Fiction:The Aeoneonatrix Elections

This is the story of the election of the new president of the Aeoneonatrix empire following the death of president Moeg in The Great Deceiver.

=Background=

The Death of President Moeg
President Moeg's Death

President Moeg was killed by Kaz during his attempt at enslaving the Aeoneonatrix during The Great Deceiver.

The Nature of Aeoneonatrix Elections
Aeoneonatrix presidential elections are an extremely long process. The Number of candidates is not set, but is usually between 4 and 7. They are divided into “election periods” each beginning with a debate, continuing with some time for campaigns to perform activities like advertising and holding rallies, continuing from there with a vote, and ending with the results of this vote being announced and the candidate who took last place being eliminated. After this, the process repeats until only one candidate is left.

=Overview=

Candidates
Lingur Wildlight = Lingur Wildlight is the captain of the vengeance, he most important flagship in the fleet of The Aeoneonatrix Empire, and an Aeoneonatrix of high military prestige and talent. Though his military experience qualifies him to run, he does not have any significant political experience. He is running because he believes the protection relationship might be abolished or undermined under all of the other likely candidates. Cabar Starsmoke = Cabar Starsmoke is the Aeoneonatrix Empire's head diplomat and a seasoned and experienced politician. He is notable for his policy on the protection relationship, believing that it should continue to exist, but only at a monetary cost to the clients. Cosic Fatestorm = ... Migeot Braveshield = ... Nowuro Dreamdusk = ...

=Before the Elections=

Introduction
In the Aeoneonatrix Empire, elections are usually held about every 31.5 earth years. However, the president of the Aeoneonatrix Empire, Meog, was recently killed in an invasion of Ku-Rokti. As a result an election must be held early.

The winner, though without absolute power, has the ability to radically shift the direction of the entire empire. He could work to eliminate the protection relationship, and attempt to put in place economic policies that would leave the empire in ruins. It is always important that the right person wins, because if the wrong person does, the Aeoneonatrix, and all of their clients, could be anything from worse off, to doomed.

A discussion on the Vengeance
On the Vengeance, Lingur knocked on the door to Callanni’s quarters.

Lingur - Callanni, are you in there? Callanni - Yes, I'm here. Lingur - Okay. Callanni - What is it? Lingur - I'm considering running in the upcoming presidential elections. Callanni - WHAT? Lingur - Yes. Callanni - Why? Lingur - Do you remember how difficult it was to convince president Moeg to enact the legislation for the protection relationship? I spent years amassing military and political power to get that done. Now, if the wrong person wins the election, that progress will likely be reversed. Callanni - Shouldn't we just act to support the right candidates? Lingur - There might not be a right candidate Callanni. You're surely aware of the massive public distaste for the protection relationship as a whole. Very few people seem to understand the idea that saving billions of lives from the Gargator is more important than our budgetary problems. Callanni - But what if there is? You'll end up acting as a spoiler, and cut their slim chances of winning. Lingur - Name one prominent politician liable to support me. Callanni - Nowuro Dreamdusk might. Lingur - MIGHT being the key word. We don't know his position, he’s never stated it. All of the other likely candidates have said that they at least plan to begin charging for protection, if not getting rid of it entirely. Callanni - True. But here's the thing, you wouldn't have a chance. You'd be going up against career politicians with established electorates. All of these people are either councilors or governors, you have no qualifications. Lingur - I have a small fan-base of my own. Callanni - Yes, but many more people dislike you than like you. And besides, those people respect you as a commander, not a politician. Lingur - Look, Callanni, I need to do this. I could be our clients only hope. Experience has taught us all what happens when a client is cut off. Unless they're powerful enough, they usually die. Lingur - Without our help, the only people not killed by the gargator will be the ones who give in and convert to their religion, the ones who get protection elsewhere, or the one's killed or enslaved by something else. Callanni - But what happens if you win? Where will the Vengeance go? Lingur - I'll fit it with a new captain, and a new science officer if you want to become my science adviser. Callanni - Lingur, I understand your sentiments. But what skills do you have as a politician? How are you going to lead the entire empire? Lingur - I can work it out. It's not as though I have no knowledge of politics. Callanni - You don't have enough. Lingur - Callanni, you know me. Do you think I'd fail my people? Callanni - Not intentionally but... Lingur - Look, if there were another option i'd take it. I agree that I'm not very good at this type of thing, but I might be the best hope the clients have. I can't just throw a billion people to the foolishness of our public. I have to run. Callanni - I... *sigh* I understand. Run if you feel you have to. Lingur - Thank you Callanni.

An infiltrator
Agent Zuckalus was a Tyranny Terpeshoire and her race was the last remaining of the former slaves. The Dominatus had not turned them into biodrones for a simple reason, their natural shapeshifting abilities. Terpeshoire Zuckalus was called into the quarters of Mortrig Malevon for an assignment.

Zuckalus - What do you want me to do, master? Mortrig - My son is with the Aeoneonatrix Empire, I want you to infiltrate their elections, and then await further instructions. Zuckalus - You want me to run? Mortrig - I want you to assimilate the forms and memories of their most popular politician and then run. Zuckalus - ''Yes, master. It shall be done.''

Zuckalus was taken to Ku-Rokti. Once there, she sent a message back to Mortrig.

Zuckalus - ''It seems there is no clear choice for their most popular politician. It's basically a four way split between Cosic Fatestorm, Cabar Starsmoke, Nowuro Dreamdusk, and Migeot Braveshield.'' Mortrig - What are the differences? Zuckalus - Nowuro is a theocrat, Cosic wants to abolish their protection relationship, Cabar wants to charge for it, and Migeot seems to be something of a technocrat. Mortrig - Whoever you want is to your discretion. Zuckalus - ''Yes, master. I think I know which one I can carry to victory.''

