Leaked video of a torture by the Shogun's brother (MT)

[New Aeyariss]

OOC: No declarations of war. Keep this human-only and MT (2024 technology).

LEAKED VIDEO OF THE SHOGUN'S BROTHER TORTURING A MAN!
"One of most horrifying things I have ever seen."


Maki Seijuro, the CEO of Bushido Solutions Ltd. and the Duke of Anshan.

Ishikawa - recently, a video has been leaked to our newspaper by an anonymous source. The video portrays the Duke of Anshan and the CEO of Bushido Solutions Ltd, Maki Seijuro, the brother to the Nifonese Shogun Maki Kojiro, engaging in a torture and mutilation of an unknown male. The video can be seen HERE (WARNING, DRASTIC CONCENT!).

The has been shot in an undisclosed location. On the tape, the brother of the Nifonese Shogun is seen waterboarding a man, before taking a knife and severing several chunks of flesh from the man's body. The man is seen screaming and and trying to get away, yet the Shogun's brother remains uncaring.

The video is only the top among a long list of allegations against Maki Sejiuro. Born as the younger brother of the Nifonese Shogun, Maki Seijuro was given in 2003 the title of "Duke of Anshan", and sent to rule the island that the Holy Nifonese Empire took over to create a haven for the Wenchuani refugees. The duke's rule has been described as "extremely corrupt".

"His total wealth is twice Anshan's yearly gross income" says Jose Gutierrez, a senior policy analyst "There is no way that anyone can do buisness on that island if he does not get a cut. If he doesn't his mercenaries burn the buisness to cinders. He also frequently gets wasted food from the Nifonese supermarkets for free and uses it to pay the Wenchuani poor, in a policy described as one of largest violations of labour rights in history."

Asked about the reason why Seijuro was given the title of the Duke, Jose replies "It is believed that he was too much even for the brutal Nifonese dictator. Perhaps Kojiro had enough of his brother's behaviour, but in rare display of humanity could not bring himself to kill him."

Since then, Maki Seijuro has organised in Anshan his own private force, the Bushido Solutions Ltd. Patterend after the ancient Eight Banners Army and described as the "strong arm of the Nifonese capital" the multi-national force of mercenaries has became infamous for gross human rights violations and willingness to perform any task for a proper pay.

Jose Gutierrez however explains that it is unlikely that Maki Seijuro will face any consequences.

"He is too well connected" he says " his wife is a Kurosawa, who own one of largest zaibatsu in Nifon and have a party elder. The Shogun needs him. Thus, there is little chance that any justice will be seen."

[New Aeyariss]

Baishou Gin sat in the middle of a decorative room inside his luxurious villa. Around him was a TV, three sofas; which contrasted with white walls. In the corner of the room was a regal for books, on which one could various works - mostly by Plato, but also by Leo Strauss and Irving Kristol.

He doors opened with hiss and Ito Suzaku has entered the room. The minister of state security was a short man, with a large belly and a round face; few could have expected that a man with so funny look could hide such a monster underneath.

"I have to say, Ito-Kun" Gin smiled as he opened a bottle of sake "You outdid yourself this time."

Gin could not get rid of admiration for the man's achivements. His men had, with little difficulty, penetrated the manstion of the Shogun's brother; managed to record one of most feared men in Nifon engaging in a morally repugnant act, and leaked the video to foreign press. Of course, the press was none the wiser about the real reasons for the video's release; but it was normal for the Nifonese state officials to leak info to foreign press. No one in Nifon had doubts that the domestic one was censored, not even the most diehard supporters of Kojiro.

"It was a piece of cake." replied Ito Suzaku "I seriously thought that the Shogun's brother would have applied more effective means of security. While he lacks experience in our line of work, his brother was the director of Gunpeitai, damn it!"

They both laughed together, raising another glass of sake. "Kanpai!" They shouted, before laying the glasses down.

Finally, the triumph he has been waiting for was coming to close. For too long, he has been on the loosing side; outmanouevered by the Shogun and marginalised in the politial life of the Holy Nifonese Empire. This time, the Shogun would learn how long his fangs truly are.

"With this, we baked two ducks on one stove." Gin said proudly "There is no escaping the evidence now. Kojiro will have to do something about his brother."

".. And doing so will piss off the Kurosawas, thus breaking their agreement and alliance!" Suzaku laughed "A way out of our clinch in the party secretariat is finally at hand!"

"I wonder what that bakayaro will do this time, though." Gin did not hide the fact that he had a very low opinion on his enemy. He admired the man's skill and ruthlessness; but the fact that this man chose to subordinate this kind of skill to such lowly and empty thing as religion made him, in the party elder's eyes, most abominable being to ever exist.

"Seijuro will have to pay the price for his behaviour, no doubt." the minister of state security pondered "I doubt that the Shogun would do much, but he will have to do something."

Then another possibility came to the party elder's head. One that he considered unlikely - but also possible.

"What if Kojiro does nothing?" he querried.

"He will save his alliance with Kurosawas, for sure." Suzaku replied "But at the same time, his prestidge - and Nifon's - will drop. The whole claim that he has been punishing corruption and depravity will no longer have any air to it."

This rang true in Gin's ears. But there was also the matter of censorship.

"His men can censor the domestic media. Ensure that the gaijin are the only ones who hear it."

"But the gaijn are where he does the buisness." Ito smiled "And worry not, my nakama. My men have ways of spreading the information in Nifon even in spite of the censorship. We have been infiltrating the opposition networks for a reason. Time to make a good use of them."

This was welcome news. The Shogun was trapped. There was no way he would not pay one way or another.

