NationStates Jolt Archive

Throughout all of the Democratic Republic of Aglorea, people would wake up to the latest issues of the Aglorean Star, and on an international level, people would view the issues through electronic means.

The Aglorean Star
January 27th
ELECTION SEASON DRAWS TO A CLOSE
Yesterday saw the final push in the election season between President Chris Rescudo (Independent) and top challenger John Press (Aglorean Federalist Party). In the initial weeks of the election season, President Rescudo had led the race by an average of 35%, but each week brought loss after loss. The once popular President is now even in the polls with Press, who has been attacking the President on his choice to send military forces to United Gordonopia. A little over a week remains until election day, where the Democratic Republic will select its new leaders.


February 4th
ELECTION DAY RESULTS
As the polls closed yesterday at 11:00 PM, the fate of the Democratic Republic was settled. Counting of the polls has ended, and the results were released shortly afterword. The final results of the Presidential campaign are below:
John Press (Aglorean Federalist Party): 53%
Chris Rescudo (Independent): 46%

John Press is the President-elect and will officially begin serving on the 10th.

Results for the Congress are as follows:
The Aglorean Federalist Party claimed 73% of the seats.
The Aglorean Liberal Party claimed 15% of the seats.
The Aglorean Conservative Party claimed 12% of the seats.


February 15th
PRESIDENT PRESS SEIZES CONTROL

Five days after taking office, President John Press, with approval from the Federalist controlled Congress, declared himself dictator for life of the Democratic Republic of Aglorea. His first action as dictator was to ban elections for all public offices, and remove from power any officials who may speak out against his policies.


Residence of the Former-President
Former-President Chris Rescudo sat in his comfortable chair, reading the latest issue of the Aglorean Star. It was now nearly two weeks since Emperor Press had taken complete control over the nation and changed the name from the Democratic Republic to the Empire of Aglorea. For some time since the declaration he had openly spoken out against the Emperor, and quietly supported the small group that was preparing to go into open rebellion. The majority of the people would likely side with them if they could gain a few decisive victories, but until then Rescudo would remain quiet.

Imperial Palace
Emperor John Press of the Aglorean Empire stood looking out the massive bulletproof glass window that stood behind his desk. Several tips had been picked up by the Secret Police that suggested the palace would be attacked by rebellious radicals. He had won the election based on the promise that he would make the government more powerful to help fight crime and corruption, and he was doing just that. Funding to the armed forces had been doubled, the public police were brutally efficient, and most of his political opponents were in prison. The nation was peaceful.

Suddenly, a civilian car sped towards the gate of the Palace courtyard. As it approached, the guards moved to stop it, but were too slow. The car broke through the gate and exploded as it hit the wall of the palace, sending shrapnel and fire throughout the area. Armed guards began to rush towards the area to secure the palace as Press watched with amusement. Now he would have to ban civilian cars in the capital. All that remained to be seen was the international reaction to the recent events.

*Activating Scrambled Line*
*Scrambled Line Activated*

Prime Minister Gordon Smith was on the telephone. He was hoping to reach his deposed ally, former president Chris Rescudo of Aglorea who had recently been taken out of power partly because of his decision to help Smith's nation. He was calling Rescudo to attempt to find out about the situation in the country.
He listened to the ring, waiting for Rescudo to answer.

*OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE*

TO: Emperor John Press, Aglorean Empire
FROM: Sir Robert Donovan, Foreign Minister, Commonwealth of Tolvan

RE: Tyranny in Aglorea

Dear Sir,

I have been instructed to relay the dismay of HM King Samuel III and the Prime Minister of His Majesty's Government, Sir Tyler Hutchins, over your recent seizure of power in Aglorea. The Commonwealth sternly protests your suspension of elections and draconian crackdown on political dissidents. History has shown time and time again that such heavy handed authoritarianism only begats violence and resistance and brings chaos and bloodshed to those who employ such shallow and despicable methods of control. The true role of the government is to advance and protect the interests of the People, not to expand the power of a chosen few autocrats.

As a result of your unfortunate policies, the Tolvanic Parliament has voted to impose full diplomatic and economic sanctions upon Aglorea. All travel between Aglorea and any Crown Territory is hereby banned, all Aglorean citizens currently within on Tolvanic soil have thirty-six hours to leave or apply for asylum, those that refuse face arrest under the Immigration Control Act of 1962. In addition, the Commonwealth no longer recognizes the government of Aglorea as legitimate and Aglorea is hereby delcared ineligible for aid from the Commonwealth Development Bank.

Finally, the Commonwealth will explore its options in regards to lending support and comfort to pro-democracy elements within Aglorea.

Samantha Smith lay sprawled on the couch with her feet on the coffee table, wiggling her bare toes at the TV. What the hell? was her first reaction. Then she realized that she didn't really know anything about Aglorea, so she had no particular reason to be surprised.

She had hardly been home five minutes. Extracting General Castro-Stalina from the frozen wasteland of UlanPataar had been unusually easy but she felt she deserved a break anyway.

What had she done with George Baker's phone number? Better find it and call Mr. Waverly, she decided. And then pack the cargo pants.

*ENCRYPTED COMMUNIQUE*

TO: Emperor John Press, Aglorean Empire
FROM: Premier General Cyrano Jones, Democratic Republic of Comorostan

We here in Comorostan are familiar with the problems of a rebellious nation. We wholly support your efforts to deal with the threat. If you wish, we can send advisers to assist you in combating the forces of subversion.

Former-President Chris Rescudo answered the phone. The phone's had been bugged nationwide, and he happened to have one of the few devices that blocked those bugs. As far as the Emperor knew, Rescudo never used the phone.

"Ah, Prime Minister Gordon Smith," Rescudo said in a tone that showed he was glad to hear from an old ally. "How are things in your area? The conflict is over, I hope."

Imperial Palace
Emperor John Press looked through the files on the rebellion that was beginning to grow. He noted that they were a small, underfunded faction, and decided to order an additional 500 soldiers to crush any attack in the area around the palace.

Official Press Statement from the Office of the President

It is with a heavy heart that I must issue this statement. The nation of Aglorea, once a shining bastion of liberty and democracy, has fallen into the suffocating grip of tyranny. To those who still labor for freedom within the so-called 'Empire of Aglorea,' know this; the Armed Republic of Salzland sympathizes with your plight. Though this is your darkest hour, know that you do not stand alone.

We wish to call upon the nations of the world to join the Armed Republic of Salzland in immediately instituting a full arms embargo on the 'Empire of Aglorea,' along with as many additional political and economic sanctions as prove necessary to force the current "government" to resign before new, internationally-monitored elections are held. It is imperative that, first and foremost, we deprive this illegitimate government of the tools necessary to enforce its will over the people of Aglorea.

The Armed Republic also demands that any individuals being held on charges of a political nature immediately receive full and unfettered access to international aid agencies, as well as to the benefits of legal counsel. We will not stand by while human beings "disappear," after being dragged before sham trials and charged with the "crime" of exercising those God-given rights and liberties to which all humanity is equally entitled. It is the duty of the civilized world to stand against the spread of such darkness.

Should the 'Empire' of Aglorea continue to exert a destabilizing influence domesticly, the Armed Republic wishes to announce that all options for resolving this crisis remain on the table. Additionally, we wish to call upon our fellow nations committed to freedom, justice and global stability to follow us by not ruling out any possible methods of resolving this crisis with the return of a democratic government to Aglorea. Only the immediate resignation of the current 'Imperial' government and institution of a new, freely and fairly elected democratic government will satisfy us in this matter.

Thank you, and may God continue to watch over us in these dark days.

Signed,

William Phillips
President of the Armed Republic of Salzland

"It's going well Chris. The conflict ended recently when a special forces raid captured Ludendorf and the communist leaders. It was a pretty quick conflict.
Anyway, the real reason I am calling is to inquire about the situation in your nation. I've heard about the "empire" but I want to know what's really going on, and if there is some way we can help."

TELEGRAM
To: Premier General Cyrano Jones, Democratic Republic of Comorostan
From: Emperor John Press, Aglorean Empire

We would very much like any aid you can provide. If anything is needed in return, we will try our best to help you.


Imperial Palace
Emperor Press stood in front of his military advisors. He was growing frustrated with their apparent lack of ability to crush the rebel threat. Worse still, they were gaining some international support. "Put more effort from the Secret Police into finding these radicals," he muttered sternly. "And when you find them, torture them." He paused for a moment of thought. "And get former-Senator Phelps out of prison. Then execute him in public. Show these people the price for speaking against the Empire." With that he dismissed his advisors.

