary for one of your people to violate one of our laws to perform his duties as an officer. In this instance, how can we possibly prosecute him or her? It that sense, if your officer was hamstrung from performing his duties by our laws, and vice versa, that person would be less likely to do his job the way he needs to do it.

Now, this provision exists to avoid the manufacture of a diplomatic rift between otherwise friendly countries. We do not want the appearance that there is trouble in our association, as this would would be a weapon of any of our enemies. We can try your NCO's without incident: who would pay attention when a Sergeant is tried?. Your Officers, on the other hand, and our government officials even more so... No Sir, that is not an option.

*The President sits forward in his chair.* K. has explained the situation correctly. Would you agree, with this understanding, to accept a pen change of a less harsh degree rather than pressing your claim against diplomatic immunity?

As for rent... I must be honest, and demonstrate my diplomatic novice. I wouldn't have the faintest idea what is fair for the lease. Perhaps you have more experience in the subject, Emperor and could quote us a price. We will discuss it, and see if this sounds acceptable. if not, we will counter, and the negotiate... You would be doing us a tremendous favor, and this will set the benchmark on land leasing...

Under those conditions, I accept that it remains. A definite pen change though, just to clearly state the conditions under which immunity applies, and what happens to those who are arrested.

I am sorry to be so pedantic, but law and order are a very major concern in the Empire, and under our laws, crime has been nearly non-existent for hundreds of years. I would just hate to see our reputation and history tainted by someone who we were to station here, so far from our lands. Kind of like a school excursion, their must be very strict rules when outside the confines of the school itself.

To be honest myself, I have never before negotiated a military base in another nation. It is Imperial policy that strict and limited interaction take place with foreign nations. We only make exceptions for those who we consider worth a chance or able to provide valuable resources. In this case, you seem to be in both categories.
Considering that you will provide and airstrip, two hangers, barracks, naval docks and more for our use I will make a first offer of one hundred million USD per year.

*the Secretary of State, K. reports* Emperor, your changes have been made in-text of the SOFA. 100,000,000 USD per year sounds good to us, for the lease. It is a huge infusion of currency that we will do marvelous things with in Stoddenia. We have noted this as well in the SOFA.

*The President of Stoddenia searches through his desk and pulls out a tactical map of the District's training facilities. He presents the map (http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c22/doceopterix/PSD.jpg) to the Emperor.* Here is the map of the Naval Warfare training facility. Upon establishment of official diplomatic relations, you will also have access to the dry dock facilities at Oatmeal City. Your ships will have access to the port facilities at Port Stoddenia, but Oatmeal Bay facilities are used by our navy exclusively. please note that. Additionally, you will have access to Port Stoddenia Aircraft Training Center, the Naval Gunfire Range, the Derek Mountains Training Area and Base Camp to conduct mountain warfare training, The Oatmeal Straits Amphibious Assult Range, and the Oatmeal Bay Maneuver Area. The DMTA and OBMA are used for all maneuver, indirect fire and aircraft ops, depending on the terrain you want to train on, and the OSAAR is used to practice shore landing and ambhipious operations and maneuver. There is a MOUT course located in the OSAAR. The following areas do not fall under the SOFA: The Oatmeal Bay Naval Facility, Fort Oatmeal Island, and Stoddenia outside of the immediate vincinty of Oatmeal City and the road that connects Port Stoddenia Mainside to Oatmeal City. Your forces are not to travel within these other areas without a visa issued by our Government. If they are found in this area they do not recieve the protection of the SOFA and shall be treated as agents of a foreign government and will be imprisoned as such, until official diplomatic relations are established, and then they will be considered illegal aliens and will be deported. Do we have an understanding? If so, we will sign the SOFA.

*The Secretary of State then speaks* Emperor. A permanent Embassy within Stoddenia is a benefit to you. Here we can discuss the trade agreement I understand is still pending, as well as any international matters of both our nations' interest. I am not sure about your feelings toward establishment of a permanent Embassy, but if you haven't thought about it or may be disinclined, let me just say that I personally would rather negotiate, in Stoddenia, with a person who I have developed a personal relationship with over time when I needed to, than working entirely with you, as a head of State. No offense is implied, of course. It is just easier, and there is a different power arrangement with a career diplomat. So I request your consideration in establishment of a permanent embassy in our Capital City who can carry on discussions while you tend to other, perhaps more important, but certainly less mundane affairs than trade negotiation. Likewise, I would like to send one of my staff to open an embassy within your nation.

