Saint HeleneBoard

The Leopard lurches onwards towards the Lion’s Den.

462 miles of steep mountain terrain, charted through by a few structurally sound and large enough roads to support the Khudlaa-Khan’s forces on their march towards the capital. Great peaks crowd the road on both sides, with slopes sometimes at full verticals or overhanging along the entire paved road up the slopes of the West Chubvlai’s, through the Burkaguutsval gap, and onto the East Chubvlai’s, where they would gradually descend down the slopes and upon Chan’Kogalnikeau.

Through the first night, Costin’s forces made great progress under the shadow of darkness. Filled with reverence, a growing fire in their chest, and fanned by the final show of Costin to his superiors and those now under his command in preparation for his waiting ascension- the world seemed clear, absolute, and ready for the oncoming change as they hastily crowded into troop transports. Commanding the column, Costin and a few other key strategists and supporters drew up their tactical approach towards the capital as the time to act would draw near faster than they knew they needed. There was no time to slow in their approach, nor in their planning.

The shadows of transport trucks flashed across the stone cliff faces from illuminated road-lights bringing light to the road, while shadowing the great depths below and heights above in another veil of darkness and un-scalability. With its difficult terrain, they fought and clawed their way up and down the winding highway, crowded side by side as they pitched down the two-lane road, far more fit for civilian cars than military vehicles. In a few hours they had made only some 120-miles under gravity’s torrent and the chugging of their engines

Frustrated, and knowing time and the element of surprise was quickly fading with the shock that was surely being induced by the death of the Vu’duce and the appearance of a nondescript military convoy heading towards the capital, Costin slowly grew frustrated and impatient, yet kept a steady appearance before his comrades, and continued steadfast in his planning.

Still tuned into the strategic command channels of the Utocistite military, they continued under a perceived quiet through the dead of night. The sky was darker than usual, with the stars shining brighter than before. Fate, in Costin’s mind, was lining the way to Chan’Kogalnikeau. But as fate would have it, they could only get so far until the convoy was found out.

…

Dear brother,

I write to you in recognition of our history, and the history that stands before us.

I ask of you to forgive me, and my inexperience. I know that father’s passing and that of the dynasty will not bode well in your heart and in your mind. And the many flurries that have defined our times together will once again fall upon you.

We have both struggled, and will know struggle in times to come. We are two different men, how we have been raised and our experiences- but I wish to shed this difference. I don’t wish to feud with you or contend you and your ideas, but offer you an opportunity. Just as father had, The halls of Utociste-Zeme are yours as they are mine. There is indefinite possibility for you in our people’s realm, and places for you to make and install change within our government.

If a place of governance is unappetizing, I will fully support your endeavors in the military and onward. Your titles and rank are yours, and in-fact earned, rightfully and dutifully. There is no doubt about that. You have proved yourself over and over, and are too valuable of a brother and soldier to forget amidst the flurry of my new occupation.

I have nothing for you but…

Costin lifts his pen from the white paper, and lets his thoughts wander as he gazes out the window over the deadened city, with nothing astroke but yet the city lights remain lit, void of any activity, lighting the canvas of the city, with its native white walls, square structure, and hidden legacy. He thinks onward and about his letter, in somber reflection and pre-thought as to how to guide his brother back into the fray. He fades between thoughts about his brother and the city before him. It is dark- in fact, it's the dead of the night, and the capital lulls.

A day of death and a day of mourning had passed, in which the nation mourned but the Ketchenak Khan could not, for the state had to be tended too, and have the reality of its wounds revealed to its own inner workings. The heavy air of death, and the uncertainty of the country's future loomed heavy wherever the Ketchenak Khan wandered, even within his own ranks- followed closely by advisors, friends, and mourners who haunted him throughout the day. The Chan’s Palace was a hive who had lost its queen, or aptly, king, bee.

Now, Costin presented himself in valor and aptitude in any way possible as he tended to the swarm. He knew that while his crown and color displayed the prestige of a proper Khan, he needed to win and confirm his affiliations lest be rejected by those that controlled the Vu’duceship behind the scenes- for as powerful as the Vu’duceship was, it was only the head of a great body that controlled the many quarters and corners of Utociste-Zeme. An entire day of crafting resoluteness in the face of grief, and intelligence and courage in spite of zealousness. Dialogue over the future of the nation’s society, military, and state to determine if the young but trained Ketchenak Khan had the early hallmarks of a future, apt, Vu’duce.

