NationStates Jolt Archive

[OOC:

Reading of this little thread (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=312631) is advised before even attempting to make a jump into this one. ]

Open address of the Ruling Council to the population of the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka.

Dear Citizens, Brothers and Sisters,

It is in time of great sorrow that we address you. The recent conflict in Aphyr has shaken the very foundations of our society, our traditions, our history. Countless lives have been lost in a war that surpassed any others known by our great nation. Never before was the Grand Duchy faced with such a level of destruction. Five hundred million lives lost over several months. We grieve with you and we understand your anger as of why such a tragedy was allowed to happen.

The answers are many, but the main reason is our blind attachment to long outdated traditions. We, of the Ruling Council, as all citizens of the Grand Duchy, are proud of our Motherland’s history, of our culture and traditions. But we must not stand prisoners of the past; we must not become victims of memories. We must turn our gazes to the future. What do we reserve for our children? A world plunged into useless bureaucracy and ceremonies? A world of plutocracy? A world of chaos in which the people are to abide by the will of the 'Heirs to the Sword' and be pawns in their chess game? That is the world the Grand Dukes have been preparing for our children. While the ruling elite became richer and more powerful day by day, the might of the Grand Duchy both on the domestic and international scales decreased dramatically.

It is time to break the feudal chains that have been enslaving you for so long. The Dynasty is no more. As much as we are grateful to the Grand Dukes for their sacrifice, they were the cause of the Plague. They were the cause and they were the healers. Now, the relatives of the Grand Duke have fled the Metropoly to our Outer Fiefdoms. We let them leave in peace and we tell them to forget all of their rights to the throne, for there is no throne. There is no Grand Duke. Archduchess Vethara Shakhovskaya herself is in cowardly hiding. The Grand Duchy is no more, long live the Federation. From times of darkness and chaos we enter the light and order of a new era.

We, of the Ruling Council, will put all our strength into bringing the Federation to the heights the Grand Duchy never knew. But the transition will require a collective effort from the entire population. Today, we have dissolved the Council of Duchy, this useless and powerless institution whose only purpose was to drain additional funds from the budget. Earlier, we have detained the corrupt members of the High Council for questioning. The information they will provide is vital for a successful reconstruction and restructuring of the governmental institutions. Reforms will be conducted in the military, the space fleet, the administrative fields, legal, political and economic fields. As of now, the local power in the provinces will be held by appointed military governors. These officials will report directly to us and we hope that the population cooperates fully with them.

The transition phase will be difficult and might prove painful, but we are confident that united, the people of the Federation will succeed. We ask all citizens to unite under the Taraskovyan banner and to cease the ethnic and religious violence that has been erupting sporadically all over the Metropoly lately. All unauthorized civic militia are to disarm or face liquidation.

On that, the Ruling Council offers its condolences to the families of ones fallen during the Plague. We grieve with you over your loss and the memories of the lost ones will forever endure, but you must stand strong and face the bright future ahead of us!

Ruling Councilors of the Taraskovyan Federation,
General-Colonel Mstivoy Ustinov
Leib-Admiral Konstantin Puchinov
Marshal Vladimir Voevodov

[OOC: More to come later. Still in Moscow, so... typing capacities minimal.
I just hope I haven't done that many typing mistakes o.0
And yeah, I know, hypocrisy all the way. Those who knew GDT well enough will understand immediately :) ]

OOC: Just a wee bit of hypocrisy. And out in Alpha Centauri the Valinor nobility and Emperor Gustav II grab their bowl of popcorn, their Pink Bunny Cola, and their over-stuffed easy chairs. They settle in for a dinner and a movie night, courtesy of the loathed Taraskovyans. It's kind of like the Ortagan Hegemony, the government can call itself whatever it wants....most likely nothing will change.

most likely nothing will change.

OOC: Well, something will change. But... not right now. :)

Palace of the High Council,
Capital City of Vigvar,
Taraskovyan Federation,
Sisgardia.

The head of the table was empty. The high chair in which the Grand Duke used to sit stood vacant, none of the Ruling Councilors daring to take the place of the former ruler. And so they sat along the sides, discussing the latest events and measures to be taken.

- We will need to appoint some temporary chiefs of Departments until we reform all that mess, - Voevodov said and rubbed his chin.

Ustinov nodded.

- Indeed. Maybe we were a bit fast on the matter. Peter, did Sineglaziev talk?
- Not yet. I have ordered his transfer to the ‘Hold’. Maybe the wardens there will make him talk.
- I just hope they don’t kill him, - Puchinov grinned. - It would be most unfortunate.
- They are known to be sadistic torturers, not killers…
- Have you found the central TDI archive?
- Not yet. We have the local TDI archives both at home and in our embassies and consulates abroad. We have the TNSD central archive. Actually, the TNSD is far more cooperative than the TDI and…
- Yes, yes, we need the TDI central archive.
- I will find it. Unfortunately, Sineglaziev had the time to use the TDI Black Wolves to make a sweep through the Department, eliminating a bit everyone who knew much and who would talk…

The three Ruling Councilors only shook their heads and sighed.

- Have you located Vethara at least?
- Yes, the Kaskad is taking appropriate measures…
- Good. You can go, Voronov.
- Of course.

When the head of the Kaskad exited the room, the Ruling Councilors plunged back into the dossiers.

- Konstantin…
- Yes, Vladimir?
- Don’t you think the TSC-1 costs too much and only has a mediocre producing capacity?
- It is as obvious as snow in winter! The TSF has designs for a new type of modular shipyards, but the Grand Duke did not want to replace the TSC-1 with them.
- Well then, the Grand Duke is gone… we’ll need a place to deploy them…
- Earth orbit and Solar system are out of question… that would attract unnecessary attention… Konstantin, any ideas?
- I think I do have a place in mind… I will dispatch a TSF team to the system at once and communicate you with the results…
- Good. It is time we brought the Space Fleet to power, instead of some isolated ‘Battlegroups’. Now, next issue… reform of administrative division of territory…
- Call the consultants in… anything scheduled for tonight, Gentlemen?
- No…
- Nothing.
- Good, because we’re in for a week at least.
- I’ll order some coffee…

//OOC: Although due to internal administrative problems I am unable to state any official action, I am interested, for the sake of future events on the Region, on the evolution of this thread. We can then treat this post as a hybrid of tag, subscription, and a bit of bump.

Vigvar Daily

Vertev’s Technologies Acquires Vortex Corporations.

The Adminstrative Council of Vertech announced earlier that the southern neighbour of the Federation has been acquired by it. This statement comes as a scandal erupted about the credits that VerTech granted to the Vortex Corps and that was not repaid. It would now appear that all territories belonging to the Vortex Corporation, through VerTech and the jungle of Taraskovyan laws, became Federal property. The Ruling Council has already declared, that the Federation will be annexing the Corporate territories in Cardinia and the Utharian Peninsula. The Windlust Islands and the corporate holdings in Kaszidra will be put under SFN authority. To add to that, a purchase of land has been concluded between the Federal authorities and Zethkur. Indeed, the new territories will double the Federal holdings in Dakathia and Tarvalak.

In this article, we will be exploring the advantages and disadvantages that the new territories will bring to the Federation as well as possible consequences of unifying the Federal and Corporate citizens under one banner…

***

Federal Watcher

Combats erupt in Ekaterinburg between the White Legion, Polish militias and Federal Forces.

The fighting in Ekaterinburg has entered its second week, with casualties rising on every side of the conflict. The fighting was sparked a week ago when the body of a Russian woman of 19 years was found on the 2nd Level in an area populated mostly by representatives of the Polish ethnicity. The young woman was raped and her throat cut. Outraged members of the Russian ethnicity broke into the Polish area and caused some damage to the infrastructure as well as injured many polish. The Police has moved in and broke the riot, arresting a hundred individuals from both sides. However, later that night, an armed group from the Radical Military Organization ‘White Legion’, which primarily consists of TNDF veterans and reservists, attacked several police and one military armouries in Ekaterinburg. Two police armories, as well as the military one were taken over when their guards took the side of the White Legion and the equipment looted. The White Legion also took over a large number of police and military vehicles. In the morning, organized White Legion squads, wearing combat armor, broke back into the Polish area, crushing the Police block posts. Additional police forces were sent in, but failed to restore calm. In the meanwhile, the White Legion members took control of Levels 2, 3, and 4 in the Tsarski District of the city, the Police managing to keep control of the 1st Level and blocking the rebel advance into the Underground Levels. With the Top 4th Level in their control, White Legion members set up defensive positions on the roofs of the buildings, wielding anti-aircraft and heavy weaponry. Caught in the fighting was the elven Diaspora in the Tsarski District. However, outgunned and outnumbered by the White Legion, the elves had to withdraw into several buildings and set up a defense there.

