The Eagle Bleeds

March 7th, 2020, 10:00AM
Antofagosta, Heroes’ Avenue, Predice

The first spring heatwave had hit, transforming the previously bare and cold Predicean landscape into a beautifully sunny and mild morning. Flowers were blooming, their scent drifting lazily through the air, as insects buzzed to and from. Birds sat in the now-green trees, chirping happily as they hopped about branches that were blossoming with flowers of all kinds.

They had no idea what was happening below. The sidewalks were filled with onlookers, as Gendarmes lined the streets. Two flags waved together. The flags of Predice and Xentherida. Tied by blood and steel. A parade commemorated the Xentheridan aid in the Predicean Revolution, which had been instrumental to the Communists' defeat. Predicean and Xentheridan troops marched together, as they passed the onlookers. The people cheered. Then as they passed, the people cheered as a row of royal cars passed by. The royals waved. Among them all members of the Cosonia-Mavoia Branch of the Family. The people shouted together “Avanti Mavoia! Vive il Doge!” Little did many of them know, that this day would change the nation forever.

Doge's Car

"...so as I was saying, I think I'll visit Rajesh soon." Giorgio said to a man next to him
"Brother should be fine" the man responed
"Eh, I want to at least say hello to him. Maybe I'll call him" Giorgio then said
"Sounds like a plan."

Giorgio begins to wave

As Giorgio waved from his car in the motorcade, one spectator looked on with a reaction that hugely differed from the rest of the crowd - a reaction of disgust and hatred.

Fucking parasites. he thought to himself. Parading their victory in the civil war, with the masses just lapping up this opulent display, celebrating their own oppression.

He took a deep breath. He had to stay calm now. He had a plan, and by Corboli he was going to execute it.

The first car passed the corner, with the Doge still waving to the crowds that gathered at the sides of the road as the car made its turn left.

He had to resist the urge to press the button concealed in his pocket. Not yet. That wasn’t his primary target. While it would be incredibly enjoyable to destroy the head of the aristocratic filth, he had much bigger fish to fry. Plus, he didn’t have enough supplies for a second IED.

The second car turned the corner, passing by a particularly nondescript litter bin. Almost, almost…

Just as the second car passed the corner, and the third one approached right at it, he smiled inwardly to himself. Now.

He pressed his trigger.

Within the litter bin across the street, the brief ringing of a phone could be heard, although this was barely audible over the cheers of the crowd. A fuse ignited, and a hundred kilos of Semtex suddenly ignited. Time seemed to stand still as flame erupted, cascading into the air, sending fragments of metal racing through the crowd, piercing flesh and bone. Bodies were cast away like sticks in the wind, cast skywards before crashing into the pavement with a grisly crunch.

The motorcade was rocked violently, the force of the explosion enough to totally roll two of them as shrapnel shredded through the cars and into the occupants. Other cars lurched to the side, the blast wave surging through them and into the surroundings.

The carnage in front of him seemed to unfold in slow motion, and he enjoyed this brief moment of satisfaction. His little piece of revenge against the state that has destroyed his own a decade ago.

But he still had one final piece of vengeance left. A noble sacrifice for the cause.

“FOR COMRADE CORBOLI!” he yelled, before he detonated the vest hidden within his clothing. The crowd had barely a second to react after the first bomb before this second explosion rocked through the throng of people.

Total chaos.

The curbs were full of dead, dying and severely wounded people, the explosions had killed many instantly. The few remaining Gendarmes assist whoever they can, and it isn't long before sirens are heard across the entire metropolitan area, half of the city's red and blue lights were on their way within minutes. It isn't long before the media arrive either. Under particular attention is the Doge's car, where it looks like there are several lifeless bodies. This quickly cascades into a media frenzy...

10:35AM, Doge's Palace, Nuevo Antofagosta

Vittorio stared blankly at the TV screen, unable to believe what had happened, in his blank stare, it almost looked like he wasn't even looking at the TV. It took him a few minutes to process the information, he then began to weep. And he wept, and wept. He vowed that those responsible would hang.

10:36 AM
Golden Palace
Pataliputra, Syrixian Empire

Jodha held Rajesh close as he stared blankly at the television. He almost didn't believe the news unfolding on the screen at first. She cried, her tears flowing down her face onto the shoulder of her husband. He stared blankly at the screen. Once the realization had set in, it was as if his heart had stopped. It was as if time itself stopped. Rajesh and his wife drifted away from the world, floating within a dark void which seemed only half-real, their hands clasped. She was all he had now, and he was all she had. Would she, his love, his best friend, be taken from him too? The faces of Prince Surendra and Giorgio II of Predice flashed before Rajesh's eyes as he drifted further and further.

Rajesh could see the warm smiles of his brothers before him. Giorgio and Surendra had always been together. Whether at school, or learning from Sri Suchinda Ji in the afternoons, or playing together at home, they were the twin pillars that he, the baby of the family, would always lean on; and they in turn would always protect him. Now, in a flash, they were both gone. As their faces disappeared, so too did Jodha. As Rajesh was left alone, a new face appeared in turn. Giulio Corboli laughed maniacally. The old General Secretary of the Communist Party of Predice had taken two final victims. Corboli continued to laugh as he turned and walked into the darkness.

In fact, while it seemed like he had been adrift for hours, after Corboli disappeared, Rajesh blinked to see that only seconds had passed, his wife still clutching him, still watching the television. As he returned from his day-nightmare of grief, his despair gave way to a side of him he had seldom let show. A darkness lay within the normally calm, analytical, and cautious Emperor; that line had been crossed. Rajesh stood, seemingly calmly, and hugged his wife before looking down at the floor and clenching his fists. As he felt the tears fall across his face, he stormed out of his private living room. One of the Sentinels awaited him outside.

"GET ME. VITTORIO DI MAVOIA. NOW."

-----------------

The Star Conquering Traveler: Final Movement: Shimmering Star, by Hirokazu Ando and Jun Ishikawa (Kirby Star Allies OST)

10:40 AM, The Doge’ Palace, Nuevo Antofagosta

A Grenadier Officer quietly knocks on the door, and then he says “Signore, the Signoria need to meet with you. There are urgent matters they need to discuss with you.”
Vittorio quietly responds “Si, I’m coming” in a clearly shaky voice, as he adjusts his uniform.
Vittorio then quietly sobs before stepping out
The Officer quickly wipes his tears with a tissue
“I understand that this must be... incredibly difficult. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through. But you must unite the people. You cannot let up. For the honour of your father. Step up to his shoes” the officer says, softly
Vittorio quietly responds “I will, I promise you, I will”

10:45AM, The Signoria Hall, Doge’s Palace

“So, where to begin... we have a likely dead Doge, and Syrixian Prince. There is chaos on the streets of the capital. We don’t know where either of them are.” a member spoke, frustratedly

“The communists have made a resurgence. We must stop them. For that, we need Martial Law. I propose we send a proposal to parliament to enact martial law.” Another member spoke

“I agree, let’s think this through though...”

10:45AM, The Syrixian Embassy, Nuevo Anotofagosta

“This is a grand sign of Imperialism in our land. We must twist its head off, in the name of Corboli. They shall see, that Communism shall never be extinguished, that the worker cannot be eternally kept in bondage! Alex, are we ready?” A man in the driver’s seat of a minivan speaks, in anticipation

“Si. We are ready.” A voice responds
A Police Officer begins to walk towards the van

“Shit Alex, press the trigger! For Comrade Corboli!” As a wave of fear rushed through him

“For Communism!” Alex shouted in exhilaration

A tonne of explosives is ignited. It utterly destroys the truck, and the front face of the Embassy. The flames lick the embassy

10:50AM, The Signoria Hall, Doge’s Palace

“Word has arrived that another terror attack, likely by the communists again, has been carried out against the Syrixian Embassy. A wave of attacks has been carried out against the entire nation. This is a crisis.” a member speaks

“There have been attacks reported in every region. Estimates range to up to 2,000 dead. Many more wounded. We NEED martial law. Now.” Another member speaks

The phone rings. A member picks it up

“It’s for you, your highness”

“Yes, hello?”

