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Southron columbia

Middle predor

A Chance at Redemption

Secretary of State Petyr Tunt mulled over the events of the past few months, and the risk he had undertaken in departing for Kromkarie. An undertaken he had insisted upon, nonetheless, and one that both the President and the Vice President had vehemently opposed. The civil war had endangered the lives of those he had brought with him, risked the security of the Confederacy, and may or may not have cost DeWitt the re-election. Though now, he had another chance. A chance of redemption, and this time, offered by DeWitt to assure that a diplomatic channel was opened with adherents of tradition and authority.

The Predorian kingdom seemed a relic, of a time before flying battleships and destroyers, and an age not brought on by the conquest of the Greybacks. It had a monarch in a region rapidly developing on the enrichment of democracy and liberty, building the foundations for a free world. The Internationale would be the vanguard, the heart of the Free World, and it was up to the age-old nobility in this course of action. Tunt understood, ultimately, their apprehension of such... liberal views, and the effect it would have on their statuses and place in that hierarchy. A treacherous resistance in the back of the mind. In time, the Predorians will understand democracy. They will understand that they have nothing to lose... but their chains.

“We’re reading, Mr. Secretary,” Ambassador Markus Laszlow, reassigned at the new High Commissioner and Ambassador for the Confederate States Diplomatic Mission to Middle Predor. Trailing closely behind him were other men, clad in distinct fatigues. Lt. Gilmer and another—an Agent Kopkow, from Internal Affairs. Security was ramped up, obviously, ever since their failure in Kromkarie. The President would take no chances, certain that no harm would ever come to one of his cabinet. It was an admirable effort, Tunt resigned, though he was sure the danger was hundreds of miles away.

His eyes drifted outside the cabin window, their airship fast approaching the glistening, sprawling skyline of Esterden.

Time to face the music.

Jesruriz

Southron columbia

Jesruriz wrote: "Well i'd like to support your future campaign, news spreads fast that you're becoming somewhat, unpopular, i'm having the same problem." He said. "Some more funding for you and ill have media pump out good things about ya."

Heaving a sigh, DeWitt steadied himself. I thought not. “Your support would be most welcome, Ashton, from one President to another. And I could say the same. The Confederate States will support the legal and rightful government of your Republic, so long as the democratic process is allowed to thrive. I’m sure we share the same sentiment. In the meantime, while a direct line usually pertains to matters of importance, Mr. President, is there something else you would like to discuss with me with regards to the affairs between our two nations?” It seemed rather unorthodox for a foreign government to announce their support of another regime, and unheard of really, at the present moment. The world seemed... distant, even with their efforts towards diplomacy. It is a big world. So much more to see and do, though with little time. Anercia was Columbia’s first step towards realizing outside relations. Their support, especially a personal statement of this support, was certainly not without merit.

Jesruriz

Southron columbia

Proceeding with Caution

The construction of the CSS Victoria (BB-11) is complete, along with two cruisers, three destroyers, and three corvettes. With the commissioning and inducting of the Independence into the CSNAF, there are now four Battleship Squadrons in total in the growing Confederate Navy. There have been talks to finally retire the CSNAF’s last Pequot-class in commission and to finally allow for the continued modernization of Columbia’s fighting capability. The completion of this new ship-of-the-line also follows the CSS Providence (BB-12) as her keel is laid now and construction of the vessel begins.

Current battleships:

CSS Anastas
CSS Independence
CSS Gadsden
CSS Victoria

Jesruriz

New Ship

Thats right, Anercia has another battleship, 2 more cruisers, three more destroyers, 5 more zappalino class bombers, and 12 new corvette classes.

Checkmate

He gave the order, to once again rid himself and the country he so loves of parasites that wear a uniform. He waits for the news, looking at the clock it says 3:23 PM, but in his mind images racing a mile a minute of failing or succeeding. If he can secure the army, Isof would have to back down, and Ashton would get his way. Turning around he looked outside his window overlooking his city, Valesord, the heart of Anercia and his seat of power. He wonders if that's how the King felt, like a trapped and cornered fox. He tries to relax with a glass of whisky and maybe a cigar, in only a few hours he will get the news.

Loyal Army officers assemble at the president’s command, gathering their forces to surround Camp Strong, where the conspiracy against Anercia resides. They block off the city-like base from communication and transport, blocking roads and cutting telephone wires. IBNS agents confirmed that the conspiring generals and commanders are still there, but the camp is on full alert as soldiers scramble a defense. And as requested three Unity-Class Battleships enter the sky above, menacing them below with a show of strength. IBNS Chief of Valesord yelled, “Soldiers of Camp Strong and the General Staff of the Anercian Armed Forces. You are surrounded on all sides, surrender all officers and we will not destroy this place, you will be safe from any fire from your fellow comrades.” He gave the ultimatum to a popular sergeant.

In a frantic hurry to not be bombarded by artillery and ship guns, the soldiers stormed the main administration building. Dragging the generals out, beating them to subdue them, and presenting them to the agents. “Good, good. Arrest them all.” Agents cleared the camp building by building, leading to a mass arrest of thousands of soldiers suspected of treason. The following day was barely an uproar from the Assembly, they knew that Ashton held true power in this instance. Conservative leaders were rounded up in a mass trial. Scores of officers and organizers tried at once to be imprisoned, shot, or exiled. It had effectively removed 76 MP’s from power and left the General Staff emptied. Ashton gave empty seats to loyal MP’s and officers, giving him even more political power as seventy-six new seats were guaranteed to be his.

