NationStates Jolt Archive

The posters scattered along the apartment block all yelled “VICTORY,” in large white letters against a black background. Every poster Henry passed was another kick in the gut. To him they yelled “DEFEAT.” The Militia Enforced State had gone to war with Farmina twice and twice it had thrown in the towel.

Underneath the words was a picture. Henry suspected the reason that so many Farminan propaganda posters had pictures on was because they were too illiterate to read. This image was one the Farminans loved reusing; a Farminan hawk tearing apart the Messian flag. It had been used frequently during the war, nowadays it wasn’t so popular. Nowadays the Militia Enforced State used a new flag, but the Farminans hadn’t been bothered updating their flag. Typical lazy Farminans.

Henry continued on as the wind suddenly turned south with a sharp chill, as a Farminan military patrol vehicle passed by. These days security in Trinity was incredibly tight. Like dogs, the Farminans guarded their winnings with great jealously. With that bitter thought, the wind picked up, leaves along the street jumped up and made small leaps south. “South back to the Militia Enforced State,” thought Henry, bitterly, “The leaves have good instincts at least.”

Trinity had been prosperous (by Messian standards) before the war, and economically things had been better since the war. But what did the economy matter, when the world was going crazy? As he turned the corner, Henry remembered that fateful day, he had been there, when the insanity became law.

An obese man with a short distinctive beard, dark greasy hair had sat in the middle. The fat man had reeked of importance, as though his immense girth was in fact the result of status and not food consumed over the years. He was Tobias Grey, President of Farmina, enemy of all true Trinitites. True Messians, not the money hungry turncoats that formed the Trinity Provincial Government and its employees, nor those who took Farminan silver (as opposed to good Messian currency) from the Trinity Provincial Police to sell out their families and neighbours…

On the left of the Farminan delegation…no, it was on Henry’s left, which made it the Farminan delegation’s right, was Force Commander Lance Foster of the Militia Enforced State and his delegation. Potentially a great leader, but he and his kin lost two wars to Farmina, costing much more than national pride.

Then on the left sat the President Jacob Syra of the Republic of Scirenia. Another stinking Farminan puppet. It was as though you could see the fat fool pull the strings that made Jacob Syra move. All of Scirenia nothing more than a bunch of Farminan patsies, stabbing us in the back at the first opportunity.

Tobias picked up a copy of the treaty to gloat. The treaty was signed in Trinity, which had fallen to Farminan forces a few months before; again he was gloating. Having his Scirenian puppets approve the treaty, incessant gloating. It was as though Tobias would not allow Foster and the Militia Enforce State to forget they had been defeated, and not just once but twice…badly.

“All signatories find themselves at peace on the following conditions.
Item 1, all signatories recognises the Province of Trinity and the Province of Arandior as legitimate parts of the sovereign Democratic Republic of Farmina. The Militia Enforced State shall also turn over the Island of Borteloga to the Democratic Republic of Farmina.
Item 2, all signatories hereby recognise the Republic of Scirenia as sovereign and independent, and recognise its constitution as legitimate.
Item 3, The Constitution for a Democratic Messian State, as per Appendix A, is recognised by all signatories as the legitimate constitution of the Militia Enforced State.
Item 4, the Militia Enforced State will surrender all powers for regulating trade to the Farminan parliament.
Item 5, the Militia Enforced State will be disbarred from space.
Item 6, the Militia Enforced State will divide its offshore assets as per Appendix B.
Item 7, the Militia Enforced State will restrict its military to the limitations suggested in Appendix C, “A Sustainable Messian Military,” disbarring conscription and WMD.
Item 8, the Militia Enforced State takes full responsibility for the war.
Item 9, the Militia Enforced State will pay the full cost of the war for other parties, to the amount determined by the Council for Reparations.”

It was too much for Henry, his home was going to be in a different country. He would be a foreigner in the Militia Enforced State, despite being born there. The copies of the treaty went around the table, each leader taking their turn to sign the desolate future for the Militia Enforced State and the Province of Trinity. As Tobias Grey’s fat hand held the pen firmly in his grip, Henry knew that was exactly how, the Farminan planned to hold Trinity…

Another patrol vehicle passed Henry, waking him up for his day dream. was most of the way home. Grey clouds were forming overhead. The wind had probably blown them in; likely to rain overnight. The vehicle slowed down and pulled over, Farminans in green-grey skittled out armed with sub-machine guns, a couple carried assault rifles. Back during the war, nearly all the Farminan soldiers carried assault rifles for the extra range. Now, they carried extra firepower in case extreme levels of ‘crowd control’ was required. So far there had only been a couple of minor incidents.

Henry passed another Farminan propaganda poster; someone had sprayed a large ‘MES’ down it in an act of rebellion. You didn’t see many like that. The Farminans came down hard if they caught you and with the Farminans so numerous, and their spies so many, being caught was highly likely. Furthermore, the all too numerous Farminans (along with their lackeys) removed graffiti and anti-Farmina posters faster than the pro-MES Trinitites could put them up. In fact, the Farminans in green-grey that had come from the patrol vehicle were again busy tearing down posters and putting their own up. Actually half went about ensuring the walls looked like they wanted, the other half stood guard, as though expecting the war to recommence any minute.

“Halt,” ordered one of the older (although not) soldiers; tall and bulky with a scar across his face.

“I wasn’t doing anything,” insisted Henry, “I was just walking home.”

“Random searches,” said the soldier, who Henry suddenly realised had a Sergeant’s markings, “We can’t be too careful. Intel has that there is a big batch of explosives loose and the spooks can’t seem to find it.”

“Good,” thought Henry, although he suspected that it wouldn’t take the Farminans too long to find it, they had eyes and ears everywhere.

He spread his arms and legs out casually to be searched. As the Sergeant walked over to him, Henry observed something he hadn’t noticed before, the Farminans weren’t just taking down anything pro-Messian, they were removing their own posters that had begun to age. Henry didn’t see how keeping all the posters fresh would win over the people of Trinity, but then again Henry didn’t understand how the minds of Farminans worked. To be honest, the operation of a Farminan mind was not something Henry wanted to consider.

***

Life in the MES had changed dramatically in the past few months; from the hostile takeover by a dictator, the war against Farmina, and now, the democratization of the MES. The proud image of what was born almost a century ago, was now irreparably tarnished and demolished. Former Force Commander Lance Foster had nightmares at night over the past year. He couldn’t believe that it had been less than half a year for everything to come down the way it did; it scared him immensely

No matter, the past was the past, he thought to himself as he checked his boots and his nice coat. He looked up, smiled, and walked through the double door in front of him.

“Holy shit...” Foster stated bluntly, under his breath as he saw the massive crowd of supporters. He expected it; this was the Messian capital, and many were still loyal, even after all things considered. However, he didn't know if they were there for his speech, or because of his honourable background.

He stepped up to the podium, and cleared his throat. “Greetings, fellow Messians. I am here to introduce the new Loyalist party, to help bring this new democracy to a terrific start, led by someone you can trust!”

***

Timothy ‘Lucan’ kissed Tia on the cheek, “Are you sure this is what you want?”

Tia smiled, returning the kiss to the Farminan, “You’re all I have left. I’m a traitor, I have no family, my friends disown me, if not plan on reporting me outright, and my home’s been sold to the highest bidder.”

Timothy wore medium length red hair. Lucan wasn’t his real name. Neither was Reis before that. Kael was him name, but that life had long since passed into the history books. Timothy and Tia had been agents of the tyrant Snyder, but during that time, Timothy had been working for another master, a powerful Farminan political figure.

Again, James Palmer of Farmina required Timothy to perform his work in the Militia Enforced State. Timothy would again serve without question.

Timothy straightened his tie, “Then its time for me to meet the future.”

