NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: Done with Allanea's permission.

Gripping the snake around his neck, Warren breathed one breath deeply before kicking chair from beneath himself, it crashing into a nearby wall. Falling into his noose, it tightened around his neck, choking him. But this didn't matter, dying was his only life's goal, his only means of escaping this hellish world, and he was set out on achieving it. Kicking and flailing, it was his body's natural reaction to the tightening rope which was killing him. He wouldn't have been able to scream if he tried... even though his brother was in the next room. Thoughts passed faster and faster through his mind as his life flashed in front of his eyes... until everything became darker, darker, darker, and darker still.

It was two hours later when his brother Malcolm walked in to find his younger brother hanging from a beam in the ceiling. At twenty-four years old, he hadn't had much contact with death at all... in fact, seeing Warren's limp body was the first he would ever, but certainly not the last. And with one move that consisted of a scream and a rush to his brother's aide, he quickly undid the noose and tried to resuscitate him, but to no avail. It was useless trying by now, Warren was long gone.

A coroner's report released just a few days later would confirm the cause of his death as suicide by hanging. They didn't even mention the suicide note that Malcolm had found and given to the police.

"Fuck the Christians..."

Six Months Later...

Malcolm Ford gripped his 'lady' tightly, and concentrated as he looked along the barrel to the rifle's butt, and eventually his target. Pulling the trigger, he hit smack bang in the center, scoring fifty points.

"Nice shot," commented a voice behind him.

Turning to meet this person, he paused and tried to look at this man's face, "Do I know you?"

A white grin appeared, one tooth being gold, "No, of course not." Chuckling, he extended a hand. "My name is Alex Smith, but you may call me Alex."

Malcolm took Alex's hand and shook it, "Nice to meet you, Malcolm Ford."

"And to you," the man stood back, but tall. "Tell me, how long have you been practising for?"

"Six months," replied Malcolm. "Ever since my brother... uh, went interstate."

The man arched a brow, "I see, close to this brother were you?"

Malcolm was quick to answer, probably a little harsh than intended, "He was my best friend."

Alex nodded understandingly, "Well, it's no secret that you're a good shot. Anyone in this club seems to think the best of you, and you've won several championships through-out Allanea. Not bad for a rookie." He chuckled, and then paused. "Listen, I don't want to frighten you, but I know that your brother died, and how it happened."

Malcolm tried to interrupt, but failed, "You don't know fuck..."

"And I know you've got a fucked up rage against somebody." Alex looked around instinctively, and paused again. "Do you have somewhere more private we can talk?"

He eyed the man suspiciously, "We have a cigar room, I'm sure the boys wouldnt mind giving us a bit of privacy."

Alex grinned from the corner of his mouth, "Sound's grand."

Following him to the club's main house, the two men went inside and down a couple of halls. One room in particular was actually empty, within it was a few seating arrangements, along with memorabilia in display cabinets around the room, and a hunting rifle above a mantlepiece, which completed the fireplace. On the floor, a bearskin rug completed its decore.

"Cuban?" Malcolm offered the stranger. "They're among the best."

"I'll take anything you got," Alex took the cigar and lit it, take in a puff of smoke. Coughing, he didnt smoke all that often.

Malcolm on the other hand... "So what do you know about me, exactly?"

The stranger took another puff, this time tasting it and blowing it out.

"It's simple. You have certain hates that assist us with our ends. We provide you with a means, and you've got yourself a business agreement."

"What exactly do you mean?"

Alex pondered, "Let's just say we both hate Christians, Mister Ford. Are you familiar with The Athiest Report."

"Yes," replied the twenty-five year old. "And Kate hasn't published anything for two months. Not since the call to have Reverend Graham killed (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=12145491&postcount=30), anyway."

Nodding slowly, Alex was quick to further introduce himself. "We are the ones who make things happen. We are the killers of those who invade us, we are the one's who bring real justice to Allanea. If the government won't, then we'll deal with this insurgence." He snickered. "But if you're too weak, I'll be on my way."

"No wait," Malcolm paused for a few moments, the anger rising inside. "I want to avenge my fucken brother. I need this, I was made for this... I was born for this day. I want to join you."

Alex grinned inwardly, an easy recruit.

Having been with his new friends for some years or so now, Malcolm had found himself very deep within the organization's structure. With Kate at the helm of it, her identity was kept secret from the average member. It's most senior of individuals however, those like Malcolm himself... had met Kate on just a few occasions, at a residence not far out of Port Liberty. She was older and more experienced, and when she spoke it was like swords were penetrating every inch of him. This was truth. Even still, at around fourty-years old she was not an attractive woman. Her face was... different, indescribable. Probably perfect for being at the head of a revolutionary organization. Better that she kept her identity secret, since the rising tide of Christianity would probably be angered by the ideas that came forth from her and the people who supported her. Malcolm at this time was now thirty and his training was extensive.

Within weeks of his last meeting, a Multi-Million Dollar campaign had begun. Advertising a new movement of some sort; the Atheist Alliance had been created, in which all of its members would stand strongly for their rights in Allanea. Speaking out strongly against the wave of Christianity, and spreading rumors against them, they would become more active on the streets than ever. As their membership base grew, so would the organization's vocal opposition. If there was any sign that the relationship between government and religion was deepening, it was the Atheist Alliance who would take to the streets in mostly peaceful demonstrations. And if the Christians were gathering for any kind of festivities at all, it was the Atheist Alliance who would turn up shouting slogans of hate and anger against them. Some arrests would be made at these demonstrations, not every member was willing to be peaceful. Sometimes a small group would break away and start to assault Christian individuals; when questioned the Atheist Alliance would deny any responsibility, claiming them as rogues who were not supported by this organization. And it was true, publicly.

In the meantime, Malcolm Ford had been chosen to preside over it. Kate would hand down her orders, and he would represent her voice in a 'law-abiding world'.

In a Liberty-City Hall...

Malcolm stood in front of hundreds of supporters and media, on a podium.

"Gentlemen, Ladies... I want to welcome you to the second annual meeting of the Atheist Alliance. You have all done well to show today, for any members who have not been able to make it, I will be sending out a copy on D.V.D. . This will be free, as it is included as an entitlement for your hundred dollar yearly membership."

A chuckle came from the crowd of hundreds of A.A. members and supporters.

