NationStates Jolt Archive

(screen shows a fair haired man with light blue eyes in a formal suit with a scarlet sash, sitting behind a desk. The speech is televised on a network available to satellites)
"To fellow subjects of Lavenrunz, and to the international community.
Following countless oppressions under the tyrannous regency of Menelmacar, the Christian-Nationalist party has been forced to seize control of the state, with the assistance of loyal officers of the army, navy and air force. It is also our intention to liberate the Empress, who, an innocent child, is still in the hands of the Elentari of Menelmacar.
In spite of our peaceful actions and far from hidden agenda, we have been attacked by insurgents within Lavenrunz and are threatened by foreign armies from without. These armies can have but one intention: to destroy our freedom for the sake of their greed which is bound up in the Menelmacari businesses that have fluorished under the Regency.

We ask only to be permitted to restore order to our country and hold a general election, in accordance with our constitution, to let the people decide what government they want. We ask that the Empress be raised in our traditions, to serve the needs of our people.

Should we not get the support we require from SATO or the United Nations we will get it from the Reich, GDODAD or Arda if need be.
As a man devoted to God's Word, I swear this: all we want is the best for our counry.

IC:
Dear fellow brothers and sisters in Lavenrunz, Dear fellow leaders of the international community. The people of Lavenrunz wants to make their voices heard, what is so wrong with that? Under the elven oppression they have felt their personal pride and culture diminish under the evil reign of the elven Harlot. They have screamed out their frustration and rage many time to deaf pointy ears. And now, when they cannot bear it anymore, their lives and futures will be crushed beneath the spiked heel of an old bitter elven queen living her life in the delusions of former grandeur. Not a second did go after the freedom fighters had left the leaders alive and unscathed until the first elven nation offered to fly in with hundred of thousands alien troops to trample the Lavenrunzian soil. How come a race that has such a reknown acute hearing never applies it for listening to the pleas of humans? I know not all Lavenrunzians have been hurt by the elven rule, some may even have gained by it, and so be it. But what are the elves afraid of when they don't allow a free election? The wonderful nation of Vegana has decided to donate 100 million dollars for helping the people of Lavenrunz to have a free election. We have also decided to offer to deploy 40 electoral surveyers to keep the election free from manipulation.

Jaar stood up after holding his speech and the camera had gone blank, he turned to one of his aides:

"Wire 40 million dollars from a few of our untraceable bank accounts to this christian-Nationalist party. I want the money marked, "Fighting for Equality", they'll need it for an election. Also prepare to be able to wire 100 million dollars to another account when we receive word of where the money will be delivered."

The message was replayed in full on several news networks; notably, in the Confederacy at least, Senator Laurinda Frost, the confederate vice president, was interviewed on the speech on a 10PM news programme. She appeared quite relaxed by the entire thing, sitting in a relaxed and informal posture behind a wooden table, she gave a commentary, with her finger on the pause button, playing parts of the speech, and then pausing and adding her own comments.

"Firstly we see Mirbach here, claiming to be the Chancellor of Lavenrunz, despite not being appointed rightfully, the chancellor is in fact Chancellor Claudia der Waal, anyway, he then addresses the subjects of Lavenrunz, and the international community, and goes on to talk about some tyrannous behaviour on the part of Menelmacar. I for one have seen no evidence of any cruelty or undue harshness on the part of Elentári Sirithil, quite the opposite in fact, the terrorist activities of the Christian-nationalists are the only crime we have observed in Lavenrunz.

"He then claim to have the support of the armed forces, when available intel shows he currently controls two out of the eight Lavenrunzian army corps, we're not entirely sure about the other forces. We are unable to tell at this time precisely where the Empress of Lavenrunz is, but I for one ought to point out that the regent having the Empress with her is hardly unusual or illegal.

"Now, the next and blatantly untrue part is his claim that those fighting against him are the insurgents, despite the fact that he is attempting a coup. The man is posessed of frankly stunning gall. As for the intention of the foreign armies, I would suggest 'crushing the Christian-Nationalist insurrection,' as a more realistic reading.

"Mirbach can speak of democracy all he likes, but frankly, he is an insurrectionist criminal and a traitor, and, were he here right now, I would have him shot without trial. Finally he ends with a threat to bring in the Reich or Arda ot Lavenrunz. If he believes that the leadership of those two alliances would respect local tradition, customs, and self governance, he is not only a criminal, but a delusional criminal."

"If he wants what is best for his country, he should surrender himself to legitimate forces for trial."