As of now, the Tsarski District has been sealed off by the Interior Guard. The 1st Level was reinforced with additional troops. Elements of the 1st Airbourne are currently leading the assault into the rebellious territory by taking over the perimeter buildings one by one and passing them on to the Interior Guard and the Police to be secured…

***
Airspace above Ekaterinburg,
Taraskovyan Federation.

Up in the skies, the stars shone brightly and the moon was full. The dropships flew above the storm clouds beneath, which were entirely hiding the surface from the eyes of the pilots. The sky was so peaceful that none of the pilots was really eager to dive into that dark grey cloud ocean that was pouring its content down on the city. Below, the fight was still on. The elves were beaten by the White Legion and forces to take refuge in a single building, merely controlling the top level of it. From the roofs all around, White Legion snipers were having a target practice and troopers below progressed closer to the entrance. The fight was on the top level, the Legionnaires managing to take position in the 3rd Level and begin progressing up towards the 4th. It was clear that left unchecked, they would soon take full control of the District. And while certain elements of the 1st Airbourne Division were busy retaking buildings on the perimeter, several companies of the 3rd Parachute Regiment assigned to that same division were ordered to secure the area around the elven stronghold and prevent a massacre. The schematic was rather simple and already applied on numerous occasion during the operation – the paratroops would get dropped straight on the roof of the buildings and from here begin progressing downwards. When the roofs have been secured and all hostiles wielding weaponry capable of taking out an aircraft would be neutralized, the command would send in reinforcements.

This time, the paratroops would not be using a standard parachute, but a special system designed for urban deployment. The system was what one would call ‘jetpacks’. Indeed, it was a jetpack. A small, rather compact and light jetpack. Not enough to make a trooper fly at will around, but enough to make him land safely. Once his feet on something solid and more or less horizontal, the trooper released the pack and went on with whatever duties he had. The pack, being designed for one use only was not reusable by the enemy. And since it was very, very cheap, such a pack did not really endanger the funds allocated to the TNDF. The side hatches of the dropship opened up, revealing a line of soldiers that immediately, one by one, parted with their transport and dived into the clouds below. The chute was not much different from the one done with a standard parachute, only that the jetpacks left quite a visible heat trace that could be spotted by appropriated equipment. The engines fired off and the soldiers adopted a more or less vertical position in the air, the speed of their fall slowed down.

The enemy down on the roofs was not sleeping. The Legionnaires spotted the parachutists when their were only several dozen meters away from the afore mentioned roofs. Rockets and bullets darted off and some of the members of the 1st Airbourne did not even have the opportunity to land. In the air, the troopers could not do much. One of their hands was busy directing the jetpacks using a control panel, all they could do was take out their handguns with their free hand and return fire. But eventually, they landed and that’s where the real fight began. After all, the White Legion did have some of the best former servicemen. The paratroops secured the roof and sent a flare up into the air to signal that the platform was safe. After that, they burst into the interior of the building. Gunfight in closed spaces is a rather delicate operation and you have to watch where you toss these grenades to avoid any ‘friendly boom-boom’ accidents. Thanks God, Seven Deities or Whatever, all of the casualties that day were caused by enemy fire. Finally, after some rough fighting, the most glorious and absolutely victorious men of the 4th Company, 3rd Parachutist Regiment made it to the 1st Floor of the 4th Level. A squad, led by the commander of the company, exited the building and progressed in the street. Interior Guards and their vehicles were moving in from every direction, crushing the last remnants of the rebels. The building in which the elves took refuge was already sealed off by men in casual armor with the patterns of urban camouflage over it. The commander approached one of the men, now that the battle was more or less over.

- Major Karelin, Fourth Company, Third Parachutist Regiment.

The soldier, who had no insignia so it was impossible to determine his rank, simply pointed at the patch on his left arm.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/kaskad.jpg

It was the Kaskad, still with the old patches saying ‘Military Intelligence’. Now these guys were the ‘Universal Intelligence’, having absorbed the TDI and the TNSD… The Major could only nod.

- Why has this area been locked off?
- Code: MYOB.
- Sorry?
- Mind Your Own Business.

Karelin shook his head and went back to his unit. Who was he, a simple officer in one of the most elite groups of the Taraskovyan army, to inquire into the affairs of the Kaskad? He had other things to attend to, such as making sure that all of his wounded men received appropriate care. He passed a line of White Legion fighters, escorted by Interior Guards to prisoner transports and reentered the building he and his men freed only mere instants ago.

***

Kaskad Report.
Personally to Colonel Voronov.
Top Secret.

- Hypothesis of Target #1 being located in Ekaterinburg proved false.
- Test of ‘Horobr’ Units successful at 87.00%.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/kaskad.jpg
KASKAD: Report IS26.1143

Subject: Radical Military Organization ‘White Legion’

Destinatory: Intelligence Agencies of the Sisgardian Fellowship of Nations ; M.I.S.S.I.O.N. (Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar) ; Intelligence Division (Federation of Sentient Peoples) ; SDF IICD (Libertarian Paradise of Sunset) ; AIVD (Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss)

Class: TOP SECRET, TYPE 1

***

Radical Military Organisation
WHITE LEGION

1. Background.

1.1 Regalia:
1.1.1 Banner:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/ru_bow.gif
Three horizontal stripes: black, gold and white.
1.1.2Coat of Arms:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/wlcoa.gif
In gold shield a black double-headed eagle under three crowns. On chest of the eagle blue shield with a red Russian Orthodox cross.

1.2 Date of Creation:
Unknown ; presumed to be existent a number of decades in secret. The banner, coat of arms and the very name of the organization indicate a deep attachment to the Russian Empire. As such, the banner is the Imperial Standard, the coat of arms is inspired from the one of the Empire and the name indicates the belonging to the monarchist (white) side, as opposed to the communist (red) side (clear reference to the civil war of 1918-1922 Standard Calendar). It is thus possible that the organization, in any of its forms (possibility of evolution from a harmless popular rally to an aggressive military formation) existed either since 1918-1922 Standard Calendar, either before, either was created much later, inspired by the aforementioned events.

1.3 Ethnic Composition:
Mostly Ethnic Russians, as well as a number of Slavic mixes featuring Russian blood. The Organization benefits from an extensive support from the Russian ethnicity (75% of the Federal population), including the military, law enforcement and even certain branches of government.

1.4 Social Composition:
Mostly consists of young Grand Russian nationalists (see 2.). The core of the Organization is believed to consist of both former and active servicemen of the Taraskovyan National Defence Forces, Taraskovyan Department of Intelligence (integrated into Kaskad), Taraskovyan National Security Department (integrated into Kaskad), Taraskovyan Interior Security Department. Great possibility of involvement of highly ranked active military officers of Russian origin.


2. Goals and Ideology:
Primary ideology is the Grand Russian nationalism and its various derivatives. It is believed that the White Legion first existed as an underground party for moderate Russian nationalists. It is unknown why did it adopt a more radical point view, but as of now, the White Legion features a highly developed infrastructure, its own chain of command and armed forces, its own supply and logistics personnel. The goals of the White Legion, as of information known up to now, are as follows:
Overthrow of the current Governement.
Instauration of a Grand Russian Empire on the territory of the Federation.
Instauration of Orthodoxy as Official and National religion.
Elimination of all elements capable of disturbing the process and/or prevent the White Legion from achieving its goals (including: Federal Law Enforcement, Federal Armed Forces, Federal Governement).
Exclusion, marginalization and isolation of all non-Russian ethnicities from active role in society. Possibility of a variety of genocide plans being developed.


3. Means:

3.1 Light Weaponry:
The White Legion is believed to be producing illegally large quantities of standard Taraskovyan weaponry (such as: assault rifles, sniper rifles, handguns, machine guns, etc.)

3.2 Heavy Weaponry:
The White Legion managed to acquire a number of anti-aircraft systems, mortar systems, heavy machine guns, incendiary rocket launchers, rocket propelled grenade launchers, etc. Exact number of heavy weaponry is hard to calculate. Kaskad does not exclude the possibility that highly ranked officers from the TNDF have cooperated with the White Legion in order to provide the organization with the above stated weapons. An investigation into the matter has already begun.

3.3 Ground Vehicles:
Due to ‘certain specifics’ of the Taraskovyan equipment, the White Legion was unable to take control of any heavy vehicles (such as: tanks, MRLS, etc.). It did, however, manage to acquire a certain number of hoverdyne APC’s, light assault hoverdynes and others. It is believed members of the TNDF provided the White Legion with the means to disable the ‘certain specifics’ of the vehicles. A thorough search is being conducted in all Federal territories in order to locate and destroy or recapture any stolen equipment.

3.4 Aircraft:
The White Legion is not known to have any combat aircraft in its possession. Possibility of Army officers allocating aircraft under their command to the White Legion is being studied and means to prevent such an event are being developed.

