Taijitu
Forum Meta => Role Play => Archived Role Play Boards => Archive => General Roleplay => Topic started by: Collatica on September 09, 2007, 05:34:21 PM
-
The Imperial Palace; Topeii. 3:57am
The Grand Imperial Palace of Topeii stands silent, except for the muffled sound of security patrols on it's perimeter. All the windows of the palace are dark but one. The Regina-Conjux and her son have sat helplessly beside the Imperator's bed as his breath has grown ever more shallow throughout the night. The physician has predicted this night will be the Imperator's last. For once genuine concern for his father seems to blanket Alexus' face, whilst his mother's remains devoid of all emotion.
The doors burst open and enters the Princess. Alexus' gaze flickers up to his alienated sister and then concentrates back on his father. Their mother however allows her penetrating glare to reside on her daughter for quite some time. Lucia rushes to her father's side and kisses his forehead.
"Dear Father, apologies for my absence I came from Paix as soon as I heard."
She settled herself on the opposite side of the Imperator's bed, whos breath had ceased to make an audible sound all together now. She wept as the sounds of the heart-monitor grew less and less frequent, until suddenly they were replaced by the impersonal consistent hum which concluded the reign of Marcus IV. The family sat for a few minutes contemplating what had just occured, all present knew that the affairs of the upcoming succession would tear their family apart.
Finally Dux-Regina Conjux Servia got up, and ushered in the legal attorney's and representatives that were waiting patiently outside. The chief magistrate of the Latican State stepped forward and seemed to loom over the tiny man slumped in his bed, ready to recite the official death rights given to all Imperator's upon their deathbed.
"I call upon all present to bear witness the official passing of the glorious Dux-Imperator Marcus IV at 04:12am on September 9th 2007. In accordance with His Grace's last will and testament, the reading of the aforementioned documents and final closure of all His affairs will occur in three days time."
The physician then confirmed that the Imperator was indeed dead and arranged the body in a dignified pose, before the death-mask and sketch were taken. Throughout all this those closest personally to the Imperator sat beside him, lost deep in thought of the dark days to come.
-
The Consular Palace; Central Topeii. 12:04pm
The lavish office of the Consul-Prime is located in the central bay on the second floor of the Palace. Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus Draconia had arrived exceptionally early that morning, and since had been immersed in meetings with his cabinet noted his secretaries. Now they knew why. At midday all broadcasts had been interrupted using the emergency over-ride of the Imperial House. The Regina Conjux had just finished announcing the death of the Imperator, the father of Dux-Alexus, he was now able to inherit the throne.
Within the Opal Office (title of the office of the Consul-Prime), Dux-Alexus was deep in talks with the full cabinet. The subject under deep discussion was his imminent succession to the throne, and the problem the Dux-Tribunas Populus (his sister) and her democratic supporters presented.
"My Lord, any military mobilization against the only executive democratic office would cause national uproar. In destroying the very office that emanates opposition to your regime you would only strengthen and focus their support-base." explained Praetor Yammat. The Consul-Prime cursed, he had anticipated that if any opposition arose he could count on the Legions to suppress, but national uproar would certainly mean the abrupt end of his dynasty. He silently cursed his father for allowing these liberal scum to commune. He turned to his Consul for Foreign Affairs...
"Consul Hikkins, do you have any suggestions for how we can undermine the efforts of these liberal pigs?"
"Beyond the previous suggestion of using the Public Enlightenment Consulate to propagate against Her Grace, your sister's office and her supporters. I can only suggest that we try and apply some pressure on the Democratic Tribunal, from foreign powers who understand the importance of the Imperial House in governance. However where we would find such support is yet to be determined, I have always been under orders to maintain an largely isolationist policy internationally, but I don't think this is beneficial to us anymore."
The Consul-Prime smiled broadly. "Indeed, Consul. What an excellent idea."
-
The Fasten Seatbelts sign just came on. The plane Philonexus II was flying in was about to land in Topeii, capitol of The Imperial Federated States of Collatica. This was Philonexus II's first foreign mission since taking office as Collosean Foreign Minister. He was damn proud to be able to build close ties with Collatica, whom many Colloseans view and being their brothers and sisters. Once the plane touched down, everyone on board knew that history had been made for both countries.
-
Patricianus-Consul Charlotte Hikkins of the Consulate of Foreign Affairs led the Collatican welcome party outside the VIP terminal of the Topeii City Airport. The heavily guarded Collosean jet was taxi-ing its way towards them as they assembled by the assigned parking dock. As it slowed to a stop in front of them a wave of excitement spread across the Consul, whilst she respected the reasons for it, the isolationist foreign policy of Collatica proved extremely unsatisfying to the particular Consul in office.