#tag#

God bless,

The Republic of Syskeyia

-----------------------------
The War Room
the Hague, Knootoss
-----------------------------
A yellow light was flashing on and off, and all men and women were on their assigned position in the nervecentre of the Knootian military. The CAESAR system was working once again, whispering orders and requests in a soft female voice.

From his command post, the old General de Kaste watched the transmission as it was replayed on KNN. He projected an aura of calm, but inside he was fuming. He turned up the volume of the set.

“…Should we not get the support we require from SATO or the United Nations we will get it from the Reich, GDODAD or Arda if need be.
As a man devoted to God's Word, I swear this: all we want is the best for our country.”

---

Not on my shift you wont., he thought as he clenched his fists Damned reli instigators. The Reich must be behind this, knowing we’ll never go for such a cheap ploy. DAMN those devout bastards, you will be the undoing of us all. Sheesh… this is Der Angst all over again.

He snubbed to the woman next to him. His special assistant Tanya was off-duty and he missed her. “Prepare everything to deploy the forces as we discussed. The Empress can count on us this time and not even the most meekly pacifist politician is going to back out of this one. I want the para’s ready for departure in four hours."

He then switched on his mike for a message to all in the building.
We're going to high alert over the Lavenrunz situation, please be aware of the heightened security protocols. Don’t worry people. If Matty thinks he can be there before us he is so wrong. You've all been trained for this. I expect you all to do your jobs to the best of your abilities. De Kaste out."


OOC: Sure, I’ll consult with the Lavenrunzian ambassador in the other thread but the military has it’s mind made up.

[delivered by Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion from an undisclosed location]


"Again, I publicly condemn the actions and words of the usurper, Count Mirbach, knowing him to be both a traitor and a liar."

"Show us these supposed oppressions. Illustrate for us the tyrany you speak of. And while you're at it, explain to us how the Elentari could possibly be holding the Empress when you yourself were holding the Elentari, and several of us, against our wills? Dare you sith there and lie to the international community in the face of so many witnesses? Can you actually sit there and proclaim that you were not the one to initiate that despicable attack on the Palace of the Moon and Stars?"

"How dare you invoke the name of God and proclaim your devotion in the face of such atrocities and treachery as you are guilty of. From the very mouth of one of your victims are you condemned. The murdered Countess Isadora von Katori, with her dying breath, begged me to bring his misdeeds to light, naming him the perpetrator in her heinous attack."

"That the Empress be allowed to make her own decisions ought to be without question. That the traditions and beliefs of Lavenrunz be upheld in the way she sees fit, equally so. That the Empire of Lavenrunz be free of direct foreign entanglements, and wrongheaded domestic ones as well, I think should be obvious. However, insurrection, treason, and murder are not the ways to achieve it."

"Your rise to power is stained with the blood of innocents and those loyal to the Empress and the rightful government of Lavenrunz. Such bloodshed calls out for retribution and justice. You will pay for your crimes, Mirbach."

"As for elections, that, I would think, is for the Empress to decide, not one such as yourself. I can only hope that you have kept her safe and unharmed, for your sakes. Put aside this facade, and show the nations of the world that she is indeed safe from harm - she and the rest of the Imperial family. Put aside your lies and deceit, and for the good of your nation, stand down from this unrighteous and wrongful action."

"You cannot hope to achieve victory thus. If you truly love your country, and if you would yourself serve the needs of the people, I say restore the Empress and give yourself over to her mercies."

I can't say that we're overly surprised at the actions of the elvish witch-queen and her fiendish followers. Really, it's what we expected all along. However, we cannot blame the people of Lavenrunz for this lack of foresight, and they certainly do not deserve to suffer at the hands of the elves for it. It is clear that they do deserve an election-as is clearly outlined in their constitution-so that the people are not forced under a tyrannical elvish regime against their will. If the witch-queen has a shred of decency at all, surely she will allow this. After all, if she is in the right, then surely the people would vote to keep the regency anyways, correct? Think about that, nations of the world.

Bradley Steelblood
Overlord of Wretchengard

-----------------------------------------------

"We should support this Christian-Nationalist party," Warlord Baldur Grimwald spoke to his Overlord. "If Lavenrunz could be turned to an ally..."

"Yes, we would be ever closer to tipping the scales," the Overlord said, in deep thought. "Military support is out of the question, however. With Melkor's war of veneance almost underway, we cannot spare the forces. Financial aid, however..."

The Overlord dismissed the Warlord and began taking the necessary steps to insure that funds in the total of almost a billion USD would make their way into the Christian-Nationalist party's coffers...