In a dress mixed of a military stature and of the traditional black Utocistite mourning-garb, the Ketchenak Khan spent an entire day confined by the chalk and clay walls of the Chan’s Palace, seeing the progression of time through the windows of busy hallways. In his time during the first day, he realized the new respect he commanded, and felt more confident in his ability as the day progressed. But as the day ended, and the halls of the palace fell empty, he was once again reminded of his circumstances. The grief, everpresent, and the anxiety, rampant.

Hoping to find friendship and shed the sibling rivalry with his brother, and find some solace in himself in his own words, he wrote eagerly. But was now left unsure as he fought with himself to describe his relationship with his young brother. Although similar in many ways, an entirely different upbringing and life path differentiated them atop with physical characteristics. He felt like sometimes he had loved him only for that he was his brother, but maybe that was proof enough. Now he aimed to give him security in the face of uncertainty, or so he thought.

Still in a distracted trance, looking towards the city lights and trying to drum up the right synonym to describe his attachment, the rumble of boots was heard down the hallway. It grabbed his attention immediately, as the housekeeper's soft steps sounded nothing like it, and it remained far-too-early into the morning. He shifted his eyes towards his study door as he felt and heard them get nearer and nearer before finally they were at his door.

The door was knocked upon and opened, to the familiar sight of several military officials. Costin’s heart had already started to pound, but now a shiver was sent through his spine. If they weren’t there for him personally, there was still sure to be bad news. They saluted him as they entered in,

“What is it?!” Costin demanded, anxious towards whatever would happen next.

The generals exchanged a few brief looks to the horror of Costin before the eldest of the soldiers spoke. “There have been reports and a confirmed sighting from the military detachment in Anarba of an unannounced military column towards the capital.”

Costin frowned, and needed a moment to process the information, a moment not afforded. The general continued, “A similar report was later given by a lower ranking officer in Lahovnbagüi, which has gotten increasingly silent since yesterday…” The general looked upon the Ketchenak Khan, “They are saying your brother is leading the column towards the capital. It’s an insurgency, sir.”

Any emotion Costin showed on his face dropped, as he became pale and his eyes distant. A million thoughts rushed through his head. His father’s death, his older sister bolting, and now his brother’s betrayal in spite of any relation and common pain. His family now left him one by one. His heart thumped, and his brain told him to act, lest be seen as weak before the same generals who command respect in the branch divided by mutiny. He stood wearily from his chair, his arms slightly buckling under the weight of his situation. He looked at the generals, and them, at him.

“Wake the forces of the capital and surrounding cities, build strategic planning outside the city and higher into the Chubvlai’s. We want as little possible civilian casualties if it comes to that. Try and get a line to the convoy, and if it's true,,, I shall talk to my brother myself.” The Ketchenak Khan said. The general’s faces seemed somber, and with nods of acknowledgement, they exited the room towards the military corridors of the Chan’s palaces’ basement.

Costin, left on his own, fell back into his chair in expiration. Sadness, tiredness, and anxiety fell upon him. And once again he looked out the windows of his study towards the lights of Chan’Kogalnikeau. He was at his own mercy. Seconds later, he sat up scarily fast, and ripped up the letter in front of him, crumpling up its scraps and throwing them off his desk in frustration and betrayal. Pens and other folders sent flying, the yet-proven Vu’duce sat back and took deep breaths to calm himself.

…

Chaos had yet to fall over Chan’Kogalnikeau.

…

Florin’s finger traces a line on a map, shadowed on both sides by changing colors distinguishing sharply changing elevations, divided by a yellow and blue line parallel to each other- the Uruudaj’baina River and the highway carved into its valley crest. They had just rounded south around Anarba and were making decent headway down the eastern slopes of the Chubvlai’s. Two hundred and fifty miles separate them from the Chan’s Palace.