The heavy set doors opened with a hiss as the stairs were connected to the side of the plane. At first several armed security officers emerged from within the cabin, followed by what Consul Hikkins could only assume was the Collosean minister. She stepped forward as he approached, allowing a smile to creep onto her face.
"Minister Philonexus II I presume... On behalf of his Grace, Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus and the Imperial House I welcome you onto our soil."
The minister smiled broadly. "We extend our gratitude and happiness to our brothers of the Imperial House for requesting we open relations."
Consul Hikkins then presented the keys to 255 Vicus De Rex, the assigned Embassy building for the Collosean diplomatic representatives. She then introduced one of her Aides, who would be directing them to their new outpost, before bowing low and excusing herself.
--------------------------------------------------------
As these unprecedented diplomatic proceedings commenced Dux-Tribunas Populus Lucia Draconia was sitting alone in her office, her head in her hands. Just one day ago her dear father had died peacefully in his bed, confident in her ability to carry out his last wishes from her office in the Tribune. It appeared things were not going to be as straight-forward as they had expected. Her support-base was growing evermore radical, beginning to talk of revolution, the over-throwing of the long-standing, all-powerful, conservative Imperial House. Whilst the prospect of this excited her, to see her mother and brother's precious dynasty come crashing down on top of them, she was torn between her own beliefs and the dying wishes of her loving father.
Dux-Lucia sat up, and looked over the message just wired to her from her brother's office. It seemed her supporters were not the only group growing agitated. The message before her outlined the timetable for her exit from official membership of the Imperial House and her resignation from office in the Tribune. The severity of the situation had finally hit her, if a compromise was not soon met affairs would descend into open civil war, not seen in Collatica for several centuries.
Something needed to be done.
-
Philonexus laughed a little. "Now Consul, there's no need to be overly formal with me. I presume we'll be heading for our new embassy then?"
-
A few hours after the new Collosean delegation had taken residence in 255 Vicus De Rex, a long, sleek, black car glided up the avenue. As it slowed in front of the Embassy, the back-dorr swung open. An expensive looking stiletto emerged and set down on the pavement, and Dux-Tribunas Populus Lucia Draconia got out of the car. She walked up the stone steps with two security officers flanking her, as the doors were held open for her she nodded her head in appreciation. The delegation had expected her.
She entered the office of the Ambassador, currently occupied by Foreign Minister Philonexus. He ushered her onto a seat.
"Your Grace, please have a seat. I understand you have something you wish to discuss with me?"
"Indeed Minister. As you are probably aware my House and the the governing Institutions of this country are currently being ripped apart by my brother's attempts to defy my father's last testament, which will no doubt bestow sovereignty onto the Democratic Tribune and my office, rather than his. This should not be a difficult transition, however my brother has mustered enough support within the Tribune and his government to take this nation into a bloody civil war.
I have been ordered to step down from my office or fact such a consequence. We require your foreign intervention."
Philonexus sat back. Not only was this feuding family tearing their nation apart, but also his conscience.
-
OOC: sorry for late replies I moved into my university this weekend so it's all a bit hectic!
-
"Collosea is a democratic state... Long ago, we fought a bloody civil war to depose the monarchy and install the current democratic system..." Philonexus II gave a short pause to think. "However, a democracy is all about the will of the people. Yes, the Tribune is democratic, but after looking at the situation carefully, it looks as though the Dux-Princeps Consul has much more support. It is rather difficult to decide if either one of you should take power alone, and if so who." Again, Philonexus paused. "If either the Tribune or the Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus Draconia took power, it looks Collatica would plunge into civil war regardless..."
I can't let her take control of government, she would drive the country into further isolation and ruin any chances of meaningful relations with Collatica... Philonexus II thought to himself. But a civil war could be just as bad...
-
Dux-Tribunas Populus Lucia shifted uncomfortably in her seat as the awkward silence stretched out. She could see now that there was little to be gained from this man. Her brother had clearly gotten to him already, nor could she see the Collosean Federation risking being blamed for causing a Civil War which would no doubt happen if they were to back her and her radical following. She decided to take a new line of reasoning, and move to represent the interests of the more moderate sections of the Tribune, rather than her own party's.
"The Tribune would be prepared to allow my House to remain in power and play a large part in governance if a number of small concessions are made to make our position slightly less redundant. At the very least a procedure which blocks the Imperator from confirming cabinet appointments without the Tribune first also confirming the appointment, but we would like to see more than this.
These concessions are small but will no doubt lead to a more democratic Collatica and a more like-minded government for your country to strengthen relations with. Alexus should be easily swayed and accept these terms, I imagine he wants civil war even less than I. However whilst he is under the direct influence of my mother little ground can be gained."
She waited patiently whilst the Minister mulled this over.
-
"That does sound reasonable... But what do you think could be done to get him out from under her influence?"