Zuckalus soon killed the politician of his choice and took his form and memories.

Zuckalus - So when I win, do I just wreck the place or do you have anything specific in mind? Mortrig - Merely wait for my instruction when you win. Zuckalus - Yes, master.

Applying
Lingur walked into the office where it was necessary to apply for candidacy. As he sat in the waiting room, he saw Cabar Starsmoke walk in and sit down.

Cabar - ''Lingur Wildlight? What are you doing here?'' Lingur - Applying. Cabar - What? Lingur - I'm applying for Candidacy. Cabar - You, a candidate? Lingur - Yes, there is no one else who I'm sure will keep the Protection relationship intact. Cabar - ''Yes but... look, don't get me wrong, I respect you as a commander, and, if elected, will ensure you're in a position where your talents are useful, but... You'll be up against seasoned politicians like myself. You stand no chance.'' Lingur - Perhaps, but it might be the only way to protect my clients from heartless mercenaries such as yourself. Cabar - ''I think you mean OUR clients Lingur. And a heartless mercenary? Seriously? I expect our clients to pay our empire enough that we don't go bankrupt and I'm deemed a heartless mercenary?'' Lingur - Many empires cannot afford to hire us. Are we expected to throw the poor to the Gargator? Cabar - Yes, given that we would else be spending money we do not have. Lingur - ''We have enough of it to spend it, so what if we owe a few trillion sporebucks? That's completely normal for a government.'' Cabar - ''A few trillion? We are 40,000,000,000,000 Sporebucks in debt. We will not pay that off in the foreseeable future. Look, you are a good commander, and your talents will ensure that our clients get their money's worth, but this isn't a battle, this is politics, and you are a newbie here.'' Lingur - I have to try, for their sake. Cabar - And I have to defeat you, for our sake, though I'm sad to say that will not be much of a feat. Lingur - Very well then.

Just then, Lingur's name was called. Lingur's past military experience qualified him for candidacy, and he was accepted. Lingur was now running in the Aeoneonatrix Presidential elections.

The Candidates Announced
The list of candidates was announced in the nightly news:

Migeot Braveshield

Cosic Fatestorm

Nowuro Dreamdusk

Cabar Starsmoke

and Lingur Wildlight

Newscaster 1 - ''Wait, Lingur? What is he doing on there?'' Newscaster 2 - I had this confirmed, yes, he is running. Newscaster 1 - ''Well that's... interesting. Other than that it's basically as expected. Now, the weather.'' =The First Election Period=

Preparation for the First Q&A
Lingur read over the stack of papers again. He was trying as hard as he could to memorize every point and every note, all of which could be vital for his Q&A.

Lingur - Are you sure this will work? Callanni - Yes, it embodies everything my father taught me about politics. Lingur - Right, him... Callanni - His faults were not in his ability to win over a crowd. Lingur - I know, I know. Lingur - So do you think I can do it? Callanni - Yes. Lingur - If you say so, my dear. Callanni - Come here.

Lingur steps closer to Callanni.

Callanni puts her hand on his shoulder.

Callanni - ''You can do it. You have been trained in the techniques of the greatest politician in our history. You can survive this Q&A.'' Lingur - I hope so. Callanni - Look into my eye.

Lingur does so.

Callanni - Do I look unsure? Lingur - No. Callanni - Have I ever lied to you? Lingur - No. Callanni - Good, now go out there, and do this. Lingur - Thank you.

Lingur went out onto the stage.

The First Q&A
Fogeo - Hello ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the first presidential debate. This is your host, Fogeo Knownflame, and we’re here live with the five presidential hopefuls. We’re going to get to the questions but first, some background on our presidential hopefuls.

First off we have Cosic Fatestorm. Cosic is currently a representative on the Council of species, and a notably affluent figure, once the owner of a massive corporation, which Cosic gave to his son so that he could pursue a career in politics. He is notable for his conservative politics and tenancy to vote against welfare policies and tax increases, especially for the rich.

Next we have Migeot Braveshield. The son of two scientists, he intended to join them in the long scientific dynasty that had preceded him. Such hopes ended when his parents were tragically met with disease and death, only weeks before a cure for the illness was found. Migeot says he blamed their deaths on a lack of scientific funding, and went into politics to correct this problem. He is notable for his policies and public statements as a governor leaning in a radically technocratic direction.

After that we have the new up-and-comer Nowuro Dreamdusk. Though long known as the brother of pop sensation Coosha Dreamdusk, he only recently began his career in politics. However, lack of experience does not equal lack of success, as his theocratic politics have been remarkably successful in recent times. He is already the governor of a prominent Aeoneonatrix colony.

Next we have another seasoned politician, Cabar Starsmoke. Appointed head diplomat by President Moeg upon his election, he has long been known for his diplomatic skills. His run was highly anticipated as soon as these elections were announced, and he has not disappointed. In public, he has advocated a pragmatic style of government over more principle-based approaches.

Last but certainly not least is the most surprising Candidate of them all, Lingur Wildlight. The head of the Aeoneonatrix Military and captain of our head flagship, Lingur is a well-respected commander, but no one ever expected to see him in politics.

With all of that out of the way, let’s get the debate underway with our first question.

Interviewer - If elected, what will be your number one priority as president?

Cosic – I will fix this dreadful economy of ours. Unemployment is high and the empire’s debt is even higher. We cannot continue to go on like this. I plan to reduce the government’s stranglehold and stop taxing you good, honest people to death.

