NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This is OPEN, so please post. If you find my first post boring, skip it; its just a linking device.
IC:

FNN: Election Watch

“That’s another polling area reporting a 33% swing away from the Conservative block Sarah,” said John, one FNN’s political reporters.

“Emperor Justinian won’t sleep easy tonight,” replied Sarah, his co-host.

“For those of you just tuning in, this is FNN’s Election Watch, and we are seeing a massive swing away from the major block, the Conservatives and the opposition block, Labour.”

“The real winners tonight are the extreme left and right blocks,” added Sarah.

“I don’t think that’s entirely true,” replied John, “Conservatives may manage to hold the balance of power in all the Councils.”

“I doubt it,” replied Sarah, “The remaining areas would need to perform a lot better for the Conservatives, and I don’t see that happening. In fact another electoral area has just came in with similar results again.”

“Well I did predict a big swing towards to the Fascist block,” said John, “Especially the Nationalist Party. They have really stirred up the working class, who have resented recent economic reforms.”

“The Socialists of course are the other big winner, but not nearly as many gains as the Fascist Block,” said Sarah, “Also picking up a great deal of disgruntled workers. The Labour Block is really going to come out of this sore. Their vote has more than halved.”

“The Military Block’s vote has continued to decline. The Liberal vote was also stable,” added John.

“I’m now getting more specific reports,” said Sarah, “Conservative losses have been heaviest among members of the chancellery, who are appointed by Emperor Justinian. This will be sending a message quite clear to the Emperor, ‘We don’t like your appointees’.”

“If the vote continues like this, I’d say that we are going only see legislation passed if the Conservatives and Fascists agree. No other combination is large enough or logical enough to push through legislation.”

“I don’t know John, the Socialists are pretty close to having that kind of power,” pointed out Sarah.

“If that occurs, I doubt the Conservatives would deal with a block the Emperor and the Grand Chancellor have so distinctly slandered. But after election, the Emperor is going to go over the Socialist’s policies and members with a fine toothcomb, executing any one of them he finds out of line. Then he will appoint Conservatives to take their seats,” said John.

“I take your point,” said Sarah, “As we speak, Grand Chancellor Peter Vernis is preparing to make a speech, so we shall cross live to the Conservative Conference Hall.”


“My fellow Farminans, Catholics and Conservatives. We have had the worst election result in the history of the Conservative Block. My own party’s vote, the Catholic Conservative party’s vote, is down 50%. I hereby concede that we will lose our majority of in the Councils. As head of the Conservative block, and the Catholic Conservative Party, I was running two separate election campaigns, one for my block and one for my party, all while running the country. I shall have the rules changed so no Conservative can lead a block and a party. We shall make no recommendations regarding the new chancellery as we deserve none. I shall not run again in the next election and shall be resigning as head of the Conservative blick. I concede our failings lie in the end with me. I ask for one promise from my fellow Conservatives, that we shall allow this to happen, NEVER AGAIN.”

“NEVER AGAIN,” echoed the crowd.


“That was Grand Chancellor Vernis at the Conservative Conference hall,” said Sarah, “Although he may not be for much longer.”

“A new era for Farmina?” asked John.

“Perhaps,” replied Sarah, “Perhaps. For now we have another electoral area…”

The following afternoon:

Farmina Times

FINAL COUNCIL ELECTION RESULTS

Conservative: 41% of the seats
Fascist: 25% of the seats
Socialist: 13% of the seats
Labour: 8% of the seats
Liberal: 7% of the seats
Military: 2% of the seats
Other: 4% of the seats

NB: The above statistics adjust for the Socialists arrested for crimes against Farmina during the day.

Pages 3-8: Our full election analysis

Six days later:

Farmina Times

VERNIS DISMISSED, FASCISTS TO HELP FORM GOVERNMENT

In a shock move Emperor Justinian has dismissed Grand Chancellor Peter Vernis and promised to include the fascists in the new government. Speculation continues on what caused the move, but it is believed to be related to the recent election result…



One day before:

In the marble halls of the Imperial palace, two very powerful men met.

“Ah, Emperor, it is a pleasure,” began the short dark haired man.

“I assure you it is not, and certainly not my choice,” replied Justinian, “But I can not ignore a party with 25% of the seats.”

“You are right Emperor, but 25% is not enough,” said Dan Rickhart, “We Fascists want chancellors; we want to be part of the new government.”

“Rubbish,” replied Justinian, “I have the right to share my executive power with whom I wish.”

“Ah, but it iss not rubbish,” said Rickhart, “With 25% of the population behind us, we could cause a lot of trouble in riots. Don’t even think of crushing us, as the military and their party would be first to align with us.”

“How dare you threaten me!” said Justinian, “I am God’s ruler of Farmina, dare you defy God.”

“Politics is an ungodly business,” responded Rickhart, “If you wish, I can do even more. I have the power to block all your legislation if you don’t give me what I want. When we take to the streets, don’t you think the Socialist would also try and make a bid for power. We will be stripping you of your power bit by bit.”

“Never,” said Justinian, “The people love me.”

“Is that why they voted out half your Chancellery?” asked Rickhart rhetorically.

“I have the Pope and the Church on my side, the people won’t defy God,” exclaimed Justinian.

“Are you willing to risk your empire on the chance they won’t listen to ‘God’?” mocked Rickhart.

Justinian paused, not in fear or panic, but thought.

“Two chancellors and eight lesser chancellors,” said Justinian.

“Six chancellors and make me Grand Chancellor,” responded Rickhart.

“How about I have you killed?” said Justinian in a fake rage.

“You don’t want to do anything you will regret,” warned Rickhart.

“I regret not stamping out your party and block when I had the chance,” said Justinian continuing with his façade.

Rickhart began to panic, “Fire Vernis, give me five chancellors and fifteen lesser chancellors.”

“How about no?” yelled Justinian furiously, “Guards, arrest this man, but don’t hurt him, that’s my job.”

Two large guards pointed their rifles at the fascist and moved forward.

“Fire Vernis, give me four chancellors and ten lesser chancellors,” blurted Rickhart.

“Deal,” said Justinian, after a quick calculation, returning to his calm, logical self as need required.

“You bluffed,” exclaimed Rickhart, “You tricked me.”

“I didn’t want to fire Vernis,” said Justininan, “But you left me no choice. Let me warn you once and only one, if you ever threaten me again, I won’t hesitate killing you for treason.”

He paused before continuing, “I hope you remember how slow Farminan executions are.”

“You wouldn’t risk it. It would lead to a revolution.”

“I wouldn’t risk not executing you,” said Justinian, “You are a dangerous man to leave alive.”

“But…” began Rickhart.

“I suggest you leave,” said Justinian, “I am not known for my patience and I have a great deal to do.”

Rickhart turned and left. He moved quickly, not looking backwards. Once in his limo he looked over his shoulder with great frequency. It would be habit he would keep for the rest of his life.

Bump

Bump for response (more is coming)

During the first sitting of the Farminan Grand Council (two weeks later):

“Grand Chancellor Goth,” began the Rickhart, “As leader of the new government, under the Holy Emperor Justinian, in the name of God, is it not your duty to uphold the law.”

“Of course,” responded Goth, “May I ask where this is leading?”

“I believe the right of question lies with me,” said the Fascist block leader, “Do you not also perform your duty, like all chancellors, in the name of God?”

“Of course Chancellor Rickhart,” responded Goth coldly, “Please get to your point.”

“Surely any Chancellor that is incompetent, has therefore failed in their duty to God?”

“I am not incompetent,” spat the Grand Chancellor.

“I never said you were,” responded Rickhart, “But could you please respond to my question.”

“It is a fair interpretation of the law,” responded Grand Chancellor Goth, very reluctantly.

“And if someone fails God, surely isn’t it treason, which is punishable by death,” declared Rickhart.

“Yes,” sighed Goth.

“And in your duty to uphold the law, if another Chancellor or former Chancellor had committed such a crime against God, shouldn’t they be put before the Council of Religious Affairs?”

“Yes,” said Goth, in a controlled but annoyed manner, not realizing a tiny slip up.

“Then place Peter Vernis before the Council of Religious Affairs to be tried for treason. The evidence of admission that he was fired by the Emperor, for which there can only be one explanation.”

Goth had walked into a corner, “I hereby declare that Grand Chancellor Vernis shall be tried by the Religious Affairs Council of treason against God. His innocence shall be proven.”


Later that day:

“Fool,” said Emperor Justinian, “Do you realize what you have done?”

“He shall be proven innocent,” replied Goth.

“You said the wrong council. Religious law or the Council of Justice would have been fine. But in Religious Affairs, Vernis’s enemies are in the majority. He is a dead man walking and there is nothing we can do,” yelled Emperor Justinian.

It was in that moment he realized how Rickhart had lured him into a trap, “My God, I’m so sorry, I have never had much interest in the multiplicity of the Councils and a man shall die because of it.”

The crimson columns of the palace suddenly reminded Justinian of blood, as his oldest and dearest friend moved faster and faster towards death.

Meanwhile, half a planet away...

"Gods! The idiot finally manages to lose an election only to be replaced with Fascists?! How is it that the one country on Earth we've almost gone to war with actually manages to find a more offensive government than the one they had before?!" Raijin Dekker was beside himself with fury.

"It's going to be a problem soon, too," Darvek said, sighing. "The results are already public; it's impossible to keep something like that secret, especially here. The nightmare's going to be the 'official' response. The people will expect you to tell them whether this is a good thing or a bad thing. Otherwise..."

"Otherwise Parliament will tell them." Kiv's response was measured, yet tinged with anxiety. "The Frontier Party will agitate for intervention. And they're the leftists. Security and Morality will campaign for war as well. The extreme right and left will trap the Free Kriovals between the hammer and anvil. Kara will either have to allow the vote or call early elections, and if she goes the elections route, Free Krioval will lose. A far right or far left government would be bad right now, with the expansions in Crysalian space."

"Not to mention the number of vetoes I'd have to use," Raijin grumbled. "Kara usually keeps me looking reasonable up here. If I had to start blocking half the legislation from Parliament, there'd be protests. The economy would suffer."

"The economy would collapse." Koro's almost cheerful voice corrected the Commander. "The tension between the two extreme ends of the political spectrum would rip the economy apart."

"So what do you suggest, Koro?" Darvek asked. "I mean, I think economy collapse and war are two things we might want to avoid, right?"

"Contact their leader. He won't want to deal with us, I'm sure, but something tells me that the Fascists are bigger thorns in Justinian's side than even we are."

Raijin's eyes doubled in apparent size. Looking at the now-eagerly nodding heads of the Directors, complete with pseudo-encouraging smiles, he exhaled sharply. Then he said, "Fine. It can't possibly hurt us to talk to the man, I guess."

To Emperor Justinian:

While I am probably among the five least-favorite people to you in all existence, I can't help but notice the events surrounding your latest elections. Now, I don't know much about Farminan politics, but I can at least judge whether a man believes in something or is just faking it. You're a true believer, for what it's worth. Up until a few days ago, I'd have said the same about Lord Vernis. So there's something going on behind the surface of what I'm reading in the papers - Lord Vernis wouldn't just be fired on a whim. Not by you.

I fully understand if you aren't interested in sharing the details. Suffice it to say that the situation in Farmina is causing a rather unstable political situation here as well. Your problems are fast becoming mine, and as horrified as I am to admit it, we may have need of one another's strength in leadership to overcome this crisis. Otherwise, I see this situation exploding. And lest you think that I enjoy any of this, let me reassure you that if this weren't considered absolutely necessary by my Directors, I wouldn't be sending it.

Krioval awaits your response.

Commander Raijin Dekker
Armed Republic of Krioval

Raijin sent the message, grunted in disgust, and walked out the door. Next stop was Parliament, where the Commander would sit in on the debate. If necessary, he could order the legislative body dissolved for three days without reason given. He hoped that wouldn't be necessary.

Raijin sent the message, grunted in disgust, and walked out the door. Next stop was Parliament, where the Commander would sit in on the debate. If necessary, he could order the legislative body dissolved for three days without reason given. He hoped that wouldn't be necessary.


To: Commander Raijin Dekker

Perhaps to hear from you of all people in such trying times is a great surprise in itself.

There are many things I think of you, most which I dare not mention, but I do feel a weird sense of trust. Read on with the promise of absolute secrecy.

You inquire as to the true nature of Vernis’s firing. I had no choice, inspite of losing a majority, I felt the Conservatives would recover. However the Fascists claimed to have the power to throw Farmina into anarchy, and I know many agents on the left have similar schemes. Perhaps it was a bluff, but risking a civil war on hope is a dangerous thing.

I forced a compromise which meant neither Vernis nor the Fascists got the Grand Chancellor title. I thought that would be enough for the incident to be swept under the carpet, and Vernis’s blunders to disappear.

However they have resurfaced if you have been following Farminan news. Peter Vernis is facing trial and has very little chance of survival. More Chancellors may follow on the basis of precedent, including Mr Brie, who lost his seat during the election.

That is the truth, I will be forced to live through an era of compromise, where the centre is unwillingly dragged to the far right. As I compromise, they insist my supporters executed. I watch, but all I can do is compromise.