Now that the Army and Political Sphere was secured, Ashton sent a communique to Isof in Crimsrad. Calling for their surrender and arrest, the letter was sent back with a refusal. “Our next move sir?” The Chief of IBNS Operations asked, this new title given as part of a plan to separate the IBNS from the Ministry of the Interior. “Yeah, time to hang the bastard, ruin his plans. Have the Army surround Crimsrad and hunt down those Knights of Anercia thugs, can’t have armed militias roam in our country.” He ordered. “As you wish sir.”

Southron columbia and Laiakia

Southron columbia wrote:Middle predor

A Chance at Redemption

Secretary of State Petyr Tunt mulled over the events of the past few months, and the risk he had undertaken in departing for Kromkarie. An undertaken he had insisted upon, nonetheless, and one that both the President and the Vice President had vehemently opposed. The civil war had endangered the lives of those he had brought with him, risked the security of the Confederacy, and may or may not have cost DeWitt the re-election. Though now, he had another chance. A chance of redemption, and this time, offered by DeWitt to assure that a diplomatic channel was opened with adherents of tradition and authority.

The Predorian kingdom seemed a relic, of a time before flying battleships and destroyers, and an age not brought on by the conquest of the Greybacks. It had a monarch in a region rapidly developing on the enrichment of democracy and liberty, building the foundations for a free world. The Internationale would be the vanguard, the heart of the Free World, and it was up to the age-old nobility in this course of action. Tunt understood, ultimately, their apprehension of such... liberal views, and the effect it would have on their statuses and place in that hierarchy. A treacherous resistance in the back of the mind. In time, the Predorians will understand democracy. They will understand that they have nothing to lose... but their chains.

“We’re reading, Mr. Secretary,” Ambassador Markus Laszlow, reassigned at the new High Commissioner and Ambassador for the Confederate States Diplomatic Mission to Middle Predor. Trailing closely behind him were other men, clad in distinct fatigues. Lt. Gilmer and another—an Agent Kopkow, from Internal Affairs. Security was ramped up, obviously, ever since their failure in Kromkarie. The President would take no chances, certain that no harm would ever come to one of his cabinet. It was an admirable effort, Tunt resigned, though he was sure the danger was hundreds of miles away.

His eyes drifted outside the cabin window, their airship fast approaching the glistening, sprawling skyline of Esterden.

Time to face the music.

As the airship approached the sprawling old city, they could see the vast grasslands sprawling out from the edges, dotted here and there with farms and riddled with the small dark mouths of the extensive tunnel network that gave Predor its name. High above it soared the great battleships, headed off for another exercise, surrounded by cruisers, swarmed in turn by the thousands of airships of a kingdom long rooted in the tradition of flying ships.

Middle Predor was indeed a relic- descended from the original kingdom of Predor and enmired in traditions so extensive and ancient many had forgotten them. But the orderly, unhurried cruise of the airships and almost lazy way the Columbian airship was greeted by a curious flying boat, spoke of a way of life that had survived sleepily behind the protective embrace of the high mountains, one that countered thoughts of democracy and liberty with those of peace, order and stability in a rapidly-changing world. Sit back, relax, the city seemed to call as they descended towards it. Why rush? We have all the time in the world.

Middle Predor was a giant of the past, slumbering contentedly beneath the early snows of autumn undisturbed as the world changed around it. When awake, it had crushed airfleets and armies alike and waged war across a good portion of the continent as it broke the back of the Iron Kingdom of Angor.
Sky forbid that giant should ever be woken.

The chirrupy drone of flying-boat engines greeted the Columbian airship as it settled into the sheltering embrace of a cradle in Esterden's airfleet yards, and the State Secretary need only look to his left to see a cloud of the tiny airships hovering above the massive bulk of the kingdom's latest battleship under construction. But to his right, a party of gold-cloaked guards waited at the end of the boarding ramp, accompanied by the shining silver dazzle of a wingcloak floating delicately behind a Predorian noble as he waited for the State Secretary to disembark. This was the Foreign Affairs minister, Duke Wyman, who Tunt had encountered at the ill-fated meeting in Kromkarie. Safely at home, he bore the full regalia of a Predorian noble, with the traditional wingcloak with its inlaid arium crystals floating above the massive hilt of the duelling sword belted across the minister's back, a relic of far more savage times now little more than a fashion item- although every noble still knew how to wield the massive weapon with startling skill.

Jesruriz and Southron columbia

Southron columbia

The Second Congressional Session

With the arrival of January, and the new year, the first session of the 60th Congress of the Confederate States is officially adjourned and dissolved. Class I Senators and representatives, re-elected and newly incumbent, are sworn into office by the Vice President for the second session of the 60th Congress, with the Social Populists retaining a lead in both Senate and House, coinciding with a strong coalition with the Columbian Progressive and left-wing Republican adherents. The second session signifies the last two years of the DeWitt presidency, as well as the beginning of the presidential campaign season.

Jesruriz

Arresting the Mad Minister

Crimsrad was surrounded on all sides and completely cut off from the world. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers encircle the city as Agents negotiate for surrender. In a report, it stated that Isof had rallied local nationalist organizations to raise their militias, he was locking down the city, reinforcing positions with machine gun nests and snipers. All supported by a division of soldiers who defected to their side. Their headquarters was the former town hall now nested in a sea of sandbags. Ashton had thought of a plan to root him out and started by: giving amnesty to those who peacefully surrendered, and ordered for a siege to starve out the city, giving food and supplies to whoever surrendered.

A fews weeks passed by and IBNS reports indicated that morale has been grim for the defenders. Food riots and mass executions of traitors broke out in Crimsrad. Steadily Isof is losing his grip on the city. The army surrounding Crimsrad pushed and rapidly gained ground with little to no resistance, their promise of food and amnesty worked successfully as droves of civilians overthrew local garrisons. However as they entered deeper into the city, loyal forces were slowed down by street to street fighting, desperate assaults led to thousands of men dead lying on the street.