Nowuro – I will work to invigorate faith in this country. Our species has been waning in recent years, we have forgotten what we truly are, the servants of the Cleanser. We must prioritize this above all else. It is literally our purpose in life, and we should be working harder to fulfill it.

Lingur – I agree with Nowuro that we should focus on trying to fulfill our purpose in life. In accordance with that goal, and spirit on compassion, I maintain we should stick on our due course, helping to protect the universe from the forces of evil!

Cabar – As moved as I am by these answers, I think the question is malformed. I think it is wrong to focus on a single issue, or primarily on a single issue. The only honest answer I can give is that I intend to make this Empire great, as it should be, in all aspects, not just one.

Migeot – Simple, technology. Technology is the future; it is what separates the big fish in the universe from the small ones. It is the reason that our clients need protection, and the reason that we are fit to protect them. Technology can save lives, and it can improve them. It is the most important thing we can focus on, and it is the only choice for my first priority as president.

Interviewer - What do you plan to do to solve our budgetary concerns, and how will it affect the Empire’s clients?

Cabar – My primary plan is to impose a fee on our client races in exchange for our protection. This is far from the only measure that I will take, but I believe that it addresses the main cause of our problems. I also plan to raise taxes on the wealthy, and increase and impose vice taxes on more questionable activities in which some engage.

Cosic – I also plan to cut the expenses that are imposed by our client program, though I have no explicit plans for a replacement program. Though I will not stop private businesses from offering the services that they please to whom they please, I do not believe that the protection of others is our problem. It’s sad when people die, of course, but we have to draw the line on how many of our people we are willing to let starve for the sake of foreigners.

Migeot – I don’t see the need to protect these empires for years as they work their way up to a point that we can just bring them to. I think it would be better to sell the secrets of our technology to the smaller empires of the area then to use it whilst not allowing them to. By doing this, we will lighten the expenses we have significantly while still providing them what they need, by teaching them to protect themselves rather than protecting them for them.

Nowuro – I believe that the client relationship is important to our very purpose as a species, and do not plan to abolish it. I am open to the idea of reforming it along more manageable lines, however. That said my primary intent is to alter other aspects of the economy to improve our budget.

Lingur – Though it is important to avoid bankruptcy, I think that people who believe we should cease offering help to smaller empires are misguided. I think they may be forgetting how difficult it is to survive in Delcath without help. I do not advocate that we abandon a trillion innocent lives to the Gargator.

Interviewer - Now that the Empire is taking new member races, how do you plan to combat speciesism?

Migeot – Education. I believe that a frank acknowledgement of the various traits of our empire’s member races will show to the public that there is nothing to hate, fear, or unduly discriminate against. I also believe we should promote an attitude of inclusiveness, and learn to consider differences to be what they are, differences, rather than fallaciously conclude anything false from them.

Cosic – I think it is important that we define exactly what we mean by “speciesism.” We must remember that this is not analogous to the differing fur colors that divided us in our past; rather, the differences between our races are important and meaningful. It would be a fool’s errand to teach the public not to take these differences into account. That’s not to say we should discriminate arbitrarily, but I think it is important that we not, in pursuit of equality, pretend that a furry blue biped with one eye and a tail is the same as a winged flying creature with a beak, binocular vision, and a much broader diet.

Lingur – Though I like aspects of Migeot’s approach, I think the most important thing is to encourage empathy. We must remind ourselves that these other beings have their own subjective experiences and viewpoints, and we must encourage ourselves and others to think of this as we act.

Cabar – It seems that all of my opponents are making valid points, and I agree for the most part with everything they have said, though I take issue with the directions in which Cosic could take his approach. Ultimately, I believe that it’s a matter of encouraging a spirit of tolerance; both education and empathy are important ways of doing this, but not the only methods. If we can encourage people to think of differences as something to be embraced, this will help make our empire better.

Nowuro – I think it is important to remember what unites us, common service. Even those races in our empire that were not intended to be the Cleanser’s agents from birth have dedicated themselves to doing so. We must remember that we are a common people with a common master, despite our differences.

Interviewer - Now that the Empire is taking new member races, how do you plan to deal with their cultural and religious differences?

Nowuro – This is really a 2 part question. Cultural differences need to be assessed on a case by case basis, but in general, I believe in doing no harm to the harmless. As for religious differences, however, I do not see any good reason to tolerate them to the fullest. We are the Cleanser’s agents. I really do not care if you believe in your own god or pantheon thereof, but if you refuse to serve the Empire’s master, you are not one of us, plain and simple.

Cabar – If I may be frank, I am disgusted by Nowuro’s response. Religious freedom is a value I hold dear, and I see no sense in preventing diversity. It might be comforting in theory to suppress religious differences, but if we do not like the idea of being unable to practice our religions, we should not prevent others from doing the same. To answer the question directly, I believe that we should be open to these differences. We cannot demand that refugees who escape from other nations obey our customs before we allow them to come here.

Migeot – I too see no reason to disallow tolerance. It is important to permit harmless differences in our community. However, I don’t think anyone asking this question has in mind preventing people from celebrating their birthday with a specific flavor of cake. Rather I believe that the real question behind this is where we draw the line between what is an acceptable difference and what is not, and I think the best general strategy is to ask ourselves the question, “Would we tolerate this from people who were not aliens?” Unless there is some important biological factor to take into account, I don’t see why the answer will usually be different.

Lingur – There’s really not much to add here, I agree with Migeot and Cabar for the most part. I think that Nowuro is forgetting that if the Cleanser wanted us to prevent others from practicing their religions, he would say so. So far, he is yet to request that we forbid any religion, so until he does, we should assume a harmless thing should be allowed.