She smiled, and gave him another kiss. “Go get’em Timmy,” she said, intentionally in a very corny way.

“It’s the man you’ve all been waiting to here…Mister Timothy Lucan.”

The crowd burst into applause on the opposite of the curtain. Timothy walked out onto the weary wooden stage without looking back. Floor creaked under Kael’s dark heavy shoes as they thudded along the floor. The aging theatre had been deliberately chosen, and not only because of the budget that threatened to strangle the campaign.

The audience sparkled. Cameras were going off, not only because of supporters gathered through Timothy’s rabble rousing, but he also had the media’s attention. The newspapers had dubbed him a ‘major competitor’ and he still hadn’t announced any intention for his organisation to compete. That was largely his own doing, playing people, the media, into his web.

The last of the solid footsteps on the creaky floor was heard when Timothy reached the lectern. His blue tie shone against his dark suit, under the harsh theatre lighting. The audience fell obediently silent without any words other than his body language. Young, charismatic, large and strong all played central roles in the political brand Timothy was trying to sell. And tonight he would sell it again.

“Ladies and gentlemen, today Lance Foster officially opened the election race and already thousands of candidates representing hundreds of parties have declared their intention to join the race. Only a handful will successfully acquire any power.

The socialists tell us the economy of old that kept our people poor and hungry is the way of the future. I tell them that they are delusional.

The hardliners call for our country to continue fighting the war against Farmina despite the fact we have already lost. I call that insanity. Considering the harsh terms the Militia Enforced State has only just accepted, imagine what Tobias Grey would do to us if we launched a full scale invasion of the Republic of Scirenia with the scraps of a military we have left.

The greens believe we can save our beloved country by chaining ourselves to trees and turning our back on industry. That my friends if foolishness. How can we feed our people, clothe our children or pay off our debts without the great wheel of industry turning?

Religious conservatives of all colours of tell us that the future requires God to be brought back into politics. They say God has turned his back on the MES and given his blessing to Farmina and the Republic of Scirenia. Such a claim I call dogma. God is surely above politics. And if He wants to play a role in politics he should announce his own candidacy and not have an assortment of fanatics do it for him.”

That line received a laugh, just as Timothy expected it to. He continued on, “Lance Foster also announced his nomination…”

Timothy was drowned out for a few seconds by booing and hissing, a problem of his own creation due to his previous speeches about the ‘rot’, “The old guard, the military aristocracy, tell us it will all be okay. Nothing is wrong. The old way is safe and trust worthy. The freefall of the credit as the printing presses go into overtime is just a hiccup. The old guard tells us that the planned economy is working out fine, yet we were barely on the poverty line before the reparations commenced and things are only getting worse. Under the rule of the military aristocracy, our nation saw years of complete tyranny under martial law. There were brief experiments with democracy but they were abandoned in exchange for a perpetuation of the old ways. Intense central planning strangled the life from the economy, as the military aristocracy launched a war against Farmina over Arandior. After losing the Arandior War, how did the military aristocracy try to redeem itself? Seeking redemption, the military aristocracy lost a second a war against Farmina, for which the entire nation is now paying the price…”

Rage swept around the room, the sound of resentment against two humiliating defeats could be heard throughout the room.

“…the same military aristocracy of which Force Commander Lance Foster is a member. After sinking the ship, Force Commander Foster has the gall to ask for a second chance at the helm.”

After working up the crowd that had been seething from the moment MES threw in the towel (some even earlier), Kael needed to give them a few moments to wind down so they didn’t begin shouting abuse at Foster for the rest of the speech.

“The candidates who have nominated are a combination of idiots and madmen. The parties that are vying for your vote are offering you a choice between a lunatic’s vision of the future or a revisionist’s reheating of the past. You, the good people of the Militia Enforced State have been given no real choice in candidates and no real choice for the future...” Timothy allowed a brief pause, “…Until now.”

Somewhere in Farmina, Jamie Palmer would be nodding as his agent worked up a frenzy.

The crowd began to give a confirmatory roar, even before the word’s left Timothy’s lips, “May I announce that I intend to run for a seat in the lower house of the new Parliament and it is my intention to occupy the office of Prime Minister. The Democratic Liberal Party will be running for Parliament, in every seat, with a full pack of candidates and a prepared cabinet. If we win a majority in the lower house, we will be ready to govern.”

The audience of faithful believers cheered. The media took their photos of Timothy, the prophecy of the newspapers turning out to be true.

“This dilapidated old theatre speaks volumes of the Militia Enforced State and the military aristocracy that has run it for so long. The aristocracy is old and creaky and have left the nation in a run down state. We can’t even find most of Dylaria! Lance Foster, this message is for you, its time for the old guard that made the mess to hand power over to a new generation with new ideas. The DLP fully supports the trials of Snyder and his tyrants that are about to commence in Farmina, and the renewal they represent. The era of the old guard is over, the old ways shall go to the noose with the tyrants who defended them.”

There was brief murmuring. “The Democratic Liberals have new ideas. The Democratic Liberal Party is the only party with a sound vision for the future.

When it comes to economy, it is the DLP with a plan for the future. The DLP will bring inflation under control. The DLP will ensure this nation meets its reparation commitments. The DLP has a plan to ensure the national power, transport and communication grids are of a standard to ensure a strong economy. The Democratic Liberals will ensure a surplus of jobs; while privatising the government dominated industry. In addition to actually creating a private sector, I also pledge that red tape will be slashed, so that private industry can thrive.

In foreign policy, it is again only the DLP that is looking to the future. The military aristocracy used a policy of strength as the pillar of its foreign policy. Such a policy may be fine for Farmina, but we are now weak and will remain so. The hardliners and old guard can block their ears and deny it, but it is true. The DLP will not dispute the territorial concessions made by the Force Commanders to Farmina and the Republic of Scirenia. DLP foreign policy is not one of strength but friendship. The Militia Enforced State needs Farmina’s friendship not her hostility. Likewise we need the friendship of the Republic of Scirenia. We need the friendship of the international community. From now on we must tread carefully. It is our nation that most prove something to the world and not visa-versa.”

Timothy deliberately avoided saying that he agreed with surrendering Trinity and Scirenia, for fear of offending people.

“When it comes to welfare and tax, the DLP is also the only party with a workable plan. I promise to streamline welfare and reform the tax system. I will ensure that the poor are clothed and feed. This is not enough; the war and the destruction of Dylaria has left millions displaced. The centerpiece of my welfare policy is that the government will put a roof over every head.”

The lights dimmed, “That is our vision for the future.”

“All rise for the full bench,” ordered the chubby warden.

The five judges that made up the full bench of the International Court of Freedom entered as the court rose. The stained glass windows were the only remaining clue on that the courtroom was in fact a hastily converted church, seized under government war powers. All across Farmina, important and irrelevant officials of the fallen directorate regime were being tried for a wide variety of serious and creative crimes. This however was the biggest trial of them all.

“All sit,” instructed the warden as the judges took their seats.

Chief Justice Warren Mitchells, an aging man and a known Tobias Grey supporter, surveyed the court and turned his attention to the dock, “Will the defendants please rise?”

The fallen directors, the defeated dictators of the MES, and their legal team stood up solemnly, protected by bullet proof glass in case of deranged lunatics (deranged lunatics other than the defendants) in the court room.

The Chief Justice looked down the charge sheet, as someone in the court giggled at his polished scalp, “Jason Snyder, you are charged with tyranny. How do you plea?”

“Guilty,” Jason replied.

There was a series of gasps through out the room.

“On the charge of the murder of Amy Ackvick, how do you plea?” asked Mitchells, peering at the fallen Messian dictator through his spectacles.

“I vehemently object, your honour!” Jason’s lawyer, the famous William Salzous bellowed.

“On what grounds?” enquired the Chief Justice.

