The Royal Scandal Chapter 3
As the cities and countryside descended into chaos, Nicholas watched in despair as the political landscape shifted dramatically. The Parliament became increasingly radicalized, reflecting the growing tensions among the various groups vying for power. The Prime Minister, overwhelmed by grief from the loss of his son, ultimately resigned, leaving a power vacuum that would soon be filled by more extremist factions.
In a shocking turn of events, a coup was orchestrated by the charismatic yet dangerous Mark Phoenix, a proud Nazi who stormed Parliament, proclaiming victory for his ideology. However, his reign was short-lived; just an hour later, he was assassinated by a secretive group known as the Van Diemen's. This radical extremist faction of blood purists believed that only families who could trace their ancestry to the First Fleet or before Federation should hold power or rights.
Seizing the moment, the Van Diemen's quickly took control, forming their own coup. They allied with the Integralists, Ecclesiastical Nationalists, and the Shinto-Bushido Christians, as well as the Roman Shinto Force Believers. In a single night, these groups combined their beliefs into a new, radical ideology—a fundamentalist religion that sought to redefine the very fabric of society.
They called this new movement *"The Pure Ascendancy", a belief system that emphasized bloodlines, ancestral heritage, and a return to what they considered the true values of the nation. This ideology sought to establish a theocratic state where only those deemed "pure" could participate in governance, effectively marginalizing vast segments of the population.
As Nicholas grappled with the implications of this new reality, he realized that the struggle for power was far from over. The rise of The Pure Ascendancy posed a significant threat to the stability of the nation and to his own position as king.
Nicholas received a comprehensive report on The Pure Ascendancy, detailing the intricacies of their newly formed ideology and belief system. As he delved into the document, he sought to understand the complex tapestry of influences that had coalesced into this radical movement.
The Pure Ascendancy Belief System and Cultural Influences: *
1. *Religious Beliefs: The Pure Ascendancy combines elements of Shinto, Buddhism, Christianity, and the belief in the Force as a spiritual entity. Their religion is a syncretic blend, drawing on the mystical aspects of each tradition to create a unified spiritual framework.
2. *Cultural Influences: The movement heavily draws on the Roman Empire's structure and governance, mixed with feudal elements. It envisions a society where power is centralized, and cultural practices are steeped in Roman traditions, with a focus on martial prowess and discipline akin to Bushido.
3. *Views on Women's Rights: Women are expected to adhere to traditional roles, with limited rights and a focus on domestic duties, reflecting a Roman patriarchal system.
4. *LGBT Rights: The movement is staunchly opposed to LGBT rights, viewing such identities as incompatible with their vision of social order.
5. *Abortion: Abortion is strictly prohibited, considered an affront to the sanctity of life as dictated by their religious beliefs.
6. *Taxes: The economic system is feudalistic, with taxes levied heavily on serfs to support the ruling class and military endeavours.
7. *Capital Punishment: Capital punishment is endorsed and utilized as a tool for maintaining order and deterring dissent.
8. *Military: The military is central to their society, modelled after the Roman legions, with compulsory service and a focus on expansion and defence.
9. *Economic System: The economy is structured around feudalism, with private property rights restricted to the elite ruling class.
10. *Freedom of Speech: Freedom of speech is severely limited, with strict controls on dissent and propaganda used to maintain ideological conformity.
11. *Secularism: The movement rejects secularism, integrating religion deeply into governance and societal norms.
12. *Views on Black People and First Nations Groups: These groups are marginalized and oppressed, viewed as inferior within the hierarchy of The Pure Ascendancy.
13. *Welfare: Welfare systems are virtually non-existent, with an emphasis on self-reliance and survival of the fittest.
14. *Conscription: Conscription is mandatory, with every citizen expected to serve in the military as part of their duty to the state.
15. *Views on Nicholas: Nicholas is seen as a relic of the old world, an obstacle to their vision of a new order. They view him with disdain and as a target for removal.
As Nicholas absorbed the report, the stark reality of The Pure Ascendancy's influence became clear. Their extreme views and rigid structures posed a significant threat to the diverse and inclusive society he hoped to foster.
