NationStates Jolt Archive

Excerpt from "Justitian Workers' Weekly" newsmagazine:

After a 10 year project, the People's Army has announced that it has entered the production stage for a number of new military vehicles reverse-engineered from individual sytems purchased on the international market. The acquisition of this new materiel is a milestone for the Army, which has previously relied almost exclusively on massed infantry formations. Many experts believe this strategic doctrine may have contributed to the defeat of Justitian forces in the recent conflict in Um Lizaa (Iraqstan), where they were faced with the superior technology of the fascist Non-Democratic Alliance (NDA) and were eventually forced to surrender en-masse, although the Ministry of the Military still insists that the cause of that incident was internal strife and that the International Brigades, predecessor to the People's Army, performed admirably and would have emerged victorious if not for the uprising at home.

The People's Council has proclaimed the advanced designs the "property of all freedom-loving socialist nations" and plans to make them available to any member nation of the CACE, ACA, and other anti-capitalist organizations at no cost, although production is not sufficient to begin exports at current rates. The Ministry of the Military plans to complete the following production orders within two years, with the cooperation of the Ministry of Industry:

500 T-90 main battle tanks
100 Mi-28 'Havoc' helicopter gunships
500 BTR-90 armored personnel carriers
100 M1 'Tunguska' low-level air defense vehicles
500 Su-34 air-superiority fighters

Within three years the Ministry hopes that the conversion of factories to military production will allow these numbers to be doubled.

(OOC: Detailed descriptions of capabilities available upon request.)

In a related story, a memorial monument to the 9,237 International Brigadiers who were killed in combat in Um Lizaa was unveiled in Macharia City. Prime Minister Emanuel Romero, present at the monument's solemn dedication, described the soldiers as "martyrs who selflessly gave their lives for freedom and the right of all people to self-determination" and said they "serve as exemplars to all Justitians of noble conduct and the true altruistic spirit of world socialism". The central feature of the monument is a 20-foot sculpture by renowned artist Mao Zhukov, depicting three IB soldiers, one firing his rifle as the second tends to the wounded third. Beneath the sculpture is a marble wall inscribed with the name of each soldier who lost his or her life.

"The NDA? Fascists?" Metatron sat there, he couldn´t believe it. "Didn`t they learn anything? I mean... we were about to invade them, bombed their airfields, their coastal defences..."
"Perhaps we should have bombed their cities instead, a few million killed civilians tend to make a rather bold impression..."
"True... true Michael... So, what will we do?"
"Well... atm, nothing. Aside from their propaganda, there isn´t much they actually can do... Although i would love to liberate them."
"So would i. Well, we will see what the high council says..."

Message To: Prime Minister Emanuel Romero
Message Fr: Domina Rene Seingult
Message Re: Macharian Monument an Affront to Civilised Nations

To Mr. Romero;

The Dominion most strongly condemns the construction of a monument glorifying the imperialist invaders sent to attempt the conquest of Um Lizaa.

The previous Justitiumi government fell for that act of unbridled ideological agression, and I should hate to see the same fate befall your government, Mr. Romero. Tsaraine values stability above all.

Furthermore I condemn the reference to the fine, upstanding governments of the NDA as "fascists" by the Justitian Workers' Weekly. The NDA is not a fascist organisation. At the very least, the fascists within our Alliance have better manners in international affairs than Justitium has demonstrated.

The world neither needs nor wants your deluded ideas of mob rule and demagouery, Mr. Romero, and as a citizen of that world I can say that Tsaraine for one will be most pleased when Justitium sees the light of Sound Governance and throws away it's toys.

http://shade.jonpearse.net/Rene.jpg
~ Domina Rene Seingult
Division Five Commandant

Veganian authorities today condemns the celebration of the butchers of Um Lizaa, saying: "The world has seen enough of infidel violence, thousands of men killing innocents and then bragging about it, raising a monument even, that is hard to understand. Our prayers goes to our brothers and sisters that died that day and many other days in the Iraqstani conflict."

From: The National Zionist Empire of Endless crimes
To: Justitium
Subject: NDA relations

"We have come to realise that there are still misunderstandings between our two nations, as well as between your nation and the organisation we`re a member off, the NDA.

We would like to offer you a chance to learn from each other, to end the differences and... hatred between us.

For that, we would say that it is best when one of us sends a few diplomats to each other to discuss matters in which we conflict.

This seems to be our last, best hope for peace.

Let us show you that we, yes, both of us, are indeed working for peace, and justice."

~ Metatron

Domina Rene Seingult of Tsaraine:

The people of Justitium firmly believe that it is our right and duty to honor those brave soldiers who dedicated and gave their lives in the service of our nation and for the honorable cause of national self-determination. However misguided our military endeavor in Um Lizaa may have been, those defenders of international socialism, as individuals, were motivated by nothing less than a sincere and heartfelt desire to bring freedom to a land that has long suffered under the repressive rule of your ally Iraqstan, and indeed continues to suffer for the unbridled greed, paranoia, and hatred of that nation's ruler, Carlos Quil'raya. Any who doubts that he is a fascist in the clearest sense is simply blind; we call your attention to his barbaric attempts at the wholesale extermination of Um Lizaaians simply because they do not share his own race, religion, and nationality. However, we do recognize that armed intervention was the improper course of action in this case, and lament the unnecessary deaths of both Justitian and NDA soldiers. We have no intention of resuming hostilities between our nations; our recent project to modernize our armed forces is purely defensive in nature and we assure you that you have nothing to fear from the reformed Justitian government, which will pursue world peace with as much fervor as our predecessors pursued war.

Sincerely,
Emanuel Romero
Prime Minister

***

Metatron of Endless Crimes:

The people of Justitium happily welcome any chance at improving diplomatic relations with your nation and will warmly embrace any ambassadors you may desire to send to our great homeland, and will deploy our own envoys to Endless Crimes in expectation of the same commitment to peace from you and your people. If you are sincere in your search for a peaceful resolution to our differences then you fill our hearts with hope for a world that one day will never know the horrors of war.

