Farmina comes to Talk [Closed]
The rain had stopped but the ground was still mud. The Farminan and his two body guards walked up towards the hilltop, towards the ruined Cathedral.
The Farminan wore a long, black trench coat; not a normal Farminan style; but, this wasn’t Farminan weather. He raised his hand, and his two guards paused where they stood.
The Farminan continued up the hill to the memorial. Lesser Chancellor Brie had been ordered here as a quick visit. He had been the closest, and a favorite of the Grand Chancellor.
Talks would not end here; but then again, they might not even begin.
OOC: I have no plan of invading you; especially with my full force.
OOC: I should have been more clear. The ruined cathedral is located here (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=393987). I get what I deserve for posting so late at night. Since it's not my country, how would you like to deal with this? In the meantime...
IC:
Raijin was confused. I remember telling their leader that we were going to Tanah Burung to participate in their ritual. But these communication logs! They're missing that. Did the relay skip over part of my transmission? Great Gods, now what?!
"Father," Raijin said, looking at Varik, Scientific leader for Krioval. "I'll need your help fixing the transmitter."
---------
Four hours later, the transmitter was fully operational. Good, Raijin thought. No more skips in my messages. I hope this was the only time it happened.
***begin transmission***
To the most honored Justinian, leader of Farmina. It appears that we suffered a transmitter error last night due to equipment failure brought on by inclement weather. The ruined Cathedral we are to visit is located in Tanah Burung, and the date for the memorial is yet being finalized. However, if you are journeying already to Krioval, I will notify the Catholic Bishop of your arrival. We can comfortably host your delegation either in our capital, Torokara, or in the predominantly Catholic district of Bralos. If other arrangements are required, please notify my foreign minister at your earliest convenience.
Chancellor Raijin Dekker
Armed Republic of Krioval
***end transmission***
Silently, the High Council collectively hoped that this miscommunication wouldn't lead to the conflict they had so desperately worked to avert. But then, the Gods will what they will.
We are well aware of that. Our delegate is already in Tanah Burung. Has he made contact yet.
-Grand Chancellor Vernis
OOC: Much roomier having a thread to ourselves.
Justinian was a Byzantine Emporer.
He is also a Farminan one.
Please don't post on closed threads, some less forgiving people might get annoyed with you.
OOC: Yeah, if one wants in on a "closed" discussion, I think at the very least one should contact the people involved in the discussion (either to accept or deny your participation, or redirect your attention to a new thread).
OOC: To speed this up.
IC: "I am Chancellor Brie, representative of Farmina, I was told to meet you here."
We are well aware of that. Our delegate is already in Tanah Burung. Has he made contact yet.
I admit I'm a bit confused, Grand Chancellor Vernis. Has the Bishop of Tanah Burung already begun to admit people to the region? The delegation of Krioval was informed that the ceremony was not to be held for several days yet, and we Kriovalians do not usually enter a war zone uninvited and stay without permission from the governing representatives there. For a small country such as ours, that would be to invite far too much unnecessary attention - attention that could result in the upset in balance among our population.
If your delegate is already there, perhaps we could be told how best our modest donation could be best placed to assist in reconstruction. And, of course, our invitation to Krioval remains open. I pray for your success against the Calvinists. Your nation, at least, is tolerant of differing opinions outside your own borders, as is ours.
Foreign Minister Vardun Kital
OOC: Can we just get on with this, I really have no interest about Cathedrals in Tanah Burung.
OOC: Right then.
IC:
I am Commander Raijin Dekker. What is it that you wish to discuss?
"Commander, your government has annoyed Justinian beyond all reasonable levels,” said the Lesser Chancellor, “The Grand Chancellor has sent me to try and make an arrangement behind Justinian’s back. If the agreement is reasonable, the Grand Chancellor should be able to diffuse Justinian, who has a lot on his plate with what is happening in Mississippi.”
If it's a matter of supporting Catholicism, we already do. The Catholic Cathedral in Bralos is fully maintained by the Kriovalian government as arranged between the High Council and Bishop Selevar. As to the conflict between Farmina and Mississippi, if Krioval were to become involved, not that I want that to occur, we'd obviously choose your side. I'm even empowered to offer trade agreements so long as they don't inherently compromise our neutrality. In short, Chancellor Brie, while my country may be democratic, it is ultimately me who decides the fate of Krioval. I'd like to choose growth and prosperity, if at all possible.
(Raijin)
"That’s very well," said the Lesser Chancellor, "But could you just sign here and we will be done."
He pulled out a small document and handed it to the Commander.