“I object on the murder charge, due to the fact that the person in question is, in fact, alive,” Salzous replied.

The Chief Justice whispered something to the overweight warden as the other four judges began to mutter amongst themselves. The warden passed the Chief Justice a large document that he quickly scanned. He turned to Chief Prosecutor Leonard Arnan, “Is the defence correct?”

“Yes your worship,” said the Chief Prosecutor, “However Ms Amy Ackvick was dead, but she got better.”

“So I see,” said Mitchells, turning the page, “The bench reserves its judgment on whether Jason Snyder can be tried for the murder of a person who is in fact still alive.”

He handed the document back to the bailiff, “Jason Snyder, on the charge of aggression against a democracy, how do you plea?”

“Not guilty,” Jason replied.

“On the charge of the murder of Chris Kaider, how do you plea?” asked the Chief Justice.

“Objection!” Salzous bellowed.

“What this time?” asked Mitchells, a vein on his sagging forehead beginning to bulge.

“Your honour, it is known that the last time he was seen, he was in Farminan hands, alive and well!” the defence barrister replied.

The Chief Justice leant over to the warden, who looked puzzled. The other judges began to argue loudly. “Mr Arnan can you confirm this?”

“I have no evidence of this,” said the Chief Prosecutor.

“The charge stands,” said the Chief Justice, “Unless the defense can provide concrete evidence Kaider is still alive. Jason Snyder, how do you plea?”

Jason looked at the judge with disbelieving eyes, “Not guilty!”

The next charge against Snyder was read, “On the charge of deploying weapons of mass destruction, by means of space based energy weapons, against a free people, how do you plea?”

Jason looked at his lawyer, then turned toward the judge, “Not guilty, on the grounds of insanity.”

There was more gasping in the court room, not that anyone actually believed he was completely sane. The public were gasping it because...well everyone else was doing it.

“Silence in the court,” demanded the Chief Justice, banging his gavel, “On the charge of willful destruction, by means of bombing the headquarters of the Force Commander regime, resulting in the deaths of three Force Commanders, how do you plea?”

“Not guilty,” Jason replied, with a sigh.

“That is all Mister Snyder,” said the Chief Justice, “Nicolas Austin, you are charged with tyranny.”

The next three Directors (Austin, Ardelle and Gunn) were only charge with tyranny and all three assertively declared they were not guilty, not that anyone believed them.

After Gunn entered his plea, the Chief Justice turned, “Dylan Aguilar, on the charge of tyranny how do you plead?”

Aguilar had been caught when he led an ambitious attack on Verica that successfully rescued Snyder from Tobias Grey’s clutches. The attack left Verica in ruins, one hundred thousand civilians dead. When Aguilar was brought before Tobias Grey, the first Director captured, spat at the President’s feet. Within forty eight hours and a million deaths in renewed fighting, Snyder was recaptured.

“This is a farce! You’re all religious psychos, the whole lot of you!” the man ranted.

Mitchells looked at the head of the defence team, “Have you been instructed to enter a plea on his behalf?”

“Not guilty, your honour,” Salzous replied.

“On the charge of aiding in the extraction of a tyrant, Jason Snyder, from the court’s custody, how do you plea?” asked the Chief Justice, looking at the lawyer, rather than the defendant.

“Guilty, your honour,” Salzous replied.

Suddenly, the man referred to as Dylan swung at the closest member of his legal team, hitting him in the back of the head. He fell over as the court guards approached hastily.

“Remove Mr Aguilar from the court room,” instructed the chief security warden, “Medic for Mr Stevens.”

The guards took out their tasers and stormed towards the Dylan Aguilar; bringing the prisoner crashing down.

“In his absence,” said the Chief Justice, “The court will plea on behalf of Mister Aguilar.”

The panel of judges chattered for about five minutes, before they fell silent, allowing the Chief Justice to speak for them, “Dylan Aguilar pleads guilty on all charges.”

There was more gasping from the Farminan dominated audience. Everyone expected Aguilar to be sent to the noose. No one in Farmina would shed a tear; just as no one shed a tear when a large metal beam flew into Reagan Hamilton (Snyder’s deputy) leaving the brute in pieces.

“Wallace Stirling,” said the Chief Justice, “On the charge of tyranny, how do you plead?”

“Guilty, your honour,” the man replied, with a great deal of dignity.

Warren Mitchells noted the last plea, “This court will recess until Monday at 11. The court reserves all sentences. Court is adjourned.”

“All rise!”

OOC: Warning, long post. The last section is the briefest and the most important.

The full bench took their seats.

“All sit,” said the warden.

Chief Justice Mitchells looked across the room, “The bench has reached a decision on the murder of Amy Ackvick. We have decided that Jason Snyder cannot face these charges; as Amy Ackvick’s legal status was more akin to unconscious than dead.”

After a pause to allow the court to process the information, Mitchells said, “Those aware of this court’s processes, there are no opening statements. The prosecution can call its first witness.”

Leonard Arnan, the chief prosecutor rose, “I call Jason Snyder to the stand.”

A wave of murmuring passed through the court, followed by heavy gavel banging. Security guards prepared to escort the prime defendant to the witness box.

Jason looked towards the guards, and calmly got up, and walked across the room in a very formal manner, then taking a seat at the witness stand.

One of the court wardens was ready at the witness box, “Put your right hand on the Bible and repeat after me: I swear to the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God. Amen.”

Jason did what the man asked; he put his hand on the Bible, and said the words, “I swear to the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God. Amen.”

The Chief Prosecutor walked away from the Prosecution Bench, towards the Witness Box, “You pleaded guilty to tyranny, correct?”

“That is correct,” Jason replied.

“Were you or were you not the head of a tyrannical regime in the Militia Enforced State?” asked Arnan.

“Define tyrannical,” Jason responded.

“Surely you must accept the regime you led was tyrannical if you pleaded guilty by tyranny?” said Arnan.
Jason looked as formal as when he first approached his seat, “I was the head of government, correct.”

“A tyrannical government?” said the Chief Prosecutor.

“That will have to be determined by these court proceedings, correct?” Jason retorted.

“And these questions are part of that court proceeding. You pleaded guilty to tyranny as head of the Messian Directorate regime. Then surely it must follow that the regime itself was tyrannical?” said the Chief Prosecutor.

Jason smiled, “There were tyrannical elements in the government, but to call the entire regime tyrannical would be unfair branding, correct?”

Arnan paused for a moment, and then chose a different tactic, "Were the other defendants in the dock, participants in the Director regime?"

Snyder’s smile disappeared into a smug look. “That is correct,” Jason replied, “However, if you mean a part of the tyranny, not all of them were involved, no.”

“Then which ones were not tyrannical?” said Arnan, smirking just a little, “And how were they ruling in a way that wasn’t tyranical?”

Snyder’s look didn’t change, “That is why they are in court, to determine whether or not they were tyrannical or not.”

“Answer the question,” warned the Chief Justice.

“Reagan Hamilton was my right hand man, and is as guilty as I,” Jason replied, “And so is Dylan Aguilar.”

“And all the rest are innocent?” asked Arnan, still smirking.

“To answer this question would be criminal on its own right,” Jason replied, keeping his composure. “We’re in court, let the courts decide. To answer your question under oath would prevent them from getting a fair trial.”

“You were happy enough to accuse Reagan Hamilton when he cannot defend himself,” noted Arnan, “Now please point out anyone in the dock; who ruled in your regime in a way that did not exercise tyrannical powers?”

Jason looked towards the Chief Justice, with a serious look, “I intend no offense or making you look bad to the court, but would that be a conflict of interest, as President Grey had affairs in my arrest, and the invasion of the Militia Enforced State? Considering he hand picked you to try me I mean.”