Although no longer fighting against the strain of gravity as they clawed their way up and through the Burkaguutsval Gap, they now fought with her, one foot almost always on the brakes as too not gain too much speed with the sometimes dangerous pitches and turns of the road. Traffic, even past midnight, still remained higher on the slopes surrounding the capital- and now the column was repeatedly passed by one after another civilian vehicles that further heightened the soldiers’ anxiety and alarm. The drive towards the capital was on, and now gradually descending in elevation, their pace was increased.

A hundred ranks of transport trucks, heading down towards their destiny at Chan’Kogalnikeau.

A hundred ranks soon to be met by a growing volume of military forces organized by the rightful Ketchenak Khan.

With the slow rising of the sun in a time that they were once shadowed by the mountains surrounding their homes and sanctity in Lahovnbagüi, the sky grew increasingly bright, and with it, the spirits of Florin and his closest supporters grimmer. The veil was slipping, if not already drawn back.

The Promise of Vu’duceship seemed to leave Florin as quick as the moon, dropping behind the Chubvlai mountains, leaving the absolution of day to shine with increasing brightness, and the day waking. Descending down, the Leopard has started to fall into the Lion’s grasp.

Chairman Borisov Announces Early Election

Following mounting pressure from the Listovian public and members of the Peoples' Assembly, Chairman Alexander Borisov has announced his intention to hold a General Election within the coming weeks. It comes amid calls on Chairman Borisov to hold an election to seek public support for a new mandate for a peacetime government.

It potentially looks to be an uphill battle for the Listovian Peoples’ Front whose polling has continued to decline since the defection of six LPF assembly members to the newly formed New Listovia party. This splinter party has been growing since its creation and is now polling second behind the LPF. Despite this growth a poll on 26 April put New Listovia 16 points behind.

Meanwhile the Listovian Democratic Party and Social Democratic Party continue to poll around 15 points each. Whilst Listovia First has seen its support collapse since January when New Listovia was created.

The upcoming election which will be held on 25 May, as it must allow a four week campaign period, will be the first to be held under a new electoral system. The new system will see 32 members elected from constituency seats whilst a further 88 will be elected from the nationwide popular vote subject to a five percent threshold.

In response to the news Nicholai Levitsky, the Leader of New Listovia, said “We welcome the Chairman’s announcement and his commitment to peacetime democracy but we must recognise his failure to secure the freedom of all Listovians. If elected my party will begin immediate discussions with Five Kingdoms to secure the release of the occupied northern territories and we will evaluate all necessary steps to ensure the freedom of all of Listovia.”

The Leader of the Listovian Democratic Party, Borek Sidorchuk, commented on the announcement “This election will be a chance for the Listovian electorate to decide how they want Listovia to rebuild and we believe that it is one where we are not controlled by a party that is more suited to being a paramilitary organisation.”

With four weeks now until polling day the future of the LPF’s current administration could soon be called into doubt. It is believed that the parties will begin campaign in the coming days with each hoping to command the Assembly by the end of May.

Fusion Technology Arrives to the Republic

In the midst of soaring energy prices the National Assembly has passed sweeping hills reforming environmental policy and bulldozing a decade worth of environmental policies in order to mediate the severe impact the Sumori Oil Crisis has on the national and global economy to the detriment of environmental activists. However, these activist may have won a significant battle against fossil fuels as they have successfully petitioned the National Assembly to hear an pass a new spending bill with clear intention for the Republic to invest in clean electrical energy derived from fusion nuclear power.

While Lunghan R&D has produced large scale fusion reactors, the government has coordinated and negotiated with the USFR to acquire its miniaturized fusion technology.

In cooperation with and investments from Massfusion and Westek, two of the most prominent fusion development and utilization corporations within the USFR, plans are being drawn for the construction of fusion cell manufacturing facilities. The mainland province of Huckxu and the Southern Isle province of Wongsam have provided the most ambitious bid packages. Construction of these facilities will not only employ high skilled high education professionals in the maturing nuclear industry but also hundreds if not thousands of distributors.

Investors look to the fusion cell as a transformative technology as seen in the 2022 Heunglum Techology fair as safe nuclear energy can be implemented in dozens of civilian uses.