-
"Perhaps just speaking to him alone and convincing him that in order to secure the dynasty concessions must be made to the people. All the nation in this area of the world are increasingly democratic, if he wants to pull Collatica out of it's isolation the only option is to convert his own institutions into a like-minded state to our neighbours."
Philonexus gave her a reassuring smile.
"I do in fact have a meeting scheduled with your brother this very afternoon."
"Excellent news Minister. If that is all then I must take my leave. We are eternally grateful for the counsel and guidance you give our young nation in this troublesome time. I expect I shall see you at the hearing of my father's last testament."
The Tribunas Populus got up, gave a nod of her head and swiftly left the room. Once outside she let out a sigh of anticipation. She had just set into motion events which went against her Tribunal supporting party. Small concessions?! Her party were pushing for a full revolution, and the total redundancy of the governance of the Imperial House! She could only hope she could fall back onto the moderates once her radical following removed their supports, with some luck they would re-secure her position.
-
After the Tribunas Populas had left, Philonexus II spent some time reading until it was time to meet with Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus. When it was almost time for him to arrive, he left the office and proceeded to the front entrance where he would await the Dux-Princeps Consul's arrival.
-
Meneldur closed the raised floral print on the book The True Code of a Quarrovth Noble, sighing. He almost missed the days when he could shout orders to Hupprecht Patrick, not caring what Great House Quarrovth had to say about the plan. He was the Empeurer, goddamnit, and he could tell Hupprecht to kill those reds as much as he wanted. Now he was sitting in his office in the Grand Imperial Residence, bored out of his mind.
He picked up the latest edition of the Imperial World News - a newspaper he ordered be made especially for the Imperial Family and other nobles of Great House Quarrovth, who, like him, thought the Myrorian Gazette was religious propaganda. He didn't realize the floral print on The True Code hid just as much.
Huh, apparently an important politician from Collosea was goin to Collatica. It used to be one of two absolute monarchies in the world, right next to it's southern neighbor Myroria. But Meneldur watched with growing fear the Tribune's increasing power over the nation.
Ah, yes, now he knows why the politican is being sent there. He read a couple of days earlier how the Dux-Imperator died. "The King is dead, long live the King", Emma said to him. He better offer his condolences, keep his image up. He picked up his phone, covered with a thin layer of ivory, the rotary dial being made of gold. As soon as he heard "This is Dux-" on the line, he began offering his condolences, which quickly mutated into "How 'bout that Tribune?"
-
Dux-Alexus gave a little laugh. What an unexpected turn of events. It appeared that although Collatica had maintained a highly isolationist policy, neighboring nations remained eager to influence internal politics. Myroria, the only other absolute monarchy of the region would no doubt have an interest in supporting his cause.
"Indeed brother Meneldur. It appears my House's enemies within the democratic Tribune are closing in around me. They are uniting under my treacherous sister's office and will no doubt attempt a coup on my office. Long past are the days when our houses were given the respect and obedience they deserve."
At that moment one of Alexus' aides entered the room. He raised his hand and signalled for her to message the Collosean delegation. Philonexus would have to wait until this potentially profitable conversation was over.
(OOC: sorry osafune, trying to put Alexus in two places at once haha. Will be at the embassy as soon as he is done speaking with Meneldur)
-
"Ah, it is exactly the opposite here. Long ago were the days when the Houses gave the Empeurer the respect he deserved," Meneldur said with a chuckle.
"if a coup is so imminent, how do you plan to stop it? I'm nearly sure that I could sway Great House Quarrovth to donate some of its coffers to your cause, if the money results in the continued existance of the honorable and powerful monarchial system of Collatica."
-
The Consul-Prime let a sly smile slide across his lips.
"Certainly your contribution would help in securing the compromising of my sister's position. Once she is gone the factions that gather under her would splinter, and the Tribune be set in a deadlock. This would allow me to call for elections, where your contribution would make even greater different in our campaigns.
Once the Imperial House has control of the Tribune, we have control of the people. Let me assure you that my House would forever be in your debt for such aid, and I would personally ensure the continuation of my dynasty and House as divine rulers of this nation.
So Your Grace, can I count on your support?"
He waited patiently for the reply.
-
"Of course you can. If my Great House can give you any help, we'd be happy to oblige."
-
"My deepest thanks brother Meneldur. Now if you'll excuse me I have an urgent appointment to attend to. I shall have our offices convene to sort out the necessary details. Hail Great House Quarrovth!"
With that the Consul-Prime transferred the call through to his aides offices. He stood up from his desk and stretched his arms out in front of him. The sun was setting over the beautiful capital city of Topeii. What a long day it had been for Alexus, succession had seemed so close then far as many as three times. Now however his grasp on power seemed more concrete than ever.
