A previously top secret joint intelligence mission by New Sparta (represented by the Raegris) and DTA (represented by the Dinos) has reported back on the state of the Bolitic Confederacy and it does not make for pleasant reading if you are Bolitic. The report concludes that the Bolitic are unable to recover from their heavy loss in the ABBO-Bolitic War followed by the civil war after the death of Borca. The Bolitic Confederacy is virtually bankrupt and Emperor Melson is finding it increasingly difficult to keep a lid on discontent (and keep himself in one piece).
The reasons for the Bolitic inability to bounce back from defeat as they have in the past were also explored by the report. Unlike in previous conflicts the Bolitic were unable to swell their coffers with loot. They have also fallen behind peer opponents in many areas though the Utrek partnership has helped stem the gap somewhat (though this help has dried up as the Utrek face a renewed Mantae threat). A key problem the Bolitic face is the loss of so many senior Barons and veteran soldiers in the war and civil conflict. The cream of the Bolitic military machine was lost. Finally the report explores the decentralisation of the empire with the rival power base of Erinthorn which has diluted Bolitic power.
The report says that the Bolitic are in danger of becoming a third rate power though stubbornly refuse to accept it even though their shipyards remain idle due to lack of funds. If Melson is deposed then a radical new Emperor may decide the Bolitic need to go out in a blaze of glory and attack their enemies. Both the NS and DTA should maintain strong defences along the Bolitic border and monitor closely events on Castarian.