Premier's Office, Turaniskidak Politburo Building
11:04 AM
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Mozhkin Turaniski felt stifled. While his job was no doubt fulfilling, the consistent work of the past few years since his father's death had been completely and utterly exhausting. He needed a break. Yes, that'd be fantastic. He could take a trip down to Marinta, perhaps; he could even go on a boating trip to Tosdodadak. He let out a long and weary sigh, leaning forward on his brand-new oak desk. For now, though, he was reading even more legislation that the People's Congress had sent him for review. It was a soporific document, featuring multiple pages written about aluminium mining regulations. He would most definitely oppose it.

His thoughts were interrupted by the imminence of a young aide's arrival. The man stood in a messy, wrinkled suit several sizes too big for him; he looked to be in quite a hurry.

"Why are you late?" snapped Turaniski, clearly irritated. "My foreign briefing is meant to arrive at 11 o'clock, on the dot."

The aide jumped back in alarm, head bowed in apology. "Comrade Turaniski, please forgive my lack of punctuality; there has been much commotion at the Commissariat of the Exterior. However, not without due reason, you see." He presented a messy pile of papers, and laid them on the desk. "I think the events detailed here will be of particular interest to you, sir."

Turaniski eyed the first paper on the monstrously-sized pile. His eyes widened when he saw the title of the first: "PREDICEAN SOCIALISTS BOMB PARADE". Even more interesting was the "ACTION RECOMMENDED" stamped directly below in red ink. "Interesting..." mused the Premier, clearly intrigued. "I shall read through this, Comrade...?" he looked at the aide following, clearly expecting his name.

"...Maskthren", answered the aide nervously. "Askyrdek Maskthren!"

"Well," he continued, "Comrade Maskthren, I would like you to get the Commissariat of the Exterior to publish a statement on this. I will of course oversee the situation with interest; our comrades in Predice must know that they have our support!"

"Of... of course, Comrade Turaniski!"

"It has come to the attention of the People's Federation that a group of militant socialists within Predice have engaged in efforts to overthrow the disgusting and morally corrupt bourgeois aristocracy that currently resides within the nation. It must be made very clear that Reinkalistan possesses nothing but absolute admiration for the efforts of these heroic comrades, and their dedication to the eradication of the capitalist order that infests Eras. Whilst the tragedy that took place in Predice is indeed upsetting, it must be noted that this is merely the effect of a decadent and decaying administration failing to heed the cries of the Predicean proletariat.

Regardless, the reactionary regime that currently infests Predice must now pay heed to not only the righteous insurgents that opposes its gradually weakening grip on the nation, but the People's Federation of Reinkalistan as well. The Turaniskidak Politburo will not permit the Doge to make use of this event to vilify the workers' movement within his domain. Let it be known across Eras that Reinkalistan will oppose the reactionaries of this world to every end; we will not rest until the hammer and sickle is raised above every fair nation of this world. Predice is clearly where the revolution must begin.

As such, the Commissariat of the Exterior has made its stance evident: Reinkalistan stands for the socialists of Predice, and shall not cease until their dream is realised."

11:21AM
War Room
Military Headquarters

The atmosphere in the War Room was grim. The Communists were back on their feet and coming again. The Predicean Military, totally unprepared, was now being forced straight into action it was hardly ready for. General Mendez was briefing the Room...

"Gentlemen I am afraid we have no other choice but to unilaterally declare Martial Law. The Communists are back in force. Our reconnaissance suggests that there are thousands of Communists emerging from the mountains." He points to several airborne photos. "The main assembly points appear to be here and here. I recommend that we immediately declare Martial Law and move in the Military to support the Police." General Mendez speaks, grimly.
"Additionally, we have confirmation of reports that the Communists possess heavy weaponry." The old General says, clearly. "I will now let my colleauge from the Army to continue the briefing." He finishes. "Thank you General Mendez. The situation is not good. The scant few battalions in the area are unable to effectively contain the situation. Reinforcements from other districts are on their way, but there are reports that Communist Forces are attacking several villages. My friends, it appears that they have turned from insurgency to conventional warfare. This was unexected, to say the least." General Boccelli says. "I strongly suggest assembling what forces we can and to strike back, immediately. We need to at the very least delay them. This means throwing what units we have into the jaws of the enemy. Briagdier Andreotti. I expect you will be ready to do this. This is a very difficult decision to make." He says, confidently. "It is imperative that we locate and destroy their depots in the mountains. Furthermore, we should look out for weapons smuggling attempts. I shall give this over to my colleague from the Navy." He Finishes. "Thank you General Boccelli. The Predicean Navy, in cooperation with the Financial Police and the Gendarmerie is ready to counter all smuggling operations." Admiral Di Tavello speaks, quickly. "Alright. Meeting adourned for fifteen minutes." General Mendez says, firmly.

In view of the events in Predice, the Kingdom of Illderia as an ally of Predice declares full support for the nation. His Majesty's Government is willing to work with the Predicean authorities to put a stop to this egregious insurgency conducted by communist terrorist groups. If needed Illderia is also ready to aid the Predicean government either by economic or military means.

As for the insurgency's support, His Majesty's Government fully denounces all declerations of assistance for the rebels. Therefore the Kingdom of Illderia condemns the actions of the People's Federation of Reinkalistan and enacts the following:

• All Reinkalistani nationals shall be denied entry to Illderia​
• Illderia embargoes the nation of Reinkalistan​

"Attenzione ai cittadini, questo è un ordine di emergenza, evacuate le vostre case in modo ordinato prendendo solo ciò che potete portare!" An officer bellowed through a speaker as the village descended into panic

The jeep moved sluggishly as it attempted to navigate the sea of chaos unfolding in the streets, masses of desperate people were queuing with what few possessions they could carry. Soldiers shouted out commands and tried to maintain some semblance of order but they were few and the villagers were in their hundreds. Trucks were filling up with fearful human cargo, elders, women carrying screaming babes, even the local village priest.

Enrico De Goldi felt a surge of guilt as the private military escort speeded him to his home, his neighbours crowded around trucks while he was given a VIP exit. the government had insisted fearful that his past defiance against the communists would lead to brutal reprisal, he cursed his past misadventure silently. A tank rolled down the street ahead, military helicopters circled overhead.

The thing that bothered him most was how unsurprised he was by everything, it all felt painfully familiar. Ten years of peace under the doge had just evaporated and he simply accepted it, he didn’t have time to mourn the world that was, he had to get his family out. The jeep was being driven by a soldier who couldn’t have been older than 19, the boy reminded Enrico of his youngest son.

“Never thought I'd see something like this” the soldier muttered conversationally as they drove down the main road

“It wasn’t much different when the communists seized power” Enrico replied in a weary voice

That was true at least, the panic had been the same but instead of the army arriving to evacuate citizens and keep order they had arrived to round up traitors and make executions. He had survived those terrible years, lived to see democracy return to Predice, and now he wondered what it would all matter if it was again lost. He shoved the despairing thought down to the pit of his soul and tried to stay focused, he had to get his family out.

The De Goldi Villa loomed ahead, the old brick wall his father had erected would have been a sight of comfort once, now I only filled him with a sense of foreboding. The jeep pulled up and Enrico all but jumped out of his seat as he ran for the door. He had four children; his daughters had followed his wife to Antofagosta, a shopping trip over the school holidays.

He almost smiled at the thought that one of Maria’s expensive outings might have actually saved her and the girls from the madness engulfing the countryside, but he still had two sons to worry about. He knocked on the door, his heart began to beat faster as a long pause followed, suddenly the door swung open to reveal his youngest son Luca. De Goldi all but tackled him with a bear hug.

