Emperor Artabanos's Welcome Back Banquet and Reception

Telum, 16th September 2020

The tables in the Imperial Throne room have all been set. The cutlery is arranged to the minutest detail. The correct aperitifs and dietary requirements have all been honoured. Emperor Artabanos's first major banquet and reception since His unfortunate 'accident' last summer is about to begin.

The Emperor worked closely together with Gert Veruylscht, of the Imperial Household, to arrange a detailed seating plan. After attempting to honour most guests' seating preferences (and deliberately not honouring those of others...) the Emperor and Veruylscht produced the following plan:

[OOC: Please do not arrive just yet, Emperor Artabanos will welcome everyone with a post tomorrow (16th September), after which you are free to RP your arrivals.]

I Will Have Order

Part 1

Telum Capital Defence Command

Headquarters of the Imperial Armed Forces

Strategic Meeting of the Imperial Defence Council
Operation Takedown [IC Secret]

Attendance:

• H.I.M. Emperor Artabanos
  
• Imperial Defence Officer Boris Mancov
  
• By secret video link: North Diessen's Minister for National Defence Ekrem Mueller
  
• Chief of the General Staff Vice Admiral John Bauer
  
• Legate for Terra Domini Air Marshal Hugh Donnell
  

Artabanos: "Gentlemen, welcome. As you will be aware, the Imperial Government has finally received a formal request from the Confederacy of North Diessen for military assistance. Our long months of work have come to fruition. Boris, how is the situation in Reuland?"

Mancov: "The State of Reuland borders the Inimician northeast, but cross-frontier roads and passages are infrequent, the border mostly consists of mountanous terrain. Imperial Guard operatives in Reuland have so far managed to sneak across uncaught, and we have no expectation this will change with the de facto independence of the State. Reuland's State authorities have put the weapons we provided to good use, and as far as we are aware the secessionist government now controls most if not all of the major Reuland cities and military supply points."

Artabanos: "Very well. Admiral Bauer, recap what our actions will be once we offer our help."

Bauer: "As we extensively discussed, Your Imperial Majesty, the Imperial Armed Forces (IAF) will enter North Diessen by rail, air, and road, where they will link with Diessen Defence Force units and co-ordinate with them. We currently have the 1st Mountain Brigade, 1st and 2nd Special Air Squadrons, 2nd Army Corps, as well as the 1st and 2nd Air Mobile Brigades, 3rd Fleet, and 2nd Submarine Squadron to participate, of course backed up by several other corps to remain in the Empire. At the time time, our Special Force Command and the 3rd Special Air Squadron will immediately commence covert operations in Reuland from the Fugit Mountain Assault Command in Terra Dominus. Significant IAF presence will be directed towards the Diessenian capital, Het Goor, and towards major Diessenian Defence Force bases, which I have indicated on the map in front of you."

Mancov: "Just to but in here, Vice Admiral: we are currently talking about the first phase of Operation Takedown, correct?"

Bauer: "Correct. Phase One will see IAF units deployed against the Inimician-armed rebels in Reuland. Ironic, perhaps, but necessary. At the time time, our Logistics Command will gain valuable information about Diessenian Defence Force structures and operations, making these much easier to sever in Phase Two. The 3rd Fleet and 2nd Submarine Squadron will pass through the Caspian Canal and into Diessenian waters, however, progress will be deliberately slow, making it unlikely they will reach all the way to Reuland's shores before the rebels are defeated, according to plan, in just a few days. We are estimating our vessels to be in position off the coast closest to Het Goor, carrying units of the amphibious assault command of the 2nd Imperial Guard brigade."

Artabanos: "So, Phase One to last, what, three days?"

Bauer: "Three to four. We are to meet again here once our objectives have been completed."

Artabanos: "How do we transition from Phase One to Phase Two?"

Bauer: "To most people, it will not be a noticeable change. Our brigades have been extensively trained in covert operations and are expected to apprehend most Diessenian Defence Force units without fighting. Not that there are many DDF units to arrest -- we are likely to outnumber them two-to-one at least. At the same time, the Imperial Guard will make its way under the cover of darkness to the government quarter in Het Goor, apprehending President Inge Pekcan and her confidantes, and installing Mueller into office."

Artabanos: "Ekrem -- objections?"

Mueller: "None. Apologies for whispering, I am the face of anti-Reuland resistance here at home. If caught conspiring, my sentence would be worse than death. How long could we maintain such a, well, covert invasion, from being noticed, Vice Admiral?"

Bauer: "Not for long, which is why Operation Takedown, Phase 2 will take no more than 12 hours. President Pekcan's demise will be put down to infiltration by Reuland's paramilitaries, and the Imperial Guard presence there as a countermeasure. Pekcan is to be 'wounded', and Mueller is to take over as a temporary measure at first. Obviously, in the long term, our other planning will have to take care of that."

Mueller: "Perfect, thank you."

Artabanos: "Follwing the successful conclusion of Operation Takedown, I will award Mueller with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Empire, and make him an Associate Member of the Imperial Defence Council, an Honourary Citizen of the Empire, and allow him a personal Imperial Guard detachment to escort him wherever he goes."

Mancov: "Excellent. We look forward to having you as an ally, Ekrem."

Artabanos: "Gentlemen, perfect. Start time for Phase One of Operation Takedown is 1800 hrs today. Thank you."

