NationStates Jolt Archive

The United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus and Drakonian Imperium

The official title of the Empire now. Ever since they absorbed the Grand Dominion, things had not been the same. Drakonia was a great country, an almost idealistic place too live; and even throughout Tersanctus's era of strife, they had never turned there backs on her. Throughout deporting minority populations, and War-Hungry dictators, they still refused to let her down.

And so it was with great responsibility, and pride, the Empire took on the monumental task of preventing her from falling into civil war. Though considered Imperial Subjects, Drakonia still had her auntonomy, and perhaps one day might even have independence, once more.

But for now the Executor Shijin Kotomari, had a country to run, and Honor too restore.

Where do I begin? he thought to himself.

All the old alliances are dead. The Blood Pact has run dry; we once dragged the waters with the Mighty Reavers themselves in Troy. We held one of the largest summits of Economic Alliances with the heads of the most powerful nations. And were treated as nothing more then pawns in a much larger game of Balance and Power.

Shijin looked over the Great City below him in the morning light. He stood on a veranda in the Executors Mansion; high above the Capital.

Even the great Kungshao, will walk here no more, though I am prophecied to be the re-incarnation of Edmund Dantes, I am not of his blood, the line is broken, and our Destiny is squarely in our hands. I am the Man; not the God. Nor would I wish to be one

He ran his hand smoothly up the sheath of the Katana he always wore at his side. The sword that killed Edmund Dantes by Alkanphel.

And there is nothing I want more, then for my people to be happy and safe. War is call; that I would seldom answer. If it meant we could be happier here, and yet I know that my people would never wish to hold back on an old friend. Backing our allies, is part of who we are. Honor demands it.

He walked back inside and poured himself a cup of coffee, and drank slowly from its warm essence, the liquid seeming to fill something inside his soul.

I think it is time I took a trip....some old nation perhaps, or a new friend...where shall the Emperor, the Executor go?

OOC: Anyone up for a Diploamtic Visit?

OOC: Sure, I'd like to do that

IC: President Gray opened his in box and stared at its contents. One of the disadvantages to being president was the immense amount of daily paperwork he had to read and sign. He took out his pen and began to go through the documents. One particular paper caught his eye. It was a memo stating that the emperor of Tersanctus wanted to hold a diplomatic conference with any nation that is willing to talk. This was a very interesting idea, as Lavaras had very few allies. He decided to call Mr. Steiner, the head of International Relations to help him decide on this.

fifteen minutes later

William Steiner walked into the president's office and sat down. After a brief "good morning" he started the conversation. "Well Mr. President, I thought about it, and I do think that making friends with Tersanctus would be a good idea."

"You're absolutely sure about this?" the president asked. "You don't think this is rushing things? I want to be sure before calling the shot."

Steiner assured him. "Turning this down would not be a good idea at all. We desperately need other countries to know us."

"Alright then. I'll send out a telegram telling the emperor that we're willing to talk."

OOC: Er...isn't he presently on his way to the Federation?
(I, we, haven't dismissed that thread its just we need to make an IC agreement in another thread (of how we are going to deal with you) before that one can move on...sorry about the delay we haven't dropped it it's just on 'standby'...hopefully moving by tommorrow)

Of course all of this can be delt with in terms of flex time anyway.

OOC: I'm in. Feel free to swing by Teatroia for the RP.

IC: Soon after arriving to his office in the morning of what he thought would be a fairly slow day, Teatroia's head of foreign affairs in the Secretariat, Consul Kyrillion Kalajainen received an incoming message from the country of Tersanctus. Even more surprising to him was that it came from the Executor, Shijin Kotomari, himself.

Realizing the opportunity to forge one of the first solid links in Teatroia's history with a foreign power, he immediately called for his secretary. She had barely walked in to the room when he half-yelled, "Debbie, get me an appointment with the First Minister YESTERDAY!" Shellshocked, the secretary went back to her desk to place the call.

*fast forward a few hours*

As Kyrillion walked into the First Minister's Office, he could barely hold back from pouncing on the minister's desk.

"Ky! How are you doing today?" asked Tarin DelTorre, the First Minister and head of state for Teatroia. "Something has you worked up, I can tell!"

"First Minister, we've just received a message from the country of Tersanctus, asking for permission for an official visit to Teatroia, by their Executor, no less. This is an absolutely golden opportunity to establish good ties with another nation. I'd recommend that we jump on the opportunity immediately, before the offer is extended to anyone else."

"We have no reason to suspect anything from the Executor or Tersanctus do we?" asked DelTorre.

"Not at all, sir. We have much to gain and not too much at all to lose."

"In that case, I'll get a reply on the way. Please have your secretary forward the message to me, and I'll send the official reply." With that the First Minister bowed slightly and thanked Kyrillion for his input.

Kyrillion returned with a slightly deeper bow, and left after saying, "Thank you for your time, Minister. We will not regret this."

***Message to the Executor of Tersanctus, Shijin Kotomari:***

Executor Shijin,

Please know that you are most welcome to a visit to our country. An invitation to visit in the near future is hereby extended to yourself and a small delegation, should you choose to have accompaniment. We look forward to meeting with you soon.

First Minister Tarin DelTorre
The Liberated Conservancy of Teatroia

"Athanatos E Psuche"

The Emperor of Der Gotthand sat in his chamber going over the reports his diplomatic and intelligece officers had collected. Among the stack of papers that had been gathered was a note of great interest to the Emperor.

The Executor Shijin Kotomari, ruler of the United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus and Drakonian Imperium, wishes to make a diplomatic visit to any country willing to extend a hand of friendship".

"This is a great opportunity for us..." the Emperor thought to himself. "This is a chance for us to see who can join us in our goal. The goal which my fathers set before me at my birth, and that I have in turned placed at the people's feet."

The Emperor decided to call upon the advice of his subordinate and most trusted trusted friend, Chancellor Mikael Spinzer.