Nicholas delved deeper into The Pure Ascendancy's views on women's rights, uncovering a set of laws that reflected an extreme interpretation of Roman patriarchy. The report detailed their restrictive and regressive stance on gender roles, highlighting the challenges women would face under their regime:
The Pure Ascendancy's 10 Laws on Women's Rights: *
1. *Military Service: Women are prohibited from serving in the military, as their role is seen as primarily domestic and supportive of male warriors.
2. *Property Rights: Women have no independent property rights. Ownership and control of assets are reserved for male family members or husbands.
3. *Inheritance: Women cannot inherit property or titles. Inheritance is strictly patrilineal, passing from father to son.
4. *Freedom of Movement: Women's movement is heavily restricted. They require permission from male guardians to travel or engage in activities outside the home.
5. *Employment: Women are limited to jobs deemed suitable for their gender, primarily domestic roles or positions subordinate to men.
6. *Single Women: Single women are expected to live under the guardianship of a male relative until marriage, with limited autonomy.
7. *Cultural Role: Women are expected to embody traditional Roman virtues of modesty, obedience, and chastity, serving as caretakers and moral guides within the family.
8. *Marriage Age: Women are expected to marry at a young age, typically between 14 and 16, to ensure early integration into familial roles.
9. *Choice in Marriage: Women have no say in choosing their partners. Marriages are arranged by families to strengthen alliances and social standing.
10. *Divorce: Women cannot initiate divorce. Only men have the right to dissolve a marriage, often leaving women without recourse or support.
As Nicholas absorbed the implications of these laws, he recognized the oppressive nature of The Pure Ascendancy's ideology and the urgent need to address these injustices.
After reading the oppressive laws dictated by The Pure Ascendancy, Nicholas wandered through the halls, deep in thought. The coup seemed to have finally settled, but the reality of the situation weighed heavily on him. His team, concerned for his safety, implored him to flee to New Zealand.
He refused; his resolve unyielding. "I need to stay and fight this," he insisted. But he turned to the women and black members of his team, his expression grave. "You must go to New Zealand," he urged, showing them the draconian laws The Pure Ascendancy had imposed on women. The women reacted with a mix of fear and determination as they absorbed the harsh realities they faced.
"You're my friends," Nicholas continued, his voice filled with emotion. "I love you all like you're my cousins. After my family was lost and following the suicides, I viewed you as family. I can say I loved every moment of serving with you, and that is why, ladies, we have to get you out of here. Take my plane."
He then turned to the black members of the group. "Go with them," he urged, showing them the racial laws. "These bastards don't care for you either, so go with the ladies and protect them."
John, the only one on the team who knew Nicholas's secret—that he was transgender and had undergone surgeries—stood silently, the weight of this knowledge pressing on him. He remembered the conversations they'd had, the trust they shared, and felt a surge of loyalty and concern.
John stood there, processing the gravity of the situation. Remembering that Nicholas was secretly a transgender woman who had undergone bottom surgery, he felt a surge of fear and concern. The implications of The Pure Ascendancy discovering this secret were terrifying, especially given their extreme and oppressive laws.
"Your Majesty," John began, his voice tinged with urgency and worry. "I understand your resolve to stay and fight, but have you considered what could happen if The Pure Ascendancy finds out about your... true identity? Their laws are brutal, and they won't show mercy."
He paused, taking a deep breath. "I know you want to protect us, but you must also protect yourself. If they discover who you truly are, it could be disastrous—not just for you, but for everyone who supports you."
John's words lingered in the air; a stark reminder of the risks Nicholas faced by staying in Australia. The loyalty and concern in John's eyes were evident, reflecting the deep bond and trust they shared.
Nicholas met John's gaze with unwavering determination. "I am staying, John. A captain goes down with her ship, and I will not run like a coward. This is my home, and I will not hide in some bunker. When they come here, I will face them, and come what may, I will not be known as the king who ran. If I am to be the last king of England and Australia and the Commonwealth, let it be known that I stood and fought, and that the Commonwealth did not die with a whimper. I am staying, John. If worst comes to the worst, I will die where I am comfortable, surrounded by the closest thing to family I have."