We hope that you will understand in time that we have never hated your nation or any member of the NDA; we hate capitalism, oppression, and dictatorship, but these are ideals and actions, and to hate a human being, even one that may adhere to a hated ideology, is quite another thing entirely and something that good Justitians are utterly incapable of.

Sincerely,
Emanuel Romero
Prime Minister

From: Endless Crimes
To: Justitium
Subject: Ambassadors

"Very well. In this case, we would be delighted to sent one of our diplomats to you. We`re sure Ambassador Remael will be able to handle the matter, and he will arrive within a week.

We can`t wait for your representative in EC, and hope we will be able to work out satisfying ways of peaceful interaction."

~ Metatron

[ooc: For the record: Endless Crimes is _not_ a feasible nation. They`re christian fundamentalists, and fascists with a rather strange moral. Sex is illegal, breeding happens artificially in large facilities. The society is a class system, not unlike the one is brave new world. On top are the seraphim. The 'leaders', so to speak. Followed by the Cherubim, the 'warrior class'. And finally, the normal workers.

The population is practically entirely brainwashed. The leading class, seraphim, are created with a bioluminiszent part on their forehead and wings (yes, they can fly, the price is a very light skeleton, which has it´s disadvantages), to resemble angels, so are the cherubim (but they´re smaller). The local ideology is that the seraphim came back to earth to lead the mere humans to a new paradise.

The people also have telepathic abilities (if necessary, i can write you a TG with a detailed description. As of now, it`s enough to say that there are methods to prevent them to fuck with your minds), the technology is mainly bioorganic- based.

So, if you prefer to interact only with modern tech/ realistic society nations, i suggest you inform me now, and i will drop the matter. If you can accept the ridiculous stuff i RP, we can continue.]

-<Transmission Type: Diplomatic Communique>-
-<Destination: Government of Justitium>-

Greetings,

We have heard reports of a military buildup after the destruction of your military infrastructure and industry by the Non-Democratic Alliance. As we do not wish to see any further conflict, we urge you to hold to your word of using these materials for defensive-reasons only.

Another conflict with the NDA so soon after this most recent experience could prove devastating for your people. We urge you to excercise restraint and caution in rebuilding your defenses.

We have no direct interest in the matter, you may consider this just a friendly offer of advice.

Regards,

Prime Minister Andrew Seal
Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala

-<End Transmission>-

It becomes painfully clear that Justitium is merely buying time to rebuild their infrastructure and military with the assistance of more gullible nations willing to assist them in their sick-minded aims. The NDA will not officially recognise the government of either Justitium or their thinly-disguised shadow, Mariatum. We will take no direct action against either entity, although we will call upon the international community to recognise the threat posed by such dangerous rogues and call for their disarmament. Hopefully, it will not happen too late before more lives are thrown away needlessly.

We fully support the stance of Domina Rene Seingult of Tsaraine and applaud her wisdom. However, we do not seek to censure Metatron of Endless Crimes for their attempt to open talks with Justitium. Our Alliance does not attempt to dictate peaceful policy among members; we only caution them to check their pockets after shaking hands.

**************************
http://www.pwfc.org/images/gallery/smtorso3.jpg
Emperor Devon I
Empire of Treznor
**************************

Once again, the forces of communism and socialism are rattling sabres in their endless quest for world dominion. After being thouroughly trounced by forces of the NDA, the people of Justitium are showing the true face of their convictions. The first thing they do after such a defeat is steal technology, "reverse engineer" it, and offer it for free to a terrorist collective of nations. This is just the type of thing that sane nations need to stand up against. The communist cancer in our world must be dealt with. We cannot allow them to continue spreading their poisonous ideology to the youth of the world.

This "monument" that they're building is just the sort of tactics we at North Hack Newswire have come to expect. Those coked out commie kooks slaughtered Um Lizaan and Iraqistani women and children before being beaten back by the valiant soldiers of the NDA. And now their government "honors" them as "martyrs"! If these people had any soul, and heart, any sense of decency at all, they'd scrap this military buildup and tear down that monument of massacre.

Members of the Non-Democratic Alliance:

The people of Justitium are understanding of your concerns, given our recent conflict in Um Lizaa, yet we are astonished at the audacity you have displayed in suggesting that we have no right to honor our dead or to provide for our nation's defense. For an organization that adopts such a sweeping definition of national sovereignty that it holds its members even have a right to commit genocide without interference from the international community, as in the case of your ally Iraqstan, we find your insinuations to this effect most apalling and see them as a clear demonstration of your unbridled hypocrisy. Do not think, either, that the irony of your accusations of war-mongering being uttered in the same breath as threat and coercion is lost on us.

Far from persuading us to cease our military modernization program, your unwarranted and uncivil response to our policy has given us reason to fear invasion once more and will only serve to spur our production forward at a faster rate. However, in spite of your brazen attempts at provocation, we once again must give you every assurance that this effort is motivated by nothing more than a desire to strengthen our defenses, and that these weapons will never be used for offensive purposes in accordance with the new Justitian Constitution. We hope that in time you will abandon these strong-arm tactics and learn to conduct your international relations with civility and respect. Perhaps then you will receive the same courtesy from us.

Sincerely,
Emanuel Romero
Prime Minister

***

Metatron of Endless Crimes:

The people of Justitium are eternally grateful for your understanding and willingness to cooperate with us in our pursuit of a world of peace and equality. Truly, you are as an island of tranquility in a roiling sea of anger and aggression. We assure that your ambassador Remael will be welcomed with humility and respect and will be provided with every necessity during his stay in our great nation.

We suggest that you direct your ambassador's transport to the Macharia International Airport, where our diplomatic officials will eagerly await his arrival in one week's time. We will provide for his security, although you may send with him whatever personnel you may deem necessary for his protection.

