Greek Government H.Q., Athens

Nikolaos Michaloliakos, Arkhigos of the Hellenes and right hand of King Pavlos, sat at his desk with two of his foreign advisers. His hands were tightly clasped, and his face tense.

"Any word from the Mexicans, and the other Catholics and Protestants?" Michaloliakos pressed.
"It seems they chose the Pacific route to transport their force. Goodness knows why, when we had offered them a base and supplies. Now they are overextended and will struggle to supply their force - not to mention the long, difficult struggle they will face fighting through Mesopotamia, even if they are not immediately repulsed."
"We must contact the Mexicans, and ask that they reconsider. We cannot join their war if they carry out their attack in a way that is likely to fail."



"We must also contact the Russians and Ethiopians, and discourage them from agreeing to a pact of non aggression with the Caliphate."

Deep in the first hive city of Antarctica, capital of the Coalition of Independent Antarctica and of the two underground cities that house the majority of its population, a large crowd was gathering before the central hall of the Great University. This building complex, along with being the foremost center of scientific and technological advancement in the Coalition, housed the Coalition's Parliament. Made up of the top scientists and inventors in the Coalition, the parliament met regularly to decide upon major problems such as where research was to focus in the Coalition (the answer almost always being the strengthening of building and agricultural techniques) and what supplies were in the greatest demand for scientific research. Today however was different. A meeting had been called into parliament for a different and very serious reason. This reason would be announced to the public now by none other than the Great Scientist of the Coalition, Doctor Issac Gregoros.

"Citizens of the Coalition, now is a time of great importance for the entire world. A decision was made recently that will have far reaching effects all across the globe. For today, the Parliament and myself have decided to act. We have decided to award the position of Chief Weapons Researcher to none other than General James Martin of the defense force of Hive City Beta for his marvelous success in developing a weapons system that can operate in the frozen wastes in summer and winter with a 8% increase in efficiency. Congratulations General Martin."

After a loud round of applause, the General in question walked up to the podium and began to speak.

"Thank you Doctor Gregoros, I will be sure to make use of the increased funding that comes with this position to further improve the weapons systems and the various defenses of the two great Hive Cities. I would also like to take this time to announce to the public the reason for thi important research. As you all know, defensive systems are of the utmost importance. Despite our ongoing defensive agreement with the United Kingdoms, we do not have the population to compete against the rest of the world militarily. While normally not much of a problem, it is with great sorrow i must announce that war has once more risen it's ugly head in this world and has a good chance of escalating. We will join those countries that have decided to embargo the warring nations and apply sanctions to the aggressors. The world was still recovering from the last World War just twenty years prior. Now, I will give the podium back to Doctor Gregoros."

"Yes, It is with great sorrow that I must affirm the words of General Martin. We will not enter this war willingly, but we do condemn it. This speech is being broadcast across the globe and let this be our answer to this new War. The world is still recovering from the last World War, do not let this become another. Regardless, the Coalition of Independent Antarctica will extend its open arms to any refugees of this war who wish to escape the devastation it will certainly cause. As with World War III, Any who come, regardless of gender, religion, race, or nationality will be accepted and expected to do all they can to better not only their own situations, but that of the entire Coalition, as we all will. You will be in good hands here, and so long as you pull your own weight, you will go far in the Coalition. Thank You."

With that, the Doctor stepped off the stage and along with the rest of those on it, returned to the Great Hall of the University.

Marshall Islands

The Mexicans were caught off guard by the sudden approach of an American fleet. Immediately upon viewing them, the Mexicans on board moved to defensive positions, fearing a battle this far out to sea and this soon in their departure. However, it soon hit them, the UTA fleet was in no way behaving agressivly, no, in fact, they offered a proposal, and the Mexicans were stunned to hear it.

"Am...am I hearing this right?" Admiral Iglesias asked the General standing next to him, "Why would the UTA ever wish to aid us?"

General Julilo Moreno, now a grizzled man who at the start of his military career fought in the Second Mexican-American War, was just as speechless as his companion. He appeared to be deep in thought, before he spoke once more. "Tell them we accept their offer"

"Sir...?" Admiral Iglesias started before Moreno simply silenced him. "If this attack is to be sucessful than yes. Our army is strong and armed with advanced equiptment, but the technological power of the UTA is exactly what we need to really cement a victory. So, we will accept their offer, and they will help with the assault.