It was only a few days as their defenses broke down, brittle and half-manned as deserters left in massive numbers. The town hall was in sight and it seemed as though the entirety of the rebels were congregating on that point. By then the city fell back to into Ashton’s hands, and a few hours of intense fighting on the steps of the hall was Isof in chains, badly beaten and sent for a trial. He was not given a fair trial, instead sent to an underground facility to be tortured and question, a week of torture revealed some names. Finally the crisis was over but things had to be cleaned up, rounding up the rest of the rebels and put them on trial.

2nd Great Purge

With full backing of a newly reshuffled Assembly, Security Forces, and General Staff, Ashton has powers to commit a second purge of personnel. To really transform Anercia to his ultimate dream, a haven of tolerance and democracy, while he has to hold on democracy for a while, his powers will steer the country to correction. It would mean breaking the conservative and nationalist strong hold, something he was very much willing to do. These names, even if some were fabricated, provided by Isof had given him the excuse to arrest local politicians and MP’s.

In the assembly hall where all members were assembled for a resolution hearing, they were to vote on a new proposal, The Executive Empowerment Act. A bill which will restore certain articles of the constitution such as article 8 and 11. It will even give him new powers to appoint more than 12 supreme court judges and directly appoint lower court judges. He was set to give his speech, “Members of the Assembly! For too long parasites have controlled Anercia! They have plotted against not only the country but even my Administration.” He went off script as soldiers started to enter the building. A few members panicked but couldn’t leave, an increasing murmur filled the assembly hall. Then a broken Isof was brought on stage, whipped and beaten like a dog, “Their main conspirator has confessed and will name his co-conspirators.” He allowed Isof to speak.

As the first names were called, the soldiers escorted them outside. Panic spread to those who were not named already. Some MP’s stood up and started to hail Ashton’s Name. “Hail Ashton! Long live our great leader!” They yelled, fruitlessly trying to avoid their impending doom. Or said, “Fascist! You are a Fascist Ashton! Tyrant!” They yelled as their voices crack under the stress and fear. But this did nothing to stop the soldiers from dragging them from their seats. The last names were called and in total 89 MP’s were forcibly removed from the hall and into the street. Where they were given pistols and forced to shoot their fellow MP, until no one was alive.

This event has quieted the nation, even the most radical of them silent in the face of a brutal purge. Ashton has cemented his power truly as he practically reshuffled his entire party to favor him. And the EEA has passed with 257 ayes to 43 nays, constitutionally guaranteeing him his power.

Scarlettan Reconciliation Committee

To dispel Anercia of racial tensions and riots, Ashton created the Scarlettan Reconciliation Committee. Which will oversee the creation of a new civil rights bill with local leaders and organizations. In a radio broadcast across the nation, President Ashton has supported Scarlettan Rights openly, making him the first UAP chairman to do so. He has met with civil rights leaders in the White Palace and discussed what to do. With his new found powers, he decided that he would make the committee into a decree that will make it into law effective immediately.

1. Changing the Declaration of Right’s language to include everyone regardless of sex and skin color.
2. Make it Illegal to discriminate based on sex and skin color
3. Desegregation of schools and public and federal areas.
4. Subsidies for Scarlettan neighborhoods and businesses.
5. Classified a new type of crime, a hate crime, which is the act of committing a crime against minority groups and persons.

This radical piece of legislation that would have been hard to get through the Assembly, passed the 2/3rd supermajority requirement with 290 Ayes to 10 Nays. Ashton declared the passing of the bill to be a, “New Era for Anercia! One of peace amongst neighbors and co-prosperity with one another.” Along with this a major crackdown of nationalist and valish-supremacy groups throughout the country. With mass scale arrests and reshuffling of entire state councils and lower courts. The army was brought into the most hateful regions of the nation, protecting Scarlettan communities from lynchings and violence, while escorting students and workers to their newly desegregated schools and workplaces.

With RFC popularity at an extreme low, many of their members were given amnesty by the Ashton Administration in exchange for their surrender, RFC cells quickly dwindled and disappeared over night. And with no common enemy or state repression, the Scarlettan community have hugely denounced them and call for their surrender. Their support non-existant, an armistice was signed in a court house in Metaxas between the President and their leaders, they were to surrender their arms and their leaders were given light prison time.

State Changes:
-Nation-Wide Riots
-The Scarlettan Problem
+Excellent Civil Rights
-Active RFC Cells

Southron columbia wrote:The Second Congressional Session

With the arrival of January, and the new year, the first session of the 60th Congress of the Confederate States is officially adjourned and dissolved. Class I Senators and representatives, re-elected and newly incumbent, are sworn into office by the Vice President for the second session of the 60th Congress, with the Social Populists retaining a lead in both Senate and House, coinciding with a strong coalition with the Columbian Progressive and left-wing Republican adherents. The second session signifies the last two years of the DeWitt presidency, as well as the beginning of the presidential campaign season.

Ashton Supports Dewitt!
Valesord Post

As the dust settles here, a new presidential campaign has begun to our northern neighbors. Southron Columbia, a reliable and friendly trade partner, is choosing who will lead them next. The current incumbent, President Dewitt, is a good choice for President. With his fight for good relations and non-isolationist policies landing him good feelings from us in Valesord. However, as good as he may be, he is powerless against a congress opposed with every fiber of their being to cement actual relationships with other nations. That's why our president, President Ashton Mercer, has publicly announced his support for Dewitts bid for the presidency. The Anercian Expatriates League in the Columbian capital has been organizing for his election, and even has donated large sums of Roses to their campaign office. GodSpeed, Future President Dewitt, we here at the Valesord Post salute to your good career.