Never before I have I thought such a positive word could bare such pain.

From:

Emperor Justinian

The Kriovalian had started out with a brisk walk that had accelerated to a modest run. Driving to Parliament was unnecessary, as the new building was located only around the corner from Command. He reached the entrance and crossed into the rotunda. He began to walk toward the main chamber when his communications armband flashed.

To: Commander Raijin Dekker

Perhaps to here from you of all people is such trying times is a great surprise in itself.

There are many things I think of you, most which I dare not mention, but I do feel a weird sense of trust. Read on with the promise of absolute secrecy.

You inquire as to the true nature of Vernis’s firing. I had no choice, inspite of losing a majority, I felt the Conservatives would recover. However the Fascists claimed to have the power to throw Farmina into anarchy, and I know many agents on the left have similar schemes. Perhaps it was a bluff, but risking a civil war on hope is a dangerous thing.

I forced a compromise which meant neither Vernis nor the Fascists got the Grand Chancellor title. I thought that would be enough for the incident to be swept under the carpet, and Vernis’s blunders to disappear.

However they have resurfaced if you have been following Farminan news. Peter Vernis is facing trial and has very little chance of survival. More Chancellors may follow on the basis of precedent, including Mr Brie, who lost his seat during the election.

That is the truth, I will be forced to live through an era of compromise, where the centre is unwillingly dragged to the far right. As I compromise, they insist my supporters executed. I watch, but all I can do is compromise.

Never before I have I thought such a positive word could bare such pain.

From:

Emperor Justinian

Lord Emperor,

I assume there are reasons you simply cannot declare the former Grand Chancellor innocent. They probably deal more with politics than actual power as well. Believe me, I know that situation all too well.

Truth be told, the situation in Krioval is bad for me, but worse for my citizens. Right now, if a vote to threaten or declare war against Farmina were to be held, it would likely pass. I'd rather prevent that, all things being the same. No matter what intervention we have in your country, whether it succeeded or failed, nothing good would come of it for Krioval. This is why I'm Commander - I'm paid to know these things.

But perhaps a solution presents itself. When is Lord Vernis's trial scheduled to be held?

~ Raijin
-----------
With that, the Commander walked through the double doors and into Parliament's main chambers. One glance from Kara Tyvok, the Speaker, told him that it was bad. The gasps and catcalls from several delegates further reinforced that impression. If this was to be solved without force, it would have to be solved soon.

Torokara Daily News - excerpt from National Politics

Torokara - Parliament voted today, by 54%, to divert emergency funding to arms production. As this led to rampant speculation about the possibility of war with Farmina, whose government has been savaged by Fascists, Parliamentary delegates were cautious to indicate that their intent was simply to ensure Krioval's defense against any potential hostilities. Neither the Speaker nor members of the Dekker government commented on the situation, citing national security concerns. Raijin Dekker himself had the following advice, "I urge Kriovalian citizens to follow the situation closely, but at present, there is nothing special to worry about. Krioval has allocated additional funds to defensive ends several times in the past eight years, and we've never gone to war." Still, a recent poll shows that many Kriovalian citizens favor military intervention to end what they perceive as "Farminan aggression", with 48% in favor, 42% opposed, and 10% unsure.

OOC: Farminan council sessions are recorded and placed in archives, Grand Council is on live TV.

To: Commander Raijin Dekker

I fear for the future. I suspect the Fascists are already doing deals with the military, which has moderate autonomy, but much less than it had when I first came to power.

You inquire as to the Peter Vernis’s trial, it shall be held a week to this day. A brief affair, considering. Farminan judicial affairs are fast, especially when in a non-judicial council.

I urge you to calm your people, I am in no mood to wipe your nation off the map this day.

From:

Emperor Justinian





Meanwhile in the Grand Council:

“As Chancellor for Foreign Affairs, it is my duty, for the sake of our nation, to put forward this measure,” began Chancellor Dan Rickhart, “Everyone has been distributed with a copy of.”

“To outline,” he continued, “The Protection of Farmina Act, sees the recall of conscription classes for systematic retraining. The elite core of past conscription classes will return to full duty. War taxes will return to force, military production will be returned to its war time levels and rationing shall be reintroduced. Secondary measures are included, to allow the Emperor to return to a full war economy at a time of his choosing. We cannot allow Krioval to move against us while we slumber.”

“Here here,” echoed a great many councilors.

“I am sure I can count on the support of the Conservative Block. Surely they will defend Farmina against foreign scourge, as they have tried to do in the past,” finished the Fascist.

“I request time for the Conservative parties to consider their position,” responded Thomas Goth.

“I insist on an immediate vote,” argued Rickhart, “Considering the urgency of the situation.”

“The importance of the decision suggests that we consider before we act,” responded Thomas Goth.

“Well you have the right of call,” said Rickhart, conceding, without losing an inch of arrogance.

“I call that the importance of this issue is enough to allow a 3 hour recess,” declared Goth, “I’m sure Krioval won’t invade within three hours.”

Ben Mitchell sat in his apartment, thinking. A popular pundit among the Farminian left, he has a good deal of sources inside the Farminian government. And it got him worried. The Fascists were gaining real power. A swing even further to their side could force the Emperor to adopt their policies. An impermissable state of affairs. Mitchell took out his satellite phone - the one an agent of his true homeland had given to him several years ago.

"God." General Richard Browder, head of the Deleuzan Defense Forces. "This situation presents a real crisis in security. Considering how nearby Farmina is to our important trade routes, a break with the tacit agreement we have with the Conservative government could spell economic disaster. Call up the President."

Emperor Justinian:
Although our governments have often clashed on ideological levels (your conception of church and state being a particular sticking point), we find mutual interests threatened by the Fascist advance into your government. If the Fascists were to subvert your rule, there could be mass death on a scale unseen prior to this day. We offer all necessary support, military if necessary, in order to prevent this cancer from becoming terminal.

President Gilles Guattari

To President Gilles Guattari

I have all possible scenarios calculated and responses prepared. I have no problem with any political block making democratic gains, as long as they do not make their gains illegitimately or by force. One must remember the Conservatives are still the single largest block. To summarise no aid will be required, although we thank you for your offer.

From:

Emperor Justinian


As Justinian signed his name he remember to smile, for the sake of his country. He wanted to do anything but.

To: Commander Raijin Dekker

I fear for the future. I suspect the Fascists are already doing deals with the military, which has moderate autonomy, but much less than it had when I first came to power.

You inquire as to the Peter Vernis’s trial, it shall be held a week to this day. A brief affair, considering. Farminan judicial affairs are fast, especially when in a non-judicial council.

I urge you to calm your people, I am in no mood to wipe your nation off the map this day.

From:

Emperor Justinian

There will not be a war between us at this point in time. Which one of us would emerge victorious is beside the point. We would both suffer and then the sharks would feed. If I have to, I assume emergency powers over the entire nation. Messy from a political standpoint, but perfectly legal.

As to Lord Vernis, I must now ask a very personal question. When forced to choose between two devils, which do you pick? I may be able to save the former Grand Chancellor's life. Or you can hope his trial turns out well if he's truly innocent. Which path will you take?

~ Raijin Dekker
------------
Koro watched the direct feed from the Farminan Grand Council.

“As Chancellor for Foreign Affairs, it is my duty, for the sake of our nation, to put forward this measure,” began Chancellor Dan Rickhart, “Everyone has been distributed with a copy of.”

“To outline,” he continued, “The Protection of Farmina Act, sees the recall of conscription classes for systematic retraining. The elite core of past conscription classes will return to full duty. War taxes will return to force, military production will be returned to its war time levels and rationing shall be reintroduced. Secondary measures are included, to allow the Emperor to return to a full war economy at a time of his choosing. We cannot allow Krioval to move against us while we slumber.”

“Here here,” echoed a great many councilors.

“I am sure I can count on the support of the Conservative Block. Surely they will defend Farmina against foreign scourge, as they have tried to do in the past,” finished the Fascist.

“I request time for the Conservative parties to consider their position,” responded Thomas Goth.

“I insist on an immediate vote,” argued Rickhart, “Considering the urgency of the situation.”

“The importance of the decision suggests that we consider before we act,” responded Thomas Goth.

“Well you have the right of call,” said Rickhart, conceding, without losing an inch of arrogance.

“I call that the importance of this issue is enough to allow a 3 hour recess,” declared Goth, “I’m sure Krioval won’t invade within three hours.”

"I'm impressed," the diplomat said. "Do the Fascists really think we can invade them in three hours? Wow. I mean, with our technological advantage, we could, but that's not exactly allowed."

"Tell Raijin." The Military Director looked at Koro. "He should know about this."
-----------------
Inside Krioval's Parliament:

"This is insane!" Senator Christine Barro screamed. "Fascists?! We're going to let this slide? They tried to force Krioval to join them only two years ago and now they're electing Fascists?! These people should be wiped from the face of the Earth!"

"My colleague cannot be serious!" a Representative of Torokara said. "Wiping people from the face of the Earth? We are not barbarians!"

"Maybe if all the lefties weren't in power," Carl Barstow said, "we wouldn't be in this mess. We'd have either dealt with them earlier or else joined forces with them. This 'policy of disengagement must stop'. While I'm loath to agree with Barro on this, we have to strike before they do! I move for a declaration of..." Senator Barstow, of Bralos, never finished his sentence, as he suddenly tripped and landed on the floor.

Kara shot Raijin a look, as if to ask "Did you do that?" Raijin didn't return the look, but would later admit that the 'Barstow Incident', as Parliament would refer to it for years, was one of his better experiences with telekinesis. The Speaker surveyed the room before simply stating, "I think a recess is in order. With the Commander's permission, I'd like to delay further debate until tomorrow, so that Senator Barstow can rejoin us." She didn't bother to wait for a second before banging her gavel three times, ending the session.

"Not a second too soon, Raijin."

"I'm getting old, I swear. Eight years ago, I'd have ripped his still-beating heart from his chest for that."

"So Nature has been kind to politicians? Undeserved, perhaps, but I'll take it."

The Commander was forced to let a brief chuckle escape. "Yeah, well. We could use you up in Command. Order in some lunch from Kero Sano? They've got the most incredible..."

Torokara Daily News:

Senator's Spill Saves Stability

Just moments from moving to declare war against Farmina, Senator Carl Barstow (SKT - Bralos) wildly pitched forward, landing on the floor and suffering a dislocated nose and jaw, as well as a mild concussion. Authorities do not suspect foul play, considering that no other delegates were within range to physically push the Senator, and the various psionic blockers serve to prevent any mental forms of instigating such a fall. Doctors are baffled, however, seeing as how the Senator is at the peak of his physical health, at only age forty-one. Sen. Barstow is expected to be released from Our Lady of Purity Hospital at some point this evening or tomorrow, and Parliament has been recessed to allow him to participate in further debate. The Commander has expressed sorrow at the event, though several government officials have admitted, on condition of anonymity, their relief that a vote was not taken immediately. "At least we're still at peace," one official said, while other echoed those sentiments.

The Grand Council reformed Grand Chancellor Goth and Chancellor Rickhart on opposite sides of the Table.

"I return the Grand Council to session,” said Goth.

Rickhart stood up in his long blue robe, “I request a vote on the Protection of Farmina Act.”

“You may not have it,” said Grand Chancellor Goth, “I called a short recess, due to your complaints about urgency. However the recess was to short so the Conservative Block couldn’t reach a consensus, and may of the Block’s parties couldn’t reach a decision in light of the absence of an umbrella block policy. Fascist pressures over time constraints have wasted time.”

“It was your decision to take only a three hour recess,” rebutted Rickhart, “I demand an immediate vote, otherwise we will never have one due to eternal Conservative entanglement.”

“I reject the call,” responded the Grand Chancellor.

“I call a vote of no confidence in the Grand Chancellor,” declared Rickhart.

“On what grounds?” asked Thomas Goth.

“On that you are failing to allow a vote on a matter of national importance,” responded Rickhart.

“I won’t…” began Goth, before realising that he had no right to block the vote.

“Can I see hands?” asked Rickhart.

All the Fascist Block put up their hands, followed by the Military and Socialist Blocks. A few hands came up from other parties, including ambitious Conservatives, who eyed the Chancellery eagerly.

The vote failed, but not by far.

Goth watched as the Conservatives put down their hands first, and others began to follow. A shiver ran down his back.

“You shall not break the government today,” said Goth, although he could already feel his confidence corroding.

Goth’s communicator bleeped several times. Each time there was a message, each from the leader of a block that had supported him. The message was fundamentally the same, “We saved you, now you let us vote.”

Goth looked up across the table at Rickhart, “We shall vote of the Protection of Farmina Act. All Conservatives without a party position, I advise a conscience vote.”

“May I see hands.”

Fascist and Military hands were the quickest in the air. Socialists and Liberals kept their hands down. Labour put their hands.

“The bills still in the minority,” he thought, before looking to his own party.

Then he saw the majority.

The Grand Chancellor brought down his gavel, “The act passes the Grand Council. Could the wardens please take the message to all other Councils, so voting may begin.”