3.5 Naval Ships:
The White Legion is not known to have any combat naval ships in its possession. Possibility of Navy officers allocating naval ships under their command to the White Legion is being studied and means to prevent such an event are being developed.

3.6 Spacecraft:
The White Legion is not known to have any combat spacecraft in its possession. Possibility of Space Fleet officers allocating space craft under their command to the White Legion is being studied and means to prevent such an event are being developed.

3.7 General level of formation:
Due to the presence of former and active military servicemen in the organization, the White Legion features a high level of combat training and efficiency. The recent events at Ekaterinburg indicate that the White Legion is developing new tactics and strategies to meet their objectives.

3.8 Means of operating:
The White Legion tends to operate covertly, but does not hide from open actions. The combat personnel of the White Legion is organized in small groups of a dozen people that are constantly coordinating their actions in order to achieve maximum battle efficiency. Combat units tend to operate in densely populated areas, rendering any bombardment or involvement of ‘other means’ close to impossible, the only solution being the intervention of forces on the ground.

The Kaskad does not exclude the possibility of White Legion members staying in foreign countries to prepare their operations inside of the Federation. The White Legion could potentially try to provoke tensions between the Taraskovyan Federation and another/other nation(s). As such, the Kaskad would advise all allied/friendly/neutral states to pay extreme attention to all people in their territory belonging to the Russian ethnicity. The Kaskad stands ready for cooperating with allied/friendly/neutral states in order of bringing the members of the illegal and criminal White Legion organization to justice under the Federal Law.

4. Conclusion:
As can be noted, the White Legion is a very developed and powerful organisation that is incrusted deeply into the Taraskovyan society. Although its goals are, for the time being, mostly directed against the current Federal government, the White Legion may become a latent threat to the international community. Should the Federal assets fall into uncontrollable hands, consequences may be dire for all parties involved.

Hereby attached to this report is a compilation of biometric data for 1,571 suspected members of the White Legion, which are accused of (among others): incitement to ethnic and religious hatred, recidivism, murder (including murder of law enforcement personnel), desertion, treason and high treason. Should any of these persons cross the border of a foreign nation, the stated nation is advised to contact the Kaskad.

5. Addendum:*

Included in the Message to SFN members:
The Federal authorities deem that Sisgardia may be the best choice for the White Legion to set up its foreign outposts. As such, the Taraskovyan Federation counts on its SFN allies to provide it with all the support and cooperation it needs.

Included in the Message to MISSION(Menelmacar):
We have reports that a number of Federal aircraft have entered your airspace several weeks ago. The pilots of the stated aircraft are accused of desertion and high treason and are suspected to be members of the aforementioned White Legion. As such, these men are to be tried under the Taraskovyan law. Should you have any information on the possible location of these men, the Kaskad would be most grateful if you shared it with us.
Should the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar have the stated men and/or their equipment/aircraft within any of the areas under its jurisdiction, the Taraskovyan Federation would insist on the necessity to turn the men and their equipment back to the Federal authorities.

Included in the Message to Intelligence Division(FSP):
Possibility of infiltration by the White Legion of the Taraskovyan assets in the Apache Warp Chain. Although the Taraskovyan Federal assets there feature only basic research equipment and craft, should any of the escorts begin aggressive actions towards any of your assets in order to compromise relations between the Taraskovyan Federation and the Federation of Sentient Peoples, the latter is authorized to dispose of the ‘problem’ at will.

Included in the Message to SDF IICD (Sunset):
Possibility of White Legion members operating from certain Martian nations, especially the MIDAS nations, in order to provoke tensions between MIDAS and the Federation. As such, we advise you to treat the problem with all attention it requires. You are authorized to forward the report to other MIDAS nations if you can guarantee that the stated nations are able to keep it secret and not divulge it any further.

Included in the Message to AIVD (Knootoss):
Considering the rather 'free' nature of your society and nation as a whole, the Kaskad deems it highly probable that the White Legion may operate from within the DDR. As such, we advise extreme vigilance and stand ready to provide any assistance in dealing with White Legion members on your soil.


On that, the Kaskad is grateful for your attention and is looking forward to cooperating with its foreign colleagues.

[OOC:
*I think that my explanation was understandable enough, but just in case of...
Every nation will only know in this part only what was sent to it. As such, the Addendum to Menelmacar is sent to Menelmacar and is the only Addendum in the report. As such, Siri knows what was sent to Mission but doesn't know what was sent to FSP and visa versa.

OOC2: I really got to go to sleep now...]

From: AIVD HQ
To: the Kaskad
Subject:confirmation
Status: classified

We have recieved your report in good order and have diverted appropriate resources to monitor this problem. The Algemene Inlichtingen en Veiligheids Dienst will be prepare to assist in dealing with White Legion members in the DDR should they turn up here. So far no unusual activities have been reported in the DDR but such is not unusual considering the low level of monitoring that is usually applied to foreign SFN citizens on our soil.

The data you provided is already being used to scan the records of Taraskovyan refugees who have sought asylum in the Europolis island north of Tarasovka during the civil war. Several of these Taraskovyans have migrated to Knootoss homeland and have not yet returned to their homes.

We will keep you informed of our progress and hope to continue the good working relationship we enjoyed with the TDI.
~Vice-secretary of horizontal inter-intelligence communications.

((Do I find anything?))

Offices of the Ruling Council,
Capital City of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

Ustinov and Voevodov sat by a pile of documents concerning the reconstruction effort in Aphyr, as well as the reform of the armed forces. And, of course, the progress on the fight against the White Legion.
The first two reports were very positive and satisfying. The military was about to return back to its pre-Plague standards and Aphyr's infrastructure was steadily and patiently ressurected. Still will take a lot of time to fully rebuild it, of course, but at least there was some progress.
The White Legion, however, continued to pose problems. Just the last week two high ranked non-Russian military officers were assassinated. A Colonel of polish origins and an elven sub-colonel. Not to mention all the rioting erupting sporadicaly all around the Sisgardian Fiefdoms. A military base was raided, one that had a secret stock of newest infantry weapons. The attack was, hopefully, repelled. Ustinov sat back.

- Well, I guess we can say that we are more or less coping with the situation...

- We do... I just wonder where do they get all the information from?

- Bah, our own military.

- Yes, the purges do not seem to have a great deal of effect.

- Any news from Puchinov?

- No, he is on that favourite new toy of his - Site 'Alpha'. Overseeing the deployment of new modular shipyards, the construction of new ships... Keeping complete comms silence, to keep the thing secret.

- We should visit it one day, you know...

- We will, once we sort that interior mess out. We need to send a team of observers to Europolis. Has the transfer been done already?

- Yes. We said good bye to a certain sum of Taraskovyan Franks. In return, we now have a Windmill theme park with authentic living Knootians in it!

Ustinov smirked.

- Good then. Once this colony island is no longer Knootian, we could consider improving relations with them. After all, they will not have the Doctrine against them.

- I doubt their liberal nature will really approve of our... very existance? Not even to speak of our methods.

- I do not really care whether they approve or not. They seemed to be willing to cooperate on the White Legion issue, though... so who knows?

***

Site 'Alpha',
Somewhere in the Galaxy.

Puchinov walked down the corridors of the new improved Thylacin M2 Class Dreadnaught, fresh from the assembly lines, whispering softly under his breath...

- My precious-s-s-s-s....

The crew members of the ship politely avoided the Ruling Councilor and took other corridors to move around.

The coffee was hot and smelt good, its perfume filling the room as he walked to the couch. He put the cup of coffee on a low table near in front of the couch and sat own, reaching for a miniature computer on the table. He connected himself to the Taraskovyan Press Agency and read the latest headlines.

Several million protest in Vigvar against the outlawing of the People's Initiative and Referendum.

Millions of people took out to the streets of Vigvar after the Ruling Council announced that it would forbid the People's Initiative and Referendum, thus stripping the population off one of its basic rights that had existed for several centuries already. The Capital City itself was sealed off and the riots contained to the Outer Ring, where they degenerated, the police having to intervene using stun weapons. Hundreds of people have been admitted to hospital due to various wounds caused by the stampede, twelve people in critical condition.

Critic has been brewing lately about the Ruling Council’s approach to internal politics and its handling of matters. The Ruling Council has today defended itself…

He did not finish reading the article, but clicked to view the next one, only to see…

Four people dead after blast at a military residence.

A blast, reportedly aimed at eliminating Ist Rank Captain Kharlak Uthk of the Naval Fleet, rocked a military residence in Ekaterinburg, housing dozens of servicemen and their families. The blast killed a family of three that lived in an apartment adjacent to that of Captain Uthk – Lieutenant Vasily Kerdashov of the Marine Infantry, his wife Elena and daughter Marina. Captain Uthk died on the road to hospital.