"Well then" Gin said "Let us toast to death of the idiots and the new sagely empire!"

"Kampai!" they both raised their toats, announcing a new age of problems for the Shogun.

[Daphomir]

"Leader, I have stumbled upon a rather disturbing piece of footage from New Aeyariss," Leader's Minister of Foreign News said, slightly but noticeably shaking. He hands Leader a tablet displaying the whole video.

"Let me see..." Leader mutters. He watches the video, and grows increasingly horrified with what he is witnessing. "Please tell me you're joking," Leader finally says.

"No, sir. It's spreading like wildfire on international news," the Minister responds.

After several seconds of silence, Leader then says, "Then what are we waiting for? Inform the public at once!"

"Yes sir." the Minister replies.

Daphomir would soon after release a full condemnation of the events caused by the Shogun's brother.

[Socialist Gestachia]

The People's Republic of Socialist Gestachia is well aware of the news a video showing Maki Seijuro torturing an unknown male—likely to death, in fact we broadcasted the video on Channel 1 so all of Socialist Gestachia knows the evil of New Aeyariss.

Make no mistake, this is normal in the hellhone that is New Aeyariss; it is unknown who the victim was or what they did to "deserve" this fate, that is why the Committee on Covert Intelligence Acquisition of the Ministry of State, Internal, and Interior Security is working arround the clock analyzing this video. So far the Committee believes that the video was shot in a concrete building, due to acoustics, however that is currently all that we know.

Cosigned: The Ministry of External, Foreign, and International Affairs and the Ministry of State, Internal, and Interior Security of the People's Republic of Socialist Gestachia.

[Crimetopolis B]

Horror and outrage grip Crimetopolis B at the news footage.

Within one hour, a diplomatic letter reached The Shogun.

"We of Crimetopolis B stand ready to offer aid. A Federal Police Investigation Team, mobile crime lab, and a team of psychiatrists to treat the alleged offender at your request.

Queen Asteria Loyalblade
Royal Palace.
Little GTA Vice City
Crimetopolis B

[Proud Sodom and Lucky Gomorrah]

A Secret and Anonymous Letter delivered to the desk of the Duke of Anshan

To The Great Lord and CEO,

I have seen, as many have around the world, the video of your acts committed upon that man. While I personally find it distasteful, a man of your talents could be useful in the proper settings. Thus I've written to your esteemed person with an offer. While it does not seem you will face reprecussion for this act, there has been mounting diplomatic pressure for your government to do so. Should the winds shift and you believe your position and person under threat, we are prepared to offer you asylum within the Infernal Empire. Your title will be maintained, as will any comforts you've grown accustomed to. If not more given the liberal morality of our state.

In return we request your service in our intelligence department. Your expertise could be crucial in extracting information from Utahn terrorists who plague our national security. Consider it please.

[McNernia]

Cathcride, Archinia
Prime Minister’s Residence

---

Well this will make His Majesty want to get his bride sooner rather than Later. Daonn Fiain Looked at the video on his desktop computer. The Daily Worker, who knew where it was from? Nifon? Anshan? Janipia? A Kalian leak the reports on the URL indicated Kalian Internet. He looked at Maki Sejuro, the Emperor of Archinia saw value in such madmen, and many countries kept such commanders around as a last restort. To give him his own territory was a mistake as likely such abuses would multiply. The Shogun had erred badly in giving his brother so much autonomy and of course authority. A PMC which had a problematic reputation and many had been detained trying to join it was now the least of the concerns of the Empire and the FN.

The Kali Yuga Region was remote from the affairs of Hiru, as the issue stood many were wanting to have as little trade with the blasted place as there was scandal after scandal, the investigations into the coup plot in Archinia which threatened all of the Federal Nations had been kept in the headlines, keeping the meaty investigations in the crosshairs, distracting from the marriage. In essence it was giving the people what they want. What some countries wanted was the public torture of various officials.

He looked at Social Media reports, the descriptions of praise for Sejuros Actions amounted to. “It’s a shame that he is not working for the FN, damn good sight if it was a kiddy d---ling Priest or a politican who bent the knee to Capitalists. Shame it was probably a peasant who didn’t want to eat or feed his kids spoiled food. He looked at the man screaming silently as the video was paused. He looked at the man with the smile on his face.
He looked at Maki Sejuro, his name was infamous as a man who seemed to have no knowledge of how things worked. Greed bad, if it was enabled by his brother its fine. If he was greedy so be it. That was why many mercantile countries were protestant, the Empire was secular nominally but the church had a lot of influence, it had kept the Social Democrats from Abolishing the Monarchy and taking over unions. They had spoken out against the Big banks and such.

Fiain knew that the FN would do nothing which would antagonize the Nifonese. So much the better. He looked at the report. People were not unhappy that there was a zealot, many conservatives and socialists alike were respecting the man but it was a shame he wasn’t working for them. He closed it and looked out the window. There had been chaos in the government, the cabinet had been something aroused to something which was close to action, the FN though had suggested doing nothing. And they would do nothing. Save, send a secret message. As a text from the emperor asking about Tachibana was sent.

---

Official Communique of the Empire of Archinia
Office of the Prime Minister of the Empire of Archinia

From: His Excellency the Rt Hon D.Finan Prime Minister of the Empire of Archinia
To: The Foreign Affairs Commissioner of the Holy Nifonese Empire, Tokugawa Askua
Cc: The Office of His Excellency the Shogun of Nifon, Maki Kojiro
Sec: MOST SECRET-DIPLOMATIC CABLE-MOST SECRET
Sub:The Duke of Anshan

Greetings
The leak of the footage by persons unknown to the Daily Worker of what some in the Archinian intelligence community are saying could be Janipa or maybe Eulabia of Maki Sejuro torturing what we are inclined to believe in Archinia and the FN is a innocent peasant who was inclined to ask his liege lord for a meal that wont kill his kids.