ATLAS Mechanization Group has already announced its 4th generation commercial utility units will operate using hybrid fusion-hydrocarbon power trains in an effort to improve efficiency and endurance of their platforms.

This announcement as well as the passing of the new spending bill has led to a rise in the Guang Tech industrial Index. A sense of optimism has returned to the markets as the XJX inches upwards.

Additional trade deals were made official with representatives of the Green Army to purchase farming equipment. Assorted tractors and trailers are to be delivered through Rovengrad as Lunghan disaster relief efforts continue in the devastated port city of Zapadnoblast.

Sol Nods. “It would be interesting to combine Naragian Building techniques with Foreign Architecture. I will send a request.”

The Man bows respectfully, “May the Ancestors guide your Paw falls Imperator. And know should the republic fail You have our eternal Loyalty to be Our Emperor.”

Letter to Canineia, Lungha, And Any SSTO member willing to help.

Dear friends and Allies. My people have requested Something strange that I Hope you will indulge me with.

One of our cities was hit by a Hurricane that leveled much of the Ancient city. It is that City where Immigrants and refugees land when they first Arrive. A true Melting pot. If You could lend us Some Architect and builders we wish to have them rebuild the City with the design of many cultures. Should you agree your Builders and Architects will be given Lodging and payed the Same as the Naragian workers.

With Respect, Consul of Exterior, Sol Cerium Narag.

Westek and Mass Fusion, leading forces in fusion technology development within the USFR, are taking proactive steps following outreach from Lungha. The companies have announced plans to dispatch representatives to Lungha to engage directly with local stakeholders. This initiative comes as part of a broader collaboration aimed at integrating USFR's advanced fusion technology into Lungha's energy infrastructure.

**Westek and Mass Fusion's Involvement:**

1. **Discussion and Negotiation:**

Representatives from Westek and Mass Fusion are scheduled to meet with stakeholders in Lungha to finalize the terms of their involvement. These discussions will focus on key aspects such as pricing strategies, the scope and scale of the proposed manufacturing facilities, and the detailed logistics of technology transfer and implementation.

2. **Employment Strategy:**

A central topic in the upcoming discussions will be the employment strategy concerning both immigrants and local residents. Westek and Mass Fusion are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, which will not only include hiring high-skilled professionals from the maturing nuclear industry but also opening hundreds, if not thousands, of positions for distributors and other auxiliary roles.

3. **Construction of Fusion Cell Manufacturing Facilities:**

The mainland province of Huckxu and the Southern Isle province of Wongsam have put forward ambitious bid packages to host the new fusion cell manufacturing facilities. The construction of these plants is expected to be a major boost to the local economies, providing numerous job opportunities and positioning these regions at the forefront of advanced energy technology development.

4. **Mass Production and Exportation Plans:**

In parallel with setting up operations in Lungha, Westek and Mass Fusion will commence mass production of fusion cores and fusion generators at their existing facilities in the USFR, and will be exported to meet the growing energy needs of Lungha, particularly for powering projects in Lungha R&D.

5. **Sustainable Development and Environmental Impact:**

Recognizing the sensitivity of this project from an environmental perspective, especially considering the recent opposition from environmental activists, both Westek and Mass Fusion are prepared to discuss how these technologies will not only conform to but exceed current environmental standards. This will be crucial in securing the support of both the government and the public.

6. **Educational and Training Initiatives:**

Recognizing the importance of local expertise in sustaining and operating fusion facilities, there will likely be talks on establishing training and educational programs. These initiatives would aim to transfer knowledge and skills to Lunghan professionals, ensuring the long-term operational independence and efficiency of the fusion generators.

**Hoped Outcomes:**

The visit by Westek and Mass Fusion representatives is hoped to lay the groundwork for a robust partnership between Lungha and the USFR in fusion energy development. By aligning technological, economic, and environmental objectives, and to spur Lungha’s energy industry forth.

In response to escalating global tensions and the strategic imperatives of regional stability, USFR has embarked on a significant military fortification project within the 5kob colony of the Raj. This endeavor is not only a show of the USFR's commitment to its allies but also a clear signal of its readiness to maintain peace through strength in North Fusea, the USFR will send a detachment of 40k troops to the raj as the beginning phases of operation iron curtain.