"What do you think of this, dear Mikael?", asked the Emperor, handing him the note. After a moment reading the note, the Chancellor made his reply.

"I believe, my lord, that this is a most god-given opportunity. If we are to succeed in implementing "The Plan" that our fathers set before us, then we must enlist the aid of anyone willing to make an alliance."

"Very well, then," replied the Emperor. "I want you to contact the Executor immediately. Tell him that his presence is most graciously requested in our land, and that our people will be most pleased to interface with a man of such dignity."

"Right away!" replied the Chancellor.

"Ein Reich, Ein Leute, Ein Ziel!"

OOC: You'll probably want to drop by Menelmacar, being as we were in the UE together.

You know your always welcome here.

OOC:

**Big-Huge-Bug Eyed; Confused Emoticon**.

......... Whoa.....I wasnt expecting results like these...all right, gimme a day or two folks...Ill get back to each of you pesonally!!

Why not stop by Tiburon after you're done? We have the greatest hospitality of all nations on the Tiburonese continent.

Executor Kotomari was perplexed.

There were those whom said that Tersanctus' Influence was dead. That we were a ghost inhabiting its own corpse. With all these responses too my request. What are they too say now?

He looked down the list.

Lavaras
Teatroia
Der Gotthand
Menelmacar
Imitora
Neo-Tiburon

One nation in particular caught his eye.

I believe to regain the honor I seek for my people, I owe her an apology first. Thirty years may seem like a long time; but one such as they would not forget such a thing so soon.

He penned a document that would be hand-delivered to each of the responding nations.

Honorable Heads of all Noble Nations,

I apologize that this letter must be generalized and somewhat impersonal, but the message I have is the same for your all. I intend to tour this fine world, and speak with each of you, one at a time. But there is one, that Tersanctus has an old history with, and a wrong was made against them by a former Executor, that it is my responsibility to mend.

I set sail for the Land of Menelmacar, to meet with Empress Sirithil Nos Feanor. Once I have completed my affairs with her, I shall contact the next upon my list, and let my haste complement my arrival.

Until then,

Executor Shijin Kotoamri
Emperor of the The United Empire and Dominion
Sanctus; Tersanctus.

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

0600 Zulu;
Alexandria; Port City of Tersanctan Drakonia;
Fleet of the Executor

Upon the Flagship Arkhangelsk III, Shijin stood on the deck with the Admirality before him, along with the finest Drakonian and Tersanctan Sailors the Armada had to offer. He saluted them as he held Fates Edge the sword presented to him by Crownguard, that represented the Blood Bond between the Two Empires.

"Subjects of the United Empire and Dominion, sailors of the Executors Fleet, we set sail for the Eternal Land! Tareldanore! I need not tell you that we shall be meeting with perhaps one of the most, if not the most powerful Woman in the world. Sirithil. You will treat her, as you would treat your own Executor. There will be no offenses or slips of the toungue whilst we are there. Remember, we are the old ally that deported over half a million Elves, for nothing more then being elves, and still she has graciously invited us too her palace."

"Part of my visit will be to re-build that old bridge, and to convince her, that under the Kotomari reign, all Imperial Subjects are equal unto the eyes of the Emperor." he paused

"Anchors Aweigh! Set Sail! For the Glory of the Empire!" he gave as his final command, and they set upon the long journey to the Enchanted Continent.

OOC:Well, I repectfully grumble that Siri takes too long to reply, so in the interest of moving things along.....

IC:

The trip was purported to have been a Grand One, but representatives of the Menelmacari Government respectfully informed the Fleet that Siri would be unavailable indefinitely.

So Shijin thought about it carefully.

"What of the Enterprise of the Evil Overlord....do they not hold Dominion over a former Colony of ours? Old Tersanctus, if I am not mistaken?" he asked a Admiral.

"Yes, several Decades ago The Omniferocity....aided..I guess you could say the Former Executor Edmund Dantes with a one Byron Tillema, a Despot who took control of the Island through ruthless means. Though we lost the territory, we gained EOE as a valuable...Economic Partner, contributing over 12% of the National Import/Export Surplus. His continued relations are a large reason that the Economy recovered relatively quickly after two Civil Wars. The first after Edmund was killed, the second during his son, Christopher Dantes' rule. Your predecessor , Executor Anthony Bertch, was more focused on semi-isolationist policies in regards to the world, which may be a large reason Tersanctus had fifteen years of apathy after his death."

Shijin nodded. "And would a visit to his Land smooth things over perhaps?"

"HAH! Your talking about His Omniferocity! The Evil Overlord has never been known to grant a Personal Audience with anyone, especally not a Pissant country, at least in their eyes, like Tersanctus. Listen, we may be recovering well, and becoming A Force to reckon with once more, but the best your going to get out of these guys is some Psychotic Representative, thats going to give you a scripted "Hi. Nice to see you again. Please continue doing Economic Trade with us so we can make money and have a strong military." laughed out the Admiral.

Shijin raised an Eyebrow.

"So youre telling me that along with Economic Trade, we've had lots and lots of Diplomatic Visits with them? And this is how you come about your assumption?"

The Admiral opened his mouth to say something, but cut his toungue short, realizing that Executor Kotomari was right.

"Never assume anything, Admiral. One of your rank would know that, that is how I never lost a man or a battle, practice or otherwise, as a Lieutenant in the Imperial Trisagion Army."

He turned to a Officer standing at attention in the Command Room.

"Relay a message to the Diplomatic Agency of the Evil Overlord Enterprise. The Fleet of the Executor is at sea, seeking nations to re-build old alliances, and forge a greater future. They would honor us, with a granting permission for a visit, with His Omniferocity Himself, if possible."

"Yes, My Lord Emperor. It shall be done." The Officer saluted, bowing his head, at perfect military stance, and bringing his right fist to his chest, right above the heart. Disembarking, he walked out to the Communications Center.