With that resolute declaration, Nicholas gathered his security team. He addressed them with the same calm fortitude. "I am staying. When the Ascendancy troops come, don't fight. I don't want anyone to die on my account. They have already taken over the government, and the military seems to be going along with it. But if you want to go with the ladies and coloured people on my plane to New Zealand, you can."
The guards exchanged glances, the weight of his words settling over them. Some nodded, accepting the offer to leave, while others stood firm, their loyalty to Nicholas evident in their eyes.
As the women and black members of Nicholas's team embraced him, tears mingled with determination. They hugged him tightly, whispering words of encouragement before fleeing to the safety of New Zealand. John watched them go, a mix of admiration and concern flooding his heart. He remembered Nicholas's secret—his identity as a transgender woman—and felt a surge of protective instinct. He knew the risks that lay ahead for Nicholas, and it weighed heavily on him.
A few minutes later, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. Troops from the Australian army, loyal to The Pure Ascendancy, stormed Kirribilli House, where Nicholas had chosen to reside near Sydney Harbour. The guards, outnumbered and overwhelmed, surrendered without a fight. Thankfully, the women and coloured members had fled just moments before.
As the troops marched into the residence, their eyes widened in surprise upon seeing the king standing before them. Nicholas rose from his chair, his posture resolute, facing the armed men with a calm defiance.
"Have you come to shoot me, gentlemen?" he asked, his voice steady despite the tension in the room.
The soldiers exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of confusion and uncertainty. Some hesitated, caught off guard by the king's composed demeanour.
The soldiers stood in stunned silence as Nicholas, unwavering in his resolve, addressed them with a mixture of defiance and curiosity. "A captain goes down with their fucking ship, and I will not run. I will face whatever comes. I ask about the condition of my guards and their whereabouts. Are you going to round them up and shoot them, or put them on a phony trial, or send them to fight in an arena as gladiators? I know two of the factions that form your new government are obsessed with ancient Rome. Also, some of my bodyguards were women. I know one of them stayed despite my protests. What will happen to her? And yes, I read your laws. I know you view women as property, so at least tell me the truth, gentlemen."
An officer stepped forward, his expression a mix of surprise and intrigue. "Everyone thought you would flee. We came here to find anything of value, to secure it and lock it down. Your being here was not considered likely. My superiors are going to love this—you just made my career, Your Grace."
Nicholas met the officer's gaze, his voice steady. "Are you here to shoot me?"
The officer hesitated, then shook his head slightly. "No, Your Grace. Our orders were to secure the premises and ensure there was no resistance. Your presence... complicates things. But I assure you, no harm will come to your guards or to you, as long as you comply."
Nicholas nodded, understanding the precariousness of his situation. The officer's words were a temporary reprieve, but the future remained uncertain.
Nicholas faced the soldiers with a calm resignation, his words a blend of defiance and acceptance. "Fine. Can I see my guards? And just so you know, the other members of my staff have left. The women and the coloured people are all gone. You came too late if you were looking for playthings."
He paused, observing their reactions. "What are you going to do now? Are you just going to loot the place? Go ahead, I can't stop you. Although I'm still mostly a stranger to Australia—I've only been here for a year and a half, and I've lived here for just two months—you gentlemen, on the other hand, were born in this country. This is your homeland. So if you destroy this building or loot it, you're just destroying your own history."
Nicholas's gaze swept over the room. "Go ahead, as you know all my family are dead, and I have no wife or kids. So go run amok, have fun for all I care. I can't stop you either way—you have the guns. But remember, you're only destroying a building that belongs to you. The Aussie taxpayer paid for it."
He took a deep breath, his tone softening. "Now, I've made my grand speech. Can I see my guards for myself, to at least have a final goodbye and thank them for their service?"
The officer and soldiers exchanged glances, their expressions shifting from surprise to contemplation. The officer nodded slowly, acknowledging Nicholas's request.
The officer agreed, and Nicholas was escorted by the soldiers to where his guards were being held. As he approached, his heart sank at the sight of one of his female guards, her condition visibly distressed. Concern etched across his face; he quickly assessed the situation before addressing all of his guards.
"I meant what I said about no resistance," he began, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "I will keep that order. If you want to condemn me for not dying in some glorious last stand, go ahead. But let's say I did do that. Let's say I had some epic final stand against these soldiers here. Well, that's the kicker—you forgot to ask one question."
