The Tyrannic Phoenix

[Cidonia]

What is Cidonia? Cidonia is a nation that was founded aeons ago by their great leader El Cid. The nation itself was full of hard-boiled, hard-working and cynical people who seen a dictatorship as the worst type of government, after all the others. Therefore they accepted a supreme rule and trusted in their leadership. Together with a nation once known as Sortain, Cidonia dominated the eastern hemisphere of ancient Europe, eventually becoming one of the largest nations in the world. However, fate would not allow it to stand, nor any other nation. A nuclear winter soon approached the people of the past and the Cidonian nation, as many other nations, disappeared into nothingness.

Now, after a time unknown, the Cidonians reawaken to take the lands that were theirs, harvest and work their lands and create a bigger and creater Cidonia. A cult has arised over the past of Cidonia, many of the people in the nation worship the first founder, El Cid and therefore the religion Cidism was founded in Cidonia, as well as naming their currency the Cid.

In a deep catacomb of caverns under the ground the Cidonian nation hibernated until they were discovered by the self-proclaimed archaeologist, entrepreneur, rock singer and professional limbo dancer Yankel Ari Blaž Uriel. Uriel uncovered the nation deep under the surface and the first man he released from hibernation he himself declared the Supreme Leader of the new Cidonia, Timotei Hermanson.

Timotei Hermanson is the son of now deceased lieutenant in the Cidonian army and his mother who awoke from hibernation with him, Kiki Hermanson, a housewife. Timotei Hermanson was a construction builder in old Cidonia and in his past-time he liked to go bowling. He was dating a woman at the time but then the nuclear winter came and.. yeah. His experience with leading is miniscule, he has no understanding of strategy and it is believed that the real person behind Timotei is his mother, Kiki.

As is Cidonian culture, the people accept the Supreme Leader without objections until their leadership is worthy of questioning should the leader make too many mistakes or lead the country into despair and is not accounting for the well-being of the people. So, for the benefit of the doubt, the people of Cidonia accept Hermanson as their Supreme Leader, for the time being. Some however do not:

1. Josselin Jordanes - One of the more liberal aspirers in the nation. He wants to lead Cidonia into a democracy and an open society where every man can aspire to be what he wants to be. A drafted army supporter, dove lobbyist who is supposedly a socialist. Amongst Cidonians he will be critically eyed, but internationally he is without a doubt favoured.
2. Galen Luitpold - Loud, obnoxious and full of hot air. Once the leader of the Cidonian Senate (dissolved many years ago) he wrote many of the former leader's speeches and loves big rhetoric that goes around the point of the matter, then almost back to it, then throws in some allegories and then finally gets to the point. He, like Jordanes, wants to bring Cidonia back to former glory, but isolate it rather than have it intervene in politics that, in his idea, are a bunch of shit anyway. Cidonia is the only thing that matters.
3. Viktor Nazar - Former 5-star General of the Cidonian National Army who also fought in two wars is ready to revive Cidonia to its old glory. Militaristic to the max, hawk lobbyist and plans to continue the interventionist policy of former Cidonia. He is not afraid of a fight but is currently waiting to show presence in the current power struggle, observing the other aspirers. War mongering included.
4. Arkadios Livianus - This man who sounds like he came from a land even more ancient than old Cidonia wants to declare 'The Republic of Cidonia' and lead the nation into a more down-to-earth and naturistic way of life. Only Cidonian citizens will be granted rights and immigrants and non-cidonians would become slaves to the Cidonian Republic. Technology? Unheard of! Stick to the good old values of family and tradition. If an enemy wishes to attack us then we will call upon our alliances which he plans to forge that will be based on hardcore dove lobbyism and a lot of trade agreements.

These men aspire to become the next Supreme Leader of Cidonia. Who will pave the way to Cidonian glory as it was in the past? Time will tell...

 

[Cidonia]

Josselin Jordanes - I

Whilst the roads and houses of Cidonia are being extended and the lands colonized once again, a man with a vision, Josselin Jordanes, begins to think about how he could become Supreme Leader of Cidonia to then lead Cidonia into an open democracy and a happier Cidonia and happier people. In his office, a kitchen in the canteen near a construction site, he discusses the possibilities with his co-worker Gena Noy.

"I really think I can make a difference." Josselin mutters towards Gena "I know Cidonians deserve better. We deserve a democracy!" he exclaimed whilst cutting the tomatoes. "Listen, Josselin. I hear democracies are great n' all, but you have to look at it this way." he points at a pot "See this? Imagine a soup is in there and you are cooking it all by yourself. You know what you're doing right?" Josselin nods and stops cutting the tomatoes "Well imagine I try to help you and Boro tries to help you and the foreman Chioma tries to help you. Do you think the soup would still be good?" Gena raises his eyebrows and shrugs "Democracies are fallible Josselin. Give it up. Besides Timotei is doing good so far." Josselin sighs "I guess you are right. Maybe I am too idealistic?" "Maybe you have to cut those tomatoes." Gena gestures at the tomatoes and cuts up some potatoes.

