NationStates Jolt Archive

((OOC: Alright, the votes on this poll will factor in with predetermined voter preferences to determine the new government. They will count but they won't be the whole thing. Feel free to post any interview requests, press questions, news reports, or whatever else from your country. Voting is OOC, based on which leader you'd rather interact with in rp, not on your government's ic position or your rl beliefs.))

Traditionalist Party
Leader: Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
Economics: Feudalism
Politics: Increase the privileges of the nobility, decrease the authority of the monarch and Parliament
Military: Focus on increasing manpower
Religion: State religion coupled with freedom of conscience
Other: Ban gay marriage

Reformer Party
Leader:Count Beleg ap Dougal (Sidhe)
Economics:Capitalism, regulated for the general welfare
Politics:Proactive entitlement to diversify the nobility
Military:Focus on increasing training
Religion:State religion coupled with freedom of religion
Other:Redistricting

Modernist Party
Leader:Vincenzo Lacau (Human), current Prime Minister
Economics:Capitalism, regulated for economic efficiency
Politics:Increase in the power of Parliament
Military: Focus on technology and fleet development
Religion:Separation of church and state
Other:Increased space presence

Purist Party
Leader:Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann (Sidhe)
Economics:Capitalism, economic incentives
Politics:Return to the annual change of rulers at Beltaine and Samhain
Military:Increase
Religion:Compulsory religious participation
Other:More conservation

Repudiator Party
Leader:Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun (Sidhe)
Economics:Capitalism, lower taxes
Politics:Removal of Seelie Nobles from all offices possible
Military:Increase in foreign military projection, preemption
Religion:State religion coupled with freedom of religion
Other:Change of royal lines

Anarchist Party
Leader: Duke Isenrond ap Ailil (Sidhe)
Economics:Socialism
Politics:Reduction in state power in all non-economic areas, decentralization, abolition of nobility
Military: Disarmament
Religion:Complete religious freedom
Other:Abolition of marriage

Conservative Party
Leader:Alierris Goldweaver (Nocker)
Economics:Guild capitalism and small farm agriculture
Politics:Stronger monarchy
Military:Stablilize at current level
Religion:State religion coupled with freedom of religion
Other:Ban gay marriage

Moderate Party
Leader:Victaora Chorster (Redcap)
Economics:Welfare capitalism
Politics:Federalism, increased checks and balances
Military: Decrease in military spending
Religion:State religion by Kingdom
Other:Increased multi-partisanship

Radical Party
Leader:Kevneiros Lightouch (Boggan)
Economics: Total laissre-faire capitalism
Politics:Abolition of nobility, republicanism
Military:Increase in military spending, active aggression
Religion:Abolition of religion
Other:Increased suppression of dissent

OOC: No ic questions?

Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion stood before representatives of the press, awaiting questions. He was dressed in shimmering gossamer of gold and green, his shining, beautiful form cutting a dashing figure against the green background. "Modernizations started out as a practical necessity. We all know that. We all know that we can't fight airplanes with ornithopters of carriers with sailing ships. But we did what we needed to do for our own defence a long time ago. Now, we're trying to change our way of life. What it means to fit in, to know your place in society from birth, that kind of belonging is being taken from us forever. Everyone can do everything is the message of today, a message that leads to a lost and confused society.

"Everything today is about production. Gone are the beautiful fields we once loved, the congenial, paternal relationship between lord and farmer. Gone are the little towns where everyone knows everyone else. Gone is the whole basis of our way or life and for nothing but what? Money! Money! Money!" Amondrond elegantly threw his hands into the air, looking down at the press. "Any questions?"

A young man stood in the middle of the crowd. "Johan Kelos, from Krioval. What are the candidates' views on expansion of diplomatic contacts?"

Duke Amondrond paused a moment. "Well, no one can be against diplomacy as such but the government needs to stop trying to establish contact with everyone. That goal can never be met in a world of thousands of nations and thus shouldn't be attempted at all. Nations with a good, strong, traditional background, Taurenor comes to mind, are fit subjects for diplomatic relations. Other nations are powerful enough to warrant some kind of exchange for practical reasons. But that is the extent of the matter. Of course, I don't want to recall any embassy already in place."

Count Beleg ap Dougal shook his head. "More diplomatic contact is undoubtedly a sound course. We live in a wider world and we should be connected with it in peace and friendship."

Vincenzo Lacau smiled. "My government, over the last five years, has normalized relations with dozens of our neighbors in the world and established lucrative trade with most, trade that substantially benefits all parties concerned. Over the next five years, we intend to do it with dozens more."

Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann shook his head. "Diplomatic contact is all well and good. So is trade. However, the number of people crossing the border in both directions is simply appalling. Our people are endanger of losing all sense of who they are in the current government's grotesque program of transforming the Danaan High Kingdom into a microcosm of the world."

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled a dazzling smile. Even for a Sidhe, she was breathtakingly beautiful and carried a strange charm about her that few could match. She tossed her luxurious red hair behind her as she spoke in a liltingly soft voice. "Well, ah don't suppose there's any harm in talking more frequently to our neighbors in this world. But ah also know talk has to be supported bah other means. Danaan diplomacy has to become a little less genteel and show a greater willingness and ability to rely on and project power."

Duke Isenrond ap Ailil snorted elegantly. "Before we establish more diplomatic contacts, how about a real foreign policy? Something a little more thought out than 'supporting our friends and opposing our enemies', especially given that 'our friends' is a codeword for Menelmecari imperialism. It's not so much a matter of whether or not to expand our contacts. No one disagrees with that. It's a matter of who to expand them too. An Anarchist government would try to make friends with the states in this world where the working man gets a fair shake."

Alierris Goldweaver snorted. "Damn straight we want to expand diplomatic contacts. What kind of furbin momzer opposes something like that?"

Victaora Chorster nodded her assent with the other candidates, her fearsome visage seeming almost to snarl even when she smiled. "I concurr with my colleagues. The Moderate Party would like to see more diplomatic contacts. However, it should hardly be a focus. We're well enough known and, I can say without false modesty, respected in the world that we can afford to focus on problems at home."

