The Independent Order

Roleplay => Diplomacy and Events => Topic started by: Achkaerin on June 21, 2022, 11:56:52 PM

Title: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on June 21, 2022, 11:56:52 PM: While most of Mundus, had at least going off of initial reactions, been busy celebrating the discovery or rather unveiling of Princess Kyoko the mood in Valtheim was without question very different, there was an air of fury about the place, the high ranking intelligence figures, the advisors and even the Emperor himself were all trying to figure out the answer to a question - how had this happened? How had this information got leaked? Nettie Taylor (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg181#msg181), who herself had only had possession of all the facts for a few hours, stepped into the study of the Marble Palace and found Peter (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg157#msg157) perched on the edge of his desk talking to the head of Achkaerinese Intelligence Sally Barkley (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg4575#msg4575)
"INIS think it was the Anausa." Nettie said
"So they've followed a different set of instructions but still built the same model." Peter said "Who the hell leaked this?"
"I don't know." Sally said "It was a tight circle."
"It's Charles I know it's Charles." Serenity (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg170#msg170) said coming into the room "Only person with an axe to grind."
"So if he knows how does he know?" Peter asked
"There was one Rokkenjiman apart from Cecelia who knew." Sally said "Akane Fujimoto"
"Cecelia's Lucinda." Peter said "I remember her, she had a lot of intelligence responsibilities in those days."
"Charles was Cecelia's inside man, Iso's to Shillings Akane was the liaison." Serenity said, Peter sighed and looked across at Nettie
"You'd better get Evanthe, Kyoko, Emerson and the rest of the circle on a plane up here." the Emperor said "The time has come the fox said to talk of many things, of skies and seas - and the oaths we took - of Emperor's and Queens, of the promises made and the secrets long kept."

In Pyrena the Viceregent Emerson Ravenswood (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg970#msg970) walked into Evanthe's study and put a sealed letter on the desk "Much I wish I could say that's the booking for a weekend away somewhere it isn't." he said "We've been summoned to Valtheim, you, me, Kyoko, Cecelia, Yuriko and Cole junior." he smiled at Evanthe's expression the last time an Achkaerinese Monarch had 'summoned' the Rokkenjiman one had been during the 'great schism' "That's not in Peter's hand it's in Cecelia's, it advises you and the others to go. It's what's called a break glass in case of emergency letter. We can be in the air within two hours."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on June 23, 2022, 01:17:30 AM: "The Imperial Ryūsei and the Concorde can be airborne much sooner, though we'll be taking the Imperial Concorde in addition to a cover story as to why it is flying to Valtheim," Evanthe said with a grin. "I do believe it is best to address what cannot be approached via video links and it would give me a chance to check up on the Crown Princess in person. I've had a brief that while our reveal of Princess Kyōko has given us space in front of potential trouble makers we may have inadvertently given Groves a prize," Evanthe paused for a moment. "Princess Kyōko is the sister of the Saisei Empress, a descendant of Islyna, and she shall be accorded all the rights and privileges of her birth," I realize what INIS was doing however there is now a legitimate argument that Princess Kyōko, who shall ultimately serve as Matriarch of the Anselmo Family, what with Cecelia still bearing the scars of her confinement and the Saisei Empress facing her own illness. Regardless of what we do these may yet prove to be turbulent times. With the Enthronement before us it couldn't have been timed more perfectly. Anyway, let us depart," she continued and, relatively shortly, they would be joining their counterparts in Achkaerin.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on June 24, 2022, 12:31:26 AM: There was no pomp and fanfare, no this was as low key as possible, no sooner had the Rokkenjiman's landed than they were in cars and driven away. Clearly the presence of the vast majority of Rokkenjiman royalty on Achkaerinese soil was hard to miss, so with the Mundus Games coming up several Rokkenjiman teams had been invited up to an invitational event in preparation for the Games, the visit had been hastily advertised as the Rokkenjiman's showing support for their athletes as such they were joined by Achkaerinese counterparts in the stands before a few hours later heading to the Marble Palace, they were shown to the lounge. It was just the royals either waiting were a small number of others including Xiao Mei (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg20162#msg20162), who'd flown back from Lijiang for this, upon seeing Kyoko Mei hugged her.
"As you can see there are a few things that need explaining." Peter said "In all honesty I never thought this would happen, in fact the closest we came to having this conversation was when Beatrice was almost assassinated, but that in itself perhaps vindicates Cecelia's desire at the start of this, ensuring that the line was unbroken. This is a rather brutal story for all of you in one way or another but I want to make this clear the decision Cecelia made is one that made a great deal of sense at the time, and the decision that I made to enact it comes from the compelling way Cecelia put it. I can't guarantee you'll like what you hear."

Peter took a breath "As you all know following the First Patriotic War the Anselmo family ended up living in exile in Gowu. In 1985 Cecelia gave birth to Beatrice, at that point the bloodline was secured and she began planning her attempt to take back Rokkenjima, a few years later in the mid nineties Cecelia became pregnant for a second time, I was newly appointed as the defence liaison in Gowu at the time, Cecelia decided that she wanted to hide this second child as an insurance policy, a way of preserving the Anselmo line, in case anything happened to Beatrice's branch of the family. Mrs Barclay?"

"An operation of this type requires a lot of planning." Sally said "Step one was constructing the cover story, taking into consideration various factors we chose the Xiao family as the foster family, the fathers side of the family from Lijiang, the mothers side the Marino's from Rokkenjima so the child would be able to retain Rokkenjiman citizenship and then of course there's the step sister." she pointed at Mei "So while Cecelia was pregnant in Gowu, Isabella Xiao was 'pregnant' in Freshwater, a required step in explaining where Princess Kyoko or rather Lucretia came from. On the day you were born Princess, you weren't in Gowu long after..." she glanced at Peter

"Iona delivered you, you were transported to Freshwater. A story about Cecelia having miscarriage was put out and up in Freshwater the Xiao's were introducing you as their daughter. The rest you know you made your way to Rishiri." Peter said "We are concerned about the leak because this was a tight circle but that's what we'll come onto shortly."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on June 25, 2022, 06:04:31 AM: “A manufactured life and existence, yet all the experiences were so very real. I do not yet know how to resolve these conflicts, but the revelation that my life was some sort of an insurance policy, a box with which one may break glass in case of emergency, not one of you can take the sting from that. Who I am now, with my education, I can see the logic behind these decisions, though none of the pain is erased due to having that knowledge. I have the life I lived, the life that passed me by, and the joining of the two. Emperor Peter, I require a room in which I may be alone, to resolve these thoughts and figure something out, so please direct me there now.”

“I had no other choice,” Cecelia said, to which Kyōko glared. “Somewhere in your perfect plan Beatrice and I ended up crossing paths, mother is that not a glaring failure in your design? You all allowed her and I to become best friends and no one thought that this was perhaps in some manner perverse? I need to be away from you, at least for now, so I can gather what thoughts I have left. Xiao, it is nothing against you, but I need to collect my thoughts. At least we have happy memories to share between us, and we shall focus on those.”

Once Kyōko had been removed Evanthe sighed, “This is one right mess, is it not? But it does raise the question as to why INIS was capable of picking up on this at this stage, and just before the Enthronement of the Crown Princess. Someone wishes to cause trouble and they’ve gone a long way to doing so. We must ask ourselves who would wish to do so, why they would wish to do so, and what do they seek to gain.

“Who stands the most to gain from the chaos which would result in this becoming public?” Evanthe asked, returning her gaze upon Emperor Peter. While she was emotionally conflicted, she recognized she had to remain composed.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 01, 2022, 08:15:47 PM: "The big mistake people make is in assuming big moves require a great number of pieces." Serenity said "The truth is the more pieces on the board the more likely a stalemate or failure is, the fewer pieces, the less there is stop checkmate. There are three pieces this time." she placed a Queen, a King and a Pawn on one of her dad's many chessboards, pointing first to the King. "The clear person with an axe to grind is Ofdensen, he's got the motive, does he have means? Only if he knew about Kyoko because he can't tell what he doesn't know." now she pointed to the Queen "Back in the nineties he was Cecelia's inside man in the Federal Republic Government his handler was Akane Fujimoto, who to put it simply is to Cecelia who Lucinda is Beatrice and who Gemma is to Asuna. Akane knew about Kyoko, as one might expect given her position, and we think she may have mentioned Kyoko to Charles back then. It's also worth noting two further things, Akane was never reported dead in ninety seven, as far as we know she's MIA presumed dead but the thing is..."

"The thing is." Peter said looking at Cecelia "You told Charles where you were landing, he used that to set the trap but you still needed someone to lead you into it, someone like Akane, we think she knowingly led you into that trap."

"We wouldn't think it unless present circumstances could explain it." Serenity said "So opportunity - Charles is safely and securely locked up in Coral Reef he doesn't have the capability to call up the INIS without sounding a lot of alarm bells. Akane is officially MIA, if she popped up there'd be too many questions and she's way too a valuable a piece to throw away on something as menial as a mail drop. However the INIS is accountable to the machine of democracy, it converses with committee members, it's not difficult to see a path for the information to get to them, from the right Representative or the right Councillor..." she paused for a moment tapping the pawn "The mistake we all made was we assumed Charles to be an opportunist who tried to leverage the circumstances of the Andean Genocide for personal gain, but considering his desire and motivation he's a planner not a seat of the pants type of guy, what if he's been playing the long game all this time?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 02, 2022, 02:18:44 AM: As Cecelia remained silence Evanthe rolled her eyes as the word "Councillor" was uttered. "Randolph Groves," she said without elaborating further for a moment. ""He's already argued that my reign is unconstitutional and illegal and, lo and behold, Kyōko is revealed. If anything we may be thankful that INIS didn't allow for control of the narrative to fall into their hands, however, I would be willing to bet that Groves is the pawn. Ever since I rebuffed his advances he's been a thorn in my side, though acting to destabilize the Imperial Government, well, previously I wouldn't have suspected him of being that petty. Unless there is someone else you were suspecting, I would recommend we look into Mr. Groves and where he was in '97."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 06, 2022, 07:38:30 PM: "We're already doing that." Sally said "Remember though assuming there is a plot afoot it's one of Charles design and I don't think we've seen anything yet, there may be more players, more secrets, an endgame we haven't the first clue about yet, we'll figure it out but it'll take a bit of time. Meanwhile Kyoko represents an unknown quantity, we don't know her role, is she a weapon, a target, what's her part in this? However she's better in your house than outside it, easier to monitor, easier to protect, easier to counter."

"So the question is what we do now?" Emerson said "I've got a couple of ideas."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 07, 2022, 11:33:27 AM: "And I would love to hear them," Evanthe replied, "but from this moment forward we operate under Citadel provisions. The Ardians couldn't get the job done against the Anselmo line, the Republicans failed likewise, some rat rotting in a jail cell will not succeed where they failed. We move forward, with due care and attention, and with the full strength of the First Empire protecting our legitimate government. It is fortunate that we have mock-ups of the Diet's Chambers aboard the Ashinxao, because that shall be their home for the foreseeable future, whilst the People go on about their business as if nothing out of the ordinary is occurring. Military command remains with the Empress so," Evanthe paused, "they understand what Citadel provisions are so nothing which doesn't come directly from my mouth over authorized ICON signals is done by them."

"With that being said," Evanthe turned to Emerson, "what ideas do you have?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 09, 2022, 12:37:51 AM: "There are two issues." Emerson said "First we have the political, she's a new Anselmo, she's by virtue of being Beatrice's sister higher up the line of succession than you but Beatrice chose you that carries weight. That said we don't know her role, we need to control the situation, if she's going to be out there on official duties, talking policy and all that then she does so as a part of this government and communicating our policy. Appoint her Imperial Councillor for Foreign Affairs, that gives her advisory role in the government, she answers to me, she answers to you, we can watch her. Chances are if she is playing a part in this her role involves being close to decision making, we control the narrative." he paused "Now that would mean Yuriko will need a new home..."

"We've got that covered." Serenity said "We have a bi-election coming up, one of the candidates is currently our Royal Liaison Officer a position they have to resign from to run. That creates a vacancy we'd offer to Yuriko, liaising with government departments, sitting in on cabinet meetings, advising us on things. Sounds like your kind of thing,"

"Issue number two." Kayleigh Pryde (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg672#msg672) said looking at Evanthe "Is the safety one. My job is protecting your family, so while I don't want to tip our hand I will be tightening security, until we have an idea of what we're dealing with it's official duties only, no surprises, no drop ins, if it isn't in the diary it's not happening. I will be putting an agent on Kyoko as well, that won't be unexpected we're known to provide your security. I don't know the nature of the threat if any but I can at least narrow the options down. Keep you safe while intelligence plays catch up."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 09, 2022, 04:45:55 AM: "We need not necessarily displace Yuriko," Evanthe replied, "before, even in the Saisei days we have had an Imperial Councillor for Foreign Affairs and an Imperial Liaison for Foreign Affairs. The later is a position appointed by the Empress for individuals trusted to speak with her authority on the matters in the purview granted to them. I do not believe Princess Kyōko will be someone to cause disruptions herself, even in this short time the bonds she is forging with Crown Princess Asuna have been apparent to everyone in Pyrena Castle, thus I believe that appointing her Imperial Liaison for Foreign Affairs would be sufficient to our goals. She will naturally consult with you on such matters as Vicegerent, but she will have the authority of the Crown backing her as a person empowered by the Empress of Rokkenjima."