He paused, looking each guard in the eye. "The one question is: why am I not on a plane going with the women? It's this question, my friends: what about the day after? Let's say I have a final stand and die. What happens the next day? What happens to the Australian people? Who will stand up for them if I die in some suicidal last stand?"
Nicholas took a deep breath, the weight of his words hanging in the air. "That's right—no one. The day after, the Australian people will need a protector, someone willing to stand up for them. And if I am still alive, maybe, just maybe, I can give them a voice and be the one person who will fight for their interests."
As he finished speaking, the guards exchanged glances, their expressions reflecting a mix of admiration and concern. The gravity of his words resonated with them, igniting a sense of purpose amidst the uncertainty.
That's why, my friends, I am staying—to give voice to the Australian people and to bear witness to what happens next," Nicholas declared, his voice unwavering. "I made an oath on my coronation day to protect the Commonwealth and guard the well-being of the Australian people. I vowed to not let Australia fall to barbarism, to resist the darkness that has infected the rest of the world. This darkness threatens to mean the end of all we have built, all we have achieved—to be destroyed, pillaged, looted, and defiled."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in, his gaze steady. "I made this oath not just to Australia but to all mankind. For if we fall to darkness here, we risk the survival of the human race. And that is why I stayed, why I am not running like a coward. If this new regime thinks I am going to die begging for my life, I will laugh at them. I will die standing, not kneeling. If I am to be the last king of England, Australia, and the Commonwealth, I will fulfill my duty, not die running like a coward. I will be there right beside you through this darkness."
The guards stood tall; their spirits lifted by Nicholas's fierce resolve. They understood the stakes, and his words ignited a fire within them, reinforcing their loyalty and commitment to the king and to the people they served.
Thank you for everything, my comrades, my friends," Nicholas said, his voice filled with gratitude. "I will not throw away your lives in some last-minute stand. No, I want you to live—not just for me, but for your families, who will need you now more than ever. Thank you, my friends, and may God save us all."
He then quietly approached the one female guard who had refused to leave. Concern etched on his face, he asked, "After they captured you, did they treat you any differently? Did they mistreat you in any way?"
Lowering his voice to a whisper, he added, "I have a capsule of cyanide in my pocket. If you want to grab it now, just say the word, and if you do take it, just bite down, and it will be over in minutes. I can't promise you will be safe, but I can see if you can be made my personal guard. You might have to pretend to be a man. I'm sorry, Sarah, but this is the fucked world we live in. These men are monsters; they want to take us back to the dark ages. I'm so sorry, dear. I wish I could have made you take that flight with the other ladies, but we can't change that now."
He looked at her with deep concern. "Now, Sarah, what's your choice?"
Sarah looked at Nicholas, her expression a mixture of resolve and vulnerability. "Your Majesty," she began softly, "they didn't treat me any differently than the others. They were rough, but not more than I expected given the circumstances. I was afraid they'd single me out, but they seemed more focused on securing the area than anything else."
She paused, considering the cyanide capsule Nicholas offered. Her eyes met his, and she saw the genuine concern in them. "Thank you for the offer, but I won't take the capsule. I can't. I want to stay and fight alongside you as your personal guard. If pretending to be a man is what it takes, then I'll do it. I can't abandon you, not now. We've come too far, and I believe in what you're trying to do."
Sarah took a deep breath, her determination evident. "I know the risks, but I also know that this fight is worth it. I want to be here, with you, to see this through."
Nicholas nodded, respecting her decision and grateful for her loyalty. Together, they prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Nicholas led Sarah and two of his male bodyguards to a more private area, his expression serious yet determined. "Look, gents," he began, addressing the guards, "Sarah has chosen to stay. I offered her a way out, a way to escape this new nightmare we find ourselves in. You know what they will and could do to her if they get her. You've read their laws—those that come from Roman times—and their desire to drag us back to the dark ages."