Kevneiros Lightouch shook his head. "The problem is...half the time when you establish an embassy in a new, young country, reality swallows it back up within a month or so. The Radical Party would make a habit of exchanging embassies, but only with countries who have shown they're going to be around for long-term diplomacy."

wright in for the imperialist party

Comrade Isenrond ap Ailil, we are curious... how is it that a Duke is fighting for the liberation of the working class?

Isenrond shrugged lightly. "Well, I think the program of my party speaks for itself. If elected, we will immediately legalize divorce, legalize abortion, double the minimum wage, effectively guarantee the right of workers to organize, triple the social safety net, provide prescription drug benefits to retired workers, enact needed workplace safety laws, and make company negligence that claims workers' lives a crime that can be tried as manslaughter. In the long term, we seek to socialize the means of production and turn all control over such means of production over to local democratic workers' councils."

"However, I'm not quite sure that was what you were asking. I think you might have been asking why I didn't forswear my title upon becoming a socialist, no? Well, that is a bit more complicated and a bit more personal. The short answer...and that's all I have time to give today...is that I don't want to hide where I come from. There are many revolutionaries from privileged backgrounds and many of them try to hide this fact from the workers. I respect the workers enough to tell them that I came from the ruling classes, even a ducal family, in my very name and to let them judge whether or not I can still be counted as their comrade. I think the fact that they elected me to a leadership position in their party shows how they feel, an expression of trust for which I am humbly thankful."

"Thank you, comrade, and we wish you the best of luck in the upcoming elections!" The reporter from People's World News sat down.

((OOC: This is what the results would be if the elections were held tomorrow. They'll actually be over April 1. Like I said, half of the data comes from the poll results (which will close on April 1 irl as well) and the other half is mine.))

Traditionalist: 27 seats
Reformer: 19 seats
Modernist: 172 seats
Purist: 11 seats
Repudiator: 11 seats
Anarchist: 56 seats
Conservative: 28 seats
Moderate: 28 seats
Radical: 48 seats

A tall blonde Vanyarin reporter in green and gold robes stood up; her small hovering ISN holocam floated just above her left shoulder, riding a tiny gravitic core. She smiled, her emerald-green eyes sparkling.

"Silmariel Andunewen, Imperial Satellite News holonetwork. Duke Isenrond, surely it would be a gesture of commitment to your beliefs and supporters if you were to renounce your title. Given that you apparently promise to abolish the monarchy and the nobility, might it not be seen as hypocritical not to start with your own title, lands, and other trappings of the aristocracy? Would it not be still more effective to be able to say that you were formerly a duke and chose the so-called 'proletariat' over your own personal interests?"

Isenrond smiled politely at the Elven reporter. "Well, madame, I don't see what you mean by so-called proletariat, or, more precisely, I take offense to the phrase. I assume even in Menelmacar they do have people who do industrial labor and I assume they socially behave as a class, whatever they believe politically. Most genuine sociologists will tell you that people tend to socialize and even marry within their general economic status. I assure you, madame, there is a Menelmacari proleteriat, no matter how unaware of their own class interests they are."

Alierris Goldweaver, being a Nocker, had a bit of trouble keeping quiet. "You didn't furbin answer the question."

The stern-faced Boggan Election Board Press Secretary, Unakahn Arcanegrin, turned her eye to Goldweaver. "Please do not respond to questions addressed to other candidates, Madame."

Silmariel smiled. "If I may note, with all due respect, Your Grace..." She paused for emphasis, to let the title sink in for the viewers. "Ms. Goldweaver is quite right. Will you be answering the question? Further, your interpretation of class interests seems off... how would you respond to the fact that the lowest twenty percent of Danaan income-earners saw their standard of living rise, on average, fifteen to twenty percent over the single term of Vincenzo Lacau's unabashedly market-oriented administration? Would it not therefore be in their interests to support him, since they can reasonably expect a repeat of that performance?"

Isenrond frowned ever so faintly. "It would not have the same effect. It's the kind of symbolic but meaningless gesture that young people do. My policies speak for themselves, however they are going to be represented in the conservative media. Titles are a cultural tradition in the Danaan High Kingdom with very deep roots. One does not change the world in a day. It would hardly be fair for me to give up what influence my title brings, which I can use for the good of the working man, while people such as my esteemed opponents, His Grace, Duke Amondrond, and His Excellency, Count Beleg, still wield power and influence which they can use to oppress the people."

At the second question, Isenrond turned to Arcanegrin. "She's trying to debate from the press gallery."

The Boggan paused to consider. "No more than the gentleman from Constantinopolis."

Isenrond turned back to Silmariel. "Well, madame, that might be the case, but their working conditions are now more dangerous and their comparative wealth has declined steadily. The bottom twenty percent of Danaan income earners went from possessing 10% of the national wealth to possessing 5% under the Lacau administration. Furthermore, the state of the environment has fallen to abyssmal levels, creating serious health hazards for our Inanimae citizens."

"So let me just clarify this, if I may, Your Grace," Silmariel continued. "In other words, your primary problem with the Lacau administration is that a fifteen to twenty percent improvement in after-tax income is the absolute minimum that can be expected over a five-year term, and that many people can expect substantially more? Is it therefore your on-the-record position that this constitutes oppression? And pursuant to my initial question, surely the lack of a title is not a crippling blow to your influence; the Prime Minister himself lacks one. Can you therefore be quoted that it would be a meaningless gesture to renounce your title, even though it would certainly prove beyond a doubt that you stand behind the changes you champion?"

Isenrond, growing a tad irritated at the line of questioning, opened his reply with a rather non-diplomatic comment. "My primary objection to the Lacau administration is that it has allied my country with dictators and war-mongers."

He continued on a calmer note. "My stated position is that the increase in wealth under the Lacau administration stems in its entirety from the labors of the working class and that they are entitled to the entirety of the wealth that they produce. And I do think it would be a meaningless gesture as well as a decrease in the ability to effect change. You might not be aware of local custom, madame, but Prime Minister Lacau, when he ceases to hold that office, which I hope will be soon, no offense Lord Minister, is certain to receive the title of Baron as do all retiring Prime Ministers who do not already hold an equal or greater title. It is the one instance where the entitlement of a quote unquote commoner is considered a tradition by the monarchists rather than an exception."