The next morning, fifteen armed guards escorted Senator Phelps, a critic of the Emperor, to the designated firing-squad position. He was set on his knees and, in front of a massive crowd, was shot and killed.

Sam leaned against the side of the phone booth and smiled at a little old lady in a straw hat and muumuu. She dialed Baker's number and waited while it rang.

It has long been a point of discussion as to how the Centrogüese commanders could get threw to the rebellion that was spurring against the despotism in Aglorea, and it had recently been decided that the ex-president would be the best choice. However, their words would have to be chosen very carefully, and the ex-president would have to give the first hint towards dissidence against the new government, but if he was the one link, then they would support him, although with a limit, Centrogüesi were known to be very withdrawing once the team they were backing started to lose, it was a kind of cold calculation.

Unlike most of the going-ons in la Democracia this decision was made by the high-class leaders, knowing that if they opened an election the secret would be let out of the bag, and that was something the nation couldn't and wouldn't afford. So the number was found after a bit of booking and it was decided that Coronel Miranda would do the first talking, and would speak as a corporate back, in fact if it went smoothly enough la Democracia's involvement in the internal conflict would be masked under the veil of a corporate giant that simply wanted reduced tariffs and more lax laws against business once the nation was rebuilt.

The Coronel called Chris Rescudo and as he answered the phone Miranda was quick to insert his first words, "Hello, is this Mr. Rescudo?" He waited for the response...

OOC: Will there be an IC response to my communique?

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF HIERPHIL

TO: Emperor John Press

When I first heard of the shift of power in your country, my reaction was cautious. Hierphil is a peaceful nation and does not wish to participate in combat, however we must mention our intentions. It is important for every government to respect its people because it is from the people that the leader receives power. As long as you respect the individual freedoms of every human person, Hierphil has no place to interfer in your government. However, if you plan to disregard the respect of basic human liberties, I urge you to change your views.

Kind regards
Remus York, Prime Minister

TELEGRAM
To: Premier General Cyrano Jones, Democratic Republic of Comorostan
From: Emperor John Press, Aglorean Empire

We would very much like any aid you can provide. If anything is needed in return, we will try our best to help you.



Two groups of Internal Security Force troopers will be landing at your capital airport shortly.

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/3015/sealbu7.png
United States of Aesterland-Craitejk

Official Statement of the Foreign Ministry

In recent days, we have seen the transformation of the Democratic Republic of Aglorea, a once vibrant, representative democracy, into an opressive, one-man dictatorship, all for the whims of one evil and sick-minded person. The United States of Aesterland-Craitejk whole-heartedly condemns this illegal and anti-democratic takeover, and also announces its full and unconditional support of the international effort spearheaded by the Armed Republic of Salzland and the Commonwealth of Tolvan in order to defeat this dictator and his odious regime.

TELEGRAM
To: Sir Robert Donovan, Foreign Minister, Commonwealth of Tolvan
From: Emperor John Press, Aglorean Empire

Foreign Minister, it is with great unhappiness that I must respond to you in this way. Any attempts to aid anti-government groups in the form of weapons, manpower, or funding will be prohibited from this point forward. Furthermore, if any attempt is made to send aid by sea, the vessels will be sunk when in Aglorean waters. If any attempt is made to send aid by air, the aircraft will be shot down immediately. If any attempt is made to send aid through neighboring land territories, those transporting the mentioned things will be killed and their vehicles acquired. Good day, Sir Robert.


Home of the Former-President
Chris Rescudo sat with the phone to his ear. He was still speaking to the Gordonopian Prime Minister. "Everything is fine, Gordon. The Emperor just had a former senator executed on live television, but nothing has gotten to far out of control." He paused. "I fear, though, that only open rebellion will be able to change things, soon. Hold on, I have a call on the other line." He pressed a button on his phone, and answered with a quick, "Hello?"

"Hello, is this Mr. Rescudo?" was the only response.

"Yes, this is. How can I help you?"


Aglorean Intellegence Agency Headquarters
Aglorean Intellegence Agent George Baker sat behind his desk. He had been left relatively alone in the whole government change-over, as the AIA only operated in international affairs, and only in domestic ones if someone on an international level was involved. His cell phone rang. The number looked familiar, but he couldn't quite place it. He answered with a simple, "Baker here."


Imperial Press Conference
Emperor John Press stood before a large crowd of people, behind a podium richly decorated with gold and the Seal of the Emperor. Beside him on each side stood a heavily armed guard, with several other guards stationed througout the room and building. He began to speak as every network in the country, and several internationally, showed the conference.

"Last night several foreign powers sent press releases around the world speaking out against my leadership. Yes, it is true that I have removed elections. It is also true that the people of our great Empire are living with much tighter regulations in their life. But even more importantly, it is true that I have brought a new era of peace to Aglorea. Former President Rescudo led us into a deadly war in Gordonopia. Tens of thousands of men died when he sent them there without proper cause. I still stand by my promise to never send Aglorean soldiers to a foreign land without evidence that our fate depends on it. I have made Aglorea a safer, more powerful, and more proud nation. I have made it an Empire.

"People have said I ordered the murder of former-Senator Phelps early this morning. I stand before you today and openly deny these claims. I did not have him murdered, I had a traitor brought to justice! He spoke against the safety and peace I have brought you all, and he died for demanding democracy. His democracy only caused more suffering. It is for this reason, with the Empire's best interests at heart, that I make this declaration: Anyone who tries to spark suffering by speaking against the Empire's policies will be taken prisoner. This offence may be punishable by death."

With those final, dark words, Emperor Press turned away from the crowd and left the building, followed by his loyal guards.

Official Statement of the Prime Minister

It is with great regret that I have learned of your newest law. I admit that I was hopeful that your rule would be a just one. However small that hope had been, it is now completely missing. Hierphil will not at all condone the punishment of death due to the speaking of political opinion. I urge the Emperor to reconsider this resolution and to take into the account that his power comes from his people. I continue to watch Aglorea with great interest and hope that sometime in the near future, political and human rights will be respected by the new governmental authority.

Kind regards,
Remus York, Prime Minister

Emperor Press: We in Comorostan had hoped you would be able to deal with this threat without the destruction of all civil liberties. We cannot condone such actions, and accordingly, the Internal Security Forces teams will not be arriving. Good day.
-Premier General Cyrano Jones

TELEGRAM
To: Premier General Cyrano Jones
From: Emperor John Press

The declaration is a temporary one that serves only to help locate those that wish to create chaos throughout the Empire. It will be removed once the rebellious activity has dropped to levels that can be resolved through other means, I can assure you of that.

TELEGRAM
To: Premier General Cyrano Jones
From: Emperor John Press

The declaration is a temporary one that serves only to help locate those that wish to create chaos throughout the Empire. It will be removed once the rebellious activity has dropped to levels that can be resolved through other means, I can assure you of that.

We understand. However, the teams are still being withdrawn. They may be sent back if the situation goes critical.

To: 'Empire' of Aglorea, Foreign Relations Department
From: Office of the Minister for Foreign Relations, Salzland
CC: Nations of the World

To Whom It May Concern,

Having noted your "Emperor's" recent press conference, where the following statement was made (with emphasis added): "Anyone who tries to spark suffering by speaking against the Empire's policies will be taken prisoner. This offence may be punishable by death," I have been authorized to forward the following response from the President of Salzland.

"Your 'Empire' is a blight on the face of the world, and deserves to be toppled and replaced with a proper representative government. Now, come and get me."

Thank you, and have a nice day.

Signed,

J. Marcus Davis
Minister for Foreign Relations

"Georgie," Sam smiled. "It's me. I was just thinking about those steamy nights we had in Unibot. I was wondering when you're going to come and see me. What do you say? Can you... get away?"

Baker thought for a split second. "Anything to get out of this place," he muttered. "Where would you like to meet up?"

Sam hesitated. She hadn't expected Baker to be so eager. "Well, I'm in Fatatatutti right now. It's quite a long commute...."

Baker noted her pause. "If you had been stuck in the Empire as long as I have, you'd be quick to leave too."

"Um... are you free to talk?" Sam asked, realizing that she needed a refresher course in conversational Airhead. She could almost hear the Secret Police breathing into the phone.

"So far there's nothing against saying you're tired of the scenery," Baker said casually.

Office of Foreign Minister Donovan
Government House
Brayton, Tolvanic Home Islands

Sir Robert Donovan was rather busy man, what with managing the foreign dealings of nation whose territory spanned the world. As such he personally received very few of the messages that were addressed to him. Most of his correspondence was screened by a small army of lower level Foreign Office bureaucrats. Only those deemed to be of real importance were forwarded for his personal attention. The rather rudely worded communique from the self-declared Emperor of Aglorea was deemed such and brought to Donovan's desk by his personal assistant.