“Mio figlio, where is Mario?” he asked gently

Luca pointed to the living room “he's in there papa” he said leading the way

They found Mario, Enrico’s eldest, frantically scrambling to fill a travel bag with everything he could carry. Photo albums, framed pictures and his father's awards could all be seen poking out of the overflowing kitbag. Enrico sighed and ran his hand down his face in embarrassment.

“Mario! What are you doing!” He yelled irritably

Mario turned and regarded his father with a look of surprise and shock “We can’t leave these.... they mean so mu” he didn’t have a chance to finish

A shell went off somewhere in the distance, the communists were getting close.

“No, my son, these are just things, you and your brother are the only things in this house that must be saved,” Enrico said embracing his son gently

Enrico released his son and walked up towards the mantelpiece above the fireplace, a small wooden box sat on top. He reached up and took the box in his hands, opening it he showed the contents to his sons. An engraved paratroopers pistol, a picture of his father and mother and a set of wooden rosary beads rested inside.

“Well you two and this, now come, we need to go,” he said as they left the living room.

Outside in the courtyard, the normally tranquil evening was interrupted by sirens, distant explosions and the blaring of speakers. Enrico took one last look at the villa, his grandfather had built the place up from nothing, generations of De Goldi’s had lived and died within the warmth of its walls. Enrico hoped he would not be remembered as the man who lost all his fathers had created. He turned slowly and headed for the waiting jeep.

People's Congress, Turaniskidak Politburo Building
05:05 PM
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Reinkalistan's legislature, whilst in session, rarely fulfilled the democratic mandate it had been nominally designed to fulfil. Instead, in an appallingly vast majority of cases, it merely did what the Politburo demanded of it; the frightening alternative for Congressional dissidents was to face a "knock on the door", so to speak. So when the recent motion was proposed to condemn the Predicean application of martial law upon their nation, the 250-seat body unsurprisingly passed it unanimously. Indeed, the whole chamber was stocked to the brim with Turaniski's sock-puppets.

As motion by motion was voted through, Congressman Vandokoskiy watched, eyes narrow. He belted out "aye" each time he was asked with false yet convincing enthusiasm, but kept his sceptical glare trained on the Congressional Speaker. The indoctrinated, bloated old fool kept on rambling, party propaganda spilling out of his mouth as he recited the same old tirade of how these proceedings were somehow a victory for workers' democracy. This is bullshit. All of it. Vandokoskiy thought to himself. He was the dispensable pawn of a crooked regime, one whose priority lay within maintaining its own grip on power, not empowering the working class. He sighed. This couldn't have been what the revolutionary fathers had wished for. If the workers were truly in charge, what was the Communist Party? What was Turaniski? What was the Politburo? What was the Commission?

Sighing, he glanced at the clock. It'd still be a while before the meeting was adjourned.

The Speaker finally stated the inevitable result of the vote. "This Congress, with the unanimous approval from all representatives who sit in it, does pass the motion proposed by the Prime Commissar to embargo and condemn the neo-imperialist actions of both Illderia and Predice. It furthermore charges the Commissariat of the Exterior with enacting these provisions to ensure the security and prosperity of the People's Federation and her people."

Vandokoskiy groaned as the boot-licking calls of "Hear, hear!" echoed throughout the chamber. What had happened to his country?

"Following unanimous approval from the People's Congress, the Commissariat of the Exterior henceforth wishes to address and furthermore retaliate against the disgusting actions that the Predicean and Illderian governments have taken against Reinkalistan. It has long been a principle of this august workers' state that our embattled comrades across the seas must receive whatever aid possible. Whilst as a sovereign state we cannot commend the actions taken by the communist insurrectionists in Predice, as fellow socialists we cannot condemn them, either. The perpetual revolutionary struggle must go on, whatever happens. What we can condemn, however, is the governments that have acted against us. The sanctions that these failing aristocratic regimes have levied against Reinkalistan are appalling.

Thus, it is decided that the People's Federation shall levy effective immediately a trade embargo upon the regressive oligarchies of Illderia and Predice, and officially condemns their incompetent and malignant administrations. May our comrades face nothing but success in their fight against the oppressive overlords they languish under."

We in Sudo unanimously condemn the vile attacks caused by the terrorists in Predice. We hope that the Predicean government and the other nations involved in crushing the terrorists succeed brilliantly in their aims. Midir is wiling to provide any aid the Predicean government needs to stomp out these terrorists. In addition, we also condemn the actions of the government of Reinkalistan. In trying to sanction our allies in Illderia and Predice, they have forced us into action to prevent harm from coming to our allies. To minimize the economic damage caused by the sanctions from Reinkalistan, the Midranean Navy will ensure the safety of any Illderian or Predicean ships passing through the waters around Kian. Any attacks on Midranean vessels by Reinkalistan will be considered an act of war and will be met with swift destruction upon the aggressors. On top of this, we are hereby halting any trade between Reinkalistan and Midir. This halt of trade is to include any Midranean corporations, the further trade to and from Reinkalistan by corporations based in Midir will be met with a swift freeze of their assets. Midir will not take these actions against our allies lightly and trading with the nation of Reinkalistan will be met with harsh, punitive punishment. We recommend that the Reinkalistani state stand down before it makes a mistake it cannot reverse.

Retnfrask Ironworks
03:53 AM
-----------------------------

On the outskirts of the bustling port city of Retnfrask, there lay a large complex of desolate, abandoned industrial warehouses that once constituted the largest iron-forging conglomerate in Reinkalistan. Tens of thousands of workers would pour in and out every day, working to sweat and bone at the whim of rich industralists, paid next to nothing for their ceaseless labours. Those days, however, were long gone, and now the remnants lay, gathering rust and dust; a felled beast in a metropolitan jungle, slain by the Party's collectivisation program. But in the hulking skeleton of this long-dead industrial behemoth, the lowest scum of Retnfrask's criminal underworld convocated and languished. It was indeed a forsaken place, cast to the side whilst vultures picked at its bones.

Viktor Kasuk lay asleep on a disgusting, stained and torn mattress that smelled of grease and sweat. It had been strewn across the floor next to his gang, his long and matted hair draped onto the unsanitary concrete floor. This was the position he found himself in as he was rudely awoken by a kick to the chest, sending him sprawling over onto the floor. Something dull and heavy struck his head, and everything faded to black.

???, Kaskian Wilderness
06:22 AM
---------------------------------

"Wake up, scum."

Viktor unwillingly complied, squinting at the unwelcome bright white light currently being shone into his face. He instinctively leapt up, aiming to make a run for it, but this was halted quickly by the painful bite of handcuffs digging into his wrists. The light was moved away from his eyes, illuminating his surroundings. He was handcuffed to a chair next to a table in a warehouse of sorts; not the ironworks, though. They must've taken him rather far away. Whoever "they" were.

He slowly opened his mouth to inquire, "Wh- who are-"

This was rudely interrupted by a gloved hand striking a blow across his face. "Speak when you're spoken to." Viktor could taste blood. His stomach sank as he noticed the attire of the two men standing over him. Jet-black suits, with a crimson badge over the heart, displaying a hammer shattering a shield; the Commission for Political Loyalty. He had to resist the urge to scream. You only got picked up by the Commission when you fucked up badly. What did they want with him?

One of the men spoke, his voice low and gruff. "Viktor Kasuk, you are considered to be harbouring counterrevolutionary sentiment, and as such are now completely within the jurisdiction of the Commission for Political Loyalty, as per Section A, B of the Federal Penal Code. Naturally, this means you are charged with doing exactly what we say or facing immediate execution for your crimes. Do you understand?"

"Y-yes." Viktor wasn't sure where this is going. He wasn't a counterrevolutionary. He just lived outside of the law.

