Boris & Brian - A Bulgaria Road to 56 AAR

[jak7139]

Hello everyone and welcome to my second AAR! I played through this save file a couple months back, so no abrupt end due to crashes this time. I hope you all enjoy it. Any feedback you have is greatly appreciated.

I've written a few chapters in advance, so I hope to update this once, maybe twice, a week.

Why Road to 56? When I played this, I didn't have any of the DLC, and I'd heard Road to 56 gives pretty much every nation a focus tree. So I decided to try Bulgaria like this rather than spend some money.

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Chapter One: The Dream​

We start high above a sparkling city with lights. The cool late-night air ensures there is no sound as we descend. Yes, dear reader, it is in fair Verona that we lay our scene. And as we ride towards it on the wind…What’s that? What do you mean, “Wrong script?” Oh. Clears throat. Right, it is not towards fair Verona (warm, sunny Verona sigh) that we travel, but towards the city of Sofia Bulgaria. The city sleeps, but all is not calm. Let us descend to find out why.

In a room, inside a palace, within Bulgaria, a man sleeps. But this sleep is not peaceful. This man is having a nightmare. Explosions rack his brain, as he stirs. Bullets, screams, the sounds of war. Now, something else cuts through the noise.

“a date which will live in infamy,” says a voice.

Boris stirs some more.

“We shall go on to the end…defend our…never surrender,” says another.

He mumbles, struggling against his dream.

“men are tired of liberty,” says a third.

He tries to open his eyes. If he could just wake up, the dream would stop.

A fourth voice: “the Great Crusade…The eyes of the world are upon you…people everywhere march with you”.

His eyes…must…try to open. The Tsar thinks.

Then comes a knock at the chamber doors, rousing Tsar Boris III of Bulgaria from his slumber.

“Wake up! Wake up my Tsar! You’ll be late for the cabinet meeting!” Brian chimed before opening the doors. He walks over and begins pulling the sheets off the still groggy Tsar. “Come! Come!”

“Ugh, what time is it, Brian?” Boris says, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and the sweat from his forehead.

“Time for the cabinet meeting. With the New Year upon us comes new responsibilities. It’s an important job, being the Tsar. I’ve honestly no idea how your father handled it.”

Boris barely hears his aide’s reply. That dream, what could it mean? An infamous date? What must he defend? And a Crusade? Boris contemplates.

“Brian?” Boris asks “What’s on the agenda for today’s meeting? Will it take very long?”

Brian flashes a carefree smile as he fluffs a pillow, “Oh, just some news from our intelligence my Tsar. Nothing much. After all, how can you run Bulgaria without staying up to date on the latest in foreign affairs? Why?”

Boris sits for a moment on his bed, thinking. “I have an announcement to make. As well as a plan”. The Tsar then gets up and walks out of his bedchambers without a backwards glance, a steely gaze in his eyes, a fire in his heart, and a fresh sheen to his forehead.

Brian, surprised by Boris’ sudden movement, struggles to catch up to his liege’s jog. “Boris! Wait…stop! A plan for what?”

Brian catches up to Boris outside the palace. Birds chirp from somewhere in the trees, signalling the day’s dawn. The courtyard’s fountain spouts water, which splashes calmly on its marble basin. Boris stands by the fountain, allowing his aide to arrive. He turns around and faces Brian, “Brian, do you trust me?”

Brian catches his breath before proceeding, “Of course, Boris. As much as you trusted me with your life during the war. As much as your father trusted me with it as well. I’ve always trusted you, ever since our childhood”. Brian stops for a moment and studies the Tsar, “There’s something different about you. I haven’t seen you this determined since…”. He pauses, searching for the right words. “Since your father was forced to abdicate at the end of the war. You were determined to lead Bulgaria to a brighter and better future. And then…” a conflicted look comes over his face.

“And then?” Boris urges, an eyebrow raised.

“And then…life moved on. We all moved on, even you. But now…I don’t know how to describe it, you’re…back. Tell me, Boris, what happened?”

“Come. Let’s walk together and I’ll tell you.”

The two of them went from the palace to the government offices. And along the way Boris told Brian about his dream. About the voices. Then finally, he offered up his interpretation:

“I must lead Bulgaria against this ‘Crusade’, and the only way to do that is to secure Bulgaria’s borders, its people, and it military. You said it yourself, ever since my father’s abdication I wanted to ‘lead Bulgaria to a brighter and better future’. I just didn’t know how. Now I will do it.”