Southron columbia

Southron columbia wrote:Heaving a sigh, DeWitt steadied himself. I thought not. “Your support would be most welcome, Ashton, from one President to another. And I could say the same. The Confederate States will support the legal and rightful government of your Republic, so long as the democratic process is allowed to thrive. I’m sure we share the same sentiment. In the meantime, while a direct line usually pertains to matters of importance, Mr. President, is there something else you would like to discuss with me with regards to the affairs between our two nations?” It seemed rather unorthodox for a foreign government to announce their support of another regime, and unheard of really, at the present moment. The world seemed... distant, even with their efforts towards diplomacy. It is a big world. So much more to see and do, though with little time. Anercia was Columbia’s first step towards realizing outside relations. Their support, especially a personal statement of this support, was certainly not without merit.

“Oh, I guess i’d like to listen to your own political problems, you are our neighbors after all. I have already taken care of my trash here, let me know if you need something or someone cleaned, if you know what i mean.” He chuckled.

Southron columbia

A New Year Filled With New Opportunities

A long and interesting year had passed, and now a new one came. The Pirate population of the Broken Coast celebrated by firing cannons into the sea and hills and getting as drunk as they possibly could get. Meanwhile, the construction of the fourth Dominion-Class aero-battleship alongside the second naval-battelship and some escorts had been finished. Their crews were preforming checks and their captains socialized together. The workers of the factories continued to create weapons of all kinds such as artillery and rifles.

Though in a factory in Asmodeus, engineers and other men of science and physics were working on a piece of armament that would assist in boarding battleships. The invention would be a giant boarding hook that, while in loading, would look like a giant spear and would be loaded into a cannon or artillery barrel before being fired, thus activating some sort of fuse that would allow the spear to extend its three metal hooks from its sides once the target had been pierced and thus allowing the target to be pulled or rendering it imobile with enough hooks penetrating it.

Jesruriz

Post self-deleted by Middle predor.

Southron columbia

Jesruriz wrote:“Oh, I guess i’d like to listen to your own political problems, you are our neighbors after all. I have already taken care of my trash here, let me know if you need something or someone cleaned, if you know what i mean.” He chuckled.

“Thank you, Mr. President. We will get in touch,” DeWitt concluded, “have a great rest of your day.” The President of the Confederacy briefly ended the phone call, a chill coming down his spine at those last few words. The man... he had actually offered to get rid of his rivals. Thank the Divines he had eyes in Valesord. He turned his swivel chair to catch a glimpse outside the President’s office.

What the hell is happening in Anercia?

Jesruriz

Southron columbia

Jesruriz wrote:Arresting the Mad Minister

Crimsrad was surrounded on all sides and completely cut off from the world. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers encircle the city as Agents negotiate for surrender. In a report, it stated that Isof had rallied local nationalist organizations to raise their militias, he was locking down the city, reinforcing positions with machine gun nests and snipers. All supported by a division of soldiers who defected to their side. Their headquarters was the former town hall now nested in a sea of sandbags. Ashton had thought of a plan to root him out and started by: giving amnesty to those who peacefully surrendered, and ordered for a siege to starve out the city, giving food and supplies to whoever surrendered.

A fews weeks passed by and IBNS reports indicated that morale has been grim for the defenders. Food riots and mass executions of traitors broke out in Crimsrad. Steadily Isof is losing his grip on the city. The army surrounding Crimsrad pushed and rapidly gained ground with little to no resistance, their promise of food and amnesty worked successfully as droves of civilians overthrew local garrisons. However as they entered deeper into the city, loyal forces were slowed down by street to street fighting, desperate assaults led to thousands of men dead lying on the street.

It was only a few days as their defenses broke down, brittle and half-manned as deserters left in massive numbers. The town hall was in sight and it seemed as though the entirety of the rebels were congregating on that point. By then the city fell back to into Ashton’s hands, and a few hours of intense fighting on the steps of the hall was Isof in chains, badly beaten and sent for a trial. He was not given a fair trial, instead sent to an underground facility to be tortured and question, a week of torture revealed some names. Finally the crisis was over but things had to be cleaned up, rounding up the rest of the rebels and put them on trial.

2nd Great Purge

With full backing of a newly reshuffled Assembly, Security Forces, and General Staff, Ashton has powers to commit a second purge of personnel. To really transform Anercia to his ultimate dream, a haven of tolerance and democracy, while he has to hold on democracy for a while, his powers will steer the country to correction. It would mean breaking the conservative and nationalist strong hold, something he was very much willing to do. These names, even if some were fabricated, provided by Isof had given him the excuse to arrest local politicians and MP’s.

In the assembly hall where all members were assembled for a resolution hearing, they were to vote on a new proposal, The Executive Empowerment Act. A bill which will restore certain articles of the constitution such as article 8 and 11. It will even give him new powers to appoint more than 12 supreme court judges and directly appoint lower court judges. He was set to give his speech, “Members of the Assembly! For too long parasites have controlled Anercia! They have plotted against not only the country but even my Administration.” He went off script as soldiers started to enter the building. A few members panicked but couldn’t leave, an increasing murmur filled the assembly hall. Then a broken Isof was brought on stage, whipped and beaten like a dog, “Their main conspirator has confessed and will name his co-conspirators.” He allowed Isof to speak.