"The folks up in Congress need a disposable workhorse to help smuggle arms into Predice, with little ties back to us. You, Viktor, are a failure. You have not contributed to society. Your labours have been for your personal gain, not for the collective good of the Federation. If you died right here, nobody would notice. Nobody would care. Frankly, I'm inclined to do the world a favour and put a bullet in your brain right now." He began pacing around Viktor, who was immobilised and terrified. "But luckily for you, there is one path for redemption, Comrade Kasuk. You can do your part for the workers' revolution yet. You have been afforded a second chance, something precious few get. Your criminal records have been shredded. Your citizenship has been stripped from the records. You're a nobody. We need a nobody. We will brief you on our contacts in Predice. You will comply, or you will die here and now. Your choice, Comrade Kasuk?"

Viktor breathed heavily. Oh, fuck it. It could always be worse. "I comply."

12:23PM
Headquarters of the PVA
The Predicean Alps

"So, Comrade Pietro, how are your men doing?" A man asks, in a demanding tone
"These reactionaries have so far been smashed, due to our current numerical superiority, our two mixed brigades of the Central Army have been momentarily stopped by a foolish reactionary counterattack, but soon the revolution shall reach Alessano." Pietro, Commander of the PVA responds.
"Goood Pietro, kill them, crush them, make them suffer... What of the Northern and Southern Armies?" The man asks
"Comrade Leader, these Armies are also doing great, the Southern Army recently seized the villa of the bourgeois Enrico De Goldi" Disgust could be made out from his tone.
"And what of the Bourgeois Air Power?" The Comrade Leader asks
"They haven't had the balls to send them up yet." Pietro responds, smugly
"Good, I like to hear that!" He opens a whiskey bottle. "To Communism! To the People's Volunteer Army!" The Comrade Leader toasts.
"Si!" Pietro responds happily.

12:30PM
Signoria Hall
Doge's Palace

The atmosphere in the Doge's Palace was far from celebratory, it was in fact, the opposite. The Palace Staff had been scurrying around, gathering up valuables and preparing them for transport abroad, a new exile.

"Your Highness, you must face the people. You must speak." a member of the Signoria advises Vittorio
"I shall do it soon. But first, send troops to dissolve the Parliament. Now." Vittorio responds, resolutely.
"Wha-" the member was interrupted
"Did I stutter? We must disslove the Parliament to allow a quicker and more efficient response to the crisis. I appoint General Mario Mendez as Prime Minitser." Vittorio responds, loudly.
"Now let's take a 15 minuite break. Get the cameras ready." Vittorio finishes

1054
08 March 2020
FROM: Kaiserhall
TO: Bastian Goldreich Army Base

TO ALL RELEVANT PERSONNEL ASSIGNED TO Luftlande-Spezialeinsatzkommando
Due to the events occurring in Predice, His Exellency, the Generalfeldmarschall himself places all rapid reaction units on standby. Every Section 350 classified units shall begin COIN exercises immediately. If deployed, the expeditionaries will be placed under Predicean high command. An expeditionary group shall be created beforehand under Generalleutnant Reiner Steinbach named Kampfgruppe 114. Units under Generalleutnant Steinbach shall be:

• 21. Luftsturmjaegerbatalijon
• 1 KöMI field section
• 2 detachments from the 177. Nachrichtenbatalijon
• 1 platoon from the 89. ULF-Batalijon

Other units from the Königliche Luftwaffe will be attached to the battlegroup for the means of transport and battlefield support. Stand by for further orders

9:37 PM
Bastian Goldreich Army Base, Lükensborg, Illderia

"At least the briefing was amusing" said Corporal Cäser as he entered the barracks with his section.
"Did you see the Colonel's face at the end?"
"Well im sure he isn't happy about this deployment Flo, taking into account his past" Cäser responded to Lance Corporal Florian
"Anyways, what's so important about Predice, you know who wants an overseas *Enneheim" said Roland, a Ranger from across the room.
"No one, but we have the expertise to end it quickly" responded Lieutenant Schott as he entered the section's quarters. "My question is to all of you is that do you want to see a hammer and sickle on a Viktoriaburg building, because the Reinkalistanis are up in arms for those commies up in Meterra."

Everyone stood at attention the second the officer entered the the room. They all answered with a confident "NO SIR"
"Well then, at ease Corporal and keep up the high spirits" said the Lieutenant and left the room.
"That was unexpected"
"It was Cäser, but he's right" responded Florian

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*Enneheim: Braslenian Insurgency's location, and an Illderian province

++MJ12 Bunker, deep underground – Xi Char, Haor Chall++

The meeting had been underway for an hour already but Secundus knew the most contentious subject was the one he had to raise now. He looked around the table slowly taking in the hooded figures around him, whose outlines flicked in the dimly, candle-lit, gloom.

“Fellow councillors,” he began, “we must now consider our response to the regrettable events unfolding in Predice…”

“Regrettable?” interrupted a figure half way down the table, “Regrettable? Outright obscene! How on earth did we not know this was coming? We only signed the Luncstadt Treaty with Predice mere months ago! This is exactly the kind of chaos we are courting with your pushing of open foreign entanglements Secundus! Communists in Predice, pirates in Oclusia – this utter madness surrounds us – why would you have us get wrapped into it?”

Secundus knew the deeply engrained Charrian cultural fear of chaos and disorder was one of the main factors behind the success and stability of their, rather unique, form of government but to encounter it so strongly amongst those gathered in the Council of the Majestic Twelve was endlessly frustrating.

“My dear Capitalis,” he began, trying and failing to keep the condescension from his voice, “Even with the full capabilities of the Echelon Network, the ESD is not omnipotent. They had files on the Communist reactionaries within Predice yes, but clearly they underestimated the threat they posed. A thorough review of these failings will be made, but that is not relevant now – the question is simply how we proceed. I have already re-tasked a major part of Echelon runtime to focus specifically on Predice – in anticipation of intelligence sharing with them - we should ensure we can provide them with a significant information advantage.

We have commitments to them, both through META and the Luncstadt Treaty. I suggest that the only way to combat disorder is to ensure, ENSURE, the resumption of order through the decisive use of power. Ignoring the chaos beyond our borders does not lessen the chaos, nor does it stop it from impacting us – nor can we pretend that every problem can be solved through indirect means. Can we really hope to shape the decisions in Predice – by Communists – through our global economic reach? The limitations of the indirect approach are exactly why this Council took direct power here in Haor Chall. We must mobilise our military and offer Predice our full support, agreed…?”

The Aftokratorian government offers our condolences to those who have suffered because of the evil perpetrated in Predice. We will help the Most Serene Predicean state make it right as the Aftokratorian Government condemns the morally bereft and evil acts of the communist terrorists in Predice, and all who support them. We unilaterally condemn the Peoples Federation of Reinkalistan. Norsos and its people willingly and even happily coexist with outwardly communist states such as Cogoria, but it cannot and will not coexist with communist states that export their revolution via direct or indirect violent means.
We hereby close all access to and from Norsos to all Reinkalistani nationals and citizens, with the only exception being for those who have taken residence in Norsos. Non residents have two business weeks to leave the country, or be trapped within Norsitican borders and be fully subject to our laws as political refugees. Reinkalistan shall enjoy a militarily enforced embargo on its goods, and Reinkalistani foreign business assets in Norsos shall be frozen and seized. Reinkalistan shall reduce its ambassadorial staff to Norsos to one quarter of its original size within one business week.

By order of her Imperial Majesty, Alycia Saitta Loðbrók and supported by parliament majority. In full support of our Luscovan allies in Predice and Syrixia and response to the worsening political climate, the Aftokratorian Government is enacting partial mobilization. Her Majesty is dedicating the Seventh Mechanized Division of the Second Aftokratorian Army to the Most Serene State of Predice. This division will be under Predicean Military Command. In the wake of mobilization, the Norsian Foreign Legion shall be created.