"On the second matter we will proceed as advised in addition to Citadel provisions. This multi-tiered response will most likely give us the best well-rounded protection," Evanthe continued. "I have word from Imperial High Command that members of the Diet are being boarded upon the Ashinxao as we speak. The word being given to the RBC for their departure is an annual drill which will proceed for two weeks, to ensure that our capabilities in operating in any and all conditions are as they should be. RBC has assured me that the story will be released outside of key time frames, most likely this coming Friday news dump. We may thus proceed from that point."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 12, 2022, 10:07:47 PM: Sally took a breath before looking at Evanthe "Your Majesty I say this with the greatest of respect but the Viceregent's play is the right play." she said "We don't know the full extent of this conspiracy that appears to be taking shape, but if Kyoko is part of it then the chances are it involves her being in the decision making position not in the advisory one. Put her in the position where she helps shape policy and we may draw out more actors. Also consider that whatever this is has been in the works for a while so having both of Rokkenjima's most notable Premier's from the Beatrice era in the same place to help piece this together is to our advantage, we just need the cover to do it, and we all know Kyoko may lack Yuriko's experience but that doesn't make her any less knowledgeable. Better to do this right than with one hand tied behind our back, use the proper tools rather than the wrong ones."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 15, 2022, 07:59:38 AM: "We shall proceed as advised then," she said as she cast a look to Emerson. "As the Imperial Naval Intelligence Service was largely insulated from the influence of Charles we must then cast our gaze to areas of the Imperial Government where he would have had the influence to appoint his people, who would view their service to him as a higher calling than their service to the Empress. To my knowledge, excluding institutions we've already rooted out, the Imperial Household Ministry was his previous remit. There remains a chance that in our efforts to clean house there may be some lingering influences there. I believe that is where we should start."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 17, 2022, 04:31:11 PM: "Knowing Charles he will have planned this for a while." Sally said "He may have made moves that you're not aware of. So question everything, you are in the position to discover those moves if they exist. Meanwhile on our end we will try to figure out what Charles is up to and what his endgame is."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 21, 2022, 03:18:24 AM: "Allow me to speak with him," Evanthe said. "If there's one thing I know of the man is he's always proud of his work, and I know a few buttons I can push if need be. Perhaps, through speaking with him, we can yield answers more quickly rather than trying to look at this from the outside, so to say."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on July 29, 2022, 11:30:15 PM: "I have no doubt that some point someone will have to talk to him." Sally said "But if we do that then we run the risk of tipping our hand and Charles then either accelerating or changing what he intends so it's a trade off. Whether we rattle his cage or not we need outside information. As I said you have that ability when you return to Pyrena, look into it, question anything that doesn't quite add up, question anything that might conceivably be or have been in Charles's interests as well. Figure out the shape of the game."

"I have my suspicions on some of that." Emerson said

"So do I." Serenity said
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on July 31, 2022, 06:15:13 AM: "His communications are monitored and managed," Evanthe chuckled, "he has no links to the outside world that aren't controlled by the walls and bars which surround him, as are those links in the prisoners he associates with, hence the risk in showing him our knowledge is eliminated. In this case it is best that we go to the source, let him take pride in what he's done and reveal the totality because that's all he has left at this point. His plans will not succeed, but if he can explain why his vision is perfect to another ear, it'll be good enough for him. I know this bastard, give me five to ten minutes in a room alone with him and I'll have all the answers I need to navigate these times."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on August 03, 2022, 03:18:52 AM: Evanthe came to accept that a meeting with Charles wouldn't be the best course at this time and instead turned her focus to Tamaki Kado, Director of the Imperial Naval Intelligence Service, via a videochat. His agents continued their work and, apparently, he had information to relay.

"Thank you," he said as Evanthe transferred the call to a larger screen. "Our investigation to date has taken us down some unexpected roads and, at present, is focusing upon CFO's time as head of the Imperial Household Ministry. It was perhaps in this period of time he was at his strongest, with vast influence over the Anselmo fortune as well as managing the day-to-day operations of Pyrena Castle and even having a hand in the health care decisions of the Imperial Family. This leads us to my first area of concern," he paused, "as it is during this time we begin to see a decline in Empress Saisei, increasingly erratic actions and decisions being taken and, whether one liked Empress Saisei or not, prior to this period of time no one could call her sloppy or erratic. It was in fact that stability and predictability upon which the Imperial Diplomatic Corps built their reputation and, naturally, with the state of Empress Saisei's condition, we can see the trajectory even to the modern day."

"We've examined financial records and found pretty much what we expected to see, it's the one area he managed largely well as building the Anselmo fortune which, given his position, would directly benefit the accomplishment of his goals. Medical records are where things become more problematic. Large swaths of Empress Saisei's records were either altered or destroyed. Aside from pregnancy issues the Empress was in good health, both mentally and physically, yet medical incidents seemingly increased as CFO held a position over the healthcare of the Imperial Family. We believe this ties into recent events as well, as while the Empress exhibits some symptoms there are other areas where we have not seen the expected trajectory to track. It is thus my recommendation that our counterparts in Achkaerin, including the medical team of Empress Saisei, conduct in-depth tests, scrutinize what medical records we could decipher, and pay great attention to prescribed medications, especially any which were prescribed to her during the period of time I've mentioned today. While I cannot be confident that this is a smoking gun, if CFO wished to introduce a period of uncertainty within the Imperial Government Empress Saisei would have been his first and primary target: gradually removing her from the picture and casting her as diminished would certainly be an avenue I would put money on CFO pursuing."

"We'll continue our investigations into other areas of concern, however, I feel this should be a priority on your side for now. We'll collaborate as necessary."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on August 15, 2022, 09:40:35 PM: "What are your suspicions?" Peter asked looking at Serenity and Emerson

"Charles has only ever been after one thing power." Serenity said "Cecelia wasn't going to give him status, so he betrays her. Beatrice gave him status and she proved an easy puppet for him but being the puppeteer that's not enough it only takes one moment of trust and the strings are cut. If you want power in Rokkenjima you have to get past the Anselmo's but they're so beloved of the public that conventional measures don't do it, you'd need to discredit them."

"If he's been planning this a while then he'll have left fingerprints." Emerson said "We'll head back to Pyrena and analyse oddities."

"And hopefully that leads us to what he intends." Sally said

1 Week Later

Emerson had spent a week having various documents from the last several years brought out of storage and being poured over, it wasn't lost on him that there had been many odd decisions in that time frame, he also agreed with the assessment that if you were going to try and seize power from the sort of position Charles was in then you had to do it from within, that was why Kyoko was setting off alarm bells, but also you needed to isolate the Empress, remove the scapegoats so to speak. Emerson went through the box of folders on the table in front of him and found what he was looking for, reading through the first page of it his eyes widened "Bold of you Charles." he said "Amy tell Lucius I need to see him"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on August 25, 2022, 09:30:36 AM: Lucius was easy enough to summon, "What can I do for you?" he simply asked.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on August 30, 2022, 02:12:17 AM: "Take a look at this" Emerson said handing the attorney the folder "That's a copy of the petition that triggered the referendum on the Premier, look at the names on it." he then handed Lucius another folder "Same list but with an overwhelming majority of names highlighted, all of them don't exist, the big giveaway is the top few names are rogue Anausa all noted as deceased in the Kirby report and they were dead before the petition. But all those names have registered address's, passports, ID, drivers licenses, pay taxes, they even have jobs, fill in the census and keep up to date on postal votes." he paused "A group of floating voters this size being run by someone at the heart of Pyrena, Charles could have rigged every election since 2004. But the more immediate issue is that this makes the petition invalid, and if the petition is invalid then the referendum is invalid and that means sixty five percent of Rokkenjima's electorate voted to abolish the Premier based on fraudulent foundations."

In Valtheim Peter and Serenity were sitting down with Sally, Nettie, the Attorney General Robert Westbrooke (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg16634#msg16634) and Doctor Joe Naylor (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg220#msg220) from the Royal household medical team. Joe had a piece of paper in his hand.

"Following concerns expressed by the INIS we've taken a look at Beatrice Anselmo's medical records, lack of expected symptoms plus other expected conditions medical experts are of the opinion that she does not have Parkinsons." Joe said "Having looked at her records it's believed medication was used to give the impression of Parkinsons."
"How do you get her to take medication she doesn't need?" Robert asked
"Best guess Asuna's kidnapping." Serenity said as Sally nodded "Plenty of medication she'd take during that, just slip it in."
"Implications?" Peter asked
"Legally it invalidates the diminished responsibility defence." Robert said "Prosecution can appeal and should appeal, Beatrice ends up in an actual prison not where she is."
"Politically it's another lie, it's not going to play well." Nettie said "So many lies have already been told, public trust is not going to stand it."
"And that's without igniting the dynamite." Serenity said
"Meaning?" Peter asked
"Assume Beatrice was drugged when she gave that Imperial Address, she'd have to be for the records to add up, that makes the denial of talking to Barren a lie. Which means we have a Rokkenjiman Empress conversing with Mundus's most wanted terrorist, what's that going to do for relations with East Moreland?" Serenity said
"Nothing good." Peter said
"She told me a half truth." Serenity said "She told me what she did, the one thing Charles couldn't risk... so she's drugged again."
"Which means there was an insider." Sally said she looked at Peter "As I believe the INIS to be compromised I'd like authority to send investigative assets to Rokkenjima."
"Do it." Peter said
"I'm going to Redwall." Serenity said "I want to talk to her."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on August 30, 2022, 07:25:22 AM: (https://i.postimg.cc/Hk9xrxVp/Lucius.jpg)

"That the implications of such findings are vast would be an understatement," he sighed as he looked the documents over. "I'll see that my Office looks into this matter, however, in matters concerning the Anauša there is one source which would be foolish not to call upon," he continued as he removed his phone from his pocket, bringing up Lucinda's contact. "She knows them inside and out, and if there's lingering remnants acting in a manner which would harm Asuna, well, she'll exhaust all means to ensure her safety."

Pausing for a moment Lucius added, "In my duties as Attorney for the Crown much of my time is spent home, in Pyrettania and, as you are all well aware, it is rare that I get to see my wife these days. Once we've dealt with these matters it would be nice to have her home more often."
Paroxetine had been something which Beatrice rarely thought of though it had become a part of her daily medication regimen. There were others too which had been prescribed at the direction of the Imperial Family's personal doctor; at one time he had been an associate of Charles yet following his fall from grace Doctor Araya had distanced himself from the former Head of the Imperial Household Ministry. For quite some time she could mask her challenges, not even Alex could pick up on them. She did her best to explain away the twitching, loss of appetite and movement problems yet the confusion, agitation, anxiousness, loss of appetite and libido, increasing insomnia and psychosis were things she couldn't quite hide.

"I do believe I said we had nothing further to discuss, have you nothing better to do than sit there and take pleasure in my present circumstances?" She threw her pillow, confident she would hit her target yet scowling as it bounced softly against the wall opposite of her. "Pleasure, no, pity yes," he replied, using the pillow to prop his head against that same wall. "Before you were my friend you were my adversary, one worthy of respect in many ways yet now, I'm only sorry to see what has become of you. Evanthe can't even bring herself to face you directly, you must understand it brings her too much pain, so I made a promise to her that I would do so on her behalf, so she can tell Asuna that you are living as best you can despite the circumstances. You never wondered why I have full access here, why I am trusted to sit here with you? The Anselmo who stared me down in the Illumic was sharper than that, much sharper."

"You'll know what I speak of when I remind you that lives were on the line, many of them our friends," Beatrice said, with her voice raising with each word spoken. "Where would Asuna be today, where would David be, where would our nations be, had I not acted where no one else would? Even today my actions are maligned for something they are not, I stand alone, a source of virtue and sacrifice in a world that does not understand it, and you would judge me for that? I had lives in my hands...." "Beatrice, calm yourself, no one else can hear you," he sighed, "Gods know you don't have to deafen me to get your point across. I think, though, that both you and I know there's a good many things you don't need, and we argue about it each time I come to visit you. Your enemy is not me, he's the one who managed to destroy you from within, you have to stop taking those things one way or another." "The doctor said...." he laughed, "The doctor said..." and I bet he also said the parties at Pyrena weren't the best thing for your liver but you kept the good times rolling anyway, yes?"

"Beside the point," Beatrice sighed, "can you go away now?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on August 30, 2022, 05:54:53 PM: Marble Palace, 2003

It was a familiar sight, or rather it had become familiar, the Azurewind evening routine the young Prince Simon doing his homework, Iona cooking the meal and Peter and the then seventeen year old Beatrice sat at the chessboard while the five year old Serenity watched enthralled by the contest. "You still place to much emphasis on strength." Peter said as they made their moves "Too much focus on attack, you see where to attack me and you've lined it up well you had checkmate in eight." he moved a pawn "But you didn't see that I had checkmate in five, the ability to adapt is more important for leaders, learn to see the whole board, learn to think about all the possibilities in any situation, sometimes the right move doesn't look to be the strongest."
"Meanie." Serenity said sticking her tongue out at her father, which resulted in Peter laughing and Beatrice ruffling Serenity's hair

Present Day

Serenity had had more enjoyable drives than this one but then this whole equation, truth or lie it had been her dance for a while now but having hard evidence of something? That was new, the implications were disturbing but maybe Beatrice had learned more than she'd thought. This wasn't Serenity's first time in this sort of facility, as a military lawyer she'd frequented corridors like these before but this was the first time not in uniform, when she got to the door of Beatrice's room she leaned against the outside of it, her back flat against it, such was the proximity that she could hear Beatrice's voice from within and it somewhat brought a smile to her face as she nodded for the door to be opened.