“But Boris, why now?” Brian asks.

“Because I feel it. The world is changing, something big is on the horizon.”

“I don’t disagree with you, I’ve felt something too, but the cabinet…they’ll never go along with this!”

“I’m the Tsar aren’t I?” Boris chuckles, “Of course, they’ll support me. And if they don’t, the people will. Now, let’s go address the cabinet, shall we?”

“Um…Boris?” Brian asks tentatively.

“Yes Brian?” the Tsar playfully rolls his eyes.

“Shouldn’t you address them in something more than your pajamas?”

“Ah. You’re quite right Brian” Boris lets out a laugh, “What would I do without you?”

“I don’t know, my Tsar.” said Brian, joining in the laughter, “Now let’s find you some clothes.”

And so, our two protagonists go off to find some clothes for the Monarch, before too many people wake up. Now, how they found these clothes, dressed the Tsar, and somehow still arrived on time for the cabinet meeting, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the Kings of Bulgaria? Therefore, don’t worry about that too much. This is a story, I’m the narrator, and what I say goes. Now, go away all of you! I need a break (Oh if only this story was set in Verona, sweet, sweet Verona!).

 

[RustyHunter]

I really liked this beginning! The dialogue is quite nice and gets information across while still leaving something to think about. I'm already enjoying our protagonists and look forward to how they will develop while the narrator is a lot of fun.

I'm glad to see you write a new AAR, and I get to follow along with this one live!

Why Road to 56? When I played this, I didn't have any of the DLC, and I'd heard Road to 56 gives pretty much every nation a focus tree. So I decided to try Bulgaria like this rather than spend some money.

I'll be curious to hear what you thought of Road to 56. It looks pretty cool, but I have no idea what all is in it.

 

[jak7139]

The dialogue is quite nice and gets information across while still leaving something to think about. I'm already enjoying our protagonists and look forward to how they will develop while the narrator is a lot of fun.

Thank you! I was really hoping the dialogue came across well.

I'll be curious to hear what you thought of Road to 56. It looks pretty cool, but I have no idea what all is in it.

Gives all of the nations shown below a focus tree, and a lot of the Vanilla trees are replaced with completely new ones. Extends the "end" date to 1956, adds new laws/government mechanics, and adds a new section to the tech tree.

Spoiler

Also, here's a link to the mod on Steam.

 

[RustyHunter]

Gives all of the nations shown below a focus tree, and a lot of the Vanilla trees are replaced with completely new ones. Extends the "end" date to 1956, adds new laws/government mechanics, and adds a new section to the tech tree.

That is quite impressive and looks really well done! Will you be mentioning mod features like I did for HPP, or are you more focused on the story? I'm fine with either decision and look forward to the coming adventures.

 

[jak7139]

That is quite impressive and looks really well done! Will you be mentioning mod features like I did for HPP, or are you more focused on the story? I'm fine with either decision and look forward to the coming adventures.

I think the style of this AAR means that the mod/gameplay will be firmly in the background. Though if you have any ideas, let me know.

 

[RustyHunter]

Though if you have any ideas, let me know.

No, that sounds like a really good way to do it! I'll just ask questions if anything in particular interests me.

 

[jak7139]

Chapter Two: The Cabinet’s Reaction​

Ah, hello, hello all of you and welcome back! When we last left our story, the Tsar and his aide were off to find some clothes before that morning’s meeting. Having successfully completed said task, we now pick up inside a conference room where they have just revealed the reason for their lateness to the assembled cabinet and—oh! I think I hear shouting, that must be the cabinet’s response. Let’s listen in, shall we?

“This is preposterous!” Georgi Ivanov Kyoseivanov, the Minister for Propaganda, shouted. “We cannot simply rearm on a whim. What will the British and French say!? Not to mention we lack the sufficient military infrastructure to produce equipment on a large scale, as well as the propaganda apparatus necessary to instill the proper amount patriotism in our soldiers and citizenry. We simply cannot.” Georgi stopped his tirade with a satisfied nod and sat back down in his chair.

Before Boris or Brian could react to the Minister’s statement, another member of the cabinet rose to speak.

“Agreed,” Colonel Nikola Hadzipetkov stated, standing up from his chair. “While I’m sure we all would love to see a strengthened Bulgaria, we don’t have any of the tools necessary to train or equip new troops. As Bulgaria’s leading Military Theorist, it is my job to keep up to date with the latest technologies. And right now, we don’t have enough industry to produce what the major powers are making on any reasonable scale. Wouldn’t you agree Lukov?” he gestured to the seated official.