Peace is the most beloved and virtuous of Norsian ideals but time and time again throughout our history, our people have discovered that if we want true peace; blood must be sacrificed.

---

ZEITSCHRIFT FÜR BATASAN (1925-2020) → 2020s → März 2020 → Sitzungen des Batasan





PREDICE AND REINKALISTAN

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Jejomar Adlawan) - 3:30 PM

Mister President, with your permission, I would like to make a statement on the situation in Predice.

Directly in response to a motion from Private Members' Time, sponsored by the Mambabatas for Chapra-Bharat (Ms. Iqra Cholo), and the most recent bill to condemn Reinkalistan in its involvement in the Predicean Attacks.

I have to inform The Batasan that the Commonwealth Security Command have begun conducting meetings to help deal with the crisis in cooperation with all Commonwealth governments, especially the Predicean government. It all took place in the new CSC Headquarters, formerly the headquarters of the Phoenix Union, in the Golden Palace in Pataliputra. The proceedings have been recorded, but due to the sensitivity of the current situation, it has been decided not to release any copies. Transfer of copies issued for the National Legislative Library and other departments will be withheld by the Department of Defense until further notice.

I am sure The Batasan would, with the Lawstoner people, share in the grief of the Predicean people of the tragedy that took place in Predice, more so in the grave concern expressed in the CSC meetings. There is new information. The Attacks were not only limited to Antofagasta. It was all over Predice and local reports have indicated more than 2,000 people were killed in these attacks, most of them are civilians. The Syrixian Embassy was bombed and many casualties are expected. The status of the Doge and Prince Surendra, though the main targets of the attack, are currently unknown.

Our Embassy in Antofagasta has reached out to the Syrixian Embassy to offer some of our offices where they could continue to carry out consular and other diplomatic services. The Embassy has also reached out to the City of Antofagasta and nearby areas where other attacks have been reported. The Embassy invited the Red Heart Society of Lawston and a few other organizations to go and provide relief and assistance to affected persons and families in Predice.

On Tuesday, following the meeting of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on Predice, the Government has taken into account their proceedings and conclusions. Thus, with the help of my colleagues at the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Cabinet has approved a five-point action plan in response to the Predicean Attacks, especially Reinkalistani involvement.

First, we demand the Reinkalistani government to clarify and clearly state their intentions in Predice in order to avoid further unnecessary conflict from the international community, which may precipitate into another crisis. Potentially, an international crisis. The longer the Reinkalistani government ignores the accusations of the international community, the likelier the people of Reinkalistan will suffer from the conspiracy presently-shrouding their government due to the lack of transparency.

Second, we call on foreign governments to reconsider further sanctions on Reinkalistan. While the world is in solidarity with the people of Predice, it would be inappropriate in this time of mourning to quickly accuse. It is unwise to simply take hold of the livelihood of innocent lives and deem them responsible for the actions of their leaders, for the whole world to see. We would be setting bad historical precedents for future governments and generations to come.

Third, we declare our support to The Commonwealth and vow to thoroughly fulfill our obligations in the Second Treaty of Pataliputra. We wish our fellow citizens serving in the Rapid Response Brigades good luck in their sacred duty to help and save lives, not only in Predice, but across The Commonwealth. Just because it is happening in Predice does not mean it will not spread anywhere. We must be careful and become more vigilant in the coming days and weeks ahead.

Fourth, the Government will propose a bill to introduce a comprehensive arms embargo against the People's Federation of Reinkalistan. It may include a freeze on Reinkalistani government assets in Lawston and a moratorium on official credit. The Government will also consider further sanctions in order to underline our condemnation if they admit to the accusations against them or if it has been verified by intelligence services.

Fifth, the Government will propose a bill to ban entry to senior Reinkalistan officials responsible for any form of aid given to the Communist Party of Predice. We will not cater nor allow us to become accountable of holding terrorists in our country and we will certainly not tolerate the use of violence.

We strongly condemn the use of violence to achieve any objective, including the terrorism of the self-styled Volunteer People's Army.

It is our understanding that the Hereditary Prince of Predice, Prince Vittorio, has assumed leadership of his country. It is now for him to decide on what should be done to protect his fellow countrymen and end the crisis once and for all. I ask The Batasan to join the Government in expressing our support to Prince Vittorio and the Signoria Emergency Council to take the necessary steps to restore peace in Predice.

Mrs. Jaya Rana (Magalang and Ghoshal) Mister President, I would like to thank the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs for making his statement. I believe we, the Opposition, would join him and the Government in condemning the appalling violence that caused so much suffering to Prediceans.

Of course, everybody in The Batasan would agree to condemn violence in all shapes and forms. But I believe there are more peaceful solutions to the situation in Predice. Solutions that should be actively pursued, that should've been actively pursued in the first place. Instead, a General Mario Mendez becomes Prime Minister of Predice, leader of an even more undemocratic and unaccountable government under the name of "Signoria Emergency Council." Parliament has been dissolved and Prince Vittorio has absolute power over Predice, power he willingly and exclusively shares with the military.

The Government should not pretend the Predicean Attacks is not preventable. It is no secret Predice, like most autocratic nations in Eras, often infringed and drastically curtailed political freedoms in vain reasons of national security, just to protect the status quo. It is also no secret that suppression always ended in retaliation. In this case, all-out aggression. If Predice simply acknowledged political freedom as a basic right in the 1930s, the Predicean Attacks could've been avoided. No more politically-motivated violence for good.

Mister President, please do not take me out of context. I am deeply concerned for the Prediceans. To lose their democratic voice, their Parliament, in a time of confusion is not only non-reassuring. It is absolutely terrifying. People need answers. Without their representatives, people would not know who else to ask. They would only listen and the only one they can listen to is between a head of state living thousands of miles from their country and a group of scared military servicemen. I am sure the Prediceans are just as confused, concerned, and afraid, as we are for them.

We know what an unaccountable and, arguably, undemocratic government in times of crisis looks like, and we have a very strong and very recent example. And yes, we acknowledge they had a functional parliament at the time. But unquestioned authority is still unaccountable and definitely undemocratic. In the aftermath of the Riksane Massacre, the so-called Dawn Contingency was enacted which gave Grand King Lukas of Andrenne emergency powers. It allowed him to search houses without warrant, arrest, and deport people of Dučrijekan nationality. He even threatened to repeal treaties to take, and I quote, "more aggressive actions." We've seen less compassion to their own people than they had hatred for others who most likely did not know and most likely were only born Dučrijekan. In those circumstances, there are high chances they falsely-accused their own citizens.

So will the Minister and the Government try to use this opportunity to convince Predice that their old ways, by strong virtue of this presage of a crisis, have evidently and hopelessly lost? Will the Minister try to help give the Prediceans their voice back? And if the Prediceans went down the same route as the Andrennians, will the Government continue to support them? Just like what they did with the Andrennians?

Mr. Adlawan I am grateful for the support from the Opposition, except for the fact there are still Mambabatas among us who would rather talk about politics than help in finding a solution. There is a very active crisis, with casualties still mounting and counting. I think we should value the allocated time we use in order to satisfy what is urgently being discussed, but this is why we are a democracy. I commend the Mambabatas for Magalang-Ghoshal in using her parliamentary voice to dare and speak out, which she is very much entitled to do.

Mister President. I hope it will please you to know, for now at least, that my Honorable friend the First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs (Mr. Amihan Dimapilis) will visit Predice to inspect the situation. We cannot send our fellow citizens to face certain death without parliamentary approval, and we certainly cannot push through if we cannot maintain closer review. There will be further visits from the Government. Rest assured, if there are human rights issues in Predice, it will be reported to The Batasan.