"Bloody rude of these blokes wouldn't you say Jeremy?" Donovan placed the letter back on his desk with a dismissive toss.

"Yes Sir Robert, I would say these fellows have an awfully inflated view of their station in the world."

Donovan leande back in his rather large leather chair while he pondered what to do with this "Emperor Press". "Call the PM and have hims see about dispatching a small task force to conduct exercises off Aglorean waters. Nothing too aggressive, just to remind this chap of his place."

Carrier Battle Group 23
300 nautical miles east of Aglorea

The PM hadn't taken long to ponder the Foreign Office's request for a "demonstration" off of Aglorea. After all the nation was rather unstable and instability tended to foster piracy and other sundry activities that the Commonwealth took a dim view of. As a result CBG 23 had been redirected from its patrols further out to sea to move into the area and make their presence known, maybe their arrival would have moderating influence on the Press Reigime's tyrannical activities.

"An open revolt?" The Prime Minister said to himself.
"Well Chris, you will definitely have our nation's support. I have to go right now, as I have other things to get to, but I will get back to you. Goodbye."

"Well...." Sam didn't want to be the one to say too much but Baker didn't seem concerned so why should she be? "The reason I really called... my, um... uncle told me you're having some, uh... problems in your country. So he was wondering if there was anything we could do to, uh... help.... Care package, that sort of thing.... Or...." She smiled again at the same little old lady in the straw hat and muumuu. If it was anywhere but Fatatatutti, she might have been suspicious but in Fatatatutti a little old lady is almost always just a little old lady. "Or... I could come and pick you up...."

Imperial Palace
Emperor Press looked furiously at his Naval Advisor. "There's a what nearing my waters?"

"A... uh, Tolvan Carrier Group is currently approaching our waters, sir," the Advisor said, nervously.

"If they come within 25 miles, drop some bombs on them. They were warned."


AIA Headquarters
Baker thought for a moment. Finally he said, "Well, a care package isn't really needed, but like I said, I'm tired of the scenery."

"We need to help them somehow sir. They've helped us twice in our time of need."
"Yes, I know that, but with what?"
"Well, probably military aid."
"Yes, but I mean what should we send?"
"Well sir, I could do an estimate on what it would take, and get back to you."
"You do that."

Sam frowned. Is he understanding my code and answering in code? Or does he think I'm talking in clear? I'm not that good at playing the airhead, am I? "Are you coming out or am I coming in?"

OOC: You do realize that territorial waters only extend about twenty-five nautical miles or so from land and that attacking my ships in international waters would be an act of war?

OOC: Only twenty-five? My mistake, I'll change it. No harm, no foul.

Baker responded quickly. "I'll save you the plane ticket. I'll be there by tomorrow if that's alright." He wanted out of this place as quickly as possible. He hated the new Empire, and if Sam wanted to be his ticket out of here, he wasn't about to complain.

"Sounds good," Sam smiled. "I'll see you tomorrow then. Let me know when your flight comes in." She was ready to hang up when she remembered. "Um... I'm calling from a phone booth. I don't have a phone of my own. So, if you call me back at this number, just tell whoever answers to go and find me. Okay. Bye." She hung up. Now, what the hell am I going to do with him?

She dropped another quarter and dialed the phone again. "Hello. Mr. Waverly, please. It's Mrs. Dee."

"Prime Minister."
"Ahh, Field Marshal. Do you have to estimate?"
"Yes I do. Factoring in the current capabilities of the "empire" and the people who would likely revolt their, we would need to send nearly one million troops to even have an effect."
"Well, they are our ally. At least Rescudo's Aglorea is. Phone him again. I want his opinion."

The scrambler activated and the ringer began.

TELEGRAM TO EMPEROR OF ALGOREA FROM PRIME MINISTER REMUS YORK

Mr. Press, if there is any form of approaching conflict in your nation, please call on Hierphil's worldclass diplomats to act as mediators for the conflict so as to avoid bloodshed STOP. Thank you for your attention STOP.

Remus York, Prime Minister

Mangana Palace,
Constantinopolis Secundus,
New Chalcedon. A week previous.

"And that, Majesty, is the Fifth Bureau's estimate of the situation in Aglorea. In summation, the elected President has effectively rewritten the Constitution, crowned himself Emperor and declared martial law. The situation looks to degenerate into anarchy at any moment - and we have valuable trade interests just over the border."

The sunlit office did not seem like the place an Emperor would work. But then again, that was precisely why Michael Doukas-Palailogos worked there - it wasn't full of fancy artwork, framed photographs of its occupant or ornate furnitre which served no purpose besides reminding people how rich its owner was. Instead, a young man sat behind a graceful desk, whilst an older man a blonde woman sat in front of it. The only things on the desk were one photograph of an older, tired-looking man, a built-in deskscreen computer (one of the Empire's specialties was IT) and a blotter.

"Thank you, Madam Director. Please remain while Secretary Lasarkis and I discuss options. If you feel the need to offer advice, please do so."

"At your command, Majesty."

"Andras?" The voice was far too commanding for the youthful looks of its owner. But then, that was a matter of opinion.

"Majesty, we must take some kind of action. We could persuade our corporations to withdraw their operations from the region."

"Not viable, Andras. One hint of it, and the Imperial Party would catch a beating at the next election. Next option, please."

"Armed support of the rebels, perhaps?"

"Again, unacceptable. We're already short of influence in the region; while direct action on our part could conceivable crush the regime, the price - both in lost lives and forfeited influence - would be unacceptable."

"I see, Majesty. Well then, doing nothing is not an option, withdrawing is not an option, and direct action also off the table. How does the saying go, Majesty? 'A steel fist inside a velvet glove'?" He looked at the woman sitting to his right. "The only question is, what sort of velvet glove do we use, and what kind of knuckleduster can we sneak under it?"

"Covert action, Andras? Ithought you hated it."

"I regret the occasional necessity, Majesty. I don't have a personal opinion on it."

"Madam Director, your opinion?"

The blonde woman smiled openly, and powerful Emperor though he was, Michael Doukas-Palaiologos reminded himself not to underestimate this woman who could discuss acts of war with a calm smile. "Majesty, it should be viable. The Fifth Bureau has significant assets in the region. What, precisely, did you have in mind?"

"Some support for the rebels, perhaps. Unofficial stuff - some intel, some logistics, et cetera."

"It can be done, Majesty. But with two caveats: firstly, all data must go through my hands. I will shift myself to a nearby nation to reduce the command and control loop, but I must protect my sources - you know the covenant we make with our agents."

"I understand, Yevlena? The second?"

"All arms purchases must be made from neutral third nations, via our covert expense accounts."

"Agreed, Director. I suggest that you get started."

"It shall be done, Majesty."

"Very good, Andras. Now, about Comorostan's rumoured helping of the dictator...."

***

Southern Tablelands,
Aglorea. Current time.

Rebecca Farrah was a short, trim, eternally cheerful woman known to her friends as 'Becky'. And she made a lot of friends. Indeed, she was so good at making friends and getting people to trust her that she was the personal agent of the regional controller for the Fifth Bureau, sent in when all other options looked unpromising at best.

At present, she was fiddling with her field-telephone, trying to get through the Aglorean lockdown on all unregistered telecommunications devices. Finally, she got the codes through the system and dialled her number, wondering why her target was taking so long to pick up. Eventually, however, he did so.

"Hello, is this Mr. Rescudo?"

The voice came back tinnily through the filters on her phone.

"Yes, this is. How can I help you?"

"A staffer of yours was on vacation in a nearby nation shortly before this...situation started. She had you listed as her alternate contact and power-of-attorney in case of emergency, and had not rescinded this prior to her unfortunate accident on a ski lift. She remains in a coma, and we are considering options of legal action regarding the ski resort. Can we please meet at your convenience to discuss your options as her guardian?"

Whilst she waited for a response, Becky hoped that this wouldn't trip any alarms even if someone were tapping in.....which her equipment indicated they weren't. Still, Imperial agents didn't live long enough to collect their pensions by taking needless risks, although given their line of work, the odds of collecting a pension were slim to none anyway......

(OOC: I hope that suits you, Aglorea. Comments on my writing style, anyone? The telephone call was about a page ago, and no-one has posted talking to Mr. Rescudo, so I thought I would.)