The Minister for Industry remained seated for not a few moments and was closely examining his fingernails. After a while he stopped and, with a snide look at Hadzipetkov, made a great show of getting out of his chair.

“While I suppose we don’t currently have the ‘industry’ or ‘propaganda apparatus’,” Lukov started, eyeing each Minister coldly. “We can always build up our infrastructure. Or take it from those too weak to defend it. The Tsar is right!” he slammed his fist down on the table “Bulgaria is at a crossroads, and we must act! And if you are not an ally, then you are an enemy!” He gave everyone one last look, nodded respectfully to the Tsar, then sat back down.

The silence that followed bit into the hearts of each of the assembled Bulgarians. The Ministers, each initially shocked by Lukov’s declaration, started to eye each other warily and mumble. Thankfully Brian was quick to recognize the trouble.

“Well then!” he cut in before any fights broke out, “I’m sure we all wish for a strengthened Bulgaria. After all, we’re all Bulgarians, aren’t we?” He eyed some members in mock-suspicion then let out a bit laughter that was a bit too loud. Boris joined in the laughter, which caused the rest of the cabinet, except for Hadzipetkov and Lukov who were glaring at each other, to emit some nervous chuckles.

Minister of State, Bogdan Filov, was the first to speak after the laughter had died down.

“I agree with the Tsar and his Aide. Bulgaria will rebuild and restore her former glory. I’m sure we can accomplish much given time. Now, if there is nothing else may I suggest we adjourn this meeting and let each Minister head to their respective departments to gather a full report for our illustrious Tsar. And, of course, our Generals and Field Marshalls aren’t even at this meeting. It was assumed this meeting would be something routine, not a major debate. Let us reconvene in a week, and hear from our Generals, as well as those Ministers who have not yet had a chance to speak.”

Everyone nodded thoughtfully at Filov’s sage advice, although Lukov and Hadzipetkov were likely scheming on how best to one-up one another at this future meeting. The Ministers, Military, Boris, and Brian would all be back in one weeks’ time. They would all be ready to decide Bulgaria’s future…

…Idiots, I lend my voice to their network eight hours a day and they can’t even give me a week’s vacation time. I knew I should’ve taken Frank’s advice, “Don’t do it”, he said “Worst choice of my career”. Ah well, least the Coffee’s good…Oh, pardon me, I didn’t realize we were back! They can edit this bit out, can’t they? Clears throat. So, reader, you’ve seen what the initial reaction has been to this plan of Boris’ making. He’s got quite the battle ahead of him, hasn’t he? But, if I may spoil something, his plan will pass because—and this is the important bit—he’s the monarch. It also doesn’t hurt that there would be no story otherwise. Bye for now and see you next time!

 

[RustyHunter]

Excellent, we already have some inter-cabinet rivalries! Those are always fun, and I'm sure this one won't disappoint. I'm also really liking the narrator since it's a bit irreverent and adds some comedy.

 

[jak7139]

Excellent, we already have some inter-cabinet rivalries! Those are always fun, and I'm sure this one won't disappoint. I'm also really liking the narrator since it's a bit irreverent and adds some comedy.

While I was writing notes and an outline for how I wanted this to go, the rivalry wasn't something I thought of. It just sort of happened as I started writing because I wanted to give each Minister a trait/moment so they would each feel unique. Glad you like it!

The narrator's what I am most proud of in this. I was inspired to write him like this based off the narrators of a couple of books I'd read last semester, so I'm glad you enjoy him!

Also, what do you (and everybody else) think of images? I haven't included any so far because I don't think the story needs it, but if you feel differently let me know.

 

[RustyHunter]

I honestly hadn't even noticed you didn't include pictures, so I'd say prose only is working very well!

 

[jak7139]

Hey everyone! The 2021 Yearly End of the Year AwAARds are going on now. Go vote for your favorite AAR's and Authors from this past year!

 

[jak7139]

Chapter Three: The Meeting ​

We’re back and it’s that time again to join our Bulgarian monarch and his aide in their story. The assembled Ministers, Military, and staff have all just finished filing into the conference room, so let’s enter as well. Now let’s see, what do we have here?

Everyone sat beside a long, stately conference table. Each of the Ministers sat along one side, while the Military Staff sat along the other side. The groups made nine and five, respectively. Curiously, a chair was empty on the Ministers’ side, though no one seemed to notice. Tsar Boris sat at the head of the table and was wearing his finest military uniform. Brian stood beside him, ready to attend to his monarch and to mediate the discussion should things become heated. Boris stood up to address the room.