"Let me firstly congratulate you on two years of standing strong in your beliefs. From the vocal protests we have undertaken outside churches and government offices, to the showing up at major Christian rallies... I can now confidently say that over ninety-nine percent of Allaneans have heard of the Atheist Alliance in some way. We have made our statements loud and clear, keep Allanea free from this religious corruption. The corruption of minds, and a person's willpower is astounding... I actually attended a church service two to three months ago and tried to listen to their bullshit... before quickly getting recognized and kicked out."

Some more laughter.

"On a more serious note, the war has not been won. In some states we have gained major public support, but in others I'm afraid that our brethren there haven't been doing so well. The falsification of truth and the twisting of words have led to some major victories for Christians there... kind of a shame considering the innocent women and children who will now be subject to a new regime of 'Godliness'."

"But let me remind you all of the years gone by, when we fought against the Reich... was it not a fanatical Christianity that we were fighting against? Even still, the amount of oppression that people seem to suffer more silently than ever is astounding. I for one will not accept any son or daughter of mine taking to these beliefs. If they did, I would be devastated, and I could not accept them as my own. I do not wish for any such suffrage of my own blood, not anyone for that matter."

"To put it blunt, this rise of Christianity is a danger to us all. So long as people like Reverend Graham still preach to convert the millions, the more conservative the people get, and that my friends attacks the very fundamentals of our civil rights. See this continue, and you will see laws against what we have been doing for centuries starting to come to our government's legislative function. Friends, it is only a matter of time. Reverend Graham is even quoted as saying, 'I will outlaw gambling, I will outlaw any kind of sexual deviance that threatens our humanity. And if it takes it, I will even outlaw the gun.' Can you believe this?"

"In the year to come, you will see, experience, and take part in the biggest year yet. No longer will churches be safe, we will place our people inside them to bicker, distract, and disprove the Pastors while they try to preach their sermon. If they get kicked out and banned from attending, we will cycle our members so that no face is ever recognized. No longer will the homes be safe to house this cult, from advertising on television to mail outs, to door to door knockers, we will spread the news of corruption within the Church."

"Every citizen will know, and this practice of Christian belief will be tolerated no longer."

Reading a paper published within Port Liberty, Malcolm sighed and threw it dismissively onto his desk. Located within the city-center, the Atheist Alliance had paid millions to secure such a piece of prime real estate. Nevertheless, it had given them maximum exposure to the public... and made for an image that was better than some charity organization run out of just anyone's backyard. Hardly the kind of representation that they were willing to make, and certainly, the Alliance would be held in high regard by those who would affiliate with it.

On the streets outside, traffic had resumed their normal patterns after the atheists had blocked them with thousands of demonstrators... protesting a recent move by the states of Marlund, Jagiella and Finara to place the Atheist Alliance on their list of terrorist organizations - this would hopefully serve as a reminder to the Allanean peoples of what would happen should the Christians become influencing in matters of government, slowly but surely eroding their civil rights to protest. And indeed, the Atheist Alliance had proven itself to be a mostly peaceful organizaton. Strongly willing to make a point, somewhat like Greenpeace in that regard. But for those who supported them, they were the only 'army' between them and certain armageddon within the United States.

In the meantime, having had a team of individuals had been working on a Report, specifically designed to produce a cost to benefit analysis should the Alliance double their yearly membership fees, and then provide additional services to the public for mostly PR keeping exersises. Things such as providing councilers to those traumatized by the Christians, or anyone for that matter... other programs they could support such as food assistance for the poor, medicine for those who couldn't afford it, and or even some degree of shelter support for the homeless. Main points of support would also be lended to third party groups that supported peace, racial equality, and other tolerance building groups which would lead to an ever more peacfully existing Allanea. The idea was to convey the image that the Atheist Alliance actually cared about humanity's sake, and was not just attacking Christians because they 'hated' them, but because they were genuinely interested in the welfare of Allanea's children.

Also to note, was the possibility of upstarting a new politically minded sub-division. With this in mind, Malcolm had decided to send a letter to Allanean President-for-life, Alexander Kazansky.

Mr. Malcolm Ford
The Atheist Alliance
64/443 Gilterton Cresent
Port Liberty, $state, $postcode

President Alexander Kazansky
The White House
$address_line_one
$address_line_two

Re: A Meeting Between Us

To the Attention of President Alexander Kazansky,

It is with my greatest displeasure that I see the United States of Allanea become invaded by scores upon scores of foriegn missionaries sent from allied-or-not states, with the intention to 'convert' the masses into an organized religion, such as Christianity. Whilst I can respect and understand why you have not publically commented on this issue, I have some reason to believe that this invasion will ultimately undermine both the freedoms and lifestyles that Allanea seems to currently enjoy, and your rule as President within this nation.

Therefore, I ask of you to make some time available so that we may discuss a common enemy. President Kazansky, you may have heard a lot about the Atheist Alliance in recent months, but rest assured... as some people might try to slander, we do not hate Christians or Christianity. We simply have the people in our hearts and minds... and do not believe that this is the way for Allanea's salvation.

I look forward to hearing from either yourself, or your office.

Yours Sincerely,

Malcolm Ford
President of the Atheist Alliance

Message to the Honorable Freeman Malcolm Ford

"While, at current, I tend to disagree with your opinion, I will happily meet with you in my offices at $time_date.

Sincerely yours, Alexander Kirillovich Kazansky,
Written at the Allanean White House, Liberty-City, Allanea"

Haven Region, Port-Allanea, Allanea

'For unknown reasons, the Administration has chosen the pedestal of the Charlton Heston monument in Port-Allanea – the former capital of the United States – to stage signing ceremony of the Secure Future Act 2007. Under the act, Allanea will now enact a Mutual Trade Policy – that means that trade tariffs in Allanea will be equal to tariffs on goods any given nation imposes on Allanean goods. For example, a nation that imposes a 54% tax on Allanean imports is t expect a 54% Allanean import tax. Further, Allanea will prohibit ships from nations that prohibit trade with Allanea to enter Allanean harbors except on the purpose of distress maintenance.'

'Sounds fair to me, Gail. Also, what's that about Xirnium and Amestria in the Act?'

'Well, under the Act, we no longer have to be legally at war with Xirnium and Amestria to prohibit trade with them. So we're now merely in a state of – diplomatic quiet. We're not letting their diplomats in and they're not letting ours in, either. And of course, there's the matter of all trade being illegal, but that's minor, really. It's not like we would buy the shit Xirnium produces – and I don't think Xirniumites are even legally permitted to buy the stuff Allanea exports.'