Its has been proposed that Maki Sejuro be suspended as Sovereign of Anshan with the implementation of a Commonwealth making the island governed under the Nifonese ruling party with the Empress Hinata as head of state taking it away from the current Duke. We also desire the presence of the Princess Tachibana as soon as possible and the return of Prince Adrian Metz-CUigtur.

Signed
-D.Fianin PM

[Santoak]

Shinji Soryuu woke up the same way he had for the past month, drenched in sweat. The summer season was starting to get brutal this year. The aftermath of the M.A.G.E Zaphkiel's attack was still being felt a decade later. Even after being defeated by a joint Santoak-Malay force in the straits of Malacca, its angelic contamination continued to wreak havoc on the Pacific's weather systems. He extricated himself from the now-soaked bedsheets and hopped into the shower. The water pounded him from every angle as he tried to wash away the night's exhaustion. The nightmares were getting worse. Doctor Han's medication was becoming less and less effective. Every night he kept going back to Vladivostok.

After throwing on one of a hundred identical suits that lined his closet, the Prime Minister walked across the hall into the dining room. Today's breakfast was a mug of coffee and some scrambled eggs. Nothing too complex. The gut wound he had taken back in 2007 had ruined his stomach. Not that he cared much for fine foods anyway outside of events.

"Good morning gentlemen," Shinji said as he took his seat at the head of the table an hour later. The conference room overlooked Tokyo-2's bay, allowing a perfect view to watch the hundreds of ships go past lazily. Though today was hardly one he could afford to be lazy on. "What's new?"

"To begin, sir, the situation in Sicily has continued to deteriorate. Open firefights broke out between nationalist protestors and state police in Palermo last night. Nobody can ascertain who shot first but our contacts in Rome are already reporting the death toll to be around seven hundred. Military intervention is already being discussed in Marius' cabinet. We believe it to be unlikely as Marius has shown a history of avoiding conflict with the Turks," the man sitting to Shinji's left was Director Furukawa of the Public Security Agency, appearing utterly unmemorable as if he had been snatched off the streets. Normally foreign intelligence would be briefing the Prime Minister but the Kempeitai didn't have the best relations with the civilian government. In fact, just last night Furukawa had fifteen Kempeitai agents murdered in the sewers of Tokyo-2 for the crime of treason.

"I'll arrange something with Kamikawa. She's proven herself excellent when it comes to relations in Southern Europe. The last thing I need this close to election year is having to deploy the SSDF again."

"Additionally, you may have heard of this before sir, the Duke of Anshan from the Holy Nifonese Empire has recently been implicated on video on some... truly horrific torture. I must admit, Soryuu, I've seen and done plenty of things that would make your throw up but this one churns my stomach. It's just-"

"Unnecessary."

"Correct. There's little point and purpose. Robs all the artistic value. Anyway, I've just forwarded a dossier of everything we have on the man to your tablet if you need further details."

Shinji spent a minute reading through, his brow frowning as he got further and further down. Another syndrome of capitalism run amok and a sign of the triumph that came from Socialism with Santoakian characteristics was his first thought. But he realized this was simply a matter of power, power enabled by monied greed, but power nonetheless. He himself could enact the same horrors if he so wished. "Well short of arranging a death squad to go after this man, there's nothing more we can do to stop him in the immediate term. However, I suppose I could go down to the Kasumigaseki and talk with Suzuki. Draft up a list of hard-hitting sanctions against any business we can link with him until the Shogun prosecutes the Duke. I can't touch anything if it's military-related but hopefully, it'll put him in the hot seat."

Shinji turned to his secretary, "How soon can we make a brief press statement on this?"

[New Aeyariss]

*** Seijuro's residence

---

The Nifonese Shogun stood over his brother. The ruler of Nifon looked like an angry tiger, about to pounche on an unsuspecting sheep. In front of him sat, on a decorative and elaborate chair with golden legs and back made of fine wood, Maki Seijuro. The Duke of Anshan looked like a scarred kitten, about to confront his mother.

"DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT YOUR STUNT MAY COST US, OTOTO!" the shogun roared "TOKUGAWA-SAN RECEIVED ENDLESS STREAM OF MESSAGES TODAY! THEY ALL CALL FOR YOUR HEAD!"

Seijuro lowered his head, and continued to look at the floor. The Shogun knew that the sole desire of his brother, aside from torturing people and fighting in any war he could get him to fight, was to get his approval. Seijuro worshipped and idolised his endless brother. It was a pity that the idolisation couldn't stop him from torturing people when the Shogun asked him to.

"Onii-sama" he started in a meek voice "You know I have tried. But I can... I can't. I tried. But I can not stop..." He kept on mumbling, trying to explain himself.

The Shogun sighed. He had no idea what caused his brother to be like this. Right now he sincerely regretted calling them man back from Anshan to restore their relations. But what was done was done.

"Our agreement was that I will be giving you criminals to execute my justice upon and have fun at the same time. IF, and I underline IF, you can keep this quiet. You didn't. Now I once again will have to lie to cover up for you. And while I have no intent to sack you otouto, you are going to be punished. I will need to think about how."

No, he couldn't get rid of his brother. Not only would that torpedo his alliance with the Kurosawas, upon which his current dominance in the Imperial Reverence Party relied; but he knew too well how loyal to that man Bushido Solutions Ltd. was. Strangely enough, Seijiuro loved to cause pain but could restrain himself to his closest ones. Thus, he treated his mercenaries like his own sons (with exception of the Arashi-M, but they were not seen as Bushido proper); and their loyalty to them was legendary. A mutiny was a certainty, and Seijuro had 50 000 soldiers under his command. A force not impossible for Nifon to defeat; but the image wise, it would be a catastrophe.