Premier General Cyrano Jones sat down in the meeting room of the Palace. "OK, gentlemen, what do we have on the Aglorea situation?" Mark Tanner, commander of SWORD and a close friend of Jones, spoke up. "The Emperor has continued to crush civil liberties. He has banned public use of cars in the capital and executed a prominent government official." Jones paused. "Withdrawing the ISF teams was a good response, but there has to be another measure. Military Director Mike Kistlen spoke, "Sir, a Tolvan Carrier Group is moving towards Alglorea. I recommend we send a few ships to support them." "Good idea, Mike. Order a couple of frigates to go accompany the battle group."

To the Tolvan Government: We would like to send 3 Type 23 frigates to support your carrier battle group, to show our disapproval of the Emperor's actions.

"Ah, just the man I was looking for. I see there has been a distasteful change in government recently. Being a budding major business we always enjoy finding new proposals to enhance both our and our partner's wealth. We currently see the current regime as more hostile, and were wondering how you felt on the subject." Coronel Miranda scratched an itch on his back, waiting for a reply.

*OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE*

TO: Government of Comorostan
FROM: Sir Robert Donovan, Foreign Minister, Commonwealth of Tolvan

RE: Situation in Aglorea

While the Commonwealth is typically wary of joint operations with nations that do we do not have prior dealings, His Majesty's Government has decided that given the gravity of the situation your assistance would be welcome. Have your forces coordinate with the Commander of Carrier Battle Group 23, Admiral Lord Bruce Fletcher, as to the deployment and disposition of your forces.

Be advised that the Commonwealth's foreign policy goals may be carried out independently of your own and our forces will not drawn into any conflict without the approval of His Majesty's Government. Additionally, any actions taken by your forces which may imperil our forces will be dealt with harshly should they occur.

OOC: I'll take the Rescudo phone calls in the order they were posted.

Residence of the Former President
Chris Rescudo leaned back in his chair. "We currently see the current regime as more hostile, and were wondering how you felt on the subject."

He responded quickly and confindently, "I have spoken out against the Emperor's policies from day one, and would support any attempts to change his policies. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have another call coming in." He hoped that whoever called would be able to do something, and that they would understand what he meant. Every second that went by seemed to point to an open rebellion against the Empire. If only Press hadn't been so greedy with the power. What good is security if you couldn't even go outside without being watched?

The voice on the other line said, "Can we please meet at your convenience to discuss your options as her guardian?"

He thought for a moment. He didn't know who they were talking about, and his number wasn't given out that freely, so it must be someone important. "Sure, it sounds pretty important. I can be on the first flight in the morning. Where did you say she was?"


Imperial Palace
Emperor Press glanced menacingly at his naval advisor. "Let me get this straight, Admiral," he said with frustration. "There is another battle group moving into MY waters?"

"Yes, sir," the advisor said with a hint of sadness in his voice. "Does your previous order still stand?"

"Of course. If they come into our waters, bomb them. They were warned, after all." He dismissed the advisor before turning to look out the window behind his desk. It was dark, about eleven o'clock at night, and things were peaceful. The public had responded well to the car ban: they didn't drive much these days anyway. Still, there were some that weren't too happy about it-

Suddenly, the glass in front of his face cracked. He blinked, then leaned forward to look at the white lines that moved from a single point. Buried in the center of the damaged glass was a single bullet, trapped halfway through by the bulletproof glass. An assassination attempt. The guards that patrolled the palace were alerted, and a man was gunned down as he ran away from the area. Headlines the next morning would read: "Emperor Press increases security in capital, assassination attempt halted."

To the Tolvan Government-The Type 23 frigates have met up with your battle group. We will consult with your nation before taking any action.

Coronel Miranda smiled a bit, but he had to leave quickly so his happiness was short-lived, visually atleast, "Very good then, we will be contacting you in another few days, god speed. Remember that." He hung up the phone, that was the answer that they were looking for, or atleast were hoping for, then again his interpretation could be very, very wrong spell doom for the operation, but he had to go threw with it. A ring chimed in on another of his lines, "El ex presidente parece ir por ella. Tenemos que movilizar a uno de nuestros regimientos."

"Bien, bien, bien. Movilizar a la 1ª División-de-Infantería-Ligero-de-Pies, 2ª Brigada-de-Infantería-Ligera, 4ª Regimiento-de-Infantería." The executive on the other line paused for thought, or perhaps he was talking with someone else intelligibly. "Supervisar su formación encubierta, y quiero que usted personalmente a cargo de la misma. C4 está siendo enviado a su base." There was no other reply then 'si, senor.' and then the line went dead again. Miranda wasn't looking forward to training another group of men, especially when he had to deal with another Coronel, but it was for la Democracia, it had to be done.

Southern Tablelands,
Aglorea. Current time.

"Sure, it sounds pretty important. I can be on the first flight in the morning. Where did you say she was?"

Becky had to think quickly about this one - she had expected the man to get the hint sooner.

"She was in a skiing accident in the Comorostani Mountains, Mr. Rescudo. And as for flights, I am currently near the souther border of Aglorea. Name a city and I'm sure I can get a flight to meet you there - given the gravity of this legal matter, I wouldn't want you to feel uncomfortable." The last word was said with an almost undetectable emphasis, and Becky hoped fervently that the man would pick somewhere he could be confident of not being overheard. Else this was going to be a very short cov.op, and very possibly a very nasty war.

Residence of the Former President
Rescudo paused for a second to think. Where was a relatively large city that wouldn't have the issue of Imperial spies? "You can meet me in Kevi, if that suits you," he said finally. "There's a small airport there, and it's not to far from me, so I can be there by tomorrow morning. There's this great little restaurant right across from the airport." As a last note he added, "They have great burgers. I'll see you there at ten in the morning. Good night." He hung up the phone and stood up. He moved to his bedroom and decided to get some sleep. The way things were going he was going to need it.


Aglorean Airlines Flight 77
George Baker sat in his seat on the relatively comfortable plane. He had managed to get a seat next to a relatively small individual you didn't snore when he slept. Overall, a good flight. They were about to enter Fatatattuti airspace, where he would leave the plane and figure out where to go from there. Getting out of the country had been suprisingly easy: he simply told them that his girlfriend wanted to see him, so he had to go. His conversation (which had been recorded by other intellegence groups in the country) made it necessary to make this claim, and it held up rather well. They asked no questions and he was out of the area within an hour.

There was, however, the matter of the man sitting two rows back and on the other side of the aisle. The man had followed him to the airport after he had gotten two blocks away from the AIA Headquarters, and had tried to make it look like he wasn't. He then got on the plane and took his present seat. Baker would have to make him disappear, he dicided as the plane touched down.

Fatatatutti International Airport

Sam sat in a bright yellow Mitsubishi 500 just behind the taxi stand. There was only one flight due from Aglorea and she was reasonably certain that Waverly had pulled some strings to have that one allowed in. Fatatatutti was rather skittish about flights from war zones, dictatorships, militaristic nations - well, any place less wholesome than Disneyland.

She wondered why she was expecting to see Baker in a dinner jacket. She smiled at the thought of him greeting her with, "Baker. George Baker." Then she realized that she had only ever seen him dressed up, on that one night back in Unibot.

She remembered the massacre that night and hoped he wasn't bringing trouble with him.

Baker stepped off of the plane. He was wearing a royal blue short sleeved shirt with a collar, and had a tan jacket in his hand. He hadn't been sure how cold Fatatatutti was this time of year, so he had brought it along just in case. The man was still following him as he walked out of the airport.

Sam stopped the Mistsubishi in front of Baker. She leaned over with a big smile on her face and flung the door open. "What were you expecting? An Aston Martin? This thing is a lot less conspicuous around here."

She looked past him. "Who's your friend?"

Baker climbed into the car. "Don't look at him. Just drive. Good to see you again, by the way."

"I'm taking you to a safe house," Sam said. She turned to him and smiled. "To keep me safe, not you. I don't let anybody know where I live." She put the car in gear and pulled away from the curb. "Better fasten your seat belt. I have a history of wrecking these things."

Indeed, it seemed that every second car on the streets of Fatatatutti was a Mitsubishi 500, vintage 1960. But at the speed the traffic was moving, up to twenty kilometers per hour, it seemed that seatbelts weren't all that important. Or even doors.

Sam drove away from the airport on what passed for a highway, two lanes wide and paved, but soon the reason for the seatbelts became apparent. She slowed and eased down into the ditch and then made a sudden right turn into a cane field. "Short cut," she smiled, glancing in the rear-view mirror.

A trail about two meters wide had been cut through the cane, which towered overhead like a green tunnel. After a few zigzags, they came out onto a dirt road and turned left. "That's how you avoid the traffic," Sam explained.

She glanced at Baker. "By the way, in case you were confused by our little phone conversation, I should set the record straight. I like girls."