After the 14 hour shift Josselin begins to lurch his way towards the worker barracks where he and 19 other 'Rebuilders of the Nation' rest before the next days to come. Before going to bed he inquires his colleagues what they would think of a democracy. "Why don't people want change?" Josselin questions his bed neighbour whilst laying in his own bed "I mean, why wouldn't the people like to take part in forming their nation? Being able to decide what becomes of our country?" he looks at his colleague in the other bed "Josselin" the colleague replies, his name is Sigurd Hjalmarr, a sturdy and tall young man who works on the construction site of the Intelligence Agency Building itself "We are forming the nation. Right now. It is being formed while we speak. If you want to make a difference, you have to do it now in this time of change. I fear that your attempts will fall on deaf ears." he replies. A few seconds after the lights are off "I will support you. Cidonians deserve a democracy." he says before closing his eyes. Josselin simply replies "Do they want one?" he asks Sigurd. He gets no answer.

The next morning Josselin hopes to be able to change something in the hearts and minds of the people. During the preperations for lunch he contemplates actually doing something for once. "Gena, I will tell the people of democracy today. We need to start a movement, a protest or something." Gena stops preparing the potatoes for a moment, then continues and replies "Shut up and cook the meat..." as Josselin looks away, even more determined to undermine his plan of helping the Cidonians find the light of democracy.

It is then in the middle of the lunch break and with the canteen full he decides to take his chance. The muttering sounds of discussion are heard throughout the lunch canteen and his first attempts to bring attention to his plea are ignored. "Comrades, a moment please!" he yells but it goes unnoticed. "Comrades, I have an issue of importance to all of you!" he yells again. Again, no one looks. The third time he gets on a table where some men are eating and begins to yell "Comrades! Hear me! It is the time for change in the ways of Cidonia!" he begins and the crowd of hungry and tired workers pause for a moment to listen.

"For all of Cidonians history we have been ruled by dictators that call themselves supreme or superior. I have a vision that foresees that not only will the leader of the nation be superior, but the entire nation and all of the people! Today after our shift I suggest we protest against the ancient ways and demand elections, free elections where every man and woman can decide who will lead the country and to establish a parliament! I believe we can do it, but I can not do this alone. After the shift, we strike!" he holds up his arm triumphantly and clenches his hand to a fist.

The reaction he gets is underwhelming, alone Sigurd and his table stand up and clap to applaud Josselin's speech. He quickly gets down from the table and hurries back into the kitchen, followed by laughs and whispers. Did he ask for too much? Will there be consequences? Only after his speech he realizes what he has done. "You're fucked." Gena replies bluntly has Josselin enters the kitchen again. For now, he can continue to cut the tomatoes...

 

[Taley]

New Cidia

Chargé d’affaires Arnolfo Vizzoni had his hands full in New Cidia. He was overseeing the construction and renovation of the new embassy in the Cidonian capital. But the other job he held was Section Chief for the Intelligence Secretariat. Cidonia was a wakening nation that had great promise, especially enough promise to help the empire.

He was walking down a long corridor with construction on either side and in nearly every room. The smell of fresh paint hung in the air as the sounds of hammers and saws were echoed around him.

"Questo è il colore sbagliato. Cambiare ora!"* Vizzoni yelled at some painters as he passe through the reception area to the Ambassador's Office. Some people don't listen, he thought to himself.

He walked into the large office soon to host the new Ambassador to Cidonia. Some men were working to install bullet proof windows along the corner of the room. "Tutti fuori!"** Arnolfo had a meeting to arrange between the new ambassador and General Nazar. He dialed the number to the general's secretary.

*"That's the wrong color. Change it now!"
**"Everyone out!"

 

[Cidonia]

Viktor Nazar - 1

The whistling of the artillery rounds pierce the young man's ears before they hit the ground with gusto. It's been going on the entire day and hasn't been cooling off. Luckily the enemy planes are being kept away due to his own airforce and the anti-air, but for how long? He can't forget to advance. His men are depending on him. He just got out of the academy, this is too much for him. He looks around, his troops are ready, their faces hidden by their heavy helmets. He looks down at his clock. It seems to be going backwards... Confused he ignores it and looks out of the woods towards the village they are about to assault. "Sir..." he hears someone say. He turns around, the soldier who tapped on his back is looking down "Chin up soldier, what is it?" Viktor answers him and the soldier slowly lifts his head. His face has a gaping hole in it and is bleeding heavily but he calmly replies "It is time to wake up, sir." in an oddly feminine voice...

Viktor jolts up in his bed, sweating and panting. He looks around and notices his secretary at the end of the bed "S-sir... time to get up. The officer meeting is in half an hour..." she tells him, looking worried. "A-a-alright... thank you, Jasmin..." he holds his head and she calmly walks out of the room. The nightmares still haunt him.. He quickly gets himself ready but despite his efforts arrives to the meeting a few minutes late.