The military is investigating the matter, but reports already indicate that the White Legion is responsible for the attack.

He shook his head and clicked to view the next headline.

Instability frightens tourists.

The Federal Bureau for Tourism, Sport and Entertainment reports that the security instability in the Federal metropoly is damaging the tourist industry. Already tourism is down by 56% compared to last year…

He switched the computer off, closed his eyes and lay himself on the couch, trying not to think.

It was just another day in the Federation…

***

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Sovereign Territory of the Order of Seven Deities.

Everything was dark, not a single light shone through the shadows. There were no feelings, no pain, no joy. There were only seven voices, seven voices that seemed to be everywhere at the same time, their words resonating. They spoke. At least, only now did they speak, before, there were no words. Just hate and lust and anger. But then everything ceased and words appeared. They spoke and their dialogue seemed to drag on forever, interrupted by outbursts of hate and anger, calmed by love and patience, until finally silence befell, interrupted by nothing. A second of silence and then there was light, blinding, burning light, then there was pain, pain everywhere, all over the body and then there was a voice. His voice…

***

Stairs down. Corridor. Stairs up. Corridor. Hall. Stairs down. Hall. Corridor. Corridor. Stairs up. Two Paladins of Zynthris on duty. She ran into them without even noticing, hitting their thick armor with full blow of her fragile young body. A soldier grabbed her and shook her lightly, as if waking her up.

- What is the matter?
- The Prelate! The Prelate! I need to see the Prelate!

The soldier stretched his arm, indicating the door behind him.

- He is in his study, of course. Why do you want to see… Hey!

The young apprentice and follower of Kethala slipped out of the soldier’s arms and hurled upon the door, vanishing in the study. The soldiers rushed after her only to hear her screaming.

- He has awoken! He has awoken! Come!

The High Templar of Zynthris, who is also the Prelate of the Order, rushed out of the room, followed by the young apprentice, leaving the two Paladins in total stupor…

Vigvar Daily

Alexander Guard Honourary Regiment still refuses to allow the Winter Palace to be occupied by the Federal authority.

The last stronghold of the Grand Ducal rule, the residence and seat of power of the Dynasty, still refuses to give in to the Ruling Council three years after the Plague. The Alexander Guard, which served as personal protection of the Grand Dukes and their family, continues to reject the Ruling Council’s authority over it and keeps on defying the Federal siege of the Palace. It would appear that many young men found a way to pass through the ring of security forces circling the complex and to enroll into the Palace Guard Academy, thus bringing new reinforcements to the Regiment.

Throughout the past few years, the Winter Palace has proven to be a fully autonomous unit, capable of providing food and necessities to its small population of Guards and nostalgic staff. The Federal authorities still exclude any assault upon the Palace, stating that “the Winter Palace is not a priority installation”. Others, however, speculate that the reluctance to storm the palace can be explained by several factors. The first factor is, of course, the military one. The Alexander Guard is a fully independent combat unit that has its own vehicles and aircraft and that is more than capable of both withstanding an assault and even lead an assault itself. The second factor is the ‘nostalgia’ that dwells within the hearts of many Taraskovyan citizens and that can burst out of the last relics of the Grand Duchy were to be brutally eliminated.

[…]

***

Somewhere in Cardinian mountains,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

He exited the craft, following a man in robes that was leading the way. Everything around was dark suggesting they were in a cave. In fact, not a single ray of light existed in this darkness and everything was just black and grey. Yes, even in complete darkness he could distinguish everything within meters around him. Obviously, his sight was not as good as the one of his guide and so he followed the man in the robes.

He knew everything about this place. The famous ‘Hold’ fortress, a labyrinth of tunnels and caves, crafted into halls and cells, that stretched through several peaks of the numerous Cardinian ranges. This fortress was crafted thousands of years ago, in times that have since long vanished even from the official history books. In times when the Gods were powerful and the Taraskath were their right hand, imposing the will of the Gods with fire and sword. The ‘Hold’ was intended as a secret detention place, hidden from the inquisitive gaze of the outside world. For thousands of years the enemies of the Grand Dukes were submitted to the most cruelest and perverse of tortures by the Wardens, not often in the intent of gathering information, but just to satisfy the lust to see your opponents suffer. For thousands of years the Wardens formed a ‘people’ of their own, isolated from the rest of the world, slowly losing the last remains of kindness and compassion.

It was, thus, no wonder the Wardens did not refuse to serve the Ruling Council. After all, a victim is a victim, whatever his political or other allegiance. And now one of the Wardens was guiding the two guests through the endless labyrinths of tunnels. None of his colleagues could be spotted anywhere, the deafening silence of the place only interrupted by the echo of their foot steps. Finally, the Warden stopped in front of a cell door and activated a mechanism, making the massive block of steel slide away gracefully and swiftly.

The man in the robes remained outside as his companion stepped into the cell. The footsteps woke up the ‘inhabitant’ of the cell, a creature that once was a man in full strength and now was nothing but a thin pile of bones that somehow still managed to live. The door of the cell slid closed yet again and silence befell on the room, the prisoner staring into the complete void in front of him, stretching his arms and trying to catch the air, clearly not having the same possibility to see in the dark as the visitor did. The visitor bit his lip as a variety of emotions filled him, ranging from rage to pity, directed at numerous people at the same time. He clenched his fists as he let out a sigh. The pile of bones immediately directed his empty gaze towards him.

“Who is it? Who? Speak, you coward! Speak!”

“It is me, Sanya…”

The prisoner froze for a moment as if trying to recognize that voice. And then, he remembered…

“Your Highness!” – he tried to yell, but only managing to push forward a whisper – “But you were… you are…”

“The realms of Sathala are not yet ready to welcome me, my dear Alexander. I came back to claim what is mine.”

“You returned… how long has it been?”

“Years.”

“Where have you been?”

“I do not know myself. Neither life nor death, something else…”

“The Neitherworld…”

Both men remained silent for a moment, Mikhail deciding to finally break the silence.

“How did they manage to?”

“The traitors? Your handling of Aphyr was not exactly the most popular one, Your Highness. And with your announced death, all they had to do was to impose themselves. And they managed to so perfectly well…”

“The TDI archives?”

“Hidden safely, Your Highness…” – the prisoner chuckled – “They are in the ‘Super Secret Hiding Place’, if you remember what it is.”

“Oh, yes, I remember,” – Mikhail said as he smiled – “and what about Vetha? I did not yet have the time to inquire into her fate.”

“Oh, I’ve placed her under Siri’s wing.”

“You did what?”

“Worry not, I have dispatched the High Coordinator to assist her.”

“Oh, by the gods… poor Vethara…”

“Poor? I believe she is now yet again the pure killing machine she was before!”

Both men grinned and shook their heads.

“Well, if she had Kethar with her, I guess I do not have to worry about my sister getting brainwashed by foreign pointy eared. At any rate, it is time for you to see the light of the sun yet again, for I did not return to sit passively. It is time I reclaimed what is mine and made the traitors pay…”

Sineglaziev leaned against the wall of his cell and shook his head, not capable of seeing the questioning look on Mikhail’s face.

“I am sorry, Your Highness, but I cannot. I am only a shadow of myself… I… I will be of no use, Your Highness, they have taken everything from me. All that is left for them to take is my life. And I do not wish to give it to them, Mikhail. I… I do not even have the strength to kill myself… I… I ask for mercy. In the name of my loyalty to your family, in the name of our friendship... release me…”

Mikhail shook his head slightly as he made a step towards his friend, his right hand already wielding a dagger, his left hand seizing the chin of the prisoner and raising it just as the dagger slashed through the neck, cutting the vital arteries and killing the former Head of the Taraskovyan Department of Intelligence on the spot. Mikhail swept the blood off the blade as he directed himself out to meet his companion.

“Your Most Holiness, I have no other business here.”

The Prelate of the Order only nodded as he gave the Warden the sign to lead them out of the fortress.

City of Vigvar Outer Ring,
Great Fiefdom of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

На спящий город опускается туман,
Шалят ветра по подворотням и дворам,
А нам все это не впервой,
А нам доверено судьбой
Оберегать на здешних улицах покой.

The music was beating loudly into his ears as he whistled along to the tune, struggling not to go off into a dance. The wind was blowing violently atop the roof of the pillar-building, which was of no real wonder at a kilometer and a half or so height. His gaze was fixed off into some distance, a pillar-building far away, hidden by the mist of the early morning. A police UPAC flew over him, directing itself into the same direction the young man was looking. He smiled as he drew out a detonator just as the song was going off into a chorus.

Да! – he sang joyfully along with the singer as he pushed a button – А пожелай ты им ни пуха, ни пера!

Far away, a blinding flash of light erupted from the pillar-building…

***

Several days earlier.

City of Vigvar Outer Ring,
Great Fiefdom of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

- Quadrant Four G, Sector A – Clear.