It was time for some diplomatics of a more complex nature. Alexus sweeped down the Consular Palace steps and entered his favourite black government car. As he stepped into the sleek leather interior he gave a polite nod to his driver and cheif-legatus [body guard]. The car glided through the high gates and proceeded towards 255 Vicus de Rex, home to the Collosean Embassy, where Minister Philonexus was patiently waiting.
-
<ooc>FYI, Ephedros Ypodekaneas is a military rank. (OR-4)</ooc>
As he was waiting for the Dux-Princeps to arrive, Philonexus II was making small talk with the EF-Collatica Detache commander, Ephedros Ypodekaneas Comnenus VIII. Comnenus VIII volunteered to command the detache, as did the Executive Force soldiers that it comprised of.
"Oh I almost forgot, this fax came in for you while you were meeting with the Dux-Tribunas. A secretary asked me to give it to you when it to you when you were done." Comnenus VIII took a paper off of the clipboard he carries with with him and hands it to Philonexus II.
"Let's see what we've got here..." Philonexus II takes the paper and glances over it. "I see, so Amalia I has been given the ambassador position and will be arriving it a couple days."
"Amalia I, huh? Wasn't she the Deputy Foreign Minister under Osafune II's administration?"
Philonexus II nodded. "Uh-huh. Glad to see his son took my advice when nominating her." There was a long pause after finishing the sentence. "I wonder what's taking Alexus?"
Comnenus VIII shrugged. "No clue."
As soon as those two words came out of his mouth, a guard began speaking to him through his walkie-talkie. "Sir Comnenus VIII, Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus Draconia's vehicle has just entered the complex. Confirm?"
The loud voice startled the two men who had been alone for most of the time since the previous meeting ended. "Ha! Well how about that..." said Philonexus II.
"Confirmed, pass it on to the Front Guard." Ordered the commander.
"Roger."
"Well, I must be going now." Philonexus II got up from his seat and turned for the door to the office.
"Me too, I need to make sure everyone is still where they should be." Comnenus VII also got up and followed Philonexus II to the door. Once they exited, they went opposite ways down the halls. "Good luck with your talks."
"Thanks, I'll talk to you later." replied Philonexus as he made his way to the front entrance to greet the Dux-Princeps.
-
The sleek black car rolled up along the same path Alexus' sister's had just hours ago. It stopped at the bottom of the stone steps and the Dux-Princeps Consul stepped from the car. He glanced up the steps before hurriedly sweeping up them, instantly flanked by two Royal Guards. He approached the Minister, who gave a nod of his head.
"Minister Philonexus II, we finally meet. You have my sincere apologies for the delay, there were some... unexpected complications which arose. I assume we are to continue our meeting as planned?"
"Certainly Dux-Princeps, please do come inside."
The delegation turned and made it's way inside the main Embassy building. Once inside the doors were closed and the two men walked up the grand staircase to the Ambassadorial Office. The guards made a move as if to follow but were stopped as Dux-Alexus raised his hand. Once within the office the Minister took a seat behind the desk and Alexus directly opposite him. Immediately Dux-Alexus looked the Minister straight in the eye.
"You understand the things at risk in this situation I presume brother Minister. My dear nation, ruled benevolently for centuries by my House is on the brink of civil war. All for some despicable radical communist stirring which has elevated my traitor sister into office!
You invite me here to mediate the situation, to compromise. How can one compromise when they demand no less than the complete desecration of my House and the institution it serves!"
-
BREAKING NEWS
Dux-Tribunas Populus Lucia Draconia is no more! In what has been a dramatic turn of events here at the Democratic Tribune, Her Grace has been forced to step down from office after her support from the radical Progessive Democrat Party (PDP) was withdrawn. Without her leadership the coalition between the PDP and Latican Socialist Movement (LSM) has subsequently collapsed, leaving the Tribune in a total deadlock. With no clear majority all opposing parties instantly called a vote of no confidence in Dux-Lucia Draconia, compromising her position completely.
Concentration now turns to His Grace, Dux-Princeps Consul Alexus Draconia to remedy the increasingly dangerous situation in Topeii. The future of Collatica now rests in his wise hands.
Hail Domus Draconii! (hail House Draconii)
Brought to you by the Latican Broadcasting Network (LBN), Tribunal Channel, Topeii.
-
<ooc>Considering how recent things happened, I wouldn't know about the news</ooc>
"Well sir, as you may know, I've already had a meeting with the Dux-Tribunas. Her demands have lessened; she only asked for small concessions such as allowing the Tribune to confirm your cabinet appointments. It's all to make the Tribune less redundant, but you would still be ensured to have a large amount of power in Collatica."
<ooc>Btw, are you particularly wanting a civil war or something?</ooc>
-
OOC: No and neither would Alexus.
