While at a NATO briefing in Brussels, US Consul Frederick Collins begins to relay information about his promising negotations with the Independent Balinderry Army, Unit 10. It appears that the first steps to peace in the Dominion of Balinderry have been successfully taken, when he learns that his wife has been kidnapped by forces purported to be associated with Unit 10. Oscar calls Washington for advice on what the US can do to help its ambassador. When they tell him that no US forces are to be engaged in any attempt to help Mrs. Collins, Steve balks. The message from the IBA says that there are only 14 hours left before they will kill Mrs. Collins. He thus sets off for Balinderry, claiming that he is not officially representing the US.