IC Secret: The Sum of Tears
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HALLOWED SOCIETY POLITICAL OFFICE HEADQUARTERS, MICHLEAH
25 March, 2025It was a glorious spring day in Michleah, the wind was mild and the city welcomed the sun's warm embrace. After nearly a week of non-stop rain, the reprieve was welcome to all. But while most of the people in Michleah took to walking in the many parks of the city and some having picnics, today was no ordinary day in the inner circle of the Hallowed Society. For them, it has become evident that the Hallowed Democrats were becoming restless and even some were beginning to challenge their rule. As such, they met in Michleigh in the political office's headquarters to discuss their loss in the Estmark elections and their plans to prevent the Democrats from becoming a viable political force in the Sondrede and beyond.
In the room was Alder Alwin, the most influential clergy member of the Hallowed Society. Overthane Edmund, the most prominent member in the Steward's cabinet and the Steward herself. In this small room, they plotted their clawing back of control of Estmark.
Steward Edith spoke to the conference "So, we haven't had one of these meetings in a while. But I think we all know why we are here today. The non-Ostriders are starting to become restless. This was made evident by the results in Estmark a couple weeks ago and now we have had time to let that set in, we need a unified strategy for the Society."
Edmund, one of the ministers in the cabinet spoke in response. "I understand the worry, but its just one election in a rural district respectfully My Steward. And its not a shock at that. Estmark has the highest concentration of non-Ostriders in the country. And given the Hallowed Democrats appeal to that group, its not too surprising."
The Steward gave a unamused smirk. "I know this sounds trivial. But this is how problems happen. They grow from tears of neglect and are fertilized by our unconcern. If we let this go unnoticed, I am willing to bet good money that they might become a vanguard of a liberal resurgence in this country. And while Im willing to bet money on this, I am not willing to bet on our social order. So this must be addressed."
Alwin spoke "What is the Stewards plan then?"
"The crux of our plan is ensuring the new Earl is as hostile to us as possible to claw back at liberal activity there and at home. And I think I know just how to bait the Landrede there into electing just the person we need for the job." The Steward said.
"Your plan is risky." Alwin responded "How can you guarantee this firebrand wont burn you in the process."
The Steward grinned both in admiration for her old friend and the joy of her scheming "Oh, I want him to burn me just enough." she said. "Once I am burnt, only a little, this will unite the folks here at home and distract them from the petty issues which has divided the Society and Party. And in the end, I believe we will cement our power for the foreseeable future."
"I suppose the idea then is getting them burn you in just the right way. Do you think the Democrats will see through your plan?"
"There is already a separatist movement in Estmark. The Democrats are trying to keep them at bay to preserve their reputation." Edmund replied. "I think the Democrats will do everything they can to show restraint."
"I am not so sure Edmund. As I have said non-Ostriders are growing restless. So the Democrats are going to have to show their teeth sooner or later lest they are seen as ineffectual by their base. I think they will give us what we want if we corner them."
Edmund paused for a second in deep thought and then said "I think if we want to get a rise in Estmark, we need to go after the election results. This will make the Democrats look foolish for trying to go through proper channels. And with luck, this will inspire them to pick our candidate"
"Its too late for that. The Landsrede is opening this Friday." Alwin rebutted. "This measure might be too extreme even for the folks back home."
Edith paused for a moment seeming to like Edmunds idea. "I think the Alderrede might be our solution. Alwin, you have a lot of influence with many of the folks there. Is it possible you can get the votes to have an emergency closed hearing to start an investigation into election irregularities? We could perhaps delay the opening the Landrede this way with the support of the Alderrede."
"I am not sure, this is a tall order. Especially since everything was vetted, it might take a lot of pressure doing. Especially if you want your fingerprints off of this." Alwin said with skepticism.
"Do what you can, my old friend. We will improvise as this show goes. Ill get in touch with some other friends to see what they can do to help us. As long as the Alderrede is talking about it, we can delay the opening."
--TO BE CONTINUED--