Justinian wrote while the Councillors voted:

To: Raijin Dekker

If assuming emergency powers is what it will take to prevent a war, then I fully support it, although the unfortunate fate of one of your senators has seemed to save the day.

With regard to your question on the other matter, I cannot answer. I know the logical answer, I know my hearts answer, but I cannot see God’s answer, the right answer. I cannot doom a friend to die, but I cannot doom my nation either.

From:

Emperor Justinian

"They play a dangerous game," Koro said. "Theirs and ours, for that matter." He looked impishly at Raijin. "It really is too bad about Senator Barstow, ya know."

"Why Koro Vartek, I agree entirely." Raijin struggled, but failed to contain a giggle. "Doctors say he might have to be kept for up to three days, for observation."

"Was it really that bad?" Kiv asked with mild concern.

"Of course not. I need to prevent a war. He needs to learn a little Parliamentary decorum. Calling for a vote on a war the Commander doesn't support while I'm sitting right there is uncalled for. Speaking of which, put him on the list. He's not to be re-elected."

Kara interrupted the Commander. "What about Farmina? And what about Krioval?"

"Kara, it's bad enough the man's got to govern one nation here. Let him think," Darvek snapped at his sister.

"Farminan politics aren't ours. I'm surprised they didn't do a better job of manipulating the election. Hell, we do a better job of it, and we've got almost total transparency in the process. We just manipulate before rather than after. As for the Parliament situation, I'm going to let a few key Senators and Reps know that if they try anything like that again, the floor has been a bit 'unstable' lately. And I'll be there every day with half the Command staff."

"That leaves the protesters," Darvek said. "What about them?"

"Business as usual. They're allowed to protest so long as they're not interfering with the daily life in Krioval. Spell it out for them if you have to. And that leaves Justinian's message. How 'fun'."

To: Raijin Dekker

If assuming emergency powers is what it will take to prevent a war, then I fully support it, although the unfortunate fate of one of your senators has seemed to save the day.

With regard to your question on the other matter, I cannot answer. I know the logical answer, I know my hearts answer, but I cannot see God’s answer, the right answer. I cannot doom a friend to die, but I cannot doom my nation either.

From:

Emperor Justinian

Lord Emperor,

My Gods will likely create a special hell just for me for suggesting this, but do you remember the recent incident in Bralos, where the cathedral was destroyed? I recall telling you that Catholics were responsible. That was true. If you wanted to get Lord Vernis safely out of the country, Krioval could accuse him of conspiracy to commit an act of terror and request extradition. He is, of course, innocent, and would be found as such. Besides, with all the character witnesses that could be called to such a trial, he'd end up looking quite good at the end of it. I believe the Kriovalian term is "politically untouchable".

At the same time, I would need your tacit approval for it to happen, and that would include after the fact. It does me no good to be harshly condemned after an acquittal is brought down, and as we may recall, this is meant to benefit both of us. I'm up for other options as well. Let me know as soon as you can, for the former Grand Chancellor's sake.

~ Raijin Dekker

Lord Emperor,

My Gods will likely create a special hell just for me for suggesting this, but do you remember the recent incident in Bralos, where the cathedral was destroyed? I recall telling you that Catholics were responsible. That was true. If you wanted to get Lord Vernis safely out of the country, Krioval could accuse him of conspiracy to commit an act of terror and request extradition. He is, of course, innocent, and would be found as such. Besides, with all the character witnesses that could be called to such a trial, he'd end up looking quite good at the end of it. I believe the Kriovalian term is "politically untouchable".

At the same time, I would need your tacit approval for it to happen, and that would include after the fact. It does me no good to be harshly condemned after an acquittal is brought down, and as we may recall, this is meant to benefit both of us. I'm up for other options as well. Let me know as soon as you can, for the former Grand Chancellor's sake.

~ Raijin Dekker

To: Raijin Dekker

That would be politically impossible. Since he is waiting for trial here, Farminan law takes priority. Once convicted, he cannot be removed from the nation. Even if it was pulled off, I would be seen to interfere in the law to quickly, then the consequences will quickly become unpredictable. I do thank you for your offer.

I watch as Peter's blood drips from my hands, long before his death. Do you know how that feels.

Emperor Justinian




"Can I see hands?" asked the Chancellor for Foriegn Affairs, Dan Rickhart.

He watched as hands rose around the Council of Foriegn Affairs.

"The Protection of Farmina Act has passed the Council of Foriegn Affairs," said Rickhart, "Warden, inform the other councils."

He paused, the bill had only a few more councils to pass, and with each council, more and more Conservatives voted in favour of the Fascist line, a patriotic line, a line to protect Farmina from foriegn threats.

The Conservative Block was fracturing and fraying.

Bump, for a wider range of responses.

Councillor Solar overlooked the voting in the Farminian Councils, he found it quite strange indeed, allowing the people to choose in such important matters that could change the world. The votes tallied up, more and more and Solar was confident; the issue would pass.

"Colonel Rhodes." Solar turned on his heel, facing the DDF officer a good two foot shorter forcing the man to look up to Solar.
"Yes Councillor Solar?"

"Have you prepared the statement to Farmina and Justinian?"

Rhodes handed over a brown envelope to Solar, its seal unbroken. "Yes Councillor, the personal request to their emperor has been included."
Solar signalled for one of his aides to come closer, he pushed the envelope into the boy's hands. "Put this on TACCOM and send it to Farmina."
"Yes..yes Councillor!" The boy sped off, slamming the door to the office behind him.

From the Dumpsterdanian Imperial Council and the Duniashian Senate

The Imperial Council and Senate have expressed their distrust in Farmina, is it so hard to hold any sort of elections without internal struggle following?

The Council and the Senate urge Farmina to clean up its act, this is not the kind of behaviour we wish to see in our allies internal policies.

We once again urge Farmina to wipe any sort of internal and external struggle off the face of the earth at once, the Empire expects that Farmina will stand ready to support it as the Empire has done for Farmina.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v662/Dumpsterdam/ultramarineslogo.gif

Erik Solar,
Imperial Councillor,
Minster of Foreign Affairs.

Justinian, as you have already received my message concerning your internal struggle I will elaborate; the Empire will in a short period of time mobilise its armed forces for offensive action. Against who we cannot disclose, but you, in your wisdom can probably guess which nation the Empire wishes to strike.

I hope you see the urgency of this matter, and clear up any internal struggle so that your support of the Empire and its actions can be seen as one block, not several splintered factions vying for power.

If need be, the Empire will pay for any mobilisation, in return for your support in this matter and a constant vigil over what will remain in Dumpsterdam after we have left.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v662/Dumpsterdam/ultramarineslogo.gif

Erik Solar,
Imperial Councillor,
Minster of Foreign Affairs.

From the Dumpsterdanian Imperial Council and the Duniashian Senate

The Imperial Council and Senate have expressed their distrust in Farmina, is it so hard to hold any sort of elections without internal struggle following?

The Council and the Senate urge Farmina to clean up its act, this is not the kind of behaviour we wish to see in our allies internal policies.

We once again urge Farmina to wipe any sort of internal and external struggle off the face of the earth at once, the Empire expects that Farmina will stand ready to support it as the Empire has done for Farmina.

Erik Solar,
Imperial Councillor,
Minster of Foreign Affairs.


Justinian, as you have already received my message concerning your internal struggle I will elaborate; the Empire will in a short period of time mobilise its armed forces for offensive action. Against who we cannot disclose, but you, in your wisdom can probably guess which nation the Empire wishes to strike.

I hope you see the urgency of this matter, and clear up any internal struggle so that your support of the Empire and its actions can be seen as one block, not several splintered factions vying for power.

If need be, the Empire will pay for any mobilisation, in return for your support in this matter and a constant vigil over what will remain in Dumpsterdam after we have left.

Erik Solar,
Imperial Councillor,
Minster of Foreign Affairs.

Farmina is purely reflecting a distrust towards the incompetence of the old guard. Any disturbance is tempory, as can be expected considering the sudden shift in voting patterns. Our internal shifts, no way reflect our external capabilities, which will soon be greatly increased, thanks to the Protection of Farmina Act.

Dan Rickhart
Chancellor for Foriegn Affairs



Councillor I head your warning, and the light of God and logic suggest to your target. Farmina also has designs of harm on the nation of which you speak.

I suggest that our full force will be at your disposal, although a small sum for civil management would be appreciated.

We do face four other threats:
1) Orphelia
This nation declared war on us and hasn't been heard from since.
2) Krioval
Seems to be stabilising but is inherently antagonistic towards Farmina for an unknown reason
3) Fascists
May use war to strike for power, although improbable
4) Socialists
May use war to strike for power, not menacing

However inlight of events, each should be controllable. The most deadly threat, the Fascists should want to fall in line with the war effort, but we shall see.

May God watch over you.

Emperor Justinian

A cold breeze blew through the air. A small amount brushed against Justinian’s face, he felt it, in the deepest parts of his body, like a foreboding sign.

Justinian could hear pounding up the steps to his throne room.

Then there was a pause. Justinian recognized this to be the messenger being stopped the guards.

Justinian looked over to his aide; they both knew what document was coming.

The footsteps resumed as the great doors swung open and a thin, yet short man in blue robes entered.

“For you my Lord Emperor,” said the messenger handing over the parchment, “The final council passed the Protection of Farmina Act, put six minutes ago. Remarkable that the Councils are sitting at this hour.”

By the time the messenger had finished blathering, Justinian had already signed the parchment and handed it back.

“I must speak to my people,” said the Emperor.



Within the hour, Justinian stood on the balcony, over the Great Hall:

“Fellow Farminans. I realize that these are uncertain times, but believe not everything you hear behind the shed. Farmina is not headed for civil war, nor are extremists blackmailing government officials and planning world conquest. Our enemies are not within, but out their, trying to destroy what we have worked so hard to build. I talk of the likes of Krioval and those who murdered my predecessor, not stopping to think of the consequences.

Today I have signed into action, by no easy measure, a bill that will see the full mobilization of the Farminan military. All conscription classes shall be recalled for retraining and the standing army shall be enlarged. I shall implement the Act’s secondary clause allowing a full war economy. Not a scrap shall be wasted in the coming times.

These are but just precautionary measures, we expected no attack from Krioval. I feel it is better to be safe than regretful. We are a strong nation, we must keep a strong will to match. God save Farmina.”

The crowd echoed the final phrase, but it was more hollow than usual, as though hope itself had been eaten from the people.

We are stunned by these election results. We will be watching closely to see how they effect Roach-Busterian-Farminan relations.

-Secretary of Diplomacy Chong Moua

We are stunned by these election results. We will be watching closely to see how they effect Roach-Busterian-Farminan relations.

-Secretary of Diplomacy Chong Moua

Tell your good leader, there is little need to worry, we haven't fallen to democracy yet and the Imperial seal is still what really matters.

Also, I hope for a new law to be passed very soon, that will allow me to significantly decrease the number of Socialists.

I point this out in case the good Generalissimo wishes to watch the 'decrease' on live TV.

Emperor Justinian

Krioval's parliament was in session when Justinian's speech reached the airwaves and holoscreens across the nation. If the citizens were surprised then Raijin was furious. "Has the man finally lost his mind?" he said under his breath. Turning toward Kara, he simply said, "I need half an hour." Then he walked out of the session. Without Senator Barstow and with Christine Barro having been told in no uncertain terms not to mention the word "war", it was a small risk to take, leaving Parliament to its own devices. On his way back to Command, he stopped by the Supreme Court's annex, dashed off a quick form, and left. "It's time," he said to nobody in particular. The he prepared to address the nation. He had finally decided on a course of action, Justinian's position be damned.

Citizens of Krioval, I have decided that there will be no war. The situation in another sovereign nation is of no concern to us. They cannot pierce our defenses, and we cannot overwhelm the combined army of Farmina and their allies, and as such, we remain neutral. I will not tolerate further disruptions, either in the halls of Parliament or in the streets of Torokara. We all work to make Krioval a better place, and so we will continue to do so. Do not forget the last war that was fought in Krioval. Thousands of people died in what can only be described as an atrocity. We have the power to prevent a similar atrocity from being committed by the forces of righteousness today. The Gods will favor Krioval for our restraint, as now is the season for patience.

However, while some problems resolve themselves without interference, many do not. A breakthrough in the investigation of the Bralos Cathedral bombing has yielded new suspects. Thus, I have filed notice of prosecution, in accordance with the Constitutional powers vested in the Commander, to charge Dan Rickhart of Farmina with three counts of conspiracy to commit an act of terror. The notice will be formalized within the hour, and extradition, though unlikely, will be requested. Justice and truth must prevail today.

Hail Krioval, and be strong.

A few hours later, the mood in Krioval had lifted considerably. The Commander had flexed his political muscle, and Parliament had backed down, choosing to pass a censure of the current government of Farmina and letting the matter die. They had then moved on to water regulations. Citizens who had been calling for blood suddenly found themselves on the wrong side of popular opinion, and they returned home, no doubt to agitate against another nation's faults, real or imagined. And Raijin penned another letter to Justinian, though his patience was now beginning to wane.