"Yes sir," the Admiral replied before going to return the message to the UTA



Mexico City, Mexico Province

"So the Greeks want an Atlantic route?" Bureau Head Abarca asked to his advisors as they all nodded slowly.

Abarca snarlled as he paced up and down his office. "We cannot simply abandon the plan, not with us being so close to Sri Lanka, and with a new ally in the Pacific." Abarca continued angrily "Even if we do break through the Caliphate's Blocade of Gilbraltar, we have the damned GEC patroling the Mediterranian; its simply not possible."

"Not by conventional means, but maybe we could try something different," Abarca had a smile on his face as he immediatly contacted the Greek King.



Belize City, Guatemala Province
With the Request sent, the Mexicans launched a 30 ship fleet, consisting of 10 Destroyers, 5 Frigates, 10 Cruisers and 5 Submarines, towards the Strait of Gibraltar, to make good on the Greek's request, hoping for them to make good on theirs.

Unknown location in mainland China, President Shang's office.

Shang found himself staring blankly at the letter from the neo soviets. A grin began to form as his aid, Komori, walked in. She stopped in front of her glorious leader and forced her left arm out and speak, "Hail True Asia."

Shang rose his hand, repeating her words but with a much softer tone. "Komori, I am amuses but cannot bring myself to finish reading this garbage."

Komori held out her hand, "Shall I recycle this?"

He smiled, "It is not worthy of recycling. Please entertain me and read the last paragraph."

As she did, a frown crossed her lips. "Do they honestly believe it will do much good?"

Shang stood up and started to move but paused mid step and turned to her. "Lower trade taxes by 70%. Open our goods to Mexico and India's markets entirely. We control the sea lanes to Mexico. If Russia or any other nations halt or attack a ship. Destroy the aggressor."

Komori saluted once more and promptly left the room to meet with the ministers in charge of trade and relations. Shang sat back down, "Meddling northerners." He said before picking up his direct line to the military chief general.

"Deploy a battle group to the Arabian sea."

-----------------------------

True Asia news network. Broadcasting anywhere in the world.

A young Chinese woman steps onto the flight deck of a carrier.

"Hello, I am Muri Chang aboard the True Asia carrier 'il Sung, as it prepares for deployment to the middle east. I have been told it and elements of the fourth fleet are to commence relief operations." Over head, fighter planes buzz the carrier.

A crowd of journalists stood in the rain outside of the Prime Minister's residence, impatiently awaiting the Right Honourable Janet Bright's scheduled press conference. The cameras and microphones of the collected media were protected from the hearty downpour by an army of umbrellas, baring the corporate insignias of various news outlets: major and minor, domestic and foreign. A wooden podium was set up just outside the door, its face decorated with the coat of arms of the United Kingdom. A few of the press gathered were speaking into their cameras, preparing contextual messages and otherwise readying themselves for broadcast, testing their connections and so on. This background noise ceased immediately when the door to Number 10 swung open, and a tall, young woman of auburn hair stepped down from her home and office to approach the podium. A man in a black suit moved alongside her, carrying a Union Jack umbrella which he intended to protect her with as she spoke. Instead, the woman of her early thirties took the umbrella herself, gave a few quick words to the man, and then turned to smile at the gathered media as her guard stepped out of frame.