"Gentlemen. Excuse my tardiness." Viktor mutters to the senior officers of the Cidonian Rebuilding Plan Unit whilst wiping the sweat off of his forehead. The meeting goes well and the future of the nation are discussed especially concerning security and the expansion of the infrastructure within Cidonia. "Sir, I am worried about possible hostile entities entering at our borders. The borders are large and we would be stretched thin controlling them" one of the generals remarks "Concentrate on controlling the perimiters where we have advanced already. Pull up those houses and pave those streets." he firmly counters "We will do fine. Are there any dire problems for now?" the generals shuffle their papers and look through their notes and jointly negate with head-shaking "Excellent then I will see you tomorrow same time gentlemen. Keep up the good work. Good day, hail Cidonia." he stands up and salutes as do all others and he swiftly leaves the room.

He is quickly escorted by Jasmin towards his office "Sir, I have a few things here. Supreme Leader Hermanson wanted to meet with you, concerning how he should react to the lack of equipment on the construction sites." "Do I look like a foreman? What else?" "General Heshel wanted to know if he can advance 50-100 clicks on the North and Northeastern fronts concerning rebuilding" "I told them they are free to do what they want until the border unless they encounter resistance, like a bandit encampment or something. What else?" he asks again as he enters the office, saluted by his 2nd secretary, the secretary of Jasmin. He enters his office and Jasmin waits until he is seated "Yes?" he raises his eyebrows, Jasmin replies "Private Dubglas got a call while you and I were out at the meeting from a Mr. Arnulfo or Arfluo, he wasn't sure" she informed him.

Momentarily afterwards Private Dubglas enters and saluts "Thir, requetht to inform General Nathar about phone call, thir!" he almost yells, Viktor stands, salutes him and calmly nods "Speak soldier." "Thir, the person who called theems to be an embath-embath..." he pauses "a delegate from the nation of of Telemantroth, thir!" Viktor nods calmly and salutes the Private who then leaves "Ok Jasmin, arrange a meeting with this Arnfulo embassador from Talemantros. Ask if he wants it to be more official with press and all the snazz or confidential. Secure line oh and find out his right name so I don't look like a fool. Also tell General Heshel to also send a recon force towards the west, we have been lacking intelligence from there." Jasmin nods quickly, taps her heels and as she is about to leave the room Viktor adds "Oh and tell Hermanson I will be with him in a moment." she nods with her back towards him and leaves the room, closing the door behind her. Viktor finally sits down, sighs and loosens his tie slightly...

 

[Taley]

New Cidia

Prince Beniamino de Vesci, Despot of Sicily, was going over some documents sent over by the Intelligence Secretariat about the various aspects of reconstruction in Cidonia. While construction was still going on all around the building but it was finishing up.

"Arnolfo has the IS sent over the new briefs of on Timotei Hermanson. We need to know if he will work along our plans and if not how to find someone that will."

"Your highness they will send them over later today. But first we have the meeting with General Nazar. He seams to be our best bet in gaining an ally in Cidonia."

"Well Cidonia used to be known for their military, so having a friendly contact there would make things a lot easier. Where's the meeting at?"

"Its set up for his office your highness, and after we go to meet the new Supreme Leader to present our credentials."

"Then Anrolfo lets go make a deal."

 

[Cidonia]

Luitpold / Nazar

Galen Luitpold was a prominent figure in local Cidingrad politics at the time but his fame seldomly rose above that of the city limits besides a few scandals or times when he opened his mouth open so wide he insulted people beyond the city limits as well. A prime example which almost cost him his political career was when he was seen leaving a brothel. Luckily for him his brother owned it so he could play it down as a family visit, the explanation alone leaving him open to a lot of ridicule for obvious reasons.

Now, Luitpold was at square one. He had nothing to build upon as his entire past is forgotten and every Cidonian has the chance for a new start. The poor constrution worker has just as much the chance as a formerly rich politician such as Luitpold. This time however, his father is not there to help him up the stairs to power as he was in the past.

He sighs as he looks upon the government buildings being built behind him. All of his contacts from before ignore him and he has been forced to become a construction worker. Idly staring at the Palace of the Supreme Leader being constructed in the background he is screamed at by a foreman "Luitpold! Get back to work!" he hears as he continues to close up the walls around him. The gigantic underground citadel will become the new capital of Cidonia, New Cidia. Currently Luitpold is working on constructing the immigration office. All buildings are in the form of cubes and with flat roofs to facilitate extension. They aren't pretty, but easily built. Luitpold curses under his breath and damns the lack of creativity from the leadership. If only someone would help him get a foot back into the door of politics... If only he wasn't such a pain in the ass, some would think as well. Either way Luitpold continues to work on the walls, whilst elsewhere, people are already deep in the political sphere...