Cosic - I am shocked that no one has brought up the primary concern that should be on all of our minds, namely what do we risk by allowing other cultures, and other religions, to exist here? The answer is that ours could be eliminated. If we allow people to preach their religions here, we will see people refuse to be the servants to the Cleanser that we are all meant to be.

Interviewer - What is your opinion on Ameius?

Cabar – I see him as a valuable asset. If you mean to ask if I think he is intrinsically or irredeemably evil, I do not. I see little reason why he cannot help us. I do think that there are issues with him to be worked out, but overall, I see no reason that it should be impossible. However, I would advocate putting off his use in battle until we can be more confident that this has happened.

Lingur – I have every confidence in his ability to choose the side of good. He may have urges and instincts to struggle with, but I see little reason why he cannot overcome them, especially with time and practice.

Cosic – Of course I want to use him. I honestly see no reason why we shouldn’t. I think that it is trite to complain that he has on occasion killed surrendering mardor. While this should be minimized, I believe his usefulness is too great to worry about the lives of enemies. Of course we should train him further, but he is too great of an asset to put off his use.

Migeot – I too believe that he is too useful to waste, but I think it is foolish to pretend he is only a Military asset. His intelligence should also be put to use, in fact that may be more important than his usefulness on the battlefield. As a scientist, he should be able to make breakthroughs that can do more to help us defeat the tyranny, and all of our other enemies, than he ever would if he were nothing more than a soldier.

Nowuro – I agree that he is useful, but I think we need to consider the cost of that usefulness. If he demonstrates the inability to avoid being a war criminal, we should correct that before sending him out. I agree that scientific work is important in the meantime, and see no reason not to use him as a Scientist.

Interviewer - What is your strategy for dealing with the war against the Dominatus?

Cabar – Well, my main plan is not to interfere with the military talents we have in our side. I do not delude myself into thinking I am more competent than Lingur or Owler on this issue. That said, I do not plan to back down, as it is clear to me, as it is to all, that that the Dominatus will not.

Lingur – While I prefer not to broadcast military strategy on public television, I will say that I believe that the keys here are knowledge and teamwork. We have seen for ourselves that the Dominatus are not unbeatable; indeed, I have killed one with my own hands. I believe that the key is the exploitation of the Dominatus’ greatest weaknesses. If we can hit them where it hurts the most, it won’t matter that we cannot hit them as hard.

Cosic – I generally agree with Cabar on this issue. I also believe that we should increase spending to the military. As of now, this war should be an important priority for all of us.

Migeot – I believe that it is important that we enlist help in this matter. We are not capable of besting the tyranny, but there are those who can. I have in mind the larger empires, of the universe, The Draconis Imperium, for instance. Weaponry and technology are decisive in war, and we should enlist the help of those who have it.

Nowuro – I agree that we should allow talented military commanders to do the thinking here, I really don’t see much more to be said, I agree with Lingur and Cabar for the most part.

Interviewer - How will you deal with the problems presented by extragalactic colonies?

Lingur – *Pauses, trying to think of a response,* By encouraging a sense of unity between the various parts of our empire, for one. In addition, I think research should be directed towards faster space travel, so as to allow easier transit between these colonies and us.

Cabar – Indeed those are good ideas. In addition, I think it is important to establish importance in other galaxies as we begin to colonize. We should also work to ensure that the extra-galactic colonies never begin to feel like they are a separate entity.

Migeot – I will deal with them with development. We will focus on better space travel to decrease the distance between our colonies. Wormhole or not, it still takes too long to get to them, and we should work to make this time less and less.

Nowuro – All of my opponents make good points, but I think it is important to remember our greatest source of unity, our common master. This is the thing that unites us. This is the reason we are all allies. In regards to better space travel, of course we want to develop better space travel, but we will never stop the galaxies from being meaningful dividing lines between the territories of this empire.

Cosic – Well the faster than light thing is obvious, but I don’t see why we need to put much effort into it, I think that the free market already has enough incentive to develop better technologies of all useful sorts. In regards to preventing rebellion, it is a matter of ensuring that the colonies always know that such efforts are pointless, because they are free, and futile, because we are strong.

Interviewer - Why should we vote for you?

Lingur – You should vote for me because I am the one who will ensure that our empire is always what it should be, a force for good in the universe. Whilst others bring us means of varying sorts, I bring you the end we are to work toward, a status as preservers of life in Delcath, and as time goes on, the universe.

Cosic – You should vote for me because it is in your interest. I will put into place policies that will bring about your good. I will aid the free market, shrink the government, and prevent us from becoming bankrupt.

Nowuro – You should vote for me because I will bring us to do the will of our master. A vote for me is a vote for him. To vote against me is to vote against him. I will bring us all back to the light of our mission, and our purpose, service to the cleanser. That is how it should be, and how it will be.

Cabar – You should vote for me because I am the best for the job. I know what will make your lives better, and I have no agenda but you. I am not after some renewal of faith, or out to make the rich richer and the poor poorer, or to pursue a pet issue born from personal trauma, or to put the interests of other nations before the citizens I lead. I am here for you, to help you. I care about you, and want to see you prosper.

Migeot – You should vote for me because I have a reason to care about you all. I have seen tragedy, and know how it could have been prevented. I am not just, as my opponent to rudely implied, another politician with a pet issue. I am someone who has seen the horror of innocent death, and desires that no one else ever have to face it. I am not just another politician, in a way, I am like a friend. I am here to look out for you, *sheds a tear,* and all I need to do so is your vote.

The crowd went wild.