The Warlord paused at the threshold as regulations required and waited to be recognized. Across the dimly-lit chamber, a magnificently-gloved hand was briefly visible as it touched a key on the Master Control Console. A red light above the doorway flashed once, and the Warlord entered the Presence. Stopping the mandated three meters from the shadowy figure on the darkened throne, the Warlord bowed to his Lord and Master.

"You are aware of the recent diplomatic overtures by the new ruler of Tersanctus."

It was not a question. The Warlord nodded. "I am, my Lord. We have received a request from the Executor, Shijin Kotomari, for an audience with you."

"I do not grant audiences. No matter how long-standing and profitable the relationship."

"I have no doubt that the Executor- or his staff- is aware of that. There is a possible solution to this problem, however."

"Proceed."

"Rather than risk insulting the Executor with your refusal to see him, I suggest Dark Torch herself request an audience with him. She is the Governor-General of Old Tersanctus, after all. As an alternative, you could choose to send me in her place."

"Very diplomatic." The Master of Malevolence nodded. "You will convey my respects to the Executor in person. Re-establish normalized relations with United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus on whatever terms you deem prudent. I assume your pet Marshall is capable of surviving for a week or so without you holding her hand."

The Warlord bowed. "I have the utmost confidence in her, my Lord. By your leave, I will depart as soon as possible."

"Very well. We will discuss the Revalen situation on your return."


FROM: Evil Overlord Enterprises, Department of Foreign Relations

TO: Foreign Ministry of the United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus

SUBJECT: Official visit

With no disrespect intended to the Dominion's old friend, Tersanctus, it will not be possible for the Executor to meet with His Omniferocity in person. Rather than risk the appearance of lese-majeste which might be implied by the Executor travelling to the Dominion in person and meeting with lesser personages than the head of state, His Omniferocity inquires if it would be acceptable if the highest-ranking official of His Omniferocity's government were to travel to meet the Executor at a time and place of the Executor's choosing.

If this suggestion is not acceptable, His Omniferocity's government is willing to entertain suggestions from the Executor for alternative arrangements.

On behalf of His Omniferocity, we eagerly await your reply.

Hercules Crodfoller
Chief of Diplomatic Services
Department of Foreign Relations
Ministry for Pre-Subjugation External Affairs

"My Lord Emperor, no disrespect intended, but I told you so." stated the Admiral.

Shijin only chuckled. "None taken. You were right, I was wrong. But it was worth a try."

"Now the matter leaves one last obstacle...where and when do we meet with whom?" Shijin thought about it. The message was very diplomatic.

At a time and place of the Executors choosing.

These national leaders were quite against him visiting them werent they? Two for two....

"How long would it take to reach Old Tersanctus from our current position?" inquired Shijin to his Admiral.

"Six days at full speed." he answered quickly; already presupposing Shijins Thinking.

"Very well, Embark for Vera Cruz Port city, and relay a message to Hercules Crodfeller, that His Omni Ferocity may send a representative there to meet us in one week."

((At least I think Vera Cruz is the POrt city....damn its been a long time since I looked at that map! Feel free to assume that a week has passed.))

"My Lord Emperor, no disrespect intended, but I told you so." stated the Admiral.

Shijin only chuckled. "None taken. You were right, I was wrong. But it was worth a try."

"Now the matter leaves one last obstacle...where and when do we meet with whom?" Shijin thought about it. The message was very diplomatic.

At a time and place of the Executors choosing.

These national leaders were quite against him visiting them werent they? Two for two....

"How long would it take to reach Old Tersanctus from our current position?" inquired Shijin to his Admiral.

"Six days at full speed." he answered quickly; already presupposing Shijins Thinking.

"Very well, Embark for Vera Cruz Port city, and relay a message to Hercules Crodfeller, that His Omni Ferocity may send a representative there to meet us in one week."

((At least I think Vera Cruz is the POrt city....damn its been a long time since I looked at that map! Feel free to assume that a week has passed.))

<OOC>
I think you've mixed up the EOE logistics base on Isla de la Veracruz (about 200 kilcks to the SW of the island) with the ports of Old Tersanctus. Looking at the map, the primary port is Two Harbors- on the NE shoulder of the main island. The remaining ports are (clockwise around the main island from two Harbors): Empire Landing, Toyon Bay, Avalon, Ben Weston Beach, and Little Harbor. The smaller part of the island has only one good port- Parson's Landing- which is now a major EOE Naval base.</OOC>

"Sir, we have a confirmation from Tersanctus. They'd like to meet in Old Tersanctus." The Chief of Diplomatic Services' face was flushed and sweaty from the effort in keeping up with his penultimate Boss as the taller, fitter man stalked through the Foreign Relations Headquarters in Amida.

The Warlord smiled as he snatched the hardcopy from Crodfoller's grasp. "Good. I hoped they would choose that. Send an alert to Dark Torch and inquire at which port the Executor wishes to disembark. We'll clear all normal shipping from whichever one they choose. Get the details on the size of his security force as well, we'll need to make sure there's plenty of room. I suggest Two Harbors, but the decision is the Executor's of course."

Crodfoller's wheezing finally caught the Warlord's attention, and he stopped. "Dress all of that up in the approrpiate diplomatic wording and get it off to Tersanctus at once. I will be leaving tomorrow morning."

He shoved the hardcopy back into Crodfoller's trembling hands. "One more thing, Crodfoller. You will lose 5 kilos by the end of March, or you'll be working for your secretary. Get moving."


FROM: Evil Overlord Enterprises, Department of Foreign Relations

TO: Foreign Ministry of the United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus

SUBJECT: Official visit to Old Tersanctus by the Executor

His Omniferocity's government is pleased to welcome the Executor to Old Tersanctus. The Minister for Pre-Subjugation External Affairs and the Minister of the Interior will be on hand to greet the executor at Two Harbors (or whatever other port the Executor chooses. Please advise this office about any special arrangements the Executor and his party might require.

His Omniferocity's government wishes to further extend an invitation to the Executor to visit the Free-Trade city of FreePort here in the Dominion at his convenience.