"It's all right Josiah." Serenity said, very familiar with hallucinatory conversations and such she had them herself from time to time, "I've got her say hi to Isaac and Caspian for me." it was quite possibly among the most ridiculous things she'd ever said but it was enough to hopefully draw Beatrice's attention, Serenity walked over and sat next to her "I'll save you the trouble of asking I'm here because a well played move deserves recognition, way to slow Charles down."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on August 30, 2022, 08:38:31 PM: "It's never enough when it comes to him, though," Beatrice sighed. "Every step of the way he's seemingly able to take the table and command it to his benefit, even contained he holds all the advantages, he made sure of it. I was so worried that the military would try to turn me into their tool that I didn't see the true threat or the designs he had for me or the Empire. Despite the best of my efforts even if he is denied all the comforts he so loves, the wine, the whiskeys, fine food, his collections of antiques....his work undoubtedly continues. Where Stalin failed Charles seems poised to work out some semblance of victory."

"With the troublemaker gone, however, it's nice to have a pleasant voice to listen to. While our options are quite limited, what would you wish to do today?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on September 01, 2022, 12:21:15 AM: Serenity half smiled "Charles plays a good game but I know someone who plays better and you slowed him down enough for us to get her in the game and she's the best there is so have a little faith, this time we're putting an end to this for good." she said "As your attorney of record on the case I have to disclose to the prosecution that your condition is drug induced, I expect them to appeal, so we'll probably be back in court soon." taking a breath she sighed a little, something about this still bugged her but she couldn't quite put her finger on it yet. "So tell me... what does Euphy like to do?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on September 04, 2022, 09:31:53 PM: "I have to be honest, there's so much I can't....it's just not there, Serenity. I can't remember the Speeches, even watching them on video I look and I don't recognize the person on the stage. She looks like me, she talks like me, sounds so very much like me but it's just like looking at someone from the outside. That's not even to mention the chunks of my personal life that just aren't there, just how much time have I lost with my family? I talk to a Rhodes more often than I have any of them, convincing me that Charles has invaded me and is conquering me from within. He often tells me to decline medication, but it wouldn't have been given to me if there was no need, I was sick and now, just as he always does, he lays a trap, or at least he tries to. But," she leaned in and whispered, "I'm more clever than he is.....but what if he's right?"

She paused for a moment, "Euphy, she likes planes I know that, shopping, painting, oh you should see what she can do with a paintbrush! She's also got this thing for obscure trivia that would put many of the game show panelists to shame. She's fun."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on September 13, 2022, 11:03:56 PM: "Guess I'll have to find out how fun." Serenity said taking a breath before reaching into her bag and handing Beatrice a piece of paper "Don't ask me questions because I can't answer them. That's a DNA test, sample A is yours sample B belongs to someone you know as Lucretia Marino. The results conclude that there is a 99.9% chance that you and her are sisters. Take your time with it and I'll see you when we end up in court again."

Ashai Castle was home to Achkaerin's Military Defence Initiative, in short cyber, electronic warfare and other related things. It was also home to the Justicars, the specialised intelligence operatives, drawn from all walks of life to do their job, counter threats to their country and their allies. The Justicar CO was Rion Ayanami (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg646#msg646), ever since investigations into this had started she'd had her team as she called them on it, whatever Charles was planning was years in the making so moves had most definitely already been made and now she had what Emerson had found in front of her and had the Viceregent on a video call.

"Gotta give Charles credit it's a well crafted Zugzwang." Rion said "The petition's invalid, so the referendum's invalid and therefore the Premier was wrongly forced out. Either you come forward with it which makes Rokkenjima's authorities look incompetent or Groves exposes it and frames it as a cover up. Those paper voters of Charles it's very easy to paint a picture that they were used at the beck and call of Beatrice Anselmo."
"Either way public trust in the Rokkenjiman leadership takes a hit." Emerson said
"Which is probably what Charles bread and butter is going to be." Rion said "The Anselmo's are so beloved of the Rokkenjiman public that killing them would martyr them, can't do that so first you shake public trust in them."
"So what's his endgame?" Emerson asked
"Broadly speaking he wants power." Rion said "He had it and then lost it, now he wants it back. But this is also a revenge tour."
"So even though he can't kill them it doesn't mean he can't hurt them." Emerson said
"We're only going to easily find that which Charles wants us to find." Rion said "Everything else is intuition."
"Good hunting." Emerson said, he disconnected the call.

Rion stood up and walked out of her office, along the walkway and down onto the operations floor and tapped the shoulder of Julian Lawson (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg656#msg656) "Boss?" Julian asked looking at her
"I need you to do something." Rion said "And you need to keep it quiet."
"What is it?" Julian asked
"Head to Bethesda and look into the events happening on the night of the 16th August 2018." Rion said
"That's the night before Joshua left." Julian said "Why?"
"I've just got a bad feeling about it." Rion said "Take Lassie with you."
"Ok." Julian said
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on September 14, 2022, 08:26:09 AM: "Lucretia...." she said as the paper slid from her fingers and fell to the ground beneath her. "I must see her, though not in these circumstances. We always had such a connection throughout the years and now I know why, not just that she is a wonderful person, but we were meant to be at each other's sides throughout this life. If there is one thing in this life you could do for me, just one, please bring her to my side just....not in these circumstances. I wouldn't want her to see me lamenting here. We have much to discuss and much to consider for the future, and I would like for that to happen in the sunlight. She's been kept in the darkness for much of her life, both her and I need the sunlight to cleanse this from our souls. Please, give us our day in the light together, if even for a few moments."
Charles began his day as he often did, putting the pieces of the puzzle together from the scraps of information he could piece together. "Guard," he asked with an air of authority he no longer held but clung to so tightly, "I would like the morning papers. Specifically those from the RBC, DBC, Northfort, the Imperial News Service, Mangai Nui and the Defense Journal. You see, it's the crosswords in each I wish to solve," he said with a chuckle, "if I don't do that, I feel as though my day is incomplete."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on September 22, 2022, 10:30:15 PM: "You know I can't promise that." Serenity said getting up "I'll do what I can but I can't dictate what a court of law will decide. The verdict odds are not in our favour, but the sentencing ones are, if things go well you'll get the chance. Now work on getting well and I'll see you in a few days."

By the time Serenity got back to the Marble Palace Peter was in a meeting with Rion, stepping into the study Serenity sighed "How is she?" Peter asked
"Getting there now she's off the drugs." Serenity said "What's occurring?"
"Rion was just going through hypotheticals." Peter said "Go on."
"Charles can't kill the Anselmo's, or at least not yet." Rion said "They're too beloved of the Rokkenjiman people, kill them you martyr them. This is why the original scheme was what it was, as Lord High Steward puppet Beatrice, Euphemia as Viceregent is inexperienced so she won't object to Charles's suggestions, but Beatrice perjures herself and takes herself out of play so Charles has to change tact."
"Discredit the Anselmo's, turn popular opinion against them, you create the means for something different." Peter said "So these paper voters..."
"Will partly do that." Rion said "But it also says something about his endgame. Reinstating the Office of the Premier is what he wants."
"Why?" Peter asked
"So he can occupy it." Serenity said
"But he's in prison." Peter said
"He won't be for long." Serenity said "There's enough evidence to show Beatrice was drugged at time of trial, we have no independent hard evidence showing Charles was drugging her at the time of the genocide, Charles was convicted based on circumstantial evidence held together by Beatrice's word, her word is now in a legal sense worthless, the minute the court rules that she wasn't drugged Charles will be appealing and he'll walk."

"Another Zugzwang." Rion said she looked at Peter "You know what I'm going to ask."
"I do." Peter said "Go turn it into checkmate."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on September 23, 2022, 01:24:41 AM: "Now don't sell yourself short, while a most bitter memory I remember thinking in those moments at the hospital that I was no longer there as a Head of State, but as a friend, someone understanding and in a position to bring some light, any light, I could to you and your father. I still see so much of her in you, all the years, trials and at times horrible words exchanged and here you are," she continued as a tear fell from her eye, "still kind, still strong, and gentle as always. I only wish I could have seen the snake in my house much sooner, perhaps we would never have been moved to be in opposition all those times? Then again, all we have in looking to the past through that lens is impossible possibilities, and as none of that can be rewritten I can only promise you that we won't be writing any more sour memories together."
"Whaling, because that is a winning issue," Charles chuckled as he read his morning papers, casually speaking to the guard who was never too far away. "I wish the Borlanders had turned the tables and demanded some ransom for her at least, perhaps they could have received a little something more from their troubles. Oh come now," he said as the guard rolled their eyes, "Naturally I am happy that no harm came to the Crown Princess, she was such a sweet girl, but she's so obviously ill equipped for the role which she is to assume. This world is encumbered by the weight of families who cling to power by right of birth, does that not anger you? You, a humble prison guard, could have had a much higher station if you were pushed out of a noble womb yet you're here, entertaining me, instead. I'll have my breakfast now."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on October 04, 2022, 10:15:41 PM: For Amber Duff (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg1281#msg1281) this was like Deja vu, pulling up to the former residence of Charles Ofdensen, the estate of the Duke of Pyrettania, it had been vacant for years now, kept under guard but no one lived there and no one really wanted to. When the original investigation had happened Amber had led a team through searching the building and come up empty handed but that time had been about the genocide this time was about something else. Accompanying Amber was her sister Sarah (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg612#msg612), computer bag slung over her shoulder, her presence might have seemed odd but trust was important in this situation. Stepping inside the house Amber closed the door and sighed "This hasn't changed." she said
"Where do we start?" Sarah said
"His personal rooms are all upstairs." Amber said "Start there."
"Computers?" Sarah asked
"Yep, he had some top notch security for those." Amber said "Remove the computer from the premises and the data got wiped."
"The word paranoid comes to mind." Sarah said
"Yes it does." Amber said as they headed up the stairs
"So what are we looking for this time?" Sarah asked
"Evidence." Amber said, Sarah raised an eyebrow "Assuming Charles has a plan to seize power it's been a long time in the making, they'll be traces."
"Of what?" Sarah asked
"His plan, network, anything." Amber said

Once they got into Charles's office area, Sarah sat herself down at the desk and started going through the computer while Amber went through the bookshelves,
"Didn't you do that the first time?" Sarah asked
"Yes." Amber said running a finger along the shelves containing diaries "But this time's a whole different game." she paused "Beatrice takes the throne in early 2004." she grabbed the 2004 diary off the shelf and started going through it "Charles is made Lord High Steward reasonably quickly, most of that year is spent on two things - the Constitution and Beatrice and Alexs's wedding... but nothing unusual."
"Try another year." Sarah said "You'll find something." Amber smiled, it took until the 2006 diary but she found something
"How about this?" Amber said "In 2006 Charles visited Seaforth."
"That's not in the Pyrena diary." Sarah said looking on the computer
"So an off book trip to Seaforth." Amber said
"Does it say who with?" Sarah asked
"A Doctor Lucas Cavanaugh." Amber said "Interesting. Let's see what other meetings he had that weren't official."

In Pyrena Emerson was hard at work, as much as he would like nothing more than to be throwing 100% of his focus on countering whatever Charles had in the works he still had business of state to deal with. He glanced up as Kayleigh walked in and handed him a cup of tea.
"Thanks." Emerson said
"There's something bugging me." Kayleigh said "We can prove that Beatrice was being drugged by Charles in 2017 prior to her arrest but..."
"Go on." Emerson said
"She was diagnosed with Parkinsons before transferring authority to Evanthe." Kayleigh said "And she wasn't on any medication in prison, so how does she test positive for Parkinsons after Charles is put in prison?"
"You think someone else picked up where Charles left off?" Emerson asked
"It makes sense." Kayleigh said
"Any guesses who?" Emerson said
"One" Kayleigh said putting a piece of paper in front of Emerson "Do I get him picked up?"

Emerson read the name and looked at Kayleigh "Do it." he said

It was about half an hour later that Michelle Frost (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg12928#msg12928) and David Barker (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg14356#msg14356) were parking up outside a picturesque country house, the pair had been flown down to Pyrena to provide extra security given the threat but here they were. "It's flat open ground behind if he runs." Michelle said "We catch him either way
"Let's hope so." David said as they got out of the car and walked up the path to the front door.
"So good cop or bad cop?" Michelle asked
"Let's do it by the book." David said taking a deep breath before hammering on the door "Junichiro Koizumi, we have a search warrant, come and open up please sir!"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on October 10, 2022, 12:13:40 AM: Junichiro spoke through the door at first, "A warrant, for what?" he asked with genuine shock before adding, "and under what authority?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on October 10, 2022, 09:33:01 PM: David and Michelle both let their hands stray to the blue pistols holstered at their waists, just a precautionary measure.

"By authority of the Crown sir I have a warrant to search the premises and secure items relating to your time as Lord High Steward." David said "Please open the door."