Dux-Alexus paused a moment, this he had not been expecting. He had always assumed that the PDP-SDM coalition would never back down on the emancipation of the Tribune from royal acquisition, in fact he was certain of it. One of the foundation clauses of the PDP-SDM co-operation was along with both supporting her sister's bid for office, that they would seek the unconditional surrender of Latican sovereignty from the Imperial House. Had Alexus been in power at that time he would have attempted to have their leader's arrested for treason, but his father had allowed this mongering to continue, assuring him that less opposition would be mustered if he let them have their 'bitch-fest' about the Imperial House in the Tribune. Now they went against these principles? Alexus suspected a trap.
However he was aware that the more moderate parties of the Tribune would abandon their direct opposition of the House's regime if such small concessions were made. Had his sister abandoned her supporting coalition?
"Are you certain she said this? Was she still representing the interests of her PDP-SDM majority at the time? I am confused I must say Minister, for this is quite unexpected."
At that moment one of the Minister's secretaries entered the room, she looked rather shaken.
"Minister, we have some dramatic news from the Tribunal Halls and Dux-Lucia Draconia."
She approached the desk and handed Philonexus a piece of paper with the details of this 'dramatic' news coming from the Tribune. Alexus was intrigued.
"Brother Philonexus. What of my sister and the Tribune then?"
The Minister looked up from the paper, his face giving nothing away.
OOC: No I'm trying to avoid a civil war. This RP is mostly intended with integrating Collatica into the RP community and foreign affairs, so we have some friends in other countries. ;D
-
Philonexus II too was leary of the Dux-Tribunas when she said that to him. This startling news was an unwanted surprise, and undoubtedly proven to him that Lucia Draconia was being serious.
"I think this answers your first two questions Sir Draconia..."
-
The Minister handed the paper over to Alexus. Who quickly skimmed through the details of the shift of power within the Tribune. His eyes flickered up to meet the Minister's again, showing Philonexus his realisation that he was now effectively in control of the Tribune. However now the interests of the Collosean Federation took to limelight, they were key in pulling Collatica out of her diplomatic isolation.
"I am guessing Minister that whilst it appears the Tribune's demands are dropped for the time being, that your government's remains the same. Should Collatica wish to pursue relations with your nation would we still be expected to make the small concessions suggested by my sister and the more moderate factions of the Tribune?"
Not only would this please the Collosean Federation, but also hopefully pull the popular moderate parties into line with Alexus rather than the revolutionary PDP and SDM. This would mean that when Alexus was forced to end the political deadlock within the Tribune and call for elections (in the absence of the Tribunas Populus), the moderates who would no doubt win a significant slice of the Tribunal Seats would support his bid for the throne and his government. With the added bonus of course of a small Myrorian donation to their party.
-
"Demands? Collosea has no demands upon Collatica. Initially, I only came here to forge an alliance with your nation and to cement deep and lasting ties. Only after I arrived did I decide to try and assist in resolving Collatica's political crisis. It is the aforementioned that the people of Collosea care most about." After saying this, Philonexus II realized how badly one could construe his statements. "Don't take that as a green light for seizing complete power. This would not help the people of Collatica any..."
-
Alexus didn't understand the Minister's comments about seizing complete power. He already had it in a legitimate and legal capacity.
"I am confused Minister. Are you suggesting that Collosea would maintain relations with my government without any democratic concessions?"
-
Yawning shamelessly Yūmu Anlhī turned the key and opened the door to her Kēur apartment. Compact and practical, it was still a vast improvement on what the many people who inhabited the slums were living. Yūmu's good fortune in regards to her residence was a product of her employment within the Bureau of Imperial Security. Whether or not she appreciated this fact as she returned home was unknown. Still yawning with sleep clouding her eyes she staggered through the entrance hall and into the tiny living room where she promptly fell face first onto the couch. An indignant yelp and flurry of fur signaled that she had fallen on her diminutive pet dog Shauyhau.
"Oh, I'm sorry..." said Yūmu half heartedly as she turned her head to look at the canine who now sat on the carpet, wagging its tail and staring at her. Shauyhau gave two quick barks in response.
"I should feed you shouldn't I?"
Another bark and an even more rapid wagging of the tail. With a groan Yūmu lifted herself off the couch and walked into the kitchen against the will of her protesting feet. Shauyhau trotted after her happily. Yūmu fumbled first for the light switch, and then next through the cabinet for the Shauyhau's food. When she finally produced it Shauyhau began to bark once more with exitement as he ran and leapt around the room until he had finally been served his meal for the evening. With the dog's appetite sated Yūmu almost immediately fell back into the nearest chair. Her second chance at a peaceful rest though was promptly and rudely interrupted by the whine of her ringing cellphonel. With another groan of weariness and frustration she fished the item out of her pocket and read the name of the caller identified, hoping that she could ignore it. "Darlhunshīmshim". Begrudgingly she flipped open the phone and answered with "Woi woi, this is Anlhī."