Such as Viktor Nazar. After taking a short pause he went to meet the Supreme Leader, Timotei Hermanson himself. He walked up to his office and went in saluted by the two guards in front, perhaps the only men in the building that are armed, a disgrace in the eyes of Viktor. "Ah General Nazar, good to see you, sir. You know my mother, Kiki?" Hermanson gestures towards his mother who simply nods. Viktor nods in return "A pleasure" then turns towards Hermanson "You bid for me sir?" "Ah yes, we are lacking some raw materials on the construction sites currently, mainly metal for girders. Governmental buildings have priority but buildings and offices on the surface are being paused. What do you suggest we do?" he asks and plays around with his hands. His mother all the while inspecting both of the men. As Hermanson paces back and forth between the window and the desk, Nazar replies "Sir, I think we should expand farther into the north towards the mountains and see if we can setup some mines and factories in the near vicinity. After the roadwork is done we can get iron to the cities." Hermanson stops and nods "The mountains, they are where?" he inquires, Kiki snaps at him "They are in the north you oaf! I told you to study the map!" she rises from her rocking chair and begins to talk to General Nazar "General Nazar, advance towards the north and secure the mountains. Begin extracting the necessary metals needed." "Yes ma'am. It will be done." he replies, realizing who really is in charge of the country... "General Hershel happens to be on his way to the north already, as I ordered earlier." Kiki nods and smiles "Good. You are dismissed general." she waves lightly to him and turns back towards her chair. Timotei watches her scuffle towards the seat and with eyebrows raised bids General Nazar farewell before turning towards the window and gazing into the deep citadel that is New Cidia. Nazar salutes and disappears.

On his way he is intercepted by Jasmin "You are always two steps ahead of me, Jasmin." "Yes sir General Nazar, it's my job." she smiles quickly and continues "Sir, the Chief Intelligence Officer to Talementros, Mr. Arnolfo Vizzoni will be ready to meet you in your office at 16:00. He also requested to meet the Supreme Leader." "Uh huh" he nodded "Yes, that should be addressed to the Supreme Leader's secretary. Security wise it should be fine, only allow Arnulfo access. Anything else?" "No, sir. That is all... also your daughter called." "The usual?" "Yes." "She will have to wait, we are under restrictions. She doesn't need no damn cell phone... They grow s-s-so fast." Jasmin nods and parts ways as Nazar enters his office, greeted by private Dubglas.

General Nazar entered his office and found a man sitting opposite of his desk, he looked back to Pvt. Dublas who replied "Ambathador Vithth...Vitsch.... from Talemantroth, thir." Nazar entered and closed the door, the Chief Intelligence Officer got up and shot his right hand forward "Ah, Generalissimo Nazar, a pleasure to meet you, molto piacere. I hope you do not mind?" "Oh not at all" he shakes his hand and goes towards his seat "Please, sit down Mr. Vizzoni. What brings you to the glorious nation of Cidonia? Especially considering we have closed borders at the moment, we do however greet your initiative." Vizzoni nods "Yes, we know that Cidonia is a proud nation and we know that you value it's military greatly, especially you." he smiles "Therefore we took the initiative of applying for an embassy and it was granted by your Supreme Leader himself!" Viktor nodded and leaned back in his chair "Yes, our Supreme Leader... Have you met his mother?" "No, but I will meet her and your Supreme Leader after our engagement, I presume?" Nazar nodded and there was a moment of silence. Nazar interrupted by asking "As you may now we are in the middle of rebuilding our nation and we happen to be low on building materials. If Talemantros could supply some support, Cidonia would show itself thankful in the long-term." Arnulfo nodded "Si, I think it is a possibility, I will address it to your Supreme Leader... We also have high hopes in yourself, signor Nazar." he leaned forward as did Nazar after some hestitation "You see, signor Nazar" Arnulfo began, laying his arms crossed and on the table, looked back towards the door, then back to General Nazar "we believe that you would be a better Supreme Leader and ally than Mr. Hermanson. I belive that, with your cooperation of course, the nation can be lead to a better future than a Hermanson ever could provide." Nazar heard his proposal and slowly leaned back, as did Vizzoni.

Nazar paused for a moment, then put his hands together and towards his chin. He turned his chair towards the window where the Intelligence Agency's building was being constructed. He nodded. "Mr. Vizzoni, you will hear from my secretary. I do believe Talemantros and Cidonia will have a good future together." he stood up and saluted Mr. Vizzoni who got up, saluted as well and smiled. He left the room, getting ready for his next meeting. Nazar looked towards the door closing, then towards the Cidonian flag. He smiled.

 

[Cidonia]

Arkadios Livianus

Arkadios Livianus wanders around his freshly built villa out on the fields that he claimed his own. This already increased tensions with the government but he ignores their threats completely. Also the fact that he holds some people as slaves brings a lot of trouble, but his followers protect him and for the time being he can act freely. The fields are claimed without any reasoning, he just had the fields plowed by his 'slaves' and the villa was built without any permission. Without any technology as well besides a heated floor and running water.

