NationStates Jolt Archive

They call him the Devil Himself. Gray-haired and dark-skinned, Antoine Lecroix’s ever-scowling face grows more gaunt by the day. Yet now even he seems cheerful. Applauding absently to the side of the dais, his lips manage a serene grin. It is surprisingly charming on a man more commonly seen in his combat fatigues, cigarette clenched between the teeth, submachine gun slung low and ready. Perhaps it is because his work as commander of the Republican Front Forces is nearly complete. It is a day he never thought to see. They say there would be no Revolution without the Devil Himself.

They call her the Virgin Mother – though she is decidedly neither. Leaning uneasily on a cane to keep the weight off her crippled left leg, Marine Bréton’s calm, bright eyes and perpetual smile lifting her plump cheeks give her an unearthly grace. One a concubine in the royal harem, Bréton had by force of spirit become the mother of the Revolution. With quiet words but loud actions, she had stood against the tyranny of now-former King Philippe-Michel IX without weapons save her words and inspired a nation. They say there would be no Republic without the Virgin Mother.

They call him the Poet. Meek and messy-haired, Guy Rougeard makes for a shy man with sad eyes and a disarming gift for oratory. As one of the Republican Front’s most influential and brilliant intellectuals, he had been made chairman of the Front and the effective head of the interim government. He waited for the applause to trickle to a stop before making his statement. They don’t say anything about the Poet; he speaks for himself.

The history books will call them the Founders, a holy trinity embodying the ideals of the Revolution. They’ll gloss over Lecroix’s crimes on both sides of the Revolution, Bréton’s painkiller addiction, Rougeard’s Machiavellian strongarming within the Front and his capacity for drink. Better that the children have heroes to look up to sometimes, and in this moment, all other considerations notwithstanding, these three were heroes.

The Poet’s rich bass is at odds with his slight demeanor, making for a hypnotic contrast. “The sun has broken through again. It has been long and stormy, but at last the sun has broken through. It was a decade ago that a wave of resistance rose up to topple a tyrant. At last, it is won!

“I am pleased to accept from Governor Détoile his signed acknowledgement on behalf of the provincial government of Chevallois of the Republican Front Interim Government as sole sovereign over Létat. All fourteen provinces have now recognized the Interim Government’s legitimacy and denounced Philippe-Michel and the dynasty of Orléans. While the cowardly tyrant and his retinue have fled Létat, I pray the international community not to harbor this criminal, but to seize him and return him to Létat for trial immediately. Let it be known that no one is above the law. Justice shall always triumph, even over tyrants.

“In recognition of what has been accomplished, I wish at this time to announce the imminent dissolution of the Republican Front and the Republican Front Interim Government. It is not for me to depose one tyrant merely to take his place. Thus, upon the completion and ratification of a national constitution in accordance with republican principles, I and my government shall step down and the election of the first government of the People’s Republic of Létat will take place. The time for national unity has nearly come to a close – let us never forget that the most beautiful noise to hear in the halls of government is dissent.”

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Declaration of Sovereignty of the Republican Front Interim Government to the International Community and Warrant for the Arrest of Philippe-Michel Orléans

WHEREAS Philippe-Michel Orléans, formerly King Philippe-Michelle IX of Létat, is no longer sovereign over the territories of Létat.

WHEREAS said person, in his office as Sovereign, had acquired extra-territorial assets in disposing of state funds.

WHEREAS the Republican Front Interim Government is now recognized by all provinces of Létat as the legitimate and Sovereign national government of Létat.

BE IT AFFIRMED that the RFIG is forthwith the only Sovereign authority over Létat, possessing all the powers necessary to represent that territory in affairs of government, state, commerce, and defense, and being charged with the well-being and prosperity of its people.

The RFIG thus:

SEIZES AND EXPROPRIATES all property and/or assets acquired by Philippe-Michel Orléans during his reign as king including but not limited to international embassies, consulates, dwellings, equities, and deposit accounts as being the rightful property of the Sovereign authority of Létat, and calls upon the international community to aid the RFIG in recouping these assets.

REQUESTS the immediate arrest and extradition of Philippe-Michel Orléans and his retinue back to Létat for trial and sentence.

DEMANDS that no state offer said person safe or his retinue safe harbor or asylum.

((OOC: It's fine if I RP Orleans as taking up refuge in the GWO, correct? If not, I will delete this post.))

Official Response of the Fascist Federation of the Grand World Order

King Orléans has finalized his citizenship within the Federation, and we will refuse to extradite him, as he has done nothing wrong in the Order's eyes, and we are sure that an unpleasant death awaits him if he returns to Letat. The Order also cannot emphasize strongly enough the outrage this "revolution" has caused, thus, we are refusing to recognize the newly declared government. Philippe-Michel Orléans is legally the Head of State and Government of Letat, and will remain so in exile. Extradition is non-negotiable.

City of Iron, the Grand World Order

Philippe-Michel Orléans had been granted a luxurious home near the Command Tower of the capital city of Iron Province, the disputed second most important province of the Federation. As a leader-in-exile, he had also been granted bodyguards from the Order's own military, consisting of Special Tactics Force Agents and Federal Guardsmen, as well as the Army, Marine, and Civilian Control personnel that had set up checkpoints and, in the Civilian Control's case, patrolled the streets near his home. The Iron Provincial Metropolitan Civilian Control Unit was one of the best in the Federation, competing for second with the Civilian Control Unit of Uranium Province, and second only to that of Magna Polis itself.

King Orléans had also received a warm reception from both the Count of Iron and the Baron of GWO Europe, though the Baron promptly had to return to his own city.

Today, the Count was going to "check up" on the King again. Followed by an entourage of S.T.F. Agents, Federal Guardsmen, and CCU officers, the Count made his way to the entrance of the King-in-exile's abode before knocking via the rather large metal knocker on the door.