"Anlhī-sam," half shouted the excitable voice on the other side of the line. "It's Akta-cham."
"Really?" said Yūmu with a sarcastic tone that was lost on Akta.
"Yep. I'm sorry to call you so late Anlhī-sam, but the Director wants to see you immediately..."
"Is this absolutely necessary? It's been a long day, and the metro'll still be packed at this hour."
"Well..." Akta paused to give the impression of conspiratorially glancing from side to side. "It involves orders directly from his Divinity."
The statement filled Yūmu's aching limbs with a sudden new energy. Springing to her feet with such speed that Shauyhau jumped in shock Yūmu replied "I'll be over there immediately."
-
"Correct, we require no democratic concessions. However, if you wish to bring Collatica out of isolation, it would be in your best interests to implement some form of democratic reform. Democracy is the standard among nations these days, and they are not willing to work with 'dictators,' benevolent or not. Collosea alone would not be able to bring Collatica out of isolation, but if you show the 'seeds of democracy' have been planted, other nations would be more willing to work with you. Your sister's revised demands would achieve this."
-
"Certainly that shall be taken into account when settling these troublesome affairs Minister. My government as you are probably aware are extremely interested in pursuing prosperous relations with our brothers in Collosea. We are eternally grateful to you for the counsel and even-handed assertions you have given us in these unstable times."
The two men rose, and gave a small bow of respect to one another.
"I expect we shall meet again at the hearing of my father's last testament as Imperator tomorrow."
With that Alexus turned and left the room. Once outside the guards resumed their flanking positions and followed him out of the Embassy. Those watching this swift exit were left wondering why the prince seemed so eager to leave.
Once back inside the royal coach, Dux-Alexus flipped open the on-board telephone. He input a code which directed him straight to his office at the Consular Palace. One of his faithful personal assistants answered...
"Your Grace, this is quite unexpected! We have urgent news from the tribune...."
"Yes yes I have heard it all. We must act with speed and precision if we are to work this against our advisories to the fullest extent. Compose a Consulate Decree announcing the immediate dismissal of the Tribune, and the commencing of new Tribunal elections. No comment is to be made on either my sister's removal from office or the abysmal shape in which her coalition has left our nation. We must assume this victory with total dignity and majestic silence.
"It shall be done Majesty."
Dux-Alexus ended the call. He then signalled his driver to return to the Imperial Palace. Enough progress had been made for one day. It was time to retire and prepare for the reading of Marcus' last testament, for it would determine exactly how significant Alexus' activities since his father's death had been.
-
Philonexus II couldn't help but think the time flew by today... It was now 9:15 pm, and he had went to his office to prepare a daily report that Prime Minister Osafune III had requested, should Philonexus II have the time.
No objectives have been met.
Ever since my arrival, all that has been discussed was the current political crisis. Although it was not one of our objectives, I am determined to assist Collatica in solving their problems. Doing so should greatly please the Collatican government, and help us out down the road with our true objectives.
As for the current political crisis, things have taken a turn for the worst. Dux-Tribunas Populas Lucia Draconia had greatly lowered her demands for the Dux Princeps, but apparently the Tribune did not approve of this and she was forced to step down from her position. I have recommended to Alexus that he continue to pursue Lucia's demands, but this has definitely made things more difficult.
Alexus seemed to have the impression that we were expecting democratic reforms in Collatica. I quickly assured him that we had no such expectations.
While on the subject of Alexus, call it a gut feeling but I believe he has something planned to be carried out soon. First, he was rather late arriving for our meeting and then he hastily left right after. Again, it's only a gut feeling.
I have been invited to the hearing of the last testament of the late Marcus IV. I don't know how long things will last there, so there may be no report tomorrow.
~Philonexus II
Philonexus II printed out the report and had a secretary fax it to the Executive Palace. Immediately after, he would call it a day and get some shut-eye.
-
The Sun was blanketing the Palace gardens with a golden glow as Alexus sat looking out from his Chamber balcony. He took a sip from his coffee and exhaled a great sigh. He had managed to get very little sleep the previous night, and he felt in no shape for such an important day as this.
One of the Prince's senior security officers entered.
"My Lord, we are set to leave."
"Thank-you Archer. I shall be with you in a moment."
Alexus buttoned up the collar on his imperial uniform and strode out of his chambers, where an entourage of guards, assistants and legal representatives awaited. He greeted them all before leading the most important out to the awaiting cars. It was lucky the Memoria Palace (National Archives) was in this district, for the Prince could barely stand to be in the same car as these legal types for more than a few minutes. As the car proceeded out of the estate and began to traverse along the great avenues of traditional Topeii. In the distance Alexus could see the towering sky scrapers of the commercial and modern districts, representing the triumph and economic boom of his father's reign.