Janet Bright was something of a compromise. She was a centrist in her party, made leader after a tight three way race between a more conservative opponent, the son of an American immigrant who (it was hoped) could steal support away from the Republic Alliance's base, and a more progressive opponent, a self-made businesswoman from Melbourne that was considered among the Conservatives' further left candidates. Janet, most prominent of the party's moderates and the retiring former Prime Minister's Chancellor of the Exchequer, was the sensible, pragmatic choice. Since her inauguration she had become a political figure of unusual popularity due to her charm and sensibility. Though from a relatively prominent and largely irreligious family, Mrs. Bright was technically self made and technically a religious minority. The Brights were of Quaker nomination, including (in de jure terms) Janet herself. Her family's relative wealth was a boon to her only up until she'd left her home in Lancashire at 18 and moved north, to Scotland. It was there, in the long dilapidated Abderdeen, that Janet would found the business that had now grown to become the United Kingdom's largest energy company twice over: Brightside. Taking advantage of new advances in weapons technology and deploying them to advanced oil recovery, Janet had bought out most of the North Sea's largely unprofitable oil-laden sea floor and used her innovations to practically single-handedly restart the British domestic oil industry. The funds earned from the last few drops of the North Sea's petroleum wealth were then invested by Bright into green technology—chiefly solar and wind. The profits of this industry, mostly deriving from government subsidies, were then turned right back around and put towards what would become Brightside's crowning achievement: the fusion generator. The name 'Bright' would forever by synonymous with fusion. Not just nuclear, though, but also political; Prime Minister Janet Bright's greatest accomplishment thus far in her office had been the formal annexation of Australia and New Zealand into direct British sovereignty. She, and her party compatriots, hoped the success would not end there. She had many years left, and retained massive popularity at home and abroad.

Smiling sweetly in spite of the seriousness of the topic, Janet began, "It has been the popular desire of the British people, and therefore the formal desire of the British government, to avoid involvement in armed conflict whenever possible. This happy arrangement has made our country the stronger, and neither I nor any sensible man or woman in Westminster wishes for our splendid isolation to end. Notwithstanding the inexcusable past conduct of the government in Istanbul, there has simply been no cause for war, and the declarations made and laws broken by the belligerent states to the conflict now unwinding in the Middle East are flatly absurd." Janet's expression, posture and tone changed, becoming more authoritative as she continued. "No portion of the matter of international relations is an action to be undertaken in insobriety, least of all one which will end the lives of countless thousands and threaten the lives of countless millions. My heart is with those so many of those innocents who will now be made to suffer for their government's folly; it would be an equal folly, however, for me in my role as Prime Minister to involve Great Britain's brave protectors in foreign conflict, and in doing so force suffering upon the people of my own country. The United Kingdom of Great Britain shall play no military role in this war, and it is this nation's heartfelt sentiment that peace shall be achieved soon, and at minimal cost."

As Janet ceased speaking and paused, a chorus of journalists raised their hands, begging numerous questions on Mrs. Bright's foreign policy, among other things. Janet again smiled, and gave a small wave. "That will be all. There is much to do on the diplomatic side for me to give action to my words, and I believe I have been utterly clear in what sentiments I hold and why. Thank you all for very much for suffering the rain to hear me. Have a lovely day." Moving much more quickly than she'd entered, Janet returned the umbrella to her guard and entered 10 Downing Street once more. She hadn't lied—there was indeed much to be done.

As James was sitting at his desk reading about the reports coming in on the new wars and such of europe and africa all James thought was of america he could care less about what was happening half a world away. All he needed was a change to get some part of his country back. So as he stood up and looked out into the city below he knew what he had to do he just didn't know the time and so he sat back down and waited.

This is a personal letter to The Ethiopian people from Don Símon Salazar himself. I will not crowd this announcement with the usual nationalistic pomp my nation and myself usually use, this is comming directly from me. I would personally like to offer my deepest condolances to the Nation of Ethiopia and her people, and declare that today we, the people of Mexico, stand in solidarity with you in this time of tradgedy. I condemn the actions of the terrorist who commited this atrocity, and remind the Muslims of Ethiopia that this is not acceptable behavior, that you are lead by a great nation, one who gives you the freedom to practice your faith even if they are not of it. To transgress against them is like transgessing on your mother and father; and it shows a lack of good character and honor on your part, and I hope that you are not in support of this rogue man's actions, and that you will do the right thing and stand with your country through this turbulent event. We would also implore Ethiopia to investigate this man, and see if he is tied to the infamous Martyr Brigades of the Caliphate.

That is all, and may God be with you,
Don Simon Salazar, Emperor of Mexico

The Arabian Sea
The contingent of GEC naval vessels continued to glide forwards, coasting slowly through the vast, open blueness that surrounded the ten vessels. With any belligerent fleets still a distance aways, the submarines had surface, allowing their crews to stretch their bodies for a time before they were required to return to the depths of the ocean. It would be several days yet before any action had to be taken in regards to the approaching fleets. Despite their small size, the force hoped to act as a deterrent, risking the invitation of war with another nation if the Mexican or UTA ships open fired on the Confederation vessels.