In Valtheim Commander Melanie Armitage (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg4230#msg4230) was feeling like it was groundhog day, yet again she was stood in her courtroom with Serenity and Lieutenant Nell Foster (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg4241#msg4241) stood in front of her and yet again the subject matter was Beatrice Anselmo and the Andean Genocide, Beatrice herself was sat at one of the tables.
"I want to be very clear before either of you say anything." Melanie said "That this had better be the last time that I see this matter on my docket."
"We think it will be this time ma'am." Nell said
"Let's hear it." Melanie said
"Your Honour the prosecution continues to hold as per the established and undisputed facts of the case that Beatrice Anselmo who was, by virtue of the terms of the Sakura-Umeko Accord, Commander in Chief of the Toshikawan military during the latter part of the Andean Genocide failed to discharge the responsibilities required of her under the Uppsala Convention and that as a result of that failure civilian deaths and other breaches of the Convention occurred. That was and remains the basis of the charge against her. The last hearing on this case it was argued and evidenced that the defendant was suffering from Parkinsons and so she was found guilty on grounds of diminished responsibility. It now appears that everyone involved both prosecution and defence has been misled as new evidence disclosed shows that the defendant was given drugs to simulate Parkinsons. The implication being that she was of sound mind and judgement at the time of the genocide..." she glanced at Serenity

"However neither myself or Lieutenant Foster can prove beyond reasonable doubt that Beatrice Anselmo was or was not drugged at the time." Serenity said "This inability would raise significant hurdles if this went to a judicial appeal." she took a breath "Therefore we are submitting a joint motion to the court, to put an end to this matter once and for all."
"Details?" Melanie said
"Given the new evidence we submit that the verdict of guilty on grounds of diminished responsibility be quashed and replaced with a straight guilty verdict with a life sentence." Nell said "Given the unusual nature of the circumstances at this point we submit the sentence be served under house arrest."
"Really?" Melanie said
"Your Honour Beatrice Anselmo is guilty of many things in relation to the genocide." Serenity said "But she is not a belligerent party, she is not a conspirator, she is not the guiding mind, what she is guilty of are crimes of negligence and omission. House arrest is more than suitable for her to serve her time."
"I assume you can find a place Lieutenant?" Melanie asked
"Yes Your Honour." Serenity said
"Ok subject to that provision of residence which I will stipulate must be within Achkaerinese borders I approve the motion." Melanie said "A full list of conditions will be provided to you before the end of the day. I will also be making a recommendation to Admiral Rankin that you are both given some leave. Court adjourned."

Once Melanie had walked out Serenity walked over to where Beatrice sat "It could have been a lot worse." Serenity said "Shall we get you to your new home?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on October 11, 2022, 04:35:11 AM: As he opened the door he sighed, "You may search as I've nothing to hide, however, all records during my tenure as Vicegerent should be with the Imperial Archives. I've a fresh pot of coffee in the kitchen if you should desire a drink," he continued as he returned to his living room seat. "What is this all about?"
"It could have been," Beatrice said with little protest, "and I think that would be nice. You have to promise me though," she took Serenity's hand, "and please, don't lie to me, don't say something to make me feel good in the moment, but years from now, when I am frail and on the edge of death, you'll find me a way home. I don't wish to die in a foreign land, and while there are people here who I love with the whole depths of my heart, I wish to be upon Rokkenjiman soil when I die, I wish to be home. Now I don't plan on dying anytime soon and I hope, with those poisons out of my veins that I have a long life ahead, but you understand me yeah? I'll live here, but see that when my day comes where my soul is weighed, I'll have at least departed this realm from my own soil. I'm sorry I got dark there, let us return our focus to the present."
Once the news reached Charles he grinned, perhaps chuckles were heard, but this was the moment he had long awaited. "Guard, I require my attorney, and perhaps fortunately for you, my days in your care will be coming to an end in the near-future. Worry not, for I will remember the moments we've shared together. I'll send you a fruit cake for the holidays, and when I am vindicated and arise the democratic ranks to rule over Rokkenjima, your family will have little to worry about for their lives, and the lives of their children, as you've entertained me so thoroughly. I've an appeal to file, so see that my attorney is shown in with little wait."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on October 18, 2022, 01:00:12 AM: "As we said sir we're looking for items relating to your time as Lord High Steward." David said
"As for why." Michelle said "You served as Lord High Steward between September 2017 until the post was abolished so you had oversight of Beatrice Anselmo's medical care when she was diagnosed with Parkinsons."
"Only she never had Parkinsons, so she was effectively being drugged on your watch." David said "Only question is was that with your knowledge or not?"

Serenity knew better than to make promises she couldn't keep "I can't promise that." she said "I can try but ultimately that's for another court hearing many years in the future. For now let's get you out of here." that was easier said than done given the public interest in the case and then having to get Beatrice tagged but a car parked around the back of the court building was more than suitable for Serenity to drive them away in once the various hoops had been jumped through.

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/fe/ef/d8/feefd82c0b45b3fe2218af755840a67b.jpg)
Ivyfield Priory

Ivyfield Priory was one of the Royal properties that was on the 'retreat roster' as the head of the household called it, not in the middle of town, a place where members of the family could unwind. There were a few such places dotted around Achkaerin, plus one in Revana, one in East Moreland, one in Clysperis and one in Rokkenjima. This one sat about fifteen miles outside of Ivyfield, it was a reasonable sized house with spacious grounds. "Welcome to Ivyfield Priory." Serenity said as they got out of the car "It's got everything you need, your own clothes, your own space and there's an organ. There is some fine print, all visitors need to be cleared and you can't go beyond the grounds without approval. But you do get a set of keys." she smiled as she took Beatrice inside "Your bedroom's top of the stairs on the right and the living room's just through there. I did take the liberty of getting Asuna and Lucius here, so freshen up, go see your kids and I'm making dinner."

At the Marble Palace, Nettie walked into Peter's study just as the Emperor put the phone down. "That was Major Parker." Peter said
"It happened?" Nettie said
"Yeah Charles just filed his appeal." Peter said
"Didn't waste any time." Nettie said
"It'll be a few days before a hearing." Peter said, he sighed "How are you doing?"
"Well let's just say annoyed." Nettie said "Charles likely rigged the election that made me Premier, I can hardly claim I had a mandate of the people."
"And now we think Charles is lining a run at that up." Peter said
"Emerson's on it." Nettie said
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on October 31, 2022, 01:59:29 AM: "I only ever had access to those records as provided by Mr. Ofdensen in regards to the condition of the Empress. If there was anything nefarious taking place, I would be the last to know. Toward the later days of my tenure I was little more than a place holder; I had a title, but increasingly more of my duties were funneled through his office. Have a look, but I'm afraid I don't think I'll be of much help."
"It just will not do as it's not sat upon a hill, I jest of course," she said with a smile. "Truly, thank you," she continued, pulling Serenity in for a surprise hug, "I expect you to visit when you can, we've so much to catch up on and even more time to make up for. I know I've said and done things to you and Peter that I might never be able to make up for, however, I think we both know that I'm going to try nonetheless. Chalk it up to my stubbornness if you wish, but for so long I wasn't me, I in many ways became an instrument to be used and I've got to find a way to undo all that was made possible because of that. Do you think I would be allowed to start some sort of foundation, something to give back to the causes which I fought so hard for prior to what he did to me? What do we do of his plans now, surely whatever he has in mind for the future cannot bode well for anyone upon Mundus, we've indeed entered a dangerous era of containment."

"First thing is first though, please let them know I will be ready in five. It's been a while, but after dinner I'd like you to join us all for a performance. It's been some time since these fingers have danced and I do wish for you to be here with me for it. You're family and, while I once gave up on you, no matter the reasons behind it, we're going to make up for it."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on November 09, 2022, 02:26:30 AM: Now alarm bells were ringing in David and Michelle's heads, having permission to search but Koizumi's comments were of concern. "Let's try that again." David said as Michelle started to search "You were Lord High Steward from September 2017 until the position was abolished, Charles Ofdensen is already in prison at that point so he has no office from which to give or take anything, which again takes us to you having supervisory authority over the medical treatment of the Imperial family, which means either you authorised the course of drugs that led to Beatrice Anselmo's simulated Parkinson's or you know who did."

In Seaforth Julian was reading a book in the Castle Rhodes library, this wasn't somewhere he'd been able to spend a lot of time despite now being in the family, he put the book down and smiled as his wife Harper Rhodes walked in. "You're not going to like this." Harper said
"What is it?" Julian asked
"The day you're interested in is when Beatrice visited Evanthe and Joshua here." Harper said "I took a look in Joshua's journals subject of discussion - an international viceregent."
"Of course." Julian said "An odd decision at the time but also an outside variable, a safeguard." there was something else that came into his mind as he understood Rion's concern but he'd deal with that if became pertinent.

Serenity giggled "How's your Lloyd Webber?" She asked as she shooed Beatrice up the stairs before going to find Asuna and Lucius "Five minutes." she said washing her hands before setting to work on the food. She wasn't about to let Beatrice dwell on Charles... well not yet at least, tonight was more important than that it was a reunion and that was something meant to be joyful not frightful. She sighed "Asuna relax already will you? She's the same as always, just need to get her spark back."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on November 13, 2022, 11:09:35 PM: "If I tell you anything further," he sighed, "I'm a dead man. Do you honestly believe his influence faded just because he left office? He's installed an entire mechanism throughout the government that will see his vision manifest into reality, sure I held a title but there were handlers in place to ensure that it was his vision which persisted. You even being here today increases the chances that, tomorrow, I may not wake up. So have a look around, talk to my staff, my fate is sealed either way."
"Rusty, but I believe I can manage. I'll be ready in three," she continued as she made her way to get ready. As she got prepared she hummed an old tune which had been stuck in her head for days, she couldn't quite remember where she picked it up but she thought it would sound quite pleasant on the organ. "The night ahead will be perfect," she said to herself in the mirror with a smile, "for the first time in a while." When she rejoined them she knelt down on one knee and took Asuna and Lucius in each arm. "It's so good to see you again, my, how you've both grown! I've missed you more than you'll ever know."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on November 26, 2022, 07:20:39 PM: Serenity wasn't a top class cook by any stretch of the imagination but she was solid enough to make sure she and her girls ate right, it was the foundation of the Marble Palace the place was a home first and place of governance second, so here she was ear buds in, music playing, moving around the kitchen sorting dinner out. As she worked she smiled a little for a very long time the two longstanding files on the Uppsala books had been the Andean Genocide, courtesy of all the appeals and counter appeals, and the Cultist Genocide the latter now being the only one remaining of the two, it felt like an ending, like a resolution to have cleared the Andean Genocide off the list once and for all... well almost the specter of Charles Ofdensen now hung over them, though for once it wasn't menacing, not an executioners hand wielding the blade, well at least as far as Serenity was concerned, he was up to something that was for sure but this time there was a sort of logical progression to the machination, it was more of a chess game this time and that meant it could be extrapolated, it could be countered, it could be beaten.

Washing her hands as the meal cooked she grinned a little it had a nice feel about it, the evening, it was important that tonight was about the trio of Anselmo's she'd for one night push Charles out of the equation, there was plenty of time to handle that part later on. When the chorus of timers beeped she went to work plating up the meal, nothing to fancy just her daughters favourite spicy meatballs, a meal that had it's own charm and there was a nice lemon cheesecake for later. With dinner plated she poured herself a glass of lemonade "Dinner's ready." she called before sipping her drink.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on December 03, 2022, 04:20:23 AM: Joined together at the dinner table Beatrice sat and anyone could see she was in a better position than at any point in recent times. She looked to Asuna, “I’ve been keeping tabs on you, I hear there’s a Tytorian boy you’ve been seeing?” and, with a swift blush, Asuna glared, “we don’t need to talk about that at the dinner table! Later, I promise, but not now.”

“Fine, later then,” Beatrice said with a sigh. “For now there’s a fine meal before us, and I’ve plans to test my skills on the organ following. It’s been far too long and I long to play. Thank you, Serenity,” she said with a smile.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on December 03, 2022, 06:13:18 PM: "Don't thank me yet" Serenity said meaning that this whole mess wasn't over yet and the price of Beatrice's 'freedom' was going to likely be very high "But please do continue to tease Asuna about the boy in question... she doesn't tell anyone anything about him." despite the positivity she was putting on Serenity's mind was clicking through the gears, Charles represented something not seen on Mundus in decades, a credible threat - it was all well and good to point at the old suspects but dealing with people who only dealt in their own fictional narratives was simpler they made mistakes far more easily, they played the short game. Charles was playing a long game and using events to shape it, he had an understanding of how Rokkenjima worked and that made him far more dangerous than every single dictator and usurper out there and on the pages of recent history, it was always harder to counter the enemy within.

"Not too spicy I hope." Serenity said as she spotted Lucius reaching for the water "Astrid and Lisa love them."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on December 22, 2022, 02:13:06 AM: "No," he said with some struggle, "just fine. I'll be fine."

"Now I can't go without addressing it but," Beatrice sat her drink down, "I read the old Imperial Palace has been restored, and that it will be utilized again. I like this," she paused, "you've plans to move out and they're solid, and while I can't enjoy the grounds of Pyrena, I'd like them to be open to your father when he's in Rokkenjima. He's got his toys in the basement and he knows the halls well, but my, by the Seven Divine, there is no mother more proud on Mundus than me. You've even inherited my penchant for inflaming the Dartfordians over Jenka-Jenkinson, but please slow down and enjoy your childhood before you have to make the hard choices, yeah?"