"I know Onii-sama..." the Shogun could not hide his amusement about a man as feared as Seijuro being reduced to... this by his mere presence.

"But that brings us to our another point." the Shogun continued "Were we able to identify who caused the leak?"

Seijuro straigthened his face "Not yet, Onii-sama. But I am suspecting someone aligned to that hebi Gin."

Gin. There was no name Kojiro despised more than that. The Party Elder was too powerful and connected to root him out without causing widespread chaos. But until now, the party had relied on a careful balance between the five elders and their factions. By doing this, Gin has disrupted that balance. He wanted him gone, and he knew that Kurosawas will share the sentiment right now.

"Find out the culprit. Then take him for questioning." he sighed "Meanwhile I will take care of the disorder you have made, otouto."

With that, the Shogun turned out. His conscience was banging against his head like a pneumatic hammer. He would once again have to lie to cover his brother. But was there any choice? He knew that Nifon was a sick place... and there was little he could to to make it less sick.

Meeting hall of the Imperial Reverence Party Standing Commitee

---

The meeting room in Akagi castle was filled with bright, neon light. In the middle of it stood a large, oval table, with five seats connected to it. Behind it, on the wall, hung a portrait of Kenshin Murakami and The Empress. On the opposite edge of the wall was a large screen serving for presentations, with another table for the protocol woman to it's left.

Maki Kojiro, the Shogun of the Empire of Greater Nifon, sat on his chair, dressed in a dark green uniform. Endless medals hung upon him like decorations on Christmas tree. Next to him sat Baishou Gin - in dark smoking, carefully analysing his rival. Opposite him, Aisawa Chikasi nervously bit his cigarette. The remaining two elders were present too, and were starting to settle themselves for the session.

"Kubo-sama..." Gin started, looking in the eyes of the Nifonese Shogun "The behaviour of your brother has caused us all a terrible harm. I request politely that Kubo-sama begins an investigation in this case."

Then the Shogun noticed Kurosawa Hidemaro turn his face to Gin. That was expected, and to his advantage. Hidemaro was, after all, a relative of Seijuro through his younger sister who was married to him. It was expected that he would rise to defend interests of his clan and zaibatsu.

"I think that we ought to be careful here and avoid conclusions." he said "Seijuro-san has been an immense asset to our state and disposing of him so easily may be a bad idea."

"Even worse idea is that we let the situation go without an answer!" Gin shouted "We will become a mockery of the whole world, and our country will scare away potential investors!"

"Seijuro-sama has defended our interests faithfully for decades and you want to sack him, Gin-san?" responded Hidemaro "If we do this, Bushido will mutiny and then you will have a true blow to our image!"

"If it mutinies, the better! We have allowed too much power in private hands!" came Gin's counter.

"This power in private hands is what allowed us to wage wars outside of Nifon without causing discontnent among our population!" Kurosawa stood up, visibly furious. His face was turning red, and his eyes slammed into the desk.

The Shogun could see the protocol woman becoming visibly scarred.

"Interests of Nifon or your zaibatsu?" Gin did not let himself be intimidated.

"Interest of my zaibatsu is the interest of Nifon!" Hidemaro was boiling. To the Shogun he looked like he was about to leash at the party elder to kill him.

"SILENCE!" the Shogun roared like a mighty lion.

Once the room became calm, he continued:

"Kurosawa san is right." he said "Seijuro has been an immense aid to our government and we can not, and will not dispose so easily of him. But we can not let him go without punishment. I have asked our PR experts for advise, and here is what we will do."

The Shogun straightened his back to look more majestic.

"The man whom my brother tortured was a FSANF terrorist. He did not, however rape anyone." the Shogun smiled "We will say that he did. He was captured and escaped. My brother found him and lost control. For that, my brother will be punished by having half of his wealth confiscated."

It was a good idea, he thought. With that a show of justice would be made. His brother would scarcely feel it, citing that he would still have the remaining 150 billion $ to enjoy.

"Kubo-sama I must protest!" Gin replied "No one will buy it. They will say that Seijuro-san got away scot free..."

Indeed, taking half of his brother's wealth was a slap on the wrist, but at least it would allow the Shogun to save face. The Shogun did not like it himself, but there was some merit to Kurosawa's words; Seijuro really did serve Nifon well.

"Gin-san" Kojiro addressed his enemy "Your protest is noted. However my word is final. This is what we dill do. The meeting is dissolved."

And with that, the Praty Standing Commitee stood up and left the room.

[New Aeyariss]

Maki Kojiro (@makikojiro)
Just now from Ishikawa, Nifon

This is an official statement of the Shogun of the Holy Nifonese Empire:

With a very grave heard I have learned of the recent actions of my brother. I have to say that I am myself shocked.

We are currently carrying out an investigation of weather the video is true, and weather the actions of my brother had any deeper context. Upon the investigation being complete, I will take appropritate action and direct the case to the Highest Imperial Court.

Namu Iesu Krishtou, Tenno Heika Banzai!

---

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE HOLY NIFONESE EMPIRE

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"OVER NIFON - ONLY HEAVEN!"

---

ATTN: Ministry of Foreign affairs of the Free City of Norfolk.
SUBJECT: RE: Assurances of Peaceful Intent
ENCRYPTION: TOP SECRET

---

Your Excellency:

The government of the Holy Nifonese Empire wishes to communicate the following to the government of the Free City of Norfolk: that the Holy Nifonese Empire applauds and thanks for the decision that has been taken by the government of the Free City of Norfolk.