As the first names were called, the soldiers escorted them outside. Panic spread to those who were not named already. Some MP’s stood up and started to hail Ashton’s Name. “Hail Ashton! Long live our great leader!” They yelled, fruitlessly trying to avoid their impending doom. Or said, “Fascist! You are a Fascist Ashton! Tyrant!” They yelled as their voices crack under the stress and fear. But this did nothing to stop the soldiers from dragging them from their seats. The last names were called and in total 89 MP’s were forcibly removed from the hall and into the street. Where they were given pistols and forced to shoot their fellow MP, until no one was alive.

This event has quieted the nation, even the most radical of them silent in the face of a brutal purge. Ashton has cemented his power truly as he practically reshuffled his entire party to favor him. And the EEA has passed with 257 ayes to 43 nays, constitutionally guaranteeing him his power.

Frosturne
Blaiche
Laiakia
Jesruriz

The Eagle’s Call

While ODIN’s intelligence apparatus, largely a success with the first stages of OPERATION ROSE THORN, had sought to remain quiet, operatives had no intent on staying silent just as the terrorized Anercian populace. The agents stationed in Valesord had worked, tirelessly, as the second purge of the host government was engaged, leading to the massacre of 89 politicians, without trial or proper judgement. The Anercian President was insane, that had to be known as much, with his latest spree of political killings and assassinations. Anercia, or its government, had no right to call itself a democracy.

Detailed accounts and photo evidence were taken by ODIN agents in the city, tasked with infiltrating the civilian administration as part of the second stages of ROSE THORN. The event known as Bloody Tuesday were coincident with such efforts, and intel was briefly passed from agent to agent, handler to handler, finally reaching across the Columbian-Anercian border, and then finally, after a careful review of details by ODIN, landed in the desk of the President of the Confederate States.

DeWitt had to act. He was horrified, more so than he was outraged, and what he thought of as nothing more than unwarranted paranoia had come to fruition, right next to the Confederacy no less. Passing down a consecutive bout of Consent and Explicit Executive Orders, the International Railroad ground to a halt, while Congress followed suit with economic sanctions on Anercia until the Republic denounced the actions of President Ashton, his cabinet, and the subsequent resignation of the perpetrators and collaborators of the massacre. While the borders between the two nations were closed off, the Columbian general consulate at Ronte and the main embassy at Valesord have been temporarily closed off from public access, and security forces have been mobilized to defend the High Commissioner and the mission against possible reprisals from the Ashton administration. Consequently, the CS Naval Air Forces is prepared to mobilize an entire battleship squadron, if need be, towards the border if Ashton is not removed from power, or if the situation escalates into a crisis.

DeWitt has publicly condemned the drastic and barbaric actions of President Ashton and his administration, calling him “a threat to the democratic ideal and an affront to those who struggle for the movement of freedom and liberty.” DeWitt, additionally, has called for the Internationale to act, and that he will seek for Congress to reconsider its position in the alliance. “The Internationale must act swiftly, for the democratic process is under attack. The Anercian people will continue to experience prejudices, such as the massacre of the members of parliament, without a single iota of mercy or justice in mind.” The information gathered from ODIN intel had been shared across the seas, reaching the eyes and ears of the Internationale’s head leaders and officials.

Jesruriz and Laiakia

Southron columbia

Middle predor wrote:As the airship approached the sprawling old city, they could see the vast grasslands sprawling out from the edges, dotted here and there with farms and riddled with the small dark mouths of the extensive tunnel network that gave Predor its name. High above it soared the great battleships, headed off for another exercise, surrounded by cruisers, swarmed in turn by the thousands of airships of a kingdom long rooted in the tradition of flying ships.

Middle Predor was indeed a relic- descended from the original kingdom of Predor and enmired in traditions so extensive and ancient many had forgotten them. But the orderly, unhurried cruise of the airships and almost lazy way the Columbian airship was greeted by a curious flying boat, spoke of a way of life that had survived sleepily behind the protective embrace of the high mountains, one that countered thoughts of democracy and liberty with those of peace, order and stability in a rapidly-changing world. Sit back, relax, the city seemed to call as they descended towards it. Why rush? We have all the time in the world.

Middle Predor was a giant of the past, slumbering contentedly beneath the early snows of autumn undisturbed as the world changed around it. When awake, it had crushed airfleets and armies alike and waged war across a good portion of the continent as it broke the back of the Iron Kingdom of Angor.
Sky forbid that giant should ever be woken.

The chirrupy drone of flying-boat engines greeted the Columbian airship as it settled into the sheltering embrace of a cradle in Esterden's airfleet yards, and the State Secretary need only look to his left to see a cloud of the tiny airships hovering above the massive bulk of the kingdom's latest battleship under construction. But to his right, a party of gold-cloaked guards waited at the end of the boarding ramp, accompanied by the shining silver dazzle of a wingcloak floating delicately behind a Predorian noble as he waited for the State Secretary to disembark. This was the Foreign Affairs minister, Duke Wyman, who Tunt had encountered at the ill-fated meeting in Kromkarie. Safely at home, he bore the full regalia of a Predorian noble, with the traditional wingcloak with its inlaid arium crystals floating above the massive hilt of the duelling sword belted across the minister's back, a relic of far more savage times now little more than a fashion item- although every noble still knew how to wield the massive weapon with startling skill.

Petyr was an exact contrast to the rather opulent regalia of the Predorian noble. The tall and slim Columbian wore a brown cotton three-piece suit, with a black puffy tie, and matched with a similarly colored overcoat and bowler hat. Ambassador Laszlow, on the other hand, donned a dark grey ensemble. Far from clothes that should be anywhere near nobility, there was a homely presence that spouted of formality and dignity in conventional wear. Sharper colors could dilute the atmosphere further.