**__Comprehensive Defense Strategy:__**

The Raj, is positioned as a crucial geopolitical asset, and is set to transform into a bulwark of defense and power projection under the USFR's ambitious plans. The strategy involves a multi-layered defense system, integrating state-of-the-art military technology with rigorous troop readiness programs.

**__Fortifications and Static Defenses:__**

- **Outer Wall:**

The construction of an extensive outer wall, made from steel-reinforced concrete and equipped with integrated weapon emplacements, will serve as the primary barrier against ground invasions. This formidable structure will be engineered to withstand severe bombardments and breach attempts.

- **Automated Turrets and Weapon Stations:**

Strategically dispersed throughout the Raj, automated turrets will bolster the outer defenses by providing relentless firepower against encroaching forces. These automated systems will be equipped with AI capabilities to target enemy vehicles, infantry, and low-flying aircraft effectively.

**__Air Defense Systems:__**

- **Advanced Radar Networks:**

A sophisticated array of radar systems will envelop the Raj, offering comprehensive surveillance capabilities to monitor and respond to aerial threats promptly.

- **Surface-to-Air Missiles:**

SAM batteries will be strategically positioned to create a dense network of anti-air defenses, capable of intercepting and neutralizing aircraft at various altitudes and speeds.

- **Jet Squadrons:**

dedicated squadrons of advanced fighter and interceptor jets will patrol the Raj's airspace, equipped and ready to engage any aerial threats that penetrate the outer missile defense layer.

**__Ground and Support Infrastructure:__**

- **Military Bases:**

New bases will be constructed across the Raj to accommodate not only infantry but also specialized units. These facilities will house aircraft, power armor units, and armored vehicles, ensuring rapid deployment capability and operational readiness.

- **Supply Depots and Repair Stations:**

To support sustained military operations, comprehensive logistics hubs, including supply depots and repair stations, will be established. These facilities will ensure that all military equipment is maintained in peak condition and that essential supplies are readily available.

- **Underground Networks:**

Beneath the urban centers, a complex network of tunnels will be developed. These will provide safe passages for civilian evacuation, facilitate covert movements of troops, and serve as secure command centers during crises.

**__Troop Training and Readiness:__**

- **Specialized Training Programs:**

Troops stationed in the Raj will undergo intensive training focused on urban warfare and defensive operations, emphasizing minimizing civilian impact while maximizing operational effectiveness.

**__Stockpiling Essential Resources:__**

Critical resources such as food, water, and medical supplies will be stockpiled extensively to ensure the Raj can sustain itself independently during prolonged sieges or blockades.
To further enhance the fortifications within the Raj and ensure an heavy defense posture, the USFR will implement a multi-tiered perimeter defense strategy ahead of the main wall construction. This strategy is meticulously designed to neutralize various threats ranging from ground assaults to advanced aerial attacks, providing a comprehensive shield over the Raj.

**__Multi-Layered Perimeter Defenses:__**

**__ Advanced Minefields and Obstacle Fields:__**

- **Minefields:**

Extensive minefields will be laid out surrounding the primary defensive perimeters, incorporating both anti-armor and anti-personnel mines. These minefields will serve as a critical first line of defense, designed to disable or destroy enemy armored vehicles and deter infantry advances.

- **Obstacles and Barricades:**

Along with minefields, a series of obstacles, including razor wire, tank traps, and reinforced barricades, will be strategically placed to hinder any form of vehicular movement and complicate direct assaults on foot.

**__Enhanced Natural and Constructed Vantage Points:__**

- **Sniper and Scout Nests:**

Utilizing the natural geography of the Raj, sniper nests will be established in elevated positions, particularly within tree lines, to provide broad surveillance and targeted engagement capabilities. Additional scout and sniper positions will be constructed on various surface areas to monitor enemy movements extensively and coordinate effectively with other defensive assets like drones and artillery.

**__Trench Warfare Capabilities:__**

- **Defensive Trenches:**

Before reaching the main outer wall, enemy forces will encounter a network of strategically dug trenches. These trenches will provide USFR troops with protective fighting positions, enabling them to engage the enemy effectively while minimizing exposure to direct fire.