"I know," Asuna said with a grin, "but I've got to make decisions too. I'm stepping into some big shoes, I have to make where I stand well known. But we've navigated the Dartfordian issues well, and if I give some boomers a heart attack or two, I've got to be doing something right, right?" "Pace yourself, plenty of time to learn and make mistakes ahead of you," Beatrice sighed.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on December 28, 2022, 04:22:53 AM: A couple of weeks later it was D-Day, the day of Charles Ofdensen's appeal hearing, the square outside the court building was filling up with reporters, news crews, members of the public and quite a few peaceful protesters it was without question a powder keg. On the periphery of the square Rion Ayanami (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg646#msg646) was getting out of her car, despite it being her job she hated days like this, Charles was playing a very dangerous game, so dangerous that in her judgement and that of the Emperor he had to be stopped before he got the chance to enact whatever plan he was bringing to a boil and that meant a violent and permanent solution, the lack of jeopardy for Charles in the courtroom meant that he'd be a free man later that day which meant that as far as Rion was concerned he'd join a former self proclaimed President of Phuebra and President Kravec on the list of people assassinated as a result of operations she'd overseen. It was a simple plan - checking into a hotel across the square was Lucinda Hadley (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg6219#msg6219), a sports bag over her shoulder, once she had the key in her hand she went up to the room on the seventh floor, once she was inside she closed the door behind her and walked over to the window it offered the desired vantage over the square, she opened the window and then opened the sports bag, the bag contained a disassembled sniper rifle which she set about assembling before taking position. "In position." Lucinda said over her earpiece.
"Stand by." Rion said

It was a pretty basic plan, Lucinda shoots Charles made to look like revenge given Lucinda's association with the former Empress of Rokkenjima but basic worked best, no need to over complicate anything.

Elsewhere in Valtheim a two car convoy was making its way through the streets, the front car a marked police car led the car flying the Rokkenjiman flag on the bonnet on its journey from the Rokkenjiman embassy to the Marble Palace, this was Crown Princess Asuna's convoy she'd been partaking in seasonal Rosari celebrations, driving the car carrying Asuna was Colin Quinn (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg9423#msg9423) and sat in the back with Asuna was Gemma Sanders (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg15577#msg15577), it had been a good day so far. Then it happened, the police car was rammed off the road by a lorry coming from an adjoining street.
"Hang on!" Colin said sharply turning the steering wheel and taking the car down a side street.
"Control this is Crystal." Gemma said over her com "Police escort taken out..." she looked over out of the rear window "Frack... car in pursuit currently on Housesteads lane."
"Classic bloody ambush drill." Colin said "What do you want to do?"
"Don't need a firefight in the middle of the city." Gemma said "Quill Corner."

Quill Corner was the name for a monument to the great Achkaerinese writers, it was in truth several sculptures clustered together but it was also on the edge of Meadow Park which in turn put it as the crow flies about ten minutes on foot from the secondary entrance to the Marble Palace grounds, it was across fields but right now that wasn't a concern. Colin skidded the car to a halt and opened his door, drawing his sidearm he used his door as cover, while Gemma looked at Asuna "Get ready to bolt out of your door, it's a run up the hill, stay low and don't stop for anything." she said before opening her door and taking position herself. "Crystal to Control." she was back on the com "Watership Down, repeat Watership Down, Fiver running for home." she took a breath as the pursuing car came to a halt and almost instantly came the sound of automatic gunfire.
"No pleasantries how rude." Colin said
"Automatics." Gemma said "Who the hell are these guys?"
"No clue." Colin said
"Covering fire." Gemma said, they started to lay down fire "Go!" Gemma ordered looking at Asuna.

Asuna bolted out of the car and ran, it was only when Colin and Gemma stopped to reload that things got tricky, bullets ripped into the car pinning the two Justicars down as three armed men hopped the wall and took off after Asuna.
"So much for making a stand." Gemma said
"Go I've got this." Colin said, Gemma nodded and as Colin laid down more covering fire she sprinted after Asuna, she'd heard a lot from Lucinda about the role she held and while Gemma didn't understand all of it yet she did know her responsibility was protecting Asuna, a steady aim helped as she planted two bullets in the back of the first one, then she found herself fighting at close quarters with the second, she knew she had to finish this quickly but that was easier said than done. Then came the scream, the third man had caught Asuna and was now carrying her kicking and screaming back to the vehicle. Maybe it was that turn of events but Gemma managed to get a grip on her blade and drove it into her opponents chest and then neck, as he went limp she scooped her pistol up off the ground and ran after her protectee but it wasn't enough a bullet slammed into her shoulder and with Colin still pinned in place all either of them could do was watch as Asuna was abducted.

At the Marble Palace Peter was stood in his study with his defence advisor and close friend Celine Tyler (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg602#msg602), the news had just broken that Charles Ofdensen's conviction had been quashed. "I keep finding myself wishing this is a nightmare." Peter said "How has it come to this?"
"I know what you mean." Celine said just as Peter's phone rang, displaying Asuna's name.
"Hello." Peter said answering it
"I have Crown Princess Asuna" a male voice Peter didn't know said
"Who is this?" Peter said "Prove it." there was a sound and then a scream
"Satisfied?" the man said "If anything happens to Charles Ofdensen she dies." the call ended, Peter and Celine exchanged a glance before Peter suddenly collapsed, his head connecting with the desk as he went down.

Back outside the court Rion was waiting for Charles to show himself, it wasn't likely to be that much longer then just as the doors opened she got a phone call and her eyes widened.
"Stand down." she said
"Say again." Lucinda said
"Stand down." Rion said "Akane has Asuna, we kill Charles and Asuna dies."
"How the..." Lucinda said
"I'm finding out." Rion said

It was an hour later Rion was stood in a treatment room at the hospital, Gemma and Colin were resting after surgery, Celine was standing against the wall and then in walked a very shaken Serenity
"How is he?" Rion asked
"Comatose." Serenity said "Compound stress brought on an MS relapse, blow to the head did the rest." she looked at Gemma and Colin "You both ok?"
"Well I'm pissed off." Gemma said "But I recognise who took her - Jason Renback."
"As in Arovium Liberation Army, attempted to kill Beatrice but shot Lucinda?" Serenity asked
"Yep." Gemma said

"Why take her?" Celine asked
“Initially leverage, puts a gun to our head guarantees he gets out of the country.” Rion said “But also think about this in a couple of weeks or so Asuna turns eighteen, at that point if anything happens to Evanthe Asuna can step up.”
“So Charles needs Asuna off the board.” Serenity said “But needs her alive for now as insurance.”
“Most likely yes.” Rion said
“Where is he?” Serenity asked
“On a flight to Port Luca.” Celine said
“I don’t think he’ll have Asuna with him.” Rion said “Keep distance from it.”
“Find her and figure his endgame out before we get there.” Serenity said “But if a hair on Asuna’s head is harmed…”
“I know.” Rion said
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on December 30, 2022, 03:27:36 AM: Asuna had finally found herself in a position where she could at least partially collect herself, these people reminded her strongly of the sort who had taken her before. This time, however, she was not the young child she had been then and knew the stakes of the situation. They had naturally her phone, however, they neglected to remove the smart watch from her wrist; whether that was sloppiness on their part or they hadn't noticed it was not important to her. Using it in class to fire off messages without her teachers noticing she opened her messaging app in a moment where eyes weren't squarely upon her and began writing with her finger on the display. By this point she had become accustomed to forming messages without glancing at the screen, after pulling up Gemma's name she sent as many details as she could.

"took my 4n, using watch dont msg back, just passed theatr goin south, pls take care of mum. will let u know when safe to txt bk"

She looked tensely around her after hitting send, "I don't think they noticed. good," She'd have at least somewhat of a line to the outside world, at least until her battery inevitably died, and for the first time she found herself anxious at the 87% battery life of her watch. Naturally they'd ditched the phone, but asking papa for the cellular plan on her watch which, at the time, was cited as "an excessive expense" was finally paying for itself. She'd take the time as their attention was distracted to turn off as many features as she could to extend that battery life.

When another moment presented itself she messaged Thomas: "im good, dont worry, not my 1st time. txt when safe again."
"Keep the Crown Princess close, but don't be too rough with her, I don't need any trauma from her prior experiences damaging her to the point she's less than useful to my designs," Charles said into the encrypted line. "She's a captive, yes, but she was never someone who brought me pain, so I can afford to show a bit of gentleness toward her, let her be comfortable so long as she doesn't cause any trouble. Now if it were Beatrice I'd say sow her mouth shut and stow her in the trunk. Give the girl a bottle of water, tell her to keep quiet, only take action to correct her if she forces you to. We'll speak again in an hour."

Upon landing in Rokkenjima Charles received a warm welcome from a group of supporters, though there were also many on hand booing loudly. "I know, I know," he said motioning with his hands for the crowd to calm down. "I'm not everyone's favourite person, but there's been a deficit of truth which has harmed not only me, but each and every one of you. Today marks a re-introduction and I hope, with time, we can grow to trust one another. We have many enemies out there," he said pointing to the sea, "I'd like to think we shouldn't be picking fights here on our own soil. I'm sure you can understand that I need some rest after this tiring ordeal, and I look forward to speaking with you this coming Saturday where I intend to share more with you. Until then Islyna bless you, and may she guide us all unto her providence."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on December 31, 2022, 12:23:41 AM: "You do realize all I have to do is walk into Imperial High Command and I'll be able to get her back, I'll make them wish they never laid a hand upon her, damn it you're supposed to defend my interests and here we are, my daughter is in unknown hands, and you persist to stand in my way? How can you betray me like this?" Lucinda again would push Beatrice to the ground as she tried to make her way to the front door and, in a moment uncharacteristic for her, tears fell from her eyes. "Do you think I want to keep you here, to keep us here? Don't you think I want to be out there tracking her down, tearing the hearts out of the chests of those that have hurt her, those who have hurt you? Damn you and your stubbornness, damn both of them!" she said as she pushed Beatrice to the ground yet again, only to lose her footing and fall on top of her.

With her face inches away from Beatrice's she sighed, "Damn you," she said meekly, "you're such a fool when your mind is made up and determined on a course of action but if I'm going to protect you truly I have to keep you here. And you see the irony in my station, that what we both wish to do the most, much like the old days where you would be aloof while I had someone's blood on my hands in your name, but this time is different," she said as she placed her hand on Beatrice's cheek. "If you leave you'll break the provisions of your sentence and then I can no longer protect you, and I love you too much to let that happen. So please," she said turning away for a moment, "sit down and shut up for once, you lovable fool," she continued as she wiped a tear from Beatrice's eye. "I hurt too, I want to be out there getting her back to you so that not one more moment has to pass whilst you're apart, but these are our roles, these are our stations, and while you may no longer be the Empress of Rokkenjima, that never broke our bond or my duty to you. Do you think I would stop you from leaving if it wasn't in your best interests to not leave?"

"...no, you wouldn't," Beatrice said. "Exactly, just as much as you love to hear me say yes to you, you have to respect when I tell you no all the same, yes? Bea....you know my heart is yours, and though we've ended up with husbands I still remember that day so many years ago, we promised that we'd always be there for each other, that we'd see no harm come to one another, we knew our hearts belonged to each other but it could never work out, so we lived the lives others expected us to. I promise you though that you're my Empress in more ways than one, and I will always do what is necessary to protect your interests. Do you trust me?" she said as she stared into her eyes.

"I do, fully," came Beatrice's answer, before locking her lips with Lucinda. "Bea, I was not...expecting that," she said as she got up. "I'm sorry I'm just, I don't know anymore, it's all so confusing and overwhelming and you're my strength right now, the one who is keeping me going, from making mistakes. I love you too but I can't break Alex's heart, you're something I can never have," she continued as she placed her hand on the back of Lucinda's head. "Thank you, for making the decisions I can't make, for always being there. We'll get her back and, maybe, we'll get to explore a life together...." "Stop," Lucida said, "Focus on Asuna and once she's back, we've lives before us to figure everything else out. Now go and sit in that chair, and don't make me body you again, yes?" came Lucinda's reply.

"As you wish," Beatrice said as she lifted herself up and sat in the chair. "Tell me, what really happened in that room when I was washing blood off your hands?" she continued. "You're already sitting so good, it all began when we received faulty intelligence on the location of...."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on January 08, 2023, 10:04:42 PM: Despite all modern technology it was quite comforting that some things were still done with a pen and paper in this case Nettie drawing up the Anselmo family tree, or at least the part that was relevant in these circumstances, she was joined by the head of royal security Alexandria Savage (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg211#msg211) known simply as Alex to her friends, the two of them actually sat at the breakfast bar. Serenity was behind the bar getting herself a cup of tea. "There it is." Alex said as Nettie wrote down Lucius's name
"There's what?" Nettie said
"Path to endgame." Alex said "Trust the person who tried this once."
"So?" Serenity asked sipping her tea
"Discredit or invalidate." Alex said "Beatrice is already out due to all the Andean Genocide stuff so the next in line is Asuna, no real skeletons of any sort there so she gets to be the get out jail free card, which because Rokkenjima is a matriarchy leaves Kyoko, Evanthe, Euphemia and Cecelia, four obstacles he'll have plans for them. Take each of them out of the equation and..."
"You force the Diet's hand." Nettie said "Full equality must extend to the Chrysanthemum throne."
"Exactly Charles can't bring back the Federal Republic even if he wants to so he has to be more subtle, use Rokkenjima's democratic apparatus." Alex said "Get to the point where Lucius has to be heir or the line ends. And then fall guy as regent so that when Lucius has an accident a few years down the line there's someone to go down for it and then with a heavy heart Charles takes everything."
"Pretty good long game." Serenity said "Guess we'd better do something."
"What did you have in mind?" Nettie said
"Sunstrike our embassy in Rokkenjima, start slow and careful no noise but there's going to come a point." Serenity said "And when it does I want everything ready to go. We trust Forrester right?"
"Alex Rowe does." Nettie said
"Good enough." Serenity said "Talk to the DNSO, I do not want Charles able to play in our backyard."