---

To Fasilides Zaile,

On behalf of the Greater European Confederation, we, the Chancellors of the Confederation, extend our sympathies to you, your family, and your country. A tragedy such as this is detestable indeed, for it marks the end of a bright life and the reminder of the darker side of humanity. Were it not for people such as the man who killed your father, the world would be a much better place. Know that the Greater European Confederation stands with you, and that we ask you to investigate the situation fully before acting in a rash manner.

With heart,

Andrej Dusan and Karen Årud, Chancellors of the Greater European Confederation

---

Palermo, Italy, the Greater European Confederation

Vice Admiral Calio Sapienti crumpled up the orders sent to him by Rostock, realizing with all seriousness what the words meant. Just last night, the GEC's DEFCON had been raised to Moderate. And now they were at Substantial, requiring a readiness condition of at least 4 theater wide. He silently cursed the Mexicans for their foolhardy actions. If the reports were correct, Atlantic elements were moving somewhere. Only one location could be assumed. Reaching over to the telephone set next to his desk, Sapienti called his secretary and began to issue the necessary orders. Within several hours, a majority of the GEC's remaining Mediterranean fleet, including the two carriers left there, would be either ready to deploy within half an hour or patrolling the Mediterranean waters with even greater care. No belligerent could be let through. Of that they would make sure.

---

Rome, Italy, the Greater European Confederation

Thousands flocked in the massive square facing Saint Peter's Basilica, a throng of worshipers and news reporters competing for space and proximity. A light wind gusted through the congregation, chilling some, yet the general atmosphere kept most warm. It had been years since Pope Francis II had given a general address to the public, especially one as publicized as this. Dozens of major and minor reporting stations had sent correspondents once news of this event had leaked out into the world. As the glistening doors on the balcony of the great Basilica, a thunderous cheer erupted from many thousands of throats, exuberant at finally seeing their spiritual leader once again.

Pope Francis II stepped through, a stooped man of 62 with a kindly yet tired face, appearing to be in a constant state of concern over the matters of the world. Originally called Gustav Zellweger, he had heeded the calling of God decades ago, finding his true path in life. Now, in these trying times, God called upon him to ease the world's troubles. So he would try.

After the general hubbub subsided, he spoke into the microphones situated on the balcony, projecting his voice across the plaza. "Join me, brothers and sisters, in prayer, for last night the life of Zakariah Abraham Zaile was robbed by one of ill intent. Let us pray for his child, for his country." After a brief moment of silence, many of the men and women sending their own personal messages to God, Francis II cleared his throat. "While a tragedy, we must also look to the rest of the world. War brews as the United South Asian Empire and the Third Mexican Empire marches towards the Caliphate of Istanbul, bent upon exacting revenge in blood for the killings committed almost twenty years ago. The leaders of the Third Mexican Empire declare a crusade in the name of Christ, vowing to kill the Muslims of the Caliphate. Yet that is not the way of God, that is not the way of Jesus. Was it not said in Matthew 6:14-15 that: 'For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins?' Did they not say in Romans 12:17 to 'Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all?' Our brothers in Mexico go against this holy word, deceived by the evil of their government. I bid you, Catholics, Muslims, Hindus, and peoples of all race and creed, stand with me. Oppose this unholy war, and make the aggressors see the errors of the way. God be with you. Amen."

As Francis II turned back to walk inside, Saint Peter's Square exploded into clapping and cheers. It seemed that his old body yet had some good in it.

---

USAE MILLITARY REPORT
TIME:2016
LOCATION: EASTERN SUBURBS OF TEHRAN
FROM: MAJ. GEN. MUZAMMIL AYYAN
TO: H.M. SHAH ALAMGIR II

Sir, We have eastern the Eastern most suburbs of Tehran, and intend to continue our push west to confront the illegitimate caliphate. Our plan for civillian saftey is to allow 24 hrs. for cillian evacuation, and if civillians reach our lines, they will be given shelter and humanitarian aid. We shall commence drone attacks against government buildings in 15 minutes, and the ultimatum for Iranian forces to surrender stands until 0300 tomorrow morning. We've encountered little resistance from Iranian Armed Forces members, most surrendering after requested to do so, only a few skirmishes have taken place. Therefore I request his majesty allow them the fairest treatment, as I know his majesty will readily agree. I'm confident the next message his majesty will receive from me will be from the President's palace.

