NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: I'll just do a brief introduction to catch people up with the present political situation in New Rome, in case they've missed it split across multiple non-related threads as it is ;)

The Fall of the Pantocratoria First Government

60 members of the ruling Pantocratoria First Party, under the leadership of the Emperor's sister Princess Irene, had crossed the floor to vote with the Opposition, the Loyal Christian Front, under the leadership of the Emperor's brother Prince Basil, passing a motion of no confidence in the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sir Jacques Antoniou. As the vote had progressed, Princess Irene left the house. A few days before, Prince Basil had convinced 55 Government members to cross the floor to vote with the Opposition to pass the Knootian Boycott Act, profoundly embarassing the Imperial Government. The Knootian reply provoked Sir Jacques to do something incredibly stupid - as His Majesty's Foreign Minister, he voiced in his letter to the Knootian government his disagreement with the policy passed by the Imperial Parliament. Prince Basil had whipped the house into a frenzy over this exchange, convincing the house and the general public that Sir Jacques demonstrated a total misunderstanding of his role as the Emperor's chief diplomat in publicly disagreeing with what had become the Emperor's policy, even though he disagreed with it.

It has begun to look like Prince Basil has orchestrated a coup in the parliament, through getting some of his old United Christian Front colleagues in the Pantocratoria First Party to vote with him on issues of foreign policy. Rifts in the Pantocratoria First Party room suggest that the Imperial Government is about to lose its parliamentary majority without an election - leaving only one course open to Princess Irene if she wishes to remain the Imperial Chancellor.

When Irene asked her brother to dissolve the Parliament and call a new election, it is unlikely that she knew that the Emperor intended to introduce several new reforms this election as part of th general process of democratisation which he has pursued primarily at the urging of two of his children, Prince Constantine (the Deputy Leader of the Opposition) and Princess Anna.

A Proclamation from the Imperial Court of Christ Pantocrator

http://members.optusnet.com.au/a_marrington/ns/pantocratoria.jpg

In accordance with the wishes of the Imperial Chancellor, Her Imperial Highness the Most Pious Princess Irene, we do hereby declare the Imperial Parliament dissolved.

Further, we hereby command every bishop in the Empire to make such preparations as are necessary for an election in each parish of the Empire, with votes to be cast after morning Mass and before Evensong three weeks hence, on the memorial of Saint Clement I, the twenty-third day of November in the 2004th year of Our Lord and the thirty-first year of our reign.

Further, we command the Pantocratorian Congregation for the Protection of the Creed to make such arrangements as are necessary to inspect the counting of votes in every parish. We do hereby command the Congregation to invite and make welcome United Nations inspectors, and ensure that they obtain full access to the vote counting process in every parish so as to demonstrate to those of our subjects who have expressed doubt in the independence of the Congregation for the Protection of the Creed and in its suitability as an electoral authority.

Finally, we declare that every parish in the Empire will be represented by one seat in the next Imperial Parliament, as has become the custom, but that the three non-representative seats currently held by members of the Imperial Family, in addition to the further six non-representative seats available to members of the Imperial Family, be abolished. If the three sitting members which are members of the Imperial Family wish to be elected in the next Imperial Parliament, we command them to stand for election in some parish, and grant them exemption from the law which requires a candidate for a seat in the Imperial Parliament to be baptised and receive communion in the parish for whose seat they are standing.

Issued by our hand on All Souls Day in the thirty first year of our reign,

ANDREUS
By the Grace of God, Emperor of Pantocratoria, Autocrator of the Romans, Equal of the Apostles, King of France and Navarre, Caesar Augustus, et al.

Some months ago, the Emperor decreed that political parties no longer needed to be founded by a member of the Imperial Family, a Worthy of the Empire, a Knight of the Order of the Pantocrator, or even a person of quality. As a consequence, the following political parties are all contenders in this election for the next Imperial Parliament, which promises to be radically more representative than any previous Imperial Parliament:

Pantocratoria First Party
Leader: The Right Honourable the Imperial Chancellor, Her Imperial Highness the Most Pious Princess Irene
The PFP was founded as an ultra-conservative populist party, a break-away from the old United Christian Front, which once occupied every seat in the Imperial Parliament. It has been in power for a year, increasing its majority at the last election. It has overseen military success in Espario, but its military credentials are presently under fire for its committment to military engagement in both the Excalbian Isles and in defence of Syskeyia. Its foreign affairs credibility in general is in tatters. While the economy has grown in leaps and bounds under the PFP, the income tax rate has reached absurd levels to maintain the enormous bureaucracies which have grown increasingly corrupt which make up the Imperial Public Service.

Loyal Christian Front
Leader: The Right Honourable Leader of the Opposition, His Imperial Highness Prince Basil
The LCF is a more moderate conservative populist party, the remnants of the old United Christian Front. Its leader, Prince Basil, was the previous Imperial Chancellor before the PFP broke away from the United Christian Front and delivered the chacellorship to his sister. The LCF has gradually moved away from the fairly extreme positions of the old United Christian Front government to differentiate itself from the Pantocratoria First Party government. It has promised to clamp down on bureaucratic corruption and lower taxes. It has promised to maintain present military commitments in the Excalbian Isles and in Syskeyia, but has also promised to commit no further assets to either conflict.

Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
Leader: Dr Thibault Drapeur
Five years ago, it is unlikely that even Dr Drapeur would've conceived that the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance would ever be formed, let alone stand for election. An amalgamation of dozens of regional socialist labour movements, the PSA was the first political party registered under the new laws. It is believed to have widespread popular support. It stands for a constitution to greatly restrict the Emperor's power, the extinction of inherited noble titles, and the establishment of secular government, removing the relationship between the Catholic Church and the electoral process, establishing state schools instead of state funding for schools provided by the Church, and removing Catholicism as a requirement of Imperial citizenship. The PSA has also promised to recognise the Fifth French Republic, and Turkish possession of Istanbul. It has promised to withdraw Pantocratoria's military from all theatres of engagement and radically cut back on military spending.

Republican Party
Leader: Julius Andronicus
That Julius Andronicus is even alive, let alone the leader of a political party, speaks volumes about the process of democratisation begun by Emperor Andreus. The Republican Party stands for the total abolition of the position of Emperor, and the establishment of a Senate representing the nobility to act as a house of review as well as the Pantocratorian executive. This revolutionary agenda by itself overshadows the fairly moderate centrist policies it has on most other issues. The Republican Party is not regarded as a serious contender, with very little popular support.

Constantinople Party
Leader: Spiro Bolkus
The Constantinople Party is a centre-right party, and is quite popular in the more traditional Greek areas of the Empire. It seeks to make Pantocratoria a bi-lingual state, re-introducing Greek as an official language alongside French. It stands for the establishment of Byzantine Catholic bishoprics throughout the Empire, although what practical power it would have to do so if elected is unclear. It is in favour of the Excalbian alliance and has promised to maintain Pantocratoria's military presence in the Excalbian Isles, but is opposed to the Syskeyian alliance and has promised to withdraw Pantocratorian military personnel from that conflict as soon as possible. It also stands for the military reconquest of Constantinople, but since every Pantocratorian political party other than the PSA has the reconquest of Constantinople as part of its official platform, it isn't known whether it would actually lead Pantocratoria into war over the city.

Please, feel free to post your OOC and IC thoughts about Pantocratoria's political parties and election!

The poll allows you to vote for more than one party, so that you can vote several parties if you would be equally happy with two or more parties. Pantocratoria employs preferential voting, so voters pick for the party they'd most like to win, then the party they'd next most like to win, and so on. This means that voters can vote for a minor party like the Republican Party without worrying about "throwing away" their vote.

PANTOCRATORIA FIRST PARTY CAMPAIGN LAUNCH

The Isaac V theatre in New Rome is the setting for the Pantocratoria First Party's campaign launch. As the television coverage begins, the excited party members and members of the press fall silent as they sit in pitch black darkness. Suddenly, a spotlight illuminates a huge golden double-headed imperial eagle, clutching the Cross of the Pantocratorian Crusade - the badge of the Pantocratoria First Party, and a choir starts singing "God Save the Emperor" in the darkness.

"Ladies and gentlemen," booms the voice of the MC. "Please join me in welcoming the Leader of the Pantocratoria First Party, the Imperial Chancellor, the Most Pious Princess Irene!"

The audience bursts into applause as a second spotlight shines on the severe figure of the middle aged Princess Irene, standing behind a podium on the stage. Although she does not smile, she raises her arms as if to embrace the enthusiastic reception of the party faithful in the crowd, before the lights come on the whole stage, revealing the PFP's campaign slogan "Stability. Strength. Dignity." emblazoned across the backdrop.

"My friends," she begins. "Three weeks from now, every citizen will have a choice. Do they choose the stability of the Pantocratoria First Party, or chaos? Do they choose the strength of our Government, or the weakness of our opponents? Do they choose dignity, dignity for the Imperial Government, for the Imperial Defence Forces, for ordinary Imperial citizens and their way of life, or do they choose shame at every level of our society?"

"My friends, the past year has been the most turbulent year in modern Pantocratorian history. Throughout these troubled waters, the Imperial Government has kept this Empire's course steady. The year started with our Government stepping in militarily to stop the human rights abuses of the former regime of Espario. Like Caesar in the finest traditions of the Empire, we came, we saw, and we conquered." Irene states proudly, pausing for rapturous applause. "And like Caesar we brought order to chaos! We established responsible government in Espario, ended the genocide which the previous regime had perpetrated, and put an end to the racial conflict there! And that was just the first few months of our time in office!"

Applause!

"Under our watch, we secured the Excalbian alliance. We are now honouring that alliance by assisting Excalbian operations in the Excalbian Isles. We are also honouring our alliance with the Syskeyian Republic, by assisting them in their defence against invading Reich forces." said Irene. "Both Excalbia and Syskeyia have proved valuable allies for us in the past, and will do so again in the future! There are those who say that Pantocratorian blood should not be spilt for foreign alliances, but I say that every drop which is spilt in defence of our allies saves us ten when the time comes for us to call on them!"

The crowd shouts 'Hear! Hear!' and applauds.

"We have achieved stability in the realm of foreign affairs through strength. Strength of arms and strength of resolve. We honour our alliances, and in doing so we make the future a safer place for every citizen!" Irene boasted to further applause.

"We have a lot to be proud of economically. Under our stewardship the Pantocratorian economy has reached hitherto undreamed of heights! Our exports are at an all-time high, and our interest rates are at an all time low. Inflation remains well below average for developed nations." said Irene. "All of this has been made possible through the Imperial Government's unashamed support and protection of Pantocratorian industry. The riff-raff newcomers to Imperial politics, the PSA, would have you believe that our measures to support business are effective in growing the economy at the expense of ordinary workers, but I say, look at the facts! Unemployment is under 3%! Thanks to low interest rates, ordinary workers spend less on their mortgage payments and more to spend on their families! There is nothing exploitative about policies which create wealth and jobs!"

The crowd cheered.

"Pantocratorian culture is under constant assault from the rest of the world!" Irene declared, now onto her favourite topic. "Under the Imperial Government, the Ministry of Cultural Development has protected and nurtured Pantocratorian culture, with an extra one-hundred billion ducats in its budget than under the previous government! Subversive foreign influences of our young people through non-traditional music are a thing of the past. No longer do mothers have to calm their children and sooth their nightmares about inhumans - the elven tourists which once plagued the Empire are no more. The objectivity of our free-press has been assured through the new powers this Imperial Government has granted the Ministry of Cultural Development to ensure that the press always reports the facts truthfully!"

There was enthusiastic applause, as if the crowd knew that here, at her most extreme, the Chancellor was politically vulnerable, and tried to compensate.

"Diplomatic stability! Economic stability! Cultural stability! These things we have achieved through the strength of our arms, our convictions, and our resolve!" Irene proclaimed. "The independence of Pantocratorian policy is absolute! We are feared and respected abroad, we are wealthy but restrained at home. The dignity of our Empire is unimpeachable! I am proud of the manner in which we, my friends, have served His Majesty and the citizens of our great Empire."

The crowd stood and applauded.

"On November the twenty-first, I ask all Imperial citizens to consider the stability of the past year, the strength of the Imperial economy, and the dignity of their homeland and their Government, and to return a stable, strong, and dignified Government!" Irene concluded, finishing her speech to shouts of applause and support from the party faithful.

With the government of Tanah Burung indisposed, it has fallen to the overseas diplomatic network to respond, on a completely unofficial basis, since the government woudl never presume to take sides in another country's election. Below is a statement to the press by Violeta Bi Bere, Tanah Burung's representative to the International Mediation Council.

Democracy is the birth right of all nations. It is a testament to the wisdom of the Emperor of Pantocratoria that his people are able to fully exercise this right through the principle of universal and equal suffrage. The Emperor has expressed his wise and just policy in a number of fields in foreign policy, most recently through the medium of the Knootian Boycott Act; my people owe a debt of gratitude to the Emperor and his counsellors for this expression of support for the principles of international peace and amity among peoples. His Imperial Highness the Prince Basil has also shown statesmanship in reminding the incumbent party of its duties. I hope that our countries shall one day in the near future be able to exchange ambassadors. I congratulate the Emperor and people of Pantocratoria on this historic occasion and express my confidence that the country shall continue its constitutional development and become an ever-stronger voice for peace on earth and for social justice for all people.

(ooc: which deciphers as a vote for the Loyal Christian Front and the Socialist Alliance. Very nice election thread, by the way.)

OOC: Hmmm, I'd go for the Loyal Christian Front, but the Pantocratoria First party wants to aid more in the conflict, so I have a quandary here. :)

IC posts may be coming soon.

Imperial Post, 3rd November 2004

POLLS SHOW HUNG PARLIAMENT

The day after the election has been called, polls of over 1,000 Pantocratorian voters scattered throughout the Empire suggest that the next Imperial Parliament will give no political party an absolute majority in its own right.

The Loyal Christian Front has taken a lead in the polls, with about 37% of respondents saying that they plan to vote LCF on November 21. This is 7% ahead of the Pantocratoria First Party, with 30% of respondents saying that they plan to vote PFP.

Spiro Bolkus, leader of the Constantinople Party, has signalled that he would be willing to discuss he possibility of forming a coalition with either major party. The Constantinople Party is polling quite strongly with just under 20% of the vote.

Continued on page 6...

OOC: Any time for the party leaders to talk to some journalists? :)

OOC: Absolutely! Feel free to post lists of questions for each candidate to answer in press conferences and such.

Emily Berk, a young reporter dressed in local garb for the trip, travels from candidate to candidates, carrying a paper pad and a pen to record their answers. She asks each of them a list of questions, after addressing them by the proper title or honorific.

"How do you feel about the increasing presence of non-human races on the world stage?"

"How successful would you say the alliance with Excalbia has been?"

"Do you have plans to form further foreign alliances?"