[tag]

Meanwhile, Syskeyian comedians search their minds for derogatory mutations of the name "von Mirbach," already havig coined the name "Jaar-Jaar" in mocking Vegana's "benevolent" leader...

God bless,

The Republic of Syskeyia

tag for later IC response.

Though it is quite pointless to appeal to Count Mirbach's better nature - for he has none - we shall still make a few points.

Lady Nathicana has eloquently deflated your argument, so we will not point out your hypocrisy in that respect.

However, to further take on your blasphemy in using the name of Our Lord: you suggest that you may ally with Arda. Arda is led by Satanus himself, going by the name Melkor. Perhaps I am missing something here, but as a Christian nation, surely you oppose Satan in all his doings?

-Pope Kes

D'ron switched the holodisplay off in disgust, and muttered under his breath. "I grow tired of that man's bullshit."

And then he spoke up in a louder voice, "Cyrano, get me Ministers Currey and 117."

"Of course, Mister President."

D'ron waited a moment until both holograms phased into existence in his office. He wasted no time. "Have you seen Mirbach's transmission?"

Both holograms, linked to the people they were projecting, nodded as they did.

"And you are quite are that it is utter and complete bullshit, right?" Again, nods. "This is what I want, then. John, prepare the entire Cadre. Place the military and government on Alert Condition Three. 'Nathan, ready a FIST. Find a way to contact the loyalist faction. Ask for authorization to move. I want Mirbach and every single one of his top underlings eliminated. This farce of a revolution has gone on long enough. Joanna would not have wanted this. She was a good woman, Aurora seems to be a good woman. Sirithil, for all the fact she is an elf, is a good woman. Renate is a good woman. There is no reason for this to have been violent. It could have been decided peacefully. But they started. Now we will finish it. Out assistance should come as somewhat of a surprise, seeing out lack of former relations with Lavenrunz, so while the massive militaries of the elves and friends ready themselves to strike back, and distract Mirbach and cronies, we'll slip in. Is this understood?"

Both men nodded again. "Perfectly clear, Mister President."

"Good. Get to it." The holos vanished. "The Federation will not stand idly by while another nation falls to racism, arrogance and reactionary stupidity." D'ron muttered this last to himself.

Governor Styles picked up the handset on the comms unit and muttered a greeting, his eyes glued to the television in his office.

General Garrison's voice rumbled from the other end. "Have you seen this Lavenrunz broadcast?"

"I'm watching it for the second time, General. What are your thoughts?"

"It's such utter rubbish, sir. The man's a two-bit revolutionary who got lucky."

Governor Styles rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Is he?"

"You doubt it?"

"I don't know, I haven't been to Lavenrunz recently, General. I'm just about to contact our Embassy there myself. If they need military aid of any sort--"

"I'd advice against it, sir. Our forces are on heightened alert on the Reich and frankly, they're more of a threat to us than this... this..."

"Two-bit revolutionary?"

"Yes!"

"Hmm... All right. Thank you, General. Good luck in Street Island."

"Thank you sir."

The line went dead, but Governor Styles didn't put it down. He listened to the beeping as he looked at the news cast of von Mirbach, tapping a stuccato rhythm on his desk. Then he disconnected the line and pressed another button on the comms unit.

"Governor?"

"Mark. Get me a secure communication with this man, von Mirbach. And put me into contact with the Chimaean Intelligence Directory... I might have a job for their operators (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=83238)..."

Katarina viewed the communique by von Mirbach, and then shut herself up in her office with her accountants and Finance Minister for a solid 12 hours. By 1 o'clock in the morning the first installment of the subscribed 1 billion Marks had been wired to The Chrisitian-Nationalist Party. The transfer of the rest of the money would last all day, surely throwing the bankers of both nations into a frenzy.

http://www.blackmaxpc.com/avatarsmiles/avatars/gallery/Goth/sharan.gif

Katarina Herodotus
Regent of The Eternal Empire of Brass Rails

Official Message from the Treznor Imperial News Agency

Emperor Devon Treznor stands before the camera in full regalia, dressed in his traditional colours of black and silver. He addresses the audience with a somber expression.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the world, last night was witness to acts of terrorism and barbarism that herald a bleak future for Lavenrunz. Insurrectionist forces under the direction of Count Mirbach stormed the Palace during a peaceful international event and took nationals and international guests hostage. Violence was done by the insurrectionists, and grievous injury and insult were suffered by all. Although the terrorists released those international guests deemed neutral in the affair, I submit to you that this behaviour is only the beginning of what we can expect from Mirbach.