The commander of the assault squad reported as his men eliminated the last remnants of resistance in the room now covered with corpses in combat armor. Both the government forces and the “outlaws” were using the same equipment, only the patches were different, the legionnaires proudly bearing their emblem ( http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/BLpatch1.jpg). Operation ‘Witch Hunt’ has been going on for several days already, Federal forces raiding known White Legion strongholds within Vigvar. Major urban combats erupted on periodic basis as the concentration of White Legion forces in the direct vicinity of the capital proved to be greater than what the Kaskad estimated.

- Understood, Squad Gamma Eleven. Proceed to Sector F, Squads Gamma Seven, Eight and Ten have encountered an important resistance.

And so the men moved out to participate in even more bloodshed. And to say that only a few days ago Vigvar was an oasis of peace in a troubled nation. But then, somebody began burning down shops and various other installations owned by ethnic Russians. Witness accounts pointed to a radical elven organization, the Valinorhíni (the Children of Valinor), that wanted revenge against the White Legion for the Ekaterinburg events and tried to lure it out into an open confrontation. And the White Legion did come out. In a matter of hours, a hundred suspected members of the Valinorhíni as well as their families were murdered. The police attempted to stop the bloodshed but only fell under fire from both sides and had to answer fire, the city quickly becoming one giant battlefield to the point that the military got involved. By that time, the White Legion entered a murderous rage and began a systematic ethnic cleansing inside of the very vicinity of the capital. The bridges leading to the old city have been sealed off. Actually, the entire Vigvar Plateau has been sealed off from the Outer Ring.

On the second day of fighting, the Valinorhíni appealed to the Federal authorities for protection in exchange of disarmament on their side. The Legion eased its offensive, its assets clearly outstretched, and began reorganizing, which gave the Federal authorities the time to evacuate most of the elven population of the Outer Ring into several pillar-buildings inside of the Ring, heavily defended by the military. However, that did not make anyone safe, for the White Legion had extensive contacts. And quite some experience at infiltration operations…

***

Present Day.

City of Vigvar Outer Ring,
Great Fiefdom of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

Да! – he sang to the second line of the chorus as he pressed an other button, an other flash of light erupting in the far. - Пусть не по правилам игра!
Да! – and yet again he pressed the button, the tremendous and deafening sounds of the huge explosions now reaching his ears - И если завтра будет круче, чем вчера:
«Прорвемся», - ответят Опера.
Прорвемся, Опера!

Clouds of dust and smoke filled the horizon, hiding a huge portion of the city. From everywhere police and military aircraft began converging to the site as the young man smiled and turned to face a young woman standing all this time by his side with a video camera.

- Did you film it all?
- Yes. I believe we should leave now.
- Ladies first.

The two laughed joyfully as they abandoned their position.

***

Several Hours Later.

City of Vigvar Outer Ring,
Great Fiefdom of Vigvar,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

The three Ruling Councilors, all clad into military combat armor, walked in the direction of the epicenter of the explosions. The dust began to fall on the floor, the roads now covered with a thick layer of it. Walking around without a protective suit and a respirator was dangerous. The scene was horrible to view – destruction and chaos everywhere. The shock wave of the explosions was so powerful and it blew aircraft out of the sky like mere feathers and threw them on the floor against overturned APC’s and tanks. Remains of what once were living beings were scattered everywhere. Bodies of soldiers torn into two, an arm lying in the dust, grey corpses being dragged away by the rescuers, the wounded being attended to. Firefighters were busy extinguishing flames that erupted in the pillars neighbouring the epicenter. Such was the desolation on the fourth, the top level of the Ring. But what was going on within lower levels? One could only imagine.

- They have placed explosive inside of the pillars in the points where they connect to the transportation levels. There were charges on all four levels to guarantee maximum efficiency.

Such were the words of the Kaskad colonel that was explaining the situation to the Ruling Councilors via the communication devices of their helmets. All around them were numerous Kaskad officers and troops, as well as the police, the army, the rescue and medical teams. The entire area was bustling with activity.

- We have already opened several inquiries, but I am myself sure that these were explosives that are in use with the TNDF. Just look what these things did.

The man stretched his arm into the direction of the emptiness where tall skyscrapers once stood. The explosion was indeed so powerful that the 100 meters thick infra-layer composing the Fourth Level was greatly deformed and literally rolled over itself. An other man in combat armor approached the group, the Kaskad Colonel giving him a brief nod and going off. Voevodov shook his head as he addressed the newcomer.

- How are we to explain this, Voronov?
- A terrorist act, Sire. I fail to see anything else.
- What are the estimated casualties? - Puchinov asked.
- Fifty thousand so far, but the counting still goes on and the number increases by a dozen souls per second. So I let you imagine, Sire.

Ustinov shook his head as he looked around.

- This will not be good PR for us. I think we should declare a State of Emergency across the nation.
- And provoke even more tensions?
- Gentlemen, I think you do not understand. We have, what, fifty million elves under our responsibility? What happens if they… call in for foreign support?
- This would upset two and a half billion Russians, Sire, - Voronov sighed, - besides our military is more than capable of handling any ‘foreign support’.
- Heh. My boys will handle anythi-

Puchinov did not yet end his phrase when one of the Kaskad soldiers around them suddenly pointed his assault rifle at the Ruling Council and opened fire. The Leib-Admiral fell on the ground as the shooter was gunned down by other soldiers. Falling to the ground, he attempted to shoot at Voronov but missed. Everything happened in less than a couple of seconds…

***

Taraskovyan Press Agency

Ruling Councilor shot dead.

VIGVAR, TNP - The Ruling Councilor Konstantin Puchinov was shot dead today during inspection of the blast site in Vigvar’s Outer Ring. The other Ruling Councilors were not wounded. The killer, that has also been shot dead by the security, was a Kaskad officer always seen as loyal and trustworthy by his superiors.

Inquiries have already been opened and the Kaskad is taking steps to track down possible moles within its ranks.

The TNDF and the TSF have been ordered to highest state of alert.

(from De Volkskrant)

TERROR STRIKES VIGVAR AFTER UNREST

(Continued from page one) – Prime Minister Galadriël Táralóm nos Círdan, while visiting the protectorate of Ale-Yarok to chair a meeting of the Knootian Federation leaders, expressed her outrage and assured Tarasovka of Knootoss's support and sympathy. "Knootoss is deeply upset to learn of the monstrous attack that has just struck the City of Vigvar.”

"I want to express to you my deep condolences and my unlimited solidarity to you and the Taraskovyan people. Our sympathy goes to the victims and their relatives of Ruling Councilor Konstantin Puchinov, and the families of the countless other victims" she said,

Calling the attacks a threat to peace and freedom everywhere, minister of Foreign Affairs and Defence Hans van Mierlo said, "We will not let these values be destroyed – in Sisgardia, Knootoss, Tanah Burung or anywhere in the world"

The joint meeting of leaders in Ale-Yarok concluded their meeting declaring tomorrow a "day of mourning" in all member states. Flags on government buildings in Knootoss, Colombia, Ale-Yarok and Nieuw Rotterdam will be flown half-mast and citizens all over the Knootian Federation were called upon to observe a minute of silence tomorrow at noon. The ministers and heads of state said in the same statement that "There will be no safe haven for terrorists and their sponsors. Knootoss will work closely with the Federal authorities of Tarasovka, the Kaskad and all other partners to combat international terrorism." The commander of the Europolis military base also offered any logistical assistance he could give, an offer later backed up by numerous government organisations in the DDR itself. It seems, however, that Knootoss cannot do much more at this time then help to cremate the dead.

Somewhere in the Metropoly.

The ‘conference room’ was a small locale, somewhere in the underground levels of one of the Taraskovyan gigantic cities. Maybe it was not the most luxurious place in the Galaxy, but at least it was sure that nothing nor no one could know what was happening there without the consent of the ones in the room itself. The attendants were few. In one of them a person versed in the top-secret Kaskad personalities would immediately recognize Leib-Count Peter Voronov, the highly secretive head of the Kaskad. He was wearing a casual civilian outfit, matching those of his several interlocutors who sat by the same round wooden table, looking through various dossiers.

- Erúvë Elen, House of Meldon, Noldor origins, single, - one of the men said as he read a Kaskad file, - finished this, studied there, worked over there…

He sighed as he looked at the picture of an elven female ( http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/CoVLeader.jpg ) and then went on reading the file, finally laying it aside.