“You all know why we’re here,” He began. “We need to decide Bulgaria’s future. I have a plan to bring Bulgaria into the modern age and regain our strength!” he paused for emphasis, “But in order to enact this plan I need to know where things stand. That is what you, my loyal Ministers and Military, are here to divulge.”

He nodded to Brian, who continued, “The Civil Ministers will go first, followed by the Military Ministers, then our Military Staff will speak. After the Tsar has considered your advice, he will make his decision. Minister Kyoseivanov, you shall go first.”

Tsar Boris nodded his approval and sat back down as the Minister for Propaganda stood to speak.

“Well, my Tsar, I thank you for the introduction.” He blinked rapidly at Boris and stared at him, perhaps trying to gain some sympathy or recognition. When, after several seconds of silence, it became clear that everyone was, instead, waiting for him, he continued.

“As stated by myself and my colleague Hadzipetkov at our previous meeting, we simply do not have the infrastructure to conduct a modern war in any real capacity. Were we to begin building our nation to such a state, the British, French, and even the Soviets would see it as a threat. And, after the destruction of the last war, they would be eager to quash anyone trying to challenge their hegemony. I implore you, my fellow Ministers to not let our glorious, infallible Tsar go through with his plan. It would be a mistake.” Kyoseivanov sat back down, satisfied he had made his point.

The next Minister to stand was Bogdan Filov. “Thank you for that fine speech, Minister Kyoseivanov. I’m sure the Tsar has taken it to heart.”

At this, Filov let out a chuckle, and the Tsar smiled lightly at the joke. Kyoseivanov sniffed but was otherwise expressionless. The rest of the cabinet looked at each other, and a few were brave enough to smile.

Filov continued, “While the Great Powers may have taken an interest in any build up ten years ago, times have changed. There have been coups in Italy and Germany, coups that would, according to your argument Kyoseivanov, threaten their hegemony. Our diplomats tell me of tensions in China, of war in Ethiopia, yet the British and French do nothing? It has been eighteen years since the war that shook the world. The war shook it but did not rouse the world from its bed. Take the Americans for example. They espoused self-determination at Versailles, but remain isolated on their continent, content to let Europe rot. The Bulldog and the Poodle have claimed more territory for themselves in this chaos, but they remain shattered after the Great War. All it would take is one push for the whole vase to break. If Bulgaria is to survive that push, we must be with the hand that does it, rather than remain trapped on the vase ourselves” Filov gestured to Lukov and sat back down. The Minister for Industry rose and only said this.

“As Minister Filov says, we must be the hand that pushes the vase. Any who remain trapped inside the vase will break by Bulgaria’s hand. And I would hate to have to clean up that mess.” In this last bit, he directed his eyes at Hadzipetkov and smiled with relish before sitting back down.

Hadzipetkov stiffened but, for the most part, seemed unmoved by Minister Lukov’s threat.

Brian gestured that it was now the Military Ministers’ turn. The first to rise was the Chief of Airforce, Vasil Vulkov. He was not the least bit short, an effect that was made more obvious because of his clothes, an aviation uniform that made his wrists and ankles visible.

He cleared his throat for several moments before saying, “I support this plan” then he sat back down. The look on his face was one of a philosopher deep in thought.

When it became clear that Vulkov was not going to say anything else, Boris, Brian, and the rest of the Ministers decided to not disturb him and carried on.

The next Minister scheduled to speak was the Chief of Army, Vasil Boydev, but as he rose the rest of the Military Ministers, besides Vulkov, rose with him and jointly declared that Col. Hadzipetkov would speak on their behalf about any Military matters. Boydev then said, “We are sorry, my Tsar. It is not that we don’t believe in your plan, but we are all old men and tired of war. Hadzipetkov, as our nation’s theorist, is up to date on the latest technologies and tactics. We will do whatever he advises, or you order, but for information look to him”. The Ministers sat back down to allow Hadzipetkov to speak.

“I thank my fellow Ministers for their confidence in this matter. That they trust so much in me is truly heartening” Hadzipetkov began. “As stated before, I do not agree with this plan or think it feasible. But, as Lukov so eloquently put it at our last meeting, anyone who is not with Bulgaria is an enemy” he flashed Lukov a smug smile. “And so, since I have been given this responsibility as your Chief Military Aide by my fellow compatriots, and since they trust me to advise you no matter the outcome, I have decided to support your plan. May you lead Bulgaria to new heights!” he raised an invisible glass, “Three cheers for the Tsar! Three cheers for Bulgaria! Hip-hip, hurrah! Hip-hip, hurrah! Hip-hip, hurrah!”