*The President hands the completed SOFA to the Emperor for signature*

“The terms of the SOFA are understood completely.”

The Emperor took the document and signed the bottom, then he returned it to the President.

“A permanent embassy is a difficult matter however. As I have explained to your President, Yallak does not a have a diplomatic division of Government. If not myself, then an Imperial Lord takes care of foreign negotiations. They are responsible for running the cities of the Empire and could not be permanently placed here.
I suppose it could be possible to arrange for one, but it would take time and I could not arrange for it until I returned to the capital.”

*The Secretary of State nods that he understands* Yes. Well, our diplomatic position would then be simply the military mission. That's rather sticky, but I am sure you are a busy man with a lot of things on your mind. But... I think I may have an idea. As an Emperor, all authority flows from your word, yes? (I would imagine so; I have never heard of a constitutional empire.) Anyhow, perhaps this may be a solution to the problem. Do you have an extra crewmember aboard your ship? One who is trustworthy enough to contact you when he or she has a difficult question, one who is fairly articulate and well read, one who knows your country's laws fairly well? Would it be possible for your to create him or her with a brevat title of nobility for the specific purpose of serving as an interim ambassador until you are able to name a permanent one?

This way you can leave a person behind with authority to fully negotiate the trade deal, you can head out to Torontia, or wherever you need to be at this point, and we could continue nogotiations? That is a temporary solution, but you may discover that this person is extrodinarily competent in this role, and displays a skill that nobody knew he or she had. At that point you will have had time to supply him or her with a staff to run the embassy. We can supply the staff in the meanwhile if this is needed.

*The President signs the SOFA, and then opens his desk drawer, makes three photocopies of the Form, and presents two of them to the Emperor of Yallak* Well, that is complete. You may take possession of your part of the Base immediately. You are invited to send your command staff on a mission to see the base with the District Commandante before you take possession of the agreed upon facilities. When they arrive your forces will be escorted in by our forces, and the District Commandante will assist you in getting everyting situated, your men in their barracks, your naval vessels in the yard, and this sort of thing. The Base itself is commanded by Commandante Lehrer and your Admiral will coordinate activities, training cycles and whatnot with her. She is a wonderful person, but she is very dedicated to her job, and is seen by many as a bit of a dictator. She is the Commandante of the Navy, but she also is expected to oversee the facility, so she has a lot of responsibility. She will be of any assistance you require.

I agree with K.'s suggestion about the ambassador. If you agree to this, we would also like to dispatch an ambassador to your country. I have just the person...

“While I am the ultimate authority in the Empire, it is somewhat of a constitutional one. (For a full breakdown of the Empire’s government see my factbook: http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=438910 , almost all Imperial Officials are elected).

For the time being I could leave one of my ships Captain’s, and I will return to the Empire with his ship to arrange a permanent embassy staff. If you could supply a staff for now that would be helpful.”

The Emperor took the copies of the SOFA.

“Until the operations in Torontia have finished only the base personnel will be sent to occupy the base. Our ships are needed to defend the Empire from its current enemies. If you know who you wish to send as an ambassador to Yallak then they can return with me at the conclusion of this meeting.”

You have your base personnel with you here? Well, then, I'll contact Cmde. Lehrer immediately. And one of your captains will be sufficient as a temporary ambassador. We will supply a full compliment of staff. When you select him, K. will accompany him or her to our capital and install him or her in the Yallak Embassy. We will have to call our person from Riveria, but she will be here in Oatmeal City in a day or so. Is this acceptible?

*The President rose from his seat, and walked toward the window.* Emperor, do you mind if I smoke? Stoddenia produces an extremely fine grade of Cigars, but these are only for consumption within the country. So very few people of the world know of these little luxuries. Here, however, we take what few luxuries we can. *smiles*

Speaking of luxuries, in the past few days our currency has improved significantly against the USD. Instead of being valued at 22 Docs to one dollar, we are now closer to 7.2 docs per dollar. Additionally, it would seem that we have acquired an automobile industry in the process, though we are not sure how. The economic minister must be staying up late at night. But we have moved to a more favorable position in terms of our economy, and our trade relationship, when it is officially negotiated, will be much more favorable to your economy.

Not with me no. But they can be dispatched from the Empire immediately.

Well, I have received word that the Kraven forces in Xirnium have begun to withdraw so yes, I can spare another day to await your ambassador.