Hanging Out Backstage
After the debate, the candidates went backstage. Migeot was leaning against the wall. Nowuro approached him.

Nowuro - You did pretty good out there.

Migeot - Thanks.

Cabar walked up to them.

Cabar - Indeed, those were some of the most convincing crocodile tears I've yet seen.

Migeot - Are you accusing me of insincerity?

Cabar - Yes, that is a very good word for it actually.

Migeot - Did you consider that maybe you bringing to mind my parents' death made me shed that tear, or maybe I simply care about the Empire?

Cabar - No...

Migeot - Then shut up.

Cabar - Look, I have been in politics long enough to know that we can all cry on cue--

Migeot - True, but you've never had your parents die preventable deaths. Now go away.

Cabar - *Sigh* Fine.

Cabar walked away.

Lingur - How did I do?

Callanni - Okay. You didn't say anything so horrendous we can't work around it.

Lingur - Alright...

Callanni - Don't worry, we can handle this. Remember, I was trained by the most successful politician in our history.

Just as she said that, Cosic was walking by on the way to the taxi which would take him to his private airship.

Reporting to Mortrig
Zuckalus - I just finished up the first of the four presidential debates. I have this election in the bag.

Mortrig - Excellent.

Zuckalus - By the way, two of the questions were about us.

Mortrig - Continue.

Zuckalus - "What is your strategy for dealing with the war against the Dominatus?" and "What is your opinion on Ameius?"

Mortrig - Your response?

Zuckalus - Heh, it was in character. I actually must apologize for choosing a politician that required me to give sensible advice. Then again, it won't matter once they are crushed under your feet.

Mortrig - Aye.

Zuckalus - I almost feel sorry for the weaklings. Almost. Ultimately, such so easily manipulated and pathetic things deserve dominion even more than most non-dominatus.

Mortrig - What are your chances of success?

Zuckalus - From what I see, there is only one that poses a significant threat, and he will soon meet an untimely end at my hands. Given that, I'd say it's more than 95%.

Mortrig - Who would that be?

Zuckalus - Heh, it's...

Campaign Ads
Lingur got up in the morning, it had been a few days since the debate, the campaign ads were starting to come out. Lingur decided to look throughout Ku-Rokti's internet to see what had been put out.

The first add he saw was one of Cabar's.

"We live in a difficult time," the narrator began, "a time of war, and a time of great change, both for the better and the worse. In such times, we need a leader. We need a leader who knows and wants what is best for this nation. Cabar Starsmoke is that leader."

It went on to make a series of generic positive statements about Cabar.

The next one was one of his own. He watched it. He had not appeared in it of course. The ad was primarily the result of the combined effort of Callanni and the campaign director he had managed to enlist. It was of high quality, and focused mostly on his ability to wage effective war against the Dominatus.

The next one was from Nowuro. It was exactly what one would expect, being primarily a religious appeal.

The next ad was by Migeot. "Technology is amazing," Migeot's own voice began, "Think about it, we live in a world where it is possible to leave the orbit of our planet and hop between the Stars. What was once science fiction has, in our own lifetimes, become reality due to this miracle." He went on to describe in great detail how the quality of life throughout the universe has tended to be proportional to the available technology, and present himself as the candidate corresponding to this.

Lingur watched several other ads, he noticed that not very many of them were negative, and those that were either targeted Cosic for his far right ideas, or towards Migeot with the criticism being that he is basing his ideas on his emotions.

The final ad, though, was made by Cosic. "Do you remember the horrors of Gusian communism?" Cosic's own voice began. "I do. But what if I told you that there was a significant chance of them coming back? You'd think I'm crazy, but this year, one of our own candidates has significant influences from this very regime."

"He wouldn't..." Lingur thought.

The ad continued. "Callanni Candleflame, one of Lingur Wildlight's chief political advisers shares ties to that same regime. She herself was the daughter of Gusia Candleflame, and her directions on how to conduct himself in public manifest in Lingur's resemblance to Gusia..." At this point it was juxtaposing footage of Lingur's mannerisms with footage of Gusia's.

Lingur closed the browser in anger.

Discussion Between Lingur and Callanni
Later that day, Lingur and Callanni went to the local spa for a date, now that they were becoming a couple. The best place there, at least in Lingur's opinion, was actually the hot tub, more so than any of the treatments. They got in.

Lingur - Have you seen it?

Callanni - Yes...

Lingur - Can you believe it?

Callanni - Yes. We didn't anticipate it as well as we did Cabar and Migeot's actions, but it made perfect sense in retrospect. People have been comparing things they don't like to my father since he took power, and especially now that people can pretend that the things they don't like actually were practiced, endorsed or otherwise believed by my father.

Lingur - Still, do we need to do anything about it?

Gondoo approached with the drinks they had ordered.

Gondoo - Here you go, sir.

He handed the drink to Lingur.

Lingur - Thank you.

Gondoo stood there for a second, then smiled.

Gondoo - And here you go mam.

Callanni - Thank you very much.

Gondoo walked away. He seemed to be in an especially cheery mood.

Lingur - Anyways, do we need to counter this in some way?

Callanni - Yes, and we plan to.

Lingur - How?

Callanni - It's a simple matter of reminding others of my history. If I didn't care about democracy, I'd be in the same maximum security cell as my brother right now.

Lingur - Of course. Tell me, if you were to rate my chances of success, what would they be?

Callanni - You're 4th place in the polls right now, but I foresee your rank going up as we keep pushing the tyranny angle. Cabar and Migeot are your biggest threats right now.

Lingur - So... percentage chance of victory?