Your servant
Maj. Gen. Muzamil Ayyan

ADDRESS TO THE IRANIAN PEOPLE BY HIS MAJESTY SHAH ALAMGIR II

My brothers and sisters in Iran, it is with great dismay that we have been forced to occupy a brotherly muslim nation. But please lend me your ears. Many amongst you know that your government is simply a puppet state of the so called "caliphate". Your misguided government fuels this evil nation with the national resources of your beautiful country so that it may continue the killing, enslavement, and rape of millions of your shia brothers and sisters, and that of millions of other minorities. Remember the massacre of the shias of Lebanon, how can you sit idle while your government support the murderers of your children? This is why, my dear friends, we were compelled to free you from this puppet government, and to help liberate the lands and your people who are under the heel of the oppressors.

This, I promise you is not a permanent occupation. I swear on the Holy Quran that within 6 months of the defeat of the fake caliphate, free and fair elections shall be held, and the sovereignty of Iran restored.

FOR YOUR SAFETY I IMPLORE YOU:
Heed the instruction of our forces. Do not be afraid to approach our forces, they are your servants, your liberators, and your defenders. We shall provide you aid and shelter to the best of our ability. If you are a member of the Iranian Armed Forces, please, my brother, lay down your arms as your brothers from the USAE approach. We have no fight with you. With us, you will not receive the treatment of a POW, but that of a relative coming home. We also welcome you to join our ranks, fight for the liberation of your people! You shall receive equal pay and benefits of any other USAE service member

Your humble servant
SHAH ALAMGIR II

Cathedral of Guatemala City, Guatemala Province

The sound of bells filled the air as a grand procession of people made their way into the Cathedral. Today was a happy day, one marking the grand event that was transpiring on this day. Inside the beautiful Cathedral was none other than Don Salazar himself, dressed in his finest clothing, standing with an array of others before the altar. But today was not about him. It was far from that, because just now, was coming the woman of the day.

Today was the day of Isabella Ramirez's, the Bureau Head of Foreign Affairs, wedding. To none other than Don Salazar's son, Fernando. The couple would be wed in a very beautiful, and very catholic wedding. Once Miss Ramirez was standing before the altar with her future husband, the priest made his opening prayer.

Father,
when you created mankind
you willed that man and wife should be one.
Bind Fernando and Isabella
in the loving union of marriage;
and make their love fruitful
so that they may be living witnesses
to your divine love in the world.

We ask you this
through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

The wedding would commence as normal, with the usual singing and variety of prayers. All the while the people of Mexico were, in this one moment, no longer worrying about the troubles lying ahead of them, for in this moment all that mattered was the beautiful ceremony and the happy couple before them. The rings were exchanged, and the couple recited their vows, and the ending of the wedding came much to soon for everyone involved. And yet, in this moment they all felt a little bit better.

After the Wedding

"It just seems like yesterday that you were still that disgruntled teenager studying political science" Don Salazar said, laughing while exchanging memories with his long time associate. Isabella laughed back in turn.

"I was, what, 19 at the time, it was back in 2031, the war had just broken out and I was just so pissed with the Feds. I think I was just meant to fall in with the People's Alliance." she replied, smiling as she took a sip from her cup.

"Haha, I even remember when the Party meetings were still being done in my house and there were you, this little thing furiously debating with grown men over fascism and the best course of action." Don Salazar pointed to his son and chuckled as well, "And I remember after Fernando over there saw you for the first time and went up to talk to you. You must have still been heated up because I swear I've never seen the boy that flustered after talking to any girl."

Don Salazar then seemed to get quiet very fast, and then in a serious voice, he spoke once more to Isabella. "You see, Isabella, from the moment you joined our little party I knew you were destined for great things. And now, as I have seen your behavior in the face of the Caliphate War, I feel that I am making the right decision with this." Salazar then took one last sip of his drink before speaking again. "Isabella, I am giving an address to the public tomorrow before I leave for Ethiopia to attend Zakariah Abraham Zaile's funeral. And in that meeting, I am going to announce my successor. I am an old man, and I may not have much time left in this world before God decides I must die. And so, I want you to know that I am appointing you as my Successor."