((OOC: It's fine if I RP Orleans as taking up refuge in the GWO, correct? If not, I will delete this post.))

OoC: It does not bother me.

IC:

They called him King, and some still do...

Peeling the succulent flesh back from the bones with his knife, Philippe-Michel secures another morsel of duck as his chief financial adviser drones on, his own plate already pushed aside. "We've succeeded in transferring the approximately $2 billion you held in offshore bank accounts into GWO banks and gold bullion. We're having a bit more difficulty getting back all of the foreign equity accounts - it's a race between us and them. The same goes for bonds. So far we've pulled back another billion. We can expect a total loss on homeland assets..."

A servant emerged from the double doors of the dining room and bowed. Eager for anything the break the monotony, Philippe-Michel beckoned him forward. "Yes, what is it?"

"Your Majesty, the Count of Iron and his entourage are here and request audience."

The King's stomach turned. The remaining meat, fresh steamed vegetables, piles of buttery rice and flaky quiche no longer seemed appetizing. "Yes, very well, admit him. And see to it that a place is set out for him at the table." The servant bowed, rushing out to obey.

Philippe-Michel regretted not having worn something more impressive today. Though always sharply-attired in his personally tailored wardrobe, he could have done with his more royal garments, a few medallions and assorted accoutrement to reinforce his regal aura. Bad enough that the Count seemed to barely contain his disdain for the humiliated monarch, Philippe-Michel sought every opportunity to cling to what remained of his pride and dignity. Too late now. All he could do was muster up his courage and remind himself that this was merely a temporary arrangement.

From the kitchen doors, a team of white-liveried servers broad out a fresh place setting and swiftly arranged it next to Philippe-Michel, forcing his advisers to move over. With remarkable attention to detail and speed, they laid out the forks and knives, the glasses with just so much water or wine, and an elaborate array of food that was almost more art than meal.

And just in time, as once again the double doors of the dining room opened and a genuflecting servant announced, "To His Majesty be presented his excellency the honorable Count of Iron of the Grand World Order."

Philippe-Michel - he reminded himself, King Philippe-Michel IX of Létat - awaited, his stomach churning and mouth bitter.

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"So, he finally turned up," snorted Antoine Lecroix. "Wondered where the bastard got himself to after Ile Sainte Therèse." Three months prior to the Republican Front's internationally televised declaration of victory, Philippe-Michel had fled the country for one of his private island estates from which he had occasionally relayed orders to the remaining loyalist commanders until a Republican destroyer and a detachment of marines had put him to flight toward parts unknown. "I say let him rot there."

"We should have known he'd find a devil to make a pact with," said Guy Rougeard. "He can't be touched in the GWO. That said, I'm not happy just leaving him out there."

They call him the Penitent Saint, royal police director turned Republican interim chief of Law and Order, Maurice Chartres, interjected, "The continued liberty of him and that of Crown Prince could make way for a royalist resurgence in the future."

"Resurgence?" said Lecroix. "Aside from the couple hundred schmucks in the north who don't know the war is over, who'd want him back?"

"It's a concern," acknowledged Marine Bréton. "People are fickle, when times are rough, they'll start to get nostalgic. We need a trial."

"It's a pipe dream," said Rougeard, "he's in GWO, they're not giving him back."

"We should try."

"Impossible."

"That's never been a problem before."

For once, the Poet had no response.

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Communiqué to the Fascist Federation of the Grand World Order

In light of the crimes committed by Mr. Orléans or under his orders - which included but were not limited to embezzlement of public funds, unlawful and arbitrary detention without habeas corpus, torture, extrajudicial assassination, and rape - we sincerely hope the GWO will reconsider the prospects of extradition. You can rest assured that he shall be granted the same justice that would be accorded anyone suspected of a crime in our nation, in accordance with the Constitution soon to be ratified. As this government has been installed by the popular will of the people it rules and represents, we hope you shall reconsider your decision to withhold recognition. We would be willing to discuss further the terms of extradition and the conditions for national recognition via meeting of bilateral negations if possible.

--Republican Front Interim Government,
Guy Rougeard, Acting Head of State and Government of Létat

Philippe-Michel's Home, City of Iron

The Count and the S.T.F. Agents entered the house, while the Federal Guardsmen and CCU Officers stayed outside to monitor the estate's perimeter, in case someone might try to sneak in. The S.T.F. Agents, however, were acting somewhat like an Honor Guard. They were clad in Medium-grade S.T.F. Uniforms (http://s227.photobucket.com/albums/dd143/Mr_Flylice/?action=view&current=stfagents.jpg). None of them made sounds other than an occasional deep breath. The Agents of the S.T.F. were internationally known both for their skill and brutality. Each man had been bred for their duty, spending 19 years and 10 months in training before being shipped off to Uranium and Socal Provinces to face a live fire wargame that lasted two months, in the ruins of New York (Uranium Province) or Los Angeles (Socal Province). Each Province received 25,000 testees, but by the end of the test, only 250 on average would come out alive. In past wars of the GWO's bloody history, reports of S.T.F. Agents cannibalizing wounded enemies wasn't uncommon at all. However, they practiced a great deal of discipline and were perhaps some of the best soldiers a person could have with them. They could either be the greatest, most loyal men, or they could be terrifying butchers.

The Count was in his formal attire, removing his military-style officer's cap as he entered. He looked more like a military officer at a formal event than a political leader. However, such was the norm in the Order's government. On his uniform's collar were two pins displaying the Fasces, one of the symbols of Fascism. His uniform was pristinely clean and black,

He sat down across from the King, and set the demands from the new Letat government on the table before stating, "These revolutionaries sure can be silly. They're demanding that we turn you over, but clearly we're not going to do that. Sir Willis and his lot should be compiling a reply to them sometime soon. However, this does create a bit of a security concern," he stopped as he straightened his tie. He had a slight English accent to complement his German one. Iron Province covered much of Germany, after all. "Some of our fellows in the DRI believe that assassins might start showing up. As you have had experience with the revolutionaries, I would like to ask you some questions about their operating procedures. This would further help us thwart any plans they have to spill blood in our country."