On behalf of His Omniferocity,


Hercules Crodfoller
Chief of Diplomatic Services
Department of Foreign Relations
Ministry for Pre-Subjugation External Affairs

The fleet entered the Harbors, Here it was Two Harbors. This would be the first time in fifty years an Executor set foot on her soil. THough it was no longer The Empires Territory, several hundred million of her residents were still Tersanctan, or of Tersanctan Blood, though there had been plenty of co-mingling with EOE Citizens.

((Or I could be totally wrong, feel free to correct any mistakes I make; just trying to make good story, besides its not like Im saying 4H n00kz j00~~! Wiff 34183832 n00kz! 4nd they A77 hitz0rz j00!!Shift+1!!))

The fanfare played as the Executor Disembarked the Ship, several Hundred Tersanctans still considering themselves loyal to the Executorship, saluted Shijin, with a fist over the heart, simeautaneously, bowing the head in respect.

Shijin responded, then walked to the EOE Greeting Party, followed by several of his Naval Officers, with the protective Templar Honor Guard staying to the back. Shijin knew he was more then safe here, if anything EOE Security was better then Tersanctan.

"Greetings EOE Representatives, I am Executor Shijin Kotomari, Emperor of the United Empire and Grand Dominion of Tersanctus and Drakonian Imperium. I am here to rebuild our partnership, which I hope will lead to an Alliance, and also to give thanks to your efforts against Byron Tillema, which is decades overdue. You honor me with your respective prescences, and open welcoming!"

Dark Torch was dressed in a severe black silk suit, which did little to hide her lush figure. She nodded formally and stepped forward, bowing deeply, in the manner of Japanese dignitaries greeting High government officials. "Lord Executor, I am Dark Torch, Dread Leftenant to His Omniferocity, EOE Minister of the Interior, and Governor-General of Old Tersanctus." She straightened and looked the Executor in the eye. She was just under two meters tall, and her jet-black hair was cut short, framing her angular features.

"I am honored to welcome you at last to Old Tersanctus." She turned and waved to the stocky, dark-haired man next to her on the dais. "May I present His Omniferocity's Minister for Pre-Subjugation External Affairs, Eternal Arch-Villain Psychopompos, who is responsible for military and diplomatic relationships with other nations."

The Warlord bowed deeply as well. "I greet you in the name of the Evil Overlord. It is His Omniferocity's delight to welcome you to Old Tersanctus. I realize that you have had a long journey, but the populace of Two Harbors is eager to see you."

Shijin could clearly hear now the muted roar of hundreds of thousands of people, booming out from between the enormous skyscrapers which ringed
the harbors.

The Warlord grinned broadly. "With your permission, we have prepared vehicles for you to tour the city." He gestured to several vehicles idling behind the dais. "If this does not meet with your approval, we can bypass the crowds through the executive subway and escort you to the Palace. In that event, an extended tour of the island may be undertaken at your convenience on the new maglev subway, or by helicopter."

<OOC>
We can assume that Shijin's security team arrived first, and are familiar with the preparations. Uniformed IS personnel with rifles control every intersection, and local police line the streets between the intersections. The vehicles are all discretely armored open-top limousines with a panic-bar to drop the target (Shijin) into the belly of the vehicle in less than a second. IS personnel will drive the vehicles, but there is room for Shijin's security personnel in each one. Snipers and helicopters cover the rooftops.

About two-thirds of the population of Two Harbors has turned out to greet the return of Tersanctus to the island. This will be repeated at every city except Parson's Landing (which is largely populated by EOE citizen/shareholders). The turnout there will be closer to half the population.

TG me for some details of what I've done with the island since Tillema died.


TEO

Jerome St. Thomas leaned out of his window and stared toward the Port. The sound of the murmurring crowds lining the streets below him was a physical presence in his chest, so he quickly withdrew and closed the window.

There were six people in his living room, all fellow members of the Two Harbors Regional Council. Seraphina Suarez, Dominic Azakian, Carlos Delvalle, Deborah Carstens, Gregor Kostolnic, and Carmine Escobido all looked at him curiously. "Nope, hasn't started yet. I imagine the noise is the crowd passing the word that Shijin is on the dais with the Governor." Jerome gestured at the muted television in the corner, which was showing the proceedings live from the Port.

"What do you think it means, Jerome?" asked Serphina Suarez. She was the Councillor responsible for Economic Development in Two Harbors, and she was worried about the impact of Shijin's arrival on the economy. Speculation had run wild since the announcement of the Executor's impending visit, and investors, leery of volatile situations, were being very cautious with their money. All of the markets were down, and that had Seraphina worried.

For that matter, they were all worried. Dominic was the Councillor for Law Enforcement, and his police were all out in the streets- augmented by the Governor's Internal Security personnel. The overtime would run into the millions. Carlos was worried about public opinion, and a potential backlash against the island's foreign occupiers- and the local governments. The Dominion's hand lay lightly on Old Tersanctus, but it was a foreign occupation. There would be those who were unwilling- or unable- to see the enormous benefits wrought since the Dominion had taken over after the Tyrant's death. Few of the people in the crowd would remember the days when Old Tersanctus had been a colony of Tersanctus, but their parents and grandparents remembered. Despite the prosperity and peace since the fall of theTyrant, the days before Tillema were referred to as 'The Golden Time'.

Jerome shook his head. "I haven't the faintest idea, really." He held up a hand to forestall further questions. "We'll just have to wait and see."

Shijin eyed Dark Torch warily behind a diplomatic gaze.

Beautiful, to be sure. But likely, equally as deadly. How she reminds me of a Black Widow in her getup. Yet, I sense a deep well of Honor in her as well, this is one to be watched...and admired. His onmiferocity is likely fortunate to have one such as her at his side.

Shijin smiled genuinley at her, and returned the bow.

He met Psychopompos, exchanging pleasantries.