**__Integrated Air Defense System:__**

- **Defensive Web for Missile Defense:**

To counter the threat posed by both hypersonic and conventional missiles, a sophisticated defensive web will be established. This system will include advanced missile interception technologies capable of tracking and neutralizing incoming threats before they can reach their target.

- **AA Battery Defenses:**

Complementing the missile defense web, anti-aircraft (AA) batteries will be installed at critical points around the Raj. These batteries will be equipped with the latest in surface-to-air missile technology & anti-aircraft guns, ready to engage and destroy any hostile aircraft that manages to penetrate the outer radar coverage.

**__Comprehensive Integration with Existing Defenses:__**

These new enhancements will seamlessly integrate with the already planned robust fortifications, which will include:

- **Outer Wall:**

A formidable barrier will constructed that will be made of steel-reinforced concrete, featuring weapon emplacements designed to resist and repel ground assaults and bombardments will be constructed as an outer barrier to withstand heavy sieges to wear down enemy forces.

- **Automated Defense Systems:**

Automated turrets and heavy weaponry stations will be strategically deployed to maintain relentless suppression and engagement of approaching threats.

As part of the comprehensive defense initiative within the Raj, USFR will institute a rigorous program of meticulous invasion drills designed to ensure operational readiness and effectiveness of all military personnel stationed in the region. These drills have been crafted to simulate a variety of invasion scenarios, allowing troops to practice response and engagement strategies under highly tense and stressful conditions.

**__Objectives of the Invasion Drills:__**

The primary objectives of these invasion drills will include:

- **Enhancing Tactical Proficiency:**

This will be to refine the tactical skills of the troops in responding to different types of invasions, ranging from ground assaults to aerial attacks.

- **Testing Defense Systems:**

The USFR will assess the functionality and effectiveness of all defensive installations, including automated turrets, missile silos, AA batteries, and the extensive minefield and obstacle setups.

- **Improving Coordination:**

The USFR understands coordination is essential and will foster seamless coordination between different branches of the military, including infantry, armored units, air force, and support services within the integrated defense network.

- **Stress Testing Communications:**

The USFR will ensure that all communication systems perform optimally under the stress of an invasion, maintaining command and control across various layers of defense.

**__Structure of the Drills:__**

The drills are structured to cover every aspect of the defensive installations in the Raj:

- **Phase One: Perimeter Breach Simulation:**

This phase will test the outermost defenses, including the effectiveness of minefields, trenches, and sniper nests in slowing or halting an enemy advance. Troops will practice repelling attackers using both direct and indirect fire from entrenched positions and fortified bunkers.

- **Phase Two: Air Assault Response:**

Simulated enemy air assaults will challenge the air defense systems. This will include deploying interceptor jets and activating SAM batteries and the missile defense web to engage incoming aircraft and missiles. This phase tests the radar and surveillance network's capacity to detect threats early and distribute information swiftly to response units.

- **Phase Three: Command and Control Maneuvers**:

Phase Three will focus on the command structure’s ability to control the flow of information and troop movements during an invasion. Includes real-time strategic decision-making exercises to adapt to dynamic battlefield conditions.

- **Phase Four: Counter-Attack and Regrouping Exercises**:

After repelling the initial invasion attempt, troops will practice counter-offensive maneuvers. This involves mobilizing rapid response teams, including armored and air mobile units, to exploit perceived weaknesses in the enemy's approach.

- **Phase Five: Long-Duration Siege Scenarios**:

Phase five will simulate prolonged siege conditions to test the sustainability and endurance of supply lines and the morale of the troops. This will ensure that logistical frameworks like stockpiling and underground networks are robust and fully functional.
**__Realism and Safety Protocols:__**

To ensure the realism of the drills, live ammunition and pyrotechnics will be used, replicating the chaos and intensity of an actual battle scenario. However, strict safety protocols will be in place to prevent injuries. The use of advanced simulators and virtual reality will also be integrated to provide diverse training environments and minimize risk.