'Haha, Gail, that's a point... anyway, dear viewers, we've strayed from the topic at hand a little bit. Apart from the Secure Future Act, Alexander Kirillovich Kazansky had also signed a Midlonian Condemnation Act, which is a Congressional Resoluton condemning Midlonia for their trade with Iesus Christi.'

'Good going. Since this is an Allanean, patriotic, news network – and we don't have to pretend to be unbiased like the networks abroad do – I think I'm authorised to say this in the name of the ANN managements: Iesus Christi's illegitimate government sucks walrii.'

'Goats'.

'Walrii. '

'Goats. And I'm the ranking newscaster, so I decide. At any rate, it appears Reverend Graham is suing an atheist organisation for libel.'

'Libel? What did they say?'

'They claimed – falsely I must add – that the Pastor supports limitations on individual freedom and even gun control.'

The younger newscaster laughs. 'Yeah, right. Like that would happen.'

'At any rate, Reverend James Graham had released the following statement, verbatim: 'All my sermons and speeches are available on my website, both in downloadable PDF form, as .ODT files, and as downloadable .ogg format and .mp3 sound files – and as video, of course. There's also a fully searchable HTML archive, and so I have no idea why those people had chosen to distribute this easily verifiable lie. I have filed a lawsuit for five hundred Menelmacari Credits in the Liberty-City District Court. The sum has been chosen by me in such a way that it is the lowest sum for which it is necessary to convene a jury.' It appears what the Pastor wants most is not material compensation, but vindication of his beliefs and innocence in a court of law.'

'Let's hope whoever is right wins. Now, Gail, we have word that the President has completed the signing ceremony and would like to address the nation. I think we should tune in.'

And thus Kazansky appears on screen. He is wearing black – black jeans, a black shirt – and a black holster-shirt underneath, carrying an obviously visible Glock-18 in it. His boots – the standard-issue combat boots of the Allanean Armed Forces – seem to bite into the granite of the pedestal, the immense statue towering above him.

He speaks, his voice carrying clearly over the crowd of listeners.

'Allaneans!

I am happy to sign here both the Reciprocal Tariff Act and the Midlonian Condemnation Act! These are important Acts, and they will do good for Allanea, for her future, for her children and for her children's children! This is true, and yet I have come here today, under this statue, on this fine morning, not to speak to you about trade tariffs or about the foul Reichites.

I have come to speak about the nature of this conflict that is about to begin in our nation – not a conflict of arms, but that of faith, between a religious faction and a secular one. You know as I do that the Allanean government does not intervene in a matter of one's personal faith – even though, of course, matters of personal faith guide all of us to some extent.

Every single one of us, me included, believes in certain things – not all is knowable. Some things are just believed in. A political philosophy is rather like a religion, too – it's adherents have their own value system – it's basic assumptions based on belief rather then proof – and myths, and heroes, and Gods.'

'Take welfare-state collectivism, for instance. For it's followers it's generally an article of faith that the Market must remain regulated or that the State must have a monopoly on schooling. They have their own myths and saints – they believe that FDR saved Old America from the Depression and that their opposition is inexorably 'Nazi' and 'Fascist'. In this world-view there is no difference between Allanea and, say, God's Own. After all, we're both opposed to welfare-statism, and we both have a pro-active foreign policy'.

The crowd laughs.

'So, from this point of view, what's the big difference between a liberal, a welfare-statist, a Christian, or an atheist? They all have belief as some part of their system of principles. Nobody in the multiverse is one hundred percent rational – including the mechanoids.'

'Now this does not mean any kind of stupid thing like subjectivist morality. Something can be objectively true even if it is not rationally proven or provable. For example, I cannot objectively prove whether Lady Sirithil of Menelmacar is watching me on television as I speak. If she is, however, my belief that she is watching is objectively true, and the belief of those who think she's currently watching a soap opera is objectively wrong – regardless of the fact that I cannot prove my opinion either way.'

'Now, what does all of this have to do with anything?'

'You may have noticed that Allanea is a democratic Republic.'



A chuckle ripples through the immense crowd.

'In a Republic like ours, people are free to criticize the status quo from the point of view of their respective 'religions' – Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians.These opinions are all part of our public discours. Now, the rift seems to be between atheists and Christians – just two more religions, in my view. There's nothing cataclysmic in this – just the healthy course of the public discourse in which Allanea's freedom strives.'

'It would be foolish for me to intervene in this – but it would be wise for me to remind you all that neither is atheism an evil machine of corruption – Atheists have brought the world countless advances in science, industry, and politics – and neither is Christianity a machine of slavery and ignorance – just contemplate Isaac Newton, John Brown, John Birch and most of all, the people who founded Old America, from whom Allaneans still draw their joint cultural heritage.'

'As such, all I ask that you remain tolerant of each other.'

'This is all. And - as I am still free to say - may God continue to bless Allanea.'

In the Eternal Republic, a number of syndicated columnists, political commentators, and newspaper editorialists note the passing of the Allanean Secure Future Act 2007, which amongst other things finally allows the Kazansky Administration to remedy the previous, utterly preposterous and quite laughable situation of having to wage a war in name alone against the nation states that it wished to levy sanctions upon.

The Neúvenärta Intelligencer (known for its decidedly progressive, comparatively irreverent and unusually strident editorial line) is particularly cruel in its mockery of the Allanean government, and plainly ridicules the Secure Future Act 2007 in Friday’s main political cartoon.

The Lady Emaèldiä, iconic personification of the nation of Xirnium, is shown as a young woman as beautiful as the setting sun and elegantly garbed in a classical gown. She is depicted as quite absorbed in the act of carefully preening herself in front of a floor-length mirror, utterly uninterested and unperturbed with all that is occurring around her. The image is a metaphor, perhaps, for the perceived increasingly indifferent attitude that the Xirniumite Government seems to have adopted towards foreign international concerns following the successful resolution of the Torontia dilemma.

At the Lady Emaèldiä’s feet is a cruelly exaggerated caricature of Alexander Kazansky, complete even with an unthreatening toy popgun. Comically depicted as a petulant child of five years, the image parodies Kazansky’s ‘perpetual youthfulness’ and symbolically mocks his Administration’s immature and illogical foreign policy. Kazansky tugs incessantly at the long, flowing silk skirts of the Lady Emaèldiä, attempting in vain to bring to her attention a document (the Secure Future Act 2007) explaining that he is, in fact, no longer at war with her. Instead of treating him seriously she scolds Kazansky, and tells him to scurry off and find his playmates to annoy.