"Psychopompos, if I may call you that. Yes we shall ride in the cars you have provided. It is finally time that we have a meeting such as this one. I do wish to re-inerate, that my visit here is purely diplomatic. I wish no misgivings in anyway, and I hope that my hand of friendship being extended, is met with one as well."

He made his way toward the fleet of cars and walked next to Dark Torch, and asked her:

"So, how have you found rule of this island to be?"

Dark Torch gave Shijin a tight smile. "My tenure as Governor-general has been tiresome, in the main. My primary responsibility is that of an officer of Evil Overlord Enterprises, and this frequently conflicted with local perceptions and traditions."

The walk to the cars was brief, but informative. The EOE soldiers patrolled the periphery of the group, while the Executor's guards remained close in. Only the Dominion soldiers openly wore weapons, and Dark Torch was pleased to note that Shijin's Security liaison was working well with the Internal Security officer, Colonel Morel. "I have taken steps to avoid stepping on the figurative toes of the island's people where possible", she continued. "But some measures had to be taken without regard to custom or tradition. My assistant will give your staff a detailed presentation for later perusal. The tour of Two Harbors will be brief, but we can cut it shorter at any time, if you wish."

Another of Shijin's security personnel opened the door of a limousine, and Shijin noticed the Great Seal of Imperial Tersanctus prominently displayed inside the vehicle. Noting the Executor's interest, Dark Torch explained, "Several of the Warlord's staff did some research, and we discovered these vehicles in a blast shelter near Bensing. They were part of the original Governor's motor pool, and the Usurper apparently stored them away before he died. The local Chamber of Commerce spent the last couple of days getting them cleaned and readied for your use."

The vehicle's driver handed several small electronic devices to Shijin's guard, who examined them briefly before handing them to the Executor. The driver said, "Lord Executor, this is a throat microphone, and this is an earpiece. The crowd noise is expected to be pretty fierce, and you'll be able to hear and be heard with these." The man pointed out the panic bar and a switch next to the opening in the roof. "This switch activates the car's loudspeakers, which are keyed to your mic. If you feel like speaking to the crowds, you'll be able to do so. Your seat is on hydraulics, controlled by the panic-bar. Twist the bar forward, and it will lift you up slowly through the roof. Hit the switch in the center, and the hydraulics will yank you down faster than gravity. Just make sure you're strapped in tight."

Dark Torch smiled grimly. "I doubt all these precautions are necessary, but I prefer to be prepared even when it isn't needed."

After Shijin's guards made sure he was safely ensconced in the seat, Dark Torch climbed into the limousine with two guardsmen. The Warlord stepped up to the limousine in front of Shijin's and entered with two more guardsmen. Once everyone was ready, the Executor's motorcade moved smoothly toward Maritime Avenue- the main boulevard leading away from the docks. The cars and their occupants were in the center of a large bubble of protection, moving to meet the booming cheers of the hundreds of thousands of people lining the streets.

The Warlord's voice buzzed in Shijin's earpiece. "Once you and your staff get settled in, we can discuss matters in greater detail. His Omniferocity has given me full authority to negotiate for the Dominion. The Governor or I will provide commentary when we think it necessary during the tour. In the meantime, please feel free to ask questions about anything you wish."

Shijin nodded to him. Than realized it was an Earpiece.

"Well, most of my question will likely be asked during the conference, mostly I was interested in the Status Quo of the Island, which Dark Torch answered for me." Otherwise I will see you at the conference."

Shijin settled in for the ride, and prepared himself for anything. EOE seemed to have a great deal under control on the Island, and god knows what else they were capable of.

The Counselors gathered around the windows when the growing crowd noise warned them the procession had begun. The sound grew louder with each passing moment as the motorcade hove into view down the street. Seraphina Suarez decided to take her chances with hearing loss in order to get a better look, and reached for the window latch. Jerome caught her arm. "Wait," he said, gesturing toward her chest. The other Counselors followed his gesture and gasped aloud. A bright red dot glowed in the center of Seraphina's blouse. She quickly lowered her arm as Jerome relaxed his grip.

Dominic Azakian swore softly. "I knew security was tight, but this is ridiculous. I've seen the threat estimates- there are no credible threats against Shijin here."

Jerome shook his head. "You're forgetting that two of the top officials in the Dominion are also in that motorcade. Under the circumstances, I'm a little surprised the Governor didn't summarily evacuate every room in the city that opened onto the parade route."

The others nodded soberly. Jerome stared down at the street, carefully keeping his hands at his sides and pointedly not sweeping his eyes along the nearby rooftops to try and spot the snipers. Seraphina returned to the sofa and watched the television. "He's young, isn't he?" she asked after a moment. No one spoke, although Gregor Kostolnic and Carmine Escobedo nodded in agreement.

Carlos DelValle quietly asked, "What if the Dominion offers to return the colony to Tersanctus?"

The motorcade passed below them, and Jerome turned away from the window. "Change is not necessarily a bad thing, Carlos. Look at us- we were all minor-league amateur revolutionaries before the Dominion got rid of the Tyrant for us."

Seraphina Suarez shook her head. "It might not necessarily be a good thing either, Jerome." She sat back on the sofa, though her eyes never left the TV screen. "The Dominion is ruthless and efficient, but primarily concerned with profit. Every single one of the improvements they've made here- at a cost of billions of credits- was really made for their benefit. They've recovered every stad of the investment, and continue to do so- from fees on the services they provide."

Gregor snorted. "What matter who runs country, so long as country is run well?"

Seraphina smiled at him. "You really should pay attention to the security briefings, dear. All of the latest reports from Tersanctus say that Shijin's primary focus is the restoration of honor to the Empire."

Gregor was either confused or pretending to be, but Jerome finally saw the reasons for Seraphina's ambivalence over the arrival of the Executor. "Honor has many meanings, Seraphina."

Dominic saw her point as well. "Jerome, we've had a decade of peace and prosperity under the Dominion- because it's more profitable that way. Seraphina pointed out that Shijin is still young. Young men, especially young men focused on their concept of honor, historically make a lot of waves- politically, culturally, and militarily."