Callanni - Well if we act as planned, I'd say you have a 65% chance of making it past this, but only a 12-15% chance of winning the election.

Lingur - That low?

Callanni - As of now, yes. We plan to try to take out Nowuro in this round.

Lingur - Why not Cosic? Isn't he the easiest target?

Callanni - That's just it, he's the easiest target. We want him to stay in because once he's gone. The remaining candidates will default to attacking you.

Lingur - What about Migeot?

Callanni - Migeot is hardy. He can take a lot of criticism because he is very good at appealing to the emotions of crowds. People are attacking him because he is a threat, and Cabar especially is because Migeot is the only one he perceives as a threat to him, but Migeot can easily absorb that damage.

Lingur - I see. You know, this is not really appropriate discussion for a date.

Callanni - I suppose.

Lingur - ...

Callanni - ...

Lingur - So have you read the new Sirethos novel?

Callanni - Actually yes...

Migeot and His Family
That night, Migeot got home from his campaigning tour.

His two children ran up to him.

"Daddy!" His son Karrar shouted as he ran up to and hugged Migeot's leg.

Migeot knelled down and patted him on the head, "Hello Karrar."

His daughter Thitle jumped into Migeot's arms, almost knocking him backward.

Migeot laughed, "Shouldn’t you be in bed?"

"Mommy said we could stay up until you got home," Thitle said.

"Well then, you'd better get off to bed," Migeot said.

"Okay," the children said in unison, and ran off.

Pushele, Migeot's wife, came in.

"How are things going?" she asked.

"Pretty well," Migeot said, "the main threat at the moment is Cabar, the other three should be easy to beat."

"That's good," Pushele said, "Do you want to watch any TV with me tonight?"

"Not tonight," Migeot said, "I'm rather tired. I have less on my table tomorrow though."

"Alright then," Pushele said, "I suppose you're going straight to bed then?"

"Pretty much," Migeot said, "Are you coming with?"

"No, I have a thing or two to do for work," Pushele said, "I'll come to bed in about an hour."

"Alright," Migeot said, and went off to bed.

A Gaffe
Fogeo - Good evening ladies and gentlemen, this is Channel 8 News with Fogeo Knownflame. Our top story tonight, footage has been released containing shocking statements from presidential hopeful Cosic Fatestorm. It was taken from private conversations he had in the hot tub on his private airship. Here are some of the more shocking statements.

The Newscast cuts to blurry footage with a poor sound quality, in which Cosic is sitting in a gold-plated hot tub with his friends.

Cosic - Look, here's the deal with the birds, we don't have the money to give them all what they've been given. It's the bottom line. We can't give them free houses just so they can come here and shit on our statues, not read, not speak our language, and as consequence contribute nothing of value to society. Now I'm not saying we ship 'em straight back to the dommies, but I am saying we ship 'em out pending literacy and maybe a habit of regular bathing, given what they smell like.

Fogeo - And here's another clip.

Cosic - Look, they've gotten it into their heads that they deserve special treatment because of their past as slaves. I don't think they do, but they seem to think they do, which is why none of them are actually looking for jobs. It's out of self-pity, and I just have to ask myself, how hard could spa work possibly be?

Fogeo - Here to speak with us about those clips are our political analyst Foetia Fatehowler, and one of our staffers Karat Honorstar, who is himself a Dorgitassi. I'm sorry to go right past you Foetia but I'm actually more curious, Karat, what's your take on this?

Karat - Well, the worst part really is "How hard could spa work possibly be?" It shows a certain lack of empathy that is staggering. I worked day-in day-out, the only breaks were meal breaks and the insufficient amount of sleep they let me have in an area smaller then a couch. And by the way, shipping around drink glasses big enough for a 10 meter monstrosity and doing so in the hot sun is backbreaking work, as is cleaning the giant hot tub. On top of that, he suggests that we're not hard workers, when, as anyone here can testify, It took a while for me to understand the concept of an off-day.

Fogeo - That's right, *turns to camera* Karat is actually the hardest worker here. He also does bathe.

Karat and Foetia laugh.

Fogeo - So, Foetia, what do you think of this? How will this effect his chances of winning the election?

Foetia - Well, I think it's like Karat said, it's him displaying a lack of empathy. The problem is not going to be losing the Dorgitassi vote. there are few enough of them that he can afford that. The people that he can't afford to lose, who he is losing, are basically anyone who has any empathy for them. I think that the people from that group are now going to vote elsewhere.

Fogeo - Right right. Now Karat said that the worst remark for him was "how hard can spa work actually be?" do you concur that that will be the worst for him or is there another one that will be more damaging?

Foetia - Well I think that the most offensive to a Dorgitassi isn't the same as the most damaging, but I think that the one that'll do him to most harm in the long run is "just so they can come here and shit on our statues" because that is... that is offensive on a much higher level in a way that is fully comprehensible to everyone.

Fogeo - Alright then, we'll be back with more after the break.

The First Results
Lingur, Callanni, Awesh, and Gondoo gathered in Lingur's house to watch the news of the elections. The voting had occurred, and it was time to see who had been the first one eliminated. The News came on.

Fogeo - Well, ladies and gentlemen, we have a very special night tonight. It's time to announce the first elimination from the Aeoneonatrix elections. Now, we will recount each candidate, starting with first place and ending with last. Remember that last place is eliminated. So then, let is begin.

The four viewers in Lingur's home were all feeling the suspense, it was so think that Gondoo could have gone at it with his talons.

Fogeo - The first place winner is...

The newscaster was deliberately pausing as often as possible to build suspense.

Fogeo - Migeot Braveshield He will be a candidate in the second election period.

Callanni - I expected that.