Mr. Sunder Ayyar (Nayasandhi-Mohan-Amer) Mister President, I would like to thank my Right Honorable friend in making his statement. It does, indeed, reassure many of us in the backbenches. My Right Honorable friend will be aware that the Predicean community in Lawston are pleased with the efforts of the Government to support Predice and end the violence. He referred to our Embassy in Predice inviting the Red Heart Society and other charitable groups. What is the progress made to provide medical and humanitarian assistance? What other measures will be taken to help the Predicean government? At this point, should we expect anymore attacks? What else does the Government intend to do to help maintain stability in the region?

Mr. Adlawan I would like to thank the Mambabatas for Nayasandhi-Mohan-Amer for his support. But I regret to inform we have yet to see medical and humanitarian assistance in Predice. As I've said, we've only reached out to the Predicean government and we are seeking broader dialogue to open further discussion. We are currently organizing monitors to see what else could be done. And yes, at this point, we should expect more attacks due to the progressing activities of the Communist Party of Predice with their armed wing, the People's Volunteer Army. On what else the Government will do to help maintain stability will be part of our sanctions. It is possible for us to consider wider sanctions if the situation continues to get worse, particularly if caused by the Reinkalistani government.

There is a long way to go. We have to watch the situation with great care. I assure the gentleman from Nayasandhi-Mohan-Amer and The Batasan that the Government will do so.

++Doge’s Palace, Predice++

Ambassador Alex Vidalidis and his team followed the heavily armed guard through the palace halls, towards an area of the building he had not visited before. Armed guards stood at every intersection, rather than being reassuring they mainly gave Vidalidis the feeling of a place under siege. Nevertheless, the clear sense of determination could be seen from all of those within the palace. Eventually they reached the meeting room, their escort murmured something to the guards at the door before turning and, with a brisk salute to the ambassador, left back the way they had come.

The door opened and the Charrians were gestured in by one of the guards. Inside Vice-Admiral Vincenzo Togliatti stood waiting “Welcome your excellency,” he said shaking Alex’s hand as they entered. “Please sit. I don’t have much time, but on behalf of General Mendez I’d like to extend our thanks for your support.”

“Thank you Vice-Admiral, we are here to provide as much assistance from Haor Chall for Predice as possible, in these trying times.” Vidalidis gestured to one of the two men with him, “this is our Defence Attache, Brigadier Mark Pereas. He has some details on the support we believe will be of most use to Predice at present. I should just say, the Council of the Majestic Twelve are more than willing to activate the forces in our Joint Brigade and provide further combat troops should Predice wish us to do so, but we recognise that there are many countries already committing troops and so we have focused on the logistic support we could offer. Mark?”

“Yes Ambassador.” Said Paereas, pulling out some papers from his briefcase and handing them across to Togliatti. “Sir, detailed here are the plans for logistical support we believe would support your current efforts. The Haor Chall Air Force can provide tactical and strategic airlift capability for Predice, we have four squadrons of C-70 tactical transports ready to deploy and one squadron of C-95 transports available as well. As long as we have a secure airbase to operate from, we will be able to keep them fully resupplied with our own airbridge from Haor Chall utilising additional C-95s and our C-200 strategic transport aircraft. These all have the latest defensive suites and so, subject to agreed ROE, the C-70s are able to operate in austere conditions from a minimal runway to deliver supplies and will provide you with significant flexibility in deploying and replenishing your forces.”

“We are content, with assurances from you, of the security of whichever Predicean airbase you would prefer us to use as our main operating base. However, we are also willing to include defensive forces in our deployment, to contribute towards perimeter security – again subject to agreed ROE, of course. These would also be entirely supplied by our own airbridge, to limit the logistical impact for you.”

“Subject to your agreement, the first aircraft can arrive in Predice in around 18 hours. I’ve also been told to inform you sir, that the Council of the Majestic Twelve has pre-emptively ordered additional spares and material for most types of the Charrian communications equipment used by Predice and we will fly these in-country through our own airbridge to ensure you have the necessary supplies to keep your equipment serviceable with the minimum of delays and reduced demand on your own supply chains. Haor Chall is willing to consider similar requests from Predice, where we can produce spares or equivalent parts or equipment to your specifications, and as long as we have the capacity to meet these requests, we will do so.”

"Finally, although the Haor Chall Navy is presently working up plans to support contingent operations against the pirate threat in Northern Meterra, they have kept a number of fleet tankers and one solid replenishment ship spare for tasking to provide a sea line of communications between Haor Chall and Predice, able to ship fuel, ammunition and any other bulk items not suitable for air transport - should that be of use to you. Any questions sir?”

L'Indépendant > Mercanti > Top Stories


by Patrick de Guyconcourt in Saintes
SAINTES – in a press conference earlier today, Saintes mayor Marie-Angélique Koenig-Thoumyre (National) announced that her city would be sending aid to its stricken sister city of Nuevo Antofagosta in Predice.

Attacks in Predice
In a series of terror attacks that have outraged the world, Predicean communist insurgents had targeted the Doge and bombed locations in and around the capital. In the capital of Nuevo Antofagosta, the Syrixian Embassy and various other places were bombed, causing mass casualties and putting the city and country in chaos.

Sister cities
Saintes, the capital of Saintonge; and Nuevo Antofagosta, the capital of Predice, are exclusively and reciprocally twinned with each other - a testament to the close relations between Saintonge and Predice: Seule Saintes est digne de Nouvelle-Antofagaste; seule Nouvelle-Antofagaste est digne de Saintes (“Only Saintes is worthy of Nuevo Antofagosta; only Nuevo Antofagosta is worthy of Saintes.”) The two capital cities have close links with each other.

Aid to be sent
Mayor Koenig-Thoumyre announced the aid and humanitarian assistance to be sent to its sister city: three mobile hospitals and five search-and-rescue teams from the Saintes branch of the Santonian Civil Defence Service (Service saintongeaise de la défense civile, SSDC), plus medical supplies and an initial 500,000 livres in aid. Blood donating stations were also set up at four locations within the city of Saintes. Within a few hours after Ms Koenig-Thoumyre’s appeal was broadcast on Facegram and social media, hundreds of Saintais lined up at the blood donating stations. “I’m here to give blood to a Predicean in need,” said a donor at the blood donating station in Porte Dorée (11^th arrondissement). In front of the Predicean embassy at the Place de Nouvelle-Antofagaste, a makeshift memorial overflowed with flowers left by citizens of the city.

The Predicean TV chef Gino D’Ocampo, a household name in Saintonge and an inhabitant of Saintes for the past 15 years, also launched an appeal for donations and aid for the victims of the attacks, in coordination with the city government. Mr D’Ocampo said that he will be hosting a charity show/telethon in Canal+, featuring him cooking with Mayor Koenig-Thoumyre, various Santonian celebrities, and Prime Minister Anne-Douceline Courseaux. Prime Minister Courseaux used to host the talk show Mères sait mieux, where Mr D’Ocampo got his big break as a TV chef in 2005.

The Santonian National Church also set up a fundraiser for the victims of the attacks in Predice. A special donation box will be present during Sunday’s services to collect money for the victims of the terror attacks.

translation by Kyle MacTaggart-de Flesselles

Politburo Offices, Turaniskidak
17th April, 2020

It has come to the untimely attention of the People's Federation that as of late it has received condemnation from many states worldwide for what they deem to be actions suggesting that Reinkalistan was complicit in the attacks on Predice.

These accusations are, to be completely frank, no less than appalling. Reinkalistan is a peaceable nation, and would never consider aggressive action against the civilian populace of another nation, regardless of how reactionary their administration is deemed. However, it appears that the capitalist world order and "international community" requires a scapegoat through which they may peddle their lies. If standing up for the rights of workers across Eras is to be condemned, then so be it.