Outside one of the windows, one of the huge 800mm supercannons was visible far off in the distance, pointing upwards at an angle, surrounded by smaller artillery weaponry. Even they were considered large, as they could be seen from the window. And someone who knew the GWO Defense System or lived near an installation knew there were even more weapons, even though they seemed invisible from a distance. Nations belonging to ODECON and Communist International (Comintern) recently had seen fit to invade parts of the Federation, causing the entire nation to go into wartime status. The cannon was a symbol of this. Normally, cannons like it were laid down horizontally and covered with tarps. As the Count finished his sentence, he glanced out the window and sighed. Being the Count of one of the most powerful Provinces meant he constantly had to worry about his people's security. Satellites and whatnot would easily give him warning of an incoming fleet, but that didn't mean he didn't worry. As far as he knew, there could be a Leistungi, Sumgaian, or Baltic submarine sitting off the coast, and that submarine could very well launch a cruise missile right into his bedroom.


To: Herr Rougeard
From: The Grand World Order Office of Foreign Affairs

And we're sure that each member of the "Revolution" should be tried for murder, manslaughter, treason, destruction of private, public, and government property, theft of said property, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, assault and battery, and God knows what else.

(OoC: Would Philippe-Michel's location be known internationally and to what extent? I.E. - might it be known that he's in Iron Province but not at a particular location or what?)

IC:

Philippe-Michel looked over the series of Rebel communiqués, including the transcript of the internationally televised "Victory address," considering what the Count had asked. In truth, he didn't know what would happen to him if he were to find himself in a rebel court, but he thought of his late elder son, Paul, and the governor of the Fabien province. The two had only stepped out of the limousine that had taken Paul to the governor's mansion from the airport when a van plowed through a police barricade, crushing one of the prince's bodyguards against the outer wall. Masked gunmen clambered out and slew the prince and governor in a hail of submachine gun fire. Perhaps he would not even be lucky enough for such a swift death.

No, he thought, that's not going to happen any time soon. "I doubt even the Rebels would be foolish enough to try sending a military expedition to claim me. I don't see how they could..." he trailed off, thinking. With him had come an entourage of nearly a hundred, plus thousands more, mostly loyalist military officers and their families who had trickled out of Létat as the revolution neared its end. They formed a Létatian community in exile here, but - did he really know? - how many were true loyalists? If the Republicans had slipped in sleepers among the officers.

"I think the real concern would be agents hiding out as loyalists, hoping for a chance to eliminate myself or Martin-Henri," - the twenty year old crown Prince and sole heir to the throne now studied at one of GWO's finest universities - "they may be awaiting secret orders, but the Rebels have been known to employ time tables or attacks of opportunity. I think it might be best to give everyone who came with me a thorough intelligence run-down, double-check everything." His eyes flitted to the black-clad bruisers armed with truncheons at each corner of the room, mercenaries hired as personal muscle, "Let's look at the staff too, everyone." He hoped he wasn't being too paranoid.

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Bounty Posted for the Arrest of Philippe-Michel Orléans

Pursuant to the charges laid out in the Arrest Warrant of Philippe-Michel Orléans, and so as to reinforce the urgency of his capture and return to Létat, the Republican Front Interim Government of the People's Republic of Létat shall guarantee a reward of no less than USD 50 million for the live capture of Philippe-Michel Orléans and USD 20 million for the live capture of his son, Martin-Henri Orléans.

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Guy Rougeard drummed anxiously on the phone.

"What's up?" asked Maurice Chartres.

"I'm waiting for a call from Lecroix, our inside man is supposed to report today."

"Who?"

"We have a guy keeping an eye on Orléans, feeding us a bit of information, he has to be careful, but the stuff we get seems to be good so far."

"You're not concerned he'll be caught?"

Rougeard chuckled. "My friend, our man is someone the good king himself wouldn't permit them to question... he'll be just fine."

((OOC: It is internationally known that he's in Iron Province; Philippe-Michel's exact location would require some on-ground intel gathering, but it's not exactly a secret.))

Philippe-Michel's Home, City of Iron

"Understood. We can have hidden cameras, microphones, and phone taps in place on everyone you wish. I also am going to step up Civilian Control patrols in the area. To stave off attacks against you in-transit, I've arranged for two Grizzly APCs (http://grizzlyapc.com/) filled with heavier CCU units, plus however many cruisers may be present, to follow you around. The same accommodations are planned for Prince Martin-Henri. Additionally, you may choose to purchase and carry firearms for both yourself and your security detail," the Count fished out a small booklet containing the legalities of owning a firearm in the GWO. Gun laws were lax, permitting an average citizen to own even assault rifles, but not after extensive background checks, ballistic registration, and limits on the types of ammunition purchased among other things (I.e., no armor-piercing rounds without special licenses, no magazines with more than 50 rounds without a license, etc). However, licenses were obtainable for heavier weapons, such as explosives, machine guns, et cetera. These were extremely hard to get, however. But the King was a special case. Unfortunately, this meant that the rebels could have a sympathizer purchase anything ranging from a Glock 18 to an AK-47 to a GR-1.

The Count, with a slightly worried tone, said, "This whole situation does remind me of our last Grand Commander, Griffith Artiche, Junior."

The last Head of State, Griffith Artiche, Junior to everyone but GRIFFITH-I to the Genome Protocol, was killed by a Liberty Confederation sniper named Nathan Slusher while inspecting a battalion of S.T.F. Agents. In perhaps the most secure complex of the world (The Spire), an Anarcho-Communist managed to shoot the Grand Commander in the head with an SVD Dragunov. The S.T.F. Agents present avenged the Grand Commander the next day by gunning Nathan and a group of rebels down at a funeral, acting on the intelligence given by an informant. After that though, the Agents killed themselves in front of the Spire to avenge their honor.