- So this is our Valinor-thing Big Bad Guru, Gospodin? - one of the men asked.
- Yes, - Voronov nodded, - she is your next target.
- But, Gospodin, shouldn’t we eliminate the Ruling Council right now, while we still have the upper hand? - an other person present inquired.
- What upper hand? I do not control every single police officer out there in the streets, nor do I control every single Kaskad operative or military serviceman. And those same ‘uncontrollable’ assets will soon be at your pursuit. No, the assassination of Puchinov was a success and I congratulate you on that occasion. However, we must now regroup our forces and avoid losing ressources in vain.
- Your orders, Gospodin?
- Dedicate some effort to tracking the elf down. Track down the highest hierarchs of their little group. Once that done, eliminate them. They are not a great threat at the moment, but have the potential of becoming it once the foreign pointy eared filth becomes hysterical. In the meanwhile, pull all combat operatives out of Vigvar and scale down activities for the time being. Offer some support to hooligans that want to trash down elven shops, of course, but do not dedicate any Legion assets to minor tasks.
- Of course, Gospodin.
- Yes, Gospodin. Can we count on the Kaskad being blind and deaf?
- To a limited extent, yes. I am now myself under watchful gaze of the two surviving Ruling Councilors so I will not be able to extend my influence as much as before. But that is only temporary.

All of the persons present at the meeting stood up and saluted each other in a military fashion, Voronov nodding and adding the traditional: “Our cause is noble, victory will be ours.”

[OOC: An other post forthcoming...]

From: Trouw

Instability likely to endure in Tarasovka

VIGVAR – The extreme instability in Tarasovka is continuing on without any outlook of improvement. Almost on a daily, the newspapers are shaken by yet new reports of deaths, terror attacks by the White Legion and ethnic and racial violence between Elves and nationalist Slavs. The potential consequences of this instability are devastating. The tourism industry is paralysed already and other industries are also sure to be affected if this endures. And while Prime Minister nos Círdan and other leaders have expressed their support and sympathy, nothing is being done by the international community to stem the tide of domestic violence in the troubled Sisgardian nation.

The conflict in Aphyr (known as the 'Plague' in Tarasovka) featured the extensive use of weapons of mass destruction (killing around 500 million people) and wiped out the nations traditional elite from the political map. These developments have shaken the foundations upon which the society was built. Tarasovka is an old nation, with records going back 45.000 years, and traditions has always been vital to the continued survival of the nation in a culture that is built upon some inherent contradictions, and which has had numerous internal conflicts in its history. In such a nation, the institutions of the Duchy were the unifying factor.

The new Ruling Council on the other hand has made it clear that they wish to burn their bridges and leave the old traditions behind, decrying them as ‘useless bureaucracy’ and ‘feudal chains’. While the Grand Duchy certainly had its inefficiencies (including a notable democratic gap) the system did work in keeping the nation reasonably under control. The Ruling Council has failed to recognise the influence deeply rooted cultural values have on stability and national unity. Instead of a much-needed and ambitious programme to heal the wounded nation and bring it democracy, stability and prosperity the Ruling Council has acted only in its own self-interest, replacing the old plutocracy by a new one without the stability and unity the old plutocracy provided. For example, the Ruling Council has dissolved the Council of Duchy, and forbade the People's Initiative and Referendum (an old tradition). This move, which was intentioned to reinforce their power, actually caused millions to protest and has done much to undermine the Ruling Councils attempts to oppose a new and stable order, instead strengthening the resistance against it.

But instead of a united resistance against the failing military junta these moves have opened up the hidden vault lines in Taraskovyans society. In this environment of failing governance and absent unity, it is every group for himself. Open combats has erupted erupt in cities like Ekaterinburg and Vigvar between the White Legion, Elvish militias and Forces loyal to the Ruling Council. The main opposition to the government comes from those who miss the old tradition the most. The support of ethnic Slavic peoples, who dominate the Federal population, is clearly not been gained by the Ruling Council. The support of this Slavic population is the key to understanding the ‘soul’ of the nation, as well as the key to controlling it..Other groups, fearful of this development, have also taken up arms. In such an environment radical organisations such as the White Legion and Elvish militias can gain membership, even legitimacy.

What is key now, is that a solution is found that will provide stability. The Ruling Council has made itself impossible and cannot last long without the support of any major segment of the population. With the distrust of the Slavic peoples, they can only seek to find a solution to either regain that support through reform of face being toppled when the sections of the army still loyal to them realise that they are fighting a losing battle. If this is not done, they risk that radical organisations like the White Legion gain enough power to gain control. White Legion control over the nation would be disastrous for the other minorities in the nation, and could also spell doom for Knootian-Taraskovyan relations.

However, not all of the Slavic peoples are turning to the White Legion just yet. Some others have turned to the old institutions, such as the Alexander Guard Honourary Regiment which still occupies the Winter Palace in defiance of Federal authorities. This is but an example of the ‘nostalgia’ that these citizens have, a longing for the traditions and stability of the Grand Ducal past which only finds a bad expression of frustration in White Legion ultranationalism. Key questions are what these moderate Taraskovyans will do, and whether the Ruling Council will be bold enough to enact real change. Galadriël, it seems, can only hope for a miracle.

A Castle Courtyard,
Taurenor.

Thunder rumbled in the distance of the night sky as thick heavy droplets fell onto a cobblestone courtyard, barely illuminated by torches on the walls. Their flames fighting against the water to stay alight. One man walks out onto the courtyard, carrying a torch in his hand. The rain hitting his thick cloak that obscures his face. He walks out onto the center of the courtyard and stands waiting as the rain continues to pour from the heavens on this lonely soul.

Another soul walks out onto the courtyard, not carrying a torch himself, he too wears a thick cloak that obscures his face and protects him from the heavy rainfall. He walks to the other man and stands beside him, both men looking forward, not even giving each other a glance. They seemingly stand still for a few minutes until both figures turn around and walk back from whence they came.

***

Palace study,
Two weeks later

“Come in.” Taurevanimë said from her desk and pushed aside some papers. In walked a tall elf.
“Milady I came to inform you that someone or a group is financing the new elvish political movements in Tarasovka.”
“This was so important that it could interupt my work?” Taurevanimë said.
“Sorry milady, Mundon thought it might interest you.”
“I do not care how one spends his or her money. And it seems that our kin would bennifit from this. You are dismissed.”

The elf nods and exits the room while Taurevanimë goes back to her work.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Popular Musical Radio Station
Recently bought by the (Knootian) Independent Radio Group
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

The last notes of ‘Planet Hell’ by Nightwish plays on the radio as a young Taraskovyan tunes in. A happy jingle plays: “this is Uuuuuuuuuutrooooooo”

“You’re listening to Utro – the most popular youth station in the Federation. Cuz we say so!

And its time for a Neeeews-fluuuusshh”

Sounds of a flushing toilet are aired, vaguely reminiscent of toilet-flushing sound from a very similar Knootian radio show, should the young Taraskovyan know it. .

”Did you ever notice how you only see the police nowadays if something Really Really Bad happens, and *when* you see them they totally swarm the place?

The National Institute of Social Politics confirmed today that this kind of thing doesn’t work and – surprise - that it pisses people off. With the police operating like dark blue swarms of very angry and frustrated bees that *only* go after the flowers that have all the honey already sucked out of, nobody is ever caught. Unless you are a bankrobber and you hang around a bit because you happen to *like* the idea of being captured and rudely interrogated of course.

*sounds of something being beaten with sticks – a moanish scream of a man*

But seriously folks, how many of our bankrobbers are masochistic Knootians? The study suggested that *either* we try to make our criminals like pain more, *or* the police should operate like they did in the Grand Duchy days when the angry blue bees actually did get to the honey because they had a really eager Queen bee to look after them.

Enough talking, lets have some music already! I give you… on the high grass -- Po Visokoy Trave!”

The music begins to play.

Citizen patrols organised in Amal as Ruling Council gets hissed at.

Amal, a city on the shores of the Sea of Million Tears, one of the oldest historic and cultural centres of the Federation, is now home to an unprecedented scene. The deployment of local regular police officers to other parts of the Metropoly reduced dramatically the number of patrolmen out in the streets. The Old City of Amal, an oasis of traditions in a sea of high-tech industrialisation, became victim, along with a bit every other ‘peaceful’ city, to an alarmingly rising crime rate. To counter this dangerous spread, the inhabitants of the Old City have organised their own patrols to assist the policemen out in the streets. And as one walks the Namellar Street in the middle of the evening he is met by patrols consisting of one policemen and half a dozen of local men. The nobility and common folk mixed together for the experiment that has proved quite successful and is now planned to be forwarded in the Outer Ring of Amal.

Leib-Count Da’lar Kentudith, Lord* of Amal, had this to say when questioned on the subject: “Of course I support this initiative by my fellow citizens! What else is there to be done? All of my regulars are in Vigvar, Ekaterinburg or Zynthris knows where and the Council did not even deign to send in any of our glorious army men for reasons of us being a peaceful city. Yes, it is very smart to take away our legal enforcement so that the White Legion and other lunatic goons flood the security void. Thank the Deities they at least left the local SIE unit and my cadets alone! So I give my full support to my fellow citizens and have ordered the municipal authorities to work with them on this initiative.” When questioned on whether he risked being arrested for his outright criticism of the Ruling Council’s security policy, His Lordship only shrugged and sighed: “I doubt we have enough cells not only for me but for everybody.”