Arkadios begins talking to one of his slaves "Slave 4, note this down, it is an address to my followers for the next meeting." he bids. All the slaves carry electronic braces around their necks to make sure they follow orders. Some of them have already run away, others who lacked willpower stay behind and follow Livianus' bidding. "Dear followers of the true cause of Cidonia. I bid you to meet me the following weekend at my villa to discuss the future of Cidonia and how we can Cidonia to great glory and prosperity... and..." he stopped walking around and the slave stopped to write for a moment looking at him "shall I finish the rest sir?" the slave asked. Arkadios waved and said "Very well, I have a lunch soon with colleagues of the future senate. Do finish that and you will be free to do as you please until dinner." "Yes sir." Arkadios then walked out and into the middle of the villa and relaxed in the sun.

After falling asleep he was woken up by a 'slave' "Master Livianus... Master... there are some men in uniform outside they wish to speak to you... I think they are from the ar-" "What?!" Livianus jumped up and hurried towards the door, accompanied by the 'slave' "What do they want? I told them to leave me alone! Where are the guards?" "They are eating, sire." "Damned them all! Call them at once!" "Yes master!" the slave hurried off and Livianus stormed towards the door "Brutes! Oafs! What do you want? Get off of my land!" he screamed at them. 5 soldiers stood in the doorway, army and with armor. One of them, the officer, unholstered his gun and the other soldiers stood at guard as well as Livianus came closer. Livianus stopped and screamed at them from across the hall "Get out! What do you want?" "Arkadios Livianus?" "You bet I am! Get off before my guards show you where you belong!" "Arkadios Livianus, you are under arrest in the name of the Supreme Leader Timotei Hermanson. Come along or we will have to use force." Livianus laughed loudly "Hah! Guards!" and just as he said it the slave and 20 of Livianus' guards arrived "Sorry, sire..." the slave muttered "Silence!" Livianus screamed "Get them out!" he turned towards where he came and disappeared. The soldiers of the Cidonian National Army, clearly outnumbered, slowly backed off and left the villa, but not before the officer threatened "Arkadios Livianus, we will be back but next time we will have the upper hand!"

Arkadios burst into his office where slave #4 was writing his letter "I am finished sire, just now." "Rewrite it! Call the followers to arms! They are to meet at the villa! This will be the bastion of the nation!" "...Yes master." the slave crumpled up the paper while Arkadios continued to curse under his breath and throw things around...

 

[Cidonia]

Josselin Jordanes - II

Josselin finishes yet another day in the kitchen. The strikes he called upon were ignored and only he was striking. The others would boo and curse at him calling him a traitor. So, with time, he simply gave up. Trotting back to the barracks one day he is intercepted by 4 soldiers and an officer. "Mr Jordanes?" the officer asked him "Yes, that's me. What is it?" he replied, trying to keep on walking but a soldier stepped in his way "You are under arrest. Come with us." the officer told him simply. Josselin stared at the officer, spit in his face then ran back where he came only to be tripped by a soldier after two steps. He falls flat on his face and his legs and arms sprawled. He turns around quickly on the ground only to see the butt of a rifle come into contact with his face...

When he awoke he felt cold stone and it was damp. He was feeling a little chilly and noticed he was naked. He was obviously in a cell and there was no air outlet. Only a tiny hole in the middle an air duct directly above and a light hanging from a cable which he could reach if he stood up and grabbed it.. probably an incentive. He looked towards the door and it was metallic and tightly shut. He stood up slowly and knocked on it "Hey... anyone there? What is going on?" the moment he ended his sentence the light in his cell went off and he was surrounded by darkness. Josselin sighed and huddled in a corner and closed his eyes....

 

[Taley]

Talemantine Embassy
New Cidia

Finally the office was complete, though the Embassy was far from finished. Prince Beniamino was going through several papers and documents when a knock at the door.

"Come in." he said not looking up from the file he was reading.

"Your highness." Arnolfo Vizzoni said entering the room.

"So where are we at?

"Well the team will arrive tomorrow."

Beniamino leaned back in his chair. "Good then we can finally get some things done because Hermanson is some person I can't stand."

"Well sir I thought Timotei was a decent guy . ."

"Not Timotei, but his mother. There is something about that woman that doesn't sit right and Timotei has no back bone. He is no leader. I need a drink." Beniamino poured himself a glass of wine. "So where are we with Nazar?"

"Well the general certainly will play ball."

"I hope so. I just got off the phone with Gavallo in Talemaniki. Soon they are going to announce a new aid package."

"So are we going to give him what he wants"

"Yes."

 

[Taley]

Talemantine Chronicle

Government Approves Economic Aid Package to Cidonia

Today Chancellor Bishop Florioli announced a new aid package for Cidonia. "In a effort to help our fellow Himyar nation, the Talemantine Empire will work to assist the growing nation rebuild its homeland."