Walking from the Situation Room, Artabanos thought "What a way to celebrate the Empire's 10-year anniversary. Adding three new territories to its dominion." His nerves began to rise, and He had a swift drink before exiting the lift and going about His day.

Office of Premier Commissioner Dr Walter Cocx

12th May 2021
RE: Failure of Istkalen Sanction Motion

"Europeans,

Another attempt at a peaceful isolation of a rogue regime in the heart of Europe has failed. By one vote, Councillors decided to let the terror emerging from Istkalen roam free. Representatives of our nations and peoples, whose role in the entire Sanctions process resulted from a major concession on the side of the Sanction Act's sponsors, frustrated its progress for the second time.

Although it is not my responsibility that region-wide sanctions against Istkalen now remain a distant, faint imagination, as Premier Commissioner I must, however, take said responsibility. It is with this in mind that I am announcing today that I will not be standing for re-election to a second term in this office. It has become clear to me that the basis on which the peoples of this Union elected me to this high office, a tough stance against rogue states, is not shared by the political establishment in Europolis. I cannot, in good faith, continue to operate under such circumstances.

The start of my Premiership was, in my opinion, an era of hope. The Sanctioning Act was passed and amended with liberal majorities - a comprehensive process marked by checks and balances from both main European bodies, the Commission and Council, was established. A time of opportunity for this Union beckoned, a time when reasonable, democratic, rule-of-law nations could make a joint fist against destabilising rogue regimes.

Yet, in the first attempt at making such a fist, against the USNR, the Council frustrated the legal process with slanderous and disgraceful fillibuster and introduction of nonce amendments. Conduct which sends a message of carelessness and elitism to the peoples of this Union. While they worry about the impact of a terrorist regime taking over a nuclear-armed state, politicians in Europolis thought it wise to submit 70+ amendments changing single words to a serious Sanction Motion.

Now, Councillors are debating ways in which this same hostile regime can make a re-entry into the European family of nations, an abhorrent, disgusting move which every democratically-minded Councillor should object to no matter what. This move reinforces my belief that I cannot, in good faith, continue to function as your Premier after my turn ends. I hope I can continue to support and lead you in another capacity, as my one true love remains the care for the peoples of Europe. Thank you."

COMMONS ELECTIONS: FINEST WIN PLURALITY, MOVEMENT GAINS -- TRADITIONAL PARTIES SUFFER

Electoral Results Map of Inimicus. Purple: Centre-Conservative Union; Blue: Inimician Liberal Appeal; Pink: Emperor's Finest; Red: People's Movement; Yellow: Central Progressive Party; Green: United Green Front; Grey: Independent.

Telum, 3rd May 2021 -- The Imperial Electoral Commission confirmed the results of the House of Commons election 2021 proceeded according to standards set out in law. Polls closed at 6pm today, following an election predicted to see an earth-shattering victory for the Emperor's Finest, a catch-all party advocating strongly for the Imperial system, and support for Emperor Artabanos. Today's results show exactly how earth-shattering this victory truly is. From no seats won in 2020, the Finest will send 292 members to Telum come June, a staggering 36% of seats.

"The Inimician People have spoken", Finest leader Hetty Tilki announced to roaring crowds in Lacerta after the results were announced, "They have said Yes to the Imperial System. They have said 'I serve' to His Imperial Majesty. And they have said 'Convict Them' to the traitors who sought to destroy Him. Today is a victory for all of Inimicus, and for the Emperor."

Gains were also made by the People's Movement, who nearly doubled their MPs by winning 90 seats. Outspoken critics of the Emperor and the Imperial System, the Movement capitalised on recent controversies surrounding the arrest of members of the Barrington family, and the Imperial Armed Forces raid into Neo-Venetia. Movement leader Adolf Danube called today "a wake-up call for the Emperor and His clique" and announced he would be filing motions in Parliament calling for the impeachment of the Emperor.

Results from the Terra Praestoris Imperial Council by-election are expected shortly, with preliminary results suggesting a narrow yet consistent lead for Finest leader Tilki, who is trailed by Movement leader Danube and other parties. Full results of the Commons vote are given below.

“Is it straight, Gert?”

“Straighter than you are, Your Imperial Majesty.”

“As if that’s a challenge.”

Emperor Artabanos adjusted his black bow-tie one final time, pulled on the bottom of his blazer to flatten it out, sighed heavily, and nodded at his Household representative. Gert truly had been an inspirational organiser for this event, one which would see Inimicus, and Artabanos personally, return to the centre of European politics. He hoped. It could also turn into a fighting and screaming match between Reitzmag and Spain, or between Reitzmag and Menrimiak, or between Reitzmag, and, well, someone else.

Artabanos surveyed the room one final time. Everything was just about to His liking – not that he really cared all that much for the exact arrangement of the Imperial logos on the cutlery and plates. He cared more for the prestige this event might bring Him. The relationships it might forge. The possibilities that awaited. As he stretched to slightly twist a wine glass at the seat of Austrian President Van der Bellen, he felt a shudder of pain down his entire torso. ”Fuck”, He thought. Not tonight. He had been living with this pain for the last three months, and only in the few weeks leading up to today had the sudden bouts of shooting pains subsided. He briefly looked around to see if anyone else was in the room, before grabbing into his chest pocket and swiftly taking a large gulp of spirit from a small flask. He knew He shouldn’t. His doctor had told Him it wouldn’t help. But somehow, it did, and it had done for several months.