Surrender of Sovereignty
The nation of Krioval hereby recognizes itself to be part of the sovereign Holy Farminan Empire,
The Holy Farminan Empire will recognizes the right of Krioval’s existing institutions to maintain their management of the territories of Krioval,
The administration of Krioval hereby recognizes there is only one true religion and that it the pure religion of the Grey Catholic Church which shall be in itself the law,
The administration of Krioval will submit before the High Priests of Farmina in issues relating to religion.
"We can always negotiate on minor details if your please," added the Chancellor.
Raijin looked at the document with obvious disdain. The look didn't change in the slightest as he regarded the Chancellor of Farmina. Without betraying the slightest emotion, Raijin spoke:
"I'm not one for diplomatic crap anyway. Fact is, apparently you've misjudged my personal appearance as one of weakness. That is a tremendous mistake. The last time someone made that mistake was six years ago, and it was the corrupted High Priest. I killed him with my bare hands. Ripped his heart out of his chest if you must know."
He drew a breath before continuing.
"I have no doubt your country could overtake mine. Granted, we've got enough tech to hold you off for a few months, maybe some parts'd keep for a year. Now, would your empire really want to bother itself occupying a technologically advanced, totally resistant population while fighting a war that's about to explode on multiple fronts, some with countries three times your size? Further, would you risk the international community, especially countries based strongly on democracy, to simply allow the seizure as if nothing's out of the ordinary? You strike me as an intelligent man, Chancellor Brie. I pray that I've not been incorrect in that assessment."
OOC: If I'm going to be pulled into what looks like an unwinnable war, I'd probably have to get amazingly creative just to keep it remotely interested. I'm not really interested in RPing the fall of my nation.
"Absolutely not," said the Chancellor, "We have no interest in fighting a war with you, but neither do you. I am offering you a chance to keep all your power and dignity. If there is war you will be allowed none of these. If you are part of Farmina we can protect you from the likes of Mississippi. We offer you the world, not take it away."
OOC: :breathes normally again:
IC:
"That document is unacceptable. Krioval follows the Gods who have watched over us since the dawn of time. We can no more accept the dominance of your faith than your citizens can accept ours. Every Kriovalian understands the price for our national freedom. For me to sign it away would simply be dishonorable - to the Gods, to my country, and to the vows I took when I became a Paladin, one of our faithful fighters. I know the spirit of Krioval. That's why I've told you why a ground war would be a disaster. I truly believe that every man, woman, and even most children would willingly die to protect their homes.
"When giants enter into combat, it usually is wise for mere mortals like myself to await further developments. If your country is unwilling to invade us, I have serious doubts that I pose a strong threat to Mississippi, and that we will likely be brushed off as a mere pest. If Krioval is overtaken, I wonder how long adversaries will keep their eyes away from us. Will our land forever become a prize in a titanic struggle, soaked in the blood of the innocent? I can't allow that, and I can't submit to a foreign authority of my free will.
Raijin sighed. The negotiations were finally taking their toll on his stamina.
"I am unable to continue for much longer. Your delegation is welcome to remain in Krioval for as long as you believe these talks will be productive. But unfortunately, I have about twenty other 'brush fires' to deal with before dawn breaks. What is your decision?"
"I shall stay on here," said Brie, "There is but one true God; and he must be brought to your people."
"I will make arrangements with Vardun Kital to assist you in any ways that do not compromise the national integrity of Krioval. He is one of the most capable political minds among my people and I trust that he will be able to handle nearly all of your needs in Krioval. If you'd like, I can arrange a meeting between you and Bishop Selevar. The region of Chaotica has few Catholics, so I'm sure he'd welcome the chance to discuss matters of faith with visitors. I warn you, though, that he is very liberal in his social views, and that may be off-putting. Enjoy your stay."
"I will make arrangements with Vardun Kital to assist you in any ways that do not compromise the national integrity of Krioval. He is one of the most capable political minds among my people and I trust that he will be able to handle nearly all of your needs in Krioval. If you'd like, I can arrange a meeting between you and Bishop Selevar. The region of Chaotica has few Catholics, so I'm sure he'd welcome the chance to discuss matters of faith with visitors. I warn you, though, that he is very liberal in his social views, and that may be off-putting. Enjoy your stay."
"Very well, but remember this," said the Lesser Chancellor, "I am one of the very few things between you and Justinian. Farminan executions are known to be painful."
"Very well, but remember this," said the Lesser Chancellor, "I am one of the very few things between you and Justinian. Farminan executions are known to be painful."
"As have been Kriovalian ones - at least in times past. May your heart beat strong."