I do not mind if you smoke. But that is good news. Your economy is developing very well – your minister seems extremely capable in his job and I would hope such a talent doesn’t go un-awarded.

*The President lights up a cigar. The extremely aromatic smoke quickly fills the air, and the Secretary of State opens the window* Presidente, it would seem that you could have done that yourself.

*the President responds* Yes, K. But I kow how much you truely enjoy the smoke of our national luxury. Please call Erin in Riveria and have her come down here. She is to be our ambassador to Yallak. She will represent our interests well in Yallak.

*The Secretary of State gave the President a questioning look* Mr. President, are you sure? Erin?

*The President drew a large draw of smoke and blew it into the air* Yes, K. I am sure. She will do just fine. Just call her, will you? *K responds something about "Ok, it's your call." and went to the Phone.* Erin please. *he waits and stares at the President, who says "What?!"* Yes, Erin? Yeah, well, Docus wants you out here. We have a mission for you... Well you are to become our first Ambassador *K.'s face immediately whinces and he yanks the phone away from his ear... A loud screaming is hear through the reciever and continues for about 45 seconds. When it appears that it is finished, K. puts the phone back to his ear* Erin? Are you still there? Alright, calm down... Ch... Chill OUT! Alright... Are you calmer? Good... Yes, its true... It's... Erin, I can't understand you while you're talking your valley dialect... Look... Just get down here and we'll give you the details... yes, its for real... Look, just come to the Office in Oatmeal. We'll see you soon... *K. hangs up the phone and shakes his head* That woman is NUTS.

*The President smiles* K. She'll do just fine *he turns to the Emperor* She is a little excited about this job. She's been looking forward to doing this for a while now, since she joined up with us 8 years ago. She listed this sort of job as a requisite for joining us. Since she was a very valuable guide in her valley, and we had no idea we would win back then, it didn't really seem like that hard a promise to make. But she is very dedicated, and will work very hard, and she has our absolute confidence.

*K. interrupts* Docus, don't you think you should tell him about the one, probably most important thing about Erin?

*The President sighs heavily* Well, I suppose, just so there is no suprises. Erin is... very... young. She recently turned 16. She's been with our forces since she was a little girl. She understands our movement very well, and her situation is similar to mine. Her parents were murdered in the Partisan Mountains by the oligarchy when she was five, but they set her free. She wandered around the mountains, stealing food where she could for two years before she ran into us. We sort of adopted her, because while it was difficult to feed another mouth, she was already pretty much a veteran in her own right of the conflict, and she was already adapted to guerilla life. Plus, she knew the place like the back of her hand. We tried to take her back to her valley, and she was very influential in helping us meet with the locals there, and served as an interpreter. When we had done our work there, she decided that we were now her family, and joined us. She was the youngest guerilla and now she is currently employed as a functionary in Riveria. Well, she is an ambassador now.

*the President looks back out the window.* Emperor, if you need a break, feel free to take one. Our hotel has a restaurant down stairs as you saw. You can check on your men, and whatnot. We can wait until she gets here...

“To be honest again, I am not shocked, especially considering the circumstances of your nations past. The High Lord of Navarath and my best General, who has led the war in Xirnium from the frontline is only nineteen.

But no matter. If you feel she is suited to the task then she will be your ambassador in our nation.

For now a break would be nice. I should make sure Captain Daroir hasn’t wandered to far. I will also arrange for the base personnel to be sent here within the next day.

The Emperor smiled.

I guess I will be down stairs then.

We'll see you in a while, Emperor. Take it easy, rest up, eat well, and we will come down within an hour.

"Very I will see you then."

With that Balor stood up, nodded his goodbye and exited the room.

*Within the hour, The President and Secretary of State arrive in the Hotel Lobby and begin searching for the Emperor. They find him sitting in the Hotel restaurant with his security detatchment and Captain, as well as several of Oatmeal City's rather well dressed young women at a rather large table. The two walk up to the table.* Ladies, if you please... *the women get up and depart for another table, waving at the visiting soldiers as they go. The President speaks*

I trust you found the locals to be friendly... We asked the staff of the hotel to provide your men some female company for a little while while you all waited down here. I hope they represented themselves well, but it is always nice, for a fighting man to have some company, even if it is something as small as having dinner together for an hour. It always improves morale.

We invited you to take this break because we had to inform the country about our decisions to accept your military mission, and to exchange diplomats. Our message was taped and will appear on the news tonight. Additionally, our friend, Erin will be here shortly. As it turns out, she was packed... probably has been for a year now... *K. laughs, and the President continues* She was able to quit her job and hop a commuter plane. Very efficient, she is. So she'll be here shortly. We can figure out where to go from there. Sounds good?