Carlos shook his head. "You're all missing the point. We have no say in the matter. Shijin is young, handsome, and cuts a romantic figure. Listen to them out there." He pointed at the windows, still booming with the cheers and shouting from the crowd. "The motorcade went by several minutes ago, and they're still shouting. He's an idealized hero to the younger folks out there, and everyone's heard the stories the abuelas tell about the glory days of the Empire. Given that sort of mythic momentum, we may simply be forced to bow to the inevitable."

Jerome shrugged. "You're both right, not that it matters. We only have a say in how Two Harbors is run. Major decisions such as this are always decided by the Governor."

Deborah Carstens had been silent until now. "But we are the economic heart of the island, Jerome. Even though we officially control only Two Harbors, we have a great deal of influence on the Counselors in the other cities- except Parson's Landing."

Jerome shrugged and ran his hands through his greying hair. "You all know my opinion. Tersanctus is still our spiritual home. As a politician, I have to acknowledge the fact that a return to the empire's control would be very popular." He sighed and sat in one of the overstuffed chairs near the fireplace. "But it would make some pretty dramatic changes in everyone's way of life, here."

He stared at the ceiling. "If the island returns to the Empire, we will certainly be involved in Shijin's return to honor. This will help with several socio-economic issues we've been dealing with, but will likely cause other problems- such as the economic issues you and Dominic mentioned."

Deborah waited a moment after Jerome stopped speaking before asking, "So what should we tell the other Councils?"

Jerome shook his head. "Damned if I know. Damned if I know why I thought getting a look at the new Executor would tell me anything important about him." He covered his face with his hands for a moment as the others waited.

"We're pretty evenly split on the issue here, and I bet it’s the same in the other cities. The problem- as I see it- is that no one wants to risk being on the wrong side. If we agitate for return to Tersanctus and the Dominion doesn't like it, we could wind up against a wall getting offered a last cigarette. If we campaign for a continuation of Dominion rule and the Dominion plans to return us, we'll be considered traitors by the Empire- and most of the people on the island."

Feeling the eyes of the other Counselors on him, he stood up and walked toward the kitchen. "Here's what I suggest: rather than force any of us to go along with a policy they might not agree with, each of us will do what he or she thinks best. If you think returning to the Empire would be best for us, do what you can to make it happen- bearing in mind the penalties for overt political activity. Same thing for those who think remaining a Dominion colony is best. I am going to wait and see, and I'll encourage others to do the same."

Deborah snorted. "So your decision is not to decide."

Jerome poured himself a glass of rum and hoisted it in an ironic salute. "Yep. And I'm sticking to it."

OOC:Very good post. Though I dont necessarily want Old Tersanctus Back, it should provide for interesting storyline. I am also assuming Dark Torch is in the Car with Shijin, or can at least hear him through the Communications Device.

IC:

"In truth I did not expect such a welcoming prescence from the Island. It would appear they do not feel we abadoned them, at the time this Colony was almost on equal terms as Tersanctus militarily. Now it would also seem that The Dominion has benefitted from its rule."

"Primarily of course I am concerned with merely revamping the lines that we once shared, even if it is solely for mutual benefit, There are dues to be paid from my country, and I will see her in Glory once more."

"Ah, we arrive, good. Shall we make preparations for the Conference, or is there a period of rest required beforehand?"

Once clear of the city, Shijin was lowered into the cabin of the limousine and the motorcade proceeded rapidly on the smooth highway to the Governor's Mansion. The structure had been badly damaged when the Overlord's troops first took over the island, but there were no signs of it visible today. The Executor's advance security element was already present at the gate to the underground parking facility- a new addition, as the Governor explained.

"When we put in the intercity rail system and the subway, we established a large rail terminal a few kilometers to the west of here. A separate subway line runs from the terminal directly to the garage. The Mansion can is accessible only through the garage, and IS troops handle security there. Only cleared personnel are permitted on the subway, and only Internal Security or police vehicles are cleared for garage access."

The car moved smoothly through the gate and into a long tunnel. Dark Torch waved a hand toward the car roof and- by extension- the beautifully manicured grounds above the tunnel. "No part of the garage extends beneath the Mansion, and the grounds above are swept by multitudes of computer-controlled sensors and weapons." She smiled grimly. "Not that the system has ever been tested, but I am the head of Internal Security."

The cars pulled to a halt in front of a discreet security checkpoint. Dark Torch opened the door on her side and stepped away from the car to permit Shijin to follow. She drew a small electronic display unit from her pocket and tapped a short key sequence. "I have just informed the Staff that we are arriving. We can proceed to the Briefing Room if you wish."

Several of the Executor's guards preceded and followed the small group as they moved along a paneled hallway away from the garage. Most of the EOE Internal Security troops remained at the checkpoint, but two apparently unarmed men in dark suits led the way. An elevator was standing by, with another man in plain clothes holding the door open by pressing the Door Open button. Shijin noticed that the man's eyes never stopped moving, and he rarely looked directly at either the Governor or himself.

The Governor nodded to him as the party entered the spacious elevator, then turned to face Shijin. "All major decision involving the colony are made here- by myself or my two assistants. Local Councils- chosen by the people in the cities and towns- handle most local matters. There are also five Regional Councils, the members of which are selected by the local Councils. These larger Councils are more restricted in their authority and power, but are still permitted some say in the governance of their particular Regions."

Frowning darkly, she continued, "Then there is the National Council. They have almost no authority and very little power. It is primarily a place to permit prominent but otherwise useless members of society to pretend that they are still relevant to the governing of the colony. The title carries a modest honorarium and some prestige, and therefore keeps most of the ineffectual troublemakers usefully annoyed and out of my hair."

A set of double-doors stood open on the left a little ahead of the group of dignitaries, and Shijin noticed two of his guards just within the large room beyond. The Warlord stepped ahead and gestured broadly toward the three-meter wide entrance. Dark Torch gestured for the Executor to precede her, and followed him into the room. The aides and security personnel behind them followed the Warlord in.