"Do you intend to reach out to other parties in Parliament and the nation? If so, how?"

"Do you believe women and men have different places in society? If so, what?"

1) "How do you feel about the increasing presence of non-human races on the world stage?"

2) "How successful would you say the alliance with Excalbia has been?"

3) "Do you have plans to form further foreign alliances?"

4) "Do you intend to reach out to other parties in Parliament and the nation? If so, how?"

5) "Do you believe women and men have different places in society? If so, what?"

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

1) "Increasing? I'm not sure if that is correct. Certainly Pantocratoria has had the good fortune to encounter inhumans less and less in its diplomatic efforts, and ordinary Pantocratorians have my government to thank for the disappearance of inhuman tourists and immigration."

2) "The Excalbian alliance forms the backbone of Pantocratoria's national security. Our joint naval exercises have been absolutely vital to the modernisation of the Imperial Navy, and our cooperation has lead to improved command and control systems throughout the defence forces. The alliance is a resounding success, and my government has consistently strengthened it."

3) "Certainly. With whom will depend on circumstance."

4) "There is only one option for Pantocratorian citizens who want a stable, strong and dignified Imperial Government - returning the Pantocratoria First Party with an absolute majority in its own right. At this stage I won't enter into any speculation about possible coalitions, but you may rest assured that we will not go about in a desperate and unprincipled attempt to hold onto power, making unreasonable concessions."

5) "Naturally men and women have different places in society. But a citizen is a citizen in the eyes of the law - both men and women are entitled to the same rights and protections."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

1) "The condition of non-human races isn't an issue of concern to Pantocratorian voters. An LCF government would deal with foreign governments on the basis of what is in Pantocratoria's best interests, not on racial grounds. It would preserve immigration laws which preserve the national character. It would also allow non-human nations to re-establish their embassy, and allow for the issuing of temporary and tourist visas to certain, non-dangerous non-humans."

2) "The Excalbian alliance has been a success overall. It is a vital part of our defence policy, which is why my government, when I was Imperial Chancellor, established it. But we have become too involved with the situation in Upper Virginia. We could've honoured our alliance without making our embassy a target, but thanks to the reckless jingoist policies of the Imperial Government, our embassy in Courtland is currently a smoking wreck and our ambassador is nowhere to be seen."

3) "Absolutely. An LCF Government will seek security in the world, not security from the world, through comprehensive diplomatic engagement."

4) "The Loyal Christian Front is willing to cooperate with the other parties, providing we can find a common ground, and providing that the leadership and policies voters expect from a future LCF Government are not compromised by such an arrangement. I would be happy to lead a coalition government on those terms."

5) "Yes, I do believe that men and women have different places in society, which isn't to imply any inequality between the sexes, or that women shouldn't be allowed to work, and so on. Men and women perform different roles, but both the male and female roles are important in the advancement of society."

Dr Thibault Draper, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

1) "All people are created equally. The Socialist Alliance rejects the racist assertions of the old guard. We are all here together in this world, and we all have the same basic needs. There will be no racial requirements for citizenship under a Socialist Government."

2) "The Excalbian alliance has only served to endanger Pantocratoria and its service personnel by drawing us into the political mess that is Upper Virginia. A Socialist Government will withdraw our troops and our ships from the Excalbian Isles at once."

3) "A Socialist Government will form alliances based on what is in Pantocratoria's best interests, and our best interests don't involve getting into foreign wars and internal struggles which have nothing to do with us."

4) "We would be willing to work with anybody with the best interests of the Pantocratorian worker at heart. Sadly, I don't believe that the other political parties are interested in improving the lot of ordinary people."

5) "Man or woman, it makes no difference. We are all united by our common needs and desire to improve our lot in life."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

1) "We are opposed to non-human citizens, but are otherwise open to dealing with the governments of non-human nations."

2) "The alliance with Excalbia has been of significant benefit to Pantocratoria. A Republican Government will maintain it."

3) "Absolutely."

4) "We would be prepared to deal with any party which agreed to the abolition of the position of Emperor and the re-establishment of the Senate. We would be prepared to concede our stance on virtually every other policy issue if those key reforms were supported by coalition partners."

5) "I'm sorry, I don't understand the relevance of the question. This election isn't about gender politics, it is a referendum on the Republic - do we want to continue the present tyrannical regime, or do we want to restore a form of government of which we can be proud?"

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

1) "We find it depressing that there are an increasing number of elves, dwarves, Turks, vampires, and other non-humans, relative to humans in the world, but a Bolkus Government would work with the international community, of all racial persuasions, to achieve the best outcome in the diplomatic arena for Pantocratoria."

2) "It has been very successful and is of vital importance to the continued security of the Empire, its citizens, and its interests."

3) "We have no specific plans, but we are open to suggestions. We will make foreign policy decisions in the best interests of the whole country."

4) "Absolutely. The Constantinople Party would be willing to work with any political party which supported our core platform of a bi-lingual Empire, of support for the traditional ways of life in the old countryside and in the cities on the north coast, and of support for the Greek rite, which has been suppressed too long in favour of the Latin in years past, and the French today. Obviously I would love to go to New Rome when the Parliament next meets as the Imperial Chancellor, but I will be happy to go as part of a coalition which supports our core policy objectives."

5) "Yes, of course, men and women have different places in society. It is time we returned to the traditional values. Women should be at home, looking after their children. This isn't sexism, this is common sense. Too many poor families cannot afford childcare, and even the best childcare cannot compare to a mother's love. If married women were encouraged to leave the labour force, the labour of their husbands would be in higher demand, and they would therefore be paid more. Combined with a subsidy for stay at home mothers, provided with some of the surplus which would be available after cracking down on corruption, families in which only the father worked could be provided with the same income, or the same social wage, as they receive now with two parents working. It is in the best interests of the child. When the children are old enough to go to school, then it is appropriate for women to rejoin the workforce."

Emily Berk, a young reporter dressed in local garb for the trip, travels from candidate to candidates, carrying a paper pad and a pen to record their answers. She asks each of them a list of questions, after addressing them by the proper title or honorific.

Teresa Badaga, a reporter from the Syskeyiapolis Hearld, follows a similar strategy in interviewing the candidates herselves. Her questions are these:

1. What is your opinion regarding the Pantocratoria-Syskeyia alliance, and why do you take such a stand?

2. What is your take on Pope Pius XI's statement that "No one can
be at the same time a sincere Catholic and a true Socialist?"

3. What is your stance on the abortion issue, and do you believe that the Empire should withdraw from the United Nations because of it?\

4. What is your view on Pantocratoria's relations with France?

She also has some questions for some of the candidates in particular:

For Irene: From your comments it appears that you do not believe non-humans or on an equal level with humans. Is that so, and nevertheless, what are your reasons for your position on this issue?

For Drapeur: Why do you support the establishment of state-funded private schools, and do you believe that, because of this, Church schools should be shut down?

For Spiro: Your party has stated its support for the military [re]conquest of Constantinople. As the majority of Constantinople's current residents are Muslim, how do you plan to deal with that situation once Pantocratoria retakes the city?

"Your Highness, there are a number of nations, including my own homeland, where significant human populations live in nations with a non-human ruler or rulers. Would you give any especial consideration to human immigrants from such countries, seeking to live under the rule of their own kind?"

"Your Highness, how do you respond to King Gregory's invitation for Christian nations to send missionaries to Holista, keeping in mind that King Gregory is not human, that millions of the Holistan people are human, and that there is no local Christian community whatever at present?"

"Your Highness, how do you feel about the idea of a bi-lingual Pantocratoria?"

"Your Highness, how do you feel about the idea of gay marriage and would you be willing to resign the UN because of it?"

"Your Highness, the world understands your role as the Imperial Chancellor. Independently of your elective office, however, what is the role of an Imperial Princess?"

OOC: I wonder if the Republican Party is getting votes from people who are assuming it is anything like the Republican Party in the US... maybe I should've picked a different name.

OOC: If they read the thread, you made it pretty clear what the Republican Party is for.

Teresa Badaga, a reporter from the Syskeyiapolis Hearld, follows a similar strategy in interviewing the candidates herselves. Her questions are these:

1. What is your opinion regarding the Pantocratoria-Syskeyia alliance, and why do you take such a stand?

2. What is your take on Pope Pius XI's statement that "No one can
be at the same time a sincere Catholic and a true Socialist?"

3. What is your stance on the abortion issue, and do you believe that the Empire should withdraw from the United Nations because of it?\

4. What is your view on Pantocratoria's relations with France?

She also has some questions for some of the candidates in particular:

For Irene: From your comments it appears that you do not believe non-humans or on an equal level with humans. Is that so, and nevertheless, what are your reasons for your position on this issue?

For Drapeur: Why do you support the establishment of state-funded private schools, and do you believe that, because of this, Church schools should be shut down?

For Spiro: Your party has stated its support for the military [re]conquest of Constantinople. As the majority of Constantinople's current residents are Muslim, how do you plan to deal with that situation once Pantocratoria retakes the city?

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

1) "The Syskeyian alliance is of the upmost importance to Pantocratoria. The alliance has been of tremendous benefit to our defence forces, and has strengthened the Empire immeasurably. While it is regrettable that Pantocratoria troops have had to be committed to a conflict between Syskeyia and the Reich which doesn't directly concern Pantocratoria, that is part of being in an alliance, especially one as important to both the Syskeyian and Imperial Governments as this one. It would be remiss of us to neglect our alliance committments after the assistance Syskeyia has provided to us."

2) "Far be it for me to disagree with Pope Pius XI!"

3) "I am utterly opposed to abortion, and am dismayed by the United Nations resolution which has legalised it. If my government is returned, I will put the question as to whether Pantocratoria should remain in the United Nations to the people in a referendum. If the voters want us to leave the United Nations, then we will leave it!"

4) "The Imperial Government isn't in the business of dealing with rebels."

On the bonus question...
"There is no point in pretending that there is any equivalency between the noble and the common, the talented and the mediocre, the human and the inhuman. God created man and appointed him custodian of the rest of his creation. Man is therefore as superior to an inhuman as he is to any other animal."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

1) "It was my government which established the Syskeyian alliance, despite my sister's attempts to claim that particular success for the PFP. At the time, it was a profoundly useful piece of policy, which strengthened Pantocratoria's military and our diplomatic situation. I like Syskeyia, and I still believe the alliance is important. But our citizens are now endangered because the present Government has lead Pantocratoria into a war with the military juggernaut that is the Reich in the name of the Syskeyian alliance. It's a nightmare scenario, and I am deeply concerned for Syskeyia's future, but we cannot imperil our own future, and the security of our own citizens, by escalating our commitment to that conflict. If the Government was truly interested in putting Pantocratoria first, it would promise not to commit anymore troops to the Syskeyia-Reich war."

2) "I wouldn't presume to judge the faith of another, particularly the faith of another politician. I take it you are referring to the PSA candidates."

3) "The Loyal Christian Front is opposed to abortion, but we wouldn't withdraw from the United Nations without Imperial assent under any circumstances, and since the Emperor didn't withdraw Pantocratoria from the United Nations when this resolution was first passed, I wouldn't expect for him to withdraw from it now."

4) "The French Republic is an abomination in the eyes of God, just like Turkish occupation of Constantinople."

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

1) "The Pantocratoria-Syskeyia Alliance has only done harm to the cause of world peace through encouraging the proliferation of military equipment. Now, as a result of that alliance, we are fighting alongside the Syskeyians against the fascist Reich. Some may say that is a good fight - I am inclined to agree. Fascism and fanaticism are evils which must be opposed. But this isn't a fight we can win. Pantocratorians are needlessly endangered by this alliance which has drawn us into a bloody war. The Imperial Government should've gathered more international support against the forces of the Reich before embarking down this path. A Socialist Government would see our troops out of harm's away, and an increased diplomatic effort to build alliances to contain military aggression."

2) "My take is that the statement is irrelevant. This election should be decided on the issues. Do you want a state intertwined with the Church? Or should the state stand separate, with opportunity for all?"

3) "I am opposed to abortion, but not opposed to a woman's right to make that decision for herself. I cannot fathom the taking of a human life, including that of an unborn child, but ultimately I believe it is the mother's right to decide what happens to her body."

4) "The Emperor's claim to the title of King of France is dubious, after all recent DNA testing proved that the heart of the son of Louis XVI is indeed interred in St Dennis, and yet that child was supposedly smuggled to Pantocratoria where he eventually married into the Imperial Family? But without casting further aspersions as to the legitimacy of the claim, for us to continue to deny diplomatic recognition of the French Republic based on a tenuous claim like that is absurd."

On the bonus question...

"At present, all Pantocratorian children are provided with schooling by the Catholic Church, which receives its funding for education from the Imperial Government. I am proposing that instead of paying the Church to provide that education, the Imperial Government should cut out the middle man and provide it itself. If the Church wishes to continue to run schools, let it do so. If a Socialist Government is elected, our first term would be dedicated to the establishment of a state education system. We plan to reallocate funding from the surplus which will come from shutting down the Ministry of Cultural Development into both the state education system and to assist non-government schools, but we don't project that surplus to be available for at least 3 years, and until that time, Church schools will have to go without Government funding. In the long term, however, we would like to see both a state education system fully supported by the Imperial Government and a Church education system partially supported by the Imperial Government. Voters should know that we're not going to close down their child's school."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

1) "A Republican Government will maintain the Syskeyian alliance. I believe it is an important part of Pantocratoria's national security plan. At this stage I will not comment on whether we would support sending more troops to Syskeyia, however."

2) "I try not to mix politics and religion."

3) "I oppose abortion. A Republican Government would withdraw from the United Nations if the United Nations didn't repeal that resolution."

4) "Our poor relations with France are the fault of one man - the Emperor. The average Pantocratorian has no argument with France, and yet the Imperial Government refuses diplomatic relations. This is an example of the tyranny of the imperial system - one man's pride costs the entire nation a potential trading partner and friend. A restored Republic would have no reason to withhold recognition from France."

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

1) "It might have been useful at some stage, but it is meritless now, and only serves to endanger us. The best policy of sensible governments all over the world has been to try to avoid to anger the Reich. If the Syskeyian Government had made any effort avert this war, or to obtain more assistance, that would be one thing, but I think ordinary Pantocratorians can see how this alliance is going to play out - Syskeyia will use the alliance to get our boys to fight their war for them. If we win, it will be at the cost of thousands of Pantocratorian young men. The Constantinople Party puts Pantocratoria's grieving widows and weeping orphans ahead of foreigners."

2) "No comment."

3) "Abortion is the bubonic plague of the modern world, decimating families. We are worried in this country about an aging population and supporting them, and yet we massacre thousands of potential young workers every day! The only way to overcome the greying population problem is through an increased birthrate. And I needn't even address about the devastating impact abortion has on the traditional way of life!"