The Holy Nifonese Empire understands that each nation has a right to have it's own policy regarding sociocultural issues, and does not wish to intrude in sociocultural policy of other nations. However, it also wishes that other nations abstain from intereference with the social and cultural policy of the Holy Nifonese Empire. The right to national sovereignity is a fundamental right of every nation.

Arigatou Gozaimasu!

---

- Tokugawa Asuka, Minister of External Affairs of the Holy Nifonese Empire..
- Maki Kojiro, Supreme Commander for Pacification of Barbarians of the Holy Nifonese Empire.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE HOLY NIFONESE EMPIRE

---

"OVER NIFON - ONLY HEAVEN!"

---

ATTN: His Excellency the Rt Hon D.Finan Prime Minister of the Empire of Archinia
SUBJECT: AID
ENCRYPTION: TOP SECRET

---

Your Excellency:

The government of the Holy Nifonese Empire wishes to communicate the following to the office of His Excellency the Rt Hon D.Finan Prime Minister of the Empire of Archinia: that the Holy Nifonese Empire is currently carrying out an investigation in these matters. It is right now too early, according to view of Kubo-sama, to draw any conculsions.

Howver, any political changes to the status of Duchy of Anshan are not currently planned. Assuming that Kubo-sama decides to punish his brother by deposing him, another Duke will be likely appointed from the Maki Family.

Her Majesty the Princess is currently headed to Archinia as we speak.

Arigatou Gozaimasu!

---

- Tokugawa Asuka, Minister of External Affairs of the Holy Nifonese Empire..

[New Aeyariss]

OFFICIAL COAT OF ARMS OF THE DUKE OF ANSHAN

ATTN: The govenment of Proud Sodom and Lucky Gomorrah
SUBJECT: Letter
Encryption: Top Secret

---

Your excellencies:

I thank your excellenies for the kidness that was displayed to me in that proposal, but at this point it is not necesary. Additionally, I wish to inform that I am loyal subject of my brother the Shogun and Her Augustness the Empress. As such, I will not betray their trust in any manner.

While I have no plans to defect to the state of your excellencies, there is a lot I can offer without it. I can provide quality organs for transplant, harvested from terrorists and criminals in my duchy; and if my brother agrees, I can offer well trained and experienced mercenaries to fight the insurgents in Utah. Such an arrangement would however require a permission from my brother the Shogun.

I hope that our relations develop positively.

- Maki Seijuro, the Duke of Anshan and CEO Of Bushido Solutions Ltd.

[Europe a Nation]

ㅤ

EANews

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Nifonese Leadership Faces Serious Allegations
Amid Torture Video Leak

Lunden 4 May 2024

---

The political landscape in Nifon is reeling from the impact of a leaked video showing Duke Seijuro Maki, brother to Shogun Kojiro Maki, engaging in the brutal torture and mutilation of a man. This disturbing revelation has not only cast a shadow over the Shogun’s leadership but has also exposed significant fractures within the ruling party’s upper echelons.

Political analyst George Lawrence stated, “The mere release of such damning material is evidence that Shogun Maki faces severe intra-party opposition that strategically undermines his authority from within.” Lawrence elaborated that in authoritarian regimes like Nifon’s, where external dissent is systematically quashed, internal strife is particularly hazardous. This strife often poses a greater threat than in democracies, where multiple power centres prevent the concentration of power.

The incident shines a stark light on the vulnerabilities inherent in personalist dictatorships. Such systems, where power is concentrated in the hands of a single figure, are prone to intense and secretive power struggles. “The existence of this video and its contents could trigger a significant political crisis in Nifon, where the ruling family’s unity is crucial for maintaining control,” Lawrence added.

Duke Seijuro Maki, often described as the notorious black sheep of the ruling family, has a history of embroilment in multiple corruption scandals concerning his "personal properties" – Duchy of Anshan and Bushido PMC. These controversies are merely the tip of the iceberg, with the leaked video serving as another significant blow to the Maki family, potentially the most damaging caused by Seijuro yet. This latest scandal prompts a pressing question: how many more skeletons does Kojiro Maki’s brother have in his closet, and what further risks do they pose to the regime’s stability?

One thing is clear: Shogun Kojiro Maki must address his brother's actions decisively. "He will have to do something about his brother's actions or he will endanger not only himself but also the stability of the regime he has built during his 40-year tenure," Lawrence concluded.

[Greater Carloso]

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Maki Kojiro vows investigation over alleged video of brother
Nifonese government seeks to limit damage as video appears to show Shogun's younger brother mutilating and killing prisoner

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Maki Seijuro, Duke of Anshan and CEO of Bushido Solutions

ISHIKAWA 一 Nifonese Shogun Maki Kojiro has found himself under unprecedented political pressure following the publication of a video within the last few days alleging to depict the Shogun's younger brother, Maki Seijuro, mutilating and torturing a man in an undisclosed location. The video was released by international left-wing media outlet The Daily Worker, appearing to show a man waterboarding an individual, before cutting off chunks of their flesh. Seijuro currently serves as Duke of Anshan, a small island off the south-eastern coast of Wenchuan, and populated by many refugees from the war-torn country. Seijuro is also chief executive officer (CEO) of Bushido Solutions, the largest private military company in Hasua. Additionally, late last year it was announced that Shogun Kojiro had made Seijuro's son, then 19-year old Maki Hisoka, his heir to succeed him. Though the veracity of the footage has not been confirmed, Kojiro, in a statement through social networking site Setsuzoku, said “We are currently carrying out an investigation of whether the video is true, and whether the actions of my brother had any deeper context. Upon the investigation being complete, I will take appropriate action and direct the case to the highest Imperial Court.”