(http://www.hellowashingtondc.com/Images/Photos/972005National_Archives-sm.jpg)
The Memoria Palace and Offices, home to the Imperial Royal & Government legal Archives.
The car turned into the Memoria Palace just as Dux-Lucia got out of her own car and entered the great front doors. As they rounded the fountain Alexus couldn't help but notice the elegance his sister moved with, despite her crushing political defeat and humiliation only the previous day.
The car drew up to the front of the Palace. Alexus stepped out and proceeded up the steps, flanked still by his guards and legal representatives. Once inside the cavernous entrance hall they were shown into the office of the National Director of the Archives, Lictor-Praesul Peter Flavius. One one side of the room sat his mother, as usual not even acknowledging his sister, who sat on the other. Alexus gave a nod to both before sitting between them.
"You Highness, my office welcomes you to this auspicious occasion."
"Indeed Praesul. It is a... honour to be here." Alexus muttered, whilst flicking a glance to a few of the familiar faces from the Tribune, here to relay the accounts back to their masters. The Praesul continued...
"Now we have only to wait for the Collosean Minister, who is due any moment."
-
As Philonexus II's vehicle entered the Memoria Palace, he began to reminisce about the pre-1999 National Assembly building. It was the cultural epitome of Collosea. However, the Executive Palace was heavily damaged in the Second Civil War. The surrounding decor was cleared and replaced with a single war memorial, and the area looks rather empty now. The Assembly building itself was not remade to have all of the splendor the old one had either. Collatica's Memoria Palace's architecture is very similar to Collosea's National Assembly's.
When the vehicle came to a stop and Philonexus II began to stepped out, a Collatican escort approached. "Good day sir, please follow me." he said. This was to Philonexus II's relief, who had absolutely no idea where in the Palace he was supposed to go.
-
The Minister was shown into the Praesul's office, who smiled as he entered.
"Minister Philonexus II, a pleasure you could make it."
The Minister smiled, before taking his seat. Both Alexus and Lucia turned around separately and gave the Philonexus a nod of recognition, before becoming once more immersed in what the Praesul was saying.
"Welcome all to the official reading of the last will and testament of Dux-Imperator Marcus IV. Whilst certainly the specifics outlined in these documents must still be carried out, I ask all of you to appreciate that this was written some years ago."
A murmur of recognition swept the room.
"Right then let us begin... Whilst the full contents of this testament are long and tedious, Marcus wished to only keep you for a short while. As such he wrote a personal letter to you all which outlined his wishes. The remainder of the legal jargen which detail the changes he has ordered will be surveyed by your legal advisers and forwarded to you."
The Praesul pressed a button on his intercom and within a few seconds two aides had entered from either side of the room. One carried a wooden box, the other an electronic key card. Once the Praesul had both of these he swiped the card along the reader on the box before typing in his overide code. At once the lock clicked open, and the Praesul retrieved a sealed scroll from within. This he unrolled, and with a glance around the room began to read.
In the event of my untimely passing or incapacitation, the above persons are to be summoned to hear the following document. This testament outlines the hopes and the regrets of my reign. It also contains my last executive order as Lord Imperator of this great country, should it not already have been carried out. This is an honour given to all rulers of Collatica, though whether it should is another question entirely.
I have never understood such legal formalities, but I must request that all those present sign this declaration, which confirms that you have read and understood my last testament, and are all bound to see it's contents run true as they were intended.
The Praesul looked up, as all those present signed the legally binding declaration. Alexus couldn't stop his fingers trembling as he did so, making his signature quite illegible.
It is with a heavy heart that I write this testament. I like any other man take no pleasure in talking of my death. Nonetheless it is a journey we all must take, and I only ask that in the times after my reign that all those present ensure the continued preservation of our culture and traditions. However this should not be misinterpreted, follow this course of conservation with such moral conduct that the people are given the voice to which they are entitled.
To my wife. All these years you have only looked out for the best interests of myself, my office and our family. Often defending it with such an aggression only I find myself understanding in court. Yet now our time of rule is over, we must trust in the abilities of our children to rule this country with the commitment and maturity it deserves.
To my two children. I am aware that you lead very different lives, with very different ideals. It is easy to see why some of my advisers are already wary of the events which will pass immediately after my death, some even go as far to suggest civil war. This cannot happen. Our great country, which we serve, is not a thing to be squabbled over so violently and in such absolutes. You must learn to compromise.
Now for the formalities. Below are my two final executive orders which all are bound to obey. One is relatively simple, the other will take some adjustment to the entire infrastructure under which we work.