“Duke Wyman!”’ the State Secretary addressed, as his entourage departed from the Columbian passenger airship—a far-cry from the battleships and aeronefs that roamed the azure main—and offered a hand in greeting. “A pleasure to meet you, Sir, once again, in farer conditions. I must apologize if we Confederates had to leave briefly, before beginning our talks with the King. It must have also been a hassle on the way home.”

Laszlow approached, a shorter, squat man, with a rather rotund physique that espoused years in desk duty and government bureaucracy. Both were aging men, but aging differently. “And good Sir, Mr. Markus Laszlow, from the conference. I’m sure you have also met with him briefly.”

Southron columbia wrote:

Jesruriz

The Eagle’s Call

-snip-

Middle Predor, upon hearing this news from Columbia, immediately states they do not condone actions of such a violent nature, with such senseless bloodshed.
"These vile actions by the previously peaceful government of Anercia are against all values of order and peace, and we call upon the Internationale to ensure this bloodshed does not continue.
Actions of this nature put in serious doubt the claims of peace, freedom and prosperity that democracy espouses, and are further proof of the unstable nature of such governments.
Middle Predor is fully willing to assist the Internationale if they cannot muster the strength needed to prevent this atrocity, but we eagerly await any revelations that the government of Anercia has come to its senses and stepped down."

But in response to the sudden escalation by Columbia, and wary of a surprise attack by Anercia or its allies, the sleeping giant of Middle Predor stirs slightly as the entire airfleet is mobilized and put on high alert, and defences in the mountains are reinforced with additional artillery and troops.

Southron columbia

Southron columbia wrote:Frosturne
Blaiche
Laiakia
Jesruriz

The Eagle’s Call

While ODIN’s intelligence apparatus, largely a success with the first stages of OPERATION ROSE THORN, had sought to remain quiet, operatives had no intent on staying silent just as the terrorized Anercian populace. The agents stationed in Valesord had worked, tirelessly, as the second purge of the host government was engaged, leading to the massacre of 89 politicians, without trial or proper judgement. The Anercian President was insane, that had to be known as much, with his latest spree of political killings and assassinations. Anercia, or its government, had no right to call itself a democracy.

Detailed accounts and photo evidence were taken by ODIN agents in the city, tasked with infiltrating the civilian administration as part of the second stages of ROSE THORN. The event known as Bloody Tuesday were coincident with such efforts, and intel was briefly passed from agent to agent, handler to handler, finally reaching across the Columbian-Anercian border, and then finally, after a careful review of details by ODIN, landed in the desk of the President of the Confederate States.

DeWitt had to act. He was horrified, more so than he was outraged, and what he thought of as nothing more than unwarranted paranoia had come to fruition, right next to the Confederacy no less. Passing down a consecutive bout of Consent and Explicit Executive Orders, the International Railroad ground to a halt, while Congress followed suit with economic sanctions on Anercia until the Republic denounced the actions of President Ashton, his cabinet, and the subsequent resignation of the perpetrators and collaborators of the massacre. While the borders between the two nations were closed off, the Columbian general consulate at Ronte and the main embassy at Valesord have been temporarily closed off from public access, and security forces have been mobilized to defend the High Commissioner and the mission against possible reprisals from the Ashton administration. Consequently, the CS Naval Air Forces is prepared to mobilize an entire battleship squadron, if need be, towards the border if Ashton is not removed from power, or if the situation escalates into a crisis.

DeWitt has publicly condemned the drastic and barbaric actions of President Ashton and his administration, calling him “a threat to the democratic ideal and an affront to those who struggle for the movement of freedom and liberty.” DeWitt, additionally, has called for the Internationale to act, and that he will seek for Congress to reconsider its position in the alliance. “The Internationale must act swiftly, for the democratic process is under attack. The Anercian people will continue to experience prejudices, such as the massacre of the members of parliament, without a single iota of mercy or justice in mind.” The information gathered from ODIN intel had been shared across the seas, reaching the eyes and ears of the Internationale’s head leaders and officials.

Aleksander's Secret Visits

Aleksander had not been idle during Ashton’s mass purges of the military and legislature. He knew full well of the IBNS’s dealings and inner workings, how’d they get information and their eyes and ears planted nearly everywhere. It had started with a secret visit to an apartment of a seemingly random Columbian expat. He knocked on the door and as it opened he greeted the immigrant, “Hello! I am the vice president of Anercia, surprised huh? Ah well we know about who you are, but don’t worry i’m a friend.” He told the expat.

Before his visit he had arranged a meeting with the Blaichian Prime Minister and Pirate Lords.

Southron columbia

Southron columbia wrote:Frosturne
Blaiche
Laiakia
Jesruriz

The Eagle’s Call

While ODIN’s intelligence apparatus, largely a success with the first stages of OPERATION ROSE THORN, had sought to remain quiet, operatives had no intent on staying silent just as the terrorized Anercian populace. The agents stationed in Valesord had worked, tirelessly, as the second purge of the host government was engaged, leading to the massacre of 89 politicians, without trial or proper judgement. The Anercian President was insane, that had to be known as much, with his latest spree of political killings and assassinations. Anercia, or its government, had no right to call itself a democracy.

Detailed accounts and photo evidence were taken by ODIN agents in the city, tasked with infiltrating the civilian administration as part of the second stages of ROSE THORN. The event known as Bloody Tuesday were coincident with such efforts, and intel was briefly passed from agent to agent, handler to handler, finally reaching across the Columbian-Anercian border, and then finally, after a careful review of details by ODIN, landed in the desk of the President of the Confederate States.