He composed Himself and walked towards the entrance, where Gert was already waiting for Him. “Everything in order, Your Imperial Majesty?”

“Immaculate, as expected, Gert. Thank you.”

Just in time, Vicarius Wilfred Cocx and Imperial Consul Lord Christopher Strathclyde show up, the former anxiously looking around and tugging at various parts of his Imperial state suit, the latter walking rather sluggishly, attempting to light a cigar while still keeping a sense of composure.

“Immaculate, gentlemen”, Artabanos said with His familiar sense of irony, “I trust you’ve all been reading up on the family names, functions, and personal histories of all our guests tonight?”

Christopher smiled slyly. Wilfred’s eyes exuded a sense of panic, and he stuttered, “w-well, yes, I –”

Artabanos laughed and turned to Gert. “When can we expect the first guests?”

“Momentarily. I even think… Yes! Here they are, right now!”

[OOC: feel free to RP your arrivals. Have fun!]

Deputy Speaker Matthew Burch, People's Movement Leader Adolf Danube

June 11th, 2021 -- 9.00am

Deputy Speaker Burch Opens Parliament

MB: "Order, order. I formally declare this ninth sitting of the Ninth Parliament of the Empire of Inimicus opened. Our first order of business is an emergency motion submitted by the Hon. Adolf Danube, and seconded by the Hon. Maria Costley. I call the Hon. Adolf Danube."

Sighs can be heard in the chamber. AD rises and proceeds to the lectern.

AD: "Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. Today I rise to move that this Parliament decide on the Empire's national vote for the election of the Premier Commissioner and Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union."

Murmuring. Deputy Speaker Burch is seen conversing with clerks. Emperor's Finest Leader Hetty Tilki rises.

HT: "Mr Deputy Speaker, this motion is clearly illegal. The National Imperial Council decides on the Empire's vote for Commission. Parliament, a largely advisory body, cannot, should not, and will not."

AD: "I invite Hon. Tilki to point me to the article of our Constitution that grants the National Imperial Council this power, Mr Deputy Speaker. Indeed, nowhere is it codified that the Council may decide this crucial issue. We, as representatives of the Inimician People, from across our Empire and its territories, have the full popular prerogative to cast this vote. If anything, the European-wide Elected and Accountable Council Act provides the basis for the purely democratic election of European officials. While it is impractical to organise a direct national vote for Commission in such a short timeframe, we can try our best. Mr Deputy Speaker, I request we move to vote immediately."

Several members are seen standing up and shouting over each other. Deputy Speaker MB calls order.

MB: "Hon. Danube, Hon. Tilki. The Imperial Decree calling us together here states, and I quote, "that this Parliament shall decide upon matters of its own choosing". Whether the outcome of the Hon. Danube's motion is legal or not, I cannot refuse his request outright. Unless there are any other speakers, we will now proceed to a vote on the motion."

Silence. A few moments pass.

MB: "Very well. The question is that this House decide on the Empire's national vote for the election of the Premier Commissioner and Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union. Honourable members, please indicate your preference using the electronic voting device given to you."

A large screen behind the speaker's chair flicks up with red and green dots. 200 members instantly vote Nay, while another 150 or so are an instant Yea. Reds and greens flock in and their number rises equally. Members are seen easerly watching the screen. Anticipation on all faces. Finally, the Deputy Speaker reads out the count.

MB: "Thank you, Honourable members. The result of the division is as follows. The Yeas are three hundred and forty six. The Neas are three hundred and forty four. So the Yeas have it and the motion is agreed to. This House will vote on the election of the Premier and Internal Affairs Commissioners this afternoon."

Parliament Votes Areai and Čikarová for Commission as Legality of Vote Is Questioned

Telum, 13th June 2021 -- In a shock vote, the House of Commons has declared its support for controverial Commission candidates Josephine Areai, from the war-torn nation of Istkalen, and Sofie Čikarová, spearhead of the Party of the European Left. Following a narrowly-accepted motion by People's Movement leader Adolf Danube, which called for MPs to cast a ballot on Inimicus's votes for Commission, Parliament swiftly decided Inimicus's preferences within half an hour.

Surprisingly, the People's Movement, whose party principles place it on the far right of the political spectrum, voted together with the United Green Front, Central Progressive Party, and splinters of the Emperor's Finest and Inimician Liberal Appeal, to give Ms Čikarová a narrow win in the Commons. It is understood Adolf Danube instructed his MPs to vote for Čikarová, who is an incredibly controversial figure in Inimicus, to cause an almost certain contrast between Parliament's choice and the National Imperial Council's, which is due to vote on the Empire's Commission preferences next week.

Similarly, Movement MPs supported Areai, along with large fractions of the Centre-Conservative Union, Inimician Liberal Appeal, and smaller parties. Parliament expressed its support for Areai by just two votes, with virtually all Emperor's Movement MPs preferring Jean-Claude Juncker, despite his opposition to the European Commission (Sanctioning Powers) Act.