**__Continuous Evaluation and Improvement:__**

Post-drill evaluations are critical components of the exercise. Each drill will be thoroughly analyzed by senior military strategists and external defense consultants to identify areas of improvement, adapt tactics, and upgrade technologies as needed. This continuous loop of performance, evaluation, and enhancement will ensure that the defense systems and troops remain at peak readiness.

Several state-of-the-art naval bases will be built as well. These installations will play a crucial role in enhancing the maritime defense capabilities of the USFR within and around the Raj, ensuring control and security over the surrounding waters and providing critical support for operations across all branches of the military.

**__Strategic Location and Design:__**

- **Location Choice:**

USFR naval bases will be strategically located along the coastline of the Raj, chosen for their tactical advantage and ease of access to international waters. These locations will provide the USFR Navy with the capability to project power across the region and respond swiftly to any maritime threats.

**__Naval Bases:__**

- **Infrastructure Design:**

Each base will be constructed with durability and functionality in mind, equipped to withstand potential maritime and aerial attacks. The designs include heavily fortified docks, advanced ship repair and maintenance facilities, and secure moorings for a variety of naval vessels, ranging from submarines to aircraft carriers.

**__Key Components of the Naval Bases:__**

- **Shipyard and Repair Facilities:**

Central to the naval bases will be the shipyard and repair facilities, capable of servicing a wide array of naval vessels. These facilities will ensure that all naval assets remain operational and can be quickly restored to combat readiness following any engagements or damages.

- **Logistics and Support Systems:**

The bases will house extensive logistics and support systems, including ammunition depots, fuel storage, and provisioning complexes. These facilities are critical for the sustained deployment of naval forces, especially during prolonged engagements.

- **Command and Control Centers:**

Each base will feature state-of-the-art command and control centers equipped with advanced communication and surveillance technologies. These centers will coordinate naval operations not only within the waters of the Raj but also integrate with broader military activities across the region.

- **Training and Simulation Facilities:**

To maintain the highest level of readiness, the bases will include comprehensive training and simulation facilities. These will provide naval personnel with the skills needed to operate in a variety of combat scenarios, from anti-piracy operations to large-scale naval engagements.

**__Defensive and Offensive Capabilities:__**

- **Air Defense Systems:**

The USFR recognizes the threat of aerial attacks, each naval base will be equipped with robust air defense systems, including surface-to-air missiles and anti-drone systems. These defenses will protect the bases from potential air strikes and surveillance attempts.

- **Maritime Surveillance:**

Advanced maritime surveillance systems will monitor sea traffic and detect potential threats at significant distances from the coast. This capability allows for preemptive action to neutralize threats before they can approach the naval bases or other critical infrastructure.

- **Quick Response Forces:**

The bases will host quick response forces, including special operations units and rapid deployment groups, ready to be dispatched at a moment’s notice. These forces will be for addressing emergent threats and providing assistance during maritime disasters or rescue operations.

In a course of events much-anticipated by the Sumori government, President Al-Hafez has convened the Cabinet to decide how to combat the Oil Crisis…

Cabinet Room
Presidential Palace

Jazaar stood at the window looking over the lawn below, sipping from a glass of extremely expensive liquor, particularly of eastern Sumori make. He turned and saw the Cabinet members filing in.

“Good, good. Take a seat, everyone.” Jazaar said, taking a seat at the far end of the table.

The Cabinet murmured and quited as they sat waiting.

“I believe it is time we begin to enact a proper response to the oil crisis. We have been silent for… far too long.” Jazaar said.

Others agreed and nodded.

“Now, on that note… I would like to open with a proposal, as follows:

One - we will give Haijja Oil and Gasoline authority to begin breaking through areas we suspect may still hold some amount of oil.

Two - Latiasan Energy gets rights to begin rapidly accelerating their construction of solar and fission plants.

Three - Dhurma Electromotives Inc. gets the rights to begin the construction of high-speed rail nationwide, scheduled for completion in the next five to ten years.

Four - The Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and the Interior will dispatch stimulus aid packages to the Sumori people numbering 6500 Chronus.

Five - The discontinuation of the Sumori Riyal must be undertaken, and it shall be replaced with the Sumori Dierham as our primary internal tender with the Chronus continuing to act as our reserve currency. The Riyal will have an exchange rate of 1000 Riyals per every 1 Dierham due to the inflation behind the Riyal.