Did Silmariel dare to push just a little further?

Oh yes.

"One final series of questions, Your Grace," she said with a smile, noting the obvious unhinging of her interviewee. "A few more clarifications if you please, and I must emphasize that I seek only to iron out inconsistencies in your arguments for the benefit of my viewers."

"First, it is your stated position that despite the fact a substantial number of your fellow party leaders, including the Prime Minister, do not hold titles, lack of a title represents a blow to influence that outweighs consistency with your stated platform? Second, your stated position is that the increase in wealth is entirely independent of the policies of the Lacau administration, and if so, how would the policies of your administration be any different? And finally, since it's clearly your stated position that a climate exists under which people can reasonably expect a bare minimum of a three percent increase to their after-tax income on an annual basis, hypothetically, wouldn't radical changes to the Danaan economic system logically risk eliminating that climate and destroy that expectation?"

Isenrond nodded. "As far as wealth is concerned, well, wealth is created in a rather simple way. Raw materials are harvested by workers, transported to factories by workers, turned into finished products by workers, transported to stores by workers, and distributed to customers by workers. That is my stated position. And those workers should have the fruit of their labor. I would also contest the idea that everyone has a minimum increase of 3% per year. The average increase in real wages for the lowest 20% of Danaan wage earners is indeed 3% per year. However, the 'minimum', to the extent that statistics can cover it, would likely be the 1% per year which has been received by the lowest 1% of Danaan wage earners."

The Duke laughed slightly. "Though, in all fairness, madame, I think I should let some of my colleagues answer some questions. You and I have been rather unfairly monopolizing this press conference." He gave her what seemed outwardly to be a friendly smile as he looked around the room.

"Virginie Merlot, Peacock News Network." started a pretty young Pantocratorian journalist in a French accent. "After the recent terrorist attacks against the Danaan embassy in New Rome, as well as the strained relations between Pantocratoria and the Resurgent Dream of late, what would each of you do, if elected, to address both the problems in Panto-Danaan relations, and the terrorist threat faced by both nations?"

Silmariel smiled. Four times she had asked and four times Isenrond had evaded the question. "Thank you, I believe I have everything I need, Your Grace," she answered - quite honestly - as she sat down.

Isenrind nodded to the Elven journalist. "Of course, madame."

Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion turned to Merlot's question first. "I, for one, thought my government's position on the Crews case was ridiculous. It was clearly an internal Pantocratorian matter and even if it were not it would be ludicrous to ruin the relations between two great nations over one commoner. As for terrorism, I think we should approach the problem at its root. In a sense, this kind of blowback should have been expected. One can hardly expect any people to react well to the policies of forced race mixing being advocated by the current regimes in both the Resurgent Dream and Pantocratoria."

Count Beleg ap Dougal responded next. "Well, those tensions were over a specific incident which is now over. We are now brought together by a common terrorist threat, a threat which we must deal with in terms terrorists understand, by apprehending these murderers and trying them for their crimes."

Vincenzo Lacau nodded to Beleg before looking back to the crowd. "I couldn't agree with His Excellency more. I would also like to stress that terrorism is a threat not just to any nation or group of nations but to the peace of the world. While the Danaan High Kingdom is not currently capable of ridding the world of terrorism as such, we do intend to fight these terrorists and to fight to win."

Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann shrugged. "If elected, I will hunt these terrorists to the ends of the earth and kill them. Danaan dead will be avenged three fold and we shall not rest while the blood of our honored dead cries out for vengeance. As for Crews, we were right about the case. The Pantocratorians corrected the matter and admitted we were right. I don't see what else there is to say about it."

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled that same charming smile. "Well, ah hardly think we would be in this mess if the country had itself in a position where it could project power effectively. Ah want us to go from being a target to being a sword, a place for terrorists to fear, not to aim at. As for Pantocratoria, well, ah certainly think this involves friendship with all free, peace-loving nations."

Duke Isenrond ap Ailil shook his head. "That whole thing was ridiculous. We are happy to work with the workers and peasants of Pantocratoria towards common goals. However, I can't help but think this whole fight against terrorism is just a code word for imperialism against the poor and downtrodden, however misled."

Alierris Goldweaver nodded. "We could learn a hell of a furbin lot from the Pantocratorians. At least they don't let dykes marry into their monarchy. All we need to do is take out this mubber furbin band of terrorists and racists and then pave the way for friendly relations."

Victaora Chorster sneered, which might have been what the Redcap woman meant as a smile. "We're definitely committed to multi-lateralism. We'd like to patch up this thing with Pantocratoria and work together for mutual security against terrorism."

Kevneiros Lightouch smiled politely. "I don't think we should have waited so long. We should have moved against these terrorists as soon as they started killing Danaan citizens and dealt with the resultant problems in Pantocratorian relations afterwards."

"Thankyou very much." Merlot replied with a polite smile. "One more question, if I may, mesdames and messieurs. To what extent are each of you willing to form coalitions in order to form government, and with whom do you think there is a potential to form coalitions?"

Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion nodded. "I would be willing to form a coalition with the Purists, if absolutely neccessary."

Count Beleg ap Dougal smiled. "In principle, we have no objection to coalition with the Modernists and the Moderates."

Vincenzo Lacau nodded agreement. "We could work with the Reformers and the Moderates."

Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann pondered. "We could work with the Traditionalists or the Repudiators but obviously not both at once."

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled that same charming smile. "Well, ah really want to work with everyone here to select the best cabinet for the nation."

Alierris Goldweaver smiled. "We could sure as hell work with the Traditionalists and the Moderates."

Victaora Chorster snorted. "Like I said, multi-partisan government all through."

Kevneiros Lightouch smiled politely. "We could work with the Moderates and the Conservatives."

Duke Isenrond ap Ailil shrugged. "It would depend on the situation and the deal to be made."

"So that's how the elf wants to play, is it?", thought the reporter from Constantinopolis. He suddenly found a whole reservoir of new questions to ask.