The Emperor and his men stood as the President arrived.

“The dinner and company were both excellent.

Yes that sounds fine. Until then though I have made contact with the Empire and arranged for the military base personnel to be transported here tomorrow, I hope that is all right with you.
Furthermore Captain Daroir here has agreed to remain behind as ambassador until a permanent replacement arrives.

Will I be able to see the news announcement?”

Emperor, I don't think it is anything important. It is nothing more than we negotiated, almost word for word. But tonight, if you like, flip on the television, to channel 7, and the message will be broadcast a couple times after 9 pm.

*A young girl with purple hair comes into the Hotel Lobby, wearing a military uniform that looks slightly too big for her. She stands in stark contrast to the Redness of the hotel lobby. She looks over and sees the hotel restaurant. She shoulders her weapon, and strides up in through the door. The Maitre' D of the Restaurant tries to stop her to see if she needs help and she cuts him off with a simple wave and walks right past him, over to the table where the security personnel, the Emperor, The President and the Secretary of State are seated.*

Hey, who's the imperialist here? *The President sits up in his chair immediately and clears his throat and motions with his eyes to the Emperor. K. just stifles a laugh* Erin, he's sitting right here at the table.

*She snaps to attention and says" Most benevolent and Imperial majesty, Balor the Magnificent of Yallak. I represent the people of Stoddenia and will be traveling with you to your country to organize an embassy. My staff is on standby at the port awaiting transport to your country. We consist of myself, the heads of the economics, foreign affairs, and press sections, as well as 8 others. We will be taking along an automobile that was produced yesterday in Riveria. It is a custom built automobile, which is just generally kick ass, has all the features. I await your departure. *She immediately stands at rest, unshoulders her weapon, and pulls up a chair from some other table, sat it down right next to K. and took some food from his plate... K. responded* You have no manners... *Erin looked up and wiped a few crumbs from her mouth...* Kammy, you need to lighten up. I'll be out of your hair soon enough and off to bigger and better things, so chill out. I'm famoused... *K. shot a look over to the President, who simply smiled and shook his head.* She'll do just fine...

This time the Emperor was quite shocked, though he was quite successful at hiding it. Captain Daroir on the other hand could not quite constrain a small laugh, though a glare from Balor quickly silenced it.

“Well met Erin. The trip will take several hours so we will leave first thing in the morning. Your embassy will actually be situated inside the Imperial palace and your rooms are already being prepared.”

*The President rises and turns to the Captain, who is the new Temporary Ambassador.* Captain Daroir. You know already that I am the President of this Nation and as such have the enitre authority of the People of Stoddenia. This is my secretary of state, K. who you will be working with while you get situated in our capital city. We look forward to assisting you in any way available.

*The President smiles and turns back to Erin.* Well, Erin, you are off to a new life far from your home. You have been a great service to your nation already. I expect nothing but more of the same from you in the service of your country abroad.

*Erin smiles and bids a tearful yet dignified farewell* Docus, you have been like a father to me. I won't let you or this country down. *She regains her composure and turns to the Emperor* Sire, you have completed your business with the President of the United Socialist States of Stoddenia. Any further negotiations, transactions, or messages to the people of Stoddenia will go through me, as I speak for our people while in your country. Stoddenia will provide the same courtesy to your people by relaying all messages through your ambassador. If you have finished your business here, myself and my staff are ready to depart when you are.

*The President then shakes the hand of The Emperor of Yallak* Unfortunately for myself, Emperor, this is where our meeting ends. I must return to work in the Capital and have stayed here in luxury for far too long. It has been a pleasure working with you, Emperor. *He then turns and walks off. K. remains behind. He stands after the President leaves.* We look forward to working with your nation in the Future, Emperor. When your permanent Ambassador and staff arrives, please contact the Captain here, so he may inform us of the fact, and we can make arrangements to fly him in from Oatmeal City. Your Ambassador will meet with the Base Commandante to begin preparing the arrival of your forces to your military mission.. Is there anything else, Emperor?

“No. I believe we are finished here. I have enjoyed my time here but I too have been gone from business for to long. It was an honour.”

As the president departs, the Captain’s communicator beeped to alert him of an incoming call.

“My Lord. Your helicopter is en route.”
“Thank you Captain.”