He paused, looking at each of them. "I need your help to make her look like a man. I will make her my personal bodyguard. It's the only way to keep her safe, and I can't do it alone. Can you help me cut her hair, give her some binders, and also help her learn to talk in a lower voice? You have two hours to do the most you can before the rest of you are probably sent somewhere. I doubt you'll be allowed to protect me any longer, but I'm sure they'll allow me a personal guard, and that will be Sarah. So please, you have two hours—do your best. Her life might depend on it."
Sarah nodded, her resolve unshaken, while the two guards exchanged determined glances. They set to work, cutting her hair, finding ways to bind her chest, and coaching her on how to lower her voice. The transformation was hurried but necessary, a desperate attempt to protect one of their own.
As the two hours came to an end, they stepped back, assessing their work. Sarah stood before them, her appearance altered enough to pass as a man, at least for a time. The guards looked at Nicholas, awaiting his next instructions.
The fate of the rest of the guards was uncertain, but they knew they had done everything they could to ensure Sarah's safety.
Nicholas turned to Sarah, now under her new name, Mike. "Thank you, Mike," he said, his voice firm but supportive. "From now on, you're Mike, and you just love the patriarchy. Got it?" Mike nodded, a mix of determination and anxiety in his eyes.
Nicholas then approached the officer, his demeanour resolute. "I request a personal guard. I know you will probably take the rest, but to make me more comfortable and to have someone I can trust with me, I request Mike here to be my personal guard and to always be with me. Mike is solid and dependable, always ready to protect me, and he won't be in your way. So, sir, do you agree?"
The officer regarded Nicholas for a moment, weighing the request. "Your Majesty, I understand your need for security, especially in these chaotic times. I can agree to this arrangement, but I must inform you that the rest of your guards will be reassigned. They won't be shot or harmed, but they will be separated from you and placed under the authority of The Pure Ascendancy."
Nicholas nodded, accepting the officer's decision. He understood the reality of the situation and knew that the safety of his remaining guards was paramount.
As the officer finalized the arrangements, Nicholas felt the weight of the new reality pressing down on him. He turned to Mike, who was now standing by his side, ready to face the challenges ahead. Together, they would navigate this new hell they found themselves in, surrounded by soldiers who were now occupying the residence.
Nicholas watched as his other guards were taken away, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. "Those were good men, the best men I ever had. Now they are going into hell," he lamented. Turning to Mike, he added, "Well, you're stuck here with me. Let's go to my room. You're sleeping in the same room as my personal guard."
Mike chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "I'll do my best to keep those penguins from Antarctica away from you, or those female ninjas who speak this crazy nonsense about women's rights."
As they entered the room, Nicholas pulled out a document detailing a ten-year plan that The Pure Ascendancy had for the nation. He and Mike had managed to gather this intelligence, and as they reviewed the list, the gravity of the situation became even clearer.
The Pure Ascendancy's Ten-Year Plan: *
1. *Establishment of a Theocratic State: Implementing laws that intertwine governance with religious doctrine to ensure absolute control.
2. *Restoration of Feudalism: Reinstituting a feudal system where land and power are concentrated in the hands of a few loyalists, reducing the majority to serfdom.
3. *Censorship of Media: Enforcing strict controls over all forms of media to eliminate dissent and promote propaganda.
4. *Militarization of Society: Expanding military presence in civilian life, requiring compulsory service and loyalty pledges from all citizens.
5. *Eradication of Dissent: Establishing laws that criminalize opposition, with severe penalties for those who resist or speak out.
6. *Revocation of Women's Rights: Implementing strict laws that limit women's roles to domestic spheres, reinforcing patriarchal structures.
7. *Racial Purity Laws: Enforcing policies that prioritize individuals of "pure" ancestry, marginalizing and oppressing minority groups.
8. *Economic Control: Centralizing economic power in the hands of the state, with heavy taxation on the lower classes to fund military and governmental projects.
9. *Religious Indoctrination: Mandating religious education that aligns with The Pure Ascendancy's beliefs, promoting conformity among the populace.
10. *Expansionist Policies: Aiming to reclaim and expand territories, fostering nationalism and militarism among the citizens.
As they reviewed the chilling plan, Nicholas felt a renewed sense of urgency. They needed to act quickly to counter these goals and protect the people of Australia.