In exchange, we have deployed Diplomatic Envoy Diego Guevara to Endless Crimes along with his staff, security detail, and our brave General Vladmir Zhukov of the People's Army. We expect they will arive in approximately ten days.

Once again, we thank you for your compassion and cooperation.

Sincerely,
Emanuel Romero
Prime Minister

(OOC: No problem at all with the way you RP, EC. Please tell me how the diplomats can be protected from your telepathy. Next post will be showing Remael around Justitium.)

"Well, there we are." Remael left the plane, which stood there, in the sunlight, it`s white skin glowing bright.

It had been a pleasant flight, without any... 'bad interruptions'.

He wore a white suit, with a slightly enlarged back, so that his wings would actually fit in. It was a standard policy to keep the wings, well, unseen, as they might cause... trouble when seen outside EC.

The bible Edited Reich|EC version in his left, a staff in his right hand, he left the plane, rather... pleased that the weather was as good as it was.

Well, here i am, not to see what comes next.

[ooc: i tend to RP arrivals (request clearance etc etc) only when i stage terrorist attacks, infiltrations etc.. Since he is unarmed (safe the staff) and the plane really doesn´t carry explosives, or any defence system, i skipped it.]

Ambassador Remael was greeted on the runway tarmac by a handful of Justitian officials, all clad in sensible, slightly-worn suits of subdued earth-tones, adorned with a small red star lapel pin, save one man in an immaculately pressed military uniform. A few hundred feet away, a group of about a hundred civilians wove red flags and placards and angrily chanted "No pasaran!" or simply "Fascist dog!". The woman who stepped forward to shake his hand was a short, freckled, bookish-looking brunette who he estimated to be in her late twenties.

"Ambassador Remael of Endless Crimes, on behalf of the People's Council I welcome you to the great nation of Justitium and our glorious capital, Macharia! My name is Margaret Reed and I have been appointed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as your personal guide for the duration of your stay here." A nervous smile flitted across her lips as she addressed him; no doubt she was slightly unnerved by his appearance. Her tone, however, was sincere, and Remael introduced himself in a formal yet amicable manner. "Please don't mind these protesters. You see, many of them lost family members in the bombing attacks, but I assure you that the vast majority of Justitians support your visit as a step towards a more peaceful and harmonious world. Now, if you will kindly come this way, Ambassador, I will show you to your quarters. After you're settled in and have had a look at your itinerary, I would like to show some of the city so that you can get some idea of what daily life in Justitium is like."

The officer, a dour, middle-aged man who stood nearly as tall as the ambassador himself (not considering his high-peaked cap), was introduced as Colonel Fidel Sanger of the People's Army, to be serving as Remael's bodyguard. As the group proceeded into the airport, a monolithic structure bustling wall-to-wall with Justitians and foreigners alike, Remael noted that each Justitian in the delegation wore a small black box on his or her belt. His guide took note of his inquisitive glances and gave a reassuring smile. "Your government informed us of your telepathic abilities and the Council decided that some precautionary measures were necessary, so each of us was provided with a magnetic field generator. We hope you understand this is not a sign of distrust; we are merely unfamiliar with your ... talents."

While they walked, Miss Reed rattled off facts about Justitium and pointed out scenes of interest. "I'm certain you took notice of the large number of ships entering Macharia Harbor as you flew in, and of course you can see how busy our airport is at the moment. This is all due to the wonderful International Fair Trade Agreement, or IFTA, of which Justitium has recently become a signatory. Its emphasis is on labor rights, but it also makes trade with member nations a much more fluid process, and brings us a great deal of tourism as well. Justitium has recieved Trade Primacy Status in return for our outstanding labor rights record, which makes the boon to our economy all the greater."

(OOC: More soon to come ... I'm just trying to limit post length. Feel free to respond whenever you want with Remael's reactions, etc.)

Looking at the protestors, Remael chuckled. Well, that was to be expected. Remarkably few, though. Perhaps they ain`t as bad as we thought.

"Ambassador Remael of Endless Crimes, on behalf of the People's Council I welcome you to the great nation of Justitium and our glorious capital, Macharia! My name is Margaret Reed and I have been appointed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as your personal guide for the duration of your stay here."

Remael bowed all so slightly. "I am honoured to be your guest." However, as friendly as he was outside, inside, he was chuckling. Great nation, glorious capital. God, she sounds like Matty when he had to much of a drink.

"Please don't mind these protesters. You see, many of them lost family members in the bombing attacks, but I assure you that the vast majority of Justitians support your visit as a step towards a more peaceful and harmonious world. Now, if you will kindly come this way, Ambassador, I will show you to your quarters. After you're settled in and have had a look at your itinerary, I would like to show some of the city so that you can get some idea of what daily life in Justitium is like."


"Oh, thats certainly understandable. It´s not like it`s easy to forgive such... deeds. Death is always horrible, and we shouldn`t underestimate what such random killing can do to the soul." He hesitates, looking once more at the protestors. For some reason, i can understand them. They lost their loved ones, their homes... Poor, misguided souls, may god have mercy with you. "In any case, i can hardly wait to see your 'glorious capital' in detail."

[quote]"I'm certain you took notice of the large number of ships entering Macharia Harbor as you flew in, and of course you can see how busy our airport is at the moment. This is all due to the wonderful International Fair Trade Agreement, or IFTA, of which Justitium has recently become a signatory. Its emphasis is on labor rights, but it also makes trade with member nations a much more fluid process, and brings us a great deal of tourism as well. Justitium has recieved Trade Primacy Status in return for our outstanding labor rights record, which makes the boon to our economy all the greater."
[7quote]

Remael listens, not without interest. In fact, he seems to be quite curious regarding foreign economic systems.

"Ah... well, I`m sure it does a great deal of help to you... although the UN seems to have a different opinion on it."

The discussion goes on, surprisingly pleasent, considering the war that was going on not so long ago.