"Dreadful!" exclaimed Philippe-Michel upon hearing the story. Indeed, the Rebels had demonstrated an irritating capacity to win over unexpected allies. More than one provincial governor had turned coat all too willingly. Hell, Antoine Lecroix had distinguished himself as a soldier and an effective, merciless riot-suppressor before becoming the Revolution's foremost war hero. "There are no safe places anymore..."

"All right, I don't want anyone on these grounds without knowing about it - cameras outside, infrared tracking inside. As for the refugees, keep an eye on them. Don't let anyone get their hands on a firearm without having me personally clear it first." He lowered his voice,"I think we need to keep an eye on the staff in here too, especially the servants. Working types were always partial to the rebels. Keep an eye on their private communications, e-mail, phone." He glanced around the table at his financial advisory team, then back to the Count, "Keep an eye on everyone - the only thing I don't want tapped are my business communications, even I have secrets, Excellency."

He waved a hand at the advisers, signaling them to pack their affairs and leave, then turned back to the Count, "Can it be done? How much danger am I in?"

Extract from The Republican, Létatian nationwide weekly newspaper

Convention completes Constitution

"We, the people of Létat, affirm our supreme sovereignty over the people and soil of Létat, and do hereby entrust our authority to this Constitution as the Highest Law of Létat, in order to ensure security and tranquility, peace and prosperity, justice and liberty for ourselves and our posterity."

So reads the preamble of the Létatian Constitution finalized this week by the Constitutional Convention for the Republic. The document establishes the "People's Republic of Létat," permanently replacing the monarchy with a bicameral legislature and an executive branch.

According to this document, the legislature will be divided into two houses, the Senate and the National Assembly. The Senate will be comprised of three representatives selected by each provincial government in the manner it sees fit. The National Assembly will be directly elected by the people, representing the various regions in proportion to population. Legislation will be initiated by the first house and passed onto the second by a qualified majority vote. The second house will modify and then vote to pass the legislation onto the President.

Every five years, the people of Létat will elect a President to oversee the administration of the Létatian government and hold a veto over all legislation. He or she shall be permitted a single chance for reelection. Both the houses of legislature and the President shall appoint a national judicial system to oversee the enforcement of laws and oversee the implementation of the Constitution.

A bill of rights ensures citizens freedom of speech, press, assembly, and belief. It likewise guarantees their freedom from arbitrary detention and torture. Capital punishment shall be abolished.

Before the new Constitution goes into force, it must be ratified by the Constitutional councils in each province. The Interim Government has expressed confidence that it will be ratified swiftly: "The Convention was written in collaboration with representatives from the provincial councils and we ultimately established a good deal of consensus," said RFIG spokeswoman Dorette Agneau, "People want to see a permanent government put in place."

Once the Constitution has been fully ratified, RFIG claims it will dissolve the Republican Front and hold elections within five weeks. Commentators have already begun projecting the results - most placing Guy Rougeard or Marine Bréton as likely presidents, with Antoine Lecroix as a close third.

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Iron Province

Maréchal Etienne Baptiste, Supreme Commander of the Royal Armed Forces, huffed. The Republican's lead story had been picked up in a few of the internationally-read venues.

"Not good," he mumbled to himself. The longer the RFIG stayed in power, the more institutions they put in place, the more legitimate they would become. The window for action was closing. He knew something more would need to be done than Philippe-Michel's current strategy of simply hiding behind the Order's aegis. He began to devise a plan...

From: Helena Draskovic, Acting Secretary to the Crown.
To: His Excellency, Guy Rougeard, Acting Head of State for Letat.
Re: Recognition and diplomatic exchange.

Your Excellency,

Let us be frank, as befits people of honour. The Empire of New Chalcedon deplores official corruption wherever it can be found, and has seen plenty of it in the person of the ex-King. Provided that the new government is prepared to pledge not to attempt destabilisation of the Empire's political order, the Empire is prepared to grant recognition of the new Republic of Letat as the sole sovereign force, and to accredit a diplomatic representative to represent the Empire's interests in Letat.

Regards,

Helena Draskovic
Acting Secretary to the Crown.

((OOC: My apologies for not being able to post today, I will make sure to post tomorrow.))

From: Helena Draskovic, Acting Secretary to the Crown.
To: His Excellency, Guy Rougeard, Acting Head of State for Letat.
Re: Recognition and diplomatic exchange.

Your Excellency,

Let us be frank, as befits people of honour. The Empire of New Chalcedon deplores official corruption wherever it can be found, and has seen plenty of it in the person of the ex-King. Provided that the new government is prepared to pledge not to attempt destabilisation of the Empire's political order, the Empire is prepared to grant recognition of the new Republic of Letat as the sole sovereign force, and to accredit a diplomatic representative to represent the Empire's interests in Letat.

Regards,

Helena Draskovic
Acting Secretary to the Crown.

From: Guy Rougeard, Acting Head of State for Létat
To: Acting Secretary to the Crown, the Honorable Madame Helena Draskovic

Re: Recognition and Diplomatic Exchange

Honorable Madame Draskovic,

The Republic harbors no ill-will towards New Chalcedon nor her emperor, and hopes to establish peaceable relations founded upon mutual trust and goodwill. We welcome your offer of recognition and look forward to establishing permanent bilateral relations. An interim ambassador shall be appointed to New Chalcedon, until such time as a representative may be appointed by a permanent government.

-Sincerely,
Guy Rougeard, Acting Head of State of the Republican Front Interim Government.