To the Emperor of Farmina:

Time grows short. Lord Vernis's fate hangs on a thin thread, as you must by now be fully aware. Perhaps extraditing a few Fascists to Krioval will take the heat from the former Grand Chancellor? Truly, I'm running out of ideas here, and the constant harangues against Krioval certainly don't make this any easier.

And frankly, I'm appalled that a quarter of your government is somehow sufficient to ride roughshod on the rest of it. As unappealing as it must be, can't the Conservatives form a coalition with some of the left-leaning parties, at least temporarily? Or better yet, can't you demonstrate some of that strength you lecture me about? Either you rule Farmina or you don't, and if it's the latter, for your own safety, I would suggest planning an escape route. The Fascists won't stop with Lord Vernis once their agenda moves forward - if they are allowed to move forward, that is.

Lord Raijin Dekker Darklighter, the Light
Commander of Krioval
High Paladin of Solokaro

He had opted for the extremely formal signature as well as a somewhat confrontational tone. After all, it seemed like both the strength and desire to save Vernis's life was now with the Commander of Krioval, and it galled him. The man sat in the empty office, and watched as the sun continued its journey across the early afternoon sky.

He had opted for the extremely formal signature as well as a somewhat confrontational tone. After all, it seemed like both the strength and desire to save Vernis's life was now with the Commander of Krioval, and it galled him. The man sat in the empty office, and watched as the sun continued its journey across the early afternoon sky.

OOC: I do enjoy RPing with you, you have made this much more interesting.

IC:
To: Raijin Dekker

We are preparing for the greatest war this nation has ever seen, and we dare not name our target. Internal problems will calm down eventually, the Fascists will be put in their place. I am still absolute ruler after all.

As to a deal with the left, that is unlikely, they scheme as much, if not more than the Fascists do. They stand for everything we are opposed to, we shall not deal with the Devil.

I will submit a request to the Grand Councillor for Dan Rickhart's extradition.

You ask for a display of strength, it is coming.

Emperor Justinian

“Will the Fascist party do the moral thing and support this legislation or not?” asked the Grand Chancellor.

Another bill saw the Grand Council again heavily divided.

“We do not see the need to tip the law in favor of the Conservatives, giving the Socialist voters a choice between Conservatives or the Labour weaklings?” rebutted Tobias Grey, a Fascist and descendent of Thomas Grey.

The comment drew hisses and boos from all around the chamber.

“This has nothing to do with outlawing the Socialist Block,” responded the Chancellor for Law, John Water, “All we are trying to do is speed up the execution of several prisoners.”

“Socialist prisoners, all rightfully elected by the people,” called out the leader of the Socialist Block.

Goth looked around the chamber, the Conservatives and Labour were the only blocks supporting the bill, and the Fascists were the only party remotely likely of changing policy stance. He needed to shift the Fascist position, or at least some Fascists.

“These people were in violation of the law, the law everyone must obey, regardless of whether he is elected,” rejected the Chancellor for Law.

“If all Farminans are all equal under the law, why are we trying to create special proceedings for this case?” commented Rickhart.

“Because to try this many people the only way to do it is by mass trial sorted on the basis of severity,” answered John Water.

“So will the Fascists, support the rule of law, freedom from Socialist tyranny and the will of our great Emperor by supporting this bill,” asked Goth again.

A hiss came from the Socialist section of the council.

“We shall not be forced to do anything by the Conservatives,” responded Rickhart, “Justice should be continuous, over time with no sudden changes for groups. The Socialists will get their day in court. Surely justice is worth the wait.”

“Twelve years,” said John Water.

“I beg your pardon?” asked Rickhart.

“I have a report here showing that at the current rate, the trials will be finished in twelve years,” said John Water, “I don’t know how long you want to wait for this justice, but the prisoners won’t be in favour of it.”

“Can I see the report?” asked Rickhart.

“Certainly,” responded the Chancellor for Justice, “Wardens.”

The wardens emerged at every door, handing out copies of the report. It wasn’t a thick report, just a few brief calculations.

Tobias Grey turned pale the quickest, an indicator to Rickhart that the report was well founded.

“I call for a one day recess,” said Rickhart.

“I deny the recess,” declared the Grand Chancellor triumphantly, “We vote on the bill now, so it can be immediately transferred to other relevant councils.”

“This is an important issue,” warned Rickhart.

“Can I see hands?” said the Grand Chancellor, completely ignoring him.

Conservative and Labour hands were the first up. Military party hands also went up. Each block was not completely united, and some hands stayed down, even if not especially in the Conservatives. Counting the hands made it hard to tell which way the vote swung. Goth could see a narrow defeat on his screen of auto counts, but there was still time.

Rickhart looked up, the military party had abandoned him, it seemed like the bill had a majority. Other fascists noticed this too. Some began to raise their hands; in part to be in the majority and in part to show rationality in light of the report,

Rickhart then reluctantly put up his own hand. It was a sign of a small Conservative victory, and the first signs of the fractures amongst the Fascists.

“The bill passed the Grand Council. Wardens, pass the word.”

OOC: I do enjoy RPing with you, you have made this much more interesting.

OOC: Cool. Not many MT nations will even talk to me aside from boring diplomatic stuff.

IC:


To: Raijin Dekker

We are preparing for the greatest war this nation has ever seen, and we dare not name our target. Internal problems will calm down eventually, the Fascists will be put in their place. I am still absolute ruler after all.

As to a deal with the left, that is unlikely, they scheme as much, if not more than the Fascists do. They stand for everything we are opposed to, we shall not deal with the Devil.

I will submit a request to the Grand Councillor for Dan Rickhart's extradition.

You ask for a display of strength, it is coming.

Emperor Justinian

Lord Emperor,

I would guess from the Grand Council's decision that the Socialists and, by extension, the Fascists, are finished. Interesting how we both must deal with fanatics on opposite ends of the spectrum. Anyway, I'm not about to quibble with how the matter is dealt with - Krioval's territory appears secure, and I would hope that your government remains sufficiently honorable to notify me if that is ever to not be the case.

Will all the Soclialists be executed? It would be good to know the laws they broke if that is the case - the downside to a free society is that the people can get access to just about any information, and they will want an explanation from me. If you can't tell me, that's fine, I just hope you're not too surprised when I shake my head sadly on an international telecast and wonder aloud how societies can execute people en masse.

Thank you for forwarding the extradition request. In honor of this, I will be sending you and Chancellor Goth a bottle apiece of Krioval's best wine, also to commemorate your recent alcohol laws. Also, I will upgrade our informal relations from "hostile" to "extremely unfavorable". I am forced to wonder, though, whether the energy that must be causing hell to freeze is inadvertently causing our glaciated relations to thaw.

I will be watching further developments with great interest.

~ Raijin
--------------
The Kriovalian laughed, despite the gravity of the situation. A week ago, Raijin would have suggested a trip to the Torokara Insitute for Mental Health if anyone had suggested that he'd be making nice with the Emperor of Farmina. Well, Fascists were worse than Justinian, and the Commander really found it tough to hate anyone for any period of time. And far-right despotic governments made for some of the best markets for arms trading, Krioval's specialty. He could only hope some of the Kriovalian tendency to tolerance would rub off on some of those empires, that they might civilize in time. So, like a teacher who has just finished dealing with an especially problematic student, Raijin Dekker sighed and contemplated the very long road ahead.

Lord Emperor,

I would guess from the Grand Council's decision that the Socialists and, by extension, the Fascists, are finished. Interesting how we both must deal with fanatics on opposite ends of the spectrum. Anyway, I'm not about to quibble with how the matter is dealt with - Krioval's territory appears secure, and I would hope that your government remains sufficiently honorable to notify me if that is ever to not be the case.

Will all the Soclialists be executed? It would be good to know the laws they broke if that is the case - the downside to a free society is that the people can get access to just about any information, and they will want an explanation from me. If you can't tell me, that's fine, I just hope you're not too surprised when I shake my head sadly on an international telecast and wonder aloud how societies can execute people en masse.

Thank you for forwarding the extradition request. In honor of this, I will be sending you and Chancellor Goth a bottle apiece of Krioval's best wine, also to commemorate your recent alcohol laws. Also, I will upgrade our informal relations from "hostile" to "extremely unfavorable". I am forced to wonder, though, whether the energy that must be causing hell to freeze is inadvertently causing our glaciated relations to thaw.

I will be watching further developments with great interest.

~ Raijin
--------------
The Kriovalian laughed, despite the gravity of the situation. A week ago, Raijin would have suggested a trip to the Torokara Insitute for Mental Health if anyone had suggested that he'd be making nice with the Emperor of Farmina. Well, Fascists were worse than Justinian, and the Commander really found it tough to hate anyone for any period of time. And far-right despotic governments made for some of the best markets for arms trading, Krioval's specialty. He could only hope some of the Kriovalian tendency to tolerance would rub off on some of those empires, that they might civilize in time. So, like a teacher who has just finished dealing with an especially problematic student, Raijin Dekker sighed and contemplated the very long road ahead.
To Raijin Dekker,

Neither the Socialists or Fascists are finished, I would be a fool to think so.

The Fascists will be back in the Grand Council tommorow, when the extradition papers will be before it.

For all the Socialists arrested, others do not stick with mud, and will continue to hate our way of life, and do so with greater fury.

For now the day is in Conservative hands, but tommorow, that is a different matter.

Emperor Justinian

“The bill has passed the Grand Council, wardens please pass this on to the relevant councils,” said Grand Chancellor Goth. He took a sip from his coffee and looked down to his monitor.

“It has come to my attention the Trials of Socialism Package, has just been signed into law by his holiness the Emperor. The trials will be starting immediately and simultaneously.”

Thomas Goth noticed a light on his monitor; Rickhart had taken the right to speak.

“Grand Chancellor, in bringing these trials forward, has the Emperor not delayed several important trials, including that of Peter Vernis, a traitor of the highest kind?” asked Rickhart.

“I believe that Chancellor Rickhart voted for the package, is that not correct?” asked the Grand Chancellor.

“That is true, but I didn’t realize the Emperor would use executive power embodied in the package to keep a traitor alive,” rebutted Rickhart.

“Are you questioning, our great and beloved Emperor’s judgment?” asked Goth.

“Of course not,” said Rickhart, “I have the upmost faith in the Emperor’s judgement.”

“I’m glad,” said the Grand Chancellor, “I would like to put forward a request for extradition request by the Krioval government, against Chancellor Dan Rickhart.”

“Absurd,” responded Rickhart, “This is a political play, not a matter of justice.”

“Was it not you who said, we are all equal under the law. Surely you should be tried for crimes in Krioval, regardless of your nationality or position?” attacked John Water, Chancellor for Justice, “Farminans would always support the rule of law, especially relating to the murder of Catholics.”

That hit hard, with several cheers from the Conservatives, but also Labour and the Liberals.

“What evidence is there for my extradition?” asked Rickhart.

“It is not our duty to observe Krioval’s evidence, its law system is its own,” responded Water.

Tobias Grey used the attack on Rickhart to steal the limelight.

“Isn’t it most important to Farmina above all else. Instead the Grand Chancellor is asking us to submit to Krioval law before our own. He is asking us to surrender our rights to foreigners. Foreigners who threatened war with us. Foreigners who we have fully mobilized in fear of. Let us not forget our history with Krioval. Let us not forget we stand on the brink of war.”

Grey paused to sip a glass of water, before attacking with huge vigor, “There is another thing. Krioval has sent the Grand Chancellor a bottle of wine. This perhaps is his reason for acting. The Grand Chancellor is in the pockets of the enemy. An enemy that moves against us. Justinian’s phantom enemy. The Grand Chancellor, in the pay of the enemy, crippling our government, by using tools like this extradition. Crippling the government in preparation for a Kriovalian attack.”

The was a silence in the room, so dead, not even if air conditioner dare make noise.

At the top of his voice Tobias Grey concluded, “I call for a no confidence vote in the Grand Chancellor.”

Eyes shifted around the room.

“May I see hands?” asked Rickhart, also taken off guard by Grey’s move.

Fascist hands were the first up, followed shortly by Military. Liberal, Labour and Socialist hands also went into the air.

Thomas Goth responded, “I resign in wait of the Emperor’s judgment.”

“I shall assume the roll of Grand Chancellor in the meantime,” decreed Chancellor Water.

“I object,” said Rickhart, “I wish the right to fill the role.”

“You are facing extradition, you have no such right,” responded Water.

“I shall run,” said Tobias Grey.

“And shall I,” said the leader of the Socialist block, Alfred Zimia.

Quickly the three names came up on voting panels at each desk.

Water read out the results, “Grey 33%, Water 47%, Zimia 20%, Zimia is eliminated.”

“Confirmed,” said Rickhart watching his own panel.

Water watched his panel again, “Grey 40%, Water 60%. Water wins.”

“Confirmed,” said Rickhart grudgingly.

“I call a vote on the extradition,” said Water, “Can I see hands?”

Conservatives, Liberals, Labour and Socialists all put their hands in the air.

Rickhart did a rough count and didn’t like the numbers.