“If you do not answer the question, this court has radical powers to force you to answer,” warned the Chief Justice, getting incredibly annoyed with the defendant, “Please point out those who behaved in a non-tyrannical manner in your government.”


Jason gulped, then looked back at the Directors with a look of regret. Three of them nodded towards him. “Tia Norris.”

“Thank you,” said the Chief Prosecutor, giving a nasty grin at the defendants who’d just had their cases ruined.

“You admit ordering the attack on Verica?” asked the Chief Prosecutor.

Jason shook his head. “Under extreme duress...and I mean extreme. I pleaded insanity. Your nation was killing my people, ruining everything. I felt I had a gun to my head, and in an uncontrollable rage, I...did.”

“You blew up central Verica in the middle of diplomatic negotiations between Farmina and MES, which were protected by a ceasefire?” asked the Chief Prosecutor.

“You had to be there,” Jason replied, “They were going to give our country away to your nation. Grey had terrible plans for us, and as you can see by the aftermath, you know how bad our nation is of by now. I...wanted to cut the head off of the venomous snake that leads your government, in a fit of rage.”

“So it was rage that made you do it?” asked Arnan.

“Rage, insanity, put it any way you like in regards to losing it,” Jason replied.

“We must be precise,” said Arnan, "Did you act enraged, with passion?”

“Yes,” sighed Snyder.

“But you were aware of what you were doing,” said Arnan, “You were completely in control of your faculties, correct?”

“I don’t remember...” Snyder replied, “I was blinded by anger...the whole thing, overwhelmed me. Everything went wrong.”

“Objection!” Jason’s attorney yelled.

“Approach,” said Justice Mitchells.

The attorney got up and walked up to the bench in front of the Justice.

“Explain,” said Mitchells, when both sides were in front of him.

The defense looked at them rather tensely, “Jason Snyder is being interrogated for his own crimes as a witness, not as a defendant. The prosecution cannot ask him these types of questions!”

“The defence council has a point,” said Mitchells.

“This is an extraordinary trial and requires special measures,” responded the Chief Prosector.

“All people, regardless of their alleged crimes, deserve a fair trial. Even you,” the defense retorted.

“The defendant has the right to refuse to answer questions that might incriminate himself,” said the judge, “But the prosecutor has the right to ask. The court is also free to extrapolate from a refusal to answer. The questioning will continue.”

“Thank you, your honour,” the Defense replied, as he went back to his seat.

Arnan continued on the issue of the destruction of Verica, “Were you Mister Snyder, that by ordering the attack you were going to kill thousands of civilians?”

Jason shook his head, “I refuse to answer this question until I speak to council, and I am brought to the stand as a defendant, not a witness.”

“Did you realise you were ordering an attack on Verica?” asked Arnan.

“Again, I refuse to answer for the previously stated reasons,” Jason replied.

“Were you trying to order pizza and accidentally hit the wrong button?” asked Arnan, mockingly.

The court burst into laughter, causing more gaveling.

“No, if it was that unsafe, then your grandmother could have accidentally blown your in-law's house to high heaven,” Jason replied with a smile.

“So a degree of rationality is required to use the weapon. Prior to the Verica conference, did you reach the decision to attack Verica?” asked Arnan.

“No,” Snyder replied.

“When did you reach the decision?” asked Arnan.

“Next question,” Jason replied.

“We’ll move on,” sighed Arnan, “When did you last see Christopher Kaider?”

“Last time I saw him, was on the EDFV Final Victory. He was beaten by some of the Tyrants, however, last time I saw him, he was alive by the time the Force Commanders were there. I had Rickhart there as well to confirm this.”

The public gallery gasped all over again. “Did you order anyone to dispose of Mister Kaider?” asked Arnan.

“Remove from the Directorate, yes,” Snyder replied, “But to be killed, no. I almost forgot to add that on the Final Victory's video log, it should have all the evidence you need to know where Kaider went. I kept track on that ship long after I left, and I saw him a number of times, being interrogated by the Force Commanders.”

“Thank you that is all,” said Arnan.

Arnan sat down and gave the defence the floor.

The attorney approached Jason dutifully, and walked up to him. “Did you knowingly attempt to hurt civilians in your alleged tyranny?” the man said.

“No, I did not,” Jason replied.

“Objection, relevance?” declared Arnan.

“Your honour, this is the exact line of questioning that the prosecution asked Jason Snyder. To not allow it would be hypocritical.”

Arnan shook his head. “Sustained,” said Mitchells.

“Do you think the Directors in the dock cared about those under them?” he asked.

“Yes,” Jason replied.

“About Chris Kaider, you say that Rickhart was witness to his handover to the Force Commanders. Did he work for the Tyranical regime?”

“He was a double agent, actually,” Jason replied. “He worked for me, but I doubted his loyalty. He seemed to have his own agenda, playing anyone he worked for. However, at the time, his allegence was to myself, yes.”

The defense walked back to his bench. “Let me introduce defense Exhibit A, a tape with relevant footage of Kaider’s whereabouts on the Final Victory, Rickhart with what I described to be an eccentric and homicidal old woman, the Force Commanders, and what happened during the time between our departure and the ship’s internment by Farminan authorities.”

“Is this the footage where Kaider dies under interrogation?” asked Leonard Arnan, standing up.

“According to this tape, yes,” the defense said. “He was badly beaten, put into a bodybag, and thrown overboard.”

Arnan nodded and sat down. “The court accepts Exhibit D-A-1,” said Chief Justice Mitchells.

“And as Rickhart was not working with the Directorate at that point, I even suggest that Rickhart is guilty of murder,” the man said.

“Objection, speculation!” responded one of the prosecutors.

At that point, the defense turned to the judge. “No further quest...” he started to say before Jason stopped him with a quick interruptive ‘William’. He turned back, and listened. He then turned back to the judge. “No further questions. However, your honour, my client wishes to discuss a partial deal with the court with reasonable terms considering his crimes.”

“The prosecution will hear the defendant,” said Arnan.

The defendant turned to the Judge. “If Jason is ever convicted and sentenced to death, he requests to be put to death painlessly. In addition, he requests that he be allowed to have this entire court proceedings for the duration to be videotaped for the international media; he wishes that people can make their own judgment, and for transparency.”

“The introduction of cameras is a political decision," noted Chief Justice.

"We will offer Snyder a hanging in a negotiated location, if he will plead guilty unconditionally to all charges,” said Arnan.

“Jason is willing to identify key members of his government he claims to be guilty of crimes against humanity, as well as corrupted elements of your own government, including affiliates inside your own government, in exchange for this comparatively light exchange. He just wishes to go painlessly, if he is convicted.”

The defense looked toward the judge.

“The prosecution believes the hanging will be painless,” said Arnan, “But it requires a full guilty plea. We will also ensure the defendant gets full privileges before execution.”

“So you would rather see family killers and corrupted elements of your own governments walk free for a guilty plea, which in some ways may not even be necessary?” the defense replied.

“It’s two simple requests, in exchange for full disclosure,.”

“If Snyder is not willing to take responsibility for the crimes he has had yet to plead guilty for,” said Arnan, “Then we will have him guilty via the courts.”

“But he isn’t guilty of them!” Salzous replied forcibly, “Exhibit D-1-A is proof of that!”

“On the contrary,” said Arnan, “D-1-A is proof of the opposite, that Snyder ordered Kaider’s murder. We can prove that Snyder launched a war of aggression and we can prove he was in control of his faculties when he destroyed Verica.”

Jason called out for his attorney again. He listened, then looked back. “He’s willing to indulge if you just bring in transparency, your honour,” Salzous replied in a deep tone of frustration.

“We require Snyder to enter his new plea now,” said Arnan.

“No deal,” the defense replied. “Which is really too bad, because there are people from the old regime that are guilty of a lot more than Jason ever was. No further questions.”