Nicholas and Mike approached the officer, seeking permission to remain at Kirribilli House to escape the chaos and turmoil unfolding in the outside world. "Can we stay here?" Nicholas asked, his tone calm yet firm. "The coup has turned everything upside down, and this place offers some semblance of stability."
The officer considered the request, his expression thoughtful. "Your Majesty," he replied, "staying here is possible, but you must understand that your movements will be monitored closely. The leadership of The Pure Ascendancy is aware of your presence here, and they have specific plans for you."
He paused, gauging Nicholas's reaction. "You are to remain under house arrest, Your Grace. You will have limited contact with the outside world, and your activities will be restricted. The leadership wishes to ensure that you do not become a rallying point for dissent."
Meanwhile, the news of Nicholas's capture at Kirribilli House and his refusal to flee to New Zealand reached the ears of the Pure Ascendancy's leadership. Among them was the formidable Jacob Rivers, now known as Arrester Dominican, a hard-fighting and ruthless man. Upon learning of the king's decision to stay, his reaction was one of intrigue and calculation.
Arrester Dominican saw Nicholas's presence as both a potential threat and an opportunity. The king's choice not to flee had piqued his interest, and he pondered how best to leverage this situation to further the Ascendancy's goals.
Arrester Dominican, upon receiving the news about the king's capture and knowing the secret about Mike through his network of spies, pondered his next moves carefully. He crafted a list of ten decisions and demands regarding the king, each one calculated to consolidate power and control:
1. *House Arrest Conditions: Nicholas is to remain under strict house arrest, with all communications monitored to prevent any subversive activities.
2. *Public Statement: Demand that Nicholas publicly endorse The Pure Ascendancy to legitimize their rule and quell potential dissent.
3. *Surveillance on Mike: Intensify surveillance on Mike, knowing her true identity, to ensure she does not become a liability or a symbol of resistance.
4. *Propaganda Campaign: Use Nicholas's presence as a propaganda tool, portraying him as a figurehead who supports the new regime.
5. *Isolation Tactics: Limit Nicholas's contact with any remaining loyalists, effectively isolating him from potential allies.
6. *Conditional Freedom: Offer Nicholas conditional freedom if he agrees to cooperate fully with The Pure Ascendancy's directives.
7. *Cultural Re-education: Subject Nicholas to a cultural re-education program to align his views with the new regime's ideology.
8. *Security Detail: Assign a loyal security detail to Nicholas, ensuring that any attempts at escape or resistance are thwarted.
9. *Public Appearances: Mandate that Nicholas make regular public appearances under strict supervision to project an image of stability.
10. *Leverage over Mike: Use the knowledge of Mike's true identity as leverage to ensure Nicholas's compliance with their demands.
Upon discovering through his spies that Nicholas is secretly a transgender woman, Arrester Dominican reacted with a mixture of outrage and strategic calculation. He convened with two other leaders of The Pure Ascendancy, Simon Mihas and Gideon Rhodes, to discuss this revelation. Together, they crafted a new set of demands and decisions, viewing this development as both a threat and an opportunity:
1. *Public Exposure: Plan to publicly expose Nicholas's transgender identity as a means to discredit him and undermine any residual support.
2. *Forced Confession: Demand that Nicholas make a public confession regarding his identity, framing it as a betrayal of traditional values.
3. *Propaganda Exploitation: Utilize this revelation in propaganda campaigns to reinforce The Pure Ascendancy's narrative of moral decay.
4. *Increased Surveillance: Heighten surveillance on Nicholas and Mike to prevent any attempts to leverage this information against the regime.
5. *Isolation Intensification: Further isolate Nicholas from any potential allies to prevent the spread of sympathy or support.
6. *Cultural Re-education: Intensify efforts to culturally re-educate Nicholas, aiming to publicly align him with the regime's ideology.
7. *Leverage over Mike: Use the knowledge of Mike's identity as a tool to ensure Nicholas's compliance with their directives.
8. *Security Escalation: Increase security measures around Nicholas to prevent any escape or resistance attempts.
9. *Manipulative Negotiations: Offer Nicholas leniency in exchange for cooperation, using his identity as a bargaining chip.
10. *Public Trials: Consider staging a public trial to further discredit Nicholas and solidify The Pure Ascendancy's control.