Isabella was totally speechless

"That is, if you will accept it" Don Salazar proposed

"Of...Of Course Don Salazar"

The Emperor smiled at his new Daughter in Law, for long she had been like the Daughter he never had and now, though the Grace of God she had wed into his family. "May you and Fernando guide Mexico rightly when my time has come. And let God be forever with you both. Gloria al Nuevo Don Salazar y Donna Ramirez"

La Aurora International Airport
"People of the Glorious Nation of Mexico," Don Salazar was standing before a crowd of people, reporters, and just those who had wandered into the airport at the right time. "Today I leave for Ethiopia to mourn the death of a true servant of God, a man who I can only hope to spend an entire lifetime to become even a fraction as pious, Zakariah Abraham Zaile. I once again give my condolences to the Zaile Family, and may Zakariah be at peace with the Lord. The untimely death of Mr. Zaile had got me thinking about my own life, and who will follow after me once I am dead. Before I leave for Africa, I would like to make an announcement. I, Don Simon Salazar, am going to announce my successor. It was a long and difficult decision, but I am officially naming Mrs. Isabella Ramirez as my successor should my life come to an end."

As Don Salazar boarded the plane to Addis Ababa, he felt content, for the first time in a long while. He was very confident that Isabella and Fernando would be successful as leaders of the country. And who knows, perhaps they could even be better than him.

New Orleans, Louisiana, Senatus Populusque Americanus

Outside, thousands of Americans where standing to hear a speech from the Glorious leader Louis George King, the President of the Senatus Populusque Americanus and leader of the Nationalist Party. Today, he was going to talk about the recent events in Ethiopia and his thoughts on the attack against the Turks. The Cheering people in the crowds show that the lies voiced by the government in the Senatus Populusque Americanus has worked and that they shall follow the great President. Louis walks out and faces the crowd and they all do the national solute, raise there right hand onto there heart and there left into the sky at a Ninety Degree Angle!

"My Fellow Americans, today, you shall all know my thoughts on the recent events in Ethiopia and the Crusade against the Caliphate of Istanbul. The Murder of Zakariah Zaile was a horrible event, and that the person who sent the Assassin to do this deserves to be crucified and burnt in the middle of the most populated City on Earth While naked. I send my condolences to Fasilides and all Ethiopians, Zakariah was a great man, and may he be by God for all of Eternity. That though, is not all that I shall talk about today, recently, a Crusade against the Caliphate of Istanbul was called, and while I did not support it originally, I now see the Brutality of their followers and they must be destroyed. If anyone calls on me to join the war, I will, and I will make sure that they will be destroyed!"

The Crowd yells in Approval of what has just been said.

---

"Tsar Putin, we've recieved intelligence that the Mexican fleet has already reached the Marshall Islands." an analyst told him as he entered the war room."

The Tsar shook his head. "We cannot afford to wait any longer. Send the Pacific Fleet, confront them before they reach India. Top speed."

"It shall be done." the officer replied. "Shipments of weaponry have begun to the Islamic Republic of Iran and to any fighters who seek to oppose the South Asian imperialist aggression. Anti-air rockets are their particular favorites, they love shooting down enemy helicopters and occasionally the unlucky fighter."

"That is excellent," replied the Tsar. "We must exploit the division between Sunni and Shia, show them that they are the enemies despite all their appeals to the contrary. Soon, they will regret ever stepping foot in Iran."

Address to the People of Iran

"Citizens of the great nation of Iran, you must not listen to the propaganda of the empire which is even now trying to conquer you. They promise elections, they promise liberation from the Caliphate. But I say to you, actions speak louder than words. And what do their actions show you?"

"Towns bombed to ashes, children gunned down by their fighters. This is not a humanitarian venture, this is an invasion. Why would a Sunni empire respect the proud Shia tradition of Iran? They will try to convert you, to assimilate you into their country. They offer an olive branch with a gun barrel sticking out. I ask you, resist them with all of your might. Make them regret their imperialist and aggressive actions. The workers and peasants of the Soviet Empire, Muslim or not, stand in solidarity with you." The Tsar saluted the camera, and the broadcast ended.