Speaking to RTC News, Professor Efraín Linares, lecturer in Comparative Law at the University of Madrigal, expects that, should the Nifonese government be forced to put Seijuro on trial, it is likely Shogun Kojiro will refer his case to the Imperial Supreme Court, the apex court in Nifon which tries cases of particular national importance or public interest. It is composed of 9 justices, 6 of which are appointed by the Sonteito-dominated Imperial Diet, while the remaining 3 are directly appointed by the Shogun. As Shogun, Kojiro will be able to actively intervene in proceedings, and will be able to influence the outcome of any case to a great extent.

President Tobón briefly addressed the incident during a press conference earlier today, saying "First and foremost, this is an internal matter for the Nifonese government, and I have full confidence in their justice system to bring the perpetrator to justice." Mariah Contreras, Leader of the Socialist Republicans, meanwhile, said “The video undeniably proves Seijuro's murderous tendencies, which is simply a reflection of his older brother. Carloso must work to divestest itself entirely from this fascist state, and we can only do that by getting President Tobón out of office.” Leader of the Republican Union, Dr. Járed Felgueiras, said that “The video is utterly grotesque and it proves, unequivocally, the bad pedigree that exists within the Maki family. We should not be associating with people like this.”

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[Janpia]

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"How can one be well...when one suffers morally?"

- Leo Tolstoy

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Opera of the Echelons - Ch. 1
Fort Kalinka, Union of Party Members Committee Building, Session Hall
Theme

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The scenes under the roof of the Union of Party Members Committee Hall typically comes with every union representative on one side, and the members of the Party Central up to the People's Marshal herself on the other. The arrangement was simple yet it somehow sparks with grandiose, with the entire session hall looking more like a fancy opera house suited for the nobles and the rich. The places on the stage are occupied by the higher echelons of the Party, and the audience area is occupied by the union representatives. Within this set-up, laws and acts were made, with major decisions being created from the results of shouting and rancorous debates coming from the thousands of union representatives and among members from various Party organs. And for these reasons is why Commissar Stevreschka has developed a certain hatred to join every Party Members Committee session. With his hands covering his glasses in dismay, he remained slump on his seat with the Daily Worker newspaper on his desk, all while facing the hundreds of thousands of union representatives who are watching him.

"How many times must the Revolution bow down for these interests of yours?? The Nifonese have shot their students in Ishikawa; they have been known for arresting socialist individuals; And just now, you wanted our union to be dissolved just because this rumor you constantly downplay turns out to be true?!"

Representative Ruschokama shouted with anger from his chest. But Commissar Stevreschka remained silent, slowly sinking to that particular feeling of the entire session hall being dwindled to a blanket of whispers around him.

Representative Ruschokama: "An anonymous source has provided us a graphic video showcasing someone performing an inhumane act! This was done not just by any Nifonese, but from this Duke of Anshan himself! It is quite preposterous to say that the Janpian Union would bow down to yet another incursion of human rights perpetrated by someone who has a higher ranking in their government and who so happens to be one of their most influential businessmen as well! Its even more questionable- nay, arising to say that you just dissolved OUR union for reporting that simple truth!"

Ruschokama's words were received with nods and approval by the other union representatives. But regardless, he continued his shouting parade.

Representative Ruschokama: "Aren't we a democratic Party? By what right does Commissar Stevreschka have to just dissolve our union without prior consultation to this session? We must set the line somewhere and I would be willing to chalk their authoritarian boundaries! As the representative of the Daily Workers Journalist Union, we have been injusticed by the Commissar's decision! He has fired against the wrong enemy! Not Nifon, but a union! Much more its a journalist one!"

He then faced back to his fellow representative members and continued

Representative Ruschokama: "What Seijuro did this time was inhumane, immoral, and over all, against to our Revolutionary core ideals of liberation! What happened to our saying: no master above and below us? We should condemn and pressure their government to concede to our Revolutionary demands, now that we have the moral standing to do so! Not shutting us down!"

The whispers from the crowd soon became louder and louder

"That is correct. Are we really gonna dissolve one of our unions just for the sake of keeping relations with Nifon and appeasing their shogun's brother? We should condemn Nifon instead!"

One of the union representatives lowly said. But for the rest of the members, they began speaking up with one another, and it wasn't that long until there was a shout, which sparked a rancor of debates along the audience area. For Stevreschka Osch, the Commissar of the Ministry of International Communications, this is the part that he hated the most. He personally deregistered the Daily Worker Union just for the sake of maintaining relations with Nifon and would rather not have anyone talk about his decision. As pragmatic as he is, for him, the reason he did it was simple and does not require much heavy explanation: Good relations with Nifon means better trade. Which also translates for the betterment of the "Revolution" that everyone loves. But the crowd just continues to get louder and stronger, even though its just Ruschokama who have his microphone on from the entire audience.

"The Janpian Union must not succumb to these capitalist-imperialist-monarchist scum!" "The existence of our union must be for the people's decision!" "The Revolution has made its enemies clear. Nifon is one of them!" "We should set the motion to demote the People's Marshal and Commissar Stevreschka!"

Lowering his hands from his glasses, he looked to the crowd. The shouts of the people, the debate, its almost as if the Party itself is disorganized. The blanket of whispers has finally been lifted and the Party's ugly heads is in full view in front of Stevreschka. He then takes a look at the People's Marshal who was clearly clueless of the entire ordeal, despite some people calling for her to resign as well. Seeing the rest of the Commissars looking at him in silence, he felt compelled to respond for himself and for the rest of the Party Central members as well.