DeWitt had to act. He was horrified, more so than he was outraged, and what he thought of as nothing more than unwarranted paranoia had come to fruition, right next to the Confederacy no less. Passing down a consecutive bout of Consent and Explicit Executive Orders, the International Railroad ground to a halt, while Congress followed suit with economic sanctions on Anercia until the Republic denounced the actions of President Ashton, his cabinet, and the subsequent resignation of the perpetrators and collaborators of the massacre. While the borders between the two nations were closed off, the Columbian general consulate at Ronte and the main embassy at Valesord have been temporarily closed off from public access, and security forces have been mobilized to defend the High Commissioner and the mission against possible reprisals from the Ashton administration. Consequently, the CS Naval Air Forces is prepared to mobilize an entire battleship squadron, if need be, towards the border if Ashton is not removed from power, or if the situation escalates into a crisis.

DeWitt has publicly condemned the drastic and barbaric actions of President Ashton and his administration, calling him “a threat to the democratic ideal and an affront to those who struggle for the movement of freedom and liberty.” DeWitt, additionally, has called for the Internationale to act, and that he will seek for Congress to reconsider its position in the alliance. “The Internationale must act swiftly, for the democratic process is under attack. The Anercian people will continue to experience prejudices, such as the massacre of the members of parliament, without a single iota of mercy or justice in mind.” The information gathered from ODIN intel had been shared across the seas, reaching the eyes and ears of the Internationale’s head leaders and officials.

Following the intelligence reaching the Pirate Lords of the Broken Coast, a hasty meeting had been convened to discuss what the Coast should do in regards to the Anercian purge. A lengthy discussion followed until the decision was made that it would be too risky to condemn or otherwise move against the Anercian madman while trading ships and other members of the Coast were on shoreleave. On the other hand, the Lords saw an opportunity to infiltrate Anercia via sea, should a chance present itself. As such, no official response came from the Coast, though letters were sent to all other members in the Internationale stating that;

"The Brotherhood of the Broken Coast condemns the unjustful slaughter caused the Anercian President Ashton, and stands with the Internationale in wishing to remove him. However, due to a number of our sailors being on shoreleave in Anercia, the Coast wishes not to anger the Anercian madman, as he has clearly showed delusions and the lengths he would be willing to take to remove any who oppose him. As such, the Broken Coast will not be launching any official sanctions, statements or military movements against the corrupt Anercian regime. This, however, opens up an avenue of infiltration through ships heading for protection in Anercian ports, should other options fail and a covert operation be either needed or requested by the true followers of freedom in Anercia.

Signed- Pirate Lords Barbarossa, Silverstry, Lock."

Southron columbia

Southron columbia wrote:Petyr was an exact contrast to the rather opulent regalia of the Predorian noble. The tall and slim Columbian wore a brown cotton three-piece suit, with a black puffy tie, and matched with a similarly colored overcoat and bowler hat. Ambassador Laszlow, on the other hand, donned a dark grey ensemble. Far from clothes that should be anywhere near nobility, there was a homely presence that spouted of formality and dignity in conventional wear. Sharper colors could dilute the atmosphere further.

“Duke Wyman!”’ the State Secretary addressed, as his entourage departed from the Columbian passenger airship—a far-cry from the battleships and aeronefs that roamed the azure main—and offered a hand in greeting. “A pleasure to meet you, Sir, once again, in farer conditions. I must apologize if we Confederates had to leave briefly, before beginning our talks with the King. It must have also been a hassle on the way home.”

Laszlow approached, a shorter, squat man, with a rather rotund physique that espoused years in desk duty and government bureaucracy. Both were aging men, but aging differently. “And good Sir, Mr. Markus Laszlow, from the conference. I’m sure you have also met with him briefly.”

While handshakes were not normal in Middle Predor, the Duke took the proffered hand with a firm grip. He smiled at the State Secretary's words.
"Indeed, it is good to talk where one does not feel the hangman's noose looming above his neck! Oh, our journey was uneventful- as it happened, the Norvic delegation arrived as we were departing, and the King was able to get a lot of business with the Norvic king done."

He bowed, very slightly, to Laszlow. "Indeed I have. A pleasure to make your acquaintance again, Mr. Laszlow."

He smiled and gestured to a carriage waiting nearby.

"If you'd care to accompany me, sirs, the King eagerly awaits an audience with you. A lunch has been prepared, as I am sure you are famished after your journey."

Southron columbia

Southron columbia

Jesruriz wrote:Aleksander's Secret Visits

Aleksander had not been idle during Ashton’s mass purges of the military and legislature. He knew full well of the IBNS’s dealings and inner workings, how’d they get information and their eyes and ears planted nearly everywhere. It had started with a secret visit to an apartment of a seemingly random Columbian expat. He knocked on the door and as it opened he greeted the immigrant, “Hello! I am the vice president of Anercia, surprised huh? Ah well we know about who you are, but don’t worry i’m a friend.” He told the expat.

Before his visit he had arranged a meeting with the Blaichian Prime Minister and Pirate Lords.

The expat, while not really in the business of the more clandestine operations of the Confederacy, was a member of the Embassy staff in Valesord, and was more than happy to refer the Vice President to the Confederate Ambassador, Mr. Collins. By way of a secret passage, the Anercian deputy head of state was guided into the Embassy to meet with Barnabas, who had been at edge ever since the Confederacy closed down the embassies.

“Mr. Vice President,” he greeted, though with a hint of hesitation in his voice, welcoming the Anercian into his office. “I had not expected you, but an employ of ours had alerted in advance. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?” Especially at such tumultuous times.