"Simon Pavonis, People's World News. I have questions for Prime Minister Lacau and comrade Ailil: What would be your opinion of a government that, while endorsing slavery or some other form of exploitation, promises to increase the income of the slaves by three percent annually in exchange for their obedience and loyalty? If you were one of the slaves in question, would you support such a government, or would you stand up for your rights? Finally - and this question is directed solely at comrade Ailil - what would be your opinion of someone who suggested that the slaves should accept the bribe, even though social inequality would increase and their share of the country's wealth would decrease?"

Lacau straightened slightly. "I would consider any system that practices forces labor, outside a punishment implemented with due process of law, as morally repugnant in the extreme, be it a slave society or a society where all citizens are forced to work for the state and denied their right to use or exchange their labor, which by nature belongs to them and them alone, as they will. That is why my government has rendered illegal the feudal levee, implemented land reform in the countryside which included a land redistribution program that both justly compensated the former great landholders and turned former tenants into free small farmers, and refused to countenance slavery and similar violations of sentient rights in those states with which we associate."

Isenrond held up a hand briefly. "Comrade Isenrond, not comrade Ailil. And, yes, I think any system where the fruit of the people's labor is enjoyed by a privileged few is odious and I would include the current government in this description. As for abolishing the feudal levee and land reform...well, we praise the Prime Minister for that and voted with his Party when it came up. Those measures were part of the bourgeois revolution here and were part of what history demanded. At that time, the Prime Minister played a progressive role. But now it's time to move on. We hope Prime Minister Lacau can retire from power with the honor of having abolished feudalism before his now reactionary policies forever tarnish him in the eyes of history. His class has fulfilled its historic role and must now fall and let the workers fulfill theirs."

Arcanegrin looked at Pavonis. "Sir, I gave the lady from Menelmacar a good deal of leeway and I plan on giving you the same. However, I must point out that that question seemed aimed more at another journalist's comments than at those of the candidates. I will remind everyone here that the duty of the press is to report the candidates' positions and not engage in debate."

The Kriovalian listened to the exchange with much interest. After the last question, he stood and ran his hands quickly though his long blond hair, pretending to think for a moment. "I have another question for the candidates, if I may." He certainly wasn't going to wait for permission. "What is your view on the freedoms given to reporters to foreign lands?" At this, he grinned, in an attempt to show solidarity with the candidates. After all, the Danaan Kingdom had always enjoyed favorable relations with Krioval, limited as their contact was. Johan figured he owed them something for it.

“Excuse me,” said a necrontyr man rising, “I do hope you don’t mind the interruption,” he gave an impish grin, “Icrihai Ciryaquen of the Confederate,” the name was a hold over, “Free Press, I too have a question for Mister Isenrind. About this Menelmacari Imperialism, are we to take it that if elected you would be taking some form of action to curb this Imperialism.

“Would this not at the very least be counterproductive to the welfare of the ‘Workers’ you claim to represent? After all, I am reliably informed that the Daanan High Kingdom does a significant amount of trade with Menelmacar, and after all, you couldn’t trade with ‘Imperialists’ now could you?”

Simon Pavonis, who was still standing up, remarked "I am sure there are many progressive and non-imperialist nations who would be more than willing to take Menelmacar's place as a core trading partner for the Daanan High Kingdom..." He smiled, feeling confident that everyone in the room was aware of the Constantian policy of giving massive aid and opening trade relations with any new socialist nation.

After that interruption, Pavonis turned to Arcanegrin. "My intention was merely to find out the candidates' opinions on an entirely hypothetical situation... A person's actions in a 'what if' scenario can reveal a great deal about that person's beliefs and motivations, wouldn't you agree?" At the same time, Pavonis was aware of the fact that neither of the candidates had actually answered his questions. Even Isenrond seemed to have missed the opportunity to make a few veiled remarks about the Menelmacari journalist, or to attack the current government for its policy of throwing the working class some insignificant bones and scraps to keep them quiet and docile. Pavonis would have to try again, but, in the mean time, he had questions for the other candidates.

"Mister Kevneiros Lightouch, given your views on dissent, how would you treat the other candidates and their parties if you won the elections?"

A young, but handsome man stood up. "Elliot Carven, Red Banner News. What would you do to try to resist coercion by certain nations to try to use your labor for exploitation?"

The candidates all gave fairly identical and fairly trite answers to the Kriovolans question. The Danaan High Kingdom believed in the free press and extended this belief to visitors as well as citizens. There was no significant disagreement.

Isenrond smiled to Ciryaquen. "Actually, sir, there are plenty of other trading partners we could find. Constantinopolis, perhaps, or Hogsweat."

Arcanegrin looked at Pavonis again. "Mister Pavonis, you are now making statements in your own name from the press gallery. That does cross the line and, if repeated, will result in your removal from the conference."

Lightouch smiled at Pavonis, a pleasant smile that Boggans manage to have even when saying something rather harsh. "Why we're hardly talking about any of the established parties in Parliament. We're talking about racialists, absolutists, Leninists, those kinds of people."

Elliot Carven received similarly uniform answers to the Kriovolan. The sovereignty of the Resurgent Dream, like the sovereignty of any nation, was defended by its armed forces and its mutual security arrangements.

The necrontyr man laughed softly for a moment at the idea of them trading with the largely Menelmacari owned economy of Hogsweat before supressing the chuckle, "I see. My readers want to know why you underestimate the Daanan public so much as to think they would believe that particular argument."

Johan was decidedly confused. Normally, these conferences were far less contentious. Is nobody interested in reporting the facts these days? he lamented silently. Then he decided to press forward. After all, there was a deadline fast approaching. "My question is to all the candidates. What do you see as the most important direction for Danaan industry to take over the next ten years?"

Arcanegrin frowned at Ciryaquen but said nothing. Isenrond smiled politely at the man. "I believe they are smart enough to see their true interests."

Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion answered Johan first. "To improve and expand agriculture, likely into the Dreaming."

Count Beleg ap Dougal smiled slightly. "I'd say book publishing. It is our strength and we should play to our strengths."

Vincenzo Lacau smiled. "Well, I'd say that we still have a lot of growth to do in productive industries. I'm talking about automotive plants, shipyards, airplane manufacure, and all the embassies which build what's necessary for those industries to function. Ballbearing production, for one, is certainly something the economy is working on."

Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann paused a moment. "I think we need to offer strong tax incentives to encourage clean industries such as electric and hydrogen-fuel cars, solar power, windmills, and other products less harmful to our environment."

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled that same simply amazing smile. It might explain why no one had directed a confrontational question at her yet. "Ah should certainly think the entertainment industry could be greatly expanded a'pon. Ah think we certainly have a lot to offer the world in music and cinema."

Alierris Goldweaver snorted. "We need to drop a lot of this furbin' alien technology and get back to proper fairy tech, which means Gematria, which means encouraging the Bes Din and damned well protecting its autonomy."

Victaora Chorster smiled a little. "I'd say manufacturing of all sorts. Our people could use more manufacturing jobs."

Kevneiros Lightouch shrugged. "I don't think industrial development needs to have anything at all to do with the government."

Johan scribbled furiously. The government of Krioval would probably want to weigh in at some point on these elections, so completeness of his article would go far toward a promotion. "What do the candidates feel is the greatest threat to your nation?"

Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion answered first "I think the greatest threat to the country is the erosion of our cultural identity."

Count Beleg ap Dougal claimed "The greatest threat is probably racism, base prejudices that keep our people from working together as a whole."

Vincenzo Lacau paused a moment. "I'd have to say that the greatest threat to our country is terrorism, a threat we intend to deal with."

Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann laughed. "Definitely the attempt of the Seelie powers to maintain an untraditional level of power over the Kingdoms and in many other landholdings."

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled again. "Ah would have to say that it's the failure of this land to enter Winter when the time comes for the seaons to change."

Alierris Goldweaver snorted. "Big trusts. They ruin the guilds and the small farmers."

Victaora Chorster shrugged "Partisan bickering."

Kevneiros Lightouch paused a second. "The nobility."

"Failure to enter winter?" Johan asked. "Could the Lady Arriel explain the meaning of that phrase?"

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun's smile never faltered. "Replace the Seelie monarchs with Unseelie monarchs. Place passion before duty. Deny outmoded concepts of honor. Embrace constant change for its own sake. Freely claim a feast of dreams. Be freer in the development of weapons and in their use."

The response floored the Kriovalian journalist. Johan reeled mentally. To dismiss this as culture shock would be akin to comparing orbital planet busters to a handheld plasma rifle. "A society where passion holds sway over honor and where weapons are freely developed? How would the Lady prevent descent into chaos? Or," Johan thought fast, running his hands through his long hair again, "is that the goal?" There was no trace of recrimination in the man's voice, but he hoped that the second part would be received with a resounding 'no'.

Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun smiled still. "It would descend into the other half of the fairy spirit."

"I apologize for not understanding," Johan soldiered forth. "I am rather new to your Kingdom, after all." He shrugged and smiled, though it took effort. "Could you explain in a bit more detail?" The Kriovalian looked at the other candidates. "Anybody feel free to jump in."

Arriel just smiled. "Ah don't think ah could explain it so you'd understand, not in a year, anyway."

There may not have been Elves on Krioval, but Johan was the closest human approximation. Thus his presence in the Resurgent Dream. He looked at the female politician, tipping his head slightly and grinning. "And why's that? Is it just a matter of history, or is it one of those 'super-secret' things?"

Johan would likely have found the reason for his selection to be rather unnecessary upon arriving. Ordinary humans seem to abound in the Resurgent Dream and, travelling about the capital, Johan would have seen Human Members of Parliament, doctors, lawyers, and the like moving around the same as members of any other race (and there are dozens of other races in the Resurgent Dream). Most of these humans look nothing like Elves.

Elves, of course, are a rather uncommon sight in the Resurgent Dream. They aren't native to the country and were entirely unknown until eight years ago. All the Elves seen in the street are either first generation immigrants or embassy staffers from the Aelosian, Akatoni, Menelmacari, and Taurerore embassies.

Arriel smiled lightly. "It's a cultural and historical matter and a very ancient, involves, and complex one."

Johan was plainly confused, both by the answers he was receiving as well as the lack of Elves in the Kingdom. Obviously intelligence on the Resurgent Dream was next to nonexistent. "I think you for your responses. I hate to monopolize the question period," he paused, scanning the room to see if any other reporter was ready to jump in. Seeing none, he decided to ask another general question. "What do you think is the most important quality in a leader?"

The candidates all made fairly routine comments about courage and strength and compassion and loyalty and intergrity.

He brightened. Johan was being given an out, and he'd definitely run out of intelligent-sounding questions. "Thank you all for your time." He bowed to the candidates in turn. "I am sure that the people of Krioval will enjoy reading about your election."

((One bump before calculating the final results))

Traditionalist: 4%
Reformer: 4%
Modernist: 56%
Purist: 1%
Repudiator: 1%
Anarchist: 19%
Conservative: 4%
Moderate: 4%
Radical: 7%

Vincenzo Lacau-Prime Minister
Kerry Brown-Foreign Minister
Karl von Sanders-Agriculture Minister
Celia Granados-Commerce Minister
Liang Zhi-de-Interior Minister
Plato Karamanlis-Internal Security Minister
Elaine Herzog-Health Minister
Whitey Bush-General Welfare Minister
John Bayh-Intelligence Minister
Plato Papandreou-Culture Minister
Andreas Patakos-Justice Minister
Nerismorel Ironhouse-Labor Minister
Pankul Millstone-Religion Minister
Xangeon Serpenthelm-Hospitality Minister
Hayer Manmah-Treasury Minister
Duke Esior ap Beaumayn-Technology Minister
Count Frick ap Fiona-Science Minister
Miemaku Saaki-Hearth Minister
Grane Leostraelett-Federal Minister
Fermenett Ley-Defense Minister
Duchess Gunnhilsta ni Aesin-Conservation Minister

1. Duke Amondrond ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
2. Count Amrain ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
3. Lord Belegamroth ap Dougal (Sidhe)
4. Sir Isengul ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
5. Duke Gonruin ap Fiona (Sidhe)
6. Count Araamroth ap Dougal (Sidhe)
7. Lord Angorn ap Eiluned (Sidhe)
8. Sir Baradrond ap Liam (Sidhe)
9. Duke Morgroth ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
10. Count Dongorn ap Fiona (Sidhe)
11. Lord Orodcirith ap Dougal (Sidhe)
12. Sir Meneduin ap Eiluned (Sidhe)
13. Duke Belrain ap Liam (Sidhe)
14. Count Galadrond ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
15. Lord Belduin ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
16. Sir Isenroth ap Fiona (Sidhe)

Krioval congratulates the Modernist Party on achieving a resounding mandate in recent Danaan elections, and we look forward to the possibility of establishing formal relations in the future. Also, Commander Dekker personally sends his warmest wishes to Prime Minister Lacau for a stable and prosperous tenure.