One of the prosecutors stood up, “Mister Snyder, you ordered the invasion of Farmina after the Reaction Corp incident, didn’t you?”

“I did in response to the attack. I even displayed video on the news of the attack and declaration of war as a response to an unprovoked attack that cost the lives of hundreds of sailors!” Jason replied harshly. “Any nation would do that! Yours did that, turned into tit for tat, and this is where we ended up. If you had some sort of lunatic fringe group with outdated ships and affiliated with a nation, wouldn’t you go for the source as well?!”

“Jason...” Salzous stammered.

“I present the court with a recording of a transmission between Snyder and Reaction Corp, Exhibit P-A-1,” said the prosecutor, “Threatening a Farminan corporation with attack. Fighting only breaks out only afterwards.”

“Play the tape,” said Mitchells.

After Snyder’s prerecorded bile was finished; Arnan stood up, “Perhaps Mister Snyder would like to consult with his defence consul on whether or not to change his plea?”

Jason whispered to his defense attorney. The attorney looked grim. “I hoped we wouldn’t have to got this far.” He walked back to his bench, and took an audio recording from his evidence. “May I present defense Exhibit B, a recorded conversation between Jason Snyder and former president James Palmer.”

“Will this evidence be politically sensitive?” asked Justice Mitchells.

“Bombshell material,” Salzous replied.

“Then the bench had better here it first,” said Mitchells, “Court will adjourn until tomorrow. Will consul join me in my chamber.”

By chambers he was referring to the priest’s house that was attached to the back of the former church.

“All rise!”

***

The judges took their seats, as did were prosecution lawyers.

As Salzous walked out, Jason called him out. “Make a copy, just in case,” Jason replied.

“Already done. I know how sensitive this piece is,” Salzous replied.

“Play the tape please,” said Mitchells, “Remember, what we hear is confidential.”

Salzous looked a little stressed at the request. “This is in some ways incriminating of my client. However, he has felt that this needs to be played, for the benefit of all, as well as being relevant to Reaction Corporation.”

“If your client was interest in the good of all, he wouldn't have made a big chunk of Verica disappear,” said one of the younger prosecutors, getting a general nodding.

The tape began. The distinct voice of James Palmer could be heard, “Merely that it is my time to the pick the fruit I please. Like that pleasent young servant who was in here earlier. Tell me Snyder; do you desire power, do you desire my power?”

“Get to the point Palmer. What is it that you wish to know about me, or want of me?” Jason replied, without missing a beat.

“Who the bloody hell are you?”

“Well...” Jason said in a very calm, almost threatening tone. He could be heard taking a drink, and putting the cup down. “I see that you are wanting something from me, something to do with power. Something to bring absolute power.” There was a pause. “I have inspirations, yes. Now, the question is, what are you aiming for?”

“Perhaps.”

“Being here means you cannot sit in that chair,” the sound of a blade being cleaned being heard from the playing recording.

“Get to the point, Palmer. What do you scheme?”

“The wrong man sits in Ackvick’s chair, we can both see that.”

“That man, is incompetent. If I was leading the nation, this situation would have been handled long ago,” Jason blurted.

“Handled...You wouldn’t have got involved in the first place. And the cost; my goodness the cost.”

“Very true. Now, what did you want from me?”

“Here, you can do Ackvick no harm. Perhaps even he realises that. But here you are safe. Here I protect you; here he cannot reach.”

“That man, has more power than you could possibly imagine. Between him and the six of us, we have the power to change nations. But the seven person system is flawed. We need one ruler, not six.”

Salzous paused the tape. “We’re getting to the juicy part. But this is basically showing that James Palmer is in league with the Directorate.”

”No need to brash...Exile. I would first like to test your resources, then you shall sit in Ackvick’s chair.”

"Exile? Explain."

“You are here as an exile, a stranger in a dangerous land, far from your power base. Clearly there is a power imbalance between us; and you need to prove your worth exile. The test is simple," said Palmer, “my Ackvick must die, painfully.”

“I thought we agreed Amy Ackvick wasn’t dead, ala no crime,” observed Mitchells.

Salzous paused the recording. “We’ve already established that she’s still alive. You can charge him with conspiracy to commit, but as we’ve already started trial, it’s rather late to add that to the list of crimes for my client. I never said he was an angel, but a lot of these crimes he didn’t commit. And no, he didn’t pay me to sing praise.”

“We haven't charged Snyder with attempted murder,” said Arnan, “So a conspiracy charge will be troublesome.”

Salzous pressed play.

”Considering the security, that would be even harder to plan. But I have sympathizers all set to do this. I’ not the only one in this. I even have an army under my command.”

"I don't expect you to do it personally. But this is a blow to bring down a house of cards. The perfect strike with Dasch mad, Donald dead and you ready to mend the damage. Then we build the new house.”

“We shall see," Jason replied. "Is there anything else?"

The sound of a gun slowly unholstering could be heard. Like I said, I am more powerful than you could ever imagine. Cross me, or double-cross me, and you will die.”
“I get the idea subtly isn’t your strong point,” observed Palmer.

Jason chuckled. “Don’t get in my way. I can kill you as easily as it was for me to get this specially modified K16 for this meeting. It wouldn't be hard to get you eliminated. Remember that, and you will live. Now that you know, you must commit to this, or you will die."

“Succeed in this blow; and keep the truth hidden,” said Palmer, “Then I shall give you what you need.”

The sound of a door opening could be heard. “Very well. And to answer your question, I am the man who will bring stability to this planet, once and for all.” Jason’s footsteps could be heard, as Palmer’s more distant voice came out. “Goodbye Commander Snyder,” said Palmer.

Salzous pressed stop. “Succeed in the blow, and Palmer will give what he needed. If Jason failed his end of the bargain, and Palmer ‘retaliated’, then that could explain a lot of things.”

“I’ll consider this," said Mitchells, “I’ll give my decision tomorrow. I think you should also consider carefully, Mr Salzous. This evidence will probably do you more harm than good.”

“Jason knows this,” Salzous replied. “He wants to make good on things he now regrets. He wants to give out everything he knows, in exchange for the two leniencies. This is one example of exactly what he has. If he ends up doing more harm than good, he feels he’s repenting to the world.”

“The prosecution wants his guilty pleas,” observed Arnan, “We will force them out of him.”

“The things he declares himself to be not guilty in, he truly believes himself to be not guilty for. If you want to bring charges against him that you have complete, non-speculative proof of him doing so, then by all means and chances are he’ll plead guilty,” Salzous said, “The Rickhart-Kaider thing is a great example.”

“Then I will see you tomorrow Mister Salzous,” said Arnan, “And I will blow your case out of the water.”

Salzous shook his head, and packed his evidence.

***

Ricco Penitentiary was barely a pretty place. Jason Snyder’s solitary confinement didn't improve things. Part of the reason for Snyder’s solitary confinement was to protect him. The other part was to deprive him of social contact, or considering prisons, sexual contact.

“Snyder,” bellowed through the door, “You’ve got a visitor.”

Jason looked toward the door. “Visitor? I can only think of three people that would want to see me, and can actually make it into here. Palmer, Rickhart and Grey, and I have a sneaking suspicion it’s the former.”

“Its your lawyer you daft sod,” said guard, “Why in blazes would a politician risk their reputation seeing you?”

Jason felt his face start to blush heavily. “Oh...you’re right. Silly me. Let him in.”

The guard opened the door. The young man who entered was Snyder’s lawyer although wasn't the famous Salzous, “Close the door, this is confidential.”

The lawyer was a young, fit smart Verica based lawyer, whose entire law firm had been wiped off the face of the earth. “Salzous has played me the tape,” said Ryan Poland.

“Salzous?” Jason said quietly in surprise.