"Yes, the assassination will definately act as a catalyst for conflict," said Folami Sow, nodding towards one of the governors attending the meeting. "In addition-" suddenly, the doors burst open and and a small group of armed men entered rushed into the room and aimed their weapons and Folami Sow. "What's the meaning of this?" asked the president. "We demand to speak to the president about our military," said one of the soldiers angrily. "We refuse to take orders from those Nigerian scum."

"I understand your anger, but what right do you have to barge in here with weapons? Put your guns down! I will discuss the issue, but not like this!" said President Sow, grasping the barrel of one of the guns that had gotten particularly close to him and pointing towards the floor.

But right now Thought Folami Sow I need to go to Germany.

Thessaloniki Airport, Greece

Arkhigos Nikolaos Michaloliakos of Greece stood upon the steps into his personal jet, his face turned towards the crowd swarming across the runway. His bodyguards looked disgruntled, but Michaloliakos revelled in the attention. The King peered back from the doorway of the plane.

"My friends," the Arkhigos began, his voice rolling across the airport. "I depart now for Ethiopia, to mourn with our friends over the unjust and cruel murder of their Emperor. He was killed by an Islamic extremist, no doubt affiliated with that great evil, the Caliphate. I urge you to mourn with us, and pray with the Patriarch of Greece, Archbishop Ieronymos, for the people of Ethiopia. His Majesty the King has declared tomorrow a day of nationwide mourning for the late Emperor." Turning in genuine sadness, he ascended the remaining steps and vanished into his aeroplane.

Istanbul, Inside the Caliphate's palace, TOP SECRET MEETING

The Caliph stood in his war-room surrounded by all of his closest advisor staring at the map. The world had increasingly become more hostile towards the Caliphate after the sudden declaration of war by the Mexicans. The USAE joined the bandwagon and the UTA also seemed to be Sailing towards the Caliphate. The Mexican warmongering was extremely dangerous because it increased religious tensions between Muslims and Christians all across the world.

The minister of defense Ahmed Marcaguz was the first to break the silence. “With the ever increasingly hostile attitude of Ethiopia the Caliphate is getting surrounded by enemies. I do believe now that an even more Christian extremist dictator has ascended power in Ethiopia they will be looking out for an opportunity to invade. Also Hellas with their ancient Greek fetish will pose a treat. After-all they feel they have a historical claim on our lands. With the USAE marching through Iran and Mexico sailing in by sea we risk a multi front war I propose that we should show our resolve to protect the Islam in full force by preemptively launch a full scale nuclear strike against Hellas and Ethiopia. Turn both countries into nuclear waste land and we will have two less fronts to worry about. Also we should use sub launched ICBMs to strike against all major cities Mexico and India.”

For a moment there was utter silence in the room as the men all plucked their long beards and thought about the proposal to unleash a full scale nuclear war. “Are you Insane?” Responded the Caliph. “If we unleash nuclear weapons we will get nuclear retaliation and fail at our goal of protecting the Caliphate and its inhabitants. It should be our last resort. But I agree, we should avoid a multi-front war at all costs”

Hassan Al-Jahani, leader of the Martyr Brigades spoke up. “We have sleeper cells all across the world laying dormant for times like this. In the USAE alone many tens of thousands follow the Sunni faith are ready to strike at their false leaders and Hindu oppressors. The same goes for Ethiopia and even in Mexico we got supporters. Religious terrorism has been on an all time low since the end of the Arabic war. I guess the world wants to return to the times of the early 2000's”

The Caliph spoke one more. “We will attempt once more to form a non-aggression pact with Ethiopia but we will keep an contingency plan in the back. If they refuse we will need to destabilize their country and cast it down into civil war between Muslims and Christians. We will also active all of our sleeper cells from Iran to India and start a campaign of terror against their government and increase religious tensions between Muslims and Hindu's. Furthermore we will have to act against the combined Mexican and UTA fleets. I propose we launch operation water-pipe. Also we must make sure that we strenghten our relations with our neighbors. We will humbly accept their offers. Furthermore we start with a full scale mobilization of armed forces, reserves and men in fighting age. With more nations becoming more beligerent to us this war will be one for the survival of Islam.”

