The aid package several shipments of resources to Cidonia to assist in the nations rebuilding. Many of the resources are varying types of building materials, from steel to lumber, including asphalt to build a stronger infrastructure. The aid package also includes large, heavy construction equipment to speed up the process of rebuilding.

The package also includes contracts for oil shipments to Cidonia to arrest the stress in the nation energy demands while they rebuild. In addition the Emperor approved 40 Billion Lire to the new government to help the nation kick-state the economy.

The Secretariat of War is also said to be in talks to sell military equipment to Cidonia.

​

[OOC: Copy from news as it pertains to the RP]

 

[Cidonia]

Nazar / Hermanson

"General Nazar, the unloading of the aid packages is going according to plan. In a moment Lieutenant Gundisalvus will arrive. Sir." the sergeant saluted Nazar and marched off as Viktor Nazar continued to gaze upon the hoards of aid package crates being driven away quickly. A few moment later Lieutenant Gundisalvus of the Cidonian Secret Intelligence arrived, a department of the army that has already been founded albeit Timotei not knowing of it "Viktor.." Jindrich Gundisalvus saluted slightly, Nazar responded and stretched out his hand. They shook hands smiling, Gundisalvus' smile turning into a frown "My friend, it seems the supreme rulers mother is out for you." Nazar's smile turned into a frown as well, Jasmin, always beside Nazar, kept on looking towards her papers but kept a sharp ear "It seems our bugs in the supreme ruler's quarters were well worth it. His mother is out to get you, she sees you as the only imminent threat and your bonding with Talemantros offend her." Gundisalvus looked to the right and left, then sighed "She is the only threat to the nation, Viktor. We need a ruler, not a puppy dog. Cidonia has always been a country forged from steel and blood. We need to get Timotei out." Viktor's frown remained, he looked away to the plane in front of him then back to Jundrich, he began to smile "He never had the power. Cidonia is ruled by the army... it always has been... it always will be..." Jundrich smiled back "That is the spirit, Viktor. If I hear more news about the witch and her puppet, I will inform you." they both smiled at each other. Viktor looked towards the plane, then back to Jundrich "Listen, if we make a coup we have to be quick. I heard there is a man, Arkadios Livianus or something. Totally batshit insane man trying to turn Cidonia into a republic. We will give him undercover support, make Timotei look like an idiot as the wannabe Caesar goes protesting in the capital. Then the army comes in and saves the day..." Jundrich nodded "So it shall be done." and walked away.

Jasmin interrupted Viktor's gaze towards the planes from Talemantros calmly "Sir, Talemantros officials have informed me that they are also going to aid the nation with 40 Billion Lire and oil contracts. Intelligence division has informed me that the supreme ruler has not yet accepted it formally." Viktor Nazar laughed and extended his right arm, pointing towards the airplanes unloading the aid packages "The nation has accepted it." and smiled as he calmly let his hand sink to his side again. Jasmin smiled, replied "Sir." and slowly walked away signing the necessary documents to accept the aid packages and financial support. Underlined on a list of to-do things is a line called "Trip to coast -- Oil!!" all the while Viktor continued to stare upon the airplanes.


Meanwhile Hermanson was in bed, reading the international news on his uPad that his mother gave to him as a present. He stopped as he read the Talemantros news on an aid package and oil contracts that are being present to Cidonia. He looked up and wondered, speaking softly to himself "Why didn't... anyone tell me?" he sighed and opened Angry Pidgeons and started to play, lightly chuckling.

In another room, his mother was going over the documents presented by the Talemantros embassy concerning the oil contracts and financial aid "Do these ... Talemantroseans think they are better than us?" she asked, a servant in the room was about to say something before Kiki interrupted a possible chance of an answer "Obviously they do!" the servant silently nodded and looked back to the ground "These god damn... fools! We do not need help! We are a proud nation! Cidonia has to isolate itself, we need peace to rebuild. Only Cidonians can bring this nation to glory, not some... IMMIGRANTS!" she screamed and threw a glass towards the fireplace that was silently crackling. "If Timotei accepts these, I will... I will!!" she stopped, looked at the servant, walked around a bit, then sat down. She took the papers and ripped them apart, slowly walked towards the fireplace and threw them in, lighting the fire once again. The servant turned away and walked out, Kiki smiled and watched the fire gently burn...

 

[Cidonia]

Josselin Jordanes - III

A man in a white jacket and a white beard is walking past the cells of the prison inspecting the inmates through the slightly opened windows of the doors, each prisoner on the other end as ordered. He goes by slowly, accompanied by a nurse who makes notes after his every word. "Inmate #245 appears healthy.." he mutters the numbers one by one and carelessly looks at the inmates. A few plea to the doctor to help them, others ask for the doctor to end their misery, but he continues on seemingly deaf to their pleas and plights. He stops at the cell of inmate #412, Josselin Jordanes. He takes a look at his record and sighs. He takes a peak into the cell, Josselin is in a corner whimpering to himself, obviously undernourish and losing hair. The walls are full of feces and so is Josselin. The doctor makes a note on the record on the door of the cell. As he passes by and continues his "check-up" a guard takes a quick glance at the note.