Balor turned to Erin and K.

“Well, we shall be off now. It should not be too long before our permanent ambassador and military contingent arrive.”

*Ambassador Erin accompanied the Emperor back to the port where she debarked the helicopter and boarded another helicopter with her staff. The Helicopter lifted off but remained behind to be attached to an automobile in a huge wooden crate. The Helicopter then flew the entire Embassy Staff and automobile back to the Yallak Naval vessel, and dropped everything off. The car was then put in storage to be offloaded once they got to Yallak.*

*Meanwhile, K. And the Captain left the building and boarded a bus to head out to Port Stoddenia's facilities to tour the place. The Captain radioed back some information to the Emperor of Yallak, to give the all clear to land, and the two statesmen awaited the arrival of the forces.*

*Meanwhile, the President safely touched down in Stoddenia City and proceeded directly to work, hearing all backed up concerns and deciding policy in this fashion. He held a meeting with his economic minister to congratulate him on the handling of Stoddenia's economy, and ordered him to gear up aluminium and titanium production to prepare for export. He awaits the negotiations between his secretary of state and Captain Daroir to officially conclude.*

Once the Emperor and Erin were onboard their ship, the Entire fleet began its return journey to the Empire. Erin and her staff were given rooms in the officer’s quarters. It would take roughly four days to reach Imperial waters and then another day to pass down the great channel, which flowed into the heart of the Empire and the port of Eadhan.

Coming the other way were several transports carrying the base personnel for the new military mission. It would take them the same amount of time as the fleet to reach Stoddenia. In Stoddenia, Captain Daroir relayed the news to K.

*K. Calls Ambassador Daroir on the Telephone. He gets the answering machine, so he leaves a message.*

Captain, we have recieved word that the first of vessels for the military mission have began arriving. The Commandante of the District will assist them in choosing sites, will familiarize your commanders with laws and etc, and remind them of the SOFA. We are now finished with the military mission business and everything is going smooth as can be. Feel free to have your generals inform our Commandante, who will inform our government of all major exercises and war games you will be conducting from the mission, and perhaps in the future we can get some mutual training in between our two forces.

When you are ready to discuss economic and trade, let me know. K. Out.

After receiving the message, Captain Daroir made an immediate reply.

“Good to hear. I’m sure they’ll want to begin joint training operations as soon as possible. As for trade – we can do that as soon as possible, just name a place and time.”

Captain, how about right now? What is it that you and the President agreed upon? We'll go ahead and draft it up and get it going.

"Now is fine. I believe the arrangement was for you to supply aluminium and titanium to us, which we will ship ourselves and in return we will supply Stoddenia with TV sets, sound systems, and other appliances.”

*a telephone call interrupts the meeting* I see... Ok.

Captain, apparently there is some news that you should probably know about. It would seem that the world has decided to threaten Stoddenian soil once more. You would do well to inform your mission of this, and take the necessary precautions so that you are not in the middle of this conflict. We have been accused of making and distributinig chemical weaponry. These charges are false, but we fear it shall be used as a pretext to invade our country. The President has left to attend a conference about this matter, and Comdt. Gevaria is in charge of the nation for the time being. But things do not look good. There is a fleet sent out to blockade the nation, and our navy has been dispatched to deal with that situation. But as I said, you should see to it that your troops are reprised of the situation, and prepare to eithher take off or get them to safety where they won't get mixed up in the affair.

"Do you need assistance? I can contact the Emperor and have part of the fleet sent here from Torontia. We have over eighteen hundred ships there - they are not all needed and would be more than enough to break the threats against Stoddenia."

*K. thinks for a moment.* Captain, if you would, we would be very much in your nation's debt. Our navy, while they are numerous and skilled might not be very effective against warships. After this is all over with, if we come through this alright, as you can imagine, our relations will have improved significantly, and we will likely be in a position to renegociate the SOFA to more favorable terms for your nation. Our mission in Torontia has discovered no homegrown insurgency, and so once we are able to extract our people, we will at least be entirely out of that theater... But if you don't mind putting your forces in harms way on our account, we will certainly have no problems offering more than adequate compensation.

"No compensation is required. The Empire is always there for its friends. The fleet is already on standby, awaiting my word to leave Torontia. I will send them the message now and they should be in your waters in about two hours.
I have also been informed that the Emperor is making arrangements with Erin for the evacuation of your operatives from Torontia. If all goes well they should be returned to you upon the arrival of our ships.”