“The extradition has passed the Grand Council. Wardens please tell the relevant councils, and make sure Chancellor Rickhart is put underguard.”

Bump; back in two hours.

Torokara - Government District

Raijin Dekker might possibly have been among the happiest people on the entire planet that day. Except for Chancellor Goth's no-confidence vote, which he doubted would stick, the situation was almost universally positive, what with the extradition passing. If nothing else, Raijin had successfully united almost three-quarters of Farmina's Grand Council in Krioval's favor - it was too bad he couldn't really tell many people about the accomplishment. The day was looking good, until disaster struck.

"Commander Raijin Dekker."

Raijin spun on his heel, readying his combat staff. It wasn't the first time someone had attempted to pick a fight with the man, though it had never been attempted in broad daylight in the streets of Torokara's government district. Still, old habits die hard. "Senator Barstow?" The Commander was truly shocked. "You've recovered already? The doctors had said it would be three days."

"Did they? Are you sure you're not confused, and it's you who told the doctors?" The Senator was whispering so as to not draw too much attention. It was only through an impressive force of will that Raijin's face remained neutral in expression.

"Walk with me, Senator," he motioned in the general direction of the Parliament building. "What makes you say that I would do that?"

"Oh cut the bullshit, Commander. Everybody knows that your capable of it. You're the only one, in fact, who could have pulled off that little 'mind trick' undetected." Barstow pulled ahead of Raijin. "And everybody's going to know it."

"I would advise strongly against making wild accusations, Senator. Politics are like the ocean. Rough seas may look most impressive, but they simply expend extra energy and self-destruct."

The Commander watched as Barstow stomped off. While nothing could be proven, Raijin chided himself for underestimating the Senator's intelligence and brashness. The last thing that was needed was a political storm to break in Parliament today. It would be interesting.
-------------
Torokara - Parliament - 1 hour later

"And the vote to institute voluntary water restrictions has passed, two hundred sixty-three votes to eighty-nine, with thirty-nine abstentions." Kara looked over the agenda. "Well, ladies and gentlemen, today seems to be a light day, so I propose we recess until the afternoon session, and meet in committees then. Is there any other business before this body that we should address first?" She hoped not. Kara was meeting with Darvek for lunch, and to discuss potential engagement gifts. She knew how indecisive her brother could be about these things, and so she had budgeted two hours for the lengthy conversation.

"Madam Speaker, if I may," a male voice spoke from the conservative side of the chamber.

"Of course, Senator Barstow," she inwardly cringed. Better cancel that lunch, she thought. "What is on your mind?"

"First, I would like to thank my colleagues for their wishing me a fast recovery. It was even faster than anybody could have possibly imagined." He looked at the Commander, who did not return the look.

"Um...we're glad to have you back, Senator," Kara said. "If there's nothing else then..."

"It's funny though," Barstow interrupted. "I remember standing up here yesterday, about to make a motion, when I felt like I was shoved from behind. Of course, nobody was near me, and the blockers would stop a mental attack. Isn't that right, Commander?"

Raijin looked up from his notes and shrugged. "That's the idea, I suppose." He returned to his notes, doodling a haphazard suit of armor next to the scribblings on water regulation.

That deflated the Senator somewhat. He had hoped for any response, and received total apathy from Raijin. Several of the other delegates were whispering, and the phrase "feeble minded" seemed to be a common theme. And as loose cannons often do, Senator Barstow detonated in a most unfortunate way. "But you're stronger than the fields. You could have done it. Nobody but you, Raijin Dekker. Pushing me over to stop a vote on war. What's next?! Burning at the stake over redistricting laws?!"

Kara let out a nervous titter. "Senator, certainly you aren't accusing the Commander of assault?" It was more a question than a statement, and it was one that impelled morbid curiosity on the part of the other delegates. Silence reigned like an imperious monarch - daring someone to speak first.

"I must apologize to the Parliament," Raijin said. "It was, in fact, my fault." Stunned gasps filled the auditorium. "I have recently started a course of medication to clear up a bout of seasonal allergies. Unfortunately, they seemed to have an adverse effect on my extremely high-order mental processes, so I discontinued the treatment approximately ten days ago. It would appear that the imbalance is still being corrected. I didn't even realize that it was possible until this morning, when the good Senator mentioned it to me, and by the time it dawned on me, I was so embarrassed that I kept silent." He touched his left index and middle fingers to his headband and bowed his head slightly. "I didn't want to distract this body from its important tasks this morning." The auditorium filled with sighs of relief and snips of whispered conversation.

Kara Tyvok was quick to respond. "Well, that settles that," she said in overdramatic cheerfulness. "Now, if there's nothing else..."

"No friggin' way!" Barstow's comment shot out.

"Excuse me?" Kara asked, looking square at the man.

"Don't tell me you're all falling for that bullshit?! Allergy medicine? Accidental telekinetic outbursts? No! Raijin Dekker tried to silence me by force!"

The Commander looked up, but his facial expression was inscrutable. "Senator Barstow, I am sorry for your pain yesterday. It was most unfortunate."

"So that's it, huh?" Barstow stood and pointed around the chamber. "Soft people led by a soft leader!"

"Well," Senator Christine Barro stood, fixing a steely gaze on her colleague. "We've gone from wild accusations that the man pushes people out of the way to claims that he's soft. What else should I expect from a so-called Purity delegate?"

"The Whore of the Senate speaks, ever willing to defend her heart's true desire!" As Barstow spoke, Christine sputtered, enabling him to continue. "Too bad the Commander is immune to the charms of a woman! Soft and easily dominated. Just ask the Military Director!"

Kara Tyvok, fair-skinned, had turned a shade of red to match her hair. "Senator!"

But Raijin had had enough. He leapt to his feet. "Senator Barstow, you will apologize to Senator Barro at once and you will refrain from discussing my family in such a way. You dishonor my government and my loved ones with such language," he said, obviously angry.

"Oh, he speaks finally. Well, Lord Raijin," he said sarcastically, "what's wrong if it's true? I mean, you and Kiv are screwing each other, Darvek and Koro are screwing each other, but that's not enough, is it? No, all of you need to screw Krioval too!"

The Commander looked at the Senator with disgust before turning to Kara, who was shaking with rage. "I move for the Senator Barstow's expulsion from Parliament, effective immediately."

"Seconded!" Christine was no shrinking violet, and her second assured that the Frontier party would vote in lockstep. The centrists were scandalized by Barstow's behavior as well, and would probably tip the scale. Even some Security party members were shying away from the Purity party despite their closeness on social issues.

The vote wasn't even close. Three hundred fifty-seven voted for immediate expulsion. Ten voted against, and twenty-four abstained. Barstow's career had been destroyed. Kara quickly gaveled the session closed, this time having the presence of mind to not ask whether there was additional business. As the delegates filed out, centrist Free Krioval Party member Tomoharu Tanaka looked at the former Senator. "Good luck on the job hunt."

Barstow pulled a concealed glass dagger and swung at the Representative. Tomoharu was fast, though, and dodged. From a few steps away, the Commander jumped into the fray. His bo swung twice, connecting both times with a satisfying crunch as first the former Senator's jawbone and then lower right rib gave way. The kick that followed sent the man flying backward into a glass display case, which shattered on impact. "Guards, take that man to a hospital, and this time, make damn sure he stays there!" To the Representative, he said, "You hurt?"

"No, Lord Commander."

"That was a stupid thing to say."

"Yes, Lord Commander."

"Probably get you elected to the Senate," he said, clapping the smaller man on the shoulder. "Ever been to Kero Sano? They make the greatest..."

KRNN excerpt:

...Will the mystery of crop circles never be solved?

For those of you just tuning in, this is Kara Taylor of KRNN. Breaking news from Torokara this morning; it appears that Purity party Senator Carl Barstow suffered some kind of mental episode this morning in Parliament, attempting to attack another delegate in the chamber. The Senator made wild accusations against Senator Christine Barro, calling her the "Whore of the Senate" before launching into a tirade on homosexuality among government officials. While the Purity Party's long-standing aversion to same-sex relationships is hardly secret, it was shocking to see the Commander's relationship portrayed publicly in such graphic detail, along with the statement that the government is "screwing Krioval". A full transcript of the hearing is available for viewing on our virtual site.

Even more surprising, however, was the Senator's violent attack on Representative Tomoharu Tanaka, from the Free Krioval group. Apparently the Senator, upset at losing his position due to his earlier outbursts, picked on Tanaka at random, using a glass shard to slash at the younger man. Timely intervention from Raijin Dekker incapacitated Barstow, who is now being treated for injuries at Our Lady of Purity Hospital, from where he will be transferred to Telekar Prison pending formal arraignment on charges of attempted murder and attempted assassination of a delegate of Parliament. The maximum sentence he could receive would be life imprisonment performing hard labor. We'll have more on this bizarre situation later this evening.

In other news, tropical storm Corinne...

Several papers lay in front of the Emperor.

Justinian grabbed the pink page, pushing the rest onto the floor. Pink meant it was an extradition order, so it was easy to realize its importance.

He picked up his pen, and at the same time picked up all the consequences of the signature.

He had a clear majority behind the extradition, but a very vocal and dangerous minority against it.

There was only one choice, he put his pen onto the paper and scrawled the most powerful word in Farmina, “Justinian.”

He handed the pink page to his aide, “Contact Dekker immediately, tell him to collect the prisoner.”

“Immediately sir,” replied the aide, rushing off to Justinian direct communicator and activating a line to Krioval.

Justinian then grabbed the blue document off the floor.

He read the top line, “Query of No Confidence.”

Thomas Goth was one of the finest Conservative politicians, even if not a great government official. It was though the Fascists were extracting their revenge for their first defeat.

Justinian looked at the page some more. Treason and corruption were very serious accusations, although unfounded. The Fascists would react completely differently to his response since Rickhart was no longer in control. No Rickhart meant that the secret deal was gone, unless he had told one of his friends. Firing all Fascist Chancellors would also cause a dangerous reaction.

Uncertainty, that what it all came down to. Justinian scrawled, “Decision delayed” waiting for the next play of the game to become more obvious.

He then got out a list of councilors as he looked for a new Chancellor of Foreign Affairs and a Chancellor of Law.

It would be another long night in the White Palace.

Bump

Ah, Raijin thought. Two political enemies down in one day. The Gods reward Krioval for our strength. "Prepare for immediate departure. We go to fulfill our destiny."
---------------
Some time later:

"Farmina air traffic control, this is Krioval One. We are approximately ten minutes from your airspace, and we request entry and transfer of prisoner Rickhart to Kriovalian custody. Please respond." Sakira switched off the transmission, waiting.

Secret IC:
"President Kowalski, Farmina is having strife after their recent election. What is our course of action?"

"Who would be the most destabilizing?" the President asked.

"We feel it would be the Fascists, sir."

"CM deals naught with Fascists. Who's next?"

"Uh, the Liberal Party and Conservative Party."

"Send a message to the Conservatives telling them our support is with them and include a 10 Million dollar bonus in gold and weaponry."

"Why destabialize them, sir?"

"We are really stabalizing them. We know what the Conservatives stand for, but the others scare me."


Emperor Justinian,
We have included a 10 million dollar (gold) gift to you for fighting the Fascists and are also including arms to help your men protect themselves.

Ah, Raijin thought. Two political enemies down in one day. The Gods reward Krioval for our strength. "Prepare for immediate departure. We go to fulfill our destiny."
---------------
Some time later:

"Farmina air traffic control, this is Krioval One. We are approximately ten minutes from your airspace, and we request entry and transfer of prisoner Rickhart to Kriovalian custody. Please respond." Sakira switched off the transmission, waiting.

"Krioval One, you are cleared to land on Strip 3. The prisoner is waiting there. Over," responded the Verica control tower.

Secret IC:
"President Kowalski, Farmina is having strife after their recent election. What is our course of action?"

"Who would be the most destabilizing?" the President asked.

"We feel it would be the Fascists, sir."

"CM deals naught with Fascists. Who's next?"

"Uh, the Liberal Party and Conservative Party."

"Send a message to the Conservatives telling them our support is with them and include a 10 Million dollar bonus in gold and weaponry."

"Why destabialize them, sir?"

"We are really stabalizing them. We know what the Conservatives stand for, but the others scare me."

Secret Communique To: President Mike Kowalski

I thank you President Kowalski for your generous donation. A Farminan government trading ship is currently in your ports. I suggest you load these items into containers marked "Fertilizer" and sell them to the ship at discount fertilizer prices. I'll have the crates skip customs and reach friendly hands on my side.

Emperor Justinian

“I find you guilty of conspiracy to commit grand larceny and guilty of conspiracy to destroy the Farminan way of life,” declared Justice Robert North, looking over the mass of Socialist accused, “You shall be punished by firing squad, with the allowance for executive action.”