Most of the other Ministers and the Military, joined in on the cheering. Brian and Boris eyed each other for a moment with questions on their faces before Brian joined in on the cheers and the Tsar stood respectfully. Boris looked on with a smile at Hadzipetkov, but confusion in his mind. What is he up to? The Tsar thought. Three members of the Cabinet remained seated and didn’t join in on the cheering. Lukov and Kyoseivanov were rapidly discussing something over the shouting, while Vulkov was still contemplating whatever it was he was contemplating with a faraway look. Finally, with the cheers finished, Brian called the room to order.

“Alright, alright! Everyone to order! Now the Generals and Marshalls will speak.”

As each officer gave their speech, Boris feigned interest. Hadzipetkov’s stunt had worried him. He had opposed this plan before, but now he supports it, what’s his game? Finally, the speeches were over, and Tsar Boris gave his, unsurprising, verdict: Bulgaria would remilitarize and seek allies for the coming storm. As the Ministers and staff filed out of the room, Boris and Brian were left alone. Brian spoke first.

“What’s Hadzipetkov’s plan? Hijacking the meeting like that! He had to have planned it beforehand.”

“I know” said the Tsar “We’ll have to keep a close eye on him.”

“Well, that won’t be hard. He’s made himself your Chief advisor on Military matters, and it seems as though the Military supports him.”

“Yes…What is he up to?”

“Keep your friends close—”

“—and your enemies closer” Boris finished. “Let’s go get some lunch Brian.”

“And a drink?” Brian queried. “It’s been a long day.”

The Tsar laughed, slapping Brian on the back, “And a drink! Or two! On me!”

Brian laughed as well, wiping a tear from his eye. As they made their way out the door he remarked. “Hey Boris, do you feel like we’ve forgotten something?”

Boris paused for a second, “You know, now that you mention it, yes. But I can’t quite grasp it.” He mimed a grab with his hands, “Ah well! That drink will probably help jog our memories.”

“That it will Brian. That it will!”

As the two men strode out of the building to get some lunch, the thoughts of forgetfulness floated up into the air and away from our two characters. The wind took that thought to the east, to the coast on a cool breeze. There it floated down and down until it came to a small house by the sea. The wind brought the thought circling the house, until they found an ajar window. The wind whisked the thought through the gap, and the thought came to rest on the ears of a sleeping man. That man being, Ivan Variklechkov, Chief of Navy for Bulgaria. The wind had disturbed him slightly, so he yawned, yanked the covers off himself, and shut the window. Then he rolled over and went back to sleep. The thought, now separated from the wind, and seeing its plan to have the Navy be relevant fail, slowly fizzled out and died. The wind, who had tried and failed to force the window back open, saw the loss of its companion and drifted away to find help. And so, the Navy slept as Bulgaria moved forward into the future.

 

[RustyHunter]

He cleared his throat for several moments before saying, “I support this plan” then he sat back down. The look on his face was one of a philosopher deep in thought.

while Vulkov was still contemplating whatever it was he was contemplating with a faraway look.

Vulkov is my new favorite character!

That man being, Ivan Variklechkov, Chief of Navy for Bulgaria.

Gotta poke some fun at the least useful branch! Does Bulgaria have much of a navy in 1936 anyways?

Overall, I think you're doing a great job giving the ministers some personality while the dialogue and descriptions flow quite nicely. I continue to enjoy the narrator, and I think you're finding your stride.

 

[jak7139]

Vulkov is my new favorite character!

Glad you like him!

Gotta poke some fun at the least useful branch! Does Bulgaria have much of a navy in 1936 anyways?

Bulgaria didn't start with anything in the mod. Maybe they have something in Vanilla?

Overall, I think you're doing a great job giving the ministers some personality while the dialogue and descriptions flow quite nicely. I continue to enjoy the narrator, and I think you're finding your stride.

Thanks! I'm glad you like the story and that the characters are coming across well.

There probably won't be a chapter next week because of it being Christmas Eve. But I'll try to post two chapters the week after to make up for it. Thanks everyone for reaading!

 

[RustyHunter]

Bulgaria didn't start with anything in the mod. Maybe they have something in Vanilla?