Director Koro Vartek
Diplomacy and Trade
Armed Republic of Krioval

(OOC I like your idea, RD; indeed i may have to steal it one day :)

The Danaan High Kingdom thanks Krioval for her sentiments.

1. Count Beleg ap Dougal (Sidhe)
2. Shamba Kabila (Human)
3. Richard Farrar (Human)
4. Lothrop Wesley (Human)
5. Ernst Hegel (Human)
6. Rosa Kwasniewski (Human)
7. Johann Weber (Human)
8. Matthew Wesley (Human)
9. Richard Fletcher (Human)
10. Charles Brevint (Human)
11. John Robson (Human)
12. Luis Alencar (Human)

1. Vincenzo Lacau (Human)-Prime Minister
2. Kerry Brown (Human)-Foreign Minister
3. Karl von Sanders (Human)-Agriculture Minister
4. Celia Granados (Human)-Commerce Minister
5. Liang Zhi-de (Human)-Interior Minister
6. Plato Karamanlis (Human)-Internal Security Minister
7. Elaine Herzog (Human)-Health Minister
8. Whitey Bush (Human)-General Welfare Minister
9. John Bayh (Human)-Intelligence Minister
10. Plato Papandreou (Human)-Culture Minister
11. Andreas Patakos (Human)-Justice Minister
12. Nerismorel Ironhouse (Troll)-Labor Minister
13. Pankul Millstone (Nocker)-Religion Minister
14. Xangeon Serpenthelm (Mannikin)-Hospitality Minister
15. Hayer Manmah (Eshu)-Treasury Minister
16. Duke Esior ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)-Technology Minister
17. Count Frick ap Fiona (Sidhe)-Science Minister
18. Miemaku Saaki (Fu Hsi)-Hearth Minister
19. Grane Leostraelett (Satyr)-Federal Minister
20. Fermenett Ley (Satyr)-Defense Minister
21. Duchess Gunnhilsta ni Aesin (Sidhe)-Conservation Minister
22. Tsung Manahari (Komoku)
23. Tsung Noruchi (Komoku)
24. Moshe Shukeiry (Human)
25. Hafiz Mashariqa (Human)
26. Richard Carter (Human)
27. John Feinberg (Human)
28. Mao Shan (Human)
29. Liu Wei-ping (Human)
30. Vaccha Gandhi (Human)
31. Indira Krishnamachari (Human)
32. John Seinfeld (Human)
33. Gordon Bakker (Human)
34. John Heilbroner (Human)
35. Frances Reagan (Human)
36. Vaclav Gross (Human)
37. Jawaharlal Lohia (Human)
38. Jayaprakash Nehru (Human)
39. Sri Nehru (Human)
40. Susurraa Bugriltok ((Paroseme)
41. Lo Mabisuko (Suijen)
42. Duke Geremin ap Fiona (Sidhe)
43. Count Geremin ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
44. Lord Jalendrel ap Liam (Sidhe)
45. Zubaidah Mabir (Eshu)
46. Duke Jalendrel ap Eiluned (Sidhe)
47. Count Vandermere ap Gwydion (Sidhe)
48. Delphine Eogan (Piskie)
49. August Marx (Human)
50. Gwendolyn Cook (Human)
51. Robert Albright (Human)
52. George Kennedy (Human)
53. Samuel Rosecrance (Human)
54. Michael Knutsen (Human)
55. Richard Niebuhr (Human)
56. Edward Friedman (Human)
57. Daniel Kennedy (Human)
58. Stanley Bush (Human)
59. Franklin Washington (Human)
60. Harry Nixon (Human)
61. Bill Ford (Human)
62. Zbigniew Mondale (Human)
63. Charles Cannon (Human)
64. Hamilton Hartigan (Human)
65. Hedley de la Garza (Human)
66. James Kirschenbaum (Human)
67. James Brenner (Human)
68. Achsah Kraft (Human)
69. Ed Vance (Human)
70. James Byrd (Human)
71. Robert Watson (Human)
72. Luther Civiletti (Human)
73. Amy Eisenhower (Human)
74. Alfred Fisher (Human)
75. Arthur Bruce (Human)
76. William Whitlam (Human)
77. Percy Menzies (Human)
78. Don Menzies (Human)
79. Duke Alan ap Fiona (Human)
80. Alex Amin (Human)
81. Aluthyra Silvershaper (Nocker)
82. Ricife Strifelaugher (Nocker)
83. Lady Unadiana ni Balor (Redcap)
84. Lady Halura ni Fiona (Eshu)
85. Sir Dumontre ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
86. Bantiarna Farra ni Daireann (Sidhe)
87. Mahoga Notsuru (Suijen)
88. Lady Horjeni ni Fiona (Satyr)
89. Sir Geneka ap Fiona (Satyr)
90. Lady Gunnorn ni Aesin (Sidhe)
91. Sir Haskjalg ap Aesin (Sidhe)
92. Sir Jalo ap Liam (Pooka)
93. Sir Lere ap Liam (Human)
94. Mapa Phipaswai (Komoku)
95. Sir Garaklukbhund ap Gwydion (Troll)
96. Sir Falruronsëa ap Fiona (Sidhe)
97. Sir Gamga ap Liam (Human)
98. Sir Dúthel ap Fiona (Sidhe)
99. Nólaquen Estel (Noldor)
100. Darren Bryne (Human)

OOC: OK I don't normally do smiley posts but still...
76. William Whitlam (Human)
^_^
77. Percy Menzies (Human)
78. Don Menzies (Human)
>_<