"Obviously, Mirbach's control over Lavenrunz is not nearly as complete as he would have you believe. His adherence to international propriety and law is equally bankrupt. He and his followers represent a clear and immediate threat to the stability of the region, and to the world. At this time, I have the bulk of the Treznor intersolar fleet in orbit above Lavenrunz ready to support the rightful government of Empress Aurora and Chancellor der Waal. We will not target any ship or installation unless directed by the legitimate government of that nation. However, we will not tolerate the criminal actions of Mirbach and his people, and this fleet is a reminder of that fact.

"I now offer a bounty on Count Mirbach's head. Fifty million golden dubloons to anyone offering information leading to the capture of this criminal. We don't want him dead; that's for Empress Aurora to decide. If his body is retrieved, we will offer thirty million dubloons upon verification that the body is, in fact, Count Mirbach.

"As a member of the Non-Democratic Alliance, I am bound by treaty and oath to maintain a policy of peaceful neutrality, to respect the internal governing of each and every nation regardless of my opinion of its government. However, Mirbach's criminal actions were not limited to his own people, he chose to perpetrate violence against a host of international leaders and guests. For this reason among others, I demand that he be brought to justice."

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

{Official International Broadcast from the Praetorship of the Drakonian Imperium}

The official seal of Drakonia appeared on a black background. Then it was gone, in the seal's place was the ornate Anglo-Romanic architecture of the Grand Praetorian Palace's Broadcast Studio. Two flags of the Imperium hung on the wall; The Black, Red and White of the Drakonian Flag seeming ever it's resolute and powerful self.

Augustus Drake, Praetor of the Imperium, walks calmly to the podium set up between the flags. "People of Drakonia, People of Lavenrunz, People of the World. I come to you today after a most distressing address by one Count Mirbach of Lavenrunz, self-proclaimed Chancellor."

"Drakonia has been long a friend of the people of Lavenrunz and her Empresses. We were befriended by Empress Joanna; a friendship built strong by the blood of both ours and Lavenrunzian soldiers that died fighting together, in East Turkestan, for our ideals.

"The actions of the Count Mirbach's Rebels at the Winter Ball in Lavenrunz, put both myself and my Queen in danger. The Imperium takes very seriously when any of it's citizens are needlessly endangered. More so when that is our rulers. That position is mirrored my own anger at the endangerment of my wife's life. The Imperium will not forget those actions, as will I. We vow that he will be charged for his crimes.

"In the meantime, our nation of Drakonia is plagued by the problem as to how to act in the light of this open coup in Lavenrunz. It has been stated that outside influences are controlling Lavenrunz and for now, as allies of the Empress, Drakonia will not be send military forces to help crush this heinous and evil rebellion against the true government of that nation. We believe this to be the will of Empress Aurora, our ally.

"For now, Drakonia will be forced to wait, but I warn his imfamy Count Mirbach. That we will not long sit idle. We will see his end."

The Praetor his face firm, his stance unyielding disappeared from the broadcast. The seal of Drakonia was again visible and then the broadcast was over.

{Undisclosed Location in Asia}

In a dark, large, and richly decorated office a shadowed figure slouched in a plush chair behind a massive desk. The figure was dressed in an expensive suit and looked a though the man hadn't shaved in a few days. He was thin and guant, but nevertheless muscular. Behind him a large ornate wood panel was sliding in front of a television monitor that had just turned off.

A malevolent thought passed through the mind of the figure.

The man pressed a button on his desk and within a minute an oriental man, also dressed in a very expensive black suit entered the shadowed office.

"I think it is time," the figure behind the desk stated coldly.

An eyebrow raised. "Are you sure," the oriental man, Li Zahn, cautioned.

"Oh, I am sure," was the shadows response. "Have you been keeping up with the situation in Lavenrunz?"

"Of course," Li Zahn replied tersely.

"Then you haven't missed the chance for profit?" The question seemed to ask for a weakness from the other man.

"No, I have not." Again the reply was quick and short.

A self-serving smile crept across the face of the shadowed man. "Then you know what to do. Contact, Mirbach. Offer our services."

We ask only to be permitted to restore order to our country and hold a general election, in accordance with our constitution, to let the people decide what government they want. We ask that the Empress be raised in our traditions, to serve the needs of our people.

"To all the world - let the nation of Lavenrunz find its own path and destiny. It is their sovereign right."