“I had to ask him,” continued Poland taking a seat in the cell, clearly one of those people who had everything: success, looks, youth, health.

“I first heard about it from Palmer,” said Poland in a low growl, “One of the prosecution lawyers leaked to Palmer.”

“Not surprising,” Jason replied. “I have someone ready to forward everything I have to Tobias Grey if it gets intercepted. I’m not taking any chances.”

“Palmer is one of my best clients,” warned Poland, “And he has a message for you. Back off.”

“And what is he going to do? Kill me? I’m as good as dead, and I deserve it too,” Jason replied calmly.

“What is he going to do?” said Poland, “He is going to destroy everything and everyone you love. His career is ruined if that tape goes public, and will have nothing to lose.”

Poland reached into his pocket and removed several recent photo’s of Snyder’s ex-wife, “She would go to pieces if she found out the truth about what is on that tape.”

“I have no one left, I have nothing to lose,” Jason replied solemnly. “If you kill her, it’s your own murder, not mine. She’s dead to me, and what’s one more death to add to my legacy?”

“But do you still care for her,” asked Ryan, “And do you notice the small bump? She’s with child.”

Jason’s look went from solemn to furious. “God damn you Julie! How dare you have someone after me?!”

“It could be artificial insemination,” said Ryan, “Perhaps it is your legacy. Privacy laws got in our way.”

“Keep trying, he would have to kill billions to stop me from doing what is right, not what is comfortable. I failed at life, and I must pay for my sins. As for Palmer...he failed me when he had the chance, and turned his back against me. He shall go down with me!” Jason stated angrily.

“And your wife will pay with you,” observed Poland, “Perhaps your family home will go up in flames. Or what about these two?”

Poland passed Snyder a photo of two people kissing in the back of the DLP election campaign launch. “Mister Reis and Ms Norris. Although Timothy has changed names again; we can still find him.”

Jason shook his head, “Reis is Palmer’s fuckbuddy; I doubt he’d kill him. Ms Norris, she’s as guilty as the rest of us. Consider it our execution.”

“James Palmer is deadly serious,” said Poland, “I’ve been told to offer you anything you want for your silence. Timothy will be mince meat if you decline.”

Jason smiled. “That’s more like it. Anything? You say anything?”

“Within reason,” adjusted Poland.

“Well, it better be good, cause otherwise I’m taking him down with me, and whoever else has to be silenced to get rid of the monster,” Jason replied.

“What is it you want?” asked Poland, not wanting to beat around the bush.

“I want the entire directorate freed, our nation reunited, the Farminans out, and Grey out of power...permanently,” Jason said “Oh, and our navy returned if that’s not too much to ask.”

“If Palmer could get Grey out of power he would, but he can’t,” said Poland, “Try again?”

“He can’t? And why not? Apparently he can take anyone else out,” Jason replied.

“Your freedom for you silence,” said Poland, “That’s the best you’re going to get.”

“I’ll think about it,” Jason replied.

“You have six hours,” said Poland, “Then people start dying.”

“Then let me send Palmer this message,” Jason said. He then violently punched the man once in the head, knocking him out cold.

“Guard!” Jason said. “This lawyer is feeling ill.”

“I’m heading off,” yawned William Salzous, standing up at his desk, “I have court tomorrow, so I can’t work on these all night.”

The world outside the Ricco law firm was black, the city lights shining like stars against the night. A low wind whistled outside, but inside it could not be heard.

“If the Attorney General rings about this again?” asked Liz Shaw.

“Tell him I’m still drafting the amendment. These things take time,” said Salzous, putting on his coat, “I’m sure they have other lawyers working on alternate legislation; so they won’t get to upset about dear old me being a slow coach.”

Liz handed her boss his briefcase, “The President is not renowned for his patience; you may not have much time.”

The prominent lawyer began to walk out of his office when he noticed a large package sitting on his secretary’s desk.

“It arrived when you were meeting the man from the Trinity Provincial Government,” said Liz, “With your work for the government and Mister Snyder, I decided it best not to bother you.”

Salzous ran a hand through his gelled brown hair, “Might as well open it.”

***

THE FARMINA DAILY
SCORES DEAD IN HORROR BLAST

Late last night, a massive explosion ripped through the Salzous & Salzous, law firm in Ricco (pictured). At least twenty are dead, including William Salzous part owner of the law firm. His younger brother, Toby Salzous has severe burns.

The explosion occurred around 11 o’clock and is believed to have originated in William Salzous’ office, which was completely destroyed. Foul play is the most likely cause of the explosion and the terror alert has been raised by the government.

William Salzous and his firm have been taking part in the high profile Director trials, a groundbreaking test for the validity of the International Court of Freedom. Mr Salzous was also preparing legislation to initiate a constitutional amendment for the Office of the Attorney General, at the request of President Tobias Grey. It is believed the amendment relates to the status of Trinity. The government is yet to make any comment and is awaiting a report on the cause of the blast.

Also killed was…

Jason Snyder sat in his cell passing time. He noticed that he hadn’t heard from his lawyer for a long while. Eventually, he felt he needed to ask. He got up, and looked through the small sliding hatch. “Guard!”

One of the guards patrolling the solitary confinement paused out the front of Snyder's cell, “What?!”

“I wish to speak to my lawyer Salzous,” Jason said.

“Its too early to go bothering him, plus you’ll see him in court,” said the guard, pausing for a moment, before adding, “Did you say Salzous?”

“Yes,” Jason replied.

“Salzous is dead,” said the guard, his deep voice treating the door like no object.

“D...dead?!” Jason stammered.

The sound of the breakfast trolley could be heard in the distance, heading along solitary towards Snyder. “The permanent sort of dead,” said the guard, “Not the Amy Ackvick kind.”

Jason took a few steps back. “Can I please have a phone call? It’s crucially important.”

“Not right now,” said the guard, as breakfast was slipped under Snyder’s door, along with a newspaper and a note, “I suppose you'll be needing a new legal team.”

“As soon as possible. Trust me, it’s important, and my legal team is the least of our worries,” he replied, as he took the food and note.

The note read ‘Stop while your behind’. Breakfast seemed to have been spat in...again. “No can do,” said the guard, as the breakfast trolley clattered away, “Now enjoy your gruel, cause there ain’t going to be no more till lunch.”

Jason sighed, and pushed the tray aside. He sighed. “Bastard,” he said, under his breath.

The lunch trolley could be heard clattering deep in the distance. “Visitor for Jason Snyder,” bellowed the warden, “Mister Arnan for the prosecution.”

“Let him in,” Jason replied.

The cell door opened. “Mister Snyder,” said the aging prosecutor, “I’m looking for a deal.”

“Take a seat,” Jason replied.

Arnan sat down on Snyder’s bed, “The government wants this matter resolved neatly and efficiently. I have the evidence to get you convicted for Kaider’s death and warmongering. Your state of mind in attacking Verica could go either way 50-50. However this explosion has put a spanner in the works.”

Jason shook his head. “I swear that I didn’t kill Kaider,” Jason replied. “However...”

“I’ll drop the Kaider charge if you plead guilty to the other two; admit that you were in control during the Verica attack,” said the prosecutor.

“Aman, there is something we need to discuss,” Jason replied. “It is more important than this trial, and justice.”

“Is this about the tape?” asked Arnan.

“Yes. I know who decided to blast my legal team to pieces,” Jason replied, “And it’s essential that I speak to President Grey by any means necessary.”

“I didn’t lie when I said about making that deal. I’m willing to bear my soul,” Jason replied. “I made an ally a long time ago, and since my arrest, I feel that this ally is too dangerous to be out in the open. And since I had that recording played, this person threatened retaliation through his personal lawyer, then threatened to hack friends of mine to pieces. And obviously, this bomb was the first step.”

“Can you prove it?” repeated Arnan.