101. Norgretor Arborshate (Eshu)
102. Sir Itan ap Fiona (Eshu)
103. Sir Dudoraines ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
104. Anne-Elisabeth Royer (Human)
105. Gautier Sardou (Human)
106. Inwitári Máramo (Noldor)
107. Calyton Salvaggio (Human)
108. Sir Gongorn ap Fiona (Sidhe)
109. Sir Addrircn ap Dougal (Nocker)
110. Lady Lubrylla ni Dougal (Nocker)
111. Lady Malelda ni Dougal (Boggan)
112. Sir Hobadash ap Dougal (Boggan)
113. Sir Grimbran ap Liam (Human)
114. Sir Fagloch ap Liam (Human)
115. Lord Cruththal ap Liam (Human)
116. Sir Grimthor ap Liam (Human)
117. Sir Grogak ap Balor (Redcap)
118. Lady Salra ni Liam (Human)
119. Lady Bernrenneth ni Liam (Human)
120. Sir Shadistan ap Liam (Human)
121. Sir Humport ap Liam (Pooka)
122. Lady Dysnalia ni Fiona (Satyr)
123. Sir Moilir ap Dougal (Nocker)
124. Sir Minthag ap Dougal (Nocker)
125. Sir Palabard ap Fiona (Boggan)
126. Lord Elster ap Liam (Boggan)
127. Wileak Dryadson (Pooka)
128. Lady Karah ni Fiona (Eshu)
129. Sir Dues ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
130. Tiarna Dian ap Daireann (Sidhe)
131. Momine Sajiyae (Komoku)
132. Lady Imla ni Gwydion (Satyr)
133. Sir Glauton ap Gwydion (Satyr)
134. Lady Hairid ni Aesin (Sidhe)
135. Sir Gotli ap Aesin (Sidhe)
136. Sir Jakerimeen ap Fiona (Pooka)
137. Sir Mestocne ap Fiona (Pooka)
138. Naibun Pin (Komoku)
139. Sir Izibihal ap Dougal (Nocker)
140. Sir Forhador ap Dougal (Sidhe)
141. Sir Folrulf ap Fiona (Human)
142. Lady Erin ni Fiona (Sidhe)
143. Anne-Elisabeth Allard (Human)
144. Bruno Monteil (Human)
145. Magnus Van Albericht (Redcap)
146. Calpurnia Ladislav (Redcap)
147. Okolner Restless-axe (Human)
148. Laltame Cundu (Noldor)
149. Kelly Marsico (Human)
150. Sir Menerond ap Fiona (Sidhe)
151. Sir Vonyc ap Dougal (Nocker)
152. Sir Clenoic ap Eiluned (Nocker)
153. Lady Primsy ni Dougal (Boggan)
154. Sir Orb ap Dougal (Boggan)
155. Sir Krelnath ap Dougal (Human)
156. Sir Robgard ap Liam (Human)
157. Lord Ranrain ap Liam (Human)
158. Tiarna Galmir ap Daireann (Human)
159. Sir Vuruk ap Balor (Redcap)
160. Lady Gwenlana ni Dougal (Human)
161. Lady Nyrareth ni Liam (Human)
162. Lady Bossaja ni Gwydion (Human)
163. Tiarna Oldton ap Daireann (Ghille Dhu)
164. Sir Lyperion ap Fiona (Satyr)
165. Sir Regan ap Varich (Nocker)
166. Sir Minnigin ap Dougal (Nocker)
167. Lady Rosammira ni Fiona (Boggan)
168. Brehana Trannyth (Redcap)
169. Lord Fruhand ap Fiona (Sidhe)
170. Lady Nerisdiana ni Gwydion (Human)
171. Shadak Smilebeard (Boggan)
172. Zinnaatris Soldshort (Nocker)
173. Iriekain Arroway (Mannikin)
174. Sir Jatihir ap Fiona (Eshu)
175. Sir Dudouille ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
176. Tiarna Eshay ap Daireann (Sidhe)
177. Mayushi Riru (Komoku)
178. Lady Jocira ni Gwydion (Satyr)
179. Sir Lanncenne ap Gwydion (Satyr)
180. Lady Gyrd ni Aesin (Sidhe)
181. Sir Hamsveyn ap Aesin (Sidhe)
182. Sir Gilique ap Fiona (Satyr)
183. Sir Lace ap Fiona (Pooka)
184. Maida Phimsai (Komoku)
185. Sir Irakinam ap Dougal (Nocker)
186. Lady Helmë ni Dougal (Sidhe)
187. Sir Gálfoligas ap Fiona (Human)
188. Sir Finlont ap Fiona (Sidhe)
189. Bénédicte Devereaux (Human)
190. Alain Thévenet (Human)
191. Hades Byron (Redcap)
192. Desdemona Thanatos (Redcap)
193. Erundur Ambe (Noldor)
194. Melaine Pounder (Human)
195. Larry Bolton (Human)
196. Jason Kocher (Human)
197. Sonya Redding (Human)
198. Sir Burkey ap Ailil (Human)
199. Lady Laralith ni Fiona (Piskie)
200. Sir Baranamroth ap Fiona (Sidhe)

201. Jamfire Dawntracker (Satyr)
202. Sir Jamidos ap Fiona (Eshu)
203. Sir Faitent ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
204. Bantiarna Esneachry ni Daireann (Sidhe)
205. Makabuki Ryohatachi (Suijen)
206. Lady Junila ni Gwydion (Satyr)
207. Sir Inladal ap Gwydion (Satyr)
208. Lady Hildildore ni Aesin (Sidhe)
209. Sir Hrodbarfred ap Aesin (Sidhe)
210. Lady Givicess ni Fiona (Piskie)
211. Sir Igchandes ap Fiona (Pooka)
212. Kukwida Pichra (Komoku)
213. Sir Khabimilhar ap Dougal (Nocker)
214. Sir Ino ap Dougal (Sidhe)
215. Lady Gállima ni Fiona (Human)
216. Lady Elrenleth ni Fiona (Sidhe)
217. Louise Evrard (Human)
218. Cecil Eldritch (Redcap)
219. Isis Harker (Redcap)
220. Longobarder Wolfsong (Human)
221. Túrelie Cundi (Noldor)
222. Danielle Pino (Human)
223. Osman Zeki (Human)
224. Emin Bahceli (Human)

1. Righ-Tuatha Dol ap Daireann (Sidhe)
2. Duchess Belia ni Ailil (Sidhe)
3. Count Dungorn ap Leanhaun (Sidhe)
4. Lord Nazdor ap Balor (Sidhe)

1. Lady Arriel ni Leanhaun (Sidhe)
2. Idi Mukulu (Human)
3. Alex Museveni (Human)
4. Claudette Babineau (Human)

The Imperium of Akaton congratulates the Danaan High Kingdom for the recent election. It is a success in a field where we have met with failure. The Imperium is honored to call so progressive a nation an ally.