During and immediately after the vote, legal experts questioned the legality of Parliament assuming the prerogative to decide on the national Commission vote. "Ultimately, following the Constitution, this power is reserved to the Emperor", explains legal scholar and European Court of Justice Candidate Benjamin Steyn. "He has delegated this power to whatever instrument He feels fit, in this case, the National Imperial Council. The House of Commons was not given such power in the Imperial Decree calling for its convention, and this vote should therefore not have happened."

Jeff Speller, Imperial Councillor, however, claims Parliament was given the right to decide on matters "of its own choosing", and that therefore, this vote stands. Whether the National Imperial Council will hear it, however, is another matter. "If the Council neglects this decision by the directly-elected representatives of the people", Speller explains, "there can no longer be said to be any democracy in Inimicus. The people's rule will have ended."

"Ah, well, you know, Mikaela and I have a group chat going with Jean-Claude and some other folks", Artabanos began, before swiftly realising that His betrayal would possibly be met with His expulsion from the same chat, "So I may or may not have been directly involved with the selection of your nuclear tour guide. Shame, really -- Gustav, you know, of Fremet, used to be an active member too, but he's sort of in hot waters these days. Anyway... No, my only partner at the moment is my Empire, you could say." Artabanos spoke no further on His love life, and He had never done since those fateful days in 2015, when His last relationship ended in literal bloodshed. For some reason, though, the Czech President for Life had a reassuring aura about her -- perhaps it was because He knew that she, like no other, would know how to use secrets and information strategically for political and personal gain.

He did not know why, but spoke further: "You know, after my last relationship ended, I didn't think I'd ever feel able to trust or to love again. You must know how lonely it can get, being at the top... Sometimes, you just wish you could live a normal life. Go to work at 8, come home at 6 to a family, to have friends to spend weekends with. To have someone to rely on at home." He sighed. Perhaps this was why the Diessenar journalist had piqued His interest so. "Ah well, enough from me ranting, Albina, I'm so sorry. Let's continue."

"Thank you", the Emperor said after showing the President for Life around His personal quarters. "There used to be houses outside this window, but I don't particularly like looking at houses, so there's greenery there now." Where the occupants of said houses had been banished to, Artabanos did not know -- and He could not care. If He cared about such things at all, His sanity, and the sanity of the nation with it, would disappear entirely.

"For sure, I fully admit the main barriers to Czech-Inimician co-operation are currently in place in Inimicus. You know what it's like though -- you nearly get assassinated, you need people to blame." Artabanos thought of Augustus Barrington's face after the renegade ex-councillor had been dragged back in front of Artabanos's feet in chains. Did Augustus fire a cruise missile at Artabanos's plane? No. Had he been annoyingly good at what he did? Yes. And that had been offensive enough. "Now that some time has passed, and with the hopefully good press coverage this meeting will get us, I'm confident in saying the Empire will lift all its economic and diplomatic sanctions against Czech Slavia very, very soon. We're ready to do business."

"As you might know, Inimicus is stuffed full of bauxite, uranium, and natural gas. We're always more than keen on exchanging these resources for things we do not produce ourselves. As for Inimician investment in Czech Slavia, of course! I'm sure the Artabanos Foundation would happily start up a Czech Fund in your nation. For other companies, perhaps we could offer some kind of financial incentive to get some cross-border investment going?"

"I do want to ask one thing, and please don't take this the wrong way, but why exactly did you cancel your attendance to the Arty Party when I returned from my rehabilitation in 2020? I would've loved to meet you much sooner than today."

BREAKING: Imperial Council Rejects Commons Choices for Commission, Calls for Consensus Grow

Meeting chambers of the House of Commons (left) and the National Imperial Council

Telum, 18th June 2021 -- National Imperial Councillors have determined Inimicus's votes for European Commission. By a large majority, the NIC chose Jean-Claude Juncker for Premier and Emma Granger for Internal Affairs Commissioner. These preferences completely contradict the choices made by the House of Commons last week, whose members cast their ballots for controversial candidates Josephine Areai and Sofie Čikarová. Given that Areai resigned from the Internal Affairs race not too long ago, the Council did not consider her in its voting sessions today, meaning even the likes of Jeff Speller IC, whose position was to vote as the Commons did, could not cast their vote for her.

Nevertheless, the choice of Čikarová vs. Juncker causes an unprecedented constitutional crisis on the Empire level. The Constitution does not document who, or which body, is mandated to determine the Inimician vote for Commission. Custom has dictated that the National Imperial Council votes on candidates, but a House of Commons motion by People's Movement leader Adolf Danube triggered a vote by MPs, who narrowly backed Areai and Čikarová. "Who holds power in Inimicus?", asks political correspondent Colin Husky, "Parliament or the Council? More importantly, perhaps, what is the function of Parliament if it does not hold any power?"

Preliminary polling conducted for Nuntius Inimici suggests a near 50/50 split in popular opinion: 43% support the Council determining Commission votes, with 42% favouring the Council. Additionally, 66% support a consensual vote, where both the Council and Parliament determine Inimicus's vote together. This consensual option has also been raised by several Imperial Councillors, including Jeff Speller and Imperial heavyweight Basil Lawson. His Imperial Majesty, who naturally possesses the Prerogative to end this crisis, has not spoken out on the issue yet, but is expected to do so in due course.