The actions of the Allanean Government are but the juvenile games of a silly child, and the lovely Lady Emaèldiä is quite unmoved by them.

A lengthy reply was sent to the office of Alexander Kazansky from the office of Malcolm Ford. It was lengthy, but if simplified would read as something like the following:

Thank you, this is perfectly acceptable. I look forward to meeting with you.

As such, Malcolm had marked it into his diary. Organization was equivalent to success.

Outside of St. Stephen's Church of Christ, Port Allanea

Walking down the street with an AK-47 was easy in the United States of Allanea. It not being an uncommon sight to see citizens arming themselves like nowhere else; these two men in particular had seen 'worse'. Still, it was surprising for outsiders that such a high amount of armament within the populous, that the United States had not erupted in an enormous state of anarchy. Fortunate, that the new system of democracy had recently been introduced - people were able to now have their say directly though simply shifting their votes from one Senator to another... at almost any time they wished. The most important thing was, that Allaneans appreciated their freedoms, and were willing to shoot over it. Therefore most governments were either afraid or not interested in tackling civil or political freedom sensitive issues. That, or if they did, the Allanean News Network would quickly counter-report it as a means of protection... or issued some other form or state propaganda, as 'free' as it was.

It wouldn’t be completely incorrect to say that the Allanean peoples had a blind love for their government, in President for Life Alexander Kazansky in particular. They loved the fact that they were referred to mostly as 'Freemen' instead of citizens, and they loved the fact that their government had led the nation into more wars than most had even heard of. It made them better, somehow.

In the meantime, it was growing mood that had spread through-out the populous, a kind of division between Christian and non-Christian Allaneans. There were those who were Christian, and out to save souls. There were those who were or weren't Christian and didn't so much care about saving the world, or fighting against the wave of Christianity that was sweeping the nation into 'reform' of a disgustingly sinful society. And then there were those who were willing to fight against the Christians, mostly influenced by the propaganda machine that the Atheist Alliance had designed to spread malicious mis-representation of the true meaning of Christianity. That said, even those who had crafted said lies into existence, they believed them... and therefore so did those who followed on. Some people genuinely feared for their freedoms being taken away, and then an even smaller minority were willing to fire guns.

Waiting outside of the church's main door, the Steven and Greg tried to look as natural a possible. Lighting a cigarette, they posed on a nearby lawn as if they were waiting for friends, or that they had exited to church for a quick breath of non-fresh air. Wearing a sort of uniform that resembled that of light police armor, they had purchased it from a normal street. Again, not an uncommon item of clothing.

"Are you ready?" Steven asked Greg, stomping his half-smoked cigarette into the ground.

Greg followed suit and took up his gun, "As ready as I'll ever be."

Loading their weapons they ran into the entrance of the church, where a normal Sunday service was being carried out. Inside was a mostly packed crowded room, people mostly either worshiping or listening to the sermon which was being preached by a man up the front. A couple of people turned around, but it was not all that uncommon. Whether they were carrying guns or not, that might have been something different... but any reaction would not have been quick enough.

"Fuck all of you!" yelled one of the men's voice, and they opened fire. Spraying the room with lead and people falling everywhere, they ran throughout the area making sure to kill as many of the freedom-haters as possible. Men, women, children... the bullets were as indiscriminately as they had always been. This would make for Kazansky's response.

Twenty Minutes later, and long after the two men had fled the scene of the crime, a message was posted on the same website Kate had posted on some time ago.

You call for tolerance as you watch the Christians call for our freedoms to be taken away. You watch on as us Freemen are grossly more and more attacked by these freedom-hating Christians. Now I can admit, not all Christians care to steal the way we have enjoyed our lives. But as long as people such as Reverend Graham and his leadership over the churches of Allanea continue to exist, we will fight as is written, also within our rights. If anything, I will live until one very last thing is taken from me.

The right to defend myself.

These attacks will continue into the future indefinitely, until this invasion is fought from our soil, and the subjects of Christianity either lay dead, have left these lands, or have come to realize the truth of their beliefs.

Yours Sincerely,

Kate

When news of the attack had reached Malcolm of the Atheist Alliance, he issued a memo in which all staff would reply to the Press.

The Atheist Alliance denies all responsibility of organizing, undertaking, and foreknowledge of violence against Christians. We are a peaceful organization that encourages non-violent resistance only.

There would be no further comments.

Of course, everybody in Allanea is armed – or, rather, practically everybody. Of course, the attackers were almost immediately killed – literally shot apart by a crowd of angry believers. Still, they managed to kill and injure an amount of people sufficient to make the Port-Allanea Church Shooting part of the evening news.

The fact that the shooters were dead, too, made the investigation more complex – certainly they could not now tell anybody who sent them. The immediate assumption was that the killers were just a bunch of crazies, of course – and as such, as unpredictable in their acts as a hurricane or an earthquake. Still, the Port-Allanea Police Department took a few other leads, as well. They knew already that the Atheist Alliance had been denounced abroad as a terrorist organization – and that the two people had been members. A few more searches and 'Kate' was invited to the station – “...oh, no, Ma'am. Not as a suspect, you understand. Just a few questions. If you like, we will even visit you at your own home.”

James Graham, a sermon

In a nation of almost eight billion people, there's always violence somewhere. In the Outer Rim colonies Off-Earth, the Sisters of Liberty fought Chaos cultists. In Yazmarea, communist guerrillas were still popping up every now and then. And now, it seemed, a new form of violence was born, with Christians as the target.

Except, of course, this is anything but new. This has been the way of the enemies of Christ ever since His Crucifixion – Nero burned Christians at the stake, Kim Jong Il poured molten lead into their throats, Mao had them shot, and now they just attack us in our churches! But the enemies of Jesus Christ Our Lord will know soon that violence is counterproductive against our faith. Where they strike at the children of the Lord, the very martyrdom of those who die for their faith makes us stronger. From every drop of blood that hits the ground, a thousand flowers bloom.

My brothers, I implore you – not a single move of violence against the Atheist Alliance. Not a single blow of retaliation. We are the people who set up churches, schools, and hospitals. We are the people who heal people's bodies and aid their souls. Let them be the murderers and thieves. See how that helps their popularity.