The demands of foreign nations will not be heeded. Reinkalistan's intentions in Predice will not be disclosed to the Republic of Lawston. It will, of course, be made clear in abundance that the People's Congress recognises the events that took place in Predice to be a tragedy. Our hearts are with the Prediceans slaughtered on that day. Let there be no mistake. But, in truth, this attack was long in the making. The Doge and his ilk have oppressed the workers of Predice for long enough, and they are beginning to snap. Indeed, the bourgeois aristocracy of Predice is using this attack as a means to demonise their opposition, rather than as a sign that not all are content with their leadership. Instead of taking steps to remedy the situation, Predice has begun using the countless deaths as a political football to peddle their reactionary agenda.

Reinkalistan does not stand for needless killing. As such, we see no alternative but to take a stand in the name of the Predicean proletariat here and now. Many years from now, when the last bastion of capitalist debauchery has been scrubbed clean from Eras, this turning point will be celebrated by the working classes. Reinkalistan will not be seen to the future as a state that abandoned its comrades in their time of need, much less fought against the inevitable socialist tide.

Revolution is sparked in Eras. Try as they might, the vanguard custodians of the old order will not avert it.

The Meterra Economic Treaty Association shares our horror at the vile tragedy that unfolded in Nuevo Antofagosta, the capital of our friend and member nation Predice that took the live of Doge Giorgio and so many others. We condemn entirely and without reservation this act of wanton violence against the people of Predice and it's royal family, and members of the Syrixian imperial family also. We further condemn the escalating violence from a developing communist insurgency intent on overthrowing the legitimate Predicean government, as well attacks aimed at META observer nation Syrixia's embassy. We offer our condolences to all affected by these despicable attacks.

Going forward, META shall be liaising with Predice to provide all conceivable support in both fighting these insurrectionists and in helping to heal the Predicean people. Predice does not stand alone in these times, and we note the contributions already put forward by nations across Eras, pledging to work with all of these nations in resolving these horrific attacks. The Commission urges all META nations to invoke Article 3 of the META Charter and come to the support and aid of our brother Mara, by offering military, intelligence or any other appropriate aid at this time.

We also condemn the actions and words of the government of the People's Federation of Reinkalistan who have indicated support for the these communist insurgents. META calls on Reinkalistan to withdraw their remarks and support for these bloodthirsty murderers, even if they share a similar ideology to the People's Federation. Violence is not the way to establish your preferred regime and should Reinkalistan continue with its irresponsible rhetoric then META will, in concert with other willing nations, be forced to take action against Reinkalistan.

~Tsubo Tsango
CEO of the META Commission

Nuevo Antofagosta, Predice

Lieutenant Colonel Natasja Skíðdal sipped her coffee as she studied her reports. Her 720 soldiers were being kept in reserve- kept there by the Prediceans as they imposed marshal law in hopes of containing the communist threat.

"The men are getting a bit antsy" Major Valgarður Eyvík remarked.

"They're soldiers" Skíðdal remarked.
"They'll stay sitting on their asses as long as they're ordered to. We're here to aid our allies. They tell us when we move."

Eyvík nodded.
"Things are tense out there, ya? Sort of reminds me of home."

Skíðdal shrugged.
"We dealt with the Syndicalist insurgency. Now the communists are popping up again in Predice. It's like a Goddmaned game of whack-a-mole, and no one's able kill the last rodent."

"Reinkalistan isn't helping" Eyvík replied.

"Aye, Reinkalistan. That's why it's important our soldiers stay put. You think those commies in the mountains are fighting by themselves? I wouldn't be shocked if the Reinkalistanis had people and guns funnelled in. We need to be ready to hold the line when the Communists escalate. And they will."

Natasja continued to read the reports, the pristine folders now crumpled where her thumb pressed against the inside of her hand. She was tense, but she was keeping her nerves in check. She'd seen action and blood, during the Prydanian Civil War. She and Valgarður had come up through the officer corps together. Battlefield promotions at first. The dark days of the struggle against Syndicalism. She felt it in her bones.
"Goddamn it" she muttered.
"I shouldn't be old enough to feel shit in my bones."
Yet she did. And she hated it. She'd joined the FNU to fight for her home against the Syndicalists who collectivized her family's farm and sent her parents to a mining pit they never returned from. She'd joined the FNU to make the world around her better. And through all the war, all the fire, and all the fury what did she have? A military career. More drills, more soldiers. And now? Potential for more bloodshed.
And yet she was determined to do her duty despite the grim realization that the peace she sought would be for others but not her. A small part of her hoped that she and her soldiers would not be called upon, yet a larger part of her wanted to prove herself. In spite of everything, she wanted to prove herself. And chase the dream of an unconquerable peace.

1:30PM
Doge's Palace
The Hall of the Greats

A man sits on a chair.
He is flanked by two Cuirassiers, each bearing a Predicean Flag.
A man behind the camera begins to count down:
"Three, two, one and..."

They were live. The man began to speak...

"Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Prediceans, our beloved people. As we all know, our nation has been struck by the Communist Terror once more. The cowards struck without shame, and killed many of us. They shall not be forgiven. There shall be no quarter given. We shall additionally, never forget, nor shall we forgive the fools in Reinkalistan, supporters of traitors and murderers. We shall also never forget the help given to us by our foreign friends. Though our Eagle may be bloodied now, she shall strike back with avengeance, our nation shall weather this storm as it has weathered many others! May God bless you all! May God bless our great Nation!"

"Signore, you did well! Good job." The man behind the camera congratulated Vittorio
"I did fine." Vittorio Responds

7:30PM
Doge's Palace
Vittorio's Personal Quarters

A young officer ran through the palace, throwing up ragged salutes as he went, before reaching the door of Vittorio, he knocks and enters.

"Signore! We found them!" The Officer began

"Who?" Vittorio responded without hesitation

"Your father, and Prince Surendra!" The officer quickly responds.

"Take me to him, and inform Rajesh." Vittorio responded

11:35 AM
Fortrezza San Marco, Vittoria, Predice

"Gentlemen! Welcome to Fortrezza San Marco. This will be our base of operations for the duration of our deployment." Said Commandant Mayer as Wilhelm Company was entering the base. While the rangers and attached signal corps troops were getting ready to start operations, the KöMI detachment was already at work. For this deployment 5 of the 8 KöMI agents were drawn from the SEK department.

"Okay everyone, what do we have at hand. Ezra hand me the report" Said Lieutenant Christophe while looking at the map of the Predicean mountains on the table. Ezra handed him the report and began to set up their comms room with the help of some other KöMI officers.

Back at the W Company barracks Commandant Mayer was already setting up a patrol, to see how things were running after the Parliament was dissolved. He quickly held a briefing before the troops moved out.

"So you are the lucky ones that are going to start everything. Alright, so, you'll start here *points at map*, at Ansaldo. Search for anything suspicious, try to work with local authorities, Predicean Army Bersagliere will also be there as liaison support and a few boys from the 177th Signals will be attached to you. Also, Predicean Intelligence and KöMI provided us with some intel. There is a nearby communist hot zone in Giunfelfo, here *points at the town*."

"What's ROE sir?" Asked Cäser, one of the section leaders

"It's still Card Ärger, so do not fire unless fired upon and also keep in mind, we are here to help, not to deal with the whole situation by ourselves. If you run into resistance, let the Prediceans do the dirty work and we'll support. The signal guys will take care of CAS or artillery. That's all gentlemen, gear up and godspeed."

As Mayer stepped out of the briefing area, he turned around and added "Oh and please don't turn the town into a crater, i don't want to do paperwork tonight". Everyone nodded and prepared to go out.

11:47 AM
Ansaldo, Vittoria, Predice

After Cäser's section dismounted out of their MRAPs, Aadrian asked him sarcastically

"So what are we doing here again?"

"Very funny Sergeant. Aren't you supposed to run up with Roland to find those Prediceans?" Asked Cäser back. Sergeant Aadrian was Cäser's de facto father at this point. They were first deployed together in 1997 back when they were in regular infantry regiment. Both of them were present at the infamous Enneville Ducal Parliament Incident and Aadrian was deployed to Braslenian Penninsula more than 5 times.