After a while of walking, driving, etc., they finally reach the quarters.

[and next round]

OOC: Apologies for waiting so long to reply ... RL stuff, you know, though I'll try to be better about it in the future.

As the Justitian diplomatic delegation exited the enormous airport's main terminal, delegate Margaret Reed realized she had left out an important detail of Remael's travel plans in her introduction.
"Excuse me, Ambassador Remael, but you should know we won't have access to a private vehicle for most of your stay here. Even government officials don't have access to personal automobiles in Justitium: A decision was made on behalf of the environment, and also because our production wouldn't be sufficient to provide one for every citizen. We'll have to wait at the railcar station, but have no concern; you'll be perfectly safe." Remael didn't look like he fully trusted her yet, but she supposed he would once he saw how the Justitians treated him for himself.

Within five minutes spent at the enclosed station, a long, blue-and-red electric railcar screeched to a halt outside the large picture windows across from the cushioned seating that the delegates had taken. It looked to be in perfect state of repair, as did the station itself. Margaret took the opportunity to extoll the virtues of her nation's public facilities as they borded the car and took equally plush seats along another crystal clear window.
"You see, Mr. Remael, that our public transport is quite prompt and that the comfort of passengers is taken into account." Remael noted that there was ample leg room and the car was well-heated, too. "That's because every one of us relies on it absolutely. It isn't an afterthought for use only by the poor, as in so many capitalist countries, where I've heard it can really be quite atrociously unreliable and dirty." The passengers stared at the odd little group as they borded, but the seating was rather private and if anyone was talking about them Remael couldn't hear it.

As the railcar glided smoothly and silently towards Macharia proper, the city emerged from behind the low hills dividing it from the airport. The buildings were all white-washed and gleaming brightly in the sun, and sprawled nearly to the horizon. There were no great skyscrapers; the only structures that seemed to exceed ten stories were scattered, sculptural monuments surrounded by neatly-manicured parks. The entire city seemed neatly planned, in fact, comprising a gargantuan grid of wide streets with blocks of perfectly equal size between. Rows of small trees had been planted along each street and roughly one block in a dozen was occupied by a park, so that between the stark white walls the city was quite green.

Descending into the flatter land of downtown Macharia, the railcar proceeded to an area of buildings with a sort of simplified Grecco-Roman architecture, which Remael assumed were halls of government. His assumption was borne out when Miss Reed described one as the meeting hall of the People's Council, which was surrounded by the smaller offices of the various Ministries. Once these had passed, the car came to a stop at a station identical to the one at the airport. "This is our destination, the Diplomatic Quarter. Your apartment is located just two blocks from here, Mr. Remael, so if you will ..."

<taggedy>

It was a rather odd experience for Remael. Granted, EC had no private transportation services for the masses, only public ones, so it wasn´t so different...

However, this was the point: For the masses. The Seraphim had some sort of... well, different means, which, in fact, meant luxury.

A strange society... They need a change, they most definitely need a change... He thought, however, he was aware enough not to say it openly. Instead he agreed with Margaret about the virtues and advantages of the Justitium system.

However, Remael was truly impressed when seeing the 'green streets', the plants all around. While EC planned to 'recreate eden', it was located fairly high up, in the north, and thusly, aside from in- door parks, the great projects tended to fail, simply because of the climate. So, watching the true beauty of the city was quite impressive for him, and he didn´t hesitate telling his company about his admiration of this... advancement. Not that this changed his very private views about what Justitium`s society was and what it should be... But that wasn´t a major concern... yet.

"This is our destination, the Diplomatic Quarter. Your apartment is located just two blocks from here, Mr. Remael, so if you will ..."

Remael bowed all so slightly. "It´s an honour." He left the railcar and and for a moment, he just stood there and enjoyed the considerably good weather.

Margaret Reed led Remael and the other Justitian officials toward a large, nondescript, boxy building of seven stories, identical to many others in the city. Justitian architecture seemed to follow a standard template, so that any two structures serving the same purpose possessed very similar layouts. Remael supposed that this particular design was common to all of Macharia's housing.
"This is the Consulary Dormitory, where all of our visiting diplomats are housed," Margaret announced as they entered through a small door raised to second-floor level, bypassing the many small shops that occupied the first. "On the street level you will find stores to supply any food, clothing, or luxury items you may desire. Simply present this special Credit card ..." She handed Remael a small, plastic card marked with the National Seal of Justitium, a red star ringed with golden wheat sheaves, and reading 'Special Diplomatic Clearance: Ambassador Remael of Endless Crimes'.

"A version of this card is used to permit discretionary spending for the citizens of Justitium in the absence of true currency," she began anew in her absurdly squeaky voice that seemed quite at odds with her dignified, lecturing tone. "Of course, ours have spending limits while your own does not. Each work week, one hundred ACA Credits are added to every Justitian's account, which are used for luxury purchases or any others that the people feel must be left to personal choice, such as clothing and some foods." The delegation moved through a large common area, with couches, a television, computers, gaming tables, and a fireplace. The room was ringed with doorways, and on the far side Margaret opened one with a key card (which she then handed to Remael) and gestured for the ambassador to enter. "These rooms are exactly the same as would be given to a single Justitian. We want our visiting dignitaries to become familiar with our way of life, and this seemed a simple way to achieve that goal."

The single room was sparsely furnished and very small, shockingly so at first, but as Miss Reed showed him around Remael realized that all of the appliances and much of the furniture items were either folded neatly into compartments in the walls or built into them. Though the room lacked a microwave oven and television (replaced by a radio/CD player), every other amenity one would expect was provided, down to a sort of minibar cabinet containing several bottles of various alcohols, including absinthe (which, according to Reed, Justitium was famous for) and, to Remael's surprise, a small, sealed bowl of marijuana buds and a pipe (drug use apparently being legal and socially acceptable, in moderation).
"Now, Mr. Remael, we will take our leave for the night. Your itinerary is on the cooking counter, and tomorrow we will be visiting the Central Military Training Facility in Loricatum and at night will return to Macharia for a play and a visit to some other recreational facilities. For your protection, Colonel Sanger will be staying in the room adjacent. Sleep well, and welcome to Justitium!"

ooc: Sorry, it took me slightly longer than expected to write this, because i´m lazy *cough*

---

ic:

<First paragraph>

"Well... pretty well organised, i think..."