"gone"

 

[Taley]

Cidonia

Severo Amore was a long time agent of the Intelligence Secretariat. Now him and his crew were in Cidonia working for the prince and one of the factions in Cidonia. If his mission was successful the empire would have a solid ally in place in New Cidia. The truck hit a pot hole along the dirt road and the shaking brought Severo from his thoughts. Severo sat in the passenger seat of a troop truck wearing the uniform of the Supreme Leader's guard, that was nicely provided by some of General Nazar's men. Tonight was one of the most important night and would be a significant blow to the leadership of Cidonia.

At the end of the road was a villa built out in the countryside. This was to be the meeting place between Supreme Leader Hermanson and rebel leader Arkadios Livianus to end the rebellion and bring peace in Cidonia. As the truck pulled up to the villa Amore got of the truck and approached Livianus' guards at the front of villa. "The Supreme Leader has sent us to search the villa to make sure it is secure for the meeting."

The guards were rough looking like from another era. Their leader looked over Amore and then nodded in agreement. Livianus' men weren't that smart and didn't ask for his identification papers proving who he was. So he cleared his throat to catch the guards attention and gave him his credentials that were perfectly fabricated by the Secretariat. As the guard looked the papers over Severo whistled to the men in the truck. Six men got out, two carrying duffel bags. He looked back to the guard "Surveillance detection equipment." They just nodded.

The Severo and his crew went through each room in the villa checking for bugs and other listening devices and were flanked by the two guards from the front. "Where is the basement?" the guards led them down a flight of stairs to the basement. They went through the dark room. Severo walked over to a wide area of the room. "Above us is where the meeting will be held?" The two guards nodded in confirmation. Severo looked to his compatriots standing behind the guards. In a swift motion the two men put one hand over the guard's mouth and injected a syringe filled with a clear liquid into their neck. Within a minute the two Livianus guards were unconscious. After they tied up the two men Amore and his men opened the bags filled with explosives and began placing them on the ceiling of the basement under the room where the meeting was to be held. Once they were done they packed up their things tied up the two guards and chained up the doors to the basement. As Amore's crew left and got back into the truck they came on. Severo put the detonator in his pocket and waited. Severo got on his radio. "House is secure. Bring in the Supreme Leader."

 

[Cidonia]

The Circle Closes

"Affirmative, over and out." Nazar answered on the radio and tucked it away. He looked around a little nervous, Jasmin looked at him concerned but assured him "Don't worry, it will be alright... Glorious leader." she winked at him, Viktor smiled. He looked out the window as the convoy of Hermanson moved towards Livianus' residence outside of New Cidia, a remote place, perfect for the entire operation. The infiltrators from Talemantros had done their work and all he had to do was press the button. Surveillance was under way from a good distance and although security measures were tighter at the villa there would be no problems, hopefully.

Earlier...

Hermanson twiddled nervously with his thumbs as the convoy was getting ready to leave to meet Livianus "Mother... what if he attacks me?" he asked and his mother answered his question with a slap up the head "You idiot, you are the Supreme Leader. Do you know how many guards we will have there? Enough to conquer a small nation. Don't worry. We will go in, kill him and all his followers while they are there and get out. It is so remote and his influence is miniscule. We can blame bandits." Timotei nodded nervously and continued to pace the room, constantly thinking of all the things that could go wrong. A soldier entered silently and saluted "Supreme Leader of the nation, the convoy is ready." "Thank you." Timotei replied and the soldier marched off leaving him and his mother alone again.

"Mother I am not sure if I should go. I will stay here. Can you do this for me?" he frantically pulled on his mothers sleeve "Fine you stupid fool! They will all die anyway. Wait here in the meantime, are we understood?" Timotei frantically nodded and walked away and sat down at his desk, sweating heavily and on the verge of tears while his mother storms towards the exit about to enter the convoy...

present...

Nazar continued to observe the convoy disappearing to outside of New Cidia and out towards the villa. New Cidia had turned into a glorious oversized bunker with excellent protection, everything and everyone that goes in or out is closely monitored for the highest security possible. As Nazar saw the convoy disappear he slowly went towards the dining room of the Supreme Leaders palace, the detonator lightly resting in his pocket whilst Jasmin disappeared to go home after a hard day of work "Good night Viktor." she said as she walked away, brushing her hand lightly on his shoulder. He smiled and continued to the dining room of the palace.

The convoy pulled up to the exit of the New Cidian Citadel and the guards meticulously checked each car. A Cidonian Intelligence Agency agent was there feeding the most important information directly to Nazar as soon as possible. He failed to notice that Timotei himself however did not leave the premise until now, as he is in a different car of the convoy. He panicked and quickly wrote Nazar a text message "Big Bird left house, baby bird still at home." and hoped that Nazar would realize in time. He asked the driver "Why isn't the Supreme Leader going?" the driver simply shrugged and endured the thorough inspection by the Cidonian gate guards.