Six - We will begin to import oil resources to lessen the effects of our depletion, but this will be very restricted to urge our transition to renewables.

Seven - Trade deals with several nations will be opened up to facilitate other fields, such as textiles, automotives, electronics, semiconductors, and so on.

Now, with that out of the way, we may begin, and may alter these terms as needed during this conference.” Jazaar said.

The Agriculture, Health, and Interior ministers raised their hands.

“You three? One at a time. Agriculture?”

“Yes… we can facilitate such needs, but we must address the potential for a famine or a lack of safe drinking water in this course of action. After all, the lack of our oil industry has greatly bankrupted the Sumori nation.” The minister said.

“We can add that to the list, importing strategic resources such as grain and other related products.” Jazaar said. “Health?”

“How will this stimulus package affect our funding?” the Health minister said.

“A minimal tax increase would see your funding raised by a negligible amount, if at all a positive.” Jazaar said. “Interior?”

“Well, I was going to bring up my own points, but the Health and Agriculture ministries have answered my questions.” the minister said.

“Good. Anyone else?” Jazaar said.

The economic minister raised their hand.

“Ah, Economy. I was waiting for you.” Jazaar said. “Please, proceed.”

“Okay… I'm going to start by saying that the Dierham is quite a brilliant idea on the part of this government, but I worry for its stability in the face of investors and the general public. We wouldn't want to have the Riyal repeat itself, would we? As for the conversion rates, I see no issue - exchanging the Riyal for such a little amount of the Dierham could backfire, but as of yet that remains to be seen. As for the trade deals, I see no issue. Thank you.” The minister said.

“Well… that was certainly enlightening, minister.” Jazaar said optimistically. “Anyone else?”

The room went silent.

“Well… I suppose we can begin implementing these reforms effective immediately after the National Assembly voting.” Jazaar said.

National Assembly Grand Chamber

The voting…

FOR the reforms proposed by the SUMORI CABINET AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED REPUBLIC, JAZAAR AL-HAFEZ: 467
AGAINST the reforms proposed by the aforementioned: 30
ABSTAIN from the reforms proposed by the aforementioned: 2
PRESENT (no vote): 1

With this landslide passing, the reforms could begin…

As promised, Haijja Oil and Gasoline was given rights to begin breaking open potential oil wells once more, but the efforts of finding these would take some time to yield any results. Latiasan Energy would begin to build solar and fission plants with more government subsidies being provided, Dhurma Electromotives began to construct plans on the building of state-of-the-art high-speed rail across Sumoriant. The Agriculture, Health, and Interior Ministries dispatched 6500 Chronus as a stimulus aid to the Sumori people - an act appreciated by many, though some wished for more. The Health ministry would see its funding increased marginally as a small tax increase was implemented, angering some but having no reaction from the majority of the Sumori population.

Most notably, Sumoriant would in the following weeks and months discontinue the Sumori Riyal, and implement the internal usage of the Dierham, exchanging 1000 Riyals for 10 Dierham, as well as beginning to import oil resources, though on a limited scale so as to promote renewable energy usage.

Trade deals with other nations would be opened, most notably Syrvostrovia, Lungha, the Rynese Confederation, the Austro-Germanic Union, the Republic of Wardency, the Peninsular Empire, and the Five Kingdoms. These deals would include buying nuclear-powered vehicles and other related products, alongside allowing companies like RobCo to set up shop in Sumoriant; solar materials and other electronics from Lungha, 25 starting dealerships from Gewitter and Ceratti from the Rynese Confederation, AI-accelerated semiconductors from Wardency, Refined reactor-grade thorium from the Austro-Germanic Union, grain from the Peninsular Empire, and textiles from the Five Kingdoms.

Overall, many in Sumoriant rejoiced in jubilation at the government's action to combat the ongoing economic crisis and begin recovery, but the road to prosperity would remain long, and take a lot of time to fulfill…

Wardency
Great Jenovah
The Austro Germanic Union
5 Kingdoms of Britannia
Lungha
Rynese Empire
SFRS Syrvostrovia