4) "Ordinary people don't care about France. We should just recognise the French Republic and be done with it - enough of this French pre-occupation!"

On the bonus question...

"Let me quote the national anthem.... 'Cast her Turk occupiers, into Hell's hottest fires.' Turks have no business being in the city of Constantine. Let them go back to Asia Minor, or better yet, Turkestan."

1) "Your Highness, there are a number of nations, including my own homeland, where significant human populations live in nations with a non-human ruler or rulers. Would you give any especial consideration to human immigrants from such countries, seeking to live under the rule of their own kind?"

2) "Your Highness, how do you respond to King Gregory's invitation for Christian nations to send missionaries to Holista, keeping in mind that King Gregory is not human, that millions of the Holistan people are human, and that there is no local Christian community whatever at present?"

3) "Your Highness, how do you feel about the idea of a bi-lingual Pantocratoria?"

4) "Your Highness, how do you feel about the idea of gay marriage and would you be willing to resign the UN because of it?"

5) "Your Highness, the world understands your role as the Imperial Chancellor. Independently of your elective office, however, what is the role of an Imperial Princess?"

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

1) "Our immigration requirements are fairly easy to satisfy. To become a permanent resident you just need to comply with the Act of Religious Sovereignity, the Act of Cultural Preservation, the Act of Industrial and Economic Border Protection, the Act of Moral Decency, and the Act of Imperial Security. You need to get a job or have a means of supporting yourself, learn how to speak French, and become a Catholic if you aren't one already. We feel that those requirements make it quite easy enough for a human such as the one you describe to immigrate, Emily."

2) "I wasn't aware that King Gregory had made any such invitation. I would say that is an issue for the Church, but that my government would be willing to provide financial assistance to any missionary operation."

3) "It is absurd, frankly. French has been the official language for over two hundred years. I will not rule out making certain concessions in order to form government, but I urge all citizens to think seriously before putting the Government in a situation where it has to form a coalition with the Constantinople Party."

4) "Gay marriage is an abomination, but the issue is mostly irrelevant to our membership in the United Nations. The Imperial Government doesn't issue marriage licenses or perform state marriages in Pantocratoria - the only to get married legally in Pantocratoria is through the Catholic Church. If an homosexual couple who were legally married in another UN nation were to come to Pantocratoria, their marriage would receive all the same protections and entitlements of law. But my Government has been careful with its reviews of the immigration process, and it is, mercifully, unlikely that such couples would be able to obtain a more permanent form of legal residence than a work visa. If the United Nations were to compel us to offer civil marriages, then we might consider leaving, but until then, we will remain, pending the outcome of the referendum we talked about earlier, Emily."

5) "I am the only daughter of the late Emperor Isaac V. My eldest brother is His Most Catholic and Imperial Majesty Emperor Andreus. I am therefore styled a Most Pious Princess. I have no powers in my capacity as a Princess."

OOC: Thanks for the questions!

((I'll get to follow up questions for the others. I promise.))

"Your Highness, this might seem off topic but, if I could leave politics and religion behind a moment and discuss philosophy, would you say you embraced the views of St. Thomas Aquinas? If not, is there another Catholic philosopher whose work you study?"

"Your Highness, would you consider the following statement to represent your view? God created three types of beings capable of locomotion: Man, the angels, and animals. When one third of the angels fell, demons became a fourth type. Angels are incapable of sin and demons are incapable of redemption, while animals have no souls to be saved or damned. Correspondingly, the salvation offered by Christ was for man alone."

"Your Highness, what answers do you offer to the unemployed and the working poor?"

A tall reporter in a tweed sports coat, with unkempt hair and crooked tie, stands. “A question for Prince Basil, if I may. Taylor Jakobsons, Landing Herald. Your Highness, your party platform states that you will continue to honor Pantocratoria’s current military commitments in the Excalbian Isles, but will not expand them. Does this mean that, should the Upper Virginian crisis escalate into full-scale war, you would place limits on Pantocratoria’s support to Excalbia?”

A woman in a smart suit, with well-coiffed blonde hair, and backed by a TV camera stands. “Rachel Zemele, EBS. Dr. Drapeur, if I understand your party’s platform, you mean to abrogate the military alliance between Pantocratoria and the Holy Empire. Is this true? What do you think the implications will be for Langeais, which is currently living under a joint security guarantee from Excalbia and Pantocratoria? And what will this do the long-standing arrangement between the Empire and Pantocratoria for the sale of naval ships and technologies? Finally, how will you be able to maintain Pantocratoria’s security and standing in the world community with a radically reduced military and a series of broken military alliances?”

Taylor Jakobsons stood again. “A question for Mr. Bolkus. Sir, you have strongly endorsed the alliance between Excalbia and Pantocratoria. In fact, next to Princess Irene, herself, your endorsement has been the strongest of all the party leaders. You also explicitly pledge to use military force to return Constantinople to Pantocratorian rule. Would you expect the Holy Empire to join you in this military endeavor? And what would be your reaction if Excalbia refused to do so?”

"Your Highness, who would you define as dangerous non-humans?"

"Your Highness, what does your immigration policy have to say about dangerous humans?"

"Your Highness, how do you feel about the increasingly liberal stance of the United Nations on social issues, particularly abortion and homosexuality?"

"Your Highness, does your title of prince indicate a blood relation to your distinguished opponent, Princess Irene?"

"Your Highness, how would you react if a close ally, such as Syskeyia or Excalbia, were to form an alliance with a nation holding greatly different values from Pantocratoria? Are the friends of your friends your friends?"

"Your Highness, what would your government be willing to contribute to international famine relief in underdeveloped nations?"

((I'll get to follow up questions for the others. I promise.))

1) "Your Highness, this might seem off topic but, if I could leave politics and religion behind a moment and discuss philosophy, would you say you embraced the views of St. Thomas Aquinas? If not, is there another Catholic philosopher whose work you study?"

2) "Your Highness, would you consider the following statement to represent your view? God created three types of beings capable of locomotion: Man, the angels, and animals. When one third of the angels fell, demons became a fourth type. Angels are incapable of sin and demons are incapable of redemption, while animals have no souls to be saved or damned. Correspondingly, the salvation offered by Christ was for man alone."

3) "Your Highness, what answers do you offer to the unemployed and the working poor?"

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

1) "I don't know if you can separate Saint Thomas Aquinas from the issue of religion, Emily. I've studied the works of St Thomas Aquinas along with the works of other Church fathers."

2) "My view is this - inhumans are not humans. They are worth less than a person is. They are part of the beauty that is creation, but we are the custodians of all creation. Pantocratoria for Pantocratorians! We won't be beset by elves and other riff-raff."

3) "I offer them no answers. I offer them stability, strength, and dignity. I offer them sound economic management. Low interest rates make a mortgage more affordable than ever before. Low inflation means that the prices of everyday goods won't rise beyond wage rises. Our economic success allows us to offer a higher social wage - more money for the education of the next generation, more money for the protection of our shores, and more money for rent assistance for low income earners. Thanks to the sound economic management of my Government, low income earners are in better position than ever before to take advantage of the prosperity of this country and pull themselves up. And I ask low income earners to consider whether they really want to risk all that!"

"I wasn't asking about elves, Your Highness. I was asking about angels and demons. Do you believe in them and do you believe the souls of the latter are beyond salvation while the former are not in need of it?"

OOC

Preferential voting! Alright! :p

A tall reporter in a tweed sports coat, with unkempt hair and crooked tie, stands. “A question for Prince Basil, if I may. Taylor Jakobsons, Landing Herald. Your Highness, your party platform states that you will continue to honor Pantocratoria’s current military commitments in the Excalbian Isles, but will not expand them. Does this mean that, should the Upper Virginian crisis escalate into full-scale war, you would place limits on Pantocratoria’s support to Excalbia?”

"Well Taylor, I am committed to the Excalbian alliance. It was my Government which first established relations with Excalbia, and my Government which advised His Majesty than an alliance with Excalbia would be beneficial." said Prince Basil. "The Loyal Christian Front's policy is not to expand our military commitments to operations as they presently stand in either the Excalbian Isles or in Syskeyia. At the moment, there is no war in the Excalbian Isles. It is all very well to say 'what if', and 'escalation', but that is all conjecture at this point. We do not believe that the situation as it presently stands requires further Pantocratorian military commitment, however, if the situation changes, so will our reaction. The Loyal Christian Front is thoroughly committed to the alliance, which naturally involves coming to Excalbia's aid in the case of a full-scale war just as Excalbia would come to Pantocratoria's aid. But we're not there yet, and God willing we won't ever get to that point."

A woman in a smart suit, with well-coiffed blonde hair, and backed by a TV camera stands. “Rachel Zemele, EBS. Dr. Drapeur, if I understand your party’s platform, you mean to abrogate the military alliance between Pantocratoria and the Holy Empire. Is this true? What do you think the implications will be for Langeais, which is currently living under a joint security guarantee from Excalbia and Pantocratoria? And what will this do the long-standing arrangement between the Empire and Pantocratoria for the sale of naval ships and technologies? Finally, how will you be able to maintain Pantocratoria’s security and standing in the world community with a radically reduced military and a series of broken military alliances?”

"Thankyou for your opening charitable question..." says Drapeur in a good humoured tone. Some of the assembled press chuckles. "In the Socialist Alliance we stand against sending Pantocratorian troops to die in foreign wars. We would maintain our joint security guarantee of Langeais, because we believe that withdrawing that guarantee would only encourage Langeais to arm itself, which would only serve to further destabilise the region. Pantocratorian citizens are drowning in taxes, taxes which are used in part to pay for the excessive quantity of military armaments Pantocratoria purchases from Excalbia. Cutting back on our arms exchange programs, our armament scheme, means more money which can be spent on actually improving the lives of our citizens. Finally, we believe that the proper way forward for Pantocratoria is to seek security in the world, not from the world, through diplomacy with the objective of global dearmament. Pantocratoria will engage diplomatically, not militarily."

Taylor Jakobsons stood again. “A question for Mr. Bolkus. Sir, you have strongly endorsed the alliance between Excalbia and Pantocratoria. In fact, next to Princess Irene, herself, your endorsement has been the strongest of all the party leaders. You also explicitly pledge to use military force to return Constantinople to Pantocratorian rule. Would you expect the Holy Empire to join you in this military endeavor? And what would be your reaction if Excalbia refused to do so?”

"I don't imagine that Excalbia's help would be required, nor wanted." says Bolkus. "The quest for the reconquest of Constantinople is the story of the first three hundred years of our history in Pantocratoria. It is something which we must do for ourselves. A Rome reconquered for the Romans by barbarians wouldn't be Rome at all."

"Oh, I don't mean that Excalbians are barbarians!" Bolkus added quickly. "I was just trying to illustrate the importance of doing this ourselves to the national psyche. To the French talkers of the cities, this quest might just be a chivalric motto they learned in school, but to the good, hard working, honest folk of the countryside, it is as important to them as the Greek tongue, it is a tradition handed down to them from their mothers and fathers, and their mothers and fathers, and their mothers and fathers, back to the first settlers of Pantocratoria."

1) "Your Highness, who would you define as dangerous non-humans?"

2) "Your Highness, what does your immigration policy have to say about dangerous humans?"

3) "Your Highness, how do you feel about the increasingly liberal stance of the United Nations on social issues, particularly abortion and homosexuality?"

4) "Your Highness, does your title of prince indicate a blood relation to your distinguished opponent, Princess Irene?"

5) "Your Highness, how would you react if a close ally, such as Syskeyia or Excalbia, were to form an alliance with a nation holding greatly different values from Pantocratoria? Are the friends of your friends your friends?"

6) "Your Highness, what would your government be willing to contribute to international famine relief in underdeveloped nations?"

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

1) "Creatures which live by feeding on humans, for instance, like vampires, or werewolves. When I was a boy these things were just monsters one heard about from one's wetnurse, but since Pantocratoria's re-emergence on the world stage, I have discovered that they are only too real."

2) "The Act of Imperial Security covers that. Naturally we don't let people convicted of violent crimes, for instance, into Pantocratoria. But you can't judge humans except by their past behaviour, whereas you can judge some non-humans, like the vampires and werewolves, by their very nature as dangerous."

3) "I think it is unfortunate. I have no object to people who hold such views, but I don't see why they feel obligated to impose them on countries like Pantocratoria. But the judge of how much is too much is the Emperor."

4) "Princess Irene is my sister. For those in the foreign press not acquainted with the Imperial Family, I am the third and final child of the Emperor Isaac V, and the younger brother of both His Majesty and Her Highness."

5) "The friends of our friends are the friends of our friends. Our foreign policy won't be made for us. But I have such regard for Pantocratoria's allies that I can say with a good deal of confidence that I think we would unlikely to ever find that we had significant conflicts of interest with any of their allies."

"I wasn't asking about elves, Your Highness. I was asking about angels and demons. Do you believe in them and do you believe the souls of the latter are beyond salvation while the former are not in need of it?"

"Salvation is irrelevant to angels and demons." replies Irene angrily, her infamous temper never far from the surface. "Angels are God's messengers and attendants, and demons are fallen angels, who chose their plight. I fail to see the relevance of your questions, Emily. My policy platform has little if anything to do with cosmic politics."

5th November edition of The Imperial newspaper:

POLLS CONTINUE TO BAFFLE

The latest polls show that the Loyal Christian Front will secure more votes than any other party, but will fall well short of enough seats in the Imperial Parliament to form Government on November 21.

The Republican Party's soft poll numbers have been vastly improved, put down by some political strategists to their new advertising campaign, which donations records show has primarily come from ex-patriots and foreign sources.

"I don't see any shame in taking money from foreigners to spend on the campaign." said Republican leader Mr Andronicus. "It is obvious that the international community is as tired of the imperial tyranny as we are in the Republican Party, and if they want to help us get our message across to ordinary citizens, I welcome their assistance."

"I have no plans to leave, but I will not comment further on the policies of any party." replied His Most Catholic and Imperial Majesty the Emperor when asked about what he thought of the Republican Party's strengthening poll position.

The polls suggest that the Pantocratoria First Party has become a spent force, falling well behind the Loyal Christian Front, to be approximately level with the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance and the Republican Party.

The Constantinople Party's small but firm support base is holding. With its moderate agenda, and no party looking like it will achieve outright victory, the Constantinople Party is perfectly placed to form a coalition Government with whoever will do business with them.

"We're fighting the good fight for the traditional way of life, and I will be more than happy to talk to anybody who will support our key policy issue of bilingualism about the possibility of a coalition after the election." said Mr Bolkus, leader of the Constantinople Party.

Prince Basil and his family will be receiving reporters tomorrow evening in the Julian Palace in New Jerusalem, before campaigning the next day in the Exarchate.