Rion meanwhile was busy running the search for Asuna, the good news was that they had the watch signal, the bad news was that it only gave a general area as a location. However there were advantages to that, even with just a general area it was possible to determine probable routes due to the speed and distance the signal traveled, at present the signal was still moving east of Valtheim and going at a fair lick, which told Rion that the car was on a road, knowing about the watch meant that she was happy to be the lioness waiting to pounce, she could influence how this game of cat and mouse went hopefully in a way that posed minimal risk to the public. She glanced to her right as Major Matthew Kirby (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg4560#msg4560) came alongside her.
"So your two dead kidnappers." Matthew said "Want to guess what they used to do for a living?"
"Don't tell me." Rion almost groaned "Anausa?"
"Yep." Matthew said handing Rion the file "What about that tweet?"
"Empty threat, kill Asuna and Charles loses his leverage, kill her and we kill him." Rion said "I'm not losing sleep over idiots who can't get the Crown Princess's twitter handle right and more than likely don't have a clue where Asuna is."
"Watch tracker has its advantages." Matthew said "So where are they going?"
"They know there's a huge search effort going on, so my guess is they're going to try and get out of the country, they can't take Asuna on a commercial flight or vessel so it'll be private charter by air or sea." Rion said "If it were me I'd take sea. But this isn't what's bugging me."
"What is?" Matthew asked
"This needed insider knowledge to pull off." Rion said
"Someone inside Pyrena?" Matthew asked
"Yes." Rion said "I need to talk to Emerson."

Emerson was sat aboard the Azukishima, working away in a near replica of his Pyrena Office including the adjoining door to Evanthe's office. He was arguably the calmest person on the ship because he knew how good Rion was at her job and he had plenty of faith that she'd get the job done. He half smiled as he took Rion's video call.
"Progress?" he asked
"The watch puts us in the game." Rion said "But that's not what's bothering me, I can handle a game of hide and seek. What's bothering me is how this happened, the people in the know detail wise are my CPT people and Rokkenjiman embassy personnel."
"So there's a mole." Emerson said
"That's my guess." Rion said "And Iso's to Shillings it's on Pyrena's side of the equation."
"I'll root them out." Emerson said "Wish me luck."
"Good luck." Rion said ending the call before Emerson looked up to see Evanthe in the doorway
"Yep we've got problems." the Viceregent said

Not that far away from the Azukishima the INS Kryptonite (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1868.msg16238#msg16238) was making it's approach towards the Rokkenjiman carrier Enterprise, on the frigates bridge Captain Lily Falconer (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg4171#msg4171) sat in her chair, as they went through the usual protocols "Put us alongside Mr Younger." Lily said to the officer manning the helm
"Aye Captain." the helm answered
"Com inform Vice Admiral Forrester that I'm heading over." Lily said "Apologise for the surprise."
"Yes Ma'am." the com officer said
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on January 09, 2023, 02:11:16 AM: IRN Enterprise

Forrester would make arrangements for Captain Falconer to be brought to her in-port cabin. "While I would usually give the welcome spiel I'm sure we're both in agreement we can dispense with the pleasantries," Forrester said as she motioned for the Captain to take a seat with her. "I've long been of the opinion that the best way to deal with Ofdensen is putting a bullet in the back of his head yet, here we are, he's whipped the Centre Party into submission in short enough order that if certain scenarios play out, he'll be the next Premier which spells trouble we both know well. What do you have for me?"
Things were going well so far, they had stopped at a gasoline stand and she had been given some time to use the bathroom whilst there. "I can't with the door open," she said, which prompted her captor to sigh, "Four minutes, no longer, then I'll kick that door in, understand?" to which she nodded. Once the door of the stall had closed she quickly got a message composed to Gemma. "Stopped at a gas stand, junction 5, smell of sea is getting stronger, bridge to south east? get me out of here they dont know what deodorant is :( "
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on January 19, 2023, 05:07:42 PM: Coincidences were sometimes wonderful things, at the exact moment that Asuna's message popped up on her phone Gemma was in Justicar Operations she instantly showed it to Rion. "Get me Junction five traffic camera on the M thirteen." Rion said, a few seconds later one of the large wall screens was showing a section of the services car park all looked normal and then a man walked out of the toilet block with a young girl in front of him.
"That's Asuna." Gemma said "She looks ok, well aside from the whole situation."
"You taught her what to do if this ever happened?" Rion asked
"Of course I did." Gemma said watching the camera feed "And that's a Range Rover they're traveling in."
"Can't see the plate, but that looks like a third generation." Rion said "Colin follow it on the network."
"I'd love to boss but Artaxia council is doing maintenance on their systems." Colin said
"So if they cross Ravensbridge." Rion said "We lose visual."
"And they just refueled so that's likely." Gemma said
"They're going to do one of two things." Colin said "They're either going to keep running or they're going to go to ground somewhere."
"Asuna is Charles's leverage they're probably not going to run around the country." Rion said "If it were me I'd pick somewhere and go to ground. You two grab a couple more bodies and get to Artaxia."
"They'll be over that bridge first." Gemma said
"I know but we'll be a whole lot closer." Rion said "Meanwhile I'll update."

On the Azukishima Emerson was walking into a meeting of the Imperial Council, taking his seat he looked around the table this was a group of people he'd handpicked to provide the voice of debate and scrutiny to decision making so the knowledge that one of them was working against them didn't sit particularly well. "There's only one item on the agenda." Emerson said "Efforts to recover Crown Princess Asuna continue to be undertaken by Achkaerinese agencies, my concern here however is how such an event even happened. The Crown Princess's schedule not to mention what goes with it are known to only a handful of people and not counting Asuna herself all but two of that group are in this room. Whichever of you betrayed the Crown Princess has twenty four hours to own up or when I find out who it is the repercussions will be far greater.
This is not the time to play games with me."

On the Enterprise, Lily took a breath there were far better ways of doing what she was here to do, though perhaps not as discreet. "I don't technically have anything for you, what I am here with is a request. You have within your command purview QCMB, given where this situation is likely to end up and the fact that Ofdensen will have military backing, we need to ensure that QCMB is not used as a means for Ofdensen to play around in the north. So I need you to look through whatever documents you need to and put together a list of who you cannot be sure of."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on January 26, 2023, 02:05:44 AM: As the car drove down the freeway the driver grew increasingly frustrated as the radiator began to spew steam. "Son of a bitch," he said, shaking his head as he pulled the car to the side of the freeway under protest. "Damn thing is shot," he said to his partner, who had left Asuna in the car. She knew escape wasn't an option at this point; the child locks were engaged and a crude divider separated the front and back seats of the vehicle. Still, she took the opportunity to fire off a message:

Marker 413, just beyond the bridge, coolant failure.
Charles had a moment he could not anticipate; even with the SCJ not hearing a case there was more which could be exploited to force an early exit of Evanthe from Chrysanthemum Throne. "While the SCJ may not hear cases against the Empress there is the matter of conflicts of interest which represent a direct threat to the security of the First Empire," Groves said as he spoke on a secured line with the Vicegerent. "I have a trove of information which highlights several of these, many of which involve what many contend is an improper transfer of power between Empress Saisei and Empress Evanthe. I have it on good authority that I would have solid ground to stand upon if I challenged that transfer and offer you one, just one, shot at ensuring such a challenge doesn't come: Empress Evanthe will resign, and Princess Kyōko will be named Regent. I don't need to remind you that certain accidents could happen if these demands are not met; you'll retain your post in name at least, and if everyone is on board we won't have any problems. I'm ending the call but please, do call back within 2 hours with your answer. Evanthe can go home to Seaforthian soil, with some part of her dignity intact at least, I'll allow her to live to see another day, but she will not rule Rokkenjima one day further. Also, the elections timetable, if we could move those forward as well?"
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on January 26, 2023, 09:12:06 PM: "He's not the organ grinder just the messenger boy." Nettie said when Emerson called the Marble Palace moments later and explained the situation
"It's clever." Serenity said
"How?" Emerson said
"See the whole board." Serenity said "He's trying to pin Kyoko as regent, so he wants her there."
"She's a threat." Nettie said "He wants her where she can be controlled."
"As opposed to her natural habitat." Emerson said "I'm getting the picture, Nettie does Charles still win?"
"Probably yes." Nettie said "But two thirds? No way."
"Emerson to be clear I am sunstriking both the embassy in Rokkenjima and Antares." Serenity said "I'm getting a briefing on that in half an hour and I'm having the Azukishima tied in."
"I haven't got the mole but it's never Rowe so that's simple enough." Emerson said "I'll see you then."

After hanging up Emerson poked his head out of the cabin "Ask Princess Kyoko and Minister Rei to come by in ten minutes." he said to the secretary sat out there before picking up the phone and calling Groves back "Don't make empty threats to me, we both know you're not going to make martyr's out of them, you want the Empress gone you're going to have to go to the SCJ and make your case." he hung up.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on January 29, 2023, 10:59:22 PM: Groves knew that the Supreme Court of Judicature was a dead end, the Empress enjoyed sovereign immunity and as such was beyond his reach through legal means. "You've failed," Charles said on the secured line, "leaving me with options that I rather would not have been forced to rely upon. I'm giving the order," Groves audibly sighed, "She's much too popular, you're making a martyr out of her," came his reply. "I'll champion her "death" and move the entirety of the nation, uniting it in one cause. The grief over her loss will help me to consolidate in ways I presently am unable to do so, and grant me my crown jewel upon the Throne. I will not be dissuaded."

"Then my use to you has come to an end," Groves said rhetorically.

"You'll be seen after, in a manner befitting of your contributions. Worry not my friend, failure is not a death sentence."

Once the line was dead Charles looked to the head of his security detail. "Make it look as though he died after a night of partying, face down in a bathtub littered with his vomit."
Kyōko and Rei would answer the summons in short order. "Has anything changed?" Kyōko asked swiftly. "Tell me there's news of Asuna."
The notification of her death was amusing for a moment before she sent a message to Gemma: "lol im dead now?"
OOC: Information will have been shared with key Rokkenjiman Allie’s. As I am at work at the moment consider this a placeholder for a proper response which will be written when I get home.
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on January 31, 2023, 02:13:55 AM: As soon as the social media notification had popped up, alarm bells had started ringing, wagons were being circled quite quickly, in truth these were the moments Rion was paid for and her instinct was usually spot on, they needed to act fast, one bit of fortune was in their favour, the watch signal was still stationary. She smiled as the plan formed in front of her, this was a bold move for Charles to make not to mention a risky one so it must be an important step, she needed to know his endgame perhaps there was a way to turn this to her advantage. Step one set the stage, step two get Asuna back, step three watch and wait like the lioness watching its prey. However first she had a trip to the morgue to attend to, it wasn't that much of a walk from the operations floor to the morgue but it was long enough for her to get orders out, waiting for Rion was Elena Walsh (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg9425#msg9425), the Justicar medic. On the slab was a body that looked like Asuna. "Go on." Rion said
"This is the body of an unknown female found at a farm on the outskirts of Artaxia following a call to local police, as you will observe she bears a pretty much exact resemblance to Asuna. Cause of death is gunshot wound to the head, there are other other injuries a gunshot wound to the back of the right leg and what appears to be bruising suggesting shes been beaten prior to death." Elena said "Time of death about ten last night. Someone went to an awful lot of trouble to make us think this is Asuna."
"Didn't Su Mai try this trick?" Rion asked
"This is a whole lot more sophisticated than Su Mai." Elena said "I took a DNA sample, it's not exact but this girl shares a significant amount of DNA with Asuna."
"This isn't science fiction." Rion said
"Never said it was." Elena said "At a guess this girl is a year maybe two younger than Asuna, similar height, similar weight. IVF does explain this, but how the samples were obtained..."
"Between having Asuna and Lucius" Rion said "Beatrice had a miscarriage, surgery was involved in the aftermath so that's one half. Charles was in charge of the health side of the family bet he could have got what he needed."

On the Azukishima Kayleigh was on the phone to Relkin at Abstergo doing so from her own quarters so as to not give out the sensitive nature of what she was doing even though this was taking a huge leap of faith. "Mr Relkin this is Kayleigh Pryde head of Royal Security at Pyrena, I need you to block Rokkenjiman intelligence access to the smart watch signal this is for the safety of the family and to prevent prying eyes from looking where they need not look, do you understand?" she waited for Relkin to confirm it was done before hanging up, they'd gotten a little bit lucky but they couldn't now show their hand, not to a compromised intelligence entity. Leaving her quarters she found her colleague Tori Baker (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg15578#msg15578).
"How bad is it?" Tori said
"Bad." Kayleigh said "Charles is making moves and I don't like it." she sighed "I'm ordering Farthing Wood." it was code for an evacuation of the Rokkenjiman Imperial Family, a protocol she'd put in place when she'd taken over and one she'd hoped to never to use. "Josiah and Lucius first. I'll arrange Evanthe's transport."
"Designated White Deer Park?" Tori asked
"Ivyfield Priory." Kayleigh said "Go tonight."
"Understood." Tori said

Elsewhere Emerson sighed "I wish I had something to say, but this isn't about her this is about what we do now." he said "Minister, Admiral Forrester has been asked to compile a list of personnel, when she has done so I need you as part of the defence posture review move those personnel to home bases within Rokkenjima, let's have the bad apples where we know they are." he turned his attention to Kyoko "You're the politician in the family, you know how the game is played, let Charles show his hand, we neutralise his plan and then we deal with him."