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Op-Ed from The Republican

Back to the Barricades: Constitutional ratification stopped at the last royal holdout

The Constitution put forth by the Constitutional Convention for the Republic has met universal acclaim and swiftly passed through the provincial councils in eight of the fourteen provinces. Ten labormarks* if you can guess which six provinces are holding out. If you guessed the "Ancien Régime" provinces ruled by governors appointed by ex-King but still-buffoon Philippe-Michel IX, consider this an IOU (though don't expect me to pay you anytime soon!). Four have yet to even submit the document to the Provincial Constitutional Councils for a proper vote. Meanwhile, in Chevallois and Blécieux, Governors Détoile and Beaufrère have announced they may veto constitution despite it having received their respective councils' stamps of approval.

Of course, all are waiting on Détoile, as the foremost monarchist bootlick and therefore de facto chief of those with vestiges of royalism, to give the document his okay. "We cannot have managing bureaucrats who've never left Ville-Sur-le-Champs dictating the lives of people in the hills of Chevallois. I'm concerned that creating such a central authority will preclude provincial governments from overseeing their territories in a manner befitting local particularities."

First off, let me say what everyone is thinking anyway. "Managing bureaucrats?" He never seemed to mind when it was an overbearing tyrant dictating lives from Ville-Sur-le-Champs! What government can be more centralized than that of an absolute tyrant? Let alone the fact that "managing bureaucrats" will probably settle in the RFIG's temporary seat at Paname rather than the old royal capital.

As for his concerns about "provincial autonomy," I refer you to Mme Dorette Agneau's response: "The document does provide for a considerable amount of local autonomy, very few impositions are made on the composition of provincial governments." Let me go further - not only does the new Constitution permit provincial governors to simply appoint Senators if they wish, it provides no guidelines whatsover for how provincial governments are to structure themselves. Outside of being compelled to follow certain restrictions - such as the ban on torture to extract confessions and capital punishment - Détoile and his kin would easily be able to accumulate for themselves whatever amount of power makes them comfortable.

If anything, it is Republicans who should reject the Constitution, for not being firm enough in sounding our demand for democracy for all Létatians. The tyrants and their cronies get off too easy. M Détoile has said he will render a final decision on Saturday. If he rejects the Constitution, perhaps the Front should reject him. Détoile may be old, but surely he can still remember why the other 8 provinces no longer have royal governors.

-Solidarity!
Hugh Lenez, Editor

*Létatian currency.

((OOC: My apologies for not being able to post today, I will make sure to post tomorrow.))

OoC: As they say in France, Ce n'est pas grave.

Basil II Memorial Airport
Constantinopolis Secundus

Some call him a meddler....The man boarding the chartered jet looked to be too young to have graduated college, let alone represent the Empire. Yet 'Ambassador' was indeed his title - he was Marius Romas, the newly-accredited Imperial Ambassador to Letat, and a man with an unusual reputation for ruthlessness, despite his youth.

He sat back in his chair as the plane began taxiing for takeoff to the capital of Letat.

"Dreadful!" exclaimed Philippe-Michel upon hearing the story. Indeed, the Rebels had demonstrated an irritating capacity to win over unexpected allies. More than one provincial governor had turned coat all too willingly. Hell, Antoine Lecroix had distinguished himself as a soldier and an effective, merciless riot-suppressor before becoming the Revolution's foremost war hero. "There are no safe places anymore..."

"All right, I don't want anyone on these grounds without knowing about it - cameras outside, infrared tracking inside. As for the refugees, keep an eye on them. Don't let anyone get their hands on a firearm without having me personally clear it first." He lowered his voice,"I think we need to keep an eye on the staff in here too, especially the servants. Working types were always partial to the rebels. Keep an eye on their private communications, e-mail, phone." He glanced around the table at his financial advisory team, then back to the Count, "Keep an eye on everyone - the only thing I don't want tapped are my business communications, even I have secrets, Excellency."

He waved a hand at the advisers, signaling them to pack their affairs and leave, then turned back to the Count, "Can it be done? How much danger am I in?"

"Understood," the Count replied before fiddling around with his PDA. "My men are already heading out to perform their duties. The European Subdivision of the National Cybersecurity Division has also been cleared by the Baron to assist. If you wish, we can also have an SFOD-APS unit stay in the house. SFOD-APS is one of our Special Forces units, and the initials stand for Special Forces Operations Detachment, Advanced Paradrop Service. They belong to the Army, and are excellent paratroopers and counter-terrorists. They often compete with the Marine Fallschirmjaegers, but it's all friendly. The particular unit I'm intending to station here was deployed to Petroleum to help fight the Stoklomolvi communists. It is commanded by Lieutenant Hans Blitzer."

Then the Count folded his hands and thought for a moment. "If we pull this off right, this can turn out beneficial. Sending assassins to kill another country's citizens is an act of war, and if they did so it would permit us to help you regain control without meddlers, other than our allies of course. As for the threat to your life, we don't think that assassins will be much of a problem, so long as protocols are followed by all of us. Unfortunately, we have to always be lucky. They only have to get lucky once."

The Count's PDA started beeping, indicating he had received a message. He glanced over it before his eyes widened and he gasped in joy. "It appears that the United States of Allanea have dropped out of the force attacking our capital! This is great news! Out of all of the fleets swarmed around Magna Polis, theirs was the most troublesome."

Official CSSA Communication

The Constitutional Sovereignty of Saevitian Archipelago is uneasy about the recent victory of an anti-monarchist revolutionary group within Létat. Nonetheless, while we may not agree with the exact politics of the group that has seized power, we are willing to extend official recognition to the new government once it has established itself fully and proven itself capable of adequately ruling and consolidating control over Létat. Recognition will thus be evaluated twelve months after a full (i.e. not provisional or interim) government is created.

Should the official recognition of the Saevitian Government be extended at that time, we would be willing to establish deeper diplomatic relations, should the new government be sympathetic to such relations and request them in turn from the CSSA. Until then, we wish the interim government of Létat luck in its undoubtedly difficult endeavours.

Gerard Karajan
Sir Gerard Karajan
Crown Secretary for Foreign Affairs
9th Earl of Saint Thomas Island, etc., etc.

