The operation in Timber was a success. It had been more than easy to invade the military base after the bombs had been dropped. The people had come to see what's happening and Zone and Watts had started giving weapons to them, encouraging them to drive the Galbadians out of the city. Most of the soldiers had escaped from the city and people had declared the country independent.

This all was very troubling for the government of Galbadia, although President Deling didn't think about that when he was getting ready to go to work.

"I'll try to get back early," he said to his wife and children before he left. His private limousine was already waiting for him in the yard. The driver smiled politely and opened the door for him.

Deling City was such a beautiful place in his opinion. Unfortunately its inhabitants didn't have as good president as they deserved. The president had never liked the way his father, Vinzer, used to lead the country. After Edea had killed Vinzer Deling during the parade, his only son, Garett Deling, had taken over his job. When he had kept his first speech to the public, he had talked about how he would make Galbadia a free, democratic country. But only because of a little mistake, he couldn't keep his promises.

"Miss Juliette is waiting in your office," a secretary said to him when arrived in Presidential Residence. His day was now ruined. Juliette was the last person he wanted to meet.

This beautiful redhead was sitting on Garett's chair, wearing her short red dress and an expensive diamond necklace, as usual.

"Good morning, Garett," she said with her cold voice.

"Yeah, yeah. What do you want?"

"Just a little favor. I want you to recognize Timber's independence."

"What?"

"You must understand... if you are going to continue your little war with Dollet, now when it's allied with Balamb and Esthar, you cannot afford to send any soldiers to take care of that rebellion in Timber."

"It's out of question! No way! I won't do it!"

"That's your decision. But I wonder what your wife will say when I tell her about our night together..."

"Phew... how long are you going to keep blackmailing me?"

"Just as long as I need. Now, will you do as I say?"

"Yes."

"That's a good boy."