Raijin bowed to the Lesser Chancellor and walked in the direction of the Krioval Parliament. I just hope this doesn't blow up in everybody's face, he thought, and the remainder of his journey was consumed by thoughts on how such a small nation could attract the attention of such large ones. Maybe this globalization thing is really here to stay, ya know?
OOC: sorry about the delay.
IC: The next morning the Lesser Chancellor sat in his hotel room, eating his crumpets.
"Waiter," he called out, "Telegram this to Commander Raijin will you,” holding up the message and a large wad of cash.
To Most Esteemed Commander,
The Farminan fleet is mobilising as these words are before you. I offer you an escape. However I expand our offer, you will maintain you sovereignty as long as unite under Justinian’s banner.
-Lesser Chancellor Brie
Raijin was furious, and all Krioval could sense it. How did this manage to get to this point? He felt a presence inside his mind. Tara.
Raijin? The Kriovalian Goddess of Fate's voice boomed in his mind.
What are my options, Great One?
The Goddess's thoughts sounded like laughter before coalescing. You could always renounce us.
Real options.
Demand something from him. Or better yet, have Melena take something from him. Justinian is mortal, after all.
I'd rather not go around killing other nations' leaders.
Only as a last resort, Raijin. But remember the lesson of Branok Dova. A man is felled when his heart is removed. Never forget the source of the blessings over this nation. And never forget our promise to always protect you so long as your faith endures.
The vision ended. Raijin called out to Vardun. "Find the Lesser Chancellor Brie and bring him to Council chambers. We will discuss exactly what Farmina can and cannot do, and what Krioval will or will not do."
OOC: There's likely to be a *huge* lag before my next post. It's going on midnight, and I'll likely not be on again until one or two in the afternoon tomorrow. Sorry.
Lesser Chancellor Brie had used the mobilisation to his full advantage.
Now he had been summoned.
That meant two things; they had an offer or they were going to make him a hostage. Justinian didn't take well to being threatened, but it didn't mean he didn't take threats to heart.
As he thought these thoughts; he was brought into the Council Chambers.
As always, the Watchers are watching...
OOC: Hellfire! I knew there was one bit of NS business I'd been forgetting. Stupid RL getting in the way. Anyway, if there's any desire to move this forward...
IC:
On some sadistic level, Raijin had enjoyed the last several days. He had summoned the Farminan delegation only to inform them that Parliament had deadlocked on the issue, which was technically true. The Chancellor had leaned hard on the conservative Senators to keep the matter of diplomatic relations between the two countries from reaching a vote. Serves them right for that damn "sign your rights over" bit of paper. But even Raijin knew that people had limits. Days of hard negotiations with other countries, thoughts of evacuating, or worse, being forced to defend Krioval, had made him extremely sleep-deprived
He met with the delegation from Farmina. "Parliament has approved, narrowly, the go-ahead for diplomatic relations between our countries, and they'll let me set trade agreements as long as national security is respected. I've been told by both the Conservatives and the Liberals that any mention of alliance won't make it out of committee, and it'd just embarrass the hell out of everybody if we pushed it too hard right now. Is that workable?"
(OOC: I can understand if you'd like to ignore all this too. It's been insane for the past three days.)
"I would like to know how workable and embarassing the Farminan fleet off your coast would be," said the Lesser Chancellor.
"We shall accept your trade but we need more, a promise that you will protect your citizens from themselves, in compliance with Grey Catholic law."
Raijin looked at the Farminan representative impassively. He then looked at his fellow Councillors. He spoke brusquely, and with a tone that allowed for no failure.
"Kiv. Proceed to alert level three. Curfews in the major cities, extra guards in Parliament, and seal all government buildings including the temples. And tell the palace guards to lock down this floor."
"Vardun. Contact Darvek and Adele in Canada. Tell them to update the Commonwealth on our current status with these negotiations."
"Varik. Go with General Andros and ensure that all our military equipment, including those shield prototypes are in working order."
"Melena, do your thing."
"Jevo, I'll need you to check up on our treasury and trade agreements with other nations and have a report in my hands within two hours."
Having issued orders, Raijin looked back at the Farminan Chancellor. Make or break time, he thought.
"Ah," he sighed. "We're finally alone. Now then, does your country have a reasonable proposition for us? You know, one that doesn't involve me signing over my country to a theocracy?"
“Perhaps you don’t realize, you have very little leverage in this situation,” said the Lesser Chancellor, “As I speak, transports fill with men and weapons; you may check the satellite feed if you wish.”
“I give you one choice; you keep everything, if you open the doors to our church and make it the official state religion.”