Consul Strathclyde took a sip of water. So far, this had been the meeting of his dreams: Artabanos wasn't there to add what He would call "wit" into the discussion, or to somehow steer the whole thing to talk of drones, whisky, or Nestor Karaman. The Consul's counterparts were direct, pragmatic, and sensible. He had been able to approach the topic of arms sales confidently yet relatively discreetly. Things were progressing even better than he had anticipated. "Yes, of course, Minister, Inimician companies have only had a fairly limited scope in your nation thus far. As you'll know, we have mainly established chemical industries which naturally have a fairly small consumer base. However, part of my mission here today is to work with you on expanding our interests. The Imperial Government is ready to commit to investments in agriculture, production and sales of luxury products, as well as other potential avenues you may think are suitable. We have the cash, we just need to decide where to spend it."

If Consul Strathclyde had been granted another 20 minutes at the table without Artabanos there, he was sure he would've integrated the Czech and Inimician economies almost to the level of North Diessen's. Sadly, it was not to be, and the Emepror's booming voice could be heard in the corridor before the heads of state barged into the room: "Aw, what a shame you no longer have a court to preside over, Albina. I really think you should try to reinstate this - I'll send you some tips on fancy court language in the group chat with Mikaela and Vistek. It's always fun to be able to slag someone off and make it have legal legitimacy, if you know what I mean."

The leaders sat down at the table and Artabanos looked at the water Strathclyde had requested rather sadly. "So, what seems to be the talk of the day? President Reiserova and I just had the most fabulous walk through Prague. Christopher, you really should have joined us. Anyway, I take it you've mentioned expanding our business interests in Czech Slavia? It will please you all to know, my Czech friends, the Artabanos Foundation and the Imperial Government are ready and willing to commit to opening multiple series of factories, processing plants, luxury goods stores, and even homeware and department stores, under the brand name HomeBanos Stores. Or something else, if you have a better marketing brand that might strike Czech consumers more effectively, of course..." The Emperor looked at Albina.

"Ah, yes, well, you see, President Reiserova, Inimicus has recently become a major player in aircraft and especially unmanned aircraft production. I'm sure you've heard of My good friend Boris Mancov, the Imperial Commissioner for Drone Warfare?" Strathclyde could be seen rolling his eyes and grabbing for the nearest bottle of water at the mention of Mancov's name. "Well, he used to be My Defence Officer, actually, but we all know how that ended. Anyway, his plants are producing so many drones, electronic warfare systems, and even F-35 jets, that we couldn't possibly use all of them. We were hoping to export loads to Telum allies, but then of course I didn't realise that the Duxburian Union is a member of the Telum Treaty and produces pretty much everything in greater and better quantities than we do. So we're looking for other markets."

Strathclyde swiftly took over the Emperor's bargaining plea: "As His Imperial Majesty eloquently described, our offers mainly consist of UAVs - of both reconnaisance-focused and weapons-focused types - as well as highly advanced EW systems which you could mount on ships, planes, wagons, whatever fits Czech interests, and possibly a small supply of Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 combat aircraft. This should make Czech Slavia very well equipped to counter the threats of the 2020s."

The Consul could feel his Czech counterparts would need some time to think about this unexpected offer. He looked to the Emperor, who, to His credit, immediately recognised the conversation had to move on. "Anyway, President Reiserova, about your other requests. President Grimwald is quite the guy, although I haven't really had the pleasure of speaking with him for long -- he was at My Canal Party, of course, where he made a bit of a mess of himself, but these things happen. Perhaps we could set up a chat with the three of us? I'm sure he'd be open to it. I actually don't have his cell, though, so we'd have to go through the official channels. Ugh. I know Mouri-Kudo slightly better - that fiend Augustus Barrington hid from Me in Leagio a few years back, of course - but again, I'm not in constant contact with him. I'd be more than happy to get you guys chatting though. You know how good I am at coupling up others." If only, the Emperor thought, He was as good at coupling up Himself.

"Well, perhaps we should give everyone some time to think about what's been discussed so far?", Artabanos announced, sensing Albina wanted to take this meeting behind closed doors - where, in Artabanos's view, all good meetings took place. He whispered to the President for Life: "I could really do with a drink, Albina." Nodding at Strathclyde: "And I know someone who certainly could."

"Ah, eh, well, you always look radiant, Albína. Truly, always", said Artabanos, feeling slightly caught out. Swiftly, He turned the subject to the environment in which He now found Himself, the quaint streets of Prague and the age-old sights He had read about in so many old books. "I must also congratulate you on the lovely ceremony you organised, actually. Perhaps I could hire your military band sometime, their rendition of the Imperial Anthem was quite something." The Emperor was bemused by the sight of people turning their heads to watch the duo walking casually through Prague; tourists, Czechs, perhaps even some Inimicians were around. In any case, there was nothing Artabanos liked more than being slightly eccentric.

"Gosh, yes, well, we've certainly had an eventful time since we last met, Albína. I have to credit ol' Strathclyde for most of the work on this new Constitution -- it's all way too much faffing around for me, as you'll understand. But yes! Important changes, for sure." The topic of the Emperor's love life was one He would rather not approach, not even with someone like Reiseróva, who He trusted more than most. "I guess uh, I guess we'll see about who crosses My path - if, that is, people cross other people's paths at My age. But anyway, what's new with you? It's been such a while since we caught up, you'll have to tell me all about what's been happening here!"