“The conversation, obviously not,” Jason replied calmly, “But as for everything else, yes, but I need to speak to my associate who has been following this closely. He has everything that you need to convict hundreds of tyranny, and to expose corrupt elements in both our governments, including the person who wants to extract revenge on me.”

Jason paused. “Actually, hold on.” He reached over the bed, and grabbed photos that he received earlier, of his ex-wife. “He gave me these as a threat. She is my ex-wife.”

Leonard Arnan took the photos, “What do we need to do to get the evidence.”

“A secured phone call. As well, I wish to speak to Tobias about this...this is going to shake his democracy harder than anything before it,” Jason replied firmly. “This man I speak of needs to be stopped before he kills her, kills other people I know, and keep killing to hide the truth.”

“I can’t get you that,” said Arnan, “Your calls will need to go through the prison.”

“At least Tobias Grey,” Jason countered. “He can arrange for the secure phone line, and also hear my side of this conspiracy.”

"I’ll deliver a letter by hand to Tobias Grey,” said Arnan, removing a pad from his jacket, “I’ll need you to sign first, so we can push foward with the case.”

He signed the papers after thoroughly reading the fine print. Arnan passed the letter to a guard and whispered something, “Now write you letter quickly. Since we’ve summoned the court, we don’t want to be late.”

Jason quickly wrote the letter. “If I can, I’d like to use a phone in the court building as well as a form of communication. It’s a lot more secure than here, and I have assurances.”

“I can’t do that,” said Arnan, “The guards will have a secure vehicle waiting for you; see you in court.”

“But...” Jason pleaded as the prosecutor got up and left. I hope he wasn’t lying, he thought to himself.

Chief Justice Mitchells looked down at Snyder, “The prosecution has withdrawn the charge relating to Christopher Kaider and I am told you wish to change your plea.”

He handed the document back to the bailiff, “Jason Snyder, on the charge of aggression against a democracy, how do you plea?”

“Jason Snyder, on the charge of aggression against a democracy, how do you plea?”

Jason looked back, “Guilty your honour.”

“On the charge of deploying weapons of mass destruction, by means of space based energy weapons, against a free people, how do you plea?”

“Guilty your honour.”

Mitchells put down the revised charge sheet, “Are both sides happy to begin sentencing?”

Arnan nodded, “The prosecution is happy your honour.”

“Your honour, can sentencing wait?” Jason asked. “I have important information that must be given to the authorities before I am sentenced to death.”

“We won’t carry in out immediately,” said Mitchells, “But you may have a day to consult with your legal team.”

“Your honour, what legal team?” Jason asked in irony.

“You can organise a new one,” said Mitchells, “Otherwise this court sees no need for further delay.”

“Thank you, your honour,” Jason replied.

“Very well,” said Mitchells, “Court will for a week.”

OOC: Yes I realise this is moving VERY slowly.

Chief Justice Mitchells and the full bench took their seats.

"All sit," called the court wardens.

A small rumble echoed in the court room as everyone took their seats, then several minutes silence.

Mitchells’ picked up the sheet in front of him, "Will the defendants please rise?"

Snyder looked toward the judge, and stood up slowly. "I await your judgement willingly, your honour," he said calmly.
The other directors followed suit, although Dylan Aguliar was heavily bound.

"This court finds the defendants guilty on all charges," said Mitchells, banging his gavel heavily, just as the gallery began its instant murmuring, "The defendants may sit."

The directors took their seats in silence, not surprised, but certainly not happy either.

"Do the defendants or the prosecution have any final submissions before sentencing?" asked the Chief Justice.

Prosecutor Arnan stood up, "I wish to remind the court of the seriousness of tyranny in the law. It is a great dishonour on its victims and no punishment less than death by hanging is appropriate."

He then sat as emotionally as he rose.

The other directors looked emotional as Snyder stood up. "I made mistakes, Aman. I think the hanging would be appropriate."

"Thank you," said Mitchells, pausing for a few moments to chat with the other judges, "We have reached our decision; there seems to be little choice."

He turned his eyes to the bound and gagged Dylan Aguliar, "Dylan Aguliar, considering the gravity of the charges against you I'm forced to sentence you to death by hanging. Upon completion of the sentence you will be interned in and assessed by a mental health institution.”

"Directors Austin, Ardelle and Gunn. You were all minor members of a tyrannical government, but this does not excuse your participation. You were tyrants and took part in the depravation of the liberty of over a billion people, leading them to disaster. You also attempted to extend the tyrannical rule beyond your own boundaries. The seriousness means that I am forced to sentence you to death by hanging. I will however also extend you liberties with regard to the arrangements for the execution."

Warren Mitchells turned his eyes to Wallace Stirling, "Again, the seriousness of the charge is a matter I cannot overlook. You have however pleaded guilty, and seem to be aware not only that you have wronged, but how seriously you have wronged."

"Therefore I sentence you to death by firing squad, with full honours."

Wallace nodded with a weak smile. "As a soldier, I thank you, your honour,", he replied.

The Chief Justice turned to the final defendant, "Jason Snyder, although you plead guilty, there was never much doubt about your guilt. Your crimes are the most serious and the most numerous. All these crimes link back to your's. All that has happened, leads from your decisions. All the disaster that has befallen the Messian people and the Farminan people was at your hand. You engineered this course. You had every chance to change course. As the path to disaster became clearer, you simply became firmer in your resolve. Every disastrous choice lead to another. This is compounded by the fact that the evidence suggests you were completely in control of your faculties; you were rational and sane when you chose the way of tyranny and war. The blood of millions and livelihoods of billions are on your hands. Considering all the evidence, including your guilty plea, I sentence you to death by ceremony with no honours."

A gasp escaped the public gallery at the incredibly rare punishment, but was silenced by the gavel.

Snyder’s head dropped low. "I await the execution, your honour," Snyder replied.

With that six months of trials came to an end.

Messian Newscast Channel 3

"Good evening, Militia Enforced State, I am Jake Freeman, and beside me is Cassandra White, and this is the evening news."

"Today, the deadline for party submission for the upcoming democratic government, has passed, and today we report to you the parties that will be running candidates in the next election."

"We have the full list here. First, is the Loyalist Party, an old idea born anew. Although it follows very similar guidelines from the former government, its leader, Lance Foster, intends to keep the loyalists, and Militia Enforced State, as a democracy. He believes that his party can bring the country back to its former greatness, yet allow a whole new level of transparency to the public."

Ms White tapped her pen against the desk, "I think Lance Foster may be the first Prime Minister of MES. He is in my top two people to watch. His experience is his greatest strength; people know him and have seen that he is capable of running a nation. They aren't sure if thats true about the other candidates."

Jake nodded. "We will definitely have to watch. Next on the list is the new Liberal Party, run by Timothy Lucan, someone so unknown that Elections MES can't even seem to track down his full history. Charismatic, good looking, and brilliant, the Liberal Party plans on a more conservative approach with economy, moving toward a more capitalist system, from the old system of socialism. He, however, also wants to bring more rights to the people, has strong beliefs in peace, and also has mentioned about a softline foreign policy regarding Farmina and Scirenia. It is possible that the latter could be either a deal maker or breaker in this election."

"Timothy Lucan and his Democratic Liberal Party are in many ways similar to the Foster and the Loyalists," noted White, "But its also the way they say it. The big policy difference is the economy; both are going soft on Farmina in terms of foriegn policy. The policy difference on the economy seems to be a play by Lucan to distinguish himself from Foster. He is something new, versus something old. Foster will be portrayed as out of date, a man who belongs in the past, with the old regime."

Jake smiled. "Well noted. Next, we have the New Age Party, led by Gym Lancing. He is a fourty-five year old, with a big heart, and even bigger liberal values. In fact, he is so liberal that some of his most stunning ideas for government, is to work on social welfare over jobs and business, legalising almost everything including drugs and public nudity, disassembling the military and creating a new service strictly for emergency services, and forming a seclusionary foreign policy, cutting all ties with everyone around."