Raijin spoke as calmly as he could, under the circumstances. "Chancellor Brie, our position improves on an hourly basis. We are hardly your primary target, and we would simply divert resources away from your planned campaigns in more strategic regions. The people here threaten to resist indefinitely any association with Christian theocracy. If you don't know why that is, I refer you to our histories (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=395359). We have allies. We are technologically advanced, some are genetically modified, and one in twenty is a functioning psionic*." As if in response, a book lifted off the table briefly before falling. "Finally, we have a small but serviceable stockpile of nuclear weapons. We've gone from electricity eighty years ago to genetic engineering today. While I'm sure your Emperor's armies could overtake us, I ensure you it will be neither be cheap nor easy."
He paused. "Exactly what is it about your foreign policy that requires far-flung republics to convert to theocracy, anyway? It's an alien concept to us here. I mean, it would never actually reach the masses of people down there," Raijin gestured to the window, "but would be a surface conversion only. I've read about your God, and sincere belief cannot be had by force of will or force of logic. It defies those things. Surely you know this, Chancellor Brie. So, how can you expect the people of Krioval to become hypocrites, unable to believe except out of fear of corporeal torment?"
OOC: The allies were a recent development (and therefore may not materialize), but they do now exist. The psionic thing is something I've planned, and I figure it can be handled as any weapon or defense; it helps, but it's not the be-all, end-all of existence. That said, if you think that I'd likely be unable to RP it correctly, we should find some OOC way to avoid the war entirely, since psionics are the "hook" that make RPing Krioval even remotely interesting to me.
OOC2: I really really wish we were in even remotely similar time zones. This posting right before bed thing is gonna kill me! :headbang:
OOC: Basically, I see Krioval as willing to accept a branch of your church (free religious choice and all that), but since they've already got a state religion, that's going to be the sticking point. Sorry if I've been ambiguous on that point in the past.
"If you were to abandon your current state religion, condemn it and allow Grey Catholism to flourish freely then we have a deal," said the Chancellor, "If not we have war."
"Is it the habit of Farminan delegations to avoid direct questions? Or is it simply imperialistic, rather that religious, matters that impel your longing for conquest? In any case, I see no reason to condemn over ninety-four percent of my population. Krioval will continue to offer a trade and non-aggression pact, and we are willing to initiate true diplomatic contact. And we would like to hear answers to our questions, for a change."
"It is better but not enough, it is church dominance we seek," said the Lesser Chancellor.
"Then I am afraid I will have to disappoint you. There is room enough for one state religion of Krioval, and I already lead it. While you or any other person may freely practice any faith, within reason, inside these borders, I am unwilling and unable to dispose of the faith of my ancestors with the stroke of a pen. I suggest you choose another target for your imperialistic ambitions, and leave the business of Kriovalian government to Kriovalians."
"If that is the case, then I must return to Farmina immediately," said the Lesser Chancellor, "If you decide you don't want to be obliterated, contact the Lesser Chancellor."
"I think you might want to stay for a while," the Commander said, eyes practically glowing. "I'm expecting a message from a dear friend of mine any minute."
OOC: I gave permission for a defensive ally to post briefly here. I hope that's not outside the "rules of engagement," so to speak.
"No, I shall leave. Direct your messages to Grand Chancellor Vernis, I have had enough of your foolishness," said the Lesser Chancellor, "Military matters are no concern of mine."
With that Brie moved towards the door.
OOC: Thats fine.
"If I were you, and I'm most definitely not, being both democratic and polytheist, I wouldn't go out that way. It appears that Kiv has 'misinterpreted' the word 'curfew' to mean 'allow an angry mob to assemble in downtown Torokara. I'll make sure to give him quite the tongue-lashing tonight - I just hope he doesn't enjoy it as much as last time."
Raijin shook his head to dispel those kinds of thoughts. No need to make the poor Chancellor more flustered than he already is. "If you'd like to get out without being mauled or worse, go out *that* door and speak to the guards there. They'll arrange transportation to our borders. Tell Chancellor Vernis that I look forward to discussing this further, even if it's a formality at this point."
"I suggest that you have no intention to discuss just refuse," said the Lesser Chancellor, "You have until I return to Farmina to prove otherwise; unless you wish all further negotiations to involve bombs and mortars."
The Lesser Chancellor proceeded towards the other door.
The Lesser Chancellor returned to Farmina and fleet never came to Krioval.
Farmina had been bluffing.
OOC: Unfortunately you called my bluff, luckly for you I was bluffing.
OOC: I'd had my hopes. But I did have a few stunts I could've pulled. :cool: I'm just glad I didn't have to improvise a war thread before I was done with character development. And who knows, maybe we'll cross paths again, ya know?
Maybe but I shall bring the hammer, I don't want to get a reputation of being a serial bluffer.