He bowed, as usual, his expression unreadable.

<Second paragraph>

Odd system... and treating diplomats like normal citizens? Well, i wont... no, i wont bash them, it`s all for the greater good... Remember it, there [i]IS a plan behind it all...

"Interesting... and don´t worry, i wont abuse it, being a Seraphim, i`m sort of... required to follow an ascetic way of life..."

<Third paragraph>

"Ah... yes." He nodded. The size of the room wasn´t a problem for him, being used to his usual, aforementioned, ascetic lifestyle. "One question... A Justitium delegation was supposed to be send to EC... i hope they already arrived?"

ooc: Sorry, it took me slightly longer than expected to write this, because i´m lazy *cough*

---

ic:

<First paragraph>

"Well... pretty well organised, i think..."

He bowed, as usual, his expression unreadable.

<Second paragraph>

Odd system... and treating diplomats like normal citizens? Well, i wont... no, i wont bash them, it`s all for the greater good... Remember it, there [i]IS a plan behind it all...

"Interesting... and don´t worry, i wont abuse it, being a Seraphim, i`m sort of... required to follow an ascetic way of life..."

<Third paragraph>

"Ah... yes." He nodded. The size of the room wasn´t a problem for him, being used to his usual, aforementioned, ascetic lifestyle. "One question... A Justitium delegation was supposed to be send to EC... i hope they already arrived?"

The VTOL special-use civilian transport, prominently and proudly marked with the Red Star of Justitium, gently descended to the airport tarmac and gracefully braked to a halt. Diplomatic Envoy Diego Guevara was uneasy, but his unease had nothing to do with flight, to which he had become quite accustomed during his service with the International Brigades. He had been chosen for his duty both for his sincere, unwavering commitment to international socialism and for his knowledge of matters likely pertinent to the culture and politics of Endless Crimes; at Macharia University he had majored in Christian theology. Now one particular Bible quote seemed to be repeating itself in Guevara's thoughts: "I send you out as a sheep among the wolves".

In fact, Guevara was no sheep, and neither were the ten People's Army veterans sitting stone-faced beside him, but a handful of wolves among millions would still have reason to fear for their lives. Nervously, he fingered the small black box on his belt, a weak magnetic field generator that supposedly would protect him from the depredations of these psychic anomalies called Seraphim. "Supposedly" was the operative word in that sentence. A thousand questions ran through his mind: Would the field be strong enough? Had the EC government deliberately misled the Justitians, and could the device at his side actually make their mind control easier? His hand lept under his arm unbidden, where a loaded CZ pistol was concealed in a shoulder holster. At least, if they tried anything, he could take his own life before becoming a pawn of the fundamentalists. That wasn't much of a comfort, but surprisingly, it did ease his mind a little.

Forcing those grim worries out of his mind, Guevara opened the rear door of the transport and stepped out onto the runway. He had to at least appear confident and in control, or the EC would only be emboldened.

ALTIMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: Minimal
Broadcast type: Diplomatic
To: Justitium
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Tsume Dragonis - Reploid Productions

The Immortal Shogunate will decline to comment on the theft of designs and technology purchased from other nations, nor its willingness to share these tools of war with several rogue nations. We will state, however, that we are exceedingly thankful that we have not sold anything to your nation.

We would like to correct a slight mis-statement concerning the Um Lizaans. They are no longer being oppressed or slaughtered by the Iraqstani government, as they have been evacuated en masse to lands held by the Shogunate, where they are starting to resettle and enjoy newfound freedom and safety. We would like to think that this arrangement, while not perfect, has been the best solution to an otherwise tangled diplomatic problem: The oppressed are free, there was no full-scale war, and the Iraqstani region has not been completely destabilized and thrown into chaos, which would have made it a prime breeding ground for even worse problems.

While we are admittedly not fond of the Justitium government or its actions in Iraqstan, we will not press the subject. We do, however, strongly urge Justitium's government to tread carefully on this subject of military buildup, as there are nations more vocal on the subject who can, will, and have viewed this buildup as an ill omen.

"One must tread very cautiously when among sleeping dragons."

http://rpstudios.ian-justman.com/junk/CGgoods/tsume5.JPG
~Tsume Dragonis
~Secretary of Foreign Affairs
~Immortal Shogunate of Reploid Productions
<End Transmission>

[ooc: Somehow, i think I will be responsible of the plot failing, considering the ludicruous speed of my replies :/ Sorry that...]

ic:

There hadn´t been any special precautions regarding the guests. Obviously, the government felt is was fairly safe.

There weren`t many people to be seen out there, mostly workers, a few businessmen. Due to The Reich`s policies, 'tourism' wasn´t exactly popular... although the local ideology may have taken part in this, too.

Outside, a group of people waited. One was a Seraph, looking surprisingly handsome... relatively small for a Seraph, though. Two Cherubim, slightly smaller than the Seraph, stood on his side, behind them, a small group of normal humans waited, looking sort of... well, scared.

Watching Guevara leaving the plane, the Seraph smiled.

"Welcome in Endless Crimes. I`m Juriel, your liaison." He bowed. "The people..." He pointed at the men behind his back. "Will take care of your belongings. I hope the flight was pleasent?"

The small talk continued for a while [ooc: You can enter replies here] while they walked away. A VTOL transporter, not unlike the one the Justitium delegation had used, but fairly smaller, since it was for short ranges only, waited for them... It had a rather unique design, resembling an angel.