A large, curved table, which described three-quarters of a circle, dominated the room. The open end of the circle faced a large display screen that covered the entire wall opposite the door, and the chairs were all on the outer edge of the table. Small electronic controls were positioned to the left of each seat. A bar occupied the left wall, and a long table covered with refreshments was set against the right wall.

The Governor waved at the table and invited Shijin to sit. "Welcome to the Staff Briefing Room. Please take whichever seat you prefer. We can hold our discussions here in relative comfort, and there are refreshments available."

Shijin smiled, and grabbed a simple Bottled Water, and sat down.

"Now then, as too why I am here." he said as he cracked opened the plastic cap.

"Tersanctus, since being torn apart internally by civil war thirty years ago, has been largley corrupt, apathetic, and in your terms, Unprofitable."

"Since my acceptance of the Executorship, this has changed. The desire too change was there, my people simply needed a catalyst. One whom could lead them to the Golden Age they sought. Most local districts have been completly re-vamped, out with the old, in with the new, they say. The former District Administrators who oversee Provincal Policing, Legislation, and Public Services were forcibly retired early with generous severance packages."

"The New DA's(District Administrators) have fired, rehired and rebuilt the former system to its former efficincy. Now the question arises, how does a nation comprised of more than three billion Citizens manage such sweeping change almost overnight? The answer is infrastructure and loyalty. The basic infrastructure was already there, and the loyalty comes from the Kungshaoist Temple, all the Preists and Warriors are sworn to the Executorship of the Empire. That is what has prevented any open Civil War since my rise, that, and Civil Rights have actually increased since my arrival into the Imperial Post."

"What this means to you, is first, a thanking for not losing faith during these last few decades, and keeping open our trade routes, our swift economic recovery would not have been possible without it. the other is increased profitability. Yours is a nation based on money, all other qualms aside, that what it boils down too. My position is Honor, and Honor demands that I show my appreciation through action, thusly the action shall be this: Over the next three years, I am authorizing a commission on the national Surplus, which is considerable at the moment, at a rate of Two percent per month, payable to Overlord Enterprises. Now two percent may not seem large at first, but keep in mind how government budgeting works, that is actually a phenomenal amount."

"What I hope to do with this is show to His Omniferocity, that his faith has not been misplaced, and furthermore increase whatever ties we have, it may sound like I am bribing you to be my friend, but that is not the case. I simply wish to show nothing but good intentions to the EOE, and hope that my move is reciprocated."

Dark Torch arched an eyebrow, but otherwise had no apparent reaction. The Warlord gave a crooked smile and sipped his coffee before answering.

"That is a most generous offer, Lord Executor, but I can suggest a better use for the funds in question." He tapped a key on his chair console, and an electronic map of the island appeared on the display screen opposite the table. "As with all Dominion colonies, the defense of Old Tersanctus is maintained entirely by troops from within the Dominion proper. We do not permit the locals weapons, and there are no native military units extant on the island."

He grinned without humor. "This is largely the reason the Dominion does not engage in wars of conquest, by the way. Occupying and providing garrisons for conquered territories is too great a drain on our troop strength." Waving a hand toward the map, the Warlord continued. "We do recruit from colonial populations- mainly for exceptional individuals who would make good citizen/shareholders. Those who are granted citizen/shareholder status are invariably sent back to Dominia Insular, in order to avoid the possibility of divided loyalties. Many of those chosen from Old Tersanctus have been younger, and quite a few have been accepted into the EOE military. These citizen/shareholders number approximately 6,000, and are present in units throughout the Department of Aggression. However, the number of acceptable candidates is always low, and their numbers are insufficient to replace the manpower assigned to the defense and security of Old Tersanctus."

Nodding toward the Governor, the Warlord said, "Despite the economic benefits the Dominion receives from managing Old Tersanctus as a colony, the drain on our military strength is significant enough to require careful management of military resources."

Shijin frowned slightly. "Just how many troops does the Dominion have here?" he asked.

Dark Torch tapped a key on her own console, and a column of figures appeared on an overlay of the map on the screen. "The Department of Aggression has 46,000 military personnel assigned to Old Tersanctus. This number includes the 31st Mechanized Infantry Division (Reinforced), the 19th Fleet, and the 24th Air Force." She highlighted another number beneath the military strength displayed as she continued. "But this does not convey the whole picture. There are two divisions of Internal Security personnel here as well. Internal Security troops are all members of the military Reserve, so the effective drain on the Dominion's military is equivalent to nearly 100,000 personnel."

The Warlord finished his coffee and held the cup out to his side. One of the men in dark suits around the room stepped forward and took it to the refreshment table for a refill as the Warlord finished his presentation. "The Dominion has received a great many benefits from our management of the island while the Empire withdrew into itself over the years, but we have always seen ourselves as caretakers rather than owners of Old Tersanctus. Now that the Empire has returned to its former strength, His Omniferocity is willing to restore the island to the Empire."

"The devil is always in the details, however," Dark Torch said, frowning. "Simply handing the island back to you would invariably result in a great deal of turmoil and needless difficulties for everyone. The biggest issue is that of security, but there are others."

"Therefore, we suggest a phased turnover," said the Warlord. "The Dominion will maintain security and defense control of the island while the Empire begins recruiting locals and training them to Imperial military standards. You can also send in regular Imperial assets to gradually replace existing EOE military units. If you tried to do it all at once, the result would be a massive drain on the Empire's military strength- something neither of us want.

"Imperial law enforcement personnel can begin replacing the IS troops currently reinforcing the local police over the same period. Tersanctan personnel in the Dominion would be given the option of renouncing their Dominion citizen/shareholder status and returning home. Citizen/shareholders here will be given the option of returning to the Dominion or remaining on Old Tersanctus as citizens of the Empire. Civil control- especially in the matter of local administration and legislation- could be restored to Imperial standards within one year, according to our estimates."