Artabanos gladly indulged the opportunity for some joint selfies with the President, and by Himself. "I guess we're not waiting for this clock to strike? Probably for the best, we don't want to get mugged or hassled. Not -- not that people would uh, would do that here, of course." Turning back to the direction of the castle, the Emperor could be seen busily texting on His phone, sending the photos just taken to someone the crowds could only guess the identity of. "Anyway, Albína, to answer your question about Mueller -- such a promising lad, but so disappointing, wouldn't you say? -- I really just wanted the pleasure of trying him Myself. It'll be in the Crown Court, you see, I've arranged for that. Nestor -- I mean, President Karaman -- doesn't mind. He's way too busy with... things. I guess."

Meanwhile, Imperial Consul Strathclyde was being led through the intricate corners of Prague Castle. He had heard of the things that went on inside here, and was keen to learn of the intricacies of Czech government, the intrigue of minister to minister, the ways in which President Reiseróva managed to keep this entire web together. A quality which he admired, greatly. "Thank you for your welcome", the Consul said, "I'm of course very keen to get straight down to business, and pleased you have been appropriately briefed on our investments in the Democratic Republic thus far."

The Consul spoke with the general, weird feeling of condescension that was usual to him. Not intended, per se, perhaps simply a result of his extremely business-like and knowledgeable state during meetings such as these. "It's exciting to hear about the benefits Imperial investments have brought to regions in your nation. We hope that, very shortly, they shall start paying off on the Inimician side, too. So far, revenues have been steady, but not fantastically impressive, so I am happy to hear these suggestions of yours to improve them wherever possible."

"Hmm, well, lowering property prices is always an attractive solution, in general - although of course I cannot make robust assurances without His Imperial Majesty's consent. We'll have to return to this once He is present. As for natural gas, we would be extremely happy to provide this to you. Our reserves are, incidentally, nearly at capacity, so we can have juices flowing as soon as we sign a document."

The Consul took a sip of water, which, to his pleasant surprise, was far less hard and contained far less taste than Telum river water. "I suspect you possess just the rare earth minerals we could use, Minister!" Strathclyde chuckled, before ruffling his papers with a short "let's see", looking for his files on mineral deposits. "Ah, here we are. Yes, the Empire would be open to a trade here. Gas for minerals, perhaps? Or would a monetary exchange suit you better?"

"We can further offer you our three main export products: bauxite ore -- very useful for building all manner of things, including warplanes, cars, tinfoil -- uranium ore, which, well, you'll know the use of, and weapons." The slight bemusement on the Czech ministers' faces was exactly the response he had intended. "Yes, the Empire is, by Imperial decision, now open to exporting our full range of arms and armaments to the Democratic Republic, should they be needed. Whatever you could think of, chances are we have it. There are also some... less conventional... devices we would be happy to export. I'm sure His Imperial Majesty shall tell you all about them."

Vicarius Wilfred Cocx and EU Councillor (and Deputy Speaker) Nicholas Benfield strolled through the vast corridors of some gigantic EU building in Europolis. On Benfield's insistence, Cocx had come down to Europolis the night before the EU Leaders' Summit was due to start, as both men went way back in Inimician politics and would not pass up on an opportunity to spend an evening rousing the EU Council's bar staff and gossip like the days of old.

Now, though, Benfield had apparently forgotten where the exact entrance to this summit was located. Cocx, who already felt out of place due to his being "only" second in charge in the Empire (Artabanos was currently in Czech Slavia and, in His words, "couldn't be asked to deal" with several of the leaders who were supposed to be present today), followed Benfield through various corridors and around an infinite number of corners, until eventually the welcome area, outside, came into view.

"Well Nicholas, I hope last night didn't do too much to my general appearance", Cocx said, trying to straighten his tie in a faint window reflection. "At least some familiar faces will be here, I guess. You're probably more familiar with some of them than I am at this point."

"You're fine. We've met hundreds if not thousands of foreign politicians together and have only embarrassed ourselves half the time. I know we didn't set up an agenda as we were supposed to have done last night, we instead used our draft papers for a drunken game of Guess Who? - but that shouldn't spoil the fun today. Just go with the flow."

With that, the Vicarius and Councillor stepped outside, where they were meeted by European staff and the other leaders who had already arrived, and who looked in slight bewilderment to find the Inimicians strolling calmly towards them, rather than arriving in some armoured motorcade.

The Empire of Inimicus votes AGAINST this Amendment.

Nicholas Benfield
Deputy Speaker

Artabanos sipped His water during the speeches by the other leaders, wishing for something stronger. Talk of Straits, fending off Reitzmic and Duchian silliness, and other people using His canal, always made Him thirsty. Nevertheless, a prolonged silence seemed to indicate it was time for Him to respond, and a traditionally curt nod from the Inquistan Archbishop certainly did. He spoke: "Yes, of course, My friends, the Canal was constructed for all of us. The press have left the room, haven't they? Just making sure I don't need to go on with that nonsense about it benefitting the Diessenar Peoples. With all due apologies to Nesto-- I mean, President Karaman, of course. From now on, My friends, military and civilian vessels flying under the colours of any of our nations shall enjoy free and prioritised passage through the Canal, and shall further enjoy maintenance and resupplying opportunities in the many military shipyards that have been build along the canalside.