Gemma wasn't happy as she sped her car across Ravensbridge, the path that linked Icebridge island with Aelmoorr, she knew the risk to Asuna was now greater than ever, if Charles was prepared to have her death staged then it was possible to suggest that Asuna was now expendable or very close to being expendable, glancing at her onboard computer she could see that she was closing in on the now moving signal "Crystal to control." she said over her radio "Just coming off Ravensbridge."
"Have that." Rion said "Take the B17, you're about fifteen miles back but clearly going faster."
"What's the action?" Gemma asked
"We're going to thunderwave the car." Rion said "It's you against three maybe four targets."
"Lovely odds." Gemma said "On my go?"
"On your go." Rion said

Gemma kept driving, as she did so she sent Asuna a message When the car stops turtle up., hitting send as she closed to within two miles she kept her foot down, biting her lip, she'd never really considered her role as anything more than Asuna's bodyguard but she knew that from the Rokkenjiman perspective hers was a sacred duty as much as it was a professional one, What do you know I've turned into Captain Sisko the thought went through her head "Rion stop that car." she said
"Good luck." Rion said

What happened next happened fast, first from the skies above an Emolga (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1660.msg21447#msg21447) jet swept down, it was a very special aircraft for many reasons this time it was because it was the test platform for 'thunderwave' an emp device designed to stop a moving vehicle by frying onboard electronics, granted anything from earlier than the mid seventies was immune but in this instance the conditions were met, the aicraft closed in needing to be within two hundred metres did make this somewhat impractical in other scenarios but on home soil with no countermeasures to worry about it was perfect. The car ground to a halt, the driver got out of the car just as Gemma's car came roaring down the otherwise deserted road, slamming right into the driver with lethal force, casting him aside much like a rag doll, Gemma checked her rear view mirror, three more getting out of that car one appearing to have Asuna. Gemma steered her car into a tight handbrake turn before much like a knight in the lists setting off for a second lance, this time she ran down one more target before skidding the car to a halt, pistol drawn she got out of the car and ducked behind the engine block bullets flying above her head, two to go Jason Renback and Akane Fujimoto the latter holding Asuna. Popping up she let off two rounds and ducked again as Renback returned fire, predictably with an automatic weapon, the only other sound was of Asuna struggling with Akane, shots were exchanged as Gemma shifted position eventually getting enough vantage to down Renback, now she moved again chasing down Akane who was trying to get away.

"Let her go Akane." Gemma said taking a firing stance as Akane put her gun to the back of Asuna's head "Don't..."
"Drop it." Akane said "You pull that trigger I kill her."
"How far you've fallen." Gemma said "You put a gun to the blessed of Islyna's head? I am to her what Lucinda Hadley is to Beatrice and what you were to Cecelia, I am her guardian, my sworn duty is to protect her, I'm not about to put my sword down. Try me but you will die before you land a blow I promise you that." Akane sucked in a breath, as if steeling herself, one drop of the shoulder from the one time Anausa and Gemma fired, the bullet slicing through Akane's neck dropping her instantly "Don't turn." Gemma directed Asuna as she moved up and fired twice more to make certain, "Fiver secure. On our way back to burrow request air transport." she said over her com as she holstered her pistol and a split second later Asuna was hugging her. "I've got you." Gemma said kissing the top of Asuna's head "It's ok."

At the Marble Palace, Rion's report of Asuna being recovered prompted unconventional cheering in the Round Table room but that was soon quelled as they moved to the relevant of what to now do with Asuna.
"Speaking tactically." Rion said slowly looking around the table "I suggest we keep it a secret. Everyone thinks she's dead, the only people that know otherwise are our people and Charles. He wanted the world to believe her dead for a reason let's give him the rope. We should inform certain people but Rokkenjiman intelligence is a compromised entity so we shouldn't go there."
"Is Kyoko to be trusted?" Serenity asked
"This is where we have a problem." Mark Sharpe (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg1273#msg1273https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg1273#msg1273) said "We're all of the opinion that Charles has planned this for a long time, he was viceregent and Lord High Steward, he visited Rishiri on multiple occasions, he's met Kyoko when she was Lucretia Marino. It looks suspicious."
"On top of that this all started with Kyoko being dragged out of the woodwork by Charles and now she's Empress." Rion said
"Counter argument?" Serenity asked
"Asuna is still alive." Alex said "Third party surrogate IVF to fake a death is a lot of needless effort if Kyoko is on Charles's side of the equation. You'd just kill Asuna in that instance, staging the death implies they still wanted her for something."
"Leverage." Rion said "Dangle the hope of getting Asuna back alive in front of Kyoko and she'll play ball."
"Sounds familiar." Mark said
"Because it is." Serenity said "It's Cecelia all over again. Major Kirby sunstrike update."

"All data has been uploaded and everything has been packed we can close the embassy and render Antares inoperable within an hour of the order being given." Kirby said
"Nettie what does Charles have access to right now?" Serenity said
"Nothing much, he's mostly a bean counter, he can't order anything militarily but if he can compromise Kyoko..." Nettie said
"And there lies another issue." Mark said "To sustain this, Charles has to have his fingers in a few pies in particular the military. Remei Nine, the Peniche incident they indicate a possibility that he has some military support."
"I'm all for letting this play out a bit in order to discern the extent of his corrupting influence." Serenity said "But if he starts throwing the IRN around that will change. Rion notify Lucinda that Asuna is alive, she can tell Beatrice, but I do not want it public we keep a tight lid on it. Sally you do the same for our allies, Asuna is alive, we can prove that but we're not advertising it because it puts us ahead of Ofdensen and strongly recommend they cut Rokkenjima out of any intelligence sharing agreements."

"Understood." Sally said
"Charles will probably move quickly but not rashly." Rion said
"We have the upper hand now." Serenity said "Ok that's it see you all in six hours I need to go tell Euphy the good news."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on February 04, 2023, 11:20:43 PM: “Yes I quite understand, give it a few moments and it should be done.”
Kyōko sighed and listened as Emerson spoke. “I’ll see that the reassignments are put through with priority,” Rei answered. Kyōko nodded, “I’ll have to make my way to Pyrettania as to maintain appearances. I do suspect Charles will be suspicious if I’m away for too long, and with everything he’s done to my family I’d like to do what I can to contribute to his inevitable suffering.”
Asuna did as she told, shuddering as the second shot rang out, slumping into Gemma before sobbing. “I want mummy,” she repeated again and again, “can you take me to her? And Thomas, let him know I’m ok please?” she fired off words more quickly than her mouth could keep up with her mouth, leading her to stutter and slur her words at times before trying to take Gemma by the hand. “We have to get out of here, please get me out of here and take me to mummy?”
Beatrice was sleeping on the sofa, her head in Lucinda’s lap, as she took the call. She contained the urge to jump up in joy as she swept Beatrice’s hair from her face. “Hey you,” she said calmly, “Asuna’s safe, just as I promised she would be.” Beatrice stirred a bit then sat up, “Thank Islyna,” she sighed as she hugged Lucinda. “Now then, hen do we get you on the next flight to Pyrettania to splatter that bastard’s brains on the wall behind his desk?” Lucinda held a finger up to her lips, “We can think of his demise later, I imagine the first thing you’ll want me to arrange is getting her on the line to speak with you, she needs you now more than ever. I promise you though, his day will come, and we’ll make sure he gets all that he’s so justly due.”
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on February 12, 2023, 02:36:38 AM: The helicopter flight from the scene to Ivyfield Priory was quiet, partly because it was just Gemma and Asuna in the back but also because the mental exhaustion had kicked in and at various points only Gemma had been awake. During the flight Gemma had had the message, Asuna's being alive was now considered top secret information, known only to a very tight and trusted circle. When the helicopter touched down Gemma briskly got Asuna inside the house. It was Tori who greeted them
"How long have you been here?" Gemma asked
"Six hours or so." Tori said "Kayleigh called Farthing Wood, I brought Lucius and Josiah up overnight. Evanthe's in the air as we speak."
"So we're looking at the whole clan apart from Kyoko being here." Gemma said, she nudged Asuna "Go on you don't need to stand there and listen to us talk shop."

Having told Euphy about Asuna, Serenity was back in more meetings this time with Nettie the question was the same as it had been for a while now what was Charles plotting? The answer was that they had pieces but not the whole puzzle. "I think Charles is trying to roll back the clock." Serenity said "There's always been an attitude in post 2015 Rokkenjiman politics, that Rokkenjima was unfairly treated, their fall from grace right? From world leader to far less, in truth Rokkenjima dug itself into that hole by not being able to adapt to the post WARSAW world, there's a pantheon of high profile incidents..."
"And in all those incidents the international community, led usually by Peter, Joshua and David said no." Nettie said "And where do you find the two most developed diplomatic networks on Mundus? Northfort and Valtheim. That's his conspiracy."
"Plays the victim card, evokes a common trend." Serenity said "What does he do now?"
"Now he has a problem." Nettie said "He needs to deliver, which is difficult because the Premier does not control foreign affairs."
"So he either has to puppet Kyoko or he has to subvert or circumvent her." Serenity said
"Both are high risk." Nettie said "But achievable, he just needs a flashpoint, something to get the public with him to make Kyoko's job difficult."

"This doesn't end well does it?" Serenity said
"No it doesn't" Nettie said "There is the very real and very likely possibility of military action being taken against Rokkenjima on your order."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on February 15, 2023, 06:44:05 PM: for every move there's a counter move the time old phrase ran through Serenity's head as she paced around what was still her Dad's study, also present was her older brother Simon (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg177#msg177), the atmosphere was heavy enough what had happened around the Tokara Islands had led to an immediate summons for the Round Table Conference, the two of them were just waiting for everyone to get there which should be at any moment. It was at this point that their aunt Esme (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=49.msg192#msg192), Peter's sister, walked in and closed the usually open door behind her.
"I need to talk to you both." Esme said
"We're about to go into a meeting." Serenity said
"You're going to want to know this before you go in there." Esme said "And you're going to want to sit down."
"This sounds ominous." Simon said as Serenity sat down next to him
"This all started with Charles or Charles's agents pulling Kyoko out of hiding." Esme said "He knew that secret because he had Akane. He exposed it to set the board. But Charles isn't playing chess. Chess is a perfect information game, both players know all the pieces, where they are and all the moves. Charles thinks he knows all the moves, he doesn't because there are secrets he doesn't know."
"And we do?" Simon asked
"Yes." Esme said "Kyoko was a well kept secret, the deeper secret is in the leagues of it should never be spoken of."
"What is it?" Serenity asked
"Rokkenjima's line of succession?" Esme asked
"Asuna, Kyoko, then Beatrice is out so it runs back to Cecelia then it's Evanthe and then Euphy before we get into Constitutional issues." Serenity said
"You're missing a few people." Esme said
"Who?" Serenity said
"Yourself for starters." Esme said "Then there's me, Cerys, Sakura, your girls and yours Simon."
"How?" Simon asked

"You remember Kichiro Anselmo Simon?" Esme asked
"Cecelia's husband?" Simon asked "Barely."
"He couldn't have children." Esme said "You see the problem?"
"If the Blessed of Isylna can't have children questions, rumours etc abound." Simon said "Huge propaganda for the Federal Republic."
"Fortunately IVF was around." Esme said "Your father was the donor on both occasions. Lines of succession rely on biology not who filled a role."

There was a fair amount of silence as Simon and Serenity digested what they'd been told, as pep talks went it wasn't bad and as far as information went it was pretty helpful, then Serenity stood up "Do they know?" Serenity asked
"Not unless Cecelia's told them." Esme said
"Serenity." it was Nettie from the doorway "We're ready."
"Ok." Serenity said "Let's end this farce."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Beatrice on March 06, 2023, 12:13:54 AM: "I still feel off about leaving my sister out of this knowledge," Beatrice sighed as the rest of her family was present. She couldn't help but notice the awkward looks from Lucinda as she sat nestled against Alex, but both of them knew that the road ahead wouldn't be so simple and clear cut. "My girl is safe though, our precious Asuna is safe, and that's what is important," she continued after a pause. "What does this mean for your sister?" Alex would ask. "She'll serve her role at present, she'll represent the best of us, and once the time comes she will gracefully stand aside, I expect nothing less of her."