The sky was almost blindingly blue. There were cane fields to the left and tall grasses to the right and once in a while a glaring white beach was just visible. They drove on in silence for several minutes and the cane fields turned to trees.

Then another sharp left turn into the trees. The trail here was just two ruts with grass growing between that brushed the floorboards of the car.

Finally, they stopped. "Here we are," Sam announced. The house was built of wood and hardly visible among the trees. The roof was thatched. Sam got out of the car and grabbed Baker's bag from the back seat. "There's a little beach over there." She waved the bag vaguely at the trees. "The neighbours are a few hundred meters away. Don't be afraid of the children."

She climbed the steps and dropped Baker's bag on the verandah. "Beer in the fridge," she said, pushing the door open. "If the generator doesn't cut in by itself, just give it a kick." She turned to face him with her fists on her hips. "I'd give you the grand tour but you're already looking at the whole thing." She threw the car keys on the small wooden table. "I'll leave the car with you. I'll hike into town and borrow another one."

She brushed past him and disappeared out the door. "See you later," she called back over her shoulder. "If your little friend did manage to follow us, try not to get blood on my country."

"By the way, in case you were confused by our little phone conversation, I should set the record straight. I like girls."

Baker raised an eyebrow at this before saying, "So do I." As they drove to the "house", he could only wonder if the man had managed to keep pace with them. Once they finally arrived, he could only frown at the run down looking place. He had stayed in some bad places before, but this was a little different.

"If your little friend did manage to follow us, try not to get blood on my country."

"I wouldn't dream of it," Baker muttered, more to himself than anyone else. He grabbed his bag, set it on the table next to the keys (which he quickly put into his pocket), and opened it up. Inside were two changes of clothes, a cell phone that wasn't bugged, and a single handgun (complete with suppressor and two extra magazines). He took the gun out, attached the suppressor, and set it on the table nearby as he took a seat. If the man that was after him comes in, Baker was ready.

OOC: not that i'm even involved in this thread, but i just wanted to compliment Fatatatutti. I really like your style of writing.

Late that afternoon...

Another Mitsubishi, identical to the first except that this one was green, came bumping up the trail, almost invisible against the background of the trees. Sam got out along with two men, both wearing brightly coloured flowered shirts. The taller one was sixtyish, distinguished looking, with iron gray hair and a thin moustache. The other was Asian, slightly stocky, with glasses and a big permanent smile. He looked distinctly like a tourist.

Sam waved at Baker as he got up from his chair on the verandah. "Still alive, I see," she smiled. "George Baker, this is Alexander Waverly, my, uh, uncle... and Mickey Chang, the Prime Minister of Fatatatutti."

Southern Tablelands,
Aglorea. Current time.

After the phone call was terminated, Becky took out her map and looked at it.

"Hmm, Kevi Airport. Kevi, Kevi.....ah, here it is!" Then she noted where it was relative to her position, and smiled. It seemed that the ex-President knew his country well. Kevi was a smaller city, but well-positioned, having a relatively central location within the region. She pulled out her electronic briefing, and looked up the entry on Kevi whilst packing her gear back into her rented 4WD for the trip back to the nearby town and its small airport.

(OOC: Basically, Becky will probably know anything that is unclassified about Kevi from the e-briefing, as well as low-level classified information. With anything higher, it's strictly hit-and-miss.)

Baker moved to shake the two men's hands. "Nice to meet you," was his first comment as he sent a look to Sam, a look that said, 'what are they doing here?'

Sam disappeared into the house for a few moments and returned with four beers. The Prime Minister was already comfortable in a deck chair. She passed out the bottles, leaned back against the railing and sipped her beer. Baker had managed the generator, she noted with satisfaction.

Waverly clasped his hands behind his back and looked at Baker with piercing eyes. "I'm in charge of Department Six of the Fatatatutti Intelligence service," he said. "FI6." He turned slightly and gazed in the direction of the beach. "As you might have guessed already, Samantha helps us out from time to time." He turned back toward Baker. "We were prepared to send her to Aglorea to extract you, if necessary." He glanced at Sam and his eyes smiled slightly. "She's quite good at extractions." He turned toward Baker again. "I think I'll leave it to the Prime Minister to explain our interest in you. Prime Minister?"

Mickey Chang had been smiling all along as if they had been discussing the weather. "Yes," he said. "Well, we were wondering what we could do to help your nation in these troubling times and, since Ms. Smith was acquainted with you previously and you are, I believe, something of her counterpart in an Intelligence capacity... we asked her to try to contact you. Frankly, we weren't expecting such personal contact."

He paused briefly but never stopped smiling. "So, Mr. Baker, my first questions to you are... Do you intend to resist the changes in your nation? Are you here for our help? Or are you a refugee?"

.4ª Regimiento was transferred from the command of Coronel Jordíaz to Coronel Miranda. They had been training solidly in the use of their anti-armored and mine components along with one man per platoon with an expertise in the employment of C4 and other high-yield explosives. Miranda's last report was satisfactory to la Democracia and they were prepped for deployment to Aglorea.

The second time another man whose name is unnecessary called the ex-president, "God speed." He said solemnly.

[OOC: Sorry for the short post but couldn't think of much else. >.<]

"So, Mr. Baker, my first questions to you are... Do you intend to resist the changes in your nation? Are you here for our help? Or are you a refugee?"

Baker thought for a moment. He had just been glad to get out of the Empire. He hated Emperor Press and his policies, but was he willing to actually fight it? "I suppose," he began as he leaned back in his chair, "that I am more of a refugee than anything else. I simply wanted out of the country, and Sam here was the perfect excuse. I am, however, willing to give you information about the Empire's policies..."


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea
Former President Chris Rescudo climbed out of his car (he drove himself around these days) and moved over to the little burger joint that was across from the airport. He walked inside, took a seat at a booth towards the back, and waited for his contact. While most of the people inside recognized him, they either didn't care about his presence or hated him so much they refused to make contact. This area of Aglorea, however, had always been relatively pro-Rescudo, so most of the people were the first option.

The Former President ordered a simple cheeseburger with tomato and onion, and a Coke. He had often eaten here during his presidency, and the owners and cooks loved his being there, and enjoyed being able to use the slogan "The President's Favorite Burger!". Rescudo sighed and leaned back. Over the years, his dark brown hair had faded to a silver (although some brown remained), and his face had become slightly wrinkled. He hadn't bothered to shave lately, so his normally clean shaven face was rough with dark hairs. The burger arrived as the clock struck ten.

"Very well." The Prime Minister straightened up. "In that case, we won't trouble you any further." He stood up and picked up his beer bottle by the neck. "I'm sure Ms. Smith will be glad to help you get settled. Welcome to Fatatatutti."

Waverly moved a step closer toward Baker and spoke in a lowered tone. "I trust you'll be disposing of that pistol," he said, his eyes piercing again. "We frown on such things around here."

"We have quite a good recycling program," the Prime Minister smiled. "They'll turn it into something useful for you. Spoons, or something like that." He turned to Waverly. "I wonder, how do they recycle the ammunition?"

"Well, the lead and brass have their uses," Waverly mused. "I suppose the chemicals must be disposed of somehow."

"My wife has quite a collection of spoons," Chang beamed at Baker, "from all over the world. Not that we ever leave the island, but our friends bring them home for us. Ms. Smith brought us one from... what was that place?"

"Unibot," Sam answered.

"Yes, Unibot. And what was that other place? The one in the Indian Ocean?"

"Ilois."

"Ah, yes. Pity you couldn't bring one from... what was the last place?"

"UlanPataar. I don't know if they have spoons there." For all she knew, they ate with their hands.

The Prime Minister moved toward the steps. "We're all invited to a luau next door," he said. "You too, of course, Mr. Baker. Come along and sample some of our native Fatatatutian dishes."

"Yes, do come," Waverly followed the Prime Minister.

Sam shrugged. "Might as well. There's no food in the house, unless you went shopping while I was gone." She started for the steps and gestured to him to follow.

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Becky Farrah had been watching the restaurant for almost an hour. When Mr. Rescudo walked in, brazen as daylight, she thought a silent prayer and hoped that his apparent faith in the discretion of the people here would be rewarded.

As the clock struck ten, Mr. Rescudo could see a black-haired woman wearing a moderately well-tailored (the sleeves were a little loose for current fashion) charcoal-gray pantsuit walk in the door. Her frame seemed oddly puffy, as if she was carrying a little much weight and she carried a briefcase in her left hand.

She looked around and spotted Mr. Rescudo, then immediately walked to his table.