"If that isn't benefitting the Diessenar Peoples, I wouldn't know what will." The Emperor looked at Nestor Karaman, who confirmed with a short smirk his willingness to throw his entire nation, his entire existence, at Artabanos's feet. "On to the Straits. I understand, Jesús, your intentions to seize as many shorelines as you can, and Inimicus will fully support you in so doing. But, well, last time this happened, and I got involved, I was forced to sack My Defence minister and appoint him to some other post to keep him in My circle. You will understand that the Imperial Navy is reluctant to assist you in the near future. However, all is not lost, and indeed we have My sacked Defence Minister to thank for that.

"You may have noticed...", Artabanos continued, taking another sip of His lukewarm and far too weak water, "...the Empire's recent investments in, and development of, new generations of war kit. I'm talking drones, electronic warfare capacities on small ships, things that could jam Simon Bridges's erotica stash from 1000 miles away, that sort of stuff. We have also -- the press is really gone, right? Good -- we have also managed to develop a tactical nuke we can drop from our most advanced type of drone. So we can assist you, Jesús, without putting any boots on the ground - or on the seashore. Isn't that fancy?

"And this brings Me to the excellent point the Archbishop raised. Indeed, it may be desirable for the Empire to lodge a request with the ENAA for an expansion of its nuclear weapons license. You can never have too many nukes, am I right, Erik? I thought so. But, and this is where the problem lies, I have never won the Inquistan X-factor. Inimicus has never won EuroVoice - which is why it hasn't participated, on My insistence - so applying for an expanded licence, and having it refused, would be worse than not applying for one at all. This is the conundrum we face.

"Finally, I thank Erik for the offers of taking part in various Duxburian-led schemes. It's good to finally see the DU on our side - I still remember when the High Steward wouldn't let My yacht through the Persian a few years back. And then what would have happened at the Canal opening party? In all seriousness, the Empire is all for development of new tech, as I said just a moment ago. We've been actively working on modernising every inch of our armed forces - and I certainly have the receipts to prove it; My poor Chancellor is having to balance so many wonky books these days. We're ready to commit; at any time."

Artabanos hated travelling with Consul Strathclyde. Not only did he suffer from a bad case of body odour, especially when amplified by his nervousness on planes, but he would also not speak a word about things not related to the work at hand. There was no chit-chat to be had with Christopher Strathclyde. No gossip, no "how's the family", no talk of men. The Emperor would have asked anyone else to come with Him, but Strathclyde had insisted.

To be fair to Artabanos's old war horse, Strathclyde was the main architect of the Empire's economic operations in the Democratic Republic, and had been since the restoration of Czech-Inimician diplomatic ties. He knew what he was talking about -- as always, really -- and Artabanos recognised this. Indeed, during the hours-long flight to Prague, Artabanos observed Strathclyde reading over files, making more notes than the Emperor had made in His entire reign, and generally being a very good student. Meanwhile, Artabanos had had to ask the pilots to charge His phone twice during transit, having played way too much of that new, addictive puzzle game.

After landing, the two statesmen were taken to a motorcade for their ride to Prague Castle. "See, Christopher", Artabanos said, "These folks know how to do marketing. We can learn from them." Receiving only a curt 'Hm' in return, the Emperor continued waving and smiling at the crowds, wondering how many had been coerced into standing where they did, and then deciding that this was something He could not care less about, as He had done the same many times in the past. "Do you know what they used to call me here?" No answer. "The Vampire of Telum. Isn't that the most epic nickname? Although sadly I've no idea what the Czech translation of this is. Remind me to ask Albína, would you?"

The cars arrived at Prague Castle, and Artabanos was filled with the excitement that usually accompanied the peculiar mix of statecraft and seeing His friends -- of which He did not have many these days. "Albína, you look absolutely radiant today!", the Emperor exclaimed as the President for Life greeted Him, "And what is that new perfume I smell? You'll have to give me your guy's number. Amazing. Well, you've met Imperial Consul Christopher Strathclyde, albeit briefly. He's grumpy, but he knows his stuff. You'll find him a useful addition to the negotiating table."

Turning to the queue of Czech ministers in front of Him, the Emperor said "Ah, so these are your fine statesmen, I take it? Excellent. Lovely to meet you all, I've heard so much about you." Artabanos made sure to add a particular intonation to His voice whenever He spoke to those lower down the food chain, perhaps to toy with them, perhaps to scare them, or perhaps to give Himself the impression that He could do either of those things. "A walk around the city sounds like an absolutely fabulous idea, Albína. My jet was so cramped, I've barely stood up for the last few hours. What do you say, we leave dusty Strathclyde here to start the workings of whatever it is he needs to do, and enjoy some time downtown?"

Strathclyde seemed perfectly fine with this idea. The Consul stood around awkwardly in his beige suit and blue shirt, files still clutched in his hands. He had managed to return a quiet "thank you" to the offer of drinks, and his rehearsed lines of "I'm so honoured to finally meet you properly" had also managed to leave his lips. But the Consul was here for work - he was one of the most, if not the most, capable negotiators and statesmen in the Empire, and he knew what to do. He was not here for city strolls. "This sounds like a plan, President Reiserova, Your Imperial Majesty", he finally said, "I shall be sure to begin speaking to these fine Ministers immediately."