(Count Mirbach, shown in his study, addresses the international community via satellite transmission)
"It can be easily seen by the reactions of our detractors what a travesty they make of justice.
First of all, none of these people vowing revenge and wanting prosecution have appealed to the puppet government of Claudia der Waal or the Regency of Sirithil nos Feanor for justice should I be captured.
No.
They say that I am a criminal. That I am a liar. If I am either of these things, may God strike me dead. I was reluctant to give up the quiet life in the country that I had after my retirement from the Diplomatic Corps, but my country's need called to me, and I answered.
My chief accusors are themselves tyrants. The Dread Lady Nathicana, the worst of them, is a notorious fence sitter, siding with Arda, GDODAD or SATO as it pleases her, often with more than one alliance at the same time.
But still more dreadful than this. Security tapes from Hofburg International Airport show that Lady Nathicana kidnapped our Empress Constant communications have been flying between her, Treznor and Sentient Peoples.
(here a film shows the Dread Lady Nathicana dragging an unconscious Aurora into a shuttle and taking off into the sky)
Treznor has sent warships into Lavenrunzian space. I must stress that no harm was done to Treznor's Emperor, yet he has all but declared war on us. For what?
The answer is simple. These people are the same coterie of metahumanity and their puppets. The reason for the Elentari's silence is that she needs say nothing; her servants are doing all the work for her, moving to crush our nascent freedom.
I will not stand for it. I call for condemnation of the Emperor Treznor and his vile warmongering. I demand that Lady Nathicana return our Empress to us.
With reluctance--for I am a man of peace--I am calling the armed services up to protect our country from the ravages of the tyrants--Menelmacar, Treznor, Dread Lady Nathicana, Drakonia and Sentient Peoples who have formed an alliance to exploit us--or if we should be to resolute in opposite--to destroy us.
In the name of God and freedom, I will not permit this to happen.

The news service in Indiastan was usually a step or so behind its international competition, but that never seemed to both anyone. Most people didn't watch the news as it was. Still, the broadcasts of one Count Mirbach did perk more then a few ears; everyone seemed to enjoy the footage of other people's wars. The Foreign Ministry was not the least of those concerned, though not much of a relationship existed with Lavenrunz, things always changed. The current vice-minister and spokesperson, Vijay Saar, released a statement to the media at large.

"We at the foreign ministry are indeed most concerned with the developments in Lavenrunz, and are closely monitoring the situation. In and effort to stem any problems that might arise from this apparent "coup", we would heartily suggest that a general election be called. And, for the sake of the people of Lavenrunz, outside aid simply must be outlawed. Both sides have enough to lose that they will fund and support factions within Lavenrunz extensivly, leaving the people to be caught between the two sides in a proxy war of ideology. And this is most certainly not what the people want. Thank you."

[Delivered from a non-disclosed location, sitting behind an antique desk in a simple but tastefully appointed office]

"It is clear to me that Count Mirbach is not only a criminal of the worst degree, but a fool as well. Allow me to address the points of his most recent broadcast as they were delivered, that I might better shed light on an already murky situation."

"Never once have I personally given anything but support for the rightful government of Lavenrunz - that of Empress Aurora and those rightfully appointed by the will of her mother, the late Joanna von Sachausen, può si riposa nella pace."

"Also, it offends me to the core of my being that this monster continues to not only sully the good name of his nation, but to dare invoke God's name and protection as a cover for his lies, knowing full well the effect such fervent talk can have on such a faithful nation as Lavenrunz and many of her allies. One can only hope God will strike him dead for his treachery and blasphemy."

"Tyrant I may be, but a fencesitter, hardly. Never have I sided with GDODAD, or SATO, having no ties with either organization. My ties with Arda have been those of simple trade, which the last time I checked, was no crime. Were this a problem, I am certain those in my alliances, The Triumvirate of Yut - a most respectable organization - and the Non-Democratic Alliance - yet another, would have had more than a few things to say about it. My ties have never once conflicted with one another, and I have remained loyal to both, without question."

"Now to the more pressing matter of the outrageous claims of kidnapping. Firstly, communications most certainly had not been flying back and forth between anyone, as communications were jammed by Mirbach and his cronies."

"Secondly, what of charges of manhandling, gassing, stripping and threatening of so many international guests at the Ball? Have you no shame, Mirbach? Have you no decency?"