"Mr. Rescudo? Arianna O'Rourke, of Barrington and Associates. I belive we have an engagement to meet at about this time. Do you have somewhere we can talk discreetly? The matter at hand involves certain delicate legal issues, and I don't want to prejudice our client's case by being indiscreet."

HMS King Timothy (CVN-48)
Carrier Battle 23
200 nautical miles east of Aglorea

"Admiral on Deck!" The crew of the King Timothy's flag bridge went to Duty Attention at bosun's loud proclamation as Vice Admiral Lord Hunter Townsend (The Sixth Count of White Ridge) strode into the chamber.

"Mr. Sanchez, any activity of note?"

Lt. Commander Eduardo Sanchez looked up from his map plot to address the Admiral. "The three Comorostani frigates have taken up positions ten nautical miles from main body of the task force. We have the Glaston in position to keep an eye on them for the time being. Three Type 23 frigates are no match for a County class, and Commander Fitzpatrick is one of our best COs."

Townsend walked over to survey the plot board while he contemplated his next course of action."I think we've made our point for now, take us fifty nm back out to sea, inform our new "alies" of our intentions. If they wish to accompany us they are free to do so."

Encrypted Message to the HMS King Timothy
Due to a conflict taking place closer to our homeland, we are forced to withdraw our frigates from the support of your battlegroup. They are not expected to reurn soon, but should that change, your government will be informed.

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Rescudo sat up a bit more. "Well, I think we'd be fine talking here," he said. "But if you want someplace else, the owner would let us go to the back. He's an old friend of mine." He took a bite from his burger while he waited for the woman to respond.


Imperial Palace,
Aglorea City, Empire of Aglorea

Emperor Press was once again speaking to his naval advisor. "So their fleet is moving back?" was all he asked.

"Yes," came the reply. "And the fleet from Comorostan is leaving the area completely. I have ordered our planes to stand down, and-"

"You did what? Because their fleet slips a few miles back, you call off our response? Get them back to ready positions." With that order, Press dismissed the advisor and turned to again look out the window. The damaged pane had been replaced, and he had a clear view of the late morning area around the palace. He had released a statement that speaking against the Empire and it's policies would no longer be punished with death. The sentencing of five men to death and an additional ten to long prison terms had backfired, for the most part. There had been a number of outcries against this inside the nation as well as internationally, and so Press had "deemed it necessary to temporarily suspend the death penalty in all cases of commentary against Imperial actions."

Press turned to his television set, which was currently showing the execution of the five men. While he had removed the death penalty for such actions, it was too late for these men. They had been sentenced before the declaration, and must serve the punishment. The Emperor watched as the five, with hands tied behind their backs, were led to the center of the designated area (the same one that Phelps had died on) and were shot.


Fatatatutti

Baker moved to follow the group of three. He was annoyed at the comment about his gun, which he had left on the table. The man hadn't followed him, but he was still a threat, so Baker would have to find him soon. Once this little luau was over, of course.

There must have been at least a hundred people in the yard. Some of them came over to greet Sam and they greeted Baker too as if he was a member of the family.

"There's somebody I want you to meet," Sam said. "Wait here." She disappeared into the crowd.

A little dark-haired girl came over and tipped her head back to look up at Baker. "My name is Choo-Choo," she said. "I'm eight years old. Have you seen my duck?" When he didn't answer right away, she continued," His name is Alphonse. He bites."

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

"Very well, Mr. Rescudo. I suppose that will suffice. Please, lead the way."

Baker looked down at the girl. He wasn't a fan of kids, especially ones like this. "Quite a name you have, Choo-Choo," was all he said. "Your parents are fans of trains, I take it."


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

The former-President stood up and said, "right this way." He motioned to the owner, who was busy taking orders from customers, and got a nod in return. Rescudo led the way behind the counter and through the kitchen, where the cooks gave a friendly "hello" or a "good to see you again". Once they were through the kitchen, they were in a little room with a table in the center and a large safe on the side wall. "This is where the owner keeps the money that isn't in a bank," he explained as he took a seat. "So, what do you really want to talk about?"

"I don't know if there are any trains in Fatatatutti," Choo-Choo said. My real name is Xiao Jing because I was born on Chinese New Years. But nobody knows how to say Xiao Jing so everybody calls me Choo-Choo."

Sam came back through the crowd, stopping every few seconds to talk to somebody. She had a girl in tow, dressed in red shorts and a Black Sabbath T-shirt, with neatly braided blonde hair. She wasn't much bigger than Choo-Choo. She looked to be about twelve but as she came closer, she seemed to be closer to Sam's age.

"Here, try the coconut wine," Sam said, handing Baker a paper cup. "You can really taste the coconut. There's also pineapple wine, and papaya, and guava.... Grapes don't grow too well here. Too hot or too cold or something. George Baker, meet General Castro-Stalina."

"Call me Marie-Louise," the blonde smiled.

"She's a paratrooper," Sam explained, "With a little itsy-bitsy parachute."

Marie-Louise spanked her playfully.

Sam laughed. "I see you've already met my friend Choo-Choo. You guys talk. I think I know where I can find Alphonse." She disappeared into the crowd again.

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

The woman chucked quietly.

"You're a sharp one, Mr. Rescudo. Suffice it to say that I represent certain people who are profoundly unhappy with the current regime. They have a vested interest in regional stability, and feel that your current leader's insanity threatens this, and hence their interests. They are prepared to apply significant resources to see to it that regional stability returns, and trust me, Mr. Rescudo - you won't owe them a thing afterward. If you have questions here and now, I am quite prepared to answer them - up to a point. Also, I have in a warehouse nearby the first instalment of our support - if you're interested in ousting that blood-soaked tyrant, this is."

Baker frowned. He took a drink from the cup, hoping there was only coconut wine in it, as he said, "a paratrooper, eh?"


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Rescudo only had one question. "If anything like that is to happen, it will take more than what I have available. It will take people to fight against this tyrant. Although most of Aglorea hates the Emperor, they won't risk open rebellion when the risks are so high. How do you propose to convince them?"

"I'm retired from the Army," Marie-Louise answered. "So you're not going to invade Aglorea after all, I hear. If you were, they were going to hook you up with me. Of course, it would be illegal to send Fatatatutian troops out of the country but I'm sure we could raise a brigade or two of volunteers. They wanted me to command.

"I might have accepted, on the condition that we didn't just go around killing people. That's no way to run a war. War is about objectives, not killing. You, presumably, know what the objectives are.

"I was thinking more in terms of a gigantic Intelligence op instead of a shooting war."

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

'Arianna' was impressed. "As perceptive as you are wise, I see. Our effort rests on this foundation: any regime that must resort to public executions of dissident politicians is founded on fear."

"Inflict even a trifling defeat on them, and they lose that foundation, as people no longer fear them. Better, demonstrate that they cannot make good on their threats, and people will cease to fear them - and their actions will have hardly engendered any kind of love on the part of the people."

"There are nations moving against Aglorea at this moment. Only one significant defeat of Imperial forces will be required to be the spark to start a blazing rebellion. And you, aided by our equipment and weapons, will be far more ready to seize the moment that that bumbling fool who calls himself an "Emperor" can possibly believe, and restore democracy to Aglorea."

"They wanted me to command."

"I'm sure you would have done an excellent job," Baker responded to this statement in the most conversational manner possible.

"You, presumably, know what the objectives are."

"Often in war I have found that the objective must be to kill people. Otherwise the enemy won't surrender," he mentioned as she paused.

"I was thinking more in terms of a gigantic Intelligence op instead of a shooting war."

"I've been in the intellegence community for a while. Before that I was in the Aglorean Airborne," Baker said plainly. "And intellegence has always seems to me to be the most effective way to get what you want."


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Rescudo's face turned grim. "I am not a warrior. I am a just a politician with the people's best interest at heart. If a rebellion does begin, I will not fight directly. I'm getting too old for that sort of thing. I will, however, help in any way I can." He paused for a moment. "At the first sign of rebellion, Press will probably do everything he can to keep the public under control. The executions can be expected to rise considerably. The situation must be handled delicately."

"As for the significant defeat," he said after a moment. "What did you have in mind?"

"Often in war I have found that the objective must be to kill people. Otherwise the enemy won't surrender."

"Surrender isn't a well thought out objective," Marie-Louise said. "We're talking about your own people here. You can't expect them to surrender and then go on living beside you like nothing happened. You should be thinking about reconcilliation, not surrender. And you don't work your way up to reconcilliation by killing people.