"Inspirational," said Cassandra, "Although verging on the slightly insane. Insanity is one thing the MES has had enough of I fear. Polling suggests that in times like this people look for a safe choice and I don't think people will see Lancing as a safe choice. This will hurt him badly I think and strengthen the hands of Foster and Lucan. For example; MES is currently trying to import building supplies for the reconstruction. Does Lancing suggest we wind down the reconstruction to bolster this seculsion policy? Even if he doesn't people will mentally attach trade costs to his policy."

Jake nodded. "Very true. At this point, getting outside help is what we need the most. Next on the list is the new, inspiring Independance Party, led by the highly intelligent Noll Irving. His main mandate, which overrides most other mandates, is to dismantle the Militia Enforced State, and reform all of the old states that existed before the great war, bringing everything back, to quote, 'the way things were when we were once great'. Although he does have other policies, his main intention is to reform this entire continent, and forming new governments in the new states. One other, very popular, policy he wants to act is to fully reject Farminan presence in this continent, and ejecting all Farminan people and personnel from the MES. This won't bode well with the Farminans, but they promised to do this 'peacefully'. They do, however, fully recognise Scirenia as a new state as a part of their plan for mass independance."

"I think there will be support for this party," said Cassandra, "Everyone assumed the MES was very cohesive, until Scirenia jumped at the chance to leave the Militia Enforced State. Other people around the nation will no doubt have gotten ideas. There will however be substantial hostilitities from nationalists, who would see a breakup weakening us further against Farmina."

"Independance will be a hot topic in this election, as well as soverignty, that is true," Jake replied. "And finally out of all the major parties with a large number of candidates, is the New State Party. Led by Nass Dryvar, he is a patriotic Messian who has similar ideals to the Loyalist Party. He believes in the socialist economy system, he believes in the rights of others, but also the security of the nation, he also believes in a soverign Militia Enforced State. He has stated that they will accept Scirenia as a seperate entity. However, they have had harsh words for Farmina, wanting to force the Farminans out of the nation by any means necessary."

"This candidate is third on my list of potential Prime Ministers," said Cassandra White, "After the Foster and Lucan. He will probably pick up most of the anti-Farmina vote and a good portion of the vote that is angry with the old guard. There will however be a perception that he is looking for a fight. There is already speculation that his recognition of Scirenia is a lie. People afraid of another war, especially people afraid of rushing into another war too quickly will be cautious about this candidate. I think Farmina will also be very cautious about him."

"Yeah...I wouldn't want another war," Jake replied. "However, he does promise many things. The question is on if he acts on them. But he does seem to have a lot of support even already."

"So what are your predictions Jake?" asked White.

"Well, between the five primaries, and the seven smaller parties which are unlikely to get a strong showing due to their lack of numbers, it's going to be a brutal race. All five parties have completely different ideals from one another. It will not necessarely go down to the politicians themselves, but what Messians believe in. And right now, there is a large amount of anger, both at the Force Commanders, and the Farminans. And then there are those who want to be in their own nation-state, and those who just want something new."

"I think your right about anger," said White, "But I think fears will also come out in this vote. I also predict that the big five will really be the big three, maybe four. Between them, two or possibly three parties, will form a government."

"We shall see," Jake replied. "In thirty minutes will be the leadership debate we have all been waiting for. There will be four debates before thie election, and this one was planned so early into the election season so that the parties have little time to plan for it."

"I hope you can join us for what is sure to be an enthralling policy discussion and a review of the election campaign to date," concluded White, "Despite the campaign officially starting today; some candidates have been making themselves known for months."

"We will be back after these messages," Jake finished.

“Tobias Grey,” answered the Farminan president, as he picked up the international phone line, while stubbing out his cigarette

“Good afternoon, mister President,” a rather upbeat sounding Lance Foster said on the phone.

“What can I do for the most probable candidate for Messian PM?” asked Tobias Grey, coughing lightly from the tobacco rich air of his office.

“I’m not calling about the election,” Foster replied bluntly, “I’m calling to renegotiate terms.”

“Terms are terms are terms,” said Tobias Grey, “We let you off lightly forty years ago. I will not repeat my predecessor's mistakes. Be grateful I left you so much.”

If Tobias Grey was honest, his predecessors were in no position to make demands like those in the Treaty of Trinity.

“Mister President,” Foster continued, “Keep in mind that you took possession of our entire navy, stolen some of our fighter designs, obliterated our second largest city, hacked off a part of our nation, taken our top tourist spot, and that over 90% of our forces joined yours to stop Snyder. If you can see, mister President, don't you see a major problem with this picture?”

“Not to mention that we’ve worked with your government for the past few years on a positive note, except for Snyder. And he’s gone, and so is his organization.”

“You signed that treaty,” said Tobias Grey, placing the emphasis on ‘you’, “Now you want to change it. We had co-operation from you; now we have insurance to ensure you maintain that co-operation. What would you do if you were me; not have taken the weapons? Let you rearm?”

“I’m not asking for rearmament, as per se,” Foster replied, “But the reparations, among other things, are severely restrictive on us. The country post-war has fallen into serious debt, we're bordering on a hyperinflationary economy, we still need to rebuild, the trade embargos are destroying us, and the trade sanctions with Farmina prevent us from importing badly needed building material. We signed it because otherwise, we would be fully occupied, with more blood on our hands.”

“The reparations stay,” said Tobias Grey, “However, I will halve the surcharge on reconstruction supplies from 10% to 5%.”

“Mister President,” Foster continued, “I will tell you this, and tell you this once. We’ve played nice for this long. We’ve as in the people, not my government. We barely got the population to agree on such harsh terms. But now the MES Intelligence Services, or rather, what's left of it, has reported that there is talk of a major paramilitary offensive, from within the MES, targeting Scirenia, and possibly worldwide. The only way I can see this being averted is to get badly needed positive treatment from your nation, mister President. And I have no control on this potential insurgency, with my military gutted, and police in disarray.”

“You better improve your police quickly then,” observed Tobias Grey, “Otherwise, YOU will have a severe problem to deal with.”

“If bombs goes off in your country, don’t blame me personally,” Foster warned, “I’m not involved in this mess, and your problem is my people, not the government.”

“Perhaps,” said Tobias Grey, “But perhaps not too. I will watch your response closely.”

He paused for a moment, “Farminan anti-terrorism measures are tight due to our experiences with Arandior. Be that a warning for those who will take it.”

“You are making a grave mistake by not properly heeding this warning,” Foster warned. “Good day.”

At that, the phone disconnected.

“Darn sight rude,” muttered Tobias Grey as the line went dead.

Tobias’ secretary walked through the door, “Lord Palmer to see you.”

“Send him in,” said Tobias Grey.

Tobias’ new secretary exited the door and James Palmer entered, “Lord President, you summoned me?”

“James,” said Tobias politely, but with a cruel undertone, “I have received a letter from Jason Snyder about certain activities of yours.”

“Ah,” said Palmer, with a hint of worry in his voice as Tobias placed an envelope on the desk, “You do not seem particularly angry if you don’t mind me saying.”

“The letter talks about a young man,” said Tobias, “Timothy Reis, one of the Directors and was apparently Snyder’s lover. Timothy Reis…if that is his name…is missing. I think I know where he is.”

“You do?” said Palmer, so innocently that Tobias Grey was expecting a small halo to pop up over the muscular opposition leader’s head.

“Lets not play coy. I know you are secretly investing a lot of money in the Messian election campaign. I know what you are up to in the MES,” said Tobias Grey, pushing Snyder’s letter towards Palmer, “And I want in.”