OOC

Preferential voting! Alright! :p

OOC: Unfortunately I can't actually do a preferential poll, but this is as close to it as I can do. If anybody wants to post their actual preferences, I'd love to see them! :D

As noted at the end of the newspaper article, Prince Basil and his family will be talking to journalists tomorrow evening in a relaxed setting designed to let the voters get to know him. Prince Basil, his wife Princess Jacqueline, and his daughters Princess Marie and Princess Helen will all be present. Feel free to post your questions for the "get to know me" interview.

After finishing her questioning of the candidates, Emily curtseys to Irene and Basil and nods to the others. "Thank you for your time." She leaves Princess Irene's press room rather abruptly, though she meanders out of the others at a leisurely pace.

The Republic of Sarden praises Dr Thibault Drapeur's socialist efforts in Pantocratoria. We can only hope that they lead Pantocratoria into a new golden age of wisdom, properity, honour and freedom.
To this effect, the Republic has decided to contribute $200,000 USD to the Socialist Party.

_____________________________________________
Helm Schatk
Prime Minister
Head of the Social Democratic Party of Sarden (SSDP)
The Republic of Sarden

"Thankyou for your opening charitable question..." says Drapeur in a good humoured tone. Some of the assembled press chuckles. "In the Socialist Alliance we stand against sending Pantocratorian troops to die in foreign wars. We would maintain our joint security guarantee of Langeais, because we believe that withdrawing that guarantee would only encourage Langeais to arm itself, which would only serve to further destabilise the region. Pantocratorian citizens are drowning in taxes, taxes which are used in part to pay for the excessive quantity of military armaments Pantocratoria purchases from Excalbia. Cutting back on our arms exchange programs, our armament scheme, means more money which can be spent on actually improving the lives of our citizens. Finally, we believe that the proper way forward for Pantocratoria is to seek security in the world, not from the world, through diplomacy with the objective of global dearmament. Pantocratoria will engage diplomatically, not militarily."

"A follow up question, Dr. Drapeur, if I may," Zemele asked raising her hand, "you complain that taxes are too high, which you blame on defence spending, and yet, you promise to follow a socialist economic policy. This implies a certain expansion of social welfare guarantees and, possibly, nationalization of some industries. All of which, implies higher taxes. So, isn't it a bit disingineous to criticise the government on one hand for high taxes while endorsing policies that imply even higher taxes?"

Ministry of State, Citadel Excalbia

Minister of State Albert Cummings chewed on the end of his Esperi cigar. “This is bad new, Lord James,” Cummings said, tossing the printed newspaper article onto the coffee table.

Lord James Reynolds, Director of Imperial Intelligence, rubbed his beard as he looked at the paper lying on the paper. “Hardly a disaster, all things considered, Albert.”

The Minister of State harrumphed loudly. “First the Invisible Hand wins the presidency in the Confederation and now the blasted Socialists are leading in Pantocratoria! It certainly isn’t good for the Empire.”

“At worst,” Lord James paused to take a puff of his own cigar, “we’re looking at a hung parliament with the Socialist holding a slim plurality. Our coalition here in the Senate has been so stable that you’re spoiled, Albert; you’ve forgotten that serious horse-trading goes into forming a new coalition when there is no majority.

“Our analysts believe that Pantocratoria First and the Loyal Christians will put their differences aside and form a coalition. Certainly, neither is likely to side with the Socialists. Nor will the Constantinople faction – although it might be amusing to see them try.”

“What about he Republicans?”

“We doubt they’ll be compatible with the Socialists. Even if they do come together, we project that they’ll be a minority government. Hardly in a position to do anything radical. Certainly Ambassador Donnelly is giving you a similar analysis through diplomatic channels.”

“Yes, yes, he is,” Cummings says calming. “And certainly you have other… options under consideration.”

Lord James snuffed out his cigar and stroked his beard. “We do keep our ear close to the ground, Minister…”

OOC:
Well, the government would silently root for the Pantocratoria First Party (without publicly making a fuss about it) but Knootian public opinion would favour the Republican party. This is not because Knootians like the Republican party but because it is the least unsympathetic one.

Anyway, with the Order of the Invisible Hand trying to move into the Excalbadian Isles region (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=354264&page=3) (and the Knootian government playing Empire in your backyard as a result)AND and the Knootian boycott act still in effect I figure there is some RP ahead. I wonder how much Pantocratoria is suspecting anyway, at this point. :P

I’m sticking with the journalist format, btw.

IC:
A middle-aged woman in a smart suit travelled to the Imperium to interview the candidates and ask some questions on party policy. Around her neck she wore a small but elegant Catholic cross. This was not because she was really devout but it would avoid some akward questions in the devout nation. Of course, the 0,21% Catholic population of the DDR was underrepresented with KNN World News as it was. After introducing herself, she asked:

“If I may ask, I have a question that deeply concerns our viewers in Knootoss…the Knootian Boycott act. With the elections making the positions of all parties open again, what will your respective parties position will in relation to the Knootian Boycott Act, specifically with regard to when it will end. More in general, what is your position regarding the antiterrorist operations in Tanah Burung?”

“If I may ask a follow-up question relating to the Exalbadian region, namely how does your party regard the latest developments in the Confederation of Soveriegn States* and does your party believe that intervention of any kind by the Holy Empire of Excalbia or by Pantocratoria is in any way needed? How does your party define Pantocratorian long-term interests in the region as a whole?”

*Presuming this is *after* the election of Cain, the Order of the Invisible Hand guy, and after the (announcement of) the Confederation signing KIST and snuggling up to the DDR in general.

A short, squat and fat woman with red cheeks who would undoubtedly be considered pretty and beautiful if she lost her weight, stood up to ask a question. Her clothing covered well most of her bulk.

"Yes, I have a general question for all of the candidates.
What kind of trade policy will you follow? Are you protectionist or free market?"

She sat back down, waiting for a reply...

"A follow up question, Dr. Drapeur, if I may," Zemele asked raising her hand, "you complain that taxes are too high, which you blame on defence spending, and yet, you promise to follow a socialist economic policy. This implies a certain expansion of social welfare guarantees and, possibly, nationalization of some industries. All of which, implies higher taxes. So, isn't it a bit disingineous to criticise the government on one hand for high taxes while endorsing policies that imply even higher taxes?"

Drapeur laughs.

"It would be difficult for any government to raise taxes beyond those which are presently implace. But your question is a fair one." Drapeur explains. "At present, much of the Government's tax income is spent on areas like defence, maintaining the 140+ official palaces of members of the Imperial Family, the Ministry of Cultural Development, and other expenditures from which most citizens receive no financial benefit. The Socialist Alliance believes in taxation as the key to income equality, but under a Socialist Government, people will get their tax back - not as tax breaks, but through increases in the effective social wage, that is to say, increased expenditure in welfare, healthcare, and public education."

“If I may ask, I have a question that deeply concerns our viewers in Knootoss…the Knootian Boycott act. With the elections making the positions of all parties open again, what will your respective parties position will in relation to the Knootian Boycott Act, specifically with regard to when it will end. More in general, what is your position regarding the antiterrorist operations in Tanah Burung?”

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

"Well..." Princess Irene starts, still feeling the egg on her face which came from the Boycott Act which brought her Government crashing down around her. "As you would be aware, there have been some divisions within the PFP about this issue. We've expelled the disloyal element. A re-elected Pantocratoria First Government would repeal the Boycott Act. While we feel the DDR's operations in Tanah Burung could be conducted better, we certainly support their objectives. Voters should remember the ever-present threat of terrorism when they go to the polls, and consider that my Government has been strong on terrorism."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

"The Knootian Boycott Act is an entirely appropriate response to the way the government of the DDR has behaved in Tanah Burung. This is a matter of principle. The Loyal Christian Front supports the war on terror, but we don't support the blatant disregard for the sovereign borders of Tanah Burung which the Knootian Government has shown." says Basil.

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

"I agree with the Opposition Leader. The DDR has behaved with utter disregard for the sovereignity of Tanah Burung. The terrorism excuse is just that - this is really neo-imperialism. Shame on the DDR. I'm sure that Knootian workers see their government's lies for the blatant untruths they are."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

"We oppose the Boycott Act. It doesn't do anybody any good, and if we had a Senate to review nonsense legislation like this, it never would've been past. Vote Republican to end imperial tyranny, end unchecked legislating, and end this boycott, which costs our businesses more than it costs Knootian ones!"

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

"My position is this - I will support anybody's position on the Knootian Boycott Act if they will support my party's core policy platform. I think that having a country where our children can speak Greek in the schools again is worth a boycott, or, lifting a boycott for that matter."


“If I may ask a follow-up question relating to the Exalbadian region, namely how does your party regard the latest developments in the Confederation of Soveriegn States* and does your party believe that intervention of any kind by the Holy Empire of Excalbia or by Pantocratoria is in any way needed? How does your party define Pantocratorian long-term interests in the region as a whole?”

*Presuming this is *after* the election of Cain, the Order of the Invisible Hand guy, and after the (announcement of) the Confederation signing KIST and snuggling up to the DDR in general.

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

"We... we're... the... the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to brief me on the latest developments in the Confederation of Sovereign States... we will formulate an appropriate response."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

"It is the role of the Excalbians to take the leadership on this particular issue. A Loyal Christian Government would support their policy line as part of our commitment to the alliance. Our long-term interests in the region primarily concern the stabilisation of Upper Virginia, the protection of Langeais, and naturally, the well-being of our very close ally, Excalbia."

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

"None of our concern, really."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

"I won't comment on the immediate political situation. The Republican Party's long term policy standpoint on the Excalbian Isles is this - Excalbia is Pantocratoria's most valuable ally, and it should be supported as far as is possible and reasonable. Langeais is totally harmless, and is dependent on us for its security. And so long as the rest of the region remains stable, it is of little concern to me. What I'd really like to talk about is the injustice inherent in having an Emperor in whose name all laws are...(snip)"

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

"I would be prepared to consider the positions of any of the other party leaders so long as they support the key policy objectives of my party. At this stage, I think that is the most responsible answer I can give for my constituency. We would let a coalition partner take the lead on such issues if they would only reintroduce our mother tongue."

A short, squat and fat woman with red cheeks who would undoubtedly be considered pretty and beautiful if she lost her weight, stood up to ask a question. Her clothing covered well most of her bulk.

"Yes, I have a general question for all of the candidates.
What kind of trade policy will you follow? Are you protectionist or free market?"

She sat back down, waiting for a reply...

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

"My Government has always followed and will continue to follow whatever trade policy it feels best serves the interests of Pantocratoria. We have always sought to protect Pantocratorian jobs and industry through the various means open to the Imperial Government, so I suppose you could categorise me as a protectionist."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

"The present Imperial Government's economic successes can all be put down to its continuance of my Government's protectionist trade policies. We modernised the Pantocratorian economy whilst protecting Pantocratorian jobs. The automobile sector reached unparalleled heights under my Government. Jobs - that's what the Loyal Christian Front stands for. We'll follow whatever policy creates or preserves the most jobs."

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

"The process of economic modernisation hasn't gone far enough, and in all too many industries, what Their Imperial Highnesses describe as progress has been at the expense of the jobs they both profess to desire to protect. We stand for a nationally planned economy, which will require certain industries to be significantly protected until they reach their growth targets."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

"I believe in the free market, just like I believe in government free from interference from a tyrant far removed from the people. Through free trade, our economy will naturally find those areas in which it most excels, abandoning those in which it cannot be competitive, to the ultimate benefit of all Pantocratorians."

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

"I don't think that either the PFP or the LCF are really protectionists. You ask the goat herders in Isaakia, or the peacock farmers in Chantouillet, what they think of the protection of either the present or the previous Imperial Government. Our traditional industries have endured a never ending assault of foreign imports, and as they have sickened, so has our traditional way of life. I am a protectionist, because by protecting the goat herders, the peacock farmers, the cheese makers, the good, hardworking country people who are the guardians of traditional values, we will be protecting the way of life we all cherish."

OOC: Unfortunately I can't actually do a preferential poll, but this is as close to it as I can do. If anybody wants to post their actual preferences, I'd love to see them! :D

As noted at the end of the newspaper article, Prince Basil and his family will be talking to journalists tomorrow evening in a relaxed setting designed to let the voters get to know him. Prince Basil, his wife Princess Jacqueline, and his daughters Princess Marie and Princess Helen will all be present. Feel free to post your questions for the "get to know me" interview.

OOC: Any takers for this interview?

Alex Krastins, a tall young man in a leather jacket with a blue tie and jeans, stood and raised his hand. "Excuse me, I'm here with Dominion News Service. Two questions for each of the candidates.

"First, the current government has clearly sided with Excalbia in the Dominion's on-going disputes and, by implication, with those rebels opposing the lawful government of General Altman. Would you continue this policy and, if so, what is your justification for this interventionism in Upper Virginia?

"And, second, a general question. Each of you have staked out maximalist positions that pretty much exclude the agendas of each of the other parties. However, the most recent polls show you are heading for a split parliament. So, for each of you, what are your minimalist positions? What would you be willing to compromise to form a new coalition and what would be a deal breaker?"

Alex Krastins, a tall young man in a leather jacket with a blue tie and jeans, stood and raised his hand. "Excuse me, I'm here with Dominion News Service. Two questions for each of the candidates.

"First, the current government has clearly sided with Excalbia in the Dominion's on-going disputes and, by implication, with those rebels opposing the lawful government of General Altman. Would you continue this policy and, if so, what is your justification for this interventionism in Upper Virginia?

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

"The Imperial Government doesn't deal with rebels. You have inferred incorrectly, Alex. We will continue to support our Excalbian allies because that is the path most likely to lead to stability in the region."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

"We will continue to support our allies, but I don't believe we can justify increasing our commitment. Our troops are there to preserve the safety of Langeais and the stability of the region generally. We're not there to overthrow governments. The Imperial Government doesn't deal with rebels."

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

"I don't think our involvement can be justified. The Imperial Government is jeopardising the lives of our service personnel getting involved in a fight which doesn't involve us."

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

"We would continue to support our allies. Tell our embassy staff that General Altman represents lawful government - where was his lawful government when our ambassador was killed or kidnapped?"

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

"I would continue to support Excalbia, and I justify that position with the Excalbian Alliance. It is so important to Pantocratoria that if we must involve ourselves in Upper Virginia to honour it, so be it."

"And, second, a general question. Each of you have staked out maximalist positions that pretty much exclude the agendas of each of the other parties. However, the most recent polls show you are heading for a split parliament. So, for each of you, what are your minimalist positions? What would you be willing to compromise to form a new coalition and what would be a deal breaker?"

Princess Irene, Pantocratoria First Party (incumbent)

"The only poll that matters happens on November 21. The only way for Pantocratorians to ensure that they have a responsible government on November 22 is to return the Imperial Government with an absolute majority in its own right. Not a single one of our policies is up for negotiation. We will not go begging for a coalition partner. We represent stability, strength and dignity. If Pantocratorians don't want those three things, then they should vote for the rabble which opposes us."