Fogeo - Now then, our second place winner lost to him by only a few votes. And that would be... Cabar Starsmoke.

Lingur - So he's moving on.

Callanni - Yes, they were the two big players here.

Fogeo - Alright then, so, the third place winner is... going to be revealed after this commercial break.

Callanni - FUCK YOU!

Lingur - Calm down. Now, has this new information changed my odds?

Callanni - Well... technically knowing that two candidates who aren't you have made it does decrease them but... we already expected them to take the top two places, so not much.

Gondoo - This is all so... weird for me. I never thought I'd have the privilege of being ruled by an elected leader.

Lingur - You deserve it Gondoo.

The newscast returns.

Fogeo - Alright then... so, the third place candidate is... Lingur Wildlight.

Everyone in the room jumped up in celebration.

Lingur - YES!

Callanni - WE DID IT!

After a second, they all sat back down to see who was eliminated.

Fogeo - And... The final safe member of our group of candidates is... Nowuro Dreamdusk, meaning that Cosic Fatestorm has been eliminated from this election.

Gondoo - YES! HE'S GONE!

Callanni - This is actually to our strategic detriment...

Gondoo - But do you know what this proves, this proves that the public really does care about my species, so much so that they will decide their vote based on speciesist statements made about us?

Awesh - True.

Gondoo - Either way, he was a loon. It's good to learn that he is not going to run this empire.

Callanni - I suppose.

Awesh - Plus he was a complete jackass, I mean; he tried to win by attacking Callanni's family roots.

Callanni - True.

Callanni - Oh well, I suppose we will be staying roughly on our current course. We'll try to get rid of one of the two major players this round, then the other in round three.

Lingur - Alright then, perhaps I should ready for the next Q&A.

Another Report to Mortrig
Agent Zuckalus got out her communicator to contact Mortrig.

Zuckalus - I made it past round one. Mortrig - ''Very good. Who else did?'' Zuckalus - ''The remaining pool is Lingur, Migeot, Cabar and Nowuro. Cosic Fatestorm was eliminated.'' Mortrig - Tell me more about the non lingur candidates. Zuckalus - ''Well, Migeot is a technocrat. He believes that advancing technology will solve all of his empire's problems, and it would, were we not to get to their empire first. Cabar is a diplomat and a pragmatic centrist. He advocates reasonableness on all levels, unfortunately for him, biodrones cannot reason. Nowuro is a theocrat. He advocates largely for providing social incentives for their rite of dedication. By the way, about the Cleanser, there is something you should kno--''

The connection broke.

Mortrig - Zuckalus, report.

There is no response.

Mortrig wonders what entity was able to disable the transmission and ponders. Mortrig decides to send a physical carrier to Zuckalus in order to get the message in a way that cannot be intercepted. He gets back this message.

"The Cleanser..."

The carrier informs him that Zuckalus then shooed him away because another member of his politician's house was coming out and he needed to maintain cover. Mortrig ponders on what exactly the Cleanser is but dismisses it as an Aeoneonatrix myth.

=The Second Election Period=

Taesorack Candleflame
Callanni drove up to the maximum security facility on the outskirts of the Aeoneonatrix Empire's capitol city. She realized that now might not be the best time to be seen here doing what she was about to do, but Cosic was out of the election, and no one left was quite that unreasonable, probably not even Nowuro. She stopped in front of a booth with a guard in it.

"State your name and business," the guard said, sounding as though he was bored.

"Callanni Candleflame," Callanni said, "I'm here to visit by brother, Taesorack Candleflame."

"Go on," the guard said, again sounding uninterested. The guard opened a gate, allowing Callanni to drive through and enter the facility.

Callanni found a parking space, it wasn't hard, there were not very many people here who ever needed to drive home, and got out of her car. She entered the facility, and repeated the same exchange she had had with the guard with the person manning the small desk. Not many people visited the prisoners here.

This time, she was led by another staffer down a hallway to the visiting area corresponding to her brother's cell. It was a small room, separated from his actual cell by thick a wall of plasma proof glass. There was a microphone and a speaker on each side. Taesorack got up when he noticed Callanni coming in. He turned on his speaker and microphone. She did the same on her side.

"Hello, Taesorack," she said. There was a slight feedback as the sound bounced off of the grey, dull walls of the drab cell and and into the microphone on Taesorack's side.

"Hello, Callanni," Teasorack said, seeming depressed and defeated, the way he had felt for the past thirty years, "How are things going on the outside?"

"Rather well," Callanni said, "Lingur got past the first round. Cosic was eliminated, having lost much of the vote due to speciesist statements on the Dorgitassi."

"Dorgitassi?" Taesorack asked.

"The Empire's new member race." Callanni said.

"We took in a race of aliens?" Taesorack asked, seeming surprised.

"Yes, months ago, did no one tell you?"

"No one tells me anything. You're the only one who visits me here, and the guards never bother to tell me anything."

"Of course. I do recall first contact came as a surprise to you too."

"Callanni, why won't they kill me?" Taesorack said, changing the subject.

"Because we are not like that, we do not kill a person unless we must."

"So you prefer to keep me alive in here, as I spend my life wasting away in a cell with nothing to live for?"

"That's why I come here as often as I can."

"I know, and I am grateful, but your occasional visits are not enough to make my life worth living. I wish you would campaign for my execution, it would be merciful for me."

"Perhaps. There really is nothing I can do."