Jesruriz

Southron columbia

Middle predor wrote:While handshakes were not normal in Middle Predor, the Duke took the proffered hand with a firm grip. He smiled at the State Secretary's words.
"Indeed, it is good to talk where one does not feel the hangman's noose looming above his neck! Oh, our journey was uneventful- as it happened, the Norvic delegation arrived as we were departing, and the King was able to get a lot of business with the Norvic king done."

He bowed, very slightly, to Laszlow. "Indeed I have. A pleasure to make your acquaintance again, Mr. Laszlow."

He smiled and gestured to a carriage waiting nearby.

"If you'd care to accompany me, sirs, the King eagerly awaits an audience with you. A lunch has been prepared, as I am sure you are famished after your journey."

“Of course, Your Grace,” the State Secretary answered respectfully. And thus, did the Columbian delegation join the company of the Predorian duke. Once they had entered the comfort of the carriage, while the rest of the Embassy staff and the Columbian security detail followed through with other means of transportation, Tunt broke the silence, lest it become too saturated. “We have only heard it recently, before we had disembarked.”

“The Anercian President has gone mad, and ordered the murder of some number of his Parliament,” Laszlow chipped in. “A massacre, our observers had stated.”

The State Secretary nodded in agreement. There could be no doubt that the Confederacy, and the Administration as a whole, has entertained diplomacy with a sociopath and tyrant, his actions guided in the name of democracy no less. It was an insult. A most terrible, horrifying affront. “We are with our Anercian friends, nonetheless. The people suffer under his guidance.” We ought to put a rabid dog, than let it live.

Southron columbia wrote:The expat, while not really in the business of the more clandestine operations of the Confederacy, was a member of the Embassy staff in Valesord, and was more than happy to refer the Vice President to the Confederate Ambassador, Mr. Collins. By way of a secret passage, the Anercian deputy head of state was guided into the Embassy to meet with Barnabas, who had been at edge ever since the Confederacy closed down the embassies.

“Mr. Vice President,” he greeted, though with a hint of hesitation in his voice, welcoming the Anercian into his office. “I had not expected you, but an employ of ours had alerted in advance. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?” Especially at such tumultuous times.

“I will be straight with you Mr Collins, we will depose Ashton, and restore democracy.” He told him. “But for that i will need the backing of Columbia and the Internationale, do you see where im going with this?” He asked.

Southron columbia

Southron columbia wrote:“Of course, Your Grace,” the State Secretary answered respectfully. And thus, did the Columbian delegation join the company of the Predorian duke. Once they had entered the comfort of the carriage, while the rest of the Embassy staff and the Columbian security detail followed through with other means of transportation, Tunt broke the silence, lest it become too saturated. “We have only heard it recently, before we had disembarked.”

“The Anercian President has gone mad, and ordered the murder of some number of his Parliament,” Laszlow chipped in. “A massacre, our observers had stated.”

The State Secretary nodded in agreement. There could be no doubt that the Confederacy, and the Administration as a whole, has entertained diplomacy with a sociopath and tyrant, his actions guided in the name of democracy no less. It was an insult. A most terrible, horrifying affront. “We are with our Anercian friends, nonetheless. The people suffer under his guidance.” We ought to put a rabid dog, than let it live.

The carriage began moving, with Royal Guards on horseback keeping a perimeter around it as it trundled down the main causeway to the main square.

The Duke looked shocked. "A massacre? In Anercia? What could possibly cause him to do something so vile? We might have heard about this, but our, ah... fraying relationship with the Anercians has kept us from hearing any news. That truly is unforgivable."
The Duke carefully did not mention the fact that the Roydons, the royal family of the kingdom, had in fact used a rather similar trick to force their way onto the throne of Predor after kicking the Hyforts off it some eight centuries before. That particularly bloody night in Predor's history tended to go unmentioned, seeing as it had involved the destruction of an entire family tree as old as the Roydons themselves.

But then again, that had been about eight hundred years ago, and the Roydons of today were rather less cutthroat than their ancestors.
"Is there any way the Kingdom can assist efforts to prevent further bloodshed?" the Duke inquired, as the carriage passed the main square and turned off to the thoroughfare to the palace. The streets were filled with people going about their shopping, chatting in secluded corners, or just enjoying the afternoon. The square itself was currently occupied by a huge market, and assorted bits and bods of entertainment.

Southron columbia

Southron columbia

DeWitt's Civil Service Reform

Following the assurance that Congress, with the Senate and House backing him, was behind the Administration for the next two years, the DeWitt has moved forward would an assortment of further reforms, with an initial emphasis on early 1891 with civil service reform, especially pertaining to the political system and the servicemen in the military. A prominent supporter of the merit system, DeWitt made changes and appointed several reformers, including a Theon Harrison and Eugene Faun into the Confederate States Civil Service Commission after some disappointments into his initial actions in the reform cause. While himself not responsible for the previous Chester Civil Service Reform Act of 1883, DeWitt sought to enforce the legislation after eight years of partisan division of predecessor administrations and as a congressional football, became a heated debate in the floor of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Act provided for the selection of some government employees by competitive exams, rather than ties to politicians or political affiliation. It also made it illegal to fire or demote these government officials for political reasons and created the Confederate States Civil Service Commission to enforce the merit system. The act initially only applied to about ten percent of federal employees, but now covers most federal employees. In the light of these reforms, DeWitt has also sought changes in military servicemen, and particularly, on the topic of pensions for dependents and those disabled in military actions. DeWitt quickly saw the enactment of the Dependent and Disability Pension Act of 1891. In addition to providing pensions to disabled Civil War veterans (regardless of the cause of their disability) and those disabled during previous or present military action, the Act depleted some of the troublesome federal budget surplus. Families of veterans were also compensated for their services in the military.

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