Prince Basil, Loyal Christian Front

"I don't want to speculate. Those sort of negotiations should take place after the election. But I think Monsieur Bolkus has taken quite a laudable stand about forming a coalition government, and certainly, if we have to, negotiating with the Constantinople Party is not... out of the question. The Loyal Christian Front is utterly opposed to the anarchy which a Republican Government would bring."

Dr Thibault Drapeur, Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance

"I will speculate. For any other party to form a coalition with us, they would have to support cuts in military spending, the abolition or reduction of the role of the Ministry of Cultural Development, increases in the social wage, and the separation of the electoral process from the Church. Those are our minimal policy positions. But I urge voters not to put us in a situation where we would need to form a coalition government. The scenario which is in the best interests of the Pantocratorian worker is the election of a Socialist Government with a majority in the Imperial Parliament!"

Julius Andronicus, Republican Party

"Our minimal policy position is simple - the abolition of the office of emperor, and establishment of a senate whose members are drawn from the aristocracy. We would be prepared to swallow virtually any pill for that!"

Spiro Bolkus, Constantinople Party

"As I have kept saying, our minimalist position is quite simple - we would form a coalition with anybody who supported bi-lingualism and protection for the traditional way of life."

OOC: Any takers for this interview?

ooc: OK.

ic:

Rachel Zemele, dressed in a smart yellow-gold dress, sat in the armchair across from Prince Basil and his family. Behind her several key lights, a cameraman and a sound technician stood waiting. “This is Rachel Zemele, EBS. I’m sitting here with Prince Basil, former Chancellor of Pantocratoria and leader of the opposition, and his family.”

Zemele smiled and turned towards the Pantocratorian prince. “Your Highness, we’ve heard quite a bit over the last few days about your policies and positions, so I’d like to focus in something a little more personal. Why is that you want to be chancellor? And what traits will you bring to the job that your opponents, including your sister, won’t?”

ooc: OK.

ic:

Rachel Zemele, dressed in a smart yellow-gold dress, sat in the armchair across from Prince Basil and his family. Behind her several key lights, a cameraman and a sound technician stood waiting. “This is Rachel Zemele, EBS. I’m sitting here with Prince Basil, former Chancellor of Pantocratoria and leader of the opposition, and his family.”

Zemele smiled and turned towards the Pantocratorian prince. “Your Highness, we’ve heard quite a bit over the last few days about your policies and positions, so I’d like to focus in something a little more personal. Why is that you want to be chancellor? And what traits will you bring to the job that your opponents, including your sister, won’t?”

Basil nods and smiles. As he starts to speak, his wife Princess Jacqueline looks at him in a no-doubt carefully trained admiring fashion.

"I want to be the Imperial Chancellor because I think I'm the right man for the job. Pantocratoria deserves real leadership from its chancellor, and that's something only I can deliver. I think I'm the only party leader capable of providing that leadership, and that's why I want the job." says Basil. "I've got the experience - much more than the current Imperial Chancellor. I've got the patience a chancellor needs, unlike some of the more radical leaders. I've got the breeding appropriate for a Pantocratorian leader, which none of the other leaders but my sister have. I lead a mature, moderate and responsible party."

Rachel Zemele nodded as she listened. “Your Highness, you speak of leadership and of your experience. This brings to mind two questions. First, as a leader you must have a vision of where you are leading your people. Where do you wish Pantocratoria? What is your vision for country? And, given your past experience as Imperial Chancellor, what changes, if any, can people expect from you if you are elected?”

Rachel Zemele nodded as she listened. “Your Highness, you speak of leadership and of your experience. This brings to mind two questions. First, as a leader you must have a vision of where you are leading your people. Where do you wish Pantocratoria? What is your vision for country? And, given your past experience as Imperial Chancellor, what changes, if any, can people expect from you if you are elected?”

"If I am elected chancellor, I will lead Pantocratoria into the promised land the Emperor has shown us with his reforms. We will embrace the new liberties and freedoms of that promised land without letting go of the traditions and way of life we love so much. I will lead Pantocratoria to the economic promised land, maintaining present low interest rates and inflation, but at the same time putting more money back into the pockets of the tax payer, cutting back on our oppressive tax burden. Tax relief will be the number one economic priority of a Loyal Christian Government." promises Basil. "And in foreign affairs, I will lead Pantocratoria to the position of prominence that it was born to. Through diplomatic engagement we can lead the world to peace."

"As for what will be different, the answer is a lot, Rachel. That extremist element of the old United Christian Front which was lead by my sister will no longer be forcing the Imperial Government's hand. The Ministry of Cultural Development will have its role almost completely abolished - it will be left with nothing but responsibility for allocating government funds to the arts, films, and so on." says Basil, before looking to his two daughters. "I believe in the young people of this country, Rachel. We can trust them to make the right decision. We can even trust them to listen to popular music and still preserve the old ways. The Ministry of Cultural Development will no longer censor our newspapers, television shows, music, books and artwork in the name of rooting out subversive elements. We'll be governing with the people - our Imperial Government will be the most representative government in Pantocratoria's history."

"If I am elected chancellor, I will lead Pantocratoria into the promised land the Emperor has shown us with his reforms. We will embrace the new liberties and freedoms of that promised land without letting go of the traditions and way of life we love so much. I will lead Pantocratoria to the economic promised land, maintaining present low interest rates and inflation, but at the same time putting more money back into the pockets of the tax payer, cutting back on our oppressive tax burden. Tax relief will be the number one economic priority of a Loyal Christian Government." promises Basil. "And in foreign affairs, I will lead Pantocratoria to the position of prominence that it was born to. Through diplomatic engagement we can lead the world to peace."

"As for what will be different, the answer is a lot, Rachel. That extremist element of the old United Christian Front which was lead by my sister will no longer be forcing the Imperial Government's hand. The Ministry of Cultural Development will have its role almost completely abolished - it will be left with nothing but responsibility for allocating government funds to the arts, films, and so on." says Basil, before looking to his two daughters. "I believe in the young people of this country, Rachel. We can trust them to make the right decision. We can even trust them to listen to popular music and still preserve the old ways. The Ministry of Cultural Development will no longer censor our newspapers, television shows, music, books and artwork in the name of rooting out subversive elements. We'll be governing with the people - our Imperial Government will be the most representative government in Pantocratoria's history."


“A very noble vision, your Highness,” Rachel Zemele said with a smile. Then, turning towards the Prince’s wife and daughters, Zemele leaned forward. “Your Highnesses, may ask all of you how you are coping the burden this campaign is placing on your lives and what you think of Prince Basil’s chances in the polls? And, what do you, Princess Marie and Princess Helen, in particular think of your father's committment to reduce the role of the Ministry of Cultural Development?"

“A very noble vision, your Highness,” Rachel Zemele said with a smile. Then, turning towards the Prince’s wife and daughters, Zemele leaned forward. “Your Highnesses, may ask all of you how you are coping the burden this campaign is placing on your lives and what you think of Prince Basil’s chances in the polls? And, what do you, Princess Marie and Princess Helen, in particular think of your father's committment to reduce the role of the Ministry of Cultural Development?"

"We're used to living our lives in the public gaze. In that respect I feel sorry for Mesdames Drapeur and Bolkus because their husbands are both new to public life." answered Princess Jacqueline. "Naturally I find it hard being away from His Highness as he goes about the Empire campaigning. But I wouldn't call it a burden."

"I think it is about time we got to hear the music everyone else is listening to." said Princess Marie, smiling.

"And what everyone else is wearing." added Princess Helen.

"Her Highness, our aunt, talks about preserving Pantocratorian culture. But our generation, we're Pantocratorians too. If we want to listen to new types of music and wear new types of clothes, then those things become part of our culture by virtue that we're Pantocratorians!" said Marie.

"MCD doesn't preserve culture - it petrifies it. Freezes it. Culture doesn't stay static - it changes! She just uses... erm... Her Highness just uses MCD to force everyone to conform to her vision of the world. Young people are sick of it." Helen says firmly.

Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance Campaign Launch

A noisy, cheering crowd of hundreds of party members and trade unionists are gathered in the midst of Manuel VII Park in the outer suburbs of New Rome. They have been clapping and cheering the leaders of the various parties, unions and action groups which form the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance all afternoon as one after another has spoken, and as the sun sets, the crowd is bubbling with excitement and optimism. The stage, on which stand banners representing all member organisations of the PSA under one large red banner depicting a stylised golden double-headed Imperial Eagle clutching a hammer and sickle in its claws - the logo of Pantocratoria's newest and most popular political party, is set and waiting for the PSA's leader.

The crowd roars as Dr Thibault Drapeur steps onto the stage with his wife by his side. He raises a hand in acknowledgement of the crowd's applause, and strides purposefully to the podium.

"My friends..." he starts, the noise of the crowd almost totally drowning him out. "My friends..."

Drapeur raises his hands to silence the crowd, and grins widely when he is unable to do so. The cheers seem to go on for minutes until finally he is allowed to talk.

"My friends! I thank you all so much for your support! I thank you, the workers of Pantocratoria thank you, and the voters of our nation thank you for finally giving them a voice!" he says. The crowd cheers.

"My friends, this weekend we will contest every seat in the Imperial Parliament. When the Imperial Parliament is called after November 21, PSA members will be sitting there for the first time!" he promises, and the crowd cheers.

"I must be honest with you," Drapeur says, in a cautionary tone. "At this stage it seems improbable that any party will achieve a majority. That is why I must ask you with just a few days to go until the election to work harder although you have already been working hard, to fight harder for every vote although you have already been fighting, and to never give up although I know you would never consider it! For although the polls say that no party will achieve a majority, they also say that the PSA is the most popular party!"

"I believe we will go to the next Imperial Parliament with more seats than any other party. Ordinarily that would mean that we would be most likely to be able to form a coalition government, but we all know how important the work the next Imperial Government must do is, and I believe only the Socialist Alliance can be trusted to do that work." says Drapeur. "You all know the work to which I refer - the establishment of a state education system, taxation reform to shift the burden from those least able to bear it, welfare reform, and ensuring peace through diplomatic engagement. Only the PSA can be trusted to do the work which must be done. Only the PSA!"

"My friends you are right to feel proud of how far we have come, you are right to be optimistic about this weekend, but we must none of us forget that there is still work to be done. If we are to give this nation the government it deserves, we must double our efforts in these last few days. We have come so far. We have far to go. But I know we can get there through solidarity! Together we can build a better future for all Pantocratorians!" Drapeur concludes, and the crowd applauds before the news feed fades out.

OOC: Can I get some UN members volunteer to send some electoral scrutineers along to observe the whole voting and vote counting process?

Imperial Post, 18th November 2004

Polls stabilise with 3 days left to go

Polls have settled somewhat after their early eratic behaviour, but still indicate that no party is even close to forming a majority in the Imperial Parliament.

The Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance is leading the polls with approximately 33% of respondents suggest that the PSA will receive their first preference. They are closely followed by the Loyal Christian Front with 29.5% of the vote.

The Pantocratoria First Party is now badly trailing with 26% of the vote - a downwards trend for the Imperial Government. The Constantinople Party is showing strongly with 10% of the vote and will be in a good position to form a coalition with the LCF or PSA.

The Republican Party's early popularity has plummeted as the other parties have started advertising, attracting only 2% of voters.

"They're too extreme, and he's too much of a one issue candidate." said one respondent of Republican leader Monsieur Andronicus.

Sources within each party suggest that a number of preference deals have been recently concluded for marginal seats, and will be announced later today.

Under preferential voting, a voter places a 1 in the box next to the name of their preferred candidate, a 2 in the box next to their next favourite candidate, a 3 in the box next to their next favourite candidate, and so on until all boxes have been numbered. In order to win a seat, a candidate has to have more than 50% of the vote. If no candidate has 50% of the vote, then the candidate with the least votes is eliminated and the ballots cast for him are reallocated according to the voter's next preference.

How to vote cards are therefore distributed by each candidate, showing voters how the candidate would like them to allocate their preferences. Approximately 80% of voters allocate preferences according to the how to vote card, although they're under no obligation to do so. How to vote cards are therefore an important political tool.

Although each candidate's how to vote card will vary based on which candidates are running in which seats, the general allocation of preferences as announced today is as follows:

Pantocratoria First Party
[ 1 ] Pantocratoria First Party
[ 2 ] Constantinople Party
[ 3 ] Loyal Christian Front
[ 4 ] Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
[ 5 ] Republican Party

Loyal Christian Front
[ 3 ] Pantocratoria First Party
[ 2 ] Constantinople Party
[ 1 ] Loyal Christian Front
[ 4 ] Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
[ 5 ] Republican Party

Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
[ 4 ] Pantocratoria First Party
[ 2 ] Constantinople Party
[ 3 ] Loyal Christian Front
[ 1 ] Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
[ 5 ] Republican Party

Republican Party
[ 5 ] Pantocratoria First Party
[ 2 ] Constantinople Party
[ 4 ] Loyal Christian Front
[ 3 ] Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance
[ 1 ] Republican Party

Constantinople Party
The Constantinople Party has yet to announce any preference deals, and is unlikely to, since every party is courting them as potential coalition partners.

TO: Their Imperial Highnesses the Prince Joseph and the Most Pious Princess Anna, Chateau Langeais, The Principality of Langeais
FROM: Her Imperial Highness the Right Honourable the Imperial Chancellor the Most Pious Princess Irene

Your Highnesses,

His Majesty requests your immediate presence at the Imperial Court of Christ Pantocrator. His Majesty fears for your safety in the Excalbian Isles with the present situation in Upper Virginia, as do we all, and he and I both long for your company once again.

With kindest and most sincere regards,

Irene

TO: Their Imperial Highnesses the Prince Joseph and the Most Pious Princess Anna, Chateau Langeais, The Principality of Langeais
FROM: Her Imperial Highness the Right Honourable the Imperial Chancellor the Most Pious Princess Irene

Your Highnesses,

His Majesty requests your immediate presence at the Imperial Court of Christ Pantocrator. His Majesty fears for your safety in the Excalbian Isles with the present situation in Upper Virginia, as do we all, and he and I both long for your company once again.

With kindest and most sincere regards,

Irene


Prince Joseph placed the message on his desk and looked over at his young wife.

"What do you think, Anna? Do you want to go back to New Rome for a little while? I have every confidence in Lord Phocas' fleet and its capacity, not to mention that of the Imperial Navy, to protect us. But, if you would like to go home for a visit, I wouldn't object..."

Prince Joseph placed the message on his desk and looked over at his young wife.

"What do you think, Anna? Do you want to go back to New Rome for a little while? I have every confidence in Lord Phocas' fleet and its capacity, not to mention that of the Imperial Navy, to protect us. But, if you would like to go home for a visit, I wouldn't object..."