On the flight to the city, the guests from Justitium could see over the landscape... Sometimes, black dots could be seen along the streets... The pilot had been ordered to fly high enough, so that the honoured guests wouldn´t see the crosses and the convicted nailed on them.

One could see the black clouds over the city... despite it`s claims of planning a 'New Eden'', EC was fairly... industrial and polluted. And the industry worked day and night, to create the swords that would crush the Antichrist... the swords being anything from small knifes to heavy stratospheric bombers.

Juriel was as polite as one can possibly be, answering most of the questions Guevara had, although not all... sometimes, it was preferable to keep the answers secret, to prevent disturbing results. But even when he did this, he did it in the most polite way possible.

Finally they landed. Incidentally, it was the roof of the diplomatic quarters. Despite all it`s flaws, EC was actually a fairly efficient.

"Let me show you your quarters..."

Stepping down the stairs, one could occasionally see signs like 'DEAT TO THE NEPHILIM!' showing two bleeding, pointy ears, or 'KILL THE SNAKES!', this sign portraying snakes as evil beings that need to be eradicated. Occasionally a 'HEIL THE LORD PROTECTOR MATTHEW IESUS!', although this ones (like the 'Nephilim' signs) were actually limited to the diplomatic quarters to please guests from other Reich- nations... while it was impossible to find the (elsewhere quite normal) 'BURN THE HEATHEN!' signs with a dying Melkor on them.

Occasionally, they met other diplomats, mostly from Reich- nations, but there wasn´t exactly much communication.

The quarters were fairly large, about 100 squaremeters, with all necessary communication lines (For Reich- diplomacy, communication to nations outside The reich needed special permission). In the case of Justitium, all lines connecting to other Reich- nations had been cut, though, whiile a line to Justitium had been established.

However, there was a distinct lack of usual 'pleasures'. The beds were simple and hard, so were the chairs, and there was a significant lack of any kind of pastime opportunities..

"To meditiate. It`s better to remember that one is merely a servant of god. We shouldn´t rest when we can act. Anyway... i will leave now, as i, truly unfortunately, have other duties to attent to. please, make you comfortable, tomorrow we will begin the actual negotiations. Oh, and you´re free to move whereever you want to. Guards will accompany you, of course." Juriel smiled, then left the room.

Heading downwards, he entered another one, in the cellar, about ten floors down.

"I hope anything is ready?"
"Yes. That will be a nice surprise. We still have alot of negotiations to do, though."
"I`m sure they will be successful. Soon..." He smiled, looking elsewhere. "Soon, we will return to glory... And show them the true path, the path that leads to heaven."

[ooc: Yes, this is my plot ;) In the case you need details beforehand telegram me, i will then explain it in detail.]

OOC: I'll respond to Reploid Productions in a later post, just so these don't get too long. No info is needed on your plot, EC; since I don't know what's up IC, I may as well not OOC.

"Thank you, Liaison Juriel. I am honored to be your guest, and the people of Justitium are honored by your nation's willingness to tread the path to peace." Diego Guevara gave a slight nod of his head that might have been meant for a bow. After so long breathing the clean air of his homeland, he very nearly choked on the smoggy miasma hovering above the airport and, from what he could see, the entire city. Somehow, he managed to suppress his gag reflex, and offered his hand to Juriel with a smile. "There's really no need for help; we can carry our own bags, but we thank you for the offer."

"I must apologize for the guards," Guevara offered humbly as the two diplomats proceeded toward the waiting transport, with a nod toward the People's Army squad arrayed in a file behind him, rifles shouldered. "I personally did not see the need, but some Justitians remain distrustful. I hope that we can remedy that with time. Meanwhile, if they must surrender their weapons at any time, simply let us know."

Careful not to show his reluctance or unease, the Justitian ambassador boarded the EC VTOL and took a seat near Juriel. Once off the ground, he could see his suspicions about the smog were quite justified. Would the world never learn that the price of profit was too great? Perhaps the EC ambassador in Justitium would be convinced, seeing for himself how a little economic sacrifice could benefit the people's quality of life immeasurably. Guevara struggled in vain to make out more details of the surface: The altitude and haze prevented him seeing any more than a vague impression of buildings and streets.

The Justitians were very appreciative of the efficiency of transport, however disgusted with environmental conditions they might be, and Guevara voiced his pleasure. One must try to see the good in others, after all, or risk becoming as hateful as the followers of Iesus. "In Justitium, we always strive for efficiency, since it allows more luxuries to be bestowed upon the people. That is the ordinary manner in which we spend any budget surpluses. Of course, some efficiency must be sacrificed to prevent workers from feeling alienated, and also to ensure a job for every citizen, but we find that aside from the moral benefits, happy workers produce more and are more inventive as well."

Passing the posters and Reich ambassadors with slight grimaces but no comments, the Justitian delegates and guards took their rooms without disappointment or complaint. All had been or were soldiers, well accustomed to uncomfortable lodging (though the home barracks were not quite so stark as this). Guevara gave Juriel his most appreciative smile. "They will do quite nicely, thank you, Mr. Juriel. I regret that we won't have more time to talk, but I am eager to see the city from the ground. An mutual understanding of culture and economy is, I believe, vital to the success of our diplomacy."

*massive timewarp thingy*

"There's really no need for help; we can carry our own bags, but we thank you for the offer."


"Well, if you prefer it that way..." Juriel smiled... sort of honest, at least it looked like it. As a matter of fact, this way, it sort of suited him. "Oh... and the guards are no problem. Of course, our normal citizens do not carry any weapons, so it might be better to keep the guns concealed... oh, and a list of what they have would be nice. But other than that, no problem. We understand such issues as 'honour issues', so really, there is no problem."

The flight, as hastened as it was, wasn`t overly inconvenient, and aside from the not exactly perfect environmental conditions (and the low temperature, about 10°C).