It would indeed appear that the Ruling Council’s policy of reinforcing the ‘hot spots’ with available assets taken from the ‘peaceful spots’ back lashed against the authorities. However, as Vitaly Podushkin, one of the organisers of the citizen patrols, said: “Saving the lives of those drowning is the task of those same drowning. Our government has clearly adopted a military approach to a situation that requires a civilian reasoning.” Questioned on how legal was the participation of civilians in the law enforcement, the Kuns** answered: “Well, our task is the one of helping the police officers who are doing their best in keeping the situation under control. We are there to help neutralize criminals while the officer takes care of the administrative and legal fuss.” The man did no comment concerning the possibility of use of weapons by the civilian patrolmen, but assured that “our men know very well how to defend themselves.”

The Amali experiment has the potential of expanding not only to the rest of the Fiefdom, but also to other Fiefdoms as Lords of various municipalities have already stated that they will support any such initiative coming from their citizens.



Old Past or New Future?

[…] It would thus appear that the Federation cannot remain in its current state for much longer. Many fear that should the White Legion come to power, the consequences for the Taraskovyan society would be simply disastrous. As such, even if the White Legion still enjoys broad popular support, its campaign, that is getting more and more violent by the day with the Vigvar Bombings being the latest and most bloodiest in a chain of continued terror, is making many people wonder about the prospects of the future. Moreover, one of the thesis of the White Legion in its campaign against the elves has proven wrong so far. Indeed, a feared invasion by a foreign elven power did not happen and there is no information as to a wide involvement of elven nations into the ongoing struggle within the Federation. It would thus appear that the fifty million Taraskovyan elves are not a priority for foreign governments. The image of the White Legion as ‘saviour’ of the Taraskovyan state against both a “corrupt regime” and “power hungry foreigners” is slowly collapsing even in the most xenophobic circles of the already quite xenophobic Taraskovyan society. Some are already suggesting that the White Legion is in fact an enemy of the Taraskovyan people for it is killing Taraskovyan citizens who have done nothing wrong and, most important, who have never requested any foreign intervention into their struggle.

As such, even if the White Legion does come to power, it’s reign may have to face quite an opposition from moderate circles of the society. However, the potential ‘mess’ that the nationalist organisation may cause within these years is simply tremendous. As such, many speak of various alternatives to the Ruling Council that would exclude any new totalitarian leadership. A small amount of the Taraskovyan population is agreeing that holding free elections and turn their nation into a democratic republic may be the only exit out of the vicious circle. These forerunners are, however, a minority and largely outnumbered by conservative circles that are tied to the ancestral traditions. However, these conservatives are faced with a cruel dilemma – what next? Indeed, they do not have any suitable leader to offer. Archduchess Vethara, the only survivor of the Ruling Dynasty, is hiding in Menelmacar ever since the Ruling Council came to power. Many suggest that the absence of news as of the Archduchess’es fate can be explained by the latter hiding from the Kaskad and its assassins. This hiding, however, does not play in favour of the young woman for it portrays her as a ‘coward’ in the eyes of a traditionally militarist society. Moreover, the fact that she is hiding in foreign lands does not portray her as a true patriot in the eyes of the xenophobic Taraskovyan society.

It would thus appear that everybody is a political dead end with no light at the end of the tunnel. Moreover, how can one be sure that should there be a light it would not be a freight train coming his way?

OOC:

* A ‘Lord’ is an elected Mayor of a municipality.
** A lower nobility title.

Secret Valinorhíni Hideout,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

The room was warm, with a fire burning happily in the corner. New Year was nearing and even despite the current situation the nation was preparing the celebrate the coming of a new year, of a new hope for peace and stability. The Catholics and Protestants were already done with celebrating Christmas, the Orthodox were only preparing to do so, but everybody was getting ready for New Year. A decorated tree stood in the corner, lights of various colours sparkling joyfully.

The room comprised cosy, family furniture. Nothing overly expensive, especially not the old wooden table by which sat several people.

- Héra? What are your thoughts on the matter.
- My thoughts are grim, Meldë. We have the Legion sticking to us like bees to honey…
- Or like flies to shit, - one of the people sitting by the table quickly added, provoking a joyful laughter from all present. Erúvë smiled and shook her head:
- I see the New Year spirit is already catching up on you, Nosta. At any rate, the Legion is out in force looking for us, the police are completely paralysed and the army has proven its inefficiency. We can only count on our selves, my friends.
- But, Héra, maybe we should contact our kindred abroad?
- And prove to the Legion and to everybody that we are traitors? And have every single non-elven Taraskovyan sticking to us like… flies to shit?
- But…
- There are no buts! We are alone and can only count on ourselves, pending that the nation wakes up from its murderous folly. Well, no, we are not alone… Calinë, any news from our benefactor?
- Euh… Héra, I thought Ambastur was the liaison.
- What, me again? Yes, always blame me! I am guilty for everything!
- Hey, I never said that, now…
- Oh, yes you said that! And I am growing tired of your whining and…
- Ambastur!! Calinë!! Cut it out and save your energy for the Legion!
- Yes, Héra.
- Meldë, who is our liaison with Blagodetel?
- I am, Héra.
- Then why didn’t you speak before?
- Because it amuses me to see those two argue.

Ambastur stood up in his chair as Calinë erupted into a description of the entire female line of Meldë’s ancestors and their interactions with animals of various species. Nosta stood up in order to prevent an outbreak of violence while Erúvë slammed her hand on the table (the latter landing on the edge of a plate full of salad, sending it flying straight into Meldë’s face), making everybody erupt into laughter. Erúvë took a deep breath, calming down and turned towards the Salad-faced one.

- All right, Meldë, contact Blagodetel and tell him we desire to discuss matters with him. The Orthodox Christmas is approaching and we have no idea how the Legion will act during the next few days.
- Yes, Héra, it shall be done.


***


To: Blagodetel*
From: Siroty**
Subject: Thank you for everything.

Dear Blagodetel,

We write to tell you that your gifts have lightened up our grim existence of poor abandoned orphans. We are eternally grateful for everything that you have done to us and would like to thank you in person should you accept.

Truly yours,
Siroty

P.S. We would like to talk about New Year, too.

[OOC:

*Blagodetel(noun, Russian): benefactor, good doer
**Siroty(noun, Russian): orphans ]

To: Siroty
From: Blagodetel

Dear Siroty,

It pleases me greatly to hear my gifts have lightened your days. And I will continue giving gifts.
However I am sorry that I can not meet you in person yet, as I deem the time is not right. Therefor I shall send an envoy to speak in place and he shall anwser all your questions.

Yours, Blagodetel

ooc: Must add characters beside quote or it won't post.

TNW Breaking News.

The same old tune plays to the same old intro movie as the scheduled program (five episodes of ‘Pinky and the Brain (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v77/Namellar/pinky.jpg)’) is halted to give place to a special report. A young woman appears, sitting behind the desk in a studio, in the good old presenter style, beginning to speak as soon as the music fades away.

“Greetings, I am Marina Mnogogovorlivova and this is the Taraskovyan News Wire. The press-secretary of the Federal Ministry of Interior Affairs has issues a statement in which he declared that the Ministry received a video in which representatives of the White Legion have declared a unilateral ceasefire. The White Legion, supposedly, obligates itself to halt any aggressive activities for the period of Christmas holidays, but warns that any attempt by the authorities to profit from the situation will be met with ‘due force’.

This statement has been just confirmed by the Minister of Interior Affairs himself, by the Spokesman of the Ruling Council and by the press-secretary of the Kaskad. The authorities deem that the intentions of the White Legion are serious, but still call on all citizens to take extreme care during the upcoming Christmas celebrations.

This is all we have on the event so far, we will keep you updated as we receive further details.

Thank you for your attention and Merry Christmas!”

The scheduled program dashed back on the network as the smiling face of the woman faded away.

Secret Valinorhíni Hideout,
Federal Sisgardian Fiefdoms,
Sisgardia.

The room was in plunged into partial shadows, the only source of light being a lamp in a corner of it. There were no windows, the furniture was not overly exquisite. A table with several soft and cosy armchairs around. There were only two people in the room, one of them was a woman in whom one could recognize Erúvë Elen, leader of the Valinorhíni. The second one was a man of whom none knew a lot. Erúvë smiled to the man, nodding slightly as she spoke. “It is an honour to finally meet you in person… euh…”

“I am Ehtemo Nossл Ostolуkл, but I hope you wouldn't tell that to many people.” He says and make a half bow.