Despite his old looking self, he is still quite strong physically and intellectually. But he doubt his mental capacity is capable enough to answer the audience. But its worth a shot for him to calm their inquiries at the very least.

Commissar Stevreschka: "I am a diplomatic man by nature, given by my elected position in the Party"

He reassured, but everyone on the audience continued to shout towards him

"Traitor!" "A duty for the revolution? You are a joke!" "Daily Worker Union isn't unrevolutionary you bastard!"

Taking a deep sigh, he adjusted his microphone and spoke in a somewhat loud and stern voice

Commissar Stevreschka: "I am a diplomatic man by nature, given by my elected position in the Party!"

Stevreschka looked around as the rest of the crowd began piping down, all while Ruschokama remained standing on his position. Soon after, the session hall is blanketed by whispers once again

Commissar Stevreschka: "As a man in charge of this Party's diplomatic affairs, would it be unfair in general to follow all of your suggestion to treat and classify the entire Nifonese nation, just because of a single man's unrevolutionary act?"

Ruschokama: "Not just by any man, but the brother of their shogun! And thats not all. You dissolved OUR union just because we reported it!"

Ruschokama quickly responded with a slight anger not visible from the Commissar. But nevertheless, Stevreschka already expected that answer

Commissar Stevreschka: "The revolution that we aspired of has no brothers, no sisters, no masters above or below us, with no titles other than a comrade as according to the liberation ideals. Therefore, applying this reasoning, the Revolution does not see that man performing a vile act as a brother of the shogun's or even as a duke, but as an individual person doing such actions that goes against his reputation and moral standing. It would also be unfair to equate one man's actions for the entire natio-"

Rep. Ruschokama: " Do not twist the ideals of the Revolution you old man! The Revolution aspired for the goodness and equality of every human being! Murder is murder! And liberation means not having any masters that will torture or cut people up! It is also equal if the higher up of Nifon gets proper punishment to be endured by the Nifonese nation that he holds responsibility of! We should make a diplomatic spat and pressure their government to concede to the workers, now that we have the moral ammunition to use against them!"

Commissar Stevreschka slowly pulled his rounded glasses out and wiped them, before responding

Commissar Stevreschka: "Yesterday.... "

He paused wiping his glasses and tries to look at Ruschokama very carefully

Commissar Stevreschka: "I have read in the news that there was a union representative who was arrested for stabbing someone because of a local dispute in their labor union. It was a typical fight for who gets to lead a certain operation"

He wears his glasses back. Ruschokama's serious face seems much clearer now in his view.

Commissar Stevreschka: "Luckily, his victim survived from his attacks. But he is currently under intense medical care"

Silence creeped in as he takes a short pause, with all of them waiting for him to continue. Feeling the whispers fade away to a complete silence, Stevreschka only gave a short positive stroke of breath and asked a question.

Commissar Stevreschka: "Given that you are also an elected union representative, or rather a former, who would you blame? The representative or his labor union?"

Ruschokama didn't flinched, but he still answered in a more calmed tone

Rep. Ruschokama: "That is an odd and an unrelated question Commissar. The degrees of a union representative stabbing someone is different from a brother of a national leader cutting someone up alive!"

Commissar Stevreschka: "But I thought you said murder is murder!"

The Commissar slumped down from his chair and continued

Commissar Stevreschka: "It would be disrespectful to say this, but I must rephrase your own words and logic: liberation means not having any masters that will torture; or in this case, stab people up. It is also equal if the said representative gets proper punishment to be endured by the labor union that he holds responsibility of."

He said the lines plain and monotonously, as if he was mocking Ruschokama's rousing entry for debate.

Commissar Stevreschka: "Tell me. How is a union representative like you any different from another higher up position like the one in Nifon? More importantly, what is the difference from the stabbing incident that we have here from the ones on Nifon?"

Ruschokama remained silent for a few seconds. In between Ruschokama and Stevreschka, its as if the blanket of whispers has completely been thrown away from the Commissar and is now dwindling to Ruschokama. From there, Ruschokama realized that he lost on trying to condemn Nifon. Trying to save face, he attempted to switch the topic about his union instead.

Rep. Ruschokama: "Then what justification do you also have to dissolve our union for speaking the truth? Is it not the Party's interest to pursue the freedom of speech and human rights as well?"

Stevreschka already expected that answer. He knows that he would save his face, but he still expected that he would bring up some revolutionary connotations against Nifon, just like every union representatives that he argued with. Its almost like its in their blood to bark at the Revolution's enemies. But regardless, he closed his hands along in his desk where a copy of the Daily Worker's newspaper lies

Commissar Stevreschka: "It is indeed within the Party's conviction to pursue human rights and to promote the ideals of the Revolution such as free speech. However, everything also comes with a price just as the freedom that was won by our ancestors."

He takes a short pause and takes a look at the carved furnishings on the roof over the audience area, filled with intricate patterns centered at a single dome containing a chandelier.

Commissar Stevreschka: "And that price comes with the sacrifices of certain smaller aspects for the Revolution's security of interests such as the economy, relations, and among others. "

Rep. Ruschokama: "So at the cost of one union, which are among the many that builds the Revolution, Janpia would continue relations with Nifon just for it to live? Is that what you are trying to say? Then wouldn't that make you a traitor then, Commissar Stevreschka? Killing the Revolution slowly just for it to live is paradoxical and unrealistic! You mean to say that you personally dissolved our union for the sake of security? I am sorry to blurt this out in this honorable hall, but that is just plain bullshit! Its almost like we are the enemies of the revolution and not Nifon, who should be condemned instead!"