"In Justitium, we always strive for efficiency, since it allows more luxuries to be bestowed upon the people. That is the ordinary manner in which we spend any budget surpluses. Of course, some efficiency must be sacrificed to prevent workers from feeling alienated, and also to ensure a job for every citizen, but we find that aside from the moral benefits, happy workers produce more and are more inventive as well."


"Well... thats a theory, as well." Juriel hesitated. "However, we believe more in our honour... and in our duties towards god. He made us to be kin, and it is our duty to fulfill our fate, to dedicate everything we do to him. And so far, it works fairly... well. In the end, we can nothing but profit from our dedication to god and to his work, which is, by definition, also our work. All of us being the family we are, everyone with his duties and priviliges given to them by birth... nobody has to fear for his place in society. It´s always there, always waiting for us... so, everybody is happy."

"They will do quite nicely, thank you, Mr. Juriel. I regret that we won't have more time to talk, but I am eager to see the city from the ground. An mutual understanding of culture and economy is, I believe, vital to the success of our diplomacy."

"EXACTLY my understanding." Juriel smiled as if nothing could ever displease him. Which, by all means, wasn´t necessarily untrue, since his faith in god was most likely more important than anything else he would ever feel. "I`m sure the guards will be most helpful in showing you the city until the night begins." He hesitated. He had noticed the 'faces' his guests made when seeing the posters, but decided not to mention it. They would... yes, they would pay for it soon enough...

For now, he had to be patient.

[Now my guards will have a hard time making sure you do not see what you´re supposed to see in the city... must act all friendly, after all... for now ^_^]

http://www.expressen.se/content/1/c6/09/97/05/d75e1ff4.jpg

Albert walked up to the Justitian delegation with an mused smile on his lips. His usual tie and jacket had been loosened, obviously he felt at home here in the EC embassy, a scent of alcohol could be felt when he came close. He bowed and introduced himself:

"Welcome to the Reich! I hope you had a nice journey here to the beautiful nation of Endless Crimes. I am Albert Sörgaard, Veganian Embassador in Endless Crimes. You shouldn't scare them Juriel, you know The Reich is among the safest place in the whole world. Have no fear walking the streets of Endless Crimes, I'm doing it every day."

Diego Guevara gave the Veganian ambassador a sidelong glance, pausing for a moment to size the man up. The People's Army soldiers instinctively fingered their sidearms. After a moment, Guevara turned to face Sorgaard, straightening his back and lifting his chin. When the two diplomats met eyes, the Justitian was looking down his nose with icy contempt that he made no attempt to conceal.
"Yes, Ambassador Sorgaard, I am certain one is quite safe in Endless Crimes so long as he does not voice any dissent." Guevara's tone was as cold as his stare. "And do not think that we are afraid, no matter what Juriel may imply. To be in a foreign nation hostile to one's own may be uncomfortable at times, but our dedication will see us through if nothing else. Now, if you will excuse us, we have important matters to attend to."

***

Encrypted Satellite Transmission
Security Code Crimson
Origin: Endless Crimes
Author: Comrade Diplomatic Envoy Diego Guevara
Destination: Ministry of Foreign Relations, Central Office, Macharia

Honored comrades, I am greatly saddened to report that the situation in Endless Crimes is far worse than any of us had feared. Though the native officials attempted to divert our attention from the most horrific sights, our delegation defied their restrictions and chillingly bore witness to innumerable crucified corpses left to rot and lining many a main avenue, presumably as "examples" to cow the general populace into submission. As for those poor souls, they are either so terrified as to tremble at the slightest sound or movement, or stumble about in a stupor, all the light of life gone from their eyes as if their very souls had been stripped away. The EC exults Christianity and vows to create a heaven on earth, but I do not embellish when I say that this place is as like unto hell as any I have seen or imagined.

As for myself and my comrades, we are treated with civility and respect, but our liaison's smile does not touch his eyes and I sense our lives or our freedom may be in jeopardy. Given the mysterious nature of the ruling class here (called "Seraphim") and their abilities, I do not know what to expect and feel unable to adequately prepare myself. Be assured, however, that my dedication to the great cause of our nation and all the world's workers will never falter, and I would gladly give my life for it. We will live again, it is said, if we die for justice.

Comrade Diego Guevara
Diplomatic Envoy to Endless Crimes for Justitium

[ooc: I assume you sort of did the walk across the city (Knowing about the corpses and all)? If not, and you`re still interested, i can timewarp in the next post...]

It was the night after the Justitium delegation arrived...

"All ready?"
"Yes."

The team waited, ready to strike... This was the night... the night they would finally do what they were meant for...

This night... It wold be the dawn of a new age. The dawn of the christian age.

The age of The Reich.

The weapons were loaded... they had an actual problem with the cherubim`s wings, since they tended to make moving inside narrow buildings... complicate, but that was all there was. And in the end, they knew the territory.

"And... go."

Nobody moved. This wasn´t the signal to storm the apartment, it was the signal that the knockout gas was led into the room...

"They will have a horrible morning." One of the cherubim grinned.

(Multi-post)

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Captain Josip Gagarin stared wearily at his watch, blinking hard against his dried, hazed eyes. Comrade Guevara had ordered that at least one of the guards remain awake at all times, and Josip, as senior-ranking member of the squad, had volunteered for the latest (and earliest) shift. He regarded such things as responsibilities of command, and at any rate it was his constant willingness to tackle the most difficult assignments that had earned him the respect of his comrade-soldiers and his election to Captain in the first place.

In the darkest hours of the new day, five since he had begun his watch, it was a challenge to stay awake, much less to be alert. If the Justitians' stay in EC was expected to be shorter, he would have taken one of his amphetamine capsules, but he couldn't afford the even more severe exhaustion that would follow the next day, when the effects of the drug had worn off. It was tempting, but he resisted. Only one more hour, then blessed sleep.