The Empire of Inimicus remembers the efforts of its own Dr Walter Cocx IC, who, as Premier, was derided and accused of a 'power-grab' through his implementation of the Sanctioning Powers Act. I do not accuse anyone of ill will lightly, but not only is this amendment written with almost admirable unclarity, leaving far too important matters in the hands of far too many court cases and procedures, but the nature of granting the Commission, which is not subject to the same democratic legitimacy and direct national representational standards as we, Councillors are, a veto over us as the Council, is fantastically undesirable.

I do not, however, think this Amendment is completely without hope as Speaker Tilkanas suggests. I look forward to hearing the reasoning behind some of the support this Amendment may gather, and suggestions of possible further amendments.

Nicholas Benfield
Deputy Speaker

Imperial Council Passes Major Constitutional Amendments: A Full Overview

The National Imperial Council meeting room inside the Imperial Palace

Telum, 10th August 2022 -- With a near-unanimous majority, the National Imperial Council has passed a set of Constitutional Amendments proposed by Executive Representative Leader and Imperial Consul Christopher Strathclyde, in conjunction with His Imperial Majesty Emperor Artabanos. As rumours suggested, the Council itself has lost the power to depose the Emperor by double supermajority, with Article XXIV (which set out these procedures) scrapped completely.

Another surprising and potentially inflammatory change was made to Article I (The Empire), which specifies the territories that constitute Inimicus. The phrase "The Empire of Inimicus is inextricably bound to the People and Government of the Confederacy of North Diessen" was added, reportedly to signify "the new and deep partnership" between the two nations.

Article XX (Marital Abdication) was also scrapped. This Article specified that the Emperor shall be deemed to have abdicated if He contracts a marriage without obtaining the consent of the Council. In the summer of 2015, this Article nearly led to a government crisis when Emperor Artabanos signalled His intention to marry despite opposition from the Council. Strathclyde repoted "no institution has the right to prescribe whom one should love, least of all whom the Emperor should love."

The Regency Question, which plagued government when Emperor Artabanos was incapacitated by the Needletail One crash in 2020, has also been resolved. Previously, the Council automatically became the regent, but retained the right to appoint a single person as regent if it so wished. With an amendment to Article XXVI (now XXIV; Regents) the office of Vicarius is officially designated as acting as regent. Since the Vicarius was not hitherto a constitutionally-recognised position, this office was also added to Article XXIX (now XVII; Duties and Members of the National Executive) as part of the National Executive, and to Article XXVI (now XVIII; Legislative Acts).

Given the unpopularity of the House of Commons, the already announced amendment to the regulations calling the Commons together was also followed through. While the lower house was originally mandated to meet "every year" by Article XXXIV (now XXXII; House Duration), this has now been changed to "when called by Imperial Decree", reflecting the regulations agreed upon in June this year.

The final major change is, as reported before, an amendment to the process of electing the National Imperial Council. Thus far, provincial delegates (two from each Terra) were mandated to be elected by popular vote (Article XLI, now XXXIX; The National Imperial Council). From now on, however, the text reads "Provincial delegates shall either be elected by popular vote or elected by the Provincial Assembly of the Province represented." This move is aimed to give Provincial Assemblies, who have complained about a lack of representation in the national government for years, a more direct voice in Telum.

Other minor changes include the scrapping of the phrase "telegraph" in Article X (Privacy of Communication), which Consul Strathclyde termed a "necessary modernisation" of the text. Previously, the article had specified that the privacy of the "telephone and telegraph" shall not be violated. Telegraph communications, which have not existed in Inimicus for several decades, are now no longer covered by this Article. Additionally, the controversial Article XVI (Education Regulations) now prohibits only the teaching of religious beliefs in private schools, rather than the teaching of religious and political beliefs together. Consul Strathclyde explained this change such: "With society becoming more and more connected every day, the prohibition to teach political theory while politics is all around our minors at any point in the day was archaic. We must educate our minors in the handling of political statements the verification of campaign claims."

Jeffrey Speller IC, would-be green soap assassin and the only Councillor to vote against the ratification of the Amendment package, called the proposals "yet another power grab" by the Emperor and His administration. Speller has been a vocal critic of the Emperor ever since His accession in 2014, which Speller has previously called "the greatest calamity in Inimician history".

Nevertheless, Councillors approved of the Amendment package by near-unanimous vote late last night. By Constitution, the Emperor has the right to Decree amendments which then merely need a simple NIC majority to pass. However, as a gesture of goodwill, the Emperor devolved the task of developing these Amendments to Christopher Strathclyde and the NIC itself, and Decreed the passed Amendment package into law this morning.

Public opinion, thus far, is shown to be widely in favour of the newly-enacted changes. The dismissal of the House of Commons as a permanent body was especially welcomed (79% approve, 11% disapprove, 10% don't know/don't care). The most controversial change appears to have been the amendment to elections for the NIC, with only 54% approving of giving Provincial Assemblies the power to elect NIC delegates, with 32% opposing and 16% don't know/don't care.

The newly amended Constitution of the Empire of Inimicus can be read here.

The Empire of Inimicus votes FOR this Motion.

Nicholas Benfield
Deputy Speaker

The Empire of Inimicus votes AGAINST this Amendment.

Nicholas Benfield
Deputy Speaker