As the Aadrian goes up with Roland to talk with Predicean liaison, Florian comes up to Cäser

"So what are we looking at Corporal?"

"The Sergeant went up with Roland to talk with Bersaglieres, whats with the signal guys?" Replied Cäser while grabbing map of the area out

"They're with the Lieutenant. Also he scrapped some Prydanian engineers to help with IEDs, if we find some." Said Florian

"What are the vikings doing here?" Asked Cäser

"We got a small engineer detachment. Most of their forces are in Nuevo Antofagosta, i think." Said Florian while going after Aadrian and Roland

"Well, at least we have some hardened soldiers with us" Murmured the corporal to himself. As he turned around to light a cigarette, Roland came back.

"Corporal I got some info! The Bersagliere guys said that they may need some help, they're undermanned. Also we have a possible AA site near that commie hot zone that the Commandant mentioned, also one of the locals said that small insurgent patrols are seen near the rail yard, but the Bersaglieres don't have enough resources to defend every inch of the town." Said Roland

"I'll get the section together, you tell that to the Lieutenant." Said Cäser and started running towards his MRAP while grabbing his radio "Wilhelm 1-Bastian this is Wilhelm 1-2, we're moving to investigate the rail yard, out."

March 8th, 7:11AM
North Antofagosta General Hospital ICU

The room is hectic. Doctors are making their last deperate efforts at saving the lives of Doge Giorgio, and Prince Surendra, both of whom are deteriorating rapidly. The exhausted Vittorio, having sat at his father's bedside through the night looks on, as doctors desperately tried to save his father's life, the dials and machines had always unsettled him, but now, they slowly seemed to be turning him crazy. Tears begin to roll down his cheeks, when it becomes clear, that the attempts are of no use. He is informed, that Rajesh is on his way, but that they would likely die before his arrival.
Vittorio orders: "Get my father a priest, at once." A young Officer quickly runs to the neighbouring church. Vittorio desparately holds back tears.
Finally a doctor utters: "We have done all we could. I'm sorry, your Highness."
Vittorio responds: "Thank you for caring for them for as long as you could. I understand" His voice was cracking.
"Please excuse me" he follows up, as he pulls out a tissue.
The Grand Marshal of the Palace walks in, and immediately understands what has happened. He walks towards Vittorio, and begins to comfort him.

At last, after having fought their last fight together, both Giorgio and Surendra pass away. The room suddenly becomes quiet, as all those in the room quietly hang their heads. Vittorio and a few others quietly sob. The sentries outside meanwhile, stand to attention as Rajesh approaches. Just as Rajesh Enters, the machines begin to flatline.

March 8, 2020; 7:16 AM
Nuevo Antofagosta, Predice

It was as if the universe was taunting him. A single step into the room and he was greeted with that noise. That damned noise. That single noise - a declaration as cold as the bodies that now sat empty of life in the emergency room - snatched away from him and from the world two legendary men, two brothers who had stayed strong as children in the face of the Emergency, who defied all odds to fight one dictator who tormented their family from abroad and another would-be who had done so at home, and who defied all odds to form a bond of family. They had inspired him, been there for him, advised him, and supported him over the years, and they gave him the greatest gift one could give him when, twenty years ago, Prince Surendra refused the throne: they had given him the chance to prove himself to their father's ghost. Their father had repeatedly lambasted him over the years as naught but a "lanky, ill-bred boy". His brothers, just nine years his senior, were more of fathers to him than his real father ever had been. And now they were gone. Corboli's ghost had dragged them down with him.

It had been a couple hours since he had entered that room. He now stood in the hospital chapel. An aide had told him it may be best to go - he needed to convene the Signoria Imperiale and appoint a new Doge. Predice certainly could not afford a lack thereof at a time like this, and it was his duty to the Prediceans as their monarch to confirm Giorgio's successor. That conversation was five minutes ago. The Emperor's aides and guards, understanding his personal situation, had been letting him take his time when he suddenly turned around. To the aide he had briefly talked with five minutes ago he simply asked, "I assume there's a CCTV feed in here?" to which his aide responded, "Yes, Your Majesty." Rajesh nodded, then turned to the Sentinels present. "Turn off the feed into this room, and clear out." he replied firmly. The aides were a bit confused, but the Sentinels, well-trained, cleared themselves and the aides, as well as all others in the room, out, and, about a minute later, the dim lights on the two security cameras in the room went off. Rajesh chuckled to himself slightly, then turned to face the altar. If the Prajapati was all gods, then it seemed it would be the Messianist God and His son who would hear him today.

"Mujhe aasha hai ki aap jaante hai ki aap kitne chutiya hai."* he said, in the altar's direction, turning to face the cross. His face was one of utter contempt, but with a sadness behind it only grief could bring. "Is this funny to you? Because I can't help but feel like it is." He paused, looking down briefly, then looking back up. "No. Wait. I know what this is. You're just vindictive. Because when I see these things, especially this - you taking the people I love most from me in a moment - I see into the soul of the universe. I see into your soul. I see your beauty. I see your cosmic divinity. Sure." He scoffed. "But you know what I see most of all? Hatred. I see your hatred. This must be for Gowalkar,† isn't it? Because it's all the same to you. All murder is evil. Never mind that Gowalkar nearly destroyed a nation's shot at freedom. Never mind that what I did and what I do has always been for freedom. For order, and for prosperity. Aren't those things you're supposed to love, to embody? Or have the gurus and the priests and the kohens been lied to this whole time, you sniveling manchild?"

"Millions of new jobs and investments at home and abroad, new alliances and trade opportunities, a stronger and more united Commonwealth, a technological revolution, we stand once more as one of the pillars of the world -- I've raised three children, for fuck's sake! A-a-and none of that's enough for you?" Rajesh paused again, smirking briefly. "You know what you are? I'm not talking to a god. I'm talking to a parasite. You exist to feed on the lives of your human dolls, you sanctimonious little shit. You feed on the violent tug of war you created between life and death, between happiness and sadness, between peace and war. Politics is my game but life itself is yours. As barbaric and cutthroat as it seems much of the time, politics has rules. Unwritten rules that guide every move someone makes on the chessboard. But you, you have no rules. You don't make moves, you just cut giant holes in the chessboard for whatever reason you feel like at that point in time. And yet you dare to punish me for what I've done? You're present in everything, and that includes mirrors, so take a good look in one!"

"Kya main vaastav mein vishvaas karta hoon ki yah ek sundar prajapati hai? Ki yah ek divy prajapati hai? Ki yah ek buddhimaan prajapati hai?"‡ bellowed the Emperor in Suchari, in the tongue of the gurus. "Apnee sazaon ke saath narak karane ke lie! Yadhi aap mere saath apne khel ko khelne ke lie dridhi hai, to khel shuro hone den!"§

"Apnee sazaon ke saath narak karane ke lie! BHAAD MEIN JA!"¶

Rajesh sighed. Tearing off a pearl from his Sambhanti Dhakan, he then lightly threw said pearl at the communion cup. Though just barely, he missed. The Emperor of All Predice then turned to exit the chapel. He was off to confer with the Signoria. He turned off the light and, without looking back for even a moment, closed the door.

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* MERCANTI: "I hope you know how much of a fucker you are."
† Referring to Sachin Gowalkar, a State Department clerk who was discreetly assassinated by the Darshak after accidentally discovering the Government's plans to rig the Kanadian election in favor of Anne Ulburg and her Liberal Party.
‡ MERCANTI: "Am I really to believe that this is a beautiful universe? That this is a divine universe? That this is a wise universe?"
§ MERCANTI: "To hell with your punishments! Since you seem determined to play your game with me, then let the game begin!"
¶ MERCANTI: "To hell with your punishments! TO HELL WITH YOU!"

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The Long Song, by Murray Gold (Doctor Who Series 7 OST)