IDK on that one, but apparently they only had 12 torpedo boats in OTL. Not big enough to be a unit in HOI4, so I guess your admiral won't be busy.

There probably won't be a chapter next week because of it being Christmas Eve. But I'll try to post two chapters the week after to make up for it. Thanks everyone for reaading!

I hope you have a nice Christmas, and I look forward to your next update!

 

[jak7139]

Author's Note: I decided to include some images for this chapter to provide some context. I put them in the spoiler tags so they shouldn't disrupt the narrative too much. There's nothing really important for the in them, it's just something extra for those who want it.

I also hope everyone had a great Holiday/Christmas/New Years!

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Chapter Four: The Beginning​

Hello, once again everyone! We’ve left Bulgaria at the end of that fateful Cabinet meeting, but now we pick up some three years hence. The world stands on the brink of a cliff, but where is Bulgaria in relation to the precipice, the top, the ledge, or the bottom? But of course, to decide this you need to be updated on the world’s situation. Well conveniently, Minister Filov is currently updating the Tsar and Brian on these matters—Why is he doing this? —well, you’ll see in good time.

“…It has happened just like last time. Europe at war all thanks to the Balkans.” Brian stared at the map, shook his head, and sighed. “Will we never learn?” he cast a weary glance at Boris.

The Tsar stood looking at the map as well. His face was hard and unreadable but determined. Suddenly he turned and faced Minister Filov, “What has been the reaction so far from the Americans? Will they join, especially now that Mexico has allied itself with the Germans and Italians?”

Spoiler: The Map

A few things to note:

• Albania is Greece's puppet.
• Greece and Yugo are in their own faction. Czechoslovakia is in the Allies.
• France isn't in the Allies so they aren't in the war currently.

“I doubt it,” the Minister started, “the United States is still suffering through the Depression and their citizens’ opinions seem to support neutrality. Though they will probably still send arms to the British. But the question remains, what should Bulgaria do?” he directed this question at the Tsar, but also glanced around the room, welcoming further input.

“It remains clear what we must do,” Lukov began, “and any further debate on this matter only delays the inevitable. The Serbs and the Greeks hold ancestral Bulgarian land. They won’t expect a surprise attack from us while they are busy with the Italians, we must strike hard, and we must strike now!” Lukov’s eyes flashed with fire as he gave his answer before he raised his eyes toward Boris, beseeching him to agree.

The Tsar gave a slight nod to Lukov, acknowledging his opinion before shouting, “Hadzipetkov! Is our army ready?” gaining the man’s attention.

“We have twenty-five divisions ready for combat duty, and two garrison divisions for home defense. A further ten combat divisions are currently in training but could be called up now if you so wish, my Tsar. Generals Mihov and Nakov can be at our western and southern borders within the week.”

Spoiler: Mihov and Nakov

Spoiler: Division Template

Boris began to pace the room with his hand on his chin. Hadzipetkov watched him for a few seconds before continuing.

“Sapundzhiev has ensured me that our artillery is on-par, or even better than our Balkan neighbors. They won’t hold long under sustained firepower.”

Spoiler: Sapundzhiev

Minister Kyoseivanov interrupted Hadzipetkov and stood, “Now, gentlemen,” he cautioned, “the Army is just one piece. What about the Airforce? To sustain such a bombardment as you have planned, Hadzipetkov, and such a lightning offensive, Lukov, would we not need a quality number of planes to support our men and scout out enemy positions? And, even though Minister Vulkov’s record is distinguishable from the last war, I believe, and I am truly sorry to say this, that it has left him, somewhat, aloof in most matters.”

All eyes turned to Vulkov to see his response, but he remained seated. He was eyeing the swirls of the oaken conference table with the keen interest of an art collector appraising a Monet (or perhaps a Van Gogh).

When it was clear that Vulkov would not respond to his remarks, Kyoseivanov grinned slyly, “See what I mean? An operation of such importance as the one proposed cannot be trusted to this…character. Furthermore—”.

“You dare,” Brian snapped, shoving others aside, “to insult the Minister in such a way, side-stepping around any open insults and implying everything. Knowing he cannot and will not challenge you! You dare to insult someone who has fought for Bulgaria’s honor in such a horrific war! I’ll give you a challenge!” Brian stormed up to Kyoseivanov and tackled him to the floor. He shoved the frightened Minister to the ground and raised his fist for the first punch.