High Lady Alexandra Lucius,
Regent of the Imperium of Akaton

1. Duke Isenrond ap Ailil (Sidhe)
2. Laurie Menzies (Human)
3. Babila Sikamba (Human)
4. Thodack Foechuckle (Boggan)
5. Gurtranna Axeager (Troll)
6. Cariries Underfor (Troll)
7. Lord Traben ap Ailil (Sidhe)
8. Inisla Mukirah (Eshu)
9. Joséphine Huguelet (Human)
10. Joseph Lefevre (Human)
11. Strycnine Tepes (Redcap)
12. Angelica Dracul (Redcap)
13. Eruantalon Nereruo (Noldor)
14. Carole Grasso (Human)
15. Keith Fleming (Human)
16. Anita Whittle (Human)
17. Kelli Feeney (Human)
18. Charles Marvel (Human)
19. Jessie Lovering (Human)
20. Sir Morgul ap Ailil (Sidhe)
21. Gwaercyn Reodry (Nocker)
22. Dinoic Mobrylla (Nocker)
23. Prinua Gilaranth (Boggan)
24. Sam Tob (Boggan)
25. Pranai Cugdush (Redcap)
26. Wingrove Glastnthorpe (Ghille Dhu)
27. Philadelphiosyne Chromon (Satyr)
28. Nunar Boran (Nocker)
29. Moranza Larallizil (Nocker)
30. Adamgrim Fortintine (Boggan)
31. Marsys Millstone (Boggan)
32. Petian Mineshadow (Troll)
33. Haseem Mafa (Eshu)
34. Sir Faueau ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
35. Tiarna Endoc ap Daireann (Sidhe)
36. Mafuko Sanode (Suijen)
37. Grerianra Manxandlo (Satyr)
38. Jusell Marrie (Satyr)
39. Haive Kellga (Troll)
40. Haaleif Nadi (Troll)
41. Gielan Kemar (Piskie)
42. Lenheslufdich Piderocte (Pooka)
43. Monlalermdarung Pilit (Komoku)
44. Khabikhizghâl Nalakla (Nocker)
45. Sir Hítar ap Balor (Sidhe)
46. Sir Errodil ap Leanhaun (Sidhe)
47. Adrienne Rabaud (Human)
48. Fortuné Sicard (Human)
49. Vladimir Ladislav (Redcap)
50. Hagar Shelley (Redcap)
51. Eruheru Eruntion (Sindar)
52. Kristen Parent (Human)
53. Ramona Sandlin (Human)
54. Blanca Mcconnell (Human)
55. Cassandra Darr (Human)
56. Natasha Kingsley (Human)
57. Clinton Yeaman (Human)
58. Ariane Balcer (Human)
59. Mohamed Sakakeeny (Human)
60. Janessa Oxton (Human)
61. Steel (Dragon)
62. Fisa Wardolind (Piskie)
63. Galadamroth ap Scathach (Sidhe)
64. Tiarna Felllore ap Daireann (Sidhe)
65. Blurraent Rhanvan (Nocker)
66. Deana Meall (Nocker)
67. Linvia Panellia (Boggan)
68. Duff Toby (Boggan)
69. Hagor Kinak (Redcap)
70. Doram Malfield (Ghille Dhu)
71. Sebarx Dynatyn (Satyr)
72. Molir Nubur (Nocker)
73. Luzzad Ranmazal (Nocker)
74. Donnager Esmerunda (Boggan)
75. Jadifiq Mamehla (Eshu)
76. Dusauwe Lagrue (Piskie)

1. Alierris Goldweaver (Nocker)
2. Araatra Battleheart (Troll)
3. Yenben Arcanegrin (Nocker)
4. Thoaver Arcanegrin (Boggan)
5. Walice Diamondeath (Troll)
6. Cruster Shortcloak (Nocker)
7. Sir Issikar ap Gwydion (Eshu)
8. Sir Deslavache ap Beaumayn (Sidhe)
9. Bantiarna Dmyphra ni Daireann (Sidhe)
10. Kochi Nomi (Suijen)
11. Lady Fisannia ni Gwydion (Satyr)
12. Sir Kincois ap Gwydion (Satyr)

1. Victaora Chorster (Redcap)
2. Babila Butake (Human)
3. Sekou Osofisan (Human)
4. Alex Musevini (Human)
5. Lyndon Dubose (Human)
6. Herman Glotz (Human)
7. Winston Park (Human)
8. Henry Curtiss (Human)
9. Hoyt Truman (Human)’
10. George Henderson (Human)
11. Matthew McConnell (Human)
12. Tran Duc Dung (Human)
13. Alulyassa Tarmikos (Pooka)
14. Jasamam Melil (Eshu)
15. Fauceulust Jenneien (Piskie)
16. Dola Grace (Clurichaun)

1. Kevneiros Lightouch (Boggan)
2. Nelson Guest (Human)
3. Xyronna Waveharp (Mannikin)
4. Hayna Mafron (Eshu)
5. Duan Herle (Piskie)
6. Danaisaid Frannnan (Clurichaun)
7. Kuhimi Notsuhiri (Hanamen)
8. Fedesinah Lorliri (Satyr)
9. Geka Lorrumachus (Satyr)
10. Gungrhild Ida (Troll)
11. Hjort Mund (Troll)
12. Evdiny Jorosha (Piskie)
13. Lesuro Pedmohues (Pooka)
14. Maklek Phayripon (Hanumen)
15. Ilukrakdu Nazazidu (Nocker)
16. Hilmewen Nolmerodur (Noldor)