A new broadcast from Al-Jaazera world news hit the ether. “This is Ahmed Al-Himid speaking live from Istanbul where the mobilization is in full force. As you can see behind me there are extremely long lines in front of this recruitment station. Just look at that line. There must be at least a thousand young men waiting in line here for their chance to defend the Caliphate against the aggression of the USAE and its allies. All across the country you see the same images. Long lines of young men waiting for their turn to assign themselves into the Caliphate's army. “ Colonel Karagilmez of the Calphates armed forces recruitment divisions joins us for a short interview”

Reporter: “Colonel Karagilmez, how much potential recruits are coming to your stations?”

The Colonel” “All across the country potential recruits find their way to our recruitment stations. Everybody in the Caliphate knows that our way of live is under severe treat. If we lose this war even slightly, millions of Muslims will once again be oppressed and no longer be able to practise their fate the way Muhammed showed them.”

Reporter: “You still haven't given me a number Colonel”

The Colonel: “We're talking about millions or even tens of millions of men coming to our stations. Some even take with them their own rifles just to show their commitment to fight off the invaders. “

Reporter: “ Do all these men make it into the army?”

Colonel: “Of course not. Not everyone is fit for duty but we expect to increase the size of our armed forces very significantly in on the short term. But before you ask, numbers are classified”

Reporter: “Thanks for your time Colonel Karagilmez. As you can see, the Caliphate of Istanbul is preparing to fight to the last man standing”

As James sat in the council chamber. Each of his advisors talking amongst themselves James just thought. He finally stood up and said "For too long we've been surrounded by fascists." James then looked over to his friend and Chief of the Military. "General Oscar, prepare the invasion. we will strike and at midnight. In the mean time begin scouting the borders. No one outside of this room shall know who we plan to attack or when just get the men near the border and wait for orders." With that everyone stood up and walked out the room they all knew who was first on the hit list. After they all left James turned around and returned to his office and looked out the window. He then spoke to himself. "Today will be known as Phoenix Day... The eagle shall rise from the ashes and return to former glory." He then went to his office and saw a message from the GEC. Looks like he won't have to time to go. Unless this war would be easier than he thought.

Daifallah Mir sat in his chair, silently brooding over the recent events that had unfolded. The idea that the world around him is just now beginning to fall apart so close to elections was intimidating to say the least. If he could not prove that Nigeria is still a powerful political factor in world government than he would most likely lose the campaign to Hamidi, or even worse Waheed.

There was a light knock on the door to his office followed by the president quietly grumbling “Come on in.” The door silently opened, and the Chief general of the republic of Nigeria, Badr Hussain. A close friend of Hamidi, but arguably the second best man for the job to Hamidi himself. Nigeria had a long history of being ruled by Military Juntas who chose a successor or where overthrown by them, and Hamidi logically chose the only man who posed a threat to his rule as his successor, Hussain.

“The Emperor of Ethiopia has just recently passed, and his son, a young man, has taken power in Ethiopia as you may already be aware.” Daifallah Mir nodded slightly in both agreement and to urge him to continue. “As you are also aware it seems that a Muslim extremist was responsible for his death. A most…” He paused for a second, before continuing “unfortunate turn of events. It is safe to assume that the boy will not take kindly to Muslim, especially Sunni countries and allies. It is almost just as safe to assume that he could possibly declare war on the Caliphate, ignoring previous assurances given to our country.”

Mir let out a deep sigh. “I am well aware of the political ramifications of the recent murder of Emperor Zakariah, and the hate that his son may hold in his heart.” He silently stood up, and began to pace around the office. “Either way though we must maintain political dominance in this situation, or not only will the my presidency, but the very future of the entire damned country will be at stake.”

“Also one more thing.” Hussain quickly shouted before Mir had a chance to escort him outside of the office. “It seems the United States of Africa, that small minor with more Nigerian guns than it deserves, is displeased with us. They fear that we are going to march into their country and strip away their military, and albeit I have half the mind to if the continue these obsured theories.”

“Even if we do, than it is one more political enemy that we can’t afford. Integrating them is much better than conquering them, they have already fought back our military in the past, why go out of our way to start another unnecessary war?” He stopped, and finally sat back down once again. “We need to focus on one problem. Assure the USA that they can keep what guns they have, as long as our military remain in charge of them and we maintain a healthy grip on their countries education.” Hussain simply nodded and began to leave.