That night:

Tonight on Farmina Nightly News, the last Socialists were convicted under the “Trials of Socialism” package. Nearly one million in total have been sentenced to death by various means, at various times, for various reasons. Those found guilty in the mass trials ranged from infants to the elderly. All the verdicts have left room for executive action…


…In an update on the Socialist punishment, Emperor Justinian has ordered executive action be taken. We shall now cross live to the White Palace to hear what Emperor Justinian has to say:

“Moral, hardworking Farminans, God looks down on you with love. The Socialist scourge however wishes to destroy morals, destroy hard work and are of the illusion they can also destroy God. I have made an executive action, that all of the Socialists who have been found guilty of violating Farminan law shall be executed tomorrow in Mirea. It will be the single greatest warning to our enemies ever before made and it shall sound like, ‘Try to destroy Farmina and we shall obliterate you’. We shall not tolerate this Socialist lawlessness. We shall rid Farmina of the genes of criminality found in this menace, for the strength of the Farminan people. In God’s name.”


Trains and trucks; the military and the police; worked throughout the night to amass the eight hundred thousand in Mirea, on a large series abandoned farms. By morning they would be ready for Justinian’s massacre. It would be a warning not just a warning to the Socialists, but also to the Fascist, a simple message of death to those who defy the Emperor.

In the Fascist Block Headquarters, the mood was somber, a victory met with a greater defeat.

Deputy Fascist leader Phillip Sullivan began, “You all know why we are here. We must elect a new leader to replace Dan…while he is gone.”

“While he is gone” seemed to have an ominous ring, ironic foreboding perhaps?

“I myself am running for Block leader, are there any other candidates?” asked Sullivan.

“I shall run,” said Fredrick Johnson, the head of the Nationalist Party.

“And I shall run too,” added Tobias Grey.

“Tobias, you are neither the head of a party or a chancellor. You lack the experience for the job,” observed Sullivan.

“I think pulling off a No Confidence vote against the Grand Chancellor shows my aptitude for politics,” retorted Grey.

There was a series of nodding heads to that comment.

“Very well,” said Sullivan, “Since I hear no other names, could you all please enter your preferred candidate into your computer.”

Sullivan typed his name in, and watched as the other Fascists also voted. He then read out the results, “Grey 36%, Johnson 41%, Sullivan 23%. Sullivan is eliminated, please revote.”

Everyone reenter their votes and Sullivan read the new results, “Grey 54%, Johnson 46%. Tobias Grey is the new block leader.”

There was a brief round of applause, then Grey stood up, “Fellow Fascists, the Conservatives mock us, this extradition is their biggest victory yet, but we shall not allow. Such an abuse is foul against our elected representatives. We shall take revenge for our loss in what could be described as the second round in this political game of fisticuffs. But we shall claim round three as we claimed round one.

For Farmina and for God.”

“FOR FARMINA AND FOR GOD,” echoed the Fascist crowd.

The meeting went on for a while, discussing tactics, not all of which were political.

At the end of the meeting Sullivan stood up and went over to Grey and said, “Tobias, you did well.”

“Thank you Phillip, I was worried when Johnson was leading. I guess it was logical since he leads the single largest party in the block, which is where all of his vote would have come from,” responded Grey.

“This belongs to you,” said Sullivan, “It is the key to your new office and the Block’s most vital secrets.”

“What secrets?” asked Grey.

“These secrets,” interrupted the Nationalist Party leader, handing over a locked metal box, “Instructions were made so only the person who won the vote would have access to the information, we did not expect that would be you.”

“I wish to see my office,” said Grey.

“Of course, this way,” responded Sullivan, who then proceeded up the stairs on the right.

“Well I shall be off,” said Johnson who turned and left.

“Goodbye,” said Grey, who then followed Sullivan up the stairs.

“Phillip, I will need a new deputy, interested in the job,” asked Grey.

“Since those who voted for me also voted for you, we seem a chip off a similar political, well, block. So I accept. Thank you Tobias,” said Sullivan pausing out the front of a door, “Here we are.”

Grey put the key in the lock and turned it before trying to open the door. “I must have locked it,” he said after the door failed to budge.

“Dan, wasn’t greatly concerned about the security of his office, just of the box,” said Phillip.

Grey turned the key again, unlocking the door, “Well I thank you for everything, especially your gracious nature as a loser.”

“Your welcome,” replied Sullivan, “Thank you for the job. Now I have work to do, my office is just next to this one if you need me.”

Sullivan then walked down the corridor, to his own office, while Grey entered his.

The first thing Grey noticed was that there seemed to be organized chaos, organization with time constraints. Grey walked over to his seat, sat down and placed the box on the table. It struck him as an odd way to keep secret documents, but none the less, he was eager to find what was inside.

He inserted the key into the lock and turned it with some speed. The box’s lid sprang open suddenly, to reveal a great bundle of folded pieces of paper.

What struck Tobias Grey as most curious was that he could see only one piece on white lined paper. He picked up the scrap and read the words imbedded on it, “Today I made a secret deal with Justinian. I controlled my supporters; he would share power with the Fascists.”

It was in that moment, the young Fascist saw an opportunity to strike at power more than his predecessor could dream of.

Professor Michael Walter stood before the podium. He was the most beloved and famous Farminan academics, a celebrity in his own right. When he talked people listened, and he felt his message needed to be heard.

“Fellow Farminans, we live in trying times, but Farmina has always had. We must be strong. Tomorrow morning, there we be a mass execution of criminal elements of the Socialist Block and its supporters. Some resent this or are cautious, but the risks in leaving them alive are too great. Socialism and crime are both evils of the blood, both must have their genetic criminality destroyed. I was the person who did the scientific research to prove it, we all know the truth, it is action that is required. If a million must die then so be it, as long as Farminan blood is pure and clean, without the foul stench of the Socialists who would see Satan ruler of the Earth.

In this day Socialism is not the only threat to Farmina’s stability. The Fascists think they can dictate the agenda, but to them we shall say no as well. Farmina’s Conservatives have long stood for what’s right, a pure nation under God, spreading Catholicism. These Fascists wish war for its own sake, blood for its own sake. Fellow Farminans to this we must say no.”

There was a loud applause, as his message went through homes around the country. The speech received condemnation by the Socialists and Fascists, but Professor Walter only promised more of the same.

Rings of barbed wire littered the fields at dawn. The day would see the fields of Mirea soaked in blood. The eight hundred thousand Socialist prisoners were already amassed, thousands of military and police had the sight secure. The media was already on site for the day’s events, cameras covering every inch, with orders made for one in every tent and a crowd was beginning to amass to watch the event.

The Socialists in the prisons of wire varied in age from infants to the elderly. Each wore a red badge stating name and crime to mark them out for execution. Children and adults cried alike, stripped over everything, but their final under garments.

“We need a tent for the Emperor,” said yelled a Captain. He walked over to one of the groups of prisoners.

“I want four Class Three prisoners with me,” he said gesturing at them with his gun, to come through the gap in the wire.

Three men and a boy emerged and the Captain pointed them over to where a pair of Privates were struggling with the tent. “All right each prisoner grab corner of the tent,” said the Captain.

Each prisoner did, although one did ask, “This isn’t a great way of doing it.”

“It’s the way we are doing it,” said the Captain, noticing that a third Private had joined him.

All the four military men picked up the large metal pegs, tied the rope around it and then grabbed a hammer.

The Captain looked at the Socialist he was standing behind with complete disdain. He held up the peg, knocking it swiftly with the hammer straight through the man’s spine. The others soldiers followed suit. The Captain hammered again, shoving the peg through the man’s chest. As the man lay bleeding and dead on the floor, the final blow came, pegging the tent securely to the ground. “Now you’ve seen how its done, I want all the tents pegged up this way.”

It had begun.

Justinian arrived shortly afterwards, to find four bodies, including that of a young boy, at the base of his tent, to which he commented, “Well there are a lot of them to kill. Get me a Class 2 prisoners and their family.”

When the guards returned with Justinian’s request he had already started a nice fire. “Prisoner,” began Justinian, “Strangle your family to death.”
“Never,” replied the Class 2.
“Very well,” said Justinian, grabbing a hot iron the fire.
“Your wife is very pretty,” said Justinian, who then slammed the hot iron into the woman’s left cheek.
She made a piecing scream. Again Justinian burnt her, this time on her belly. She continued to wail, when Justinian motioned for her bra to be removed. It was, and he struck again with iron, this time on her right breast. She screamed yet more. He pulled back the iron, before ramming it so hard against her chest she fell backwards into the fire, but he continued to hold down the iron against her, holding her in the flames as she withered and screamed until she stopped.

Justinian dropped the end of the iron into the fire to reheat before looking over at the remaining man and children. “You could have saved her all that pain,” he said shaking his head. Justinian then turned to the children, who were crying profusely, “They shouldn’t suffer.”
It was with this Justinian pulled out his pistol and shot both of the children in the head. He then looked over to the Class 2 prisoner, “Stay here, if you leave you shall be tortured as though you were a Class 1.”

Justinian then walked out of his tent, to hear a sudden series of wails. He looked up to see artillery shells falling from the sky onto one of the larger Class 3 pens. He gave a small nod of approval remembering that he had allocated many of the large Class 3 pens for training and testing.

Justinian’s guards escorted him over to the boxing rings, where elite boxers were paid large sums of money to beat socialist prisoners to death. It wasn’t something that particularly took his fancy. He left the ring he was watching, as the boxer began to pulverize an 80 year old Class 3 woman.

On the way back he and his guards stopped to watch several Socialists being burnt at the stake, and end that was much more to his liking.

After that Justinian returned to his tent to find his prisoner still there, and his wife’s body smoldering on the now out fire.

“Eat her,” ordered Justinian.

“No,” said the socialist, who began the painful process of strangling himself to death.

Suddenly he collapsed, alive, but without the energy to finish himself off. Justinian looked over to one of the tent guards before handing him the iron of the fire, “Take five minutes then kill him.”

Justinian and his personal again left his tent. On the way to Cardinal Treid’s tent, he heard a sudden series of shots from the far side of the ‘carnival.’ That probably meant a group of prisoners had just tried to escape.

Upon arriving he saw, what had been issued as standard punishment for a Class 1, slow mutilation while alive. Cardinal Treid’s personal guard had cut the Socialist’s foot open and were slowly scrapping of the nerve cells, one by one, a process that could take hours.

Justinian continued around for the rest of the day, watching and observing absurd deaths.

At five o’clock, everything stopped for Justinian’s brief address: “I hope all people have learnt from today what will and must happen to those who subvert the rule of law and God, those who take up the foul practice of Socialism. A million Socialists will be dead so you can live free and clean. All the Class 1 and 2 prisoners are dead, painfully most of the time. Only Class 3 prisoners remain which will be finished off by the military. The rest of you must leave, but the rest of the events will be transmitted by pre-placed cameras. These lands shall be sacred for the evil blood spilt here. The land shall have a permanent taint, so that we can be cleaner. This is a holy site, the Fields of Blood."

By six, civilians had left and the military moved in. Thousands of tanks, with bulldozer attachments prepared to move in, backed by infantry. Perimeter guards in place just in case. Artillery shells rained down on the fields to cause chaos, anarchy and fear.

The tanks and infantry fired on any socialist still alive, moving slowly through the area. Any corpses were crushed under the monstrous tanks, and human feet showed just as little respect. Those still alive were almost certainly crushed. Some Socialists tried to flee, but just ran into other soldiers, dieing in a rain of gunfire.

Once all was thought dead, the digging equipment moved in, although the patrols continued, hunting out a few who managed to escape. Huge holes were dug in the ground. Then the tanks did their true duty. The bodies of the dead, the barbed wire, the ruined tents, were all pushed indiscriminately into the holes. The infantry got out of the way, not wanting to join the corpses. The holes filled and more were dug for the lifeless and often greatly damaged bodies. By midnight the eight hundred thousand were buried.

In the morning the blood could still be seen. The Fields of Blood was an appropiate name.

OOC: This post actually has its own thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=408635), but this is the best place to respond, especially in response to the larger situation.

OOC: I'll assume this happens before the Socialist massacre.

"Krioval One, you are cleared to land on Strip 3. The prisoner is waiting there. Over," responded the Verica control tower.

The craft landed vertically. Tevak and Sakira were the first to step out, their armor radiant in the afternoon sun. While the focal point of anyone's view, the armor wasn't their main defense. The electrostatic and psionic shielding would prevent any projectiles from doing injury. Their training would take care of the rest. Then came Darvek, the Director of Kriovalian Security. He walked slowly toward the meeting point. "Darvek Tyvok, from Krioval," he said simply.

OOC: This is the night before the massacre (during Walter's speech and the Fascist ballot).

"Sergeant Brie, Farminan Defense Force," said the first guard.
"Private James," said the second.
"You can't do this to me. Your betraying you nation, where is your loyalty," started yelling Rickhart, "Putting Krioval before Farmina, that has to be treason, and when I get back I will see Chancellor Water hang."

Water then looked over at the Sergeant, "To bad a Fascist took your seat in the Councils, looks like you will be catching bullets again."

"Take him please," said Brie.

"You can't get rid of me see easy. The Fascists wil continue without me. They will be stronger because of this, the Conservatives trying to destroy a democratically elected..."

OOC: This is the night before the massacre (during Walter's speech and the Fascist ballot).