"If that's your attitude, I'm just as glad we're not going. We have a population of only six billion. We can't afford to lose any." She looked at him closely and frowned slightly. "That's not a joke. It's national policy... and it's my policy." She lowered her voice noticeably. "If I was to lose a soldier on a... foreign adventure, I'd be disgraced." She added, almost as an afterthought, "Wouldn't be a picnic for whoever got killed either."

OOC: Too tired now. Expect a post in about 12 hours - or so.

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

The woman looked amused.

"Mr. Rescudo, how aware are you of external affairs these days? Because I rather doubt that Aglorea will have a military left by the time its enemies are done. Which will provide us the opening we need."

Baker frowned at the comment about surrender. "Reconciliation comes after the fight is over, whether it be a military conflict or something as simple as a debate," he said. "Besides, the way things are looking, the Emperor won't surrender, and will have to be taken care of through... other methods. Cut off the head and the body will die. This one will, at least."

"Wouldn't be a picnic for whoever got killed either."

"It never is," he added grimly.


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Rescudo smiled slightly. "The Imperial army is growing every day. Just before I left to come here the Emperor approved a budget increase. I wouldn't doubt that he's preparing for a war. It would be bloody for all sides involved. But against an international coalition, the Aglorean army would fall." His face grew grim at that last statement. "And when it does start to collapse, any rebellion that managed to begin would only speed up the process. That brings me to just one point: I need to know that power would be restored to the Aglorean people, and not given to some foreign power that would make this nation their puppets."

Choo-Choo appeared again, wearing a huge flower in her hair. She tipped her head back to look up at Baker. "I have a flower," she said. "It means I'm not married."

"Reconciliation comes after the fight is over, whether it be a military conflict or something as simple as a debate."

"Nonsense," Marie-Louise said. "Reconcilliation is to prevent fighting." She looked Baker up and down. "That's the first thing you should have learned in kindergarten - how to play well with others."

"Besides, the way things are looking, the Emperor won't surrender, and will have to be taken care of through... other methods. Cut off the head and the body will die. This one will, at least."

"That's what we had in mind," Marie-Louise said, "Drop in a few paratroopers and yank him out of there. Drop him off somewhere where he can't do any harm. I know just the place, back side of Antarctica or some such godawful place, colder than a witch's...."

"I helped cook the pig," Choo-Choo said. "My finger got burnded." She held up a small finger with a large bandaid on it.

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Arianna nodded to Rescudo's point.

"A valid concern, Mr. Rescudo. I assure you, my principals' interests are linked to one thing only: regional stability. They have extensive trading interests in surrounding nations, and chaos here could have painful repercussions on the economy back home. The 'Emperor' threatens regional stability; thus, we oppose him. Other than that, we really could care less who's in charge in Aglorea, or how they maintain their rule. We are not humanitarians, Mr. Rescudo, and you wouldn't believe me if I said we were. However, if we should forge a congenial working relationship, well, rest assured, we don't forget our friends."

Baker tried to hide his annoyance. He wasn't a big fan of kids, or pig (he had always prefered turkey or chicken). He quickly downed the rest of his wine as a thought occured to him. With a quick "excuse me for a moment" he turned around and walked to a relatively quiet area and took out his cell phone. He dialed the number and waited for the answer.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Del? Baker here. I need you to run a search for all Imperial agents that left on a flight to Fatatatutti the same day I did. Same flight, too."

"You're on a secure phone, I take it?"

"I wouldn't have called if I wasn't."

"Right. Here it is: Colton Jackson, blond hair, average height, athletic. That fit the description?"

"Yeah, it does. Any info in his bio that would point me to where he might be hiding?"

"Well, I'd watch myself around him. He's dangerous, and part of ISID. As for a hiding spot, I don't see much. Looks like he frequents bars, so I'd look for him in one of those."

"Alright, thanks Del. See you whenever I can get back."

"Right, see you."

Baker returned his phone to his pocket and returned to Marie-Louise. "Is there a bar anywhere near the airport? I need to find someone."


Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

Rescudo nodded. "So then, it is decided. You will provide the weapons and equipment. I will begin working towards convincing others to side with us. If the international community delivers a heavy blow soon, then the Emperor's rule will be over shortly. Is there anything else we need to discuss? Otherwise I think it's best we go our separate ways so we don't draw attention to this whole thing."

"Is there a bar anywhere near the airport? I need to find someone."

Marie-Louise wrinkled her forehead. "There are bars and then there are bars." She noticed Mr. Waverly moving toward them casually, with a drink in one hand and the other hand behind his back. "There are some seedy bars down by the docks but foreigners usually don't go there - unless they're seedy foreigners. Then there are some tourist traps along Hotel Row but you're probably not looking for a tourist, are you? Probably not a gullible tourist, anyway."

Waverly nodded at several people before he came to a stop beside Choo-Choo. He smiled down at her and patted her head. "What a lovely flower, my dear."

He turned to Baker. "Samantha has asked me to offer her apologies. She's been called away, family business or something like that. She trusts that you will enjoy your evening and the remainder of your stay on the island."

He continued more expansively, as if giving a speech, "You might not know it to look at her, Mr. Baker, but our friend Samantha is a Hero of the People. That's the highest honour we give to our soldiers. It wouldn't do to advertise that fact, of course, given her present position. On more than one occasion she has risked her own life to save someone that you would call an enemy. Her objective - and ours - is to save lives, not take them.

"Have you ever been in a war, Mr. Baker?" Waverly raised one eyebrow slightly. "Perhaps you have. The General here," he leaned his head slightly toward Marie-Louise, "is too modest to mention it, I'm sure, but she has prevented several wars. That is what we admire in Fatatatutti."

He leaned ever so slightly toward Baker and lowered his voice. "I think you'll find that Samantha has taken care of that little... item of yours on her way out. Unfortunately, you won't be getting the spoons you were hoping for." He straightened up.

OOC: For the record, which item would that be?

OOC: Gun. You left it on the table.

OOC: I figured as much, just making sure.

IC:
Baker frowned at the man. "I've been in a war, yes," he said. "And congratulations to you, general, for your success in preventing wars. The world needs more people like you, and less people like me." He smiled slightly. He suddenly changed pace. "When is this little party over? If you don't mind me asking, that is."

"When is this little party over? If you don't mind me asking, that is."

Marie-Louise smiled. "When the food is gone. I'd estimate Tuesday. But you're free to come and go as you please. If you have something else to do, come back when you're done. Even if there's nobody else left, my Bruddah will feed you breakfast or whatever. He's our host and Choo-Choo's father."

Choo-Choo looked up at Baker. "You can play with Alphonse if you want. I'll tell him not to bite you. But he doesn't listen."

Kevi, Empire of Aglorea

"Of course, Mr. Rescudo. This," she scribbled down an address, "is the location of a warehouse. In the second aisle from the back, on the ground under the shelves at the eastern wall, you should find a book with a number of locations written in the inside back cover. Those locations are the locations of arms and equipment caches. I'm afraid that, in total, it should be no more than about 1,000 troops worth - and it was a nightmare getting that much in, in the first place. You can count on no more support from us other than this, although we will do what we can to help you, of course. The second number is a contact number for my superior officer. Her name is Yseult DiPalmi, and she will be your contact from this point on. If you need anything, let her know. As I said, we will do what we can, just don't count on it being very much. Please don't let that number fall into the wrong hands."

"A pleasure to be of service, Mr. Rescudo."

Baker looked down at Choo-Choo. "No thanks, I have something to do," was all he said as he turned to leave. The sun was setting when he finally got back into the capital city, as it was a longer drive than he had expected. When he pulled up in front of a bar in the 'Hotel Row' (which had taken him a while to find, as he didn't know where to go) and climbed out of the car. He made his way inside and looked around the room. It was a decent enough looking place, a bit of grime here and there, but overall very well kept. He made his way to the bar, ordered a drink, and took a seat. He found his target just as he recieved the requested drink, and he swallowed it quickly. He moved to a back corner of the building, where Colton Jackson, the man who had followed him here, was sitting with his head on the table, with empty bottles and glasses all around him. He gave the table a little kick, quickly getting Jackson's attention.

"What do you want?" was all Jackson said as he looked up. When he realized it was Baker, his face grew suprised and he leaned back.

"Get up, and don't make a scene," Baker responded coldly. "Come on, quickly, quickly!" The man stood up, a little slowly, and moved to follow Baker. "I don't think so, buddy. You go first. Top floor." The man lead the way up four flights of stairs to the rooftop, and Baker forced him closer to the edge before knocking his legs out from under him. Jackson fell forward, Baker's grip the only thing keeping him from falling to the ground. The man let out a scream as Baker barked, "Why are you so interested in me?"

"The Emperor likes to keep tabs on his employees," the man cried out quickly. "A government agent leaves the country, he wants to know why!"