Even now, as I speak, thousands are moved towards Jesus by this spectacle of martyrdom. Thousands of souls are saved...

Elsewhere in Allanea

In the meanwhile, a completely different piece of news occupied the minds of many in the nation – the acquisition of San Nereiana and Pobeda – two immense colonies, one in Arterus, and the other in Haven. One, Pobeda, was shaping up to be the site of an immense social experiment unrivaled in Allanean history. A request was sent out to all nations Allanea had contact with, suggesting that certain prisoners in these nations should be granted a choice between continued imprisonment and deportation to Pobeda, where they would begin a new life as Freemen.

The other, San Nereiana, was over fifteen thousand furlongs across, and would become the site of settlement of many Allaneans – and already, the Allanean government was distributing posters everywhere, depicting the stereotypical settler aboard a conestoga wagon and the words FIND YOURSELF A BETTER LIFE IN THE SAN NEREIANA TERRITORY!

And along with the settlers went not just the usual casino owners, brothel keepers, and such folk – but also the preachers, the pastors, the nuns and monks. Rumor had it a monastery would be built there by the Catholic Church of Allanea – but also a big Atheist Alliance headquarters.

In Alexander Kazansky's office

Of all people in Allanea, Kazansky was among those least moved by the events. He merely watched the game, bemused by the arguments both sides made – until the murderers struck. Then he dispatched a group of CREST agents to help the investigation – and returned to watching. If the Atheist Alliance - or the Christians – were willing to turn to violence, he could always crush them with ease. Otherwise, he would merely watch.

And right now, he waited for his guest.

Given that the secrecy of her true identity was crucial to Kate she read the response posted to her latest message with a chuckle. To think that the Police expected her to even reply, much less turn up or god forbid, turn herself in... it was more or less something that amused her than anything else. She even still, confident that her identity had not yet been revealed, her location remaining ever unknown in the world - it was merely presumed that her being an Allanean, that she lived in the United States themselves... which was true. Nevertheless.

Extracts from a speech made on behalf of Malcolm Ford, and the Atheist Alliance

" ... and in regards to the shootings in St. Peter's Church of Christ, I would like to officially remind you that although a thirst for violence is within our blood, we are all equal peoples. In reality, whether you believe in Christ or whether you believe in Science, it does not really matter. The concerns of this alliance are for the eroding freedoms of Allanea, and as much as Reverend Graham would like to convince you that he is a man who appreciates these, history teaches that time and time again; there is an involuntary battle between the teachings of Christ and the freedoms that we as a peoples have enjoyed for decades. Why, we only have to look at the worsening situation in Iesus Christi if you need an example.

I am aware that some of you are furthering in your anger against the Christians, or Christians against the Atheists, or even members of the Atheist Alliance. I am even aware that there have been some critisizms of the Alliance itself... labeling us as a 'terrorist organization'. Interestingly enough, these developments have come from nations who have embraced Christianity instead of freedoms. Outlawing our voices there only further proves my point that soon, your freedoms will begin a process of erosion if you do not act now.

That being said, violence against anyone where there is a peaceful alternative should not be tolerated, and I encourage any and all peoples with information to come forth to the Allanean Department of Justice, so that the true nature of the crimes we have seen committed come forth. I know that I will certainly be cooperating with the police in their investigation if called upon, and I encourage you to do the same entirely on a voluntary basis.

Furthermore, by the advances of science and human evolution, I would like to bid all citizens of Allanea prosperity... Christian or not, let's work hard to make this a better nation, and oppose anything that seeks to take away the freedoms that we have fought long and hard for... "

Offices of Alexander Kazansky

Malcolm arrived at Kazansky's office accompanied by two of his closest associates. Donning a suit imported from elsewhere, he was relaxed and confident. Upon his arrival, he checked in with the various security staff and informed the receptionist that he had an appointment with the President for Life.

Straightening his jacket, he waited patiently in closed room outide of the main hallway.

Outside of a Smaller, Local Church

"Ready... aim... fire..."

Don grinned, his white teeth becoming more apparent as it grew wider. Watching down the long barrel of his RPG-7 with just one eye, this combatant against Christianity worked alone and fast. Quickly setting himself up as discreetly as possible, he knew he would have to work quickly before somebody noticed and intervened.

Taking aim at the building entrance, he fired and didn't bother to watch the rocket hit its precious target. An explosion behind him; he ran.

In Kazansky's Office


"So… dear Sir…" – the Boy-President grinned like a Cheshire cat, throwing his feet on the table. "I believe your organization has asked me to take.. sides in this titanic struggle of yours?"

He picked out a few pages of paper from his desk. "Look. My power, legally, is extremely limited – I can veto laws, I can submit laws to Congress, and I can manage the different departments Congress creates – oh, and I can command the military. Given the limited powers of Congress itself – all they can do is raise taxes, declare war, and maintain the borders. In an emergency – and I mean a real one, like, I don't know, nuclear war – they can ask the general citizenry for help. "

There was a pause. "That's about it. And then there's a list of thirty-one things those powers cannot be used to."

"You see, it's different from what people think. Most of the time, I retain the post of President-for-Life because I don't take sides in the big struggles of Allanea's society, but remain as an impartial arbiter. I can offer advice, however."

"I suspect, personally, that the Atheist Alliance is behind this spat of violence. I am not saying this to threaten you – I am just suggesting you should stop. Frankly, it's counterproductive. It makes Graham's people look like martyrs – inflating their ranks and deflating yours. Already now the ranks of Atheist Alliance supporters in Allanea are dwindling – check your own membership rolls when you come home. Any minute now, someone will start a different atheist group and steal half your thunder. And other then that… if you continue, eventually, someone will dig up proof to link you to the murders. Then, you will be destroyed."

There was a long pause.

"Now, if you were to become a truly peaceful organization… hell, I may even help you myself. In a... private fashion, of course. There are a few secularist businessmen I know..."

Malcolm arched a brow as Alex had lost himself in a continuing momentum of whatever, before they had even spoke or greeted with one another.

"You have strong opinions," he noted when the President had finished.

"I'm afraid your accusations are mostly baseless however... with due respect President, I'm not sure what gives you the idea that either myself or the Atheist Alliance organization are behind this recent spat, as you like to call it."