OoC: Aye! Much to respond to.... here we go!

Territory of Létat

Transcript from Guy Rougeard's Easter 2009 speech commemorating the final ratification of the national constitution

Good morning.

Some say the Revolution started on May 1st, 1998, in a factory not far from here in Paname, but we know its roots extend through time to every Létatian who knew the weight of Orléanic tyranny, who wished to know a life free from compulsion and terror. Some will say the Revolution ended today, in April 12th, 2009, but its spirit will survive so long as we breathe. For, having known the burden, who would take it up again?

But indeed, though this moment is not the end of our Revolution, it is a moment to shine through history. What we have worked for has come to pass - a Constitution for a united People's Republic of Létat, establishing a government of the governed, has been ratified by all fourteen provinces. The Republic now passes from the ephemeral realm of dream into the substantial. Let us grasp it, let us never surrender it!

Thus, as acting chairman of the Republican Front and with the consent of the governing council, I hereby dissolve that body's political wing to make way for independent parties reflecting the views of the body-politic. Further, I hereby announce that elections shall be held no less than five weeks from today to compose and establish a national government and legislature. Upon the installation of the new government, the Interim Government shall dissolve and the Republican Front shall be consigned to history. It shall be the era of yourselves, my fellow citizens, it shall be the era not of a man or a monarch but of the Nation!

Around the world, Easter is a day of celebration for Christians. In Létat, let it be a day of celebration for all with and without faith of any sort. Though the Revolution is forever, today we see it shining through.

Have a happy Easter.

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Official CSSA Communication

The Constitutional Sovereignty of Saevitian Archipelago is uneasy about the recent victory of an anti-monarchist revolutionary group within Létat. Nonetheless, while we may not agree with the exact politics of the group that has seized power, we are willing to extend official recognition to the new government once it has established itself fully and proven itself capable of adequately ruling and consolidating control over Létat. Recognition will thus be evaluated twelve months after a full (i.e. not provisional or interim) government is created.

Should the official recognition of the Saevitian Government be extended at that time, we would be willing to establish deeper diplomatic relations, should the new government be sympathetic to such relations and request them in turn from the CSSA. Until then, we wish the interim government of Létat luck in its undoubtedly difficult endeavours.

Gerard Karajan
Sir Gerard Karajan
Crown Secretary for Foreign Affairs
9th Earl of Saint Thomas Island, etc., etc.
Today 02:18

From: Yves Mainlevé, Acting Interim Minister of Foreign Affairs
To: The Honorable Sir Gerard Karajan

We indeed look forward to the possibility of friendly relations, and the eventual recognition of the Létatian government. Further, we invite representatives of Saint Clair Island to observe the elections to be held in Létat, to attest to their legitimacy if they so wish.

Cordially yours,
~~Yves Mainlevé
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Basil II Memorial Airport
Constantinopolis Secundus

Some call him a meddler....The man boarding the chartered jet looked to be too young to have graduated college, let alone represent the Empire. Yet 'Ambassador' was indeed his title - he was Marius Romas, the newly-accredited Imperial Ambassador to Letat, and a man with an unusual reputation for ruthlessness, despite his youth.

He sat back in his chair as the plane began taxiing for takeoff to the capital of Letat.

They call him the Tall Man because he is so short. A robust, round man of no more than five feet, Yves Mainlevé's jolly demeanor and voluminous, chortling speech give him a disarmingly friendly presence. The Devil Himself occasionally joked that the Tall Man, "could sell you anything. You knew for the life of you you didn't need it, you don't need it, you'll never need it, but talk to Yves and you'll want to buy it and you won't even regret it afterward."

"Bastards could've stayed here," he grumbled as the car pulled into Ville-Sur-le-Champs. Still officially the capital, Ville-Sur-le-Champs had the only airport in the nation capable of landing anything larger than a paper airplane. "Four hour drive here. Four hours back. Hope this Romas bastard makes for good conversation, or its going to be a dull ride back to Paname."

The slim, dark-eyed woman sitting across from him shifted a bit, "You know, Yves - "

"I know, not very diplomatic of me. Don't worry. I'll manage with this bullshit. Just fucking hate it. It's a shame I'm the best."

The woman, soon to be ambassador to New Chalcedon, only rolled her eyes.

"Bah, well he can't be worse than you."

The car pulled up to the hastily-renamed Revolutionary Airfield, an hour of banal small-talk remaining before the arrival of Marius Romas's plane.

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Grand World Order, Iron Province

"Understood," the Count replied before fiddling around with his PDA. "My men are already heading out to perform their duties. The European Subdivision of the National Cybersecurity Division has also been cleared by the Baron to assist. If you wish, we can also have an SFOD-APS unit stay in the house. SFOD-APS is one of our Special Forces units, and the initials stand for Special Forces Operations Detachment, Advanced Paradrop Service. They belong to the Army, and are excellent paratroopers and counter-terrorists. They often compete with the Marine Fallschirmjaegers, but it's all friendly. The particular unit I'm intending to station here was deployed to Petroleum to help fight the Stoklomolvi communists. It is commanded by Lieutenant Hans Blitzer."

Then the Count folded his hands and thought for a moment. "If we pull this off right, this can turn out beneficial. Sending assassins to kill another country's citizens is an act of war, and if they did so it would permit us to help you regain control without meddlers, other than our allies of course. As for the threat to your life, we don't think that assassins will be much of a problem, so long as protocols are followed by all of us. Unfortunately, we have to always be lucky. They only have to get lucky once."

The Count's PDA started beeping, indicating he had received a message. He glanced over it before his eyes widened and he gasped in joy. "It appears that the United States of Allanea have dropped out of the force attacking our capital! This is great news! Out of all of the fleets swarmed around Magna Polis, theirs was the most troublesome."

"Excellent," indeed, Philippe-Michel was sympathetic for good reason. Imagine the embarrassment to have to flee one war only to find himself captured in another! And now doubt the meddling ODECON democrats would all-too-gleefully hand him over to the Rebels for international humiliation.