"Did you send a message to anyone, yet?"

"No! I had nothing to report! Hey, what are you doing?" Baker tossed him over the edge. He got the information he needed. The man knew nothing and Baker was clear. He made his way back to the party after the body landed in a dumpster with a clank.


Residence of the Former-President

Former Aglorean President Chris Rescudo lay down in his bed that night, his mind racing. He had stopped at the warehouse on his way home, gotten the book, and locked it into the middle right drawer of his desk. He wouldn't open it again until he could get enough men to use the supplies. He hoped to hear from some foreign official soon that would be willing to deliver that crushing blow, before the people's will was gone.

When Choo-Choo saw Baker return, she went over and looked up at him again. "You missed the hula contest," she said. " I didn't win." When he didn't respond right away, she continued, "A girl with boobies won."

Fifth Bureau safehouse,
Neighbouring Country.

Yevlena Parnassia smiled with satisfaction as one of her most efficient subordinates gave her report.

"Well done, Becky. You're sure he'll act?"

"As sure as I can be, Madam Director."

"Very good. You may consider yourself to be on some well-earned leave. You have fulfilled your mission; I would reward you by requiring that you relax in your off-duty time."

"Relax?" Becky Farrah's smile was sardonic. "As the Director requires, of course. I shall be sure to put my all into my orders."

After Farrah left, the Director called her field team.

"What's the status of our hacking-teams' progress?"

The response was immediate. "Some, Madam Director. We can listen in to low-priority government transmissions. We may be able to jam them, but it would be noticed."

"I see. So let's go for the brute-force approach, in order to ensure that 'Emperor' Press' forces lose their battles. Alexei, Ivan, see to the safehouse's disposal. All others - we meet at the docks at seven tomorrow morning."

Private vessel Shadow Chaser,
Near the Agloran coast.
Four days later.

The Shadow Chaser was a rich widow's yacht, cleared to sail almost anywhere in hte world not bound by serious security restrictions by virtue of its society A-list owner.

Its power to travel the coast of Aglorea in a state of martial law came from a much simpler source: the power of the purse. Heavy bribes were paid in order to ensure that not only was the 80' yacht not hindered in her trip, but that she was not even inspected beyond a cursory look into hatches.

And, therefore, that the dozen or so oddly-shaped pods within various un-obvious compartments wouldn't get spotted.

(OOC: Damn, what happened to Tolvan? If he doesn't come back, the Imperial Navy would have to get involved...or find someone to do so on their behalf. A military blow is needed for the regime-change-from-within to work.)

(OOC: I'll send Tolvan a message in a minute. Hopefully he'll jump back in.)

IC:
Baker looked at Choo-Choo and smiled. "They always do," he said. It was amazing, he thought, that he was able to smile and be happy so soon after killing someone. The first man he had ever killed stayed with him. Each kill after got easier and easier. This last one, Colton Jackson, didn't bother him in the slightest. He just let go of him, without worry, letting him fall to his death. His smile faded away. Thinking about things like that always took his smile away.

(OOC: I won't continue the Rescudo side of the story just yet. If anyone else wants to join (or rejoin), now would be a great time.)

Waverly moved toward Baker, casually, one hand still behind his back and the other still holding a drink. He smiled down at Choo-Choo and patted her on the head and then returned his hand to its rightful place behind his back. "I saw you dance, my dear. You were lovely."

Choo-Choo smiled up at him.

"Would you do me a favour, please? Would you find your friend Marie-Louise and tell her I'd like to talk to her?"

Choo-Choo scampered off into the crowd.

Waverly watched her, his eyes smiling. Then he turned to Baker. "Whatever are we going to do with you, Mr. Baker?" He took a sip from his drink. "Did you think that you weren't being watched every minute since you got off the plane?" He nodded to a smiling middle-aged woman as she walked past. "Did you think that we'd go to the trouble of relieving you of your weapon and then just let you wander off into the night by yourself?" He glanced briefly at Baker and raised his paper cup briefly to somebody in the distance. "We don't tolerate murder in Fatatatutti," he said, "Not even when one thug murders another thug." He looked into his cup thoughtfully. "So you can't stay in Fatatatutti, of course." He glanced at Baker again, casually. "But we can't very well send you back to Aglorea to have you killed, can we?"

Choo-Choo was coming back, almost dragging Marie-Louise by the hand. The evening air was slightly chilly and Marie-Louise was wearing a windbreaker.

"Of course," Waverly continued, "your dead friend will be returned to Aglorea for a decent burial... with your fingerprints and DNA all over him, no doubt." He turned to Baker and looked him in the eye for the first time. "Any idea where we can send you?"

"Mr. Waverly." Marie-Louise was slightly out of breath.

"Please. Alex." Waverly patted Choo-Choo on the head again. "Would you do me one more favour, my dear, and tell your father how much I've enjoyed the party?" He watched as she ran off again. "Now, General," He turned to Marie-Louise. "I'm afraid Mr. Baker has been called away. Would you be so good as to escort him to the exit? There are some large men there waiting to help him find the airport."

Marie-Louise smiled up at Baker almost flirtatiously and opened her jacket slightly to show him the Glock strapped under her left breast.

Baker glanced at the gun. Of course he was followed, he thought bitterly. Not that it made a difference now. "Lead the way, general," was all he said as he gave an annoyed look at Waverly.

"Just head out casually the way you came in," Marie-Louise said. She followed him, well out of reach, watching closely in case he made a move. "We're just on a friendly trip to the airport. No need to spoil people's evening by getting your blood all over them." She smiled at an elderly couple. "And one more thing, in case you're tempted to get creative. You might think of us as a primitive backwater, but we do know about lasers. There's one tickling your left ear right now." The red dot flicked momentarily across the corner of his eye. "We may be easy-going but don't underestimate us. That's a mistake you might not get a chance to make again."

Baker led the way, unwillingly, to the car, and then to the airport. He looked at the general as he climbed out of the car. "Any idea where I'm going?" he asked.

"Any idea where I'm going?"

"Wherever the first plane is going," Marie-Louise said. "The emphasis is on going. We want you gone."

"Fair enough," Baker responded coldly. "For the record, it was nice to finally get out here and see the country. Give Sam my best regards." Baker waved a goodbye as he moved into the airport.

"For the record, it was nice to finally get out here and see the country. Give Sam my best regards."

"I'll give her a kiss for you," Marie-Louise said. "Have a nice flight. Don't come back." Not that bad a guy, she thought, product of his environment and all. She'd hover in the background until she actually saw him get on a plane, but she didn't expect any further trouble from him.

OOC: Been too busy at work to even think about NS. This post is just to let everyone know I'm still around.

HMS King Timothy
245 nautical miles from Aglorean waters

The Tolvanic battle group, now less its Comorstani allies, had taken up a routine patrol position well away from Aglorean waters. In fact Vice Admiral Lord Townsend fully expected to be ordered off Aglorea Station by week's end. However, until such time as they the battle group was orderd away it would continue to fly a full CAP and maintain standard patrol readiness levels.

The Aglorean Star

Former President travels to Kevi
Former President Chris Rescudo traveled to his old campaign hotspot in Kevi to eat out at his favorite burger restaraunt. A representative of the Star asked for a statement. "I've decided that since I've spent most of my time since the election at home, I should get out and have a bite to eat." Rescudo later returned to his Aglorea City home.

Tolvan Aggression!
A Tolvanic naval group recently approached the waters of our homeland. The Emperor immediately ordered all air stations on standby in the event they enter our waters. The naval battlegroup has since moved farther out.


239 nautical miles from Aglorean waters

The RAS Sims, a type 31 Aglorean submarine, slowly moved toward the Tolvanic naval fleet. A series of other submarines, totalling fifteen, were also moving into the area. They would go silent as they came within detectible range, and would carefully coast towards them. At the first sign of trouble, they would fire on the Tolvanic fleet.

HMS Mako (SSN-201)
Near Aglorean waters

The Mako was not one of the two Shark (http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13607892&postcount=447) class attack boats attached to CBG 23, instead it had linked up with the battle group once it was on station. Early the previous morning the sub had detached from the battle group and taken up position near Aglorean national waters. The Mako had been runing silent for nearly thirty hours and a Shark rigged for silent running was the next best thing to invisible. The sub's mission was simple, to monitor the situation off Aglorea. Of course the sub's location made it an ideal platform to launch a strike on Aglorea should the need arise. With it load out of twenty-four AGM-304 "Lance" supersonic cruise missiles, plus forty Mark 55 torpedoes and ten AGM-305 "Hammer" AShMs, she was a force to reckoned with.