"I spend my days in this cell Callanni, day in and day out, having nothing to do but think about who I am and what I've done. For twelve tormenting hours I must be awake, bored, and alone with my regrets. Only at night is there mercy for me, when I may dream of a time, long ago, when I was part of the grand Union of Eneki, when I led armies to defeat the greed and evil of our enemies. But then, every morning, when I awake out of that wondrous dream, I must return here, to this cell, and be reminded that I am but a relic of a bygone day, that my enemies captured me long ago, and that they sentenced me to a life not worth living. Even as I hear you tell of the changes occurring outside, I have nothing to do but know that the world has moved on past me, and that I am alive only because of a matter of standard policy. It is not life, Callanni, it is existence. I am sick of it. The world has gotten over me, and it's time that they let me go, and leave this tormenting state of inner-death, in which I have only you to remind me that there even is a world outside, and that to it, I am a memory. There is nothing left for me in this universe Callanni, nothing but boredom, staring at a grey wall, waiting for the sweet grip of death to take me in its compassionate hand and end my suffering."

"There is nothing I can do, Taesorack," Callanni said, "you might be able to cope better if you took the rite of dedication, that would at least give you someone to talk to."

"Sell my soul? No, I shall do no such thing, not even in this state. I shall not pass from this world as a talking tool of the Cleanser."

"Well then, as I said, there is nothing I can do."

"By the way, Callanni, I assume you are teaching Lingur our father's methods?"

"Yes, I am. It seems to be both helping and hurting him, given how hated our father was."

"As I would expect from these. Unfortunately, the injustices which have defeated me shall continue regardless of the results. I do hope, though, that Nowuro does not force me to sell my soul."

"As you said, he has nothing to threaten you with."

"True."

The two continued to converse for about another hour before Callanni had to leave to attend to her duties.

Cabar's Deal
Cabar walked into a night club, "The Intoxicated Avian," and headed for the back. As he walked through the main room, he was unfortunate enough to hear the aggressively vapid abominations unto the ear which a certain Coosha Dreamdusk dared to call music. He hurried for the back room, and was able to get there rather quickly. He opened the door.

He had received an E-mail promising him victory in the election should he come here at this time. He planned to reject the offer if it was illegal, but decided to come in case it wasn't.

In a dimly-lit backroom, sitting rather casually in the couch at the back of the room was what was seemingly an Aeoneonatrix, was resting his feet on a coffee table.

Cabar - Hello, are you the one who I was asked to come meet here?

Closing the door behind him was another, rather strong -looking Aeon who glared at Cabar Stormsmoke.

??? - That depends. Cabar Stormsmoke, right?

Cabar - Yes, I am.

??? - Then you can call me five-one-seven.

Cabar - Okay...

517 - I represent a...group of people who are very interested in seeing you win these little elections.

Cabar - That is interesting, why?

517 leaned forward.

517 - Because to us, you are one of the best candidates. Lingur's a wide-eyed idealist with little experience in politics, Migeot needs to learn techonlogy and society need to advance in union and Nowuro wants a solid theocracy. my benefactors are wary of theocracies especially ones regarding the Cleanser. Not that the Cleanser is a bad person. We jut think Nowuro is being a little heavy-handed.

Cabar - I agree. So then, what are you proposing?

517 - My benefactors would like to back your election campaign. Privately, mind you. The people I work for, they can provide you with information on the candidates.

Cabar - Is that so? Well then, do you want anything in return?

517 - Well...What are your thoughts on the Draconid Imperium.

Cabar - I admire them. I don't like all of their policies, I wish their institution of slavery were directed toward a long term goal of full integration, but overall, I admire them.

517 - Well, If you were to say...have the Empire accept the Imperium's policy of Pax Draconica. Imagine how many problems you could solve; the Mardor, the Tyranny, the budget problems, the Imperium could help.

Cabar - Oh, I would love to accept such an offer, I have a few small concerns, but even unaddressed they do not cancel the benefits.

517 - I know people argue that it "restricts liberty", but in truth everyone below your position won't be any more restricted than they are now. If you win these elections with our help, I'll put in a good word. My influence can go a long way to their government accepting your request.

Cabar - Alright then, that's a deal.

517 held out his hand to be shaken, a smile forming on his face. Cabar shook his hand.

517 - Pleasure doing business. I'll send emails to you with whatever we find out about your opponents.

Cabar - Alright.

517 - And media slander? We'll see if we can cover that too. The election is in safe hands...that is, your hands.

Cabar - Thank you.

517 - I think we're done here. Oh and... Have a free juice drink.

Cabar takes the juice drink and enjoys it.

517 - Ta-ta.

Cabar walks out, once again enduring the agonizing perversion of music that he had briefly escaped.

Once Cabar left, he pulled a smartphone from his pocket and pressed a few buttons. Smiling as a very bizarre silhouette appeared on the screen.

517 - Cabar's loyalty has been secured. Sir.

??? - Is this channel secure?

517 - Amongst these aliens? Pfft, child's play.

??? - Don't get confident 517. Keep me updated as the situation progresses.

517 - I will sir. Will keep Cabar under observation. 517. Out.

Preparation for the Second Q&A
Callanni was backstage with Lingur preparing for the second Q&A.

Callanni - ''Alright, so this time there will only be four questions which are directed at all of the candidates, with the rest being directed at specific ones. You will have one directed specifically at you.'' Lingur - Yes Callanni, I remember how this works from the last election. Callanni - ''Okay. Now, remember what I've taught you. Get out there and win.''

Callanni kisses Lingur on the cheek.

Lingur - Okay.

Meanwhile, Migeot's wife comes to wish him good luck.

Pushele - Good luck out there. Migeot - ''Thank you, sweetie. I'll do as well as I can.'' Pushele - Your welcome honey.

The Candidates go out to begin the Q&A.