Anna smiled.

"Joseph, it isn't an invitation, it's an order." she translated for her husband's benefit. "But I don't mind, I'd love to see my family again. No doubt Irene shares your confidence in the Imperial Navy, she must have some other reason for wanting us to come. Probably more to do with the election than any real danger to us."

The Peacock Airlines 747 carrying Prince Joseph and Princess Anna touched down on the runway at New Rome International Airport. A troop of Varangian Guard was drawn up on the tarmac across the carpet from a brass band, wearing heavy overcoats over their dress uniforms to guard against the impending rain whose imminent arrival was demonstrated by the dark skies above. At the end of the purple carpet stood the Emperor, Sir Constantine the Hardy, Princess Irene, Princess Theodora, Princess Zoë, Prince Constantine, and Prince Basil (from left to right), all wearing heavy coats against the rain. The news media was some way back, well behind the Imperial cars, their cameras flashing.

As the door on the 747 opened, and Prince Joseph and Princess Anna descended from the aircraft, the band started playing. Despite the weather, Princess Anna's look of excitement was obvious. She was clearly overjoyed to see her family again. At the other end of the carpet, the enthusiasm of Anna's sisters Theodora and Zoë was even more unrestrained. The couple finished walking down the carpet and paid their appropriate respects to the Emperor, who embraced his daughter and shook his son-in-law's hand. Each of the Imperial Family members then greeted the couple in term as the cameras flashed. After the greetings were done with, the Imperial Family were driven to the Imperial Court of Christ Pantocrator.

Imperial Post, 20 November 2004

IMPERIAL VISIT RAISES PROFILE OF EXCALBIAN ALLIANCE

Early polls suggest that the visit of Their Imperial Highnesses Prince Joseph and Princess Anna has raised the profile of the Excalbian Alliance in the minds of voters.

When asked in Wednesday's set of polls how they felt about the Excalbian Alliance, 32% of voters said it was important in how they would cast their vote. When asked this morning, 58% of voters said it was important in considering how they would cast their vote.

"We are suspicious about the timing of this visit, but welcome both Their Highnesses back to Pantocratoria." said Dr Drapeur when confronted with these figures.

"Naturally, as the Imperial Parliament's strongest proponent of the alliance, I am glad that the issue has achieved the prominence it deserves." answered His Imperial Highness Prince Basil when asked about the figures. "A vote for the LCF is a vote for the alliance."

"The Excalbian Alliance is the keystone of our national security. Only the Pantocratoria First Party can be trusted to maintain our stability, strength and dignity through continuing to support the alliance in full." declared Her Imperial Highness the Imperial Chancellor, who also dismissed questions about the timing of the visit as "overly cynical" and without merit.

OOC

Voting has started! After morning Mass, all the churches across the Empire have become polling boothes.

Last chance for UN member countries to offer electoral inspectors!

The results will be calculated by means of a computer program I've written.

1) There are 540 seats with an average of 4,800,000 voters (stupid absurd population size)
2) Each voter has a percentage chance to cast his or her vote for a party equal to the percentage in the poll in this thread (with a -10% modifier to the Republican Party, +3% to the PFP, +4% to the LCF, and +3% to the PSA). The voter will allocate preferences as per the party's preference distribution, with the Constantinople Party voters randomising their preferences. This means that your voting in this thread determines how likely Pantocratorians are to vote for your preferred parties.
3) There are 160 of the 540 seats where the majority of the population is Greek Pantocratorian (+40% to the Constantinople Party's vote chance, -10% to each other party).

When the poll in this thread closes, I will run the program with the final percentages, and make the results available here along with the source code. Happy voting!

Early testing suggests that a 40% advantage to the Constantinople Party in the first 160 seats is excessive - this will be toned down somewhat.

OOC: Anxiously awaiting the results. And the program. Once the shooting stops in Upper Virginia, there just may be a political surprise or two in Excalbia!

Imperial Post 21 November

PRE-POLLING SHOWS NO ABSOLUTE MAJORITY

Pre-polling conducted by the Imperial Post, surveying 100 voters in each seat, confirms that the election is now a two-horse race between the Loyal Christian Front and the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance, but suggests that neither party will have enough seats to form government in its own right.

Our electoral analysts expect the Imperial Government to fail to hold all but approximately 70 of its seats, leaving it well behind the LCF and PSA. Polling suggests that popular support for the Constantinople Party in rural, Greek-speaking regions of the Empire will deliver some 90 odd seats to the Constantinople Party, leaving it in a powerful negotiating position.

The Loyal Christian Front and Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance are expected to win between 180 and 200 seats each. The Republican Party is unlikely to obtain any seats, with just over 1000 of the 54000 people surveyed planning to vote for the radical group.

Our electoral analysts also warn that the polls have been extremely volatile of late. Although our final poll suggests that the LCF and PSA will be equally placed in the Imperial Parliament, Peacock News Channel's morning poll suggests that the LCF would come just short of forming government with 260 seats.

In any case, it seems likely that Pantocratoria's next government will be a coalition of two or more parties.

Polls close today at Evensong!

OOC: Can I get some UN members volunteer to send some electoral scrutineers along to observe the whole voting and vote counting process?

Upon hearing this most prudent invitation, the Constitutional Monarchy of Fass, ever an ardent supporter of referendums and widely known in the region and the UN for executing them under controlled and orderly circumstances, is glad to be able to send a delegation of observers to Pantocratoria so that she and her peoples may as well benefit from an unspoilt democratic process.

OOC: Can I get some UN members volunteer to send some electoral scrutineers along to observe the whole voting and vote counting process?

The Confederated City States of Mikitivity would be willing to send a small team (5 to 10 volunteers) of elections officials to the Pantocratorian elections on the condition that they may report first to both our governments on what they observed, and then after filling their report, both governments will have the opportunity to respond before the report is made available to the public of both nations.

Would this be acceptable?

Inspectors from the Constitutional Monarchy of Fass have arrived and have been sent to churches all over the Empire to observe the electoral process, as well as to the Congregation for the Protection of the Creed, to observe the overall process.

His Majesty thanks both the inspectors themselves and their government for sending them. He hopes that their presence will allay the fears of those who have expressed doubt in Pantocratoria's electoral system.

Inspectors have also arrived from the Confederated City States of Mikitivity, and have been similarly dispatched to both churches across the Empire and the Congregation for the Protection of the Creed to oversee the whole process.

Election inspectors from Tanah Burung would be ready and willing to observe the voting, if they are acceptable for this role.

OOC: For the record, I considered applying but decided it would probably not be taken in good faith \^_^/;;;;

IC:
With election day approaching, the AIVD took the task of 'passive monitoring' onto itself. The Pantocratoria specialist took to reading the papers, watching relevant TV programmes and listening to talk radio. Aaah, the life of a spy.

Election inspectors from Tanah Burung would be ready and willing to observe the voting, if they are acceptable for this role.

Tanah Burung's inspectors would be most welcome.

Polls close in about 1.5 hours! Last call for votes!

As polls close, Evensong Mass is said, and then the churches across the entire Empire are closed to the public. Electoral volunteers, priests, UN electoral inspectors, and inspectors from the Congregation for the Protection of the Creed pour over every ballot, counting the votes. The vote counting will go long into the night, and many Imperial citizens will be glued to their television sets, watching the election coverage as the composition of the next Imperial Parliament is decided.

RESULTS ARE IN

The Composition of the One Hundred and Seventh Imperial Parliament

Total Seats: 540
Seats needed for a majority: 271

Pantocratoria First Party: 15
Loyal Christian Front: 162
Pantocratoria Socialist Alliance: 269
Republican Party: 0
Constantinople Party: 94


The Primary Vote (the number of first preference votes cast for each party)

Pantocratoria First Party: 255,674,909
Loyal Christian Front: 300,736,728
Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance: 530,006,764
Republican Party: 55,314,799
Constantinople Party: 109,688,441

TOTAL NUMBER OF FORMAL VOTES CAST: 1,251,421,641

Telegram me for the program sourcecode!

OOC: So your nations people suddenly switched from fundamentalist Christian to radical commie? 0_o. I'd say the source code is a bit... variable. But that is just me. *gulp*

OOC: So your nations people suddenly switched from fundamentalist Christian to radical commie? 0_o. I'd say the source code is a bit... variable. But that is just me. *gulp*

OOC: The clincher is that this is the first election in which political parties which weren't founded by members of the Imperial family or the nobility have been allowed to run. Plus, the PSA is hardly a "radical commie" party, they came short of a majority in the Parliament, and were 200,000,000 short of half the primary votes cast. Additionally, my code is heavily influenced by people's votes in the poll in this thread. The PSA had a good 7 point advantage over the LCF.

This is essentially the first truly free election in Pantocratorian history. It is natural that it produces a radically different Imperial Parliament than previous elections - remember it was only two elections ago that the United Christian Front won every seat. That shouldn't suggest that a few years Pantocratorians were unanimously conservative voters - it should suggest that a few years ago the system was fundamentally flawed.

The Imperial Broadcasting Corporation's election coverage had included members of each political party in a panel discussion with journalists, reacting to the results in each seat as they came in. When the early results from the Greek-speaking regions came in overwhelmingly for the Constantinople Party, nobody was surprised. The first real surprise came from vote counting in New Rome, which went overwhelmingly against the Pantocratoria First Party, which lost seats left and right to the Loyal Christian Front and Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance. The trend continued - the LCF and PSA gained ground while the Government's vote collapsed.

"The Socialists are gaining ground in Isakiosopolis, which is a region which went overwhelmingly for the Government at the last election." said Guillame d'Albret, the IBC's chief electoral analyst. "It looks like the Loyal Christian Front is going to really struggle to win enough seats to lead a credible.... stand-by, we're receiving word that Her Imperial Highness the Imperial Chancellor has arrived at the Demetrine Palace in New Rome, where the Pantocratoria First Party has gathered to watch the election coverage."

The panel turned to watch a plasma television which lowered behind them with live pictures from the Demetrine Palace. The IBC's broadcast switched to those pictures.

The crowd of Pantocratoria First Party MPs and ordinary party members looked crestfallen, as they watched the Pantocratorian National News coverage of the election on a big screen projection in the palace's great hall. Heralds stepped into the room by the doors built into the back wall, and started playing trumpets, quieting the buzz of the crowd. Somebody muted the PNN coverage.

"Her Imperial Highness the Right Honourable the Imperial Chancellor, the Most Pious Princess Irene!" proclaimed the herald, which provoked the crowd to stand and start clapping as their equally crest fallen leader entered the hall and headed to the podium.

The usually stern Irene forced herself to smile weakly in appreciation for her party's display of loyalty as she reached the podium. Such a rare soft expression evoked even louder clapping from the party.

"My friends...." she said, her usual stern expression slowly returning. "My friends, we have come far together. We have been a good Government. I would go as far as to say that we have been the best Government in the Empire's long history. I would like to thank you all for your loyalty, and your efforts. My friends, let me speak frankly. This country is heading in the wrong direction. It is heading down the false path which has lead so many great nations to ruin."

"Democraticisation is another word for mob rule! It is a substitution of populist sentiment for responsible decision making based on objective evaluation of what is in the best interests of the State." she declared boldly. "Let those who abused the privilege granted them by His Majesty so poorly remember this warning! Give a churl rule and thereby he will not be sufficed! He will, out of envy, tear down the accomplishments of his betters, and drag that which he rules down to the level of the mud and muck in which he was born!"

"Oh wretched Pantocratoria! Woe is thee!" Irene declared. "You may not realise it now but you have made a sorry mistake today, a mistake which will cost you dearly! All right thinking men and women can do for the Empire now is pray. And my friends, all I can now do for you is pray. I feel I am left with no choice but to resign the leadership of the Pantocratoria First Party, and as a consequence, to resign the office of Imperial Chancellor."

"Thank you again, my loyal friends, and to those rare voters, who put the best interests of Pantocratoria first on their ballots, watching at home. I thank you, I pray for you, and I bid you adieu." Irene says, concluding. "As for the rest of you, you traitors who have so badly betrayed the Empire, you will regret your decision today, and you deserve everything you've now brought upon yourselves!"

The stunned crowd gives a weak clap for Princess Irene as she spins around, and walks out the hall's huge, ornate doors as the coverage ends.

Watching the live coverage in his official residence, Ambassador Rev. Jacob Donnelly turned to his wife. "A tad arrogant, even for Princess Irene, don't you think?"

Mrs. Donnelly shrugged. "It's been a very bad day for her, Jacob. Don't forget your compassion..."

"Oh, I feel for her on a human level, certainly. But," the reverend sighed, "this is pretty much why she did this poorly." The ambassador turned to the man sharing the private sitting room with him and his wife. "Frank, what do you think?"

Dr. Frank Ginkel, the political counsellor of the Excalbian embassy, arched an eyebrow. "Well, Ambassador, this will cause quite a shake up in Pantocratorian politics. The LCF is in a far weaker positon than we expected. They'll be hard pressed to form a governing coalition. With the PFP and the CP, they would barely make the 271 needed for a majority. I fear we may be looking at a socialist-leaning government here."

As Dr. Ginkel finished speaking the phone next to the ambassador rang.

"I can guess who that is..." Rev. Donnelly picked up the phone. "Hello?"

"Ambassador Donnelly?"

"Yes."

"Please hold for the Minister of State."

"Reverend?"

"Yes, Minister Cummings. I suppose you've seen the news, sir..."

"Yes. And so has the Imperial Chancellor. And His Imperial Majesty. So, what do we do now?"

"Well, sir, a coaliton of the LCF, PFP and CP is certainly still on the table and would give us a government friendly to Excalbia..."

"Yes, it could, but that is too slim a possibility for comfort. We need to think about additional steps..."

(from Trouw)

Halsema's 'reality check' on Pantocratoria gets frosty reception in The Hague

THE HAGUE - KGP Green opposition leader Femke Halsema’s call for Knootoss to wake up to the reality of the Socialist Party’s election as the biggest party in Pantocratoria gained a frosty reception in The Hague today. In a newspaper interview, Halsema accused the government of being in a “state of denial” over the Pantocratorian election result and urged them to forge closer relations with any socialist-leaning government, particularly over the issue of ending the boycott by pulling out of Tanah Burung.

But SLP foreign minister Hans Van Mierlo countered that the DDR needed to reinforce its own unity in a world which he said was increasingly divided. While Halsema claimed to have detected a readiness among her Knootian colleagues to rebuild bridges with any new government, Mr Van Mierlo pointedly stressed the need to develop a stronger diplomatic unity with standing allies.

“Knootoss today has more than ever the need, the necessity, to reinforce itself and its alliances,” he said. “That is the foreign policy goal in a world that is more divided than ever.”