"Thirdly, and most importantly, I 'kidnapped' no one. The woman I referred to before in my account of escape, was indeed Aurora herself. She led me safely out of the palace, under no duress, and of her own free will. Never once did I attempt to take advantage of the situation nor show anything but respect for the brave young woman, so brutally treated by Mirbach and his cadre. The reason I am shown in that footage with the Empress unconscious, is on account of a mild injury she recieved while piloting our escape vehicle. A low fence at the airport was clipped, and we came down hard in that horrendous snowstorm. Unable to know whom to trust there in Lavenrunz, and knowing only that I had to act quickly to ensure that Aurora was indeed not suffering from any serious injury, I decided that the most prudent course of action was to get her to my shuttle, and as quickly as possible, to trained medical personnel. I flew her back home to the Dominion, where she was treated and released with nothing more than a slight bump to the head, and no lasting damage. Should any doubt my word, I have on hand medical transcripts and witnesses who will back my claim."

"Now to pre-emptively move on to the whereabouts of Empress Aurora now, as I am quite certain such questions will be asked. I cannot return what I do not hold. The Empress was never in my custody, and only briefly in my care. She was released, at her request, into the care of a trusted Lavenrunz official, whom I have been asked not to name at this time. Due to the Empress not having reached the age of majority as yet, this was seen as right and proper. Given this fact, it would not have been appropriate for myself, as a foreign power, to be keeping her in my own nation during this time of upheaval without the express permission and blessing of her regents and chancellor, especially given the delicate political climate in Lavenrunz, and the rather stringent dislike and mistrust of foreigners therein. This being said, I cannot answer questions as to where Aurora is at this time."

"I do know that no harm came to her while in my company, and that when she chose to leave, it was in the company of a loyal Imperial subject of her choosing. I was not privy to information concerning her destination, nor do I have any knowledge of her intentions. What I did witness in our short time together was a strong sense of duty, pride in her nation and heritage and an unwavering faith in God to help her through this time of trouble."

"On to the honorable Emperor Treznor, who's name has been defile by this snake who would take Lavenrunz by force. I have never, in all the time I have known him, seen the Emperor to be a warmongerer. He has always sued for peace and negotiations before action. Our alliance is founded on such precepts, and was originally, his vision to begin with. He has done no such thing as declare war. He has enacted a state of watchfulness - for which I at least, am grateful, given the circumstances. No harm was done, you say? I beg to differ."

"As for claims of puppetry and the supposed 'metahuman menace' that this treacherous dog keeps maundering on about, I dismiss them for the baseless and ridiculous things they are. Never once in all its history has the Dominion ever bowed its head to a foreign power, nor would I even think to allow that now. We have always been vehemently independant, and I should note, always a nation of humble human beings. My only connection to Lady Sirithil is through our alliance. I will further note, to those skeptics out there who say this is enough for proof, that I am on public record as questioning, even standing against her on issues as often or more as I have stood with her. The title 'ally' does not always mean a united front when it comes to policy and opinion, after all."

"I challenge you, Mirbach. Were you truly a man of peace as you claim, you would never have resorted to the methods you have in this action. Was it peace that drove you to slaughter your own people at the palace? The halls and grounds of that once fair edifice were littered with the bodies of slain Jaegers last I looked. Was peace your foremost thought when you threatened and put in danger so many international leaders and diplomats with your foolhardy takeover? Your actions give you the lie."

"For the final accusation, I say this: Menelmacar and Treznor are indeed allies, and those ties have had nothing whatsoever to do with the unfortunate situation in Lavenrunz. We have never had dealings, nor do we at present, with the nation of Drakonia. The Federation of Sentient Peoples is a trading partner, with whom ties have but recently been re-established, no more, no less. Where, I ask you, is this plot and coalition of foreign devils that you claim, my delusional Count? You have built it up in your own mind, and now seek to misdirect the attentions of the world and your own countrymen away from your misdeeds and warmongering actions."

"I myself have no interest in seeing Lavenrunz destroyed. It would be a crime to see fall such an honorable bastion of faith and strength. May the steadfast citizens see the truth of these matters, and act accordingly. I beseech you, do not allow the lies of this man sway you. Hold true to your faith, and your Empress. Rise up against this usurper. You who would hold your honor, denounce this foul traitor, and defend your proud nation from the true danger - Mirbach."

"May God watch over and protect the truehearted and faithful of Lavenrunz in this dark hour."

"In Lavenrunz, the bells ring with joy for liberty and restoration of our freedom to worship. For we have won a great battle. The Regent Sirithil nos Feanor, Elentari of Menelmacar, has been driven out of our capital. This so called invincible queen, with her Mornahosse thugs whom she uses as casually as other more responsible leaders would put forth diplomatic overtures, has fled Hofburg with her tail between her legs.
(film shows the Gilthoniel retreating from missile fire and shows fighter jets streaking through the air around it)
So much for the Regent. Now it is for us to continue our work--to finish freeing our country from tyranny."