"Sergeant Brie, Farminan Defense Force," said the first guard.
"Private James," said the second.
"You can't do this to me. Your betraying you nation, where is your loyalty," started yelling Rickhart, "Putting Krioval before Farmina, that has to be treason, and when I get back I will see Chancellor Water hang."

Water then looked over at the Sergeant, "To bad a Fascist took your seat in the Councils, looks like you will be catching bullets again."

"Take him please," said Brie.

"You can't get rid of me see easy. The Fascists wil continue without me. They will be stronger because of this, the Conservatives trying to destroy a democratically elected..."

Darvek nodded at the guards. "Lord Raijin will be pleased I'm sure." Looking into the condemned man's eyes, he continued, "Pleased for several hours at least." As Rickhart railed at his captors, Darvek nodded at Tevak. The younger man appeared to concentrate for a moment, and the former Chancellor fell silent.

"We must be going. Things to arrange." The Kriovalians returned to their ship and took off. Darvek looked at the Fascist one more time. "I'd offer you a drink," he said, sarcasm dripping like venom, "but I'd hate for people to think you're in Krioval's pay."

Darvek nodded at the guards. "Lord Raijin will be pleased I'm sure." Looking into the condemned man's eyes, he continued, "Pleased for several hours at least." As Rickhart railed at his captors, Darvek nodded at Tevak. The younger man appeared to concentrate for a moment, and the former Chancellor fell silent.

"We must be going. Things to arrange." The Kriovalians returned to their ship and took off. Darvek looked at the Fascist one more time. "I'd offer you a drink," he said, sarcasm dripping like venom, "but I'd hate for people to think you're in Krioval's pay."

OOC: I'll check again in an hour, maybe 45 minutes.

IC: "Think your funny," said Rickhart, "Using extradition as a political tool was a nasty trick, but I can think of much nastier things. And I pray to the one true God, that they all happen to you."

After that he refused to talk for the rest of the flight.

The flight back was uneventful, and they arrived in Krioval just before dawn. Ordinary aircraft would have landed in Telekar, but the Commander's ships were allowed to travel straight to the capital. This would save some time. They disembarked under cover of darkness and proceeded to the lowest level of Torokara, in which the interrogation rooms were kept. Raijin and Kiv were already waiting, as were a host of various psionic assistants. They doubted that Rickhart had any major security secrets, and even if he did, Farminan technology was less advanced than Kriovals - a fact that had saved the Republic from becoming part of an Empire.

The Commander spoke. "Glad you could finally make it. Time being short, I have some forms for you to look over. Standard stuff, really. Attorney request, location, time of entry." He put the papers on the table. "Take some time to look them over if you'd like."

The flight back was uneventful, and they arrived in Krioval just before dawn. Ordinary aircraft would have landed in Telekar, but the Commander's ships were allowed to travel straight to the capital. This would save some time. They disembarked under cover of darkness and proceeded to the lowest level of Torokara, in which the interrogation rooms were kept. Raijin and Kiv were already waiting, as were a host of various psionic assistants. They doubted that Rickhart had any major security secrets, and even if he did, Farminan technology was less advanced than Kriovals - a fact that had saved the Republic from becoming part of an Empire.

The Commander spoke. "Glad you could finally make it. Time being short, I have some forms for you to look over. Standard stuff, really. Attorney request, location, time of entry." He put the papers on the table. "Take some time to look them over if you'd like."

Rickhart looked at the papers. His first temptation was to rip them up and throw them back, but he doubted that would help him much.

So he picked up his pen and started filling out the forms, including requesting an attorney.

OOC: Mind if I do something incredibly evil? It's kind of FT-ish but IC for Krioval, and it just speeds up the whole "show trial" thing a ton. If not, meh, I can do a fair trial as well, I guess.

Rickhart looked at the papers. His first temptation was to rip them up and throw them back, but he doubted that would help him much.

So he picked up his pen and started filling out the forms, including requesting an attorney.

The Commander picked up the papers and stuffed them into a folder. He motioned to several guards. "Take him to a cell for the time being. There is much to be done now." Raijin Dekker walked out of the room, with Kiv and Darvek following. The guards motioned to the Farminan prisoner, who was then moved to a secure location

OOC: Mind if I do something incredibly evil? It's kind of FT-ish but IC for Krioval, and it just speeds up the whole "show trial" thing a ton. If not, meh, I can do a fair trial as well, I guess.



The Commander picked up the papers and stuffed them into a folder. He motioned to several guards. "Take him to a cell for the time being. There is much to be done now." Raijin Dekker walked out of the room, with Kiv and Darvek following. The guards motioned to the Farminan prisoner, who was then moved to a secure location

OOC: I don't mind.

IC: "Whats for tea," yelled out the prisoner as he was dragged off.

Raijin smiled as he reached his office. The sun was still low in the east, promising a long but rewarding day. He removed the folder of papers that had Rickhart's signature and watched as the illusion faded, revealing the words "waiver" in several key locations. It was his insurance policy against any rash act on Justinian's part over the next few days. For example, if his "trials" against the Socialist suspects resulted in a genocide, well, it had been several months since the Gods of Krioval had received a blood sacrifice. The United Nations would howl, of course, but the Commander intended to make it look either like an accident, or better yet, an aborted escape attempt.

The signs were auspicious. Hurricane Corinne was approaching Torokara and picking up speed. Raijin was not overly superstitious, but he couldn't help but link the storm coming to Krioval to a more nebulous storm heading to Farmina. The Gods were sharpening their weapons and polishing their armor. Even if Krioval didn't become directly involved, there was no way to avoid involvement of some sort. As he thought on the nature of storms and war, the Commander slipped from consciousness even as the sun rose higher in the sky. The day before the storm was always the most tranquil.
-----------------
Tevak and Sakira were assigned to ask Rickhart questions. So they did, though reluctantly. He would obviously be upset about the lack of lawyer, but there was a ready explanation - Kriovalian bureaucracy slowed things down sometimes, and it's difficult to find a good, solid attorney willing to take such a high-profile case. Blah blah blah. After all, an order direct from Raijin was a law unto itself.

"Lord Rickhart. We would like to know whether your involvement in recent events was undertaken with the permission of your government. Is there any truth in such claims?"

It had begun in earnest.

OOC: I'll probably start (yet) another thread to continue what's likely to be quite the messy event, unless you'd like it specifically here or in your "Socialist Purge" thread.

Raijin smiled as he reached his office. The sun was still low in the east, promising a long but rewarding day. He removed the folder of papers that had Rickhart's signature and watched as the illusion faded, revealing the words "waiver" in several key locations. It was his insurance policy against any rash act on Justinian's part over the next few days. For example, if his "trials" against the Socialist suspects resulted in a genocide, well, it had been several months since the Gods of Krioval had received a blood sacrifice. The United Nations would howl, of course, but the Commander intended to make it look either like an accident, or better yet, an aborted escape attempt.

The signs were auspicious. Hurricane Corinne was approaching Torokara and picking up speed. Raijin was not overly superstitious, but he couldn't help but link the storm coming to Krioval to a more nebulous storm heading to Farmina. The Gods were sharpening their weapons and polishing their armor. Even if Krioval didn't become directly involved, there was no way to avoid involvement of some sort. As he thought on the nature of storms and war, the Commander slipped from consciousness even as the sun rose higher in the sky. The day before the storm was always the most tranquil.
-----------------
Tevak and Sakira were assigned to ask Rickhart questions. So they did, though reluctantly. He would obviously be upset about the lack of lawyer, but there was a ready explanation - Kriovalian bureaucracy slowed things down sometimes, and it's difficult to find a good, solid attorney willing to take such a high-profile case. Blah blah blah. After all, an order direct from Raijin was a law unto itself.

"Lord Rickhart. We would like to know whether your involvement in recent events was undertaken with the permission of your government. Is there any truth in such claims?"

It had begun in earnest.

OOC: I'll probably start (yet) another thread to continue what's likely to be quite the messy event, unless you'd like it specifically here or in your "Socialist Purge" thread.

Rickhart answered carefully, "Specify recent events."

Rickhart answered carefully, "Specify recent events."

"Recent political events," Tevak said evenly. "Were you trying to incite a war against Krioval?"

"If so, to what end? Our defenses are more than capable. Or is it something more insidious?" Sakira said, on the heels of the other's question.

"Recent political events," Tevak said evenly. "Were you trying to incite a war against Krioval?"

"If so, to what end? Our defenses are more than capable. Or is it something more insidious?" Sakira said, on the heels of the other's question.
OOC: The other thread is just advertising, a massacre of that size needs public recognition.

IC:
"I was not trying to incite a war," said Rickhart, "Just to defend our nation against the polytheist threat."

Secret Communique To: President Mike Kowalski

I thank you President Kowalski for your generous donation. A Farminan government trading ship is currently in your ports. I suggest you load these items into containers marked "Fertilizer" and sell them to the ship at discount fertilizer prices. I'll have the crates skip customs and reach friendly hands on my side.

Emperor Justinian
We have seen your fertilizer work before. We shall send it laballed as "Corn" and "Foodstuffs".
--President Kowalski

We have seen your fertilizer work before. We shall send it laballed as "Corn" and "Foodstuffs".
--President Kowalski

Did you not like my sense of humour?

Emperor Justinian

Tevak turned to Sakira. "Some kind of propaganda machine they've got going there."

"A true believer. How annoying," she said in response. "Tell me, Mr. Rickhart, do you enjoy watching people be tortured and killed?"

Unbeknownst to the two guards, Raijin himself was on his way to the cell. Matters had once again got out of hand, and Rickhart's fate was now cast into uncertainty.

Tevak turned to Sakira. "Some kind of propaganda machine they've got going there."

"A true believer. How annoying," she said in response. "Tell me, Mr. Rickhart, do you enjoy watching people be tortured and killed?"

Unbeknownst to the two guards, Raijin himself was on his way to the cell. Matters had once again got out of hand, and Rickhart's fate was now cast into uncertainty.

"I certainly do not," responded Rickhart.

OOC: I'm splitting this thread, old stuff stays here new stuff goes there
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=408910

OOC: Does talking to Rickhart constitute "old stuff"? (I'd say yes, but that's me)

OOC: Does talking to Rickhart constitute "old stuff"? (I'd say yes, but that's me)

Yes thats old stuff.

New stuff will include the next council session.

The door slid open noiselessly. The Commander entered the cell and looked critically at the Farminan man. "Tevak, if you could, remove the cuffs from him. I'd hate for half of the government to think that I'd become interested in bondage." He chuckled. "Now, Mister Rickhart, please come with me. I have a few questions I would like to ask you, and I'd rather do it somewhere with decent furniture. And maybe some of that tea you'd asked for earlier."

The door slid open noiselessly. The Commander entered the cell and looked critically at the Farminan man. "Tevak, if you could, remove the cuffs from him. I'd hate for half of the government to think that I'd become interested in bondage." He chuckled. "Now, Mister Rickhart, please come with me. I have a few questions I would like to ask you, and I'd rather do it somewhere with decent furniture. And maybe some of that tea you'd asked for earlier."

"Yes that would be nice," said Rickhart nerviously, "Whats happening in Farmina, now that I'm gone?"

"Yes that would be nice," said Rickhart nerviously, "Whats happening in Farmina, now that I'm gone?"

Raijin never broke stride as he spoke. "It looks like your Emperor personally presided over the execution of about one million Socialists. Quite a messy execution at that, what with the tortures inflicted." His voice lowered slightly. "Consider yourself lucky that Krioval abandoned those practices. I have also heard something about a Professor. Water, Walker, I forget the name. Anyway, step onto this platform, if you would."

Raijin never broke stride as he spoke. "It looks like your Emperor personally presided over the execution of about one million Socialists. Quite a messy execution at that, what with the tortures inflicted." His voice lowered slightly. "Consider yourself lucky that Krioval abandoned those practices. I have also heard something about a Professor. Water, Walker, I forget the name. Anyway, step onto this platform, if you would."

Rickhart stepped onto the platform, "Professor Walter, he funded most of the Conservative election campaign, and won them half their votes. Very important man."

Rickhart stepped onto the platform, "Professor Walter, he funded most of the Conservative election campaign, and won them half their votes. Very important man."

The platform began to rise without any obvious means of power. "It's anti-gravitic," Raijin said, as if to forestall questions about the technology. "Professor Walter. That's it. His family was killed during the night. That would have been the afternoon there."

OOC: I made Farmina and Krioval literally twelve hours opposite one another - it makes for a convenient RP device and explains how we've never gone to war.

The platform began to rise without any obvious means of power. "It's anti-gravitic," Raijin said, as if to forestall questions about the technology. "Professor Walter. That's it. His family was killed during the night. That would have been the afternoon there."

OOC: I made Farmina and Krioval literally twelve hours opposite one another - it makes for a convenient RP device and explains how we've never gone to war.
"My goodness," said Rickhart, "Was it us?"

"My goodness," said Rickhart, "Was it us?"

"Either you or the Socialists." He gave the man a bemused look. "It's not as if we've got spies in there giving us the play-by-play." The lift continued its ascent, nearing the top of its rather long route. "Don't worry if your ears pop. Happens all the time. We're going up quite a distance."