Mr Van Mierlo’s comments will keep the heat up on a simmering row over Tanah Burung, following the staunch opposition of Knootian opposition parties, KGP and the Knootian Socialist Party to the conflict in Tanah Burung. It had been thought likely that a Pantocratoria First Party victory might have cleared the way for the two nations to take a more active role in cooperating, possibly even ending the boycott. But this seems a remote prospect following the election of Socialists and other parties who supported the boycott. [Conservative RCPK] Prime Minister nos Círdan made clear that there was an onus on the new Pantocratorian government to make overtures to Knootoss.

“I really hope, after the election, that any new government will invest in good relations with the DDR,” she said. “We have shared responsibility on worldwide issues.”

(ooc: just waiting for Princess Irene to add: "I'll get you, and your little dog Toto too!")

A personal account of the elections from a Burungi observer:

You could feel change in the air. As people from all walks of life trooped to the polling stations, you could tell that this year, something was different. Old women lined up for hours for the chance to cast a ballot in this epochal election. Everyone wanted to be a part of it.

The issue of who won is not so important, in the big picture. That picture shows the thirst for democracy of the people of Pantocratoria. They have seized the opportunity presented by their emperor for change and for a real choice: something they have never really had before, but something (the results how) they have been wanting for a long time.

All in all, this election was a far cry from others i've monitored in wartorn countries emerging from dictatorship. Pantocratoria was not like that. There was no real sign of vote-rigging, no attempts to bully and intimidate voters. The innovative transferable vote seems to have worked well, delivering a parliament which balances diversity of views with the prospect for a stable majority coalition to emerge. People were happy enough to see foreign observers, but they were never in any doubt that this was their own election. A path to democracy has been blazed here today.

OOC: I should note that I originally intended to post the seat by seat results, but with 540 seats, my program's output ran in excess of my Terminal's buffer, and I didn't want to run it again (I wouldn't want to pick and choose election results after all). But as I watched the seat by seat results, the majority of Loyal Christian Front seats won were off Pantocratoria First Party preferences, and the vast majority of Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance seats were won by the primary vote, or off Constantinople Party preferences (since these were totally random instead of 20% random, 80% off the how to vote card). The preference deals were quite disadvantageous to the PSA on a seat by seat basis, but looking at the overall results, they still have nearly half the seats despite having 100,000,000 votes less than half, so they're not in too much of a position to complain! That was the only interesting part of the program's output which wasn't posted here.

IC:

IBC is now broadcasting from the Loyal Christian Front's party at the Drakopolis Palace in Pantocratoria's third largest city.

The crowd assembled in the palace's ballroom looks worried but excited. Prince Constantine, the Emperor's second eldest child, has just finished speaking from the podium. Prince Basil enters the ballroom from the cloakroom which had been serving as a makeshift office to the cheers of the assembled party members and the blare of herald's trumpets. He smiles and waves, stopping to shake hands, to congratulate returned MPs, to commiserate with MPs who lost their seats, and to thank rank and file members who spent the day handing out how to vote cards in Drakopolis on his way to the stage. He reached the podium and the crowd fell silent.

"Friends," he began. "The Socialist Alliance has been stopped at two-hundred and sixty-nine seats, two seats short of forming government!"

The crowd cheers wildly.

"We are now confident that the preference flow in the south is such that they will be unable to pick up anymore seats there tonight, so there will be no Socialist majority government." Basil explained. "But neither is there a Loyal Christian Front majority. We have won 150, perhaps as much as 162, seats. We are the largest non-socialist party in the house. If we are to form the next Imperial Government, we will need support from both the Constantinople Party, and from Pantocratoria First."

The crowd was fairly silent as Basil explained what needed to happen for them to form Government.

"We must now reach out to our former opponents. We will have to make concessions. I hope you all know that I never intend to betray the principles of the Loyal Christian Front! But if we are to form a coalition government, we may have to compromise on some policies. I am willing to make those compromises, I am willing to do whatever it takes to give Pantocratoria a coalition government lead by the Loyal Christian Front!" Basil proclaimed.

The crowd cheered at the prospect, although not unreservedly so.

"I will be in touch with Monsieur Bolkus of the Constantinople Party, and when the Pantocratoria First Party elects a new leader, I will be in touch with that leader. The fight to form the next Imperial Government is not over yet! Thankyou so much for your support! Without your efforts, we would not be in the position we are currently in to even attempt to form a coalition government." Basil said, congratulating the party. "We have done well, we have fought hard, and we have survived in this new electoral environment. The Pantocratorian people have demonstrated that the values of the Loyal Christian Front still resonate with them. They have shown us that the Loyal Christian Front has a future even as His Majesty's reforms have dashed the previous government's electoral hopes. No matter what happens at the negotiating tables tomorrow and in subsequent days, I ask you all to remember that! Remember that we have a future! Remember that the Loyal Christian Front's universal message and platform still touches the heart of every Imperial citizen! And remember that we're here for the long haul! Thank you all, goodnight, and God bless!"

The crowd applauded their leader as he descended from the stage and embraced his family, who were waiting for him at the steps. Prince Constantine, now standing with his recently returned sister Princess Anna, walked over to join them, and the IBC's feed fades to black with this segment of the Imperial Family basking in the affection of the assembled Loyal Christian Front party members and, of course, each other.

The Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance was celebrating in the Isaac V Theatre, in New Rome. Dr Thibault Drapeur was making his way through the crowd, shaking the hands and slapping the backs of the party members, trade unionists, and supporters, as he approached the stage. He looked exuberant. He walked up the steps to the cheers of his supporters, and he walked straight to the podium.

"Two hundred and sixty nine seats!" he shouted to the cheers of the crowd. "Two hundred and sixty nine seats, two hundred and sixty nine messages to the old guard that the workers of Pantocratoria finally have a voice! Thank you, all of you, for your hard work, your sweat, your labour, thank you for this result. And to the people of Pantocratoria, thank you! We will work hard to earn the trust you have shown in us tonight!"

The crowd was allowed to cheer on for half a minute, the IBC cameras panning over the assembled supporters.

"And yet my friends, we are two seats short of forming a majority in our own right. So I must now turn to the other parties, especially to the Constantinople Party, and ask for their support in forming a government with us. The voters of Pantocratoria have overwhelmingly given the Socialist Alliance a mandate to rule. I ask you to obey their will, to listen to their voice, and to join behind us in forming the government the people want and need!" Drapeur appealed. "We are prepared to negotiate on some policy issues. The PSA is here, and we're not going away. My friends, I believe we WILL be forming the next Imperial Government. Nobody can ignore the diplomatic mandate with which we've been entrusted, a mandate which we will work hard to earn! Thank you all! This result is a victory for us all, but first and foremost for the workers of Pantocratoria!"

The crowd cheered as the IBC coverage ended.

"Oi! Workens o' th' Panstycransty unity-ite!" screamed Frothywats Bumblestew, socialist of the highest calibur. He savored his pretzel, flavored not only with crystals of NaCl (which is, of course, an ionic compound) but also with victory. "Ack! This vic'try tastes like napalm!" Those around him didn't understand his allusion to "Apocalypse Now," but that was okay, because they'd won.

Suddenly, several B-52's were heard and seen overhead--dozens and dozens, waves upon waves. "Not a-gains!" he cried, but it was too late.

"Oi! Workens o' th' Panstycransty unity-ite!" screamed Frothywats Bumblestew, socialist of the highest calibur. He savored his pretzel, flavored not only with crystals of NaCl (which is, of course, an ionic compound) but also with victory. "Ack! This vic'try tastes like napalm!" Those around him didn't understand his allusion to "Full Metal Jacket," but that was okay, because they'd won.

Suddenly, several B-52's were heard and seen overhead--dozens and dozens, waves upon waves. "Not a-gains!" he cried, but it was too late.

OOC: O......K......

PANTOCRATORIA FIRST PARTY ELECTS NEW LEADER

The new parliamentary Pantocratoria First Party met today in the governmental offices of the Palace of the Imperial Parliament to elect a new leader, after Princess Irene's resignation last night.

The two contenders were former Deputy Chancellor and Treasurer, Isaac Comnenus and former Minister for Cultural Development, Jean Gallipolitano. Out of the 11 sitting PFP members (Princess Irene declined to vote), 7 voted for Comnenus and 4 voted for Gallipolitano, making Isaac Comnenus the new leader of the Pantocratoria First Party.

Prince Basil expressed his approval of the vote, referring to the time Comnenus served in the United Christian Front cabinet, and saying that he would be happy to work with Comnenus again.

Some Loyal Christian Front back-benchers labelled Comnenus a "treacherous rat" for the way he orchestrated much of the rebellion against Prince Basil in the UCF which led to the formation of the Pantocratoria First Party. One anonymous backbencher indicated he would rather be in opposition than to be in coalition with a Comnenus-led PFP.

OOC: O......K......


((OOC: Translation: Ignore?))

The Imperial Chancery, Citadel Mount

Lady Christina Freedman looked strangely tired as she sat, almost slumped to one side, in her chair at the head of the large, polished wooden table. Few, if any, had ever seen the Imperial Chancellor look fatigued, much less worn out. But now, after a number of crises, she looked just that - worn out.

"So, moving on to the situation in Pantocratoria. Minister Cummings?"

"Yes, my Lady," the rotund Minister of State brushed at his vested girth. "I've spoken with Ambassador Donnelly. The news is far from good, but also far from disastrous. The PSP has a solid plurality, but are two seats short of forming a majority government. They are looking to the Constantinople Party to give them a majority and, fortunately for us, the CP does support the alliance. How hard they will fight for it, though, we don't know. The LCF could, of course, form a government by joining with the PFP and the CP. However, there is still a lot of bad blood towards the PFP on the part of some of the LCF's backbenchers. So, it is hard to say which way the wind will blow at this point."

"What are we doing to, um, exert some influence, Albert?" Lord John Thorne, the aged Minister of Defence asked weakly.

"Ambassador Donnelly is calling the leader of the CP today to seek a luncheon or dinner appointment to discuss the alliance. (OOC: Consider this a phone call to the CP leadership...) But, we must be careful not to be seen as trying to tip the balance, my Lord."

"At least not openly, eh, Minister?" Lord James Reynolds, Director of Imperial Intelligence, sat at the far corner of the cabinet table combing his beard with his fingers.

"Surely you don't suggest that we are covertly trying to interfere in Pantocratoria's affairs, Lord James?" Lady Gwyneth Hapsgaard, the Minister of Justice, shot the Intelligence chief a sharp look.

"No, no. Not quite anyway. But, please, Lady Gwyneth, don't be so naive as to think that friends do not try to make their influence felt in each other's governments - both overtly and covertly."

"Just what do you have in mind, Lord James?" Cummings asked.

"We are trying to discover whether there is any useful information on any of the party leaders that be persuasive in some form or another, Minister."

"Lord James," the Chancellor said wearily, "seeking information, even embarassing information, is certainly normal activity for an intelligence agency. However, do not, and let me be clear," the Chancellor's voice took on renewed strength as she spoke, "this is an order being given you with the full support of the Sword behind me, do not attempt to use any information you acquire to influence any party in Pantocratoria to take up any position or join or fail to join any coalition. Is that clear?"

"Yes, my Lady," Lord James said chastened.

"Very well. Moving on the Confederation. And here, Lord James, is a problem you may tackle with greater discretion..."

At a joint press conference in the Imperial Parliament's press gallery, Prince Basil sat next to Isaac Comnenus. During the day, a majority vote in each party's caucas had seen the Pantocratoria First Party and Loyal Christian Front agree to seek coalition government together.

Basil leaned into the microphone.

"I'll just say a few things and then you may ask some questions. After a long day at the negotiating table and in the party room, the Loyal Christian Front and the Pantocratoria First Party have agreed to enter a coalition, pending the Constantinople Party joining that same coalition." Basil explained as the cameras flashed. "As a condition of that coalition, it was agreed to that the Pantocratoria First Party would receive at least one position in the Imperial Cabinet. Monsieur Comnenus would be in that position, continuing in his role as Treasurer. It was also agreed that the leader of the Loyal Christian Front would be the leader of the coalition for the life of the next Imperial Government. Are there any questions?"

There was a buzz of "Your Highness"es and "Monsieur Comnenus"es. Basil pointed to a journalist in the front.

"Your Imperial Highness," started the journo. "Will the LCF and PFP be able to work together after the bitterness of the UCF's collapse, a collapse which Monsieur Comnenus helped orchestrate?"

"Monsieur Comnenus and I have discussed this matter at length, and we are both of us willing to put it behind us for the sake of the Empire." replied the Prince.

"Your Highness, you say that the coalition is contingent on the Constantinople Party joining... does that mean that the Constantinople Party hasn't agreed to join yet?"

"I'll answer that one." says Comnenus. "That is correct. We're optimistic about the Constantinople Party joining. The Socialists would be a disaster for Pantocratoria, and if they think about it, I'm sure they'll realise that a coalition of the LCF, PFP and themselves is the only way forward for the Empire."

***

The Constantinople Party head quarters was an unimpressive office building in Drakopolis, the largest Greek speaking city in the Empire, although you wouldn't know that the bulk of the population only spoke Greek to look at the road signs or business signs, or at the newspapers available. It was all in French. It was as if the Greek language was proscribed - it wasn't visible anywhere, except outside that one office block. The sign stated "???????????????? ?????". No French translation was offered.

Ambassador Donnelly found that by and large the people inside spoke French, to varying degrees, but that they obviously took no pleasure in doing so. He was ushered into a conference room in which sat nobody but Spiro Bolkus, the leader, and Manuel Sebasto, the deputy leader. They greeted him in Greek and invited him to sit.

Drakopolis, Pantocratoria

Ambassador Rev. Jacob Donnelly bowed slightly and nodded his head. He returned Bolkus’ and Sebasto’s greetings in his basic Foreign Service Academy Greek. “καλή μέρα , κύριος. ευχαριστώ για συνάντηση με εμένα.”

Donnelly took the offered chair. In halting Greek he said, “Mr. Bolkus, let me offer you my congratulations on your good showing in the elections.” Donnelly smiled as he spoke. “Those of us following the Pantocratorian elections have been impressed by your campaign.

“You have certainly put the Constantinople Party in the center of Pantocratorian politics. I understand both the PSP and LCF-PFP coalition are courting you as a coalition partner. It must bring a measure of satisfaction to know that your agenda is almost certain to be part of the next government’s agenda.”

New Triancian Wire Service

JOSEPH II FEDERAL DISTRICIT

In a suprisingly warm day at the J2FD Presidential Palace, President Stanton held a press conference that ultimatily went toward discussion of the resualts of the recent Pantocratorian elections.

"I think it is excellent, just excellent, that Pantocratoria has gone the way of Triancia, and diluted their monarchy with the tenets of democratic government. This administration looks forward to discussing closer diplomatic ties with what government may arise there." The President stated.