Clearing his throat Malcolm continued, "In fact, my office has been working overtime to work out a solution to this problem... considering the two men identified were members of my organization." He grinned from the corner of his mouth. "Not exactly a good look if our members start going rogue like this."

"To be fair, I had actually come here to discuss where we might be able to assist you in protecting this nation. At first, the greatest threat to Allanea was an increasingly conservative peoples - putting our very freedoms at risk; the same freedoms the United States prides itself on. Then, this violence springs up, hurting my cause just as your own to protect to peace."

Malcolm folded his arms, "But, if you're just going to attack the wrong guy, I'll escort myself out as fast as I came in."

The President shrugged. "I am not attacking you, am I? See, if I'm right and you're going to take what I said to heart - well and good. If I'm right, and you continue as you are - you heard me. If I am wrong... well, I haven't yet harmed you or accused you publicly in any way. Now.... if this violence ceases or at least real and honest action is taken on your end to help, I can put you in touch with some really rich donors."

"This is all, Sir. I apologize, but I have other guests to deal with."

Malcolm mused inwardly and paused, "Oh, you have other guests."

"President, I don't want to impose on any other schedules you might have to contend with, so maybe it's best I came back at another time. I wanted to discuss this properly."

Glancing at his watch he smiled politely and offered Kazansky his hand, "I can have one of my associates contact your office to reschedule if you like. It's been good to meet with you, and although brief I do appreciate your time."

Malcolm winked, "We'll be in touch. Thank you."

A few months later

In the meanwhile, Allanea’s colonies began to be populated. In San Nereiana, the Governor had parceled out ten million land plots already to potential settlers, and the Christians were the first to move there – in fact, it seemed the new territory would be predominantly Christian, even as the Northern Haven states would lose some of their Christian population.

In Allanea entire, the percent of Christians of different denominations now stood at 17.5%.

17.5%, was still far too many for Malcolm's liking. With Kate watching over his shoulder, his every move, he certainly thought long and hard on how to fight the still rising tide of Christianity. Admittedly however, they had slowed in growth as of recent, some sign that the name of the Atheist Alliance wasn't instantly being associated with terrorism and evil, giving it some voice in the community abroad. In the colonies, offices had been established there but had not been terribly active. Aside from sending out the most standard of propaganda in the form of Direct Mailing, the entirety of the Alliance had actually taken a different approach. Seemingly it had changed it's policy, and as an additional bonus - violence against Christians had ceased.

Handing over the names and details on thirteen suspects, Malcolm had made it visible that he was 'interested' in seeing justice to those who fought against the Christians with guns blazing. They were of course arrested, and their trials had either already found them guilty or they had not yet begun. Also sending out a message of the 'true' face of the Atheist Alliance, they had started ejecting members who participated in any violence against the Christians. As a result, rallies became more peaceful - more about trying to protect the freedoms of Allanea as opposed to representing hate and demonstrations of anger. Finally, the name of the Atheist Alliance came to become somewhat of an organization with some degree of integrity.

Furthermore, new projects to spread the truth about Christianity were upstarted, and likewise some of them were closed. They spread monthly newsletters reporting on these 'truths', mostly filled with news of corruption within the church, instances or stories of sexual abuse, a section dedicated to 'God verses Science', and then some random pieces of World News where the church might be able to be blamed for starting it, or fueling the fire. Some of these focused on the plight of the Christi's beneath a seemingly crazed religious and conservative government, serving as a warning to all Allaneans to be careful. The true objective, was to be firstly seen as a credible source of information, and then to associate the forces of Christ with fear and human evilness. Not that the Christians themselves were evil; they were merely misled themselves. A key difference to note in the meantime, was that the Freedom Monthly Report - popularly called the FMR for short, did not only report only on the Christian threat, but other threats to Allanean freedoms also. They were the National Rifle Association of Allanea, except for their general freedoms instead of guns, although the right to bear arms was also included within this.

Only one last thing to deal with.

From: Malcolm Ford, President of the Atheist Alliance
To: Reverend James Graham
Subject Re: Procedures against me.

Thank you for contacting me with regards to suing me for apparent slander, I have contacted my lawyers also, and apologize for my delayed response. I await further details on the time and date when I am to appear in court, all further contact will go through our lawyers.

Signed,

Malcolm Ford
President of the Atheist Alliance

In Court

And so, the court sits. It looks not unlike a regular courtroom in Old America, except without the cross. However, there is an Allanean flag unwrapped behind the judge, and on the wall – a painting of a bald eagle in flight, the national symbol of Allanea. There's a pair of Jefferson County Sherrif's Deputies standing in the room. They wear no uniforms except shining six-pointed stars and the traditional ten-gallon hats. They also carry large revolvers and rifles. Then again, they're not the only ones. Every man in the courtroom is likely 'packing heat', from the judge and down to the attorneys representing both sides. There's no weapon checks, of course – but everybody knows that they better not start any trouble.

The judge, as it usually happens, accepts various technical requests from both sides – and denies some, too. Then, he speaks:

“The court will please rise.”

The cops click their heels together, grabbing their CAR-15 rifles at port-arms.

The audience, and the judge himself, simply rise as the jury enters the room.

Allanea has no jury selection of course – that is, the jury is merely screened for direct relation with both sides by the judge. Direct relatives of Reverend Graham, and employees of Atheist Alliance would be prohibited from being part of the jury – otherwise, all is fair game. The resulting jury is a case study in Allanean behavior and fashion – a couple of girls in black-and-white goth makeup and black clothing, an elderly gentleman in a fursuit, two dock workers in jeans and T-shirts, a lawyer wearing a tie and nothing else, a Noldo wearing the latest Vinyatirion fashion, two people who look like bikers, a Dohwar with a long, polished beak, and a Valaquine – and, finally, a jury foreman that'd make Barbara Adams jealous with the quality of his 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' outfit. It even has a working phaser.

“Jurors, you are instructed by this court to judge the law and the facts of the case, and to find according to your conscience...” - the judge drones on.

After the brief instruction, the plaintiff's attorney makes his opening speech.

It focuses on the obvious – on how all public speeches by Graham are documented, and how the Church records all the meetings of it's leadership – and on how he had never said what he had been accused of saying, and how he had always said just the contrary.

“And now, the defense attorney will please...”

Michelle Chamberlane stood to her feet as she opened to the correct page, quickly skimming over it and memorizing it's details. She was an expert, and was paid millions for her job.