I. It is with great anticipation and excitement that I reveal the confirmation of my heir. Dux-Princeps Alexus Draconia is to be no more. In the true style of the Kings of Collatica he is to be crowned Imperator and Head of State in all of it's capacities. Henceforth, upon his corronation he is to be known as Dux-Imperator Alexus IV. Congratulations.
II. I was once hailed as the Imperator who would give power and sovereignty to the people of Collatica. At the time I was foolish enough to think it a realistic dream. I see now that the people nor the infrastructure of our governments are able to bear such a load. However for the love and commitment the people have given me in my reign, I can at least give them half of what was promised to them. Henceforth, all appointments to the Imperial cabinets (national and local) must be confirmed by a simple majority vote of the Democratic Tribunes (national and local). However other than this I will push for no further changes to the internal workings of our institutions. The Imperator will retain his veto over the Tribune through the cabinet, as well as national sovereignty. I leave it to my able children to guide our nation into the future with a steady hand.
May fate smile upon you. Good luck.
Signed,
His Imperial Majesty, Dux-Imperator Marcus IV.
September 2003
The Praesul laid the scroll down onto his desk, allowing a moment for his audience to collect their thoughts. For the first time in years Dux-Servia had allowed a tear to slide down her cheek. Lucia looked quite shocked, whilst Alexus stared straight through him. It was only the Minister who seemed to be observing the reactions of the family, as the Praesul was.
Suddenly Alexus left his seat. He strode purposefully over to his sister, and took her in an embrace they had not experienced for quite some years. The two then shook hands, and resolved to work together to follow through with their father's final wish as a dying man. Their mother, Servia, was the only one in the room who seemed displeased at the day's outcome.
-
That's it? Philonexus II thought to himself. He somehow expected the late Dux-Imperator Marcus IV to go further then that. Then he remembered it; that was the same thing Lucia said she wanted Alexus to concede to the Tribune. Philonexus II found this to be rather odd... Could that really be just a coincidence? Maybe Lucia had spoken with her father before his passing away? He watched Lucia to see her reactions, but saw nothing suspicious and shrugged it off as nothing more than a coincidence.
-
Once all formalities had been performed, the witnesses were allowed to leave. Some were relieved and even happy to bear the burden of having a legal responsibility to see the late Imperator's wishes through, whilst others left regretting agreeing to be a witness in the first place. Dux-Lucia felt torn between these two extremes. On the one hand it appeared her brother was willing to work with her again, even giving her the insinuation that they might work towards a more reasonable democratic compromise. Yet at the same time she had considered her father's testament to be the fail-safe in her fight for a total revolution of Collatica's governing institutions. Her position in the Tribune had been compromised, no doubt to the point that in the coming elections she would even lose her provincial seat.
It was whilst mulling these thoughts over on the journey home that Dux-Lucia resolved upon the easiest course of action. She would allow her now seemingly politically invincible brother to take her under his wing. With some luck he would appoint her to a junior national office, maybe a cabinet consulate, or a proconsul position (governor) in one of the provinces. From there she could seek to radicalize policy still, in the direction of direct democracy. She saw little other choice in this, if she were to continue to openly oppose her brother her political career would no doubt end this very instant.
Across the city, deep within the Imperial Palace. Alexus furled his uniform jacket into the hands of a waiting servant. A beaming smile across his lips and a glow in his eyes. His position as Imperator had been assured in all legal capacities, it was more than he could have hoped. Even with the concessions his father had ordered, Dux-Alexus couldn't be happier. It was likely that foreign pressure from Collosea would have forced him to make them regardless of his father's testament. The dynasty was secured.
Tomorrow marked the day of the new Tribunal elections. These would influence who Alexus may propose as the new Consul-Prime, and so much of the donated Myrorian funds had already gone into an emergency campaign strategy to attempt to boost the popularity of the monarchists. Additionally even the moderates had received a large anonymous donation earlier that day, there were few people Alexus could suggest as his new Consul-Prime that they would oppose on the spot. Nonetheless a compromise had to be made. This troubled the heir little however, as he was buzzing with excitement for his upcoming corronation and seat on the throne of Collatica.
"Quartus, fetch me a round of glasses and my fine scotch. Tonight we celebrate, tomorrow we end this despicable mess that has engulfed our beautiful nation."
OOC: Unless anyone has anymore to add, I'd like to finish this story. Other threads will be started for Alexus' corronation etc... The immediate crisis has been averted.
-
<ooc>Well should we make a new topic for discussing deals between our countries, or should we just do it through our embassies? I'm more inclined towards the first, now that Alexus has officially taken the spot of Imperator, I would like to invite him to Collosea to discuss these things.</ooc>
-
Certainly. Though that might be better suited to after the his ascension, which your government will definately be invited to.