Suddenly Gagarin became aware of a new sound in the room. It hadn't just begun, he knew, but it was low and had escaped his notice until now; a gentle hiss, barely audible over the creak and groan of the building's boards. Seeking out its source, he crept along the wall opposite his cot, to a corner, and down to the floor; here it was loudest, at the small ventilation duct.

Alarm pierced the young Captain's heart and his weariness was gone in an instant. Siezing his rifle and and bursting through the door into the dormitory's deserted hall, he cried in his loudest voice, hoarse from lack of use: "Comrades, awake! Treachery comrades, awake now! GAS!" He didn't wait to find if they could hear him or not, but kicked open the doors to his fellow soldier's rooms as he moved down the narrow passage, repeating his cry continuously. The first two stumbled out, rifles in hand and sleeves pressed to their faces. "Zhukov, get the others awake and out here! Trotsky, mind the approach! I'll be back!"

He dashed along the corridor to an apartment slightly distanced from the soldiers' row, where Comrade Guevara was housed. He didn't knock or even speak, but booted the wooden door off its hinges, rapped his coat around his nose and mouth, and plunged himself inside. The gas had filled the room, visible as a thin, milky-white cloud. Guevara lay on his cot, apparently calmly asleep; he hadn't even had time to react. With a strength borne of desperation, Gagarin lifted the diplomat's limp form and rushed to return to his squadmates.

In the hall outside the soldiers' dorms, six of the nine other guards were on their feet and aiming SVT-40s towards the only approach from outside, and one, Tereshkova, the medic, was knelt over the remaining two, who were layed out listless on the floorboards. Captain Gagarin layed Guevara with them and turned to join the others. "Comrades, fix bayonets! Be ready for anything to come down this hall, and be ready to kill it!"

[ooc: Wow, i`m late... Will have to get Vegana to kick me to posting...]

The Cherubim looked a bit frustrated, especially at their commander. It would have been far easier to arrest them in the morning, but for some reason, he seemed to have a thing for this 'antiterror action'.

Now, they paid the price. It was the disadvantage of believing in blood and honour: They would never retreat, just attack, no matter how high the casualities would be...

Slowly, they moved forward, peered around just to face the bullets. A few swears in latin could be heard, then, the smoke grenades and the tear gas flew into the direction of the group of Justitium guards.

They knew their orders: Get them alive, we need them

And they would follow this orders, even if it would mean that they had to die...

Captain Josip Gagarin hastily ordered the conscious Justitians into two ranks across the bordinghouse hallway, the front kneeling and the rear standing, and all raised their rifles and aligned their sights toward a turn in the hallway only twenty feet away; the only possible approach to their position, unless the enemy entered through the windows. That was too dangerous, he knew, as it would expose them several at a time and the bodyguards would easily pick them off. It had taken him a split second to discard that possibility. Sweat beaded on his forehead and stung his eyes as he waited for the inevitable assault, but he did not move an inch or even blink.

The Cherub that poked his head around the corner recieved a high-powered round through the skull from Gagarin's rifle for his courage. His comrades quickly followed undeterred, though, and the People's Army rifles spoke with one voice, deafening him for a moment at such close proximity. Again and again they fired, but the Cherubim continued to pour into the hall. Clearly, he was badly outnumbered. He knew about the EC soldiers, had fought them in Um Lizaa, and at close quarters they did not perform well, encumbered by their wings. He had also learned that they would not stop coming no matter how much resistance the guards could mount, not until every last one was dead.

His thoughts utterly focused on aiming his rifle and firing, Gagarin had not noticed at first but now was quite surprised that the enemy was not firing back; so they were to be captured. From the rear, grenades were lobbed forward, and rolled down the hall to rest at the guards' feet. "Maintain your positions! They aren't lethal!" Smoke burst forth and filled the hallway, blinding him to all but the nearest Cherub, who were drawing nearer, much too near. Gagarin's eyes misted and burned, his nose gushed. Shooting had just become more a danger than an asset. In truth, he had never expected to engage in hand-to-hand combat, but here it was. "Comrades, cease fire! For justice and honor, charge!"

A ferocious cry went up as the Justitians lowered their rifles and thundered forward. Gagarin met the lead Cherub with a powerful blow to the skull with his rifle's butt. The Cherubim's bones were light and brittle; they were built for flight. He had the upper hand. The next winged form tried to block his thrusts, but he lunged forward again and again with all his strength until his sword bayonet was buried, fully one foot of steel, in the creature's chest. Through his hazed eyes he saw red everywhere.

***

Svetlana Tereshkova knelt over Envoy Guevara's unconscious form, ensuring that he was breathing and had a pulse. Behind her, shots rang out, and she recognized the signature of the SVT but nothing else. Odd, but she had no time to be puzzled. From her satchel she carefully but quickly romoved a syringe and tiny vial, punctured the vial's cover with the needle, pulled back the plunger, cleared the syringe of bubbles and plunged it into Guevara's arm. There was no time for a tournicate, either, but the diplomat had pronounced veins and she would not miss her mark.

Abruptly and jerkily the man sat up, eyes wide, frantically gasping for air: The adrenaline had done its work. "Comrade-Envoy," she shouted, as clearly as possible over the din of gunfire and screams, "we have been betrayed. You were gassed, and we are being assaulted!" He looked unbelieving and befuddled for a moment, but soon he reached under his arm and drew his pistol, chambering a round as gazed at the medic with determination.
"Then let's get out of here if we can, Tereshkova." He patted her back as they rose to their feet, the medic steadying the envoy and unslinging her rifle.

And another occasional post i the occasional postings thread... *looks ashamed*

ic:

The defence was exceptionally strong, but it didn´t matter that much... After all, they were far superior in numbers. Not to mention that their 'targets' could hardly move... anywhere.

God save the tranquillizer. They could see each other die, but one after another, their targets fell down. Still, their casualities were high... And it wasn´t over, yet... Althought they had the advantage of having the building completely surrounded, so it was fairly unlikely that anyone could escape.

And so, it continued...