Nazar however had left his cell phone at his desk in his office. Jasmin however was the next in line to be contacted, but the CIA agent neglected this in his panic for not informing General Nazar. Nazar in the meantime began to open a bottle of Talemantran wine after he had ordered some food from the palace cook. He slowly enjoyed it as he looked out the window until he was disturbed "Do you like wine, General Nazar? I for one was never fond of it." Nazar was startled but kept his composure. He slowly turned around and was shocked to see Timotei "Supreme Leader... what are you doing here?" he stared at Hermanson for a moment and then put his glass away. "I couldn't do it... do you know what they will do with Livianus? My mother? It's crazy... I cannot accept it. Have you come to dine with me, General Nazar?" Timotei implored as he slowly sat himself at the modest yet very expensive designer table, made in Cidonia. Viktor simply nodded and slowly moved towards the table, seating himself exactly opposite of Hermanson. An awkard silence persued until Timotei began to chat about the weather and other benign things. Infuriated Viktor listened and gently caressed the detonator.

Meanwhile the convoy was midway towards the Villa and the CIA agent frantically tried to call or text Nazar to no avail. He began to sweat and the driver, informed on the situation and also an agent although the other agent did not know, nodded towards him "Did you forget anyone?" he smiled after he said these words.
The car slowly drifted away from the convoy and towards the side of the road then sped up to surpass the other cars. The convoy totalled 10 cars, full to the brim with soldiers and one only has Timotei's mother Kiki and the last one was a decoy, empty besides the driver.
The car with Nazar's main contact was now in the front and began to leave the road to a bumpy side road which led to the Villa, in the meantime Nazar's agent remembered Jasmin and contacted her.

Jasmin began to let water into the bath and was ready to relax as she heard her work phone ring. She sighed as she went to the living room and picked it up "I'm off duty" are her first words as she picks up the phone "Agent 3, we have a situation. Nazar won't reply to his phone and Baby bird is not in the convoy, only Big Bird..." Jasmin stood there for a moment without saying anything "I'm on it." she answered simply and raced to get her clothes and shoes and get out of her apartment to get to Nazar.

The convoy pulled up to the villa and unloaded the soldiers. Fully equipped the surrounded the premise. Livianus however wished to keep the entire atmosphere more relaxed and had as few guards around as possible. "Miss Hermanson! What a surprise! It is such an honor to have you here! Where is your son?" Livianus bloated out as he greeted Kiki with open arms who simply ignored him "Let's get to business, this is informal." she stormed towards the door of the villa whilst Livianus quickly followed her, adorning her with compliments and trying to calm her. The soldiers in the meantime waited until Kiki was out of sight and began to get back into the cars. They left the motors off, but remained in the cars. The few guards of Livianus' that were there stood at guard, confused but steady.

"Livianus, I will keep myself brief, I am afraid the patience of the government wears thin of your hostility. We will not accept any more slip ups." Kiki began and Livianus began to laugh "Hah! Are you threatening me? What will you do if I tell you we won't give in until we can form our own party? We have rights!" he pointed towards her and smiled. Kiki simply replied "You have nothing. Guards! Kill him!" she screamed and pointed back to Livianus who simply stood perplex in the middle of the entrance area, the moonlight dimly covering his face as Kiki stood in the darkness, completely alone. Noticing that nothing was happening, Kiki looked around and began to panic. "What... I've been had!" the sounds of distant car motors slowly disappearing enraging her even more "How could they! Those pigs! They will all hang!" whilst Livianus watched her bicker endlessly, almost cringing with laughter, his guards as well pointing and laughing.

In the meantime Jasmin arrived at the palace, running up the stairs as fast as she could, she went up to a nearby guard "Where is General Nazar?" she almost screamed at him "Madame, he is in the dining room with the Supreme Leader, the Supreme Leader wished not to be disturb-" Jasmin pushed the guard aside and ran towards the dining room, the guard, aware of his position, simply watched her run away and continued to watch the stars absent-mindedly.

Nazar was sipping on water whilst Timotei was clearly drunk, talking about the two girls he was "banging" the other night as Jasmin stormed in. Nazar and Hermanson look towards her, Nazars eyes open "Jasmin... W-w-what... what is wrong?" he slightly stammers. Jasmin stands at guard and greets the Supreme Leader "Supreme Leader. General Nazar" she salutes "Sir, you forgot your cell phone...It is time." and Jasmin nodded once towards Viktor. He smiled and slowly uncovered the detonator in his pocket and pressed the button. He then stood up and walked towards Timotei. Timotei, perplex and in a slight drunken stupor stared at him as he walked towards him. Nazar continued until he was behind Hermanson's chair "Hail Cidonia!" Nazar screamed as he secured Timotei's head and quickly snapped it, killing him.

"The Supreme Leader is dead..." Jasmin said then turned towards Nazar, saluting him "Long live the Supreme Leader."