The remaining Ministers, shocked both by Kyoseivanov’s insinuations and by Brian’s attack, remained still and simply watched. But before he could begin his beating, a hand gripped Brian’s wrist and pulled him up from the floor. That hand was the Tsar’s.

Brian looked up, tears of rage and regret streaming down his face. “I’m sorry, Boris—I mean my Tsar” Brian quickly corrected, “I…I don’t know what came over me. I’m sorry Minister Kyoseivanov for my uncalled-for behavior, I don’t know why…” He left his sentence hanging. “I will leave now and lie down, if I may my Tsar?”

“You may Brian.” Boris replied, a small smile of sympathy on his face. “Get as much rest as you need.”

Brian nodded and turned to leave the room, but before he could Kyoseivanov had regained some of his composure.

He snarled, a quiver still slightly evident in his voice, “You can’t do that! He’s attacked a government official! This man must be arrested! Someone, seize him!”

But any further words were caught in Kyoseivanov’s throat by Boris’ icy glare, “My guards will do no such thing Minister. And if you wish to remain one, I suggest that you keep your mouth shut.” Boris stepped up to him, until their faces were inches apart, “Do I make myself clear?”. Kyoseivanov mumbled a meek “yes” as his reply. “Good.” Boris stated, “Brian you can go now. And I don’t want this matter to come up ever again. That goes for all of you.” He let his gaze pierce each of the other Ministers. “Now, Hadzipetkov, please continue.”

Hadzipetkov waited for Brian to leave then cleared his throat, “The Airforce is ready to support the Army I assure you Kyoseivanov. And as for our planes having to act as scouts, that is not needed. Our troops are fitted with radios to help them find their targets. But, to broach a different subject, if we do join this war, it must be soon. The French may not have joined yet, but that won’t we the case for long. And of course, the real danger is the British fleet being able to ship troops over from the Middle East, Africa, and Cyprus. As much confidence as I have in our troops and our tactics, I would like them to get some field experience against our neighbors before we have to face a much more professional army. As always, my Tsar, the final decision rests with you.”

Spoiler: Vulkov

“Give me a few days and I will decide.” The Tsar replied. “Surely nothing will change in a few days?”

Everyone nodded and left the room, leaving only the Tsar and Vulkov who was still admiring the table. Boris sighed and stared at the Minister, “The world at war again, who would have thought it? What they say must be true indeed that, ‘there’s nothing new under the Sun’. But do I have the strength to lead us, to lead Bulgaria through it to the bitter end? And what about Brian? The War left its scars on all of us, even if they aren’t visible.” He got a faraway look as he remembered twenty years ago, “So long ago, yet so short too. ‘The War to End All Wars’ a distant yet present memory. Good talk Vulkov, good talk.” He sighed again and left the room.

Vulkov remained staring at the swirls on the table. The endless rings, the endless cycles so mesmerizing to the eyes of man.

 

[RustyHunter]

• Albania is Greece's puppet.
• Greece and Yugo are in their own faction. Czechoslovakia is in the Allies.
• France isn't in the Allies so they aren't in the war currently.

An interesting path to war! The Axis are roughly historical, but it looks like the Little Entente (replace Romania with Greece) has picked a fight with powers bigger than them. Bulgaria will certainly be busy in this war!

Vulkov remained staring at the swirls on the table. The endless rings, the endless cycles so mesmerizing to the eyes of man.

Vulkov feels very important to this update, especially with the symbolism of the wood grain. At first I thought he was being played for a joke, but I can only imagine how a WWI vet would feel about starting WWII, especially since Bulgaria had a rough time of it.

I also thought Brian's outburst was quite surprising, and it was not something I would have expected from him. However, I like the extra layers it adds to his character.

 

[jak7139]

An interesting path to war! The Axis are roughly historical, but it looks like the Little Entente (replace Romania with Greece) has picked a fight with powers bigger than them. Bulgaria will certainly be busy in this war!

Bulgaria will be busy for sure!

Vulkov feels very important to this update, especially with the symbolism of the wood grain. At first I thought he was being played for a joke, but I can only imagine how a WWI vet would feel about starting WWII, especially since Bulgaria had a rough time of it.

I also thought Brian's outburst was quite surprising, and it was not something I would have expected from him. However, I like the extra layers it adds to his character.

At first all I had for Vulkov was the joke about him thinking, but then I decided that his silence/thinking is probably the cause of some WW1 trauma. I couldn't really find any info on IRL Vulkov except that he participated in an air battle over Sofia while it was being bombed by the Allies. So I decided to do something unique with him.