The Executor said sharply, "Despite the friendship between us, this is a little too generous. What does the Dominion get out of this restoration?"

The Warlord nodded. "Well spoken. Evil Overlord Enterprises has made significant investments in various projects around the island. We would prefer to return those projects to Imperial control as the investments are recouped over time. Some of these projects might take years to recover the investment. We would also like to retain basing rights for EOE aircraft- perhaps joint administration of one of the two major military airfields." He gestured toward the display screen with his left hand. "And we would remove a significant drain on the EOE military. That reason alone- with our historical friendship with the Empire- would be sufficient for the Dominion."

Shijin seemd to consider the move internally, staring at space for several seconds before replying.


"Most of the terms are acceptable. However...there still remains the Idea, as you pointed out of the locals possibly rebelling, A silent, gradual transference is the best option. And I have absolutley no qualms about you having Independent Military Bases on Old Tersanctus...perhaps the best way, would be The Kungshaoist Temple." Shijin said after taking a swig of water.

"The question remains, how much of Old Tersanctus is still Tersanctan? With various Temples in place, control and Security becomes much easier, rather than a riff-raff local Militia, you have Warriors, whom are sworn to defend Tersanctus, For Lord, and Land as the Templars say."

" I forsee an easier transition by applying increased focus on revitalizing the Temples already here. What you have then in a Warrior Caste, fully supported, both Ideologically, and Finacially by the Local Populace, rather then the Government. That is Tersanctus's secret to having a powerful Military. The Regular Imperial Military, the Trisagion Forces, are a Direct application of the Government. It is no different then Regular Soldiers, whom serve a term, and go back to regular life. The incorporation of which was neccessary to keep up with modern times."

"So, I will begin by making a visit to the Temples, and speak of the plan to the High Preists, they will undoughtedly be receptive. And Im sure that you will find that the transition will be much easier than anticipated."

"How does this sound to you?" Shijin asked finishing his water.

The Governor shrugged. "The details of your development of local military are, of course, yours to work out. It was our intent that the transition proceed slowly to prevent problems for you, but the timetable may be accelerated at your discretion."

The Warlord spoke. "We were not concerned about outright rebellion so much as general unrest of various sorts- although rebellion is always a possibility. Sudden change is frequently accompanied by pain."

Dark Torch called up a file on her hand-held computer and checked the display before continuing. "We have had little contact with the Kungshao priesthood over the last few years- ever since we broke up the Circle Conspiracy." She tapped in a command on the table console, and a row of photographs appeared on the large display. Six of the thirty or so images were highlighted. "Several local politicians- acting in concert with some acolytes at two of the largest Temples- attempted to assassinate me not long after the Dominion gained control of the island. Once the plot was exposed, we found it advantageous to forbid the Temples- and all other religious institutions- from having armed personnel. All of the conspirators were rounded up and executed- including the six acolytes."

She turned to face Shijin witha cold smile. "Since the Temples are more closely aligned with you personally and with Tersanctus in general, perhaps you will have better luck with them. At any rate, I suggest refraining from active recruiting through the Temples until after Imperial civil administration has been established- to avoid unnecessary risk of violence against the Dominion."

Frowning, the Warlord said, "Or perhaps you could recruit here, and train the locals back on the mainland- at least until Law Enforcement responsibilities have been handed over. Our concern is borne of the known antipathy toward the Dominion among many Priests and acolytes."

The Governor's smile grew broader, then she shook her head and the expression disappeared. "The choice is yours, of course. We can adapt the transfer to whatever schedule you prefer. It would take approximately four days to remove the military personnel from the island, and three more to extract the Internal Security personnel. The Empire could be back in control in as little as one week. We estimate a 55% chance of widespread civil unrest with such a short turnover, with an 80% chance of violent confrontation between locals and departing Dominion personnel in the event of unrest."

"Such a high percentage? Surely there is some factor not being calculated? I mean eighty percent chance of a violent confrontation?" Shijin remarked.

"You make it sound as though the whole of the populace outright hates EOE!"

"But it is no matter. We will cooperate with you until the final phases of this operation are complete. I will send a small milita of ITA Soldiers for law enforcement in the meantime. I suggest that we try a small city at first, as well a small Group of Templars to....inspire the locals. This will start the seeds of change. If there is rebellion, it is time we took the responsibilty that we should have so many years ago with Tillema."


Shijin looked at Torch and the Warlord.

"Thank you again."

Dark Torch nodded gracefully and gave Shijin a slight smile. "No thanks are necessary. His Omniferocity is pleased to have been able to do well while doing good."

She gestured toward the display screen and keyed in a map of the island with all population centers marked. "By far the most stable city on the island is Two Harbors, so I suggest we use it as the primary departure point for EOE personnel. Since there is also an excellent port and full-sized airfield nearby, this will simplify matters considerably."

The Warlord nodded. "The timetable and other matters can be worked out in detail at our leisure. The Governor," he bowed his head slightly to Dark Torch. "and her staff will submit proposals to your government for your approval. We can begin the turnover at any time."

The Governor smiled more broadly. "As for the probability of violence, there are several factors which were not covered in any detail in our discussions so far. Among them is the fact that we have been waging a highly successful campaign against several criminal organizations since we arrived. In the event of a rapid turnover, our analyses indicate that the survivors of these groups would probably take advantage of the chaos inherent in any such transfer of power. The more organized the turnover, the less chaos. Less chaos equals less chance of civil unrest of [any[/i] sort. Only in the event of civil unrest would there be a high probablility of anti-Dominion violence- particularly from the criminal element."

More of Dark Torch's teeth showed as her expression lost resemblance to a smile. "We wouldn't be hurt much at all, of course. But I thought that slaughtering a pack of hoodlums would probably look bad on TV."

The Warlord's expression matched the Governor's. "That concludes our presentation for you, Lord Executor. Were there other matters you wished to discuss?"