President Alanfa was already tired of the ongoing negotiations. He had convinced the hardliner communists to accept a compromise with the socialists and Unionists to proceed slowly with the changes they wanted as not to destroy the economy. This uprising had been done on the behalf of the working class, to improve their working and living conditions, not to destroy their livelihoods.

Another worry was the escape of Françoise Hoshonti, CEO of the Stillwater Security Services and de facto head of the Covert Operations section of the Bureau of State Security. Hoshonti had enough mercenaries to mount a counter revolution is he so desired.

For the time being, he would allow Joseph Okahoshito to keep his post as Ambassador to the Varangian Kingdom of Galicia-Volhynia. As long as he did his keep doing his job satisfactory that is.

Alanfa sighed as he gazed out the supposedly bullet proof glass window. What have I gotten myself into? he thought.

Hoshonti had made his move to seize western Goulapasca and a short but vicious struggle had ensued. When it was over, a military base had been totally destroyed and three others damaged, a city was in flames while another had been reduced to rubble. Hoshonti was believed to have been killed but his body had yet to be found.

Alanfa read the civilian casualties report and was appalled. The socialist revolution had begun with little violence but had been paid for with the blood of innocents in the end. Alanfa hoped that the blood debt had been paid in full and a new renaissance for his people could begin.

Southeastern Goulapasca had announced its intention to secede to form its own nation. Fortunately, most of its citizens did not share the wishes of the politicians and took to the streets to show their support of the new socialist national government. When the troops moved in, they were welcomed by the people, and a new revolt was averted.

Unfortunately, Alanfa didn't have the opportunity to enjoy this victory very long. A communique from the Varangian government challenged the legitimacy of the new nation. He could only hope Okahoshito could convince the Varangians their cause was a just one.