"Ladies, Gentlemen, Queergender of the Honorable Jury," she flashed a warm smile as Malcolm sat in his seat. "As you probably know already, you have been selected at random as a team of jurors to decide the fate of this trial. By agreeing to come here today, you have agreed to make an impartial decision on the case of Graham vs Ford, probably a very important case for a lot of people."

"Many of you have watched the news, and may already have taken sides in the Christian vs Atheist argument. Not one thing has come into doubt however - your role here today is to find out the truth, and then award a victory to he who speaks it."

She shrugged, leaning against the bench closest to them. "In whatever side who speaks it." She began to pace the floor of the courtroom. "Ladies and Gentlemen, Queergender, I will present to you today a case of irrefutably. Reverend Graham is here today to prove that Mr. Malcolm Ford made false claims that he and his Christian Leadership were out to remove the freedoms of Allaneans, and will probably present to you a series of recordings where no such claims have been made. And he's right! I have listened to every single one of these recordings personally - Reverend Graham has not said the aforementioned even once on these tapes."

She smiles again, "But he's wrong about one thing... At the Second Annual Meeting for Atheist Alliance Members, Mr. Malcolm Ford did not make any such claim. In fact, he deliberately worded his speech so that it would avoid making false statements, if in the case that they were."

"Judge $name, Members of the Jury, I wish to present to you my first piece of evidence."

Michelle wheeled around, handing out photocopied copies of a report, written much closer to the beginning of Allanea's Christianizing. Graham had only been knew to Allanea at this time, but understood it's social network well. On this particular page she was handing out, was an article entitled 'Jesus Christ - Friend or Foe?'. As the jury (and judge) quietly read the article, they would have noticed a small portion highlighted.

It read:
... An anonymous source came to me from within the church's leadership. Let's call him Adam for naming purposes only - his name actually wasn't. Adam, who's true identity will remain hidden at his request, told me about a time one day when he was walking down the halls, when he rounded a corner and could hear the voice of Mr. Graham. Wandering further, he confirmed it with his own eyes and without actually meaning to, began to listen into a conversation which absolutely shocked ever cell in his body.

'I will outlaw gambling, I will outlaw any kind of sexual deviance that threatens our humanity. And if it takes it, I will even outlaw the gun.'

It is safe to now presume that Adam is no longer a member or follower of Reverend Graham's crusades...

After being satisfied that everyone had finished reading this, Michelle waited a few more seconds before moving into her next piece of evidence.

"I would also like to submit a second piece of evidence to the courtroom," she noted handing out a second round of papers."

This time, they were a transcript of the speech that Ford had given at the meeting. Highlighted, was the portion that was coming into question.

"To put it blunt, this rise of Christianity is a danger to us all. So long as people like Reverend Graham still preach to convert the millions, the more conservative the people get, and that my friends attacks the very fundamentals of our civil rights. See this continue, and you will see laws against what we have been doing for centuries starting to come to our government's legislative function. Friends, it is only a matter of time. Reverend Graham is even quoted as saying, 'I will outlaw gambling, I will outlaw any kind of sexual deviance that threatens our humanity. And if it takes it, I will even outlaw the gun.' Can you believe this?"

"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Honorable Jury, I simply need to point out one simple fact. At no point did the defendant say that 'Reverend Graham even said this...', nor did he say that 'Reverend Graham is claiming that'... he simply stated fact, 'Reverend Graham is even quoted as saying...'", she pauses, and takes the moment to pick up the first piece of evidence. "Which is true! He was quoted by this report as having said these things. Furthermore, if this article is correct in its claims against Reverend Graham, then would you likely think that a hallway conversation is going to be recorded?"

She snorted and shook her head in an almost disbelief.

"People of the courtroom, if we are going to start persecuting people for speaking the truth... if we are going to be silencing the masses from honoring their opinions, then Allanea is treading down a very dangerous path indeed."

She wandered to the Jury and stood before them. "It is for these very reasons, that I emplore all of you to find Mr. Malcolm Ford Not Liable, in the case of Graham vs Ford. Did Mr. Ford misquote or lie in his Second Annual Speech? No. Was he speaking the truth? Yes."

"I rest my case."

"Ladies and gentlemen of the jury!" – Graham burst out – "What you just heard is nothing but legalistic cartwheeling, an insult to both man's law and God's! It is-"

He said no further.

But at least, he would not lose the case.

As he spoke those words, a man rose from the audience, wielding a weapon – an open-bolt submachinegun, the kind of gun a farmer's workshop will pump out if he's too paranoid to order a gun from the Internet. It is a simple design, rather reminiscent of a 1940's 'Greasegun'.

It fires loudly, the rough home-made barrel sending sparks and flames everywhere when the gunman pulls the trigger. Only maybe one in three bullets hits Graham, but that's more then enough when you're talking about a forty-round magazine of immense, half-inch-caliber soft-point bullets.

Graham is still alive as the sheer power of the shots throws him back, slamming him into the painting with the eagle on it. He slides down to the floor, leaving a disturbing red trace upon the painting.

"Ha! Die, christofascist! Die!" – the gunman is smart enough to only utter his comment now, as he draws a snubnosed revolver. The shot hits Graham's lawyer square in the forehead.

And then, all hell breaks lose. People rush to cover, others try to fire at the gunman, yet others to restrain him. The man himself ducks behind the witness stand, and so a struggle begins.

"Fu-!" yelps Ford as he throws himself to the ground. Michelle, his lawyer having just returned to her seat followed suit, and both hid themselves beneath the table they had been sitting at. Watching with eyes wide open, they watched as Reverend Graham and his lawyer fell... presumerably injured or dead. Blood started to trickle out from both victims, crossing the courtroom floor.

"Where the fuck is security?" hissed Michelle under her breath.

Malcolm didn't respond, but simply gulped as the gunman hid behind the witness box. He presumed; or he hoped, that he too was not an intended target.

The entire exchange took just a few seconds – and just as Michelle uttered her question, the County Policeman, the judge, and several jurors opened up, tearing the gunman, the heavy witness stand, the defense table all apart with a hail of bullets, and even a single grenade someone chucked over the witness stand.

When it was over, the gunman lacked half a jaw, a lung, and a kidney, and there were several massive holes in his chest, too.

As the noise died down, the judge dropped his Glock pistol onto the table in front of him and wiped the cold sweat from his brow. "Eh… I believe we need to adjourn..."