President Stanton gave a phone call early this morning to the new minority leader, Dr. Thibault Drapeur of the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance, congraulating him on his party's stunning showing in the polls.

Certain other developments, however, belay a wariness in the developments of Pantocratorian government. The Federal Kingdom's embassy in New Rome has added a platoon of fifty Royal Triancian Marines to it's defense contigent, doubling the size of the garrison there, Defense Department officials confrimed yesterday. A highly-ranked source in the Department stated, on condition of anominity, that the Administration was worried about any hostilites that could erupt, should the ruling party not step down.

Drakopolis, Pantocratoria

Ambassador Rev. Jacob Donnelly bowed slightly and nodded his head. He returned Bolkus’ and Sebasto’s greetings in his basic Foreign Service Academy Greek. “???? ???? , ??????. ????????? ??? ????????? ?? ?????.”

Donnelly took the offered chair. In halting Greek he said, “Mr. Bolkus, let me offer you my congratulations on your good showing in the elections.” Donnelly smiled as he spoke. “Those of us following the Pantocratorian elections have been impressed by your campaign.

“You have certainly put the Constantinople Party in the center of Pantocratorian politics. I understand both the PSP and LCF-PFP coalition are courting you as a coalition partner. It must bring a measure of satisfaction to know that your agenda is almost certain to be part of the next government’s agenda.”

"It certainly is. Thankyou very much for saying so, Reverend." said Sebasto. "We owe our success to grassroots support. We don't have the wealthy donors the LCF and PFP have, and we didn't have a group of large organisations capable of pooling together large amounts of money like the PSA had. We really do owe our success, more so than any other party I think, to our supporters. We knew we couldn't form government by ourselves, but we're very happy to be where we are now."

"Yes, we're very well placed to deliver on our agenda." said Bolkus. "And speaking of agendas, not that I don't enjoy being visited by the Empire's closest ally's ambassador, but I take it that you have an agenda here as well, Reverend? There is nothing wrong with that. You must want something from us, and we would like your support and stamp of approval as the Excalbian ambassador. So let's talk shop, eh?"

"I think you know that we have a pro-Excalbian Alliance position, Ambassador." said Sebasto. "But I'm guessing you're not sure whether that position will be one of the items on our core policy platform which we would insist any potential coalition partner adopt in order to receive our support. Have I guessed right, Reverend?"

New Triancian Wire Service

JOSEPH II FEDERAL DISTRICIT

In a suprisingly warm day at the J2FD Presidential Palace, President Stanton held a press conference that ultimatily went toward discussion of the resualts of the recent Pantocratorian elections.

"I think it is excellent, just excellent, that Pantocratoria has gone the way of Triancia, and diluted their monarchy with the tenets of democratic government. This administration looks forward to discussing closer diplomatic ties with what government may arise there." The President stated.

President Stanton gave a phone call early this morning to the new minority leader, Dr. Thibault Drapeur of the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance, congraulating him on his party's stunning showing in the polls.

Certain other developments, however, belay a wariness in the developments of Pantocratorian government. The Federal Kingdom's embassy in New Rome has added a platoon of fifty Royal Triancian Marines to it's defense contigent, doubling the size of the garrison there, Defense Department officials confrimed yesterday. A highly-ranked source in the Department stated, on condition of anominity, that the Administration was worried about any hostilites that could erupt, should the ruling party not step down.

Drapeur's end of the phone conversation went like this.

"Thankyou, President Stanton. I appreciate your congratulations and support. We haven't yet formed government, but I am sure that the Constantinople Party will not ignore the mandate given to us by the Pantocratorian people, and will support us. I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with your government, monsieur."

"It certainly is. Thankyou very much for saying so, Reverend." said Sebasto. "We owe our success to grassroots support. We don't have the wealthy donors the LCF and PFP have, and we didn't have a group of large organisations capable of pooling together large amounts of money like the PSA had. We really do owe our success, more so than any other party I think, to our supporters. We knew we couldn't form government by ourselves, but we're very happy to be where we are now."

"Yes, we're very well placed to deliver on our agenda." said Bolkus. "And speaking of agendas, not that I don't enjoy being visited by the Empire's closest ally's ambassador, but I take it that you have an agenda here as well, Reverend? There is nothing wrong with that. You must want something from us, and we would like your support and stamp of approval as the Excalbian ambassador. So let's talk shop, eh?"

"I think you know that we have a pro-Excalbian Alliance position, Ambassador." said Sebasto. "But I'm guessing you're not sure whether that position will be one of the items on our core policy platform which we would insist any potential coalition partner adopt in order to receive our support. Have I guessed right, Reverend?"

Ambassador Rev. Donnelly smiled and leaned back in his chair. “You have been refreshingly direct and to the point, gentlemen. So, allow me to reply in kind.” Donnelly steepled his fingers and rested his hands across his chest.

“The Holy Empire has been very… pleased to note your strong endorsement of Alliance between Excalbia and Pantocratoria during the campaign. We believe that the Alliance has been a stabilizing influence through out this part of the world. We also believe that the expansion and modernization of the Pantocratorian military – combined with Pantocratoria’s willingness to use it when necessary – has contributed to international stability.”

Donnelly leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. “Frankly, there is much we find… uncomfortable about the PSP’s agenda. However, the gravest problem, from our perspective, is their stated intention to nullify the Alliance and slash the size of your military. Our concern is that these actions could destabilize not only the Pantocratorian Archipelago and the Excalbian Isles, but even the Storn Archipelago and the entire Northern Atlantic. Beyond that, the loss of Pantocratoria’s efforts in armed peace-keeping would adversely affect much of the world.”

Donnelly shifted in his seat. “To continue speaking frankly, the point of my trip is, as Mr. Sebasto said, to learn just where the Alliance stands on your priorities. You were very clear during the campaign that the liberation of Constantinople was your primary goal and that just about everything else was open to compromise, if a potential coalition partner would embrace that goal.”

“So,” Donnelly leaned back, “where do we stand with you, gentlemen?”

Sebasto shot a look to Bolkus.

"Constantinople is just rhetoric, Reverend." he said. "It burns in the consciousness of the people in the old countryside, everyone who learned to speak Greek before they learned to speak French, they all yearn for the stories they were told about the foundation of their nation to mean something again. They need a government to tell them that their traditions matter again more than they need a government to wade into a war with the Turks."

"Which isn't to rule it out, naturally." says Bolkus. "Only that it is more a... long term goal. Our most important policies are about giving our voters back their dignity - restoring their mother tongue to them, and dismantling the policy structure which has made them feel like second class citizens in their own country. We are looking for a coalition partner who will endorse that agenda. As for Constantinople, they must reaffirm the objectives of Pantocratoria's founders by committing, in the long term, to its liberation."

"We agree with you, Reverend, that a significant drop in military spending would be problematic. We also agree that it would be poorly advised to withdraw from the Excalbian Alliance." said Sebasto. "To form a coalition with us, our core platform must be endorsed, and some gestures will have to be made as per our stance on the alliance."

In a speech on the DotF network and Jeruselem Government News TV stations, the acting Foreign Minister Lord Sebastian congratuated Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance on it's victory in Pantocratoria elections and pledged to work with them for greater good of Pantocratoria and Jeruselem relations and reaffirmed the strength of the alliance.

...

In the background activity, the Jeruselem Inquisition were cleaning out the archives to find information about the new members of the Pantocratoria government and who might be the most sympathetic to the Jeruselem government's interests.

Aiwyn flips through the papers on the desk, looking over reports from around the world. Finding one sheet, she smiles softly to herself. "Wonderful." The Gwydion hits the button on her communications panel, getting her some human flunky in communications. "Would you be a dear and get me in touch with Dr. Drapeur in Pantocratoria? Thanks."

The technician makes the connections, sending a signal half-way around the world. Assuming the phone is answered by one of Drapeur's workers, the man speaks simply. "Hello. This is Mark Williams in the Imperial Palace in Mists. Her Imperial Majesty would like to speak to Dr. Drapeur."

Dr Drapeur picked up the phone in his office.

"This is Thibault Drapeur. Am I speaking to Her Majesty?" he asked.

Imperial Post, 29 November

PRESSURE MOUNTING ON CONSTANTINOPLE PARTY TO MAKE DECISION

Pressure is mounting on the leader of the Constantinople Party, Spiro Bolkus, to make his decision regarding with which party, if any, the Constantinople Party intends to form a coalition.

The Emperor has issued the appropriate writs to summon the Imperial Parliament for the feastday of Saint Martin, December the first. The first action of a new Imperial Parliament is to make a division to form the new Imperial Government. If that division is inconclusive, then the decision about how to proceed will be in the Emperor's hands - he might dissolve the parliament again, or he might order a government to be formed regardless (a scenario generally thought to favour the Loyal Christian Front, if only for the short-term).

With just a few days until the Imperial Parliament is due to meet, the decision rests entirely on Bolkus' shoulders.

"We will make a decision in time. That is all I am willing to say at this point." said the Constantinople Party Leader.

Aiwyn smiles a little. "Yes you are, doctor. We simply wished to congratulate you on your victory. While we have no formal relationship with your nation, the election has been widely reported here."

Sebasto shot a look to Bolkus.

"Constantinople is just rhetoric, Reverend." he said. "It burns in the consciousness of the people in the old countryside, everyone who learned to speak Greek before they learned to speak French, they all yearn for the stories they were told about the foundation of their nation to mean something again. They need a government to tell them that their traditions matter again more than they need a government to wade into a war with the Turks."

"Which isn't to rule it out, naturally." says Bolkus. "Only that it is more a... long term goal. Our most important policies are about giving our voters back their dignity - restoring their mother tongue to them, and dismantling the policy structure which has made them feel like second class citizens in their own country. We are looking for a coalition partner who will endorse that agenda. As for Constantinople, they must reaffirm the objectives of Pantocratoria's founders by committing, in the long term, to its liberation."

"We agree with you, Reverend, that a significant drop in military spending would be problematic. We also agree that it would be poorly advised to withdraw from the Excalbian Alliance." said Sebasto. "To form a coalition with us, our core platform must be endorsed, and some gestures will have to be made as per our stance on the alliance."

Ambassador Rev. Donnelly forced a smile. “Again, gentlemen, you are refreshingly direct and honest.” And, he added silently, remarkably cynical.

“I certainly take your point,” the ambassador said, “about the… ah… role of Constantinople in your campaign. And, I appreciate your stand on the Alliance. But, may I ask, Mr. Sebasto, when you say that any coalition partner must make – some gesture – towards your stand on the Alliance, exactly what kind of gesture are you looking for? And do you think the PSP is prepared to make such a gesture?”

Ambassador Rev. Donnelly forced a smile. “Again, gentlemen, you are refreshingly direct and honest.” And, he added silently, remarkably cynical.

“I certainly take your point,” the ambassador said, “about the… ah… role of Constantinople in your campaign. And, I appreciate your stand on the Alliance. But, may I ask, Mr. Sebasto, when you say that any coalition partner must make – some gesture – towards your stand on the Alliance, exactly what kind of gesture are you looking for? And do you think the PSP is prepared to make such a gesture?”

"Perhaps they would be willing to maintain certain alliances in exchange for being able to withdraw from others. Beyond that, you would have to ask Drapeur, Reverend." replies Sebasto.

"I don't like to rush things at all, Ambassador, but as you can imagine we've several very important meetings to attend in order to come to a decision before the parliament is recalled." says Bolkus. "Thankyou so much for your kind congratulations, and for coming to see us. I do hope that you will not be a stranger."

Aiwyn smiles a little. "Yes you are, doctor. We simply wished to congratulate you on your victory. While we have no formal relationship with your nation, the election has been widely reported here."

"Thankyou, Your Majesty." says Drapeur. "But I'm afraid it isn't over yet. We may have won the most seats and the most votes, but we came two seats short of a parliamentary majority. That means we will need to form a coalition with the Constantinople Party in order to form a government. Your Majesty can rest assured that I am making all appropriate efforts to form such a coalition, and assuming I succeed, I look forward to establishing formal relations with your government."

Aiwyn glances again at the paper, nodding to herself. "You're lucky to have a simple two party coalition. Our Parliament needed a rather unwieldly five party's to form a government and that coalition is hardly a voting block." She laughs liltingly. "Still, we wished to congratulate you on winning the greatest share of the vote. We look forward to establishing relations. We do wish you luck in your parliamentary proceedings."

Aiwyn glances again at the paper, nodding to herself. "You're lucky to have a simple two party coalition. Our Parliament needed a rather unwieldly five party's to form a government and that coalition is hardly a voting block." She laughs liltingly. "Still, we wished to congratulate you on winning the greatest share of the vote. We look forward to establishing relations. We do wish you luck in your parliamentary proceedings."

"Thankyou, Your Majesty." said Drapeur, hanging up the phone. He leaned back in his chair and smiled. So far he had been congratulated by several dozen heads of state. If foreign leaders could see it, surely so could the Constantinople Party - the PSA had been given a mandate by the people, and must be allowed to form government!

OOC: Last chance to interfere in the selection of the new government before the Parliament is recalled! You have about 1 hour to meddle!

As Reverend Donnelly left the meeting room in which he met Bolkus and Sebasto, he might have been a little shocked to virtually run right into Dr Thibault Drapeur and his deputy leader Isabelle Folquet.

"Reverend, nice to see you." says Drapeur in polite acknowledgement on his way into the meeting room.

"We look forward to working with you in Government." added Folquet with a smirk.

The two were inside the meeting room and the door slammed shut after just a few moments. The Excalbian Ambassador might be forgiven for thinking he had dreamed it.

Imperial Post, 1 December
SOCIALIST GOVERNMENT
Constantinople Party leader, Spiro Bolkus, announced this morning that in today's sitting of the Imperial Parliament, the Constantinople Party would vote with the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance in the division of the house to form the new Imperial Government.

"We don't want to throw around the word coalition. We will still be fighting for the objectives of our constituents. We are two very different parties. If the PSA wants our continued support, they will have to agree to our policies to improve the lives of our constituents. And if Dr Drapeur doesn't live up to his word, we will cross the house and side with the LCF and PFP!" said Bolkus.

Dr Drapeur and Prince Basil both declined to comment.

Jeruselem Government News

Pantocratoria sees red

Constantinople Party would vote with the Pantocratorian Socialist Alliance in the division of the house to form the new Imperial Government. This means the old government will effectively be replaced with socialist government but the balance of power will be moderated by the actions of the Constantinople Party. It is no secret the Jeruselem government's bias has always been with the previous governmment and this will affect how Pantocratorian/Jeruselem relations work in the future.

The recent abortive Communist terrorist attacks in the early reign of Queen Mariah I have destroyed any faith in totally trusting communist orientated governments. However the Jeruselem government does not want to interfere with the matters of Pantocratorian government and accepts it is the will of the Pantocratorian people, the PSA have now taken power.

The Parliament is opened:

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=378012