The moment when Beatrice would accept Asuna into her arms was a moment in which time itself almost seemed to stop, "I had every faith in you, my clever girl," she said with a kiss to Asuna's forehead, "I love you." "And I love you, mummy, you even got papa out of his crypt for the occasion," she said with a sly look to Alex. "You're lucky young lady," he said with a chuckle, "don't burn through your passes so quickly though. Welcome home, love."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on March 08, 2023, 09:57:48 PM: The word fury was not one normally associated with Rion but she was giving off that feeling and then some as she stepped into the Round Table Room where she found Serenity sat looking at the wall screen "You're not going to believe this." Rion said handing Serenity a copy of the latest Rokkenjiman press release (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=174.msg26584#msg26584) "Behold the victory of Charles Ofdensen."
"You've got to be kidding me." Serenity said reading it "What does Kyoko think she's doing? She knows the INIS is a compromised intelligence agency and she's taking their word? Not to mention this centre party insanity, so divorced from fact it's unbelievable. Charles blackmailed Yuriko a few years back and rigged a referendum that saw Koizumi forced from power that we know. And what party do both Yuriko Faust and Koizumi belong to?"
"The Centre Party." Nettie said coming in "You've read it then."
"Yep." Serenity said "Please tell me Emerson hasn't done anything rash yet."
"Not yet." Rion said
"Ok." Serenity said "Rion in your opinion does Charles Ofdensen actively sabotage this election?"
"In my opinion no." Rion said "Everyone knew about the paper voters, everyone knew that every election going back to 2004 had been rigged by that method and that said voters could be traced back to the Crown. She hasn't provided any proof that Charles did anything, doesn't mean someone else didn't but I don't buy him rigging this anymore than I buy the Centre Party doing it."
"Odds of a successful prosecution?" Nettie said
"Assuming a fair trial nill." Serenity said "No link, no smoking gun, no evidence and very clear other and more viable suspects and motives." she sighed "We're fairly certain Charles has an insider on the Imperial Council, who do you think?"
"Given todays silliness I put Lucius Stanley top of the list." Rion said "Assuming it's not Kyoko herself."
"Nettie?" Serenity asked
"I don't see it but it's plausible." Nettie said
"If your Charles what do you do Rion?" Serenity said
"I spark the war." Rion said "No way Charles doesn't have a contingency plan."
"Better find it fast." Nettie said

"Ok." Serenity said "Rion talk to Emerson you know what he needs to do."
"What about Charles?" Nettie asked
"She just answered that." Rion said "No noise right?"
"No noise." Serenity said "Work it out."
"Ok." Rion said
"And get me Charles's prison records." Serenity said "Tell Hannah to draft a press release in response to this, it'll make for decent bait at least if nothing else." she looked around "Figure his final move and then we end this."
Title: Re: "The time has come" the Fox said "to talk of many things."
Post by: Achkaerin on March 12, 2023, 05:12:00 PM: Kyoko's desire to move from Pyrena to the Imperial Palace couldn't really have come at a better time as it meant that a whole variety of people were scattered between the two buildings as step by step the transfer took place, this was important as it made organising things that the Empress need not know about a whole lot easier this had been one of Emerson's jobs to make sure that to quote the job description Lucinda Hadley so often recited "the hands of the crown were clean." it hadn't been easy but being Viceregent gave him the clout to arrange the passage and circumstances that had needed arranging, the hard part had been keeping Kyoko none the wiser, something achieved by the rather predictable and understandable backlash to her decisions, in truth it couldn't have been better set up if it had tried. If all went as it should he was in the final days of occupying the role, though whether it turned out that way was well and truly in the hands of a higher power. Either way the cards had been dealt it was just a case of who played their hand best.

Exuperia Palace was seeing what might be regarded as a game of musical chairs taking place - those accused of being co-conspirators were being moved to other accommodation, this had been easy for Emerson to arrange given the symbolism of the Palace in relation to the Anselmo family Kyoko hadn't raised eyebrows or objections, now what hadn't been said was that one occupant - Charles was not being moved well not yet at least, it was a fairly common sense move with legal proceedings pending to separate out the accused and prevent them from cheating the system, but with where things stood this was more smoke and mirrors, armoured trucks were an appropriate means of removing the 'inmates' but, with the area secured, they were also a very effective way of getting someone in without attracting attention, in this instance Serenity herself - a very odd choice on the face of it but on this occasion arguably the right one, she knew the facts, she knew the history and this was something personal now, which it hadn't been at the start of this whole mess. Stepping into the living space she half raised an eyebrow at Charles's expression.

"Don't act surprised." Serenity said
"What are you doing here?" Charles asked
"I can't come and congratulate you on a game well played?" Serenity said putting a bottle on the table with her gloved hands "As long games go it was excellent." she sighed "How does it feel just over twenty five years of scheming and effort and here you are, Rokkenjima's reputation in tatters, an Empress well and truly out of her depth and not a shred of evidence connecting you to any of it. Seemed appropriate as this has been our dance since that day in court."
"You wouldn't be trying to get me to tell you?" Charles said
"I'm not that desperate." Serenity said "I know a fair amount of it and can guess the rest, what of that I can prove? Nothing really. It is a masterclass though and all because Cecelia said no in 1997. So for the crime of the mother you visit retribution on the daughter."
"You really want to go over old ground?" Charles asked
"No I just need to know if I'm right" Serenity said "You had Cecelia locked up in Slava Lavosk, you're not the sentimental type so she's leverage, you're obviously going to dangle her in front of Beatrice but you didn't, why? Unless you were worried she wouldn't cave, that's it right? Between David, Joshua and my Dad there was quite a lot of support for Rokkenjima and oddly for Beatrice some trust expressed, dangle the carrot you can't predict her response and coups require predictable behaviour. So you swapped to drugging her, made her compliant and it worked. You must wonder where it all went wrong, even I didn't have it until recently."
"I'm not following." Charles said
"You had everyone spinning - the Rokkenjiman authorities more concerned with finding Asuna than watching Toshikawa, Beatrice is drugged so not mentally competent that challenges a preconception, I always assumed Beatrice sent the countermand order but she was drugged so she shouldn't have been able to that's what you assumed as well and it's a correct assumption, but the countermand came from her computer, and how fitting it is that the Anselmo you discounted is the one that came back to bite, I wouldn't have got there unless I was dating her but you forgot about Euphy." Serenity said "And then it all came out and you panicked."

"I what?" Charles asked
"Nueva Ardia went to the CTO demanding justice, Evanthe was secretary general you calculated correctly that she wouldn't stand a debate involving her cousin being tried, but then I succeeded her and I had no such bias, you couldn't stop it so you ran." Serenity said "You really should have argued unlawful arrest. Maybe then you don't end up in prison. That should have been the end of it but Beatrice perjured herself in the Imperial Address."
"You realise you aren't saying anything new?" Charles said
"We're getting there." Serenity said "How did you know Groves?"
"He worked for me at Orchid before Abstergo was a thing." Charles said "Before he went into politics."
"And when did you hatch the idea to have him try to seduce Evanthe?" Serenity said, Charles didn't react "Don't play dumb it was all over the news in Rokkenjima speculation about a relationship, not a bad gambit actually, Beatrice is in prison, Evanthe on the throne it does make sense - Groves gets close to her, gets involved with her, eventually marries her all you’ve got to do then is off Asuna which isn’t that much of a problem and then Evanthe’s Empress in her own right.” Serenity half smiled “But she made a different choice, so that’s the mother, the first daughter and both cousins all thwarting you in their own way.”
“Thwarting me of what?” Charles asked “You tell a good story and you’re a decent guesser but you’ve got no basis.”
“Haven’t I?” Serenity said “Charles Foster Ofdensen in 1985, 1990, 1995 and 2000 you stood to be President of the Federal Republic of Rokkenjima, but you never got passed the preliminaries. You actually had a half decent career going and a few half decent ideas but never had the support to get to the people. Whatever made you snap drove you to conspire with Cecelia, who you betrayed and Beatrice who you also betrayed. This is a thirty eight year power trip fuelled by your lust, nothing noble about it. And then there’s Kyoko…”
“What about Kyoko?” Charles asked

“The card you were ultimately forced to play.” Serenity “I suspect if Groves and Evanthe had lived happily ever after then Lucretia Marino has a tragic accident after all you knew who she was and you’d assume she’d be told. But having been foiled of that you played a blinder. You had conspired with Akane to foil Cecelia’s attempted reclamation, she’d told you about Kyoko so you pulled her from obscurity, you practically burned the INIS but reward outweighs risk, though even you couldn’t have imagined she’d be this beneficial, jumps the gun, listens to an over zealous Lucius Stanley and essentially carries out what looks like a coup, all your birthdays came at once. Not quite how you planned it but fortunate for you at least. But here’s the thing Kyoko doesn’t have an actionable case against you, I on the other hand do.”
“For what?” Charles asked
“Conspiracy to murder.” Serenity said “The funny thing with conspiracies is that you can play the perfect game but the odds of everyone playing the perfect game are slim to none, sometimes as in the case of the IRN Kurogitsune it works for you because plausible deniability is plausible deniability and despite all the questions nothing currently puts you giving the order to fire. But you’re always counting on luck, because you need everyone you’re orchestrating to do what you’re saying and that generally includes one thing destruction of communications.” she took out a phone “This phone belonged to one of Asuna’s kidnappers, it’s mostly unamazing except for a chatroom app, doesn’t sound unusual right? But the last received message in this chat is a kill order, so whoever sent that message ordered her death.” she was pacing around now “And the interesting thing with this app is you can call as well as chat. So let’s find out who this belongs to.” she hit dial and within a split second later Charles’s phone rang “I’m guessing not your actual phone… ask me.”
“If you knew that then why come here why not go to Kyoko?” Charles said

“Because I’m giving you a choice before I see her.” Serenity said “I could get you extradited, prosecute you, land you in jail, but I have other things to worry about. You know when that order was sent and you know what will become apparent when I compare that to Asuna’s ‘date of death’ you really want me to unveil the full extent of this or do you want to save that which you fought for?”
“What do you mean?” Charles asked
“Your victory is Pyrrhic, you’re a democratically elected head of government forced from power by a Monarch who doesn’t like you and is so bent on her own retribution that she is prepared to destroy Rokkenjiman democracy to get it, she hasn’t seen it but that’s what she’s doing censorship of a political party, that’s a freedom of expression issue and a freedom of assembly issue right there. You didn’t rig that election, it would have been foolish, after all you’ve rigged way too many and burned that to get the office reinstated, smart move to make it look like the crown did it. So no you didn’t rig it but a third party did. Took us a while but East Moreland pointed out a fishing business in Pyrettania, we took a look and found an account in the name of Travis Lia Courage. Not a couple as the account suggests but an anagram of Gervais Courtiel, money launderer and businessman believed to be the money of the Sorority of Materna. You didn’t rig it, it would have been counter to your strategy but clearly a few people financing the campaign, third parties, didn’t think you’d win without help, that’s not all they did though.”
“Meaning?” Charles asked
“Where’s the submarine Charles?” Serenity said
“Submarine?” Charles asked
“The Clysperi one.” Serenity said “The one that the Sorority helped slip the northern ocean when they hijacked the Poseidon.”
“Why would I want a submarine?” Charles asked
“For this moment.” Serenity said “Forced from power, facing only circumstantial evidence, one final attack, not bad in theory, but if successful you justify Kyoko cracking down hard and killing Rokkenjima’s democracy. You don’t want that, you want the opposite.”
“It’s not an attack it’s a diversion.” Charles said “Rokkenjima’s air defences would shoot down a cruise missile.”
“Diversion from what?” Serenity said
“The real attack.” Charles said
“Ok, details.” Serenity said “Written confession, everything about what’s about to happen and who your insider on the Imperial Council is.”
“And then?” Charles asked
“Then you decide how this ends.” Serenity said

Charles wrote for a while detailing everything, whether it would make a difference or not Serenity didn’t know but it didn’t matter to her, as she read over Charles’s shoulder. “Now what?” Charles asked when he’d finished
“The choice is yours but you already know that and what I mean.” Serenity said “I’ve got you on multiple charges, so it’s life in prison or you can take a swig from that bottle of mead.”
“What’s the poison?” Charles asked putting two and two together
“It’s a honeyed mead same brand as what’s in the cellar just different type, you have a honey allergy.” Serenity said
“Anaphylaxis.” Charles said “Why?”
“Because Asuna doesn’t need or deserve the pressure of having to rebuild Rokkenjima’s democracy.” Serenity said “I’d like nothing more than to see you rot but I will choose hope over division any day. Your call.”

There were a few seconds silence before Charles took the bottle, opened it, poured a glass and drank it down, once it was over Serenity slipped out the way she’d come in, once she was back in the back of the truck and being driven away she was on the phone to Emerson, “It’s a bait and switch, the subs a diversion we have two subs sat in the area and plenty of airpower in the area so does the IRN find it, the main threat is inside the imperial palace”
“From?” Emerson asked
“Clarence Frederick inside, and a rogue above.” Serenity said
“Imperial Councillor for Environmental Affairs.” Emerson said “Green Party, should have guessed.”
“I’m on my way over.” Serenity said “Stop him.”

No sooner had Emerson put the phone down than he ran to Kayleigh’s office “Clarence Frederick, deadly force if necessary. Go.” he said
“Wouldn’t have bet on him.” Kayleigh said getting on her radio as she ran from the room, this had been the worry all along, what exactly was the insider’s role - to report back absolutely but they also were ideally positioned to make an attempt on Kyoko, something given what was believed about Charles’s plan would have been necessary unless of course Kyoko herself had been the insider, something now disproven. Kayleigh was prepared for this, moving the Anselmo’s to Ivyfield had been part of that, reduction of targets, it was dangling Kyoko like bait but it was effective. Racing up the stairs the call came that Clarence wasn’t in her office which only served to speed Kayleigh up, drawing her pistol as she spotted Clarence moving towards Kyoko’s study Kayleigh sped up more “Stop right there Councillor!” Kayleigh said, Clarence turned “Don’t open that door.” it almost happened in slow motion, Clarence turned the handle and had the door half open when Kayleigh’s bullet ripped through her dropping the councilor to the floor, “Get me a medic.” Kayleigh was on her radio again “Target down.”

Outside Serenity, now driving her own car was pulling up, Emerson greeting her.
“Reports coming in.” Emerson said “Charles Ofdensen found dead, accidental causes.”
“Clarence?” Serenity asked
“Detained.” Emerson said “Now what?”
“That’s up to Kyoko she can either correct herself and commit to due process or she can continue with populist tactics and alienate herself further, which has one heck of a knock on effect.” Serenity said “The sub?”
“Sunk I think one of yours got it.” Emerson said
“It’s over then.” Serenity said “Good."