"In return..."
Simon clearly replied, "He demands that we tacitly acknowledge the legitimacy of the 'Liberation Forces' existence and activities in Northern Illigo, and cease all overt hostilities against the organization. Additionally, he expects us to engage in limited, controlled cooperation with the Russians and Persians in the intelligence realm and specific non-lethal military technology sectors."
He paused for a moment, allowing the impact of this "asking price" to fully sink in.
This was tantamount to acknowledging a state within a state, an uncontrollable warlord force.
The war room fell into silence once more.
Every high-level attendee was weighing the implications of Simon's words.
Some even momentarily questioned — which side was Simon really on?
However, such thoughts were fleeting.
After all, those in intelligence have many channels at their disposal.
The CIA previously collaborated with the 1515 Armed, let alone with someone like Song Heping?