News of the ordeal wasted no time to travel, the Allanean News Network being first on the scene, followed by many others hoping to cover the event. Likewise, information made its way to international networks, and then beyond also rather quickly. Back at the courthouse however, both a very shaken Malcolm Ford and Michelle Chamberlane sat on the steps outside. Only just recovering from their ordeal, members of the press had been turned away and they answered questions as best as possble to local police forces, who too were quick to appear at the scene.

"I don't know what to think," blurted Malcolm, staring into space ahead. "Has Graham been murdered? Is he dead? What the fuck."

Michelle frowned, "I can't answer those questions for you Malcolm. If he is alive, let's hope that science is able to save his life. If not, then he died believeing in something. That's more than we can say for most people, the majority have become so confused by this."

Sighing loudly, Malcolm sunk his head beneath his knees as if in depression.

"There is nothing I can do to stop this violence."

Posted on a Popular Website
So it seems that an attempt has been made on Graham's life. If he is dead, then I would like to congratulate the person who took up on my challenge. If he is not, then so be it - but there is always next time.

Let this serve as a warning for all of the conservatives, we will not tolerate leaders who wish to steal away our freedoms. You will not silence us, the sounds of gunfire will be deafening.

Yours Sincerely,

Kate

But Graham was dead, of course. You don't live after being hit with such firepower, at least not for long. Of course, there would be an investigation. It would not help much – the shooter was not connected in any way with the Atheist Alliance, for a change. He was a loner – no girlfriend since age fifteen, no sexual contact since age seventeen – his diary established these things. He lived in an appartment in Liberty-City – a horrible three-room thing, the hallmark of the dregs of Allanean society or of weirdos who actually like appartment.

According to the diary found, he was almost completely mad, blaming his shortcomings in the personal sphere on 'religion' making the local women not willnig enough to share men's beds – in particular, his bed. To make such an allegation in Allanea was of course... insane.

Nobody knew whether it was truly 'Kate' that drove him to the murder, nor did anybody care. He was a madman. It is a necessary part of life, an Allanean would argue, that sometimes madmen attack normal people. You shoot them, but you can't prevent 'the next church shooting', except maybe by putting up more guards. Such is life.

Graham, of course, was an instant martyr, and the popularity of the Christians grew still. Soon, twenty percent of the population would be baptised. What Graham could not do in life, his martyrdom did for him in death.

And yet, secretly, his heirs were bothered.

How long could the Church grow without its biggest advocate?

An Article from Freedom Monthly Report...

Deadly to be a Christian
Page 12, Freedom Monthly Report

As time draws weary, and the tide of Christianity nears a stage of twenty percent state of mission completed, it has become increasingly apparent that Allaneans do not want their freedoms becoming eroded. Quoted on multiple occasions to desire banning the gun, freemen took to the streets in mostly peaceful demonstration almost on a weekly basis. And as the air would tension, so would the murder of Christians increased.

Some one-hundred Christians have died at the hands of self-proclaimed 'protectors of freedom'. From church shootings, to the occasional seemingly random murder, to the assasination of Reverend Graham; one message has become clear from the bulk of the Allanean populous.

"We don't want no Conservatives..."

In the meantime, as the amount of christians increase in the United States, so does the voting power formerly popular MPs, along with their formerly not-so-popular counterparts. Incredibly, the increasing power of the Conservative have already begun to put pressure on Parliament, with questions already rising on whether this 'freedom of arms' is really safe.

Evidence, that Malcolm Ford says, that threats to the Allanean lifestyle have already began.

As head of the Atheist Alliance, he has publically condemned the conservatives for placing pressure on state authorities to place further restrictions on Allanean liberties on multiple occasions - unfortunately to little avail, the Christians keep on coming, and the voting power of the conservative sectors keep on getting stronger.

In the meantime, the sudden appearance of Christianity in Allanea has sparked more violence than ever experienced in recent times. Services by Churches are now watched over by Armed Guards--where they can afford it. In the meantime, social division continues as both the government and Atheist Alliance desperately cooporate to increase reconcilation between all parties, urging anti-conservatives to hate the religion, not the people themselves.

"Violence," Malcolm urges. "Should only be used if your life is threatened. Only then should you ever draw and fire, otherwise, what makes you different from the common murderer?"

It is interesting to note that the Christians have done very little to help prevent this violence from occuring, nor have they taken heed to the Allanean concerns.

"I've lived this kind of life since birth," cries one Allanean. "And then they think they have the right to accuse me of being sinful, and of the devil?"

Others express similar concerns.

It seems that the only true concern that Atheists and non-Christians have are for their civil liberties. The freedom to carry and conceal armed weapons. The freedom of free speech. The freedom of sexual preference, without persecution. The freedom of public nudity is another, just to name a few.

Malcolm Ford has encouraged all Allaneans to unite, to send these conservatives back where they came from.

"As a legal freeman, I cannot stand by and watch as these people try to destroy the very fundamentals of our lifestyle. The only thing that makes us any different from Iesus Christi is the fact that we love our freedoms. But then, if the people of Allanea don't mind living under a system of state oppression and perpetual fear, then all the more to them."

When asked of the Freedom of Religion, he answered transparently.

"I believe in the freedom to follow any religion of one's choosing. Heck, one of my sons is even a Jedi. But what worries me most is the kind of power these people have in the voting electorate. Christianity by nature breeds a conservative outlook... give enough of these, and all of a sudden a few MPs gain a few million extra votes... votes they need to overturn legislature, or pass them. All of a sudden, guns have been banned. All of a sudden, homosexuality is banned. Sodomy, blasphamy, freedom of speech restricted. I fight for the common Allanean, because this is the common Allanean."

"Unfortunately, I don't have any other suggestions as to how we might be able to better manage this tide of Christianity, on how we can protect our freedoms from being any further curbed by these people. So the only way we can prevent the worst, is to teach people the truth about Christianity. And it is hateful, racist, sexist, anti-abortionist, anti-homosexualist. They condemn you, they hate you, but they will accept you... if only to boost turnouts at the local church. They don't care for your soul, you are a sinful son of a bitch who can go to hell for all they care."

He shrugged, "It's a business, like anything else. And they want only two things. Money, and the power to control you. Because once they have both of these, they control the nation."

"Take note of the countless examples in history, my fellow Freeman," he winked. "Enough evidence you should be afraid?"