When I wrote the first draft of this chapter, I debated for a long time about whether to leave Brian's outburst in, but did eventually decide to keep it. You're right that it doesn't really fit with what I've shown of him so far. But since he did fight in WW1, I think the memories of that, as well as the beginning WW2 so soon after the first one ended, are what tipped him over the edge.

Spoiler: IRL Vulkov Bombing of Sofia

 

[RustyHunter]

At first all I had for Vulkov was the joke about him thinking, but then I decided that his silence/thinking is probably the cause of some WW1 trauma.

I like that interpretation a lot.

I couldn't really find any info on IRL Vulkov except that he participated in an air battle over Sofia while it was being bombed by the Allies. So I decided to do something unique with him.

Well, that's a win as far as Paradox research is concerned! He's real and even commanded aircraft! I like your usage much better though. I also found it interesting the bulk of the Bulgarian airforce was Dewoitines (according to Wikipedia). Must have been German war booty that found its way to poor Bulgaria.

You're right that it doesn't really fit with what I've shown of him so far. But since he did fight in WW1, I think the memories of that, as well as the beginning WW2 so soon after the first one ended, are what tipped him over the edge.

I actually liked the outburst a lot. You hadn't really given us too much of Brian's personality, mostly just his sense of duty and camaraderie with Boris, so I think his outburst gave an extra layer to him. It really made him feel more real to me, and I think that's important.

 

[jak7139]

Author's Note: Hello everyone! Sorry this chapter took so long. I've just been really busy with school and life. I plan to update this going forward every 1-3 weeks. Thank you all for your patience!

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Chapter Five: A Plan​

Excerpt from a speech delivered by Tsar Boris III, Spring 1940:

“The second of February 1940. A day of triumph for our nation. The Germans have offered us a seat at the table, and we have accepted it. Bulgaria is now at war with Britain and its allies. The Greeks and the Serbs shall pay in blood for our past humiliations. We stand with Germany. We stand with Italy. We stand with Mexico…”

The following day France joins Britain, the Czechs, Greece, and Yugoslavia in their war. A major offensive is launched across the Italian border, perceiving them to be the weak link. Tsar Boris calls an emergency meeting of the Cabinet to discuss this development.

- - -​

“How can they fall so quickly, surely they were at least somewhat prepared?” Brian asked.

“Exactly why I thought this was a bad idea,” Kyoseivanov quipped, “They shall roll straight through Italy into the Balkans and Austria. We are beaten.” he shook his and sighed.

“We shall make them pay for every inch of ground!” Lukov stated. “Let them try and take Sofia!”

Boris has been listening carefully and stared at the map of Italy on the wall, “Hadzipetkov, what do you think?”

Spoiler: The Map

The Minister eyed his liege coldly, not out of contempt, but because his mind was racing with all the military knowledge of Bulgaria and he was eager to find a solution to the, at the moment, precarious predicament. He answered the Tsar with another question, asking, “Filov, what does our intelligence say about the number of divisions in the Italian Army?”

Filov answered him, “Around fifty to sixty. Mostly infantry with very little in the way of tanks. Why?”

The Tsar, his eyes still fixed on the map, guessed at the answer before Hadzipetkov could explain, “There’s only forty Italian divisions on the front!”

“Exactly, my Tsar!” Hadzipetkov replied. “Though where their other men are, I don’t know.” He began to pace around the room, “But wherever they are, we must still act. And I think I have an idea to do it.” He began to mumble slightly to himself, “Yes…an idea indeed, they won’t expect a thing!”

“What plan?” Brian asked.

“Ah, Brian my boy” Hadzipetkov clasped a hand on Brian’s shoulder, “the Ardennes!”

“The Ardennes!?” Kyoseivanov cried, “that forest is impassable! Would you risk our whole army when the Allies are so close to our borders!?”

“Don’t worry Kyoseivanov. I’ll leave enough of a force behind to protect our borders, but we must send something to the front. And it has to be enough of a something to make a difference.”

“You mean the Tsar will order you to?” Filov said, “You don’t rule this country yet. You just advise the Tsar on military matters.”

“Of course! Of course! A thousand pardons my Tsar, I never meant to usurp your authority. I just got so excited about this plan—which I do believe will work—that I just lost my head for a moment. That’s all.”

Boris nodded, “Very well, Hadzipetkov. Whatever this plan is, I accept it. But it had better work.”

“Oh, it will. It will…” Hadzipetkov gleamed.