Count Mirbach

"And now, KQCB News at Six." Carp knew the routine by heart. As soon as the prerecorded voice and the opening music stopped, the light under the camera pointed at him turned from red to green. Carp cleared his throat and began speaking.

"Good evening Glorious Humanity. Our top story tonight is the continuing events in Lavenrunz, and the world's reaction to them. The government has finally released an official statement regarding the coup organized by one Count Mirbach. Earlier today, Minister Frank Pierce of International Relations made the following speech."

The news program now showed a video of Pierce's speech. Pierce was standing behind a podium, the Glorious Humanity flag hanging behind him.

"We shall not at this time take any action," Pierce was saying. "Though Count Mirbach's actions were reprehensible, no harm came to our President, and far be it from us to invade a country like warmongers. This... rebellion is a Lavenrunzian matter, and we will not make it our business to try to dictate the affairs of another sovereign nation. At this time, Glorious Humanity shall remain neutral in this war. Thank you."

The camera switched back to Carp. "Already the speech has inspired a public outcry, as pro-war and anti-war advocates both took to the streets, some to congratulate the government's decision, and others to ridicule it. However, Pierce has stated that Glorious Humanity's decision is made, and will hold firm. In other news..."

*************************************************************

At a click of the remote in Pierce's hand, the television in the Situation Room shut off. Generals Ablegard, Hanoway, and Washington, as well as Minister Pierce and Director Fox, were all there, watching the broadcast.

"I gotta hand it to you Pierce," Ablegard commented. "You've got a talent for bullshitting."

"I resent that, General," Pierce's grin said he didn't though. "I didn't utter a single lie in that speech. Officially, we are neutral. And officially, I don't know anything about what Fox over there is cooking up."

Another message was sent, by the same satilite above Lavenrunz that had broadcasted General Theallas' message to the people of Lavenrunz, this time, the speaker was Commander Netari, "I speak to the world today, on account of the situation in Lavenrunz. In the past Thelas has had a history of war, Knootoss, short conflicts in other places, and small conflicts with Xanthal. This time, we are justified, the people of Laverunz will learn that these oppressors, lead not by Count Mirbach, but by the leader of The Reich. I will tell you what the Thelasian Millitary Intellegence description of this nation is,

'Iesus Christi is a land of confusion for any examiner. The people are some of the most compationate in the world, yet their government practices some of the most horrible torture methods ever devised. Many historians may even compare them to the horrors of Angband. Thier leaders tend to be fanatics, beleiving 'Meta-Humans' (elves, cat people) to be infiror, and even Demons.'

That is a short exerpt. Iesus Christi and the Reich will soon recind that right to worship, even thought I doubt that really exists, and is not just propaganda.

Finally, a message to Count Mirbach,

You threaten to join the Reich, did you now know that now your nation will be invaded, that many nations will destroy you? God be with you Count, I hope you realise your mistake before your death.

I say to all,

Thelas will not let this stand, This... Will... Not... Stand This will not stand. This will not stand. This will not stand. "

As before and as always what we have given will continue, what we promised is on its way and what more you desire and all you have from us already is at your command and your command alone.
Matthew Iesus


The famous poem layed down for the Brave of Lavenrunz(by rumi-seems to fit Mirbach/etc)
He Comes
He comes, a moon whose like the sky ne'er saw, awake or dreaming.
Crowned with eternal flame no flood can lay.
Lo, from the flagon of thy love, O Lord, my soul is swimming,
And ruined all my body's house of clay!

When first the Giver of the grape my lonely heart befriended,
Wine fired my bosom and my veins filled up;
But when his image all min eye possessed, a voice descended:
'Well done, O sovereign Wine and peerless Cup!'

Love's mighty arm from roof to base each dark abode is hewing,
Where chinks reluctant catch a golden ray.
My heart, when Love's sea of a sudden burst into its viewing,
Leaped headlong in, with 'Find me now who may!'

As, the sun moving, clouds behind him run,
All hearts attend thee, O Tabriz's Sun!

Jessica read back over her words, in this, her final draft of the letter to Aurora.

Aurora von Sachshausen
Empress of the Tuetonic Empire of Lavenrunz

Dear Empress Aurora,

Perhaps you remember me from the Winter Ball, or perhaps you do not. I am Jessica Smith, from the Federation of Sentient Peoples. I was presented by the Baron von Ehrfurt, soon after the meal, and before all the unpleasantness occurred.