"As for Blitzer's men, I would not wish to burden, but every element of security is certainly welcome. I know few who would prefer death to caution." Unfortunately, those few were rebels.

Though the duck was only half-finished, Philippe-Michel signaled to a servant to take the plate away and clean off the table. Standing up, he turned to the Count, "I am afraid I must take my leave of you, Excellency, my financial advisers and I must finish taking stock of my assets. These troublesome rebels have tried to make hell - something of a profession of theirs, I've found. Of course, they're handy with a garage-built bomb, but when it comes to my hedged equity investments I dare say they're out of their league." He offered a courteous nod, "In any case, Excellency, I bid you good day."

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Iron Province

Memorandum
To: His Majesty, the King Philippe-Michel IX of Létat, of the House of Orléans.
From: His Majesty's faithful subject, Maréchal Etienne Baptiste
Subject: Possible Contingency Outline

Majesty, the longer we permit the Rebels to operate as a "government" the greater the legitimacy they shall accumulate. Nonetheless, as long as yourself or your son survive, doubt shall be cast upon their claims to legitimacy. We must capitalize on this and strike back.

I remind you that a community of no less than three thousand Létatian refugee families has trickled into GWO so far. As the majority of these are families of loyal soldiers, they present us with a unique opportunity. Therefore, I propose the following:

[1] - The integrity of the Létatian community-in-exile must be maintained.
[2] - Every male capable of military service must be immediately reinstated as part of a military force to reinstate the monarchy and legitimate government of Létat. Assuming this includes all persons from 16-65, this will permit us immediate access to 4,000 soldiers.
[3] - We must encourage emigration of loyalists from Létat to the GWO to continue to supplement our forces.
[4] - We must take advantage of our location within a premier military power to hone and equip our forces to the best of our ability.
[5] - Privately accrued Royal funds must be directed with the purpose of equipping and training our forces or generating revenue to continue our training operations.

I hope Your Majesty shall consider these recommendations seriously and confer them on to the Grand World Order if it so please you.

Historian's note - Philippe-Michel was quite taken by the idea and immediately submitted it for the GWO's approval having only skimmed the memorandum. One wonders how well Baptiste knew the deposed King's personality as this "Reestablishment Brigade" swiftly became more or less Baptiste's private army.

Philippe-Michels' Home, Iron Province

"Very well. Blitzer's team should be here within a few hours. If you need anything, feel free to call me," stated the Count as he straightened his uniform. He then left, along with the S.T.F. Agents protecting him.

When he arrived at the Iron Provincial Control Tower, he hurried back up to his office where he spent most of his time. It couldn't be said that the office wasn't decorated, as it was. However, the decoration of the office was more political than personal, with various flags around the room. The flags included the GWO Flag, the Nazi Germany flag, Fascist Italy's flag, Vichy France's flag, and of course, the Imperial Fascist Alliance's flag (http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd143/Mr_Flylice/IFAflag.png).



As for the request to make the Reestablishment Brigade, it was promptly accepted.

Several hours later, Philippe-Michel's home

A pair of Stryker APCs had pulled up in front of the King's home. Quickly, a group of men sporting GWO combat uniforms disembarked, with various weapons slung over their backs. Each man carried a duffel bag, which contained their electronics and extra equipment. Currently, they were wearing black berets with the Army emblem sewn on, but they had their helmets, AGMOEDs, and balaclavas in their duffel bags. The leader of the group led everyone to the door before utilizing the knocker. He had blue eyes, a blond buzzcut, and a few minor scars around his face (Though one was actually on his face). He had a cleft on his chin and filled in a typical "GI Joe" sort of appearance. Whoever answered the door would also notice the armpatch on his right arm, showing the logo of the APS. To further denote his identity, the logo sported a ribbon going across the bottom saying "ADVANCED PARADROP SERVICE" and another one over the top saying "FEDERAL ARMY." His MOLLE vest was organized in a Cross-Draw fashion, with an MI-R357 revolver sitting in his vest-mounted holster. A nametag had been sewn above the utility pouch on his right breast, with "BLITZER" in gray. Opposite of it was a tag saying "FEDERAL ARMY" again. It would take less than a second to realize who he was.

Control Tower, Iron Province, GWO

They call him the Maréchal, the title bestowed upon the Supreme Commander of the Royal Military. At nearly two meters, Etienne Baptiste dwarfs most other men, and his gold-and-saffron uniform, decorated with the royal chrysanthemum and crossed halberds is a crisp reminder of the monarch's glory. Now in his mid-sixties, his skin has taken on the quality of tree-bark: tanned, creased, but tough, and his bright-green eyes still shine through as fiercely as ever. His mind is quick, his body honed - he is a man of great clarity and limited concern for sentiment.

It had been easy to convince the dear King to form the Reestablishment Brigade, easier still to convince him to grant the Maréchal free reign over its formation and conduct. The paranoid, limp monarch was happy to simply remain in his home and watch his net worth rise as he invested in lucrative GWO corporations. Now he went to the Control Tower under the monarch's easily gleaned orders to finalize the details of the Brigade's establishment, and to hopefully secure cooperation from the Grand World Order.

OoC: Out of curiosity, do the Count of Iron and other nobles of the GWO receive their titles by inheritance or merit?