“Of course not, you have my word. We value the support you have given us greatly.” She said as she invited him to sit behind the table, on which were some fruits and wine. “As you have seen, the White Legion is on the rampage and the government is too weak. We must fend for our own selves… which is not always easy.”

“That is true.” He said and sat down, tasting some of the wine and smiling. “This is a good wine, but you didn't invite me for wine tasting.”

“Of course not.” She shook her head and sighed. “We have the money and we can acquire the weapons. We have the expertise, for a number of us served in the armed forces before. However… we are blind.” She looked around the room pensively and then looked back at her guest. “If it is no secret, how great is your influence among the Taurenori security authorities?”

“I have some influence.” Ehtemo said. “It isn't great, but it is expanding as more people grow ambitious.” He added. “What would you like to aquire?”

“Information, of course.” She smiled. “It is obvious that the White Legion has an enormous influence over the Kaskad. We do not, however, know how deep it goes. As such, we would be thankful of any information relevant to this issue.”

“I think I can influence the intelligence devision to divert some funds and personell to see how deep their influence is.” He smiled. “I think we'll also be able to get the names of some key personell of the Kaskad. But that will take time.”

She nodded and smiled. It would seem the tides were turning finally… “We would be eternally grateful for the information. We are trying to use our own contacts to find out the leadership of the White Legion, but so far we have only been able to identify some regional commanders that do not have any great importance.”

“But knowing the key Kaskad figures would help us greatly, for we are unable to act against people we do not even know. And as of the time…” She said pensively. “It depends on how active the Legion is. We had some time to breathe during this ceasefire, but I fear that now that the religious holidays have ended, we can brace ourselves to renewed attacks.”

“I have confidence in you, that you will be able to withstand their attacks.” He said and thought for a moment. “Is there anything else?”

She shook her head and smiled. “No, I believe that is all. We can provide for the rest. Should your men or the Taurenori agencies need any support around here, we are always ready to assist, of course.”

“Excellent.” He commented and finished his wine. “I think I'll go view the city now. I wouldn't want to arouse any suspicion at the other intelligence agencies.” He said and stood up before bowing to his hostess. Erúvë stood up herself and bowed to her guest in return. “My men will guide you out. And you should absolutely visit the National Military Museum, it is the pride of Ekaterinburg.” She said with a smile, as her guest was leaving “Thank you, I'll remember to do that.” Were the last words of her guest before he vanished away from the room.

Excerpt from the Vigvar Daily


Ceasefire ends in bloodshed.

A series of attacks claimed by the White Legion shook the nation and claimed the lives of twelve people yesterday, effectively putting an end to its unilateral ceasefire, as the Ruling Council promised to ‘reinforce security’. The attacks were carried out in the city of Uthar, capital of the Fiefdom bearing the same name, the heart of the Dutch-speaking domains of the Federation. So far considered peaceful, Uthar attracted a number of elves fleeing from other more troubled parts of the Metropoly where they were constantly harassed by the White Legion. Yesterday, however, the peace was shattered as bombs went off near and inside shops and apartments occupied by the main victims of the Legion’s fury.

An estimated hundred thousand Taraskovyan citizens of Noldor origin has departed the Federation to seek refuge in Taurenor. This figure, however, is subject to rising rapidly as more and more people consider simply leaving the country in which they feel unwelcome. “I do not know how long I can keep on like this,” – said an elvish woman that wanted to remain anonymous. “I do realize that the Legion does not represent the majority of the Taraskovyan population. My Russian neighbours and friends actually organized a constant guard and escort for me and my family, but still, how can you live in peace if you cannot even go out for a walk by yourself?”

The Taraskovyan authorities have already stated that they saw no reason for citizens to flee the nation and that the law enforcement and military personnel have the capacity to ensure efficiently the security of Taraskovyan citizens. However, the latest events tend to prove the contrary…

Continued on page 7.

Ночь порвет наболевшие нити,
Вряд ли я доживу до утра…
Напишите, прошу, напишите,
Напишите два слова, сестра…

The melody was flowing through the air as the singer played to the guitar a song that came from an other time, an other country, but a song that he loved none the less. He sat by the wall of the building he and his comrades took over during yet an other combat against the corrupted and treacherous rulers that tortured his beloved Motherland. And as he sang, other legionnaires hummed along to the tune, even those that were busy observing through the windows what was happening outside, sending bursts of gun fire into Federal troops that circled the location.

Напишите, что мальчика Вову
Я целую, как только могу…
И австрийскую каску из Львова
Я в подарок ему берегу…

Напишите жене моей бедной,
Напишите хоть несколько слов,
Что я в руку был ранен безвредно,
Поправляюсь и буду здоров…

A tank shell landed into the wall not far from them, making them duck for cover, except for the singer, that did not move an inch and kept on playing. The legionnaires opened counter fire, some missiles were fired at the Federal forces outside. They knew that they would not survive the night, they knew everything would end in mere moments once the foes would decide to finally give the assault at the fortified White Legion position in the middle of Amal. But for now, everything was more or less calm, and so they sang, the last song of their lives, surely. Many remembered their families, parents, wives, children, but none doubted that their cause was just.

А отцу напишите отдельно,
Что полег весь наш доблестный полк!
В грудь на вылет я ранен смертельно,
Выполняя свой воинский долг!

The last strophe was sung by everybody, with a terrifying passion and resolve. From the outside, they heard a voice over the loudspeakers calling for them to surrender. A legionnaire let out a burst of fire at the enemy, yelling that Russians never surrender. His burst was answered with sniper fire, a bullet smashing through his head, ripping through the helmet, spraying blood around. Everybody checked their weapons and readjusted their equipment as the singer sang alone the very last words of the song.

Напишите, прошу, напишите,
Напишите два слова, сестра!
Напишите, прошу, напишите,
Напишите…
Два слова…
Сестра…

***

White Legion group eliminated in Amal.

AMAL, TNP – The Federal authorities report that government forces have completely eliminated a group of several dozen White Legion soldiers in the city of Amal. None of the terrorists could be taken alive, the bandits preferring to put an end to their lives to avoid capture.

The group is suspected of having been planning a number of attacks against government installations throughout the Fiefdom of Amalor.

[OOC: Rough translation of the song by your humble servant:

Night will break the painful threads,
I will not live to see the morning…
Write, I beg you, write,
Write a couple words, Sister…

Write, that my son Vova
I kiss however I can,
And that an Austrian helmet from Lvov
I keep for him as present.

Write to my poor wife,
Write at least some words,
That I have been lightly wounded into the arm,
I am getting better and will be in good health…

And to my father write a separate letter,
Telling that fell our valiant regiment!
I am wounded mortally into the chest,
While accomplishing my military duties.

Write, I beg you, write,
Write a couple words, Sister!
Write, I beg you, write,
Write…
A couple words…
Sister…

As you must have understood, it is a World War I song and the 'Sister' is a woman that looks after the wounded in a hospital. ]

From the Vigvar Daily

Archduchess Shakhovskaya forms Government in Exile. Ruling Council yells to high treason.

Yesterday, the Grand Duchess by Right of Tarasovka, in exile in Vinyatírion, has issued a statement in which she condemned the Ruling Council for its inability to govern and accused it of leading the nation to its ruin. It is thus with intent to remedy to the situation that Her Highness Vethara Shakhovskaya decided to repeal her recognition of the Ruling Council as regents of Tarasovka and to take the reins of power into her hands, demanding that the Ruling Council stepped down immediately and unconditionally. She did not threaten the use of force; however, the Alexander Leib-guards Honourary Regiment has already declared that it shall fight to the last should the Grand Duchess by Right order so.

The Order of the Seven, that is in possession of the Sword of Rulers after the death of Grand Duke Mikhail II, has said that it would not oppose the holding of a ceremony of the Passing of Sword at the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris should the Archduchess come there. However, due to the fact that the Citadel, although independent, is completely surrounded by Federal territory, it is not clear how Her Highness would be able to get there.

The Ruling Council has already reacted quite harshly to the news, calling the Archduchess a ‘prostitute under the boot of foreign powers’ and accused her of high treason, punishable by death by Taraskovyan laws. It did, however, take into consideration the fact that the young woman, due to her past stressful experiences, might have been influenced by ‘enemies of the Taraskovyan state’ into serving them against her own will. As such, the Ruling Council is ready to forgive Her Highness and not pursue any legal or other action against her should she return immediately to the Federation.

So far, Her Highness did not take up the offer, as news of her return to the political arena sparked several demonstrations in her support in various Taraskovyan cities. The demonstrations were dispersed violently by NGF soldiers, many demonstrators were arrested or brutally beaten up. The police and the regular army have refused to participate in the clamp down, some of the officers were either dismissed or placed under house arrest, several army units were placed under Federal review by the Kaskad.

Continued on page 2.