I must say, you certainly know how to throw a good party, though Count Mirbach seems to not to know much about friendliness. As it is, I grow concerned with what I am seeing in Lavenrunz. Mirbach bothers me, Empress. Indeed, he frightens me. Not so much as a person, but in what he represents. His policies of fear and hatred are not what this world needs, and I seriously doubt what your nation needs either.

For as a wise man once said, "Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all transgressions." (The Proverbs 10:12) I have seen, both from independant sources, and from the reports and conversations of my brother, at you have been approached by both the Riech and by the Arda Alliance. This is good, for peaceful contact must be encouraged. But I beg of you, do not fall pray to their politics and policies of hatred and racism, which Mirbach seems to share.

For after all, the Riech proclaims that the elves, and other non-human species are creations of the Devil, and therefore attempts to justify its hatred. But it is written in the word of God, of Eru-Father God, "Worthy art Thou, our Lord and our God, to recieve glory and honor and power; for Thou didst create all things, and because of Thy will they existed, and were created." (The Revelation to John, 4:11) God created the elves, and those of the other non-human races, and it is by his will they exist. After all, the Devil has no power to create, only destroy and pervert.

As for the Arda Alliance? Their hatred is based on a response to a centuries old crime they commited. Their irrational hatred is not what I believe is good for anyone.

And because the religion of the elves, and that of other nations does not match yours is no reason to fear or hate. There is nothing to be gained, and plenty to be lost by such a course.

You have a position from which to increase peace, and to tear down walls of hatred and fear, and for that I envy you, Empress. Use that wisely, as I know that your mother instructed you to.

I hope one day to meet you again, Empress Aurora, in more pleasant times. I shall remain as your friend, and should you need me, feel free to call upon me. As you have seen, the Federation serves the interests of peace, and so do I.

As we are friends, let not hate and fear tear us apart, and let peace and understanding bind us. There is no place in this world for more hatred, for it only brings death, destruction, and sadness, which we most assurdedly do not need.

Come out of this stronger, and do not allow others to sway you from what in your heart you know to be the proper path.

Until we meet again, Empress, I remain your friend,

Jessica Smith

P.S. I agree with your decision to sack Lady Sirithil. You need your country run from within.

It was a good letter, and Jessica hoped, not one that would be read as manipulative. Her heart told her it wouldn't be, based on simply her short meeting with Aurora at the Ball. Hopefully Aurora had seen her as well.

She was a friend, who simply wished to help.

She placed two seals over the flap of the envelope, one, that of the Federation, and the other of the Smith family. Their glossy presence would assure her the hand-written letter would reach the Empress untampered with, as Jessica had no trust of Mirbach. Or if it was, the tampering would be known.

Aurora sat in her quiet study, looking over the letter. Then she looked out the window where great soft flakes of snow were falling silently.
Her bible lay open on her desk as well, with a warning from Ecclesiastes.
Remember also thy Creator in the days of thy youth,
Or ever the evil days come,
And the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say,
"I have no pleasure in them"...
She took a breath and felt a lightness in her heart.


Dear Ms. Smith

I remember meeting you at the party very briefly, but I also remember seeing you afterward, when we were all in danger together.
I am sorrier than I can tell you that you were treated so. It would mean a lot to me if I could make it up to you by inviting you to Lavenrunz once again at some point.
Because of your letter I have taken heart again; I feel a strengthening of my faith and my courage.
There are a lot of people who are afraid, skeptical because I want peace with the Reich, but I hope you believe me when I say that I won't sell my country or my people for that peace.
There was a ruler of Lavenrunz who was my age, Heinrich the Young he was called, and he re-united Lavenrunz when it was torn apart by a dynastic struggle. I believe that I can do as well as he did.
Thank you for your friendship and your faith.
Your Friend

Aurora von Sachshausen

Jessica smiled as she read the return letter, as she fingered her pen to compose a response. And then...

Aurora von Sachshausen
Empress of the Tuetonic Empire of Lavenrunz

Dear Empress Aurora,

I'd be delighted to return to Lavenrunz in a less stressful time, and home that one day I can return your hospitality. But there is no need for you to apologize for the deeds of others, Empress, especially not Mirbach.

As for your strength and faith, I know that you will do as well as Heinrich the Young for Lavenrunz, and you will repair the wounds this time has caused in your nation.

Again, I applaud your desire for peace, even with the Reich, for peace leads the way to lasting change.

I am glad I have been of service to you, and look forward to a time when I may meet you again.

As always, your friend,

Jessica Smith

It would do, as a response. Again, she sealed it as before, and sent the letter off.