"Either you or the Socialists." He gave the man a bemused look. "It's not as if we've got spies in there giving us the play-by-play." The lift continued its ascent, nearing the top of its rather long route. "Don't worry if your ears pop. Happens all the time. We're going up quite a distance."

"Socialists," said Rickhart, "Just a wish, but I'd rather them be purged than us."

"Socialists," said Rickhart, "Just a wish, but I'd rather them be purged than us."

The lift gradually stopped. "What exactly is it with you people and your purges, anyway? Ah, this is it. Torokara, level six. Watch your step."

The lift gradually stopped. "What exactly is it with you people and your purges, anyway? Ah, this is it. Torokara, level six. Watch your step."

"Justinian is a machine, he calculates results of actions. But in his calculation he makes the mistake of thinking others calculate. As Justinian loses control, he feels removing the threat will save more lives than the purge itself. He believes he is doing the right thing in the eyes of the majority. Thats his problem, Justinian is too rational," said Rickhart.

"Justinian is a machine, he calculates results of actions. But in his calculation he makes the mistake of thinking others calculate. As Justinian loses control, he feels removing the threat will save more lives than the purge itself. He believes he is doing the right thing in the eyes of the majority. Thats his problem, Justinian is too rational," said Rickhart.

Raijin walked to a reinforced window. "Look outside. Hurricane Corinne has been raging at Krioval for nearly twenty hours now. Yet it cannot breach the strength of our construction." The Commander looked at the Farminan to gauge his reaction. "It is as powerful as some of our strongest weapons, the storm, but it lacks both the focus and the desire to do real harm. Certainly a few buildings will sustain damage, and the lives of a few incautious will be lost. But tomorrow, the sun will shine on Krioval." The Kriovalian motioned toward a chair, and took one on the opposite side of the ornate conference table.

"I may as well get right to the point. You will likely be in Krioval for some time. What type of tea do you prefer, anyway?"

Raijin walked to a reinforced window. "Look outside. Hurricane Corinne has been raging at Krioval for nearly twenty hours now. Yet it cannot breach the strength of our construction." The Commander looked at the Farminan to gauge his reaction. "It is as powerful as some of our strongest weapons, the storm, but it lacks both the focus and the desire to do real harm. Certainly a few buildings will sustain damage, and the lives of a few incautious will be lost. But tomorrow, the sun will shine on Krioval." The Kriovalian motioned toward a chair, and took one on the opposite side of the ornate conference table.

"I may as well get right to the point. You will likely be in Krioval for some time. What type of tea do you prefer, anyway?"

"I prefer Nepalese tea leaves, and I like my tea hinted with something, perhaps eucalyptus if possible," said Rickhart.

"I prefer Nepalese tea leaves, and I like my tea hinted with something, perhaps eucalyptus if possible," said Rickhart.

Went right over his head, Raijin thought. Thought he was a little quicker than that. No matter. "I'll see what I can do. Might have to settle for something offworld." The man flashed a quick grin at the thought and then turned to his communications link. "Anyone down there?"

A voice responded. "Of course, Commander Raijin. What can I do for you?"

"I need some tea, for a guest. Bring up enough for seven, please."

"Seven?"

"Oh. Sorry. Could you get a hold of 'lover boy' and the other two?"

There was a hesitation on the other end. "Uh...sir? The Directors are rather busy right now, and..."

"Lieutenant, I have a man up here whose homeland is due to explode into civil war before the week is out. Do what I tell you to do. That's what you get paid for."

"Yes, Lord Raijin." A rather sullen-sounding exhalation was heard before the link was terminated.

His attention back on Rickhart, he said, "Kids these days, ya know?"

Went right over his head, Raijin thought. Thought he was a little quicker than that. No matter. "I'll see what I can do. Might have to settle for something offworld." The man flashed a quick grin at the thought and then turned to his communications link. "Anyone down there?"

A voice responded. "Of course, Commander Raijin. What can I do for you?"

"I need some tea, for a guest. Bring up enough for seven, please."

"Seven?"

"Oh. Sorry. Could you get a hold of 'lover boy' and the other two?"

There was a hesitation on the other end. "Uh...sir? The Directors are rather busy right now, and..."

"Lieutenant, I have a man up here whose homeland is due to explode into civil war before the week is out. Do what I tell you to do. That's what you get paid for."

"Yes, Lord Raijin." A rather sullen-sounding exhalation was heard before the link was terminated.

His attention back on Rickhart, he said, "Kids these days, ya know?"

"Wouldn't have clue," said Rickhart, "No kids myself."

"Wouldn't have clue," said Rickhart, "No kids myself."

"Look. I'm not here to kill you. Nor am I all that interested in Farmina's state secrets. In fact, the court decided to drop the Bralos charges completely. But there's still a problem."

There was a slight knock at the door before it opened, and the three Directors entered. Kiv took a place next to Raijin without saying a word, but eyeing the Farminan suspiciously. Standing a bit taller than the Commander, the Military Director was a sight to behold.

Darvek also saw Rickhart, and snorted derisively. "Should be fun."

Koro was perhaps a bit more receptive in that he shrugged and said, "First time here?"

"Look. I'm not here to kill you. Nor am I all that interested in Farmina's state secrets. In fact, the court decided to drop the Bralos charges completely. But there's still a problem."

There was a slight knock at the door before it opened, and the three Directors entered. Kiv took a place next to Raijin without saying a word, but eyeing the Farminan suspiciously. Standing a bit taller than the Commander, the Military Director was a sight to behold.

Darvek also saw Rickhart, and snorted derisively. "Should be fun."

Koro was perhaps a bit more receptive in that he shrugged and said, "First time here?"

"What is going on?" yelled Rickhart, "Return me to Farmina. If you lay a finger on me, I'll, I'll..."

"What is going on?" yelled Rickhart, "Return me to Farmina. If you lay a finger on me, I'll, I'll..."

Darvek burst out laughing. "Uh, it'd be six on one in the center of Krioval, and, uh, we're all armed. What you'd do is fall over in about three seconds."

"Darvek!" Raijin turned to the Security Director. "While the thought may have crossed my mind," he admitted, "we do not mistreat our visitors. Koro, would you clarify the situation for Mister Rickhart?"

"Well," he paused, searching for the right words. "After the mass killing in Farmina, several nations placed an embargo on your nation. Some are trying to set up a blockade, and a few have even declared war. So there's no real way to get you back there without risking a Kriovalian airship. Oh! Krioval no longer recognizes Emperor Justinian's government, either." Koro Vartek almost looked pleased with himself, as he had nearly forgotten the last 'detail'.

"Not to mention the hurricane," Kiv added, pouring himself and Raijin a cup of tea before passing it to the other side of the table. "Anyway, it's about midnight there, so until we know what's going on for sure, you're stuck with us."

"Don't worry," Darvek said. "We don't bite. Unless we're really pissed off, anyway."

Darvek burst out laughing. "Uh, it'd be six on one in the center of Krioval, and, uh, we're all armed. What you'd do is fall over in about three seconds."

"Darvek!" Raijin turned to the Security Director. "While the thought may have crossed my mind," he admitted, "we do not mistreat our visitors. Koro, would you clarify the situation for Mister Rickhart?"

"Well," he paused, searching for the right words. "After the mass killing in Farmina, several nations placed an embargo on your nation. Some are trying to set up a blockade, and a few have even declared war. So there's no real way to get you back there without risking a Kriovalian airship. Oh! Krioval no longer recognizes Emperor Justinian's government, either." Koro Vartek almost looked pleased with himself, as he had nearly forgotten the last 'detail'.

"Not to mention the hurricane," Kiv added, pouring himself and Raijin a cup of tea before passing it to the other side of the table. "Anyway, it's about midnight there, so until we know what's going on for sure, you're stuck with us."

"Don't worry," Darvek said. "We don't bite. Unless we're really pissed off, anyway."
"Stopped recognising Justinian," laughed Rickhart, "The kids going to chuck a fit."

"Stopped recognising Justinian," laughed Rickhart, "The kids going to chuck a fit."

"He certainly wasn't happy to hear about it, that's for sure," Raijin said. "The problem is what to do with you now."

"Send him on a whirlwind date with Corinne, maybe," Darvek grumbled.

"We might lose our UN membership if we did," Koro said.

The Commander laughed. "Bet you never thought the UN could do something useful for you, huh?"

"He certainly wasn't happy to hear about it, that's for sure," Raijin said. "The problem is what to do with you now."

"Send him on a whirlwind date with Corinne, maybe," Darvek grumbled.

"We might lose our UN membership if we did," Koro said.

The Commander laughed. "Bet you never thought the UN could do something useful for you, huh?"

"I don't have a clue, why the hell did you bring me here in the first place if it wasn't a trial?" asked Rickhart.

"I don't have a clue, why the hell did you bring me here in the first place if it wasn't a trial?" asked Rickhart.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Raijin said, suddenly animated. "Would you prefer a show trial followed by a grisly execution despite lack of evidence? I bet it'd feel just like home."

OOC: Not that I mind the conversation, but where'd you like this to be heading?

"Oh, I'm sorry," Raijin said, suddenly animated. "Would you prefer a show trial followed by a grisly execution despite lack of evidence? I bet it'd feel just like home."

"You have seen our court trials. They are open. The only trials that aren't open are council based," snapped Rickhart, "Now can you please make up your mind and get on with it."

OOC: Not that I mind the conversation, but where'd you like this to be heading?

I'm not sure. With the main part of the thread Tobias Grey has a brilliant scheme, but that can wait. I don't know what to do with the warmongers, most are godmodding noobs who i have/will probably ignore(d).

"You have seen our court trials. They are open. The only trials that aren't open are council based," snapped Rickhart, "Now can you please make up your mind and get on with it."

"And which types of trials lead to old women and babies being slaughtered in their homes?" Darvek snapped.

Raijin waved him off. "The problem is that we can't repatriate you until there's a stable government in your home nation. Are there any governments that might take you? Of course, you're allowed to remain here as well. But you would find your motion necessarily restricted, for your own safety and the national security of Krioval."

"Problem is," Koro piped up, "wars are breaking out all over the place. Krioval's going to be one of the few places on Earth not fighting, the way things are going. Like Roach-Busters..."

"And which types of trials lead to old women and babies being slaughtered in their homes?" Darvek snapped.

Raijin waved him off. "The problem is that we can't repatriate you until there's a stable government in your home nation. Are there any governments that might take you? Of course, you're allowed to remain here as well. But you would find your motion necessarily restricted, for your own safety and the national security of Krioval."

"Problem is," Koro piped up, "wars are breaking out all over the place. Krioval's going to be one of the few places on Earth not fighting, the way things are going. Like Roach-Busters..."

"And what happens to me if I stay here?" asked Rickheart.

"And what happens to me if I stay here?" asked Rickheart.

"Oh, I could think of a few things." Again, Darvek had decided to push forth. "Isn't 'Soldiers' Day' coming up in a few weeks?"

"Soldiers' Day?" Kiv asked, surprised. "I don't think that that's something we need to be discussing here."

"Well," the Commander interrupted, pretending not to hear the others, "I can't send you home. I can't just lock you up for the hell of it. I can't kill you. So that leaves me with yet another mess to deal with. Is there any person you can think of for me to contact who could take you? Otherwise I'm going to have to get a bit...creative."

"Oh, I could think of a few things." Again, Darvek had decided to push forth. "Isn't 'Soldiers' Day' coming up in a few weeks?"

"Soldiers' Day?" Kiv asked, surprised. "I don't think that that's something we need to be discussing here."

"Well," the Commander interrupted, pretending not to hear the others, "I can't send you home. I can't just lock you up for the hell of it. I can't kill you. So that leaves me with yet another mess to deal with. Is there any person you can think of for me to contact who could take you? Otherwise I'm going to have to get a bit...creative."

"I could go to Guffingford," suggested Rickhart, "I doubt they would take me but."

"I could go to Guffingford," suggested Rickhart, "I doubt they would take me but."

Raijin nodded. "You know how to use one of these things?" he asked, pointing to a generic-looking communications console. "Shouldn't be any more complicated than what you're used to."

OOC: Time for me to go to bed! Let me know if it works out with Guffingford.

Did you not like my sense of humour?

Emperor Justinian

Not since your "fertilizer" was on a contaminated carrier carrying the ebola we launched against you and you had thusly and inderectly sparked our Civil War. I might just thank you later for doing this to get rid of the liberal who started this trouble.
--Kowalski

Raijin nodded. "You know how to use one of these things?" he asked, pointing to a generic-looking communications console. "Shouldn't be any more complicated than what you're used to."

OOC: Time for me to go to bed! Let me know if it works out with Guffingford.

OOC: Actually, lets just say he takes refuge in ViZion, they let everyone in.

OOC: Actually, lets just say he takes refuge in ViZion, they let everyone in.

OOC: Works for me. Your character, so your RP. It's too bad on some level, because I'd originally planned to use him as a human sacrifice. Damn UN! :p

OOC: Works for me. Your character, so your RP. It's too bad on some level, because I'd originally planned to use him as a human sacrifice. Damn UN! :p

You may want to follow the story on the new threads. The best is yet to come.