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Létat

Notice on the Treatment of Prisoners of War
From - the Office of the Chairman of the Interim Government

At present, some 70,000 surrendered loyalist troops are being kept in prison camps throughout Létat. Pursuant to the end of civil war, it is the policy of Interim Government to normalize and release these prisoners. The following policies are to govern the treatment of all PoWs:


Prisoners of War shall be interned in their provinces of origin, to be understood as the province where they were born or possess a permanent residence, per their choice.
Prisoners of War shall be permitted limited contact with families on weekends, to be supervised. They shall be permitted to receive mail and gifts; however, these shall be screened by guards.
Prisoners of War may be released upon taking an oath of loyalty to the People's Republic as follows: "I [full name], hereby acknowledge the Constitution of the People's Republic of Létat as the highest legal authority of Létat, and acknowledge the People's Republic as the sole legitimate and sovereign government of Létat. I shall not take up arms to forcibly remove this government, nor shall I collaborate with enemies foreign or domestic attempting to compel or remove this government by violence." Note that in particular cases, prisoners of war may still be subject to criminal prosecution and sentence.
Prisoners of War who will not take the oath will be permitted to leave Létatian territory with any family willing to accompany them if they so wish. They shall be subject to arrest upon return to Létatian territory unless they take the aforementioned oath. The People's Republic will see to their safe dispatch to whatever location they desire.
Prisoners of War still interned shall be employed for reconstruction efforts. A remittance of 1 labormark per day shall be paid to the family member of their choice, or stored in an account to be granted to said Prisoner at the time of their release. Deported prisoners shall not receive the benefit of said account.

((OOC: The original Counts and Barons were appointed for merit, though if one dies, the heir is screened by various organizations to make sure they would know what they're doing, as well as how loyal they might be. If the Grand Commander wills it, he can have a new Count promoted, usually from the ranks of the GWO Military. Of course, currently he's busy dealing with a bunch of fleets back in Magna Polis.))

Iron Provincial Control Tower

The Maréchal was promptly greeted entering the building. For security precautions, he had to walk through a metal detector and have a further "wand check" to look for concentrated metal. After that, three ICCU officers escorted him to the Count's office. The building was positively swarming with CCU officers, State Troopers, military officers, and various personnel either involved with security, leadership, or accounting. Upon entering the office, one of the officers announced, "Sir, the Maréchal of Létat has arrived."

The Count stood up and offered his hand to Etienne before introducing himself. "I am Count Wilhelm Krieger of Iron Province, pleased to meet you." He dismissed the CCU guards, sitting behind his oak desk.

"The pleasure is mine, Excellency. I hope we might cooperate amicably. Indeed, I think you and I are men of a similar mold, apart from others. Even His Majesty does not understand." He seated himself across from the Count. "Do not mistake me. I am His Majesty's loyal servant, but he must be... coaxed to come to the correct decisions. He does not have clarity. He does not have the needed faith, you understand? He is a man of intellect, but not of boldness - and my people need both, Excellency, they need both.

"That is why I have come to you to discuss the Reestablishment Brigade, because I know that you are of the right character. Perhaps the Order instills it in your people, perhaps you are unique, but nonetheless - you can help me help him.

"A ruler's image reflects across his people you know. His Majesty's softness - I see it in the slouching whiners lugging rifles on the drill fields each day. The days I spend putting them through drill, or physical training, or military training all seem to come to naught. It is not the knowledge they lack - it is the character they lack.

"Your men have that character, Lord Krieger, and I feel for the good of my people I must beg the privilege of having them assist us more directly. The Létatians need the fat burned from their bones, the softness sliced from their souls. You know as well as I do, Count, that it is not a tragedy for a man to die - it is only a tragedy that he go on living for mere fear of death..."

Revolutionary Airfield
Ville-Sur-le-Champs

The aircraft landed with little fuss, and a young man disembarked from it, followed by five other people. He looked around, spotted Mainlevé and his companion and made a beeline to them.

"I take it that you are the meeting party? I am Marius Romas, the appointed Ambassador for His Imperial and Serene Majesty. If either of you are the Letatian Ambassador to Constantinopolis Secundus, the chartered aircraft is at your disposal to take you swiftly and safely to the Imperial capital, where an Embassy building has been prepared for you to take up residence. "Oh, by the by, the Fifth Bureau has informed me that the exiled King is creating a private military force, no doubt to challenge your rule."

"Ha! The goons!" blurted Mainlevé, before it occurred to him that it wasn't terribly formal. He did his best to recover, "I appreciate the information Monsieur Romas; I'll be certain the Chairman gets a briefing. Ha... I suppose the good king has nothing better to do with his time. I tell you, if it were up to me I'd put one right between the eyes." He caught himself again, "Allow me to present to you Madame Héloise Clichy, appointed ambassador to New Chalcedon for at least the next five weeks."

The meek woman curtsied, as unsure as anyone in the inexperienced interim government of what counted as proper protocol. "I am pleased to meet you Monsieur, I hope to serve longer than five weeks to be sure."

"Héloise, wait for the rest of the staff to gather and take up the kind ambassador's offer to take this aircraft back to New Chalcedon. Your Excellency, I pray you to step this way to the limousine - it will take us back to the real capital, at Paname. It's a bit of a drive. If the liars building it are to be believed, the Paname airfield should finally be up and running in the week."

He pulled open the door for Romas, then suddenly swore. Walking around to the front of the vehicle, he yanked a small slip of paper from under one of the wipers. "Who put this here?" he demanded. "Did you see anyone?" he asked the chauffeur, who looked up from his copy of The Republican ever so briefly to shake his head. "Damn! I can't believe this - this country is unbelievable." He stepped inside the vehicle finally, uncrumpling the paper just long enough that Romas can see it reads - VOTE DSP - ELECT BRETON PRESIDENT. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=14703556)

Revolutionary Airfield
Ville-Sur-le-Champs

Romas had one piece of advice for Mme. Clichy. "Mme. Ambassador, I would advise that you lay low for a few weeks after arrival - the Empire is in civil war (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=590114) after our ex-Emperor didn't accept his impeachment graciously. Oh, and be nice to Her Majesty: she could use a friend about now."

Upon joining Mainlevé at his vehicle, he smiled at the Minister's expostulation.

"Welcome to democracy, M'seiur Mainlevé. It's tiresome, it's inconvenient, and I wouldn't have it any other way And who trusts liars in the first place, anyway?"