Commissar Stevreschka: "And risk our business, our economy, and maybe even set ourselves to a possible armed conflict with them as you suggested earlier?"

Stevreschka was rather straight-forward in his question and answer, which Ruschokama thinks was satire. A joke even on his hears. But before he could answer, Commissar Ariso Yuslaka of the Ministry of Economy and Trade spoke up

Commissar Ariso: "I know you would answer that business, economy, and all those are useless under the Revolution- and you my friend, are gravely mistaken."

Stevreschka sighed with relief and covered his eyes under his hands once again, letting his fellow Commissar to continue. At the very least, Stevreschka's assumption was correct. Ruschokama would still try to use Revolutionary connotations on his arguments.

Commissar Ariso: "The clothes you are wearing are from Janpia's vast cotton fields, which was harvested and manufactured with machinery that was ordered straight from Nifon, I bet! But going to my point, have you at least thought of spreading the Revolution through non-confronting means?"

Rep. Ruschokama: "Revolution and non-confronting. Do you not find your words contradictory Commissar? I suppose it is true that the Revolution is not yet over in the Janpian front, given that the two of you are traitors! The Revolution is built by unions, and you have dissolved one of them!"

The faint whispers slowly gets louder. But unlike earlier, not one of them have the courage to stand up and openly slander the Commissar anymore, or openly rally with Ruschokama. The whispers aren't against the Commissar this time, but rather, it is divided.

Commissar Ariso: "Spreading the Revolution does not always mean brute forcing it down. Water takes time to boil."

Commissar Ariso leaned slightly forward, just smiling.

Commissar Ariso: "Worth mentioning that spreading our influence through peaceful means through the economy is the best way to achieve the Revolution without firing a shot! This is the modern revolution! Destroying the Revolution's economic aspects destroys not just her fingers, but the entire arm! In this manner, it is safe to say that maintaining your union was unrevolutionary as it would harm the Revolution in the long run! Your union indirectly conflicts the interests of Nifon which would also make them conflict against ours!"

Ruschokama remained silent and unable to answer. He wasn't able to win his earlier argument about condemning Nifon, and now he felt like he can't defend his own union. He can feel all his efforts that he made shattering in front of his eyes.

Rep. Ruschokama: "Then what is our mistake? Is it not the journalist union's duty to report the truth!? We are a union made up of less than 25 people! What harm have we done for the Revolution that permits its dissolution!?"

Commissar Ariso: "You are correct that its a journalist's duty to report the truth. But your lack of future oversight on your union's writing is what brought to its dissolution! You didn't thought of the repercussions that it may incur, nor do you have any idea of the outcomes of leaking events that can cause major political engagements which would define relations; which in turn also affects the benefits of the Revolution!"

Ariso then looked towards Stevreschka

Commissar Ariso: "What Commissar Stevreschka did is proper for the Revolution and not a betrayal. The Daily Worker as it currently stands is anti-revolutionary, and by all means must be dissolved properly for the sake of keeping positive relations and influence with Nifon."

Then there was a long silence from the audience and the stage. But the blanket of whispers remained.

[New Aeyariss]

Miya Tetsuo sat in the middle of her living room, watching the television. The television was spewing typical propaganda nonsense that she became used to when watching the Nifonese TV; an elegantly clad news anchor woman, who was likely an AI generated image, kept presenting today's accomplishments of the Shogunate. She knew however, that the accomplishments were at least partially true; as evidenced by her own house. During the Kojiro's rule, her familly grew in riches from the lower to the upper class.

She then rose up, took the pilot and pressed the button. The TV turend off, while she opened her laptop. Linux flared up. She knew better than to use the state-distributed NOS (Nifonese Operational System) that came with most Nifonese electronics; the amount of back doors that allowed the party access to your information contained in it was staggering.

Once the computer flared up to life, she activated her TOR, and entered the dark web. For most of citizens of the west, the darknet was a place of criminal activity; but in Nifon darknet was the only area where citizens were allowed to freely express their opinions and share information without the party's watchful gaze.

She visited one of darknet's information blogs. The blog has just posted a video - one that featured the Shogun's brother. Curious she activated it.

Five minutes later, she vomitted in an uncontrollable reaction.

It took her several minutes to recollect her thoughts. For a long time, she had doubts about the party; but this was the last straw. Most of her life she admired the Shogun for prosperity he has given her; but now... now she could not sit idly any longer.

"Anata, everything all right?" Her husband entered the room, his face full of concern.

"It is... okay." she said slowly "I just watched the Shogun's brother brutally murder a man."

Her Husband looked at her in concern:

"One of your unofficial news sites again? Anata you should not be doing this. You know that we could be in trouble if they learn we are using illegal programs."

She wasn't afraid that much. She knew all too well that use of TOR or VPN networks was quite popular in Nifon, despite being illegal. If there was a demand, there would be supply.

"Honey, please." she sighed "Just look at the laptop."

Her husband played the video. She watched his face go from concerned to pale with shock. Her Husband's mouth opened wide, and eyes went pale with terror. For a while he just stood in front of the laptop, recollecting himself only a minute afterwards.

"That's... I have no words to describe it." he said.

"I think it is time we took action, anata." she said, with pleading eyes towards her husband "We ought to spread the video, and organise a protest. It could be the moment that will put an end to the Shogun's reign!"

Idealistic enthusiasm was overflowing inside her mind. She had spent most of her youth in Inyursta, and seen how that society functioned. She admired the Gaijin from LAL... but it seemed that her values contrasted with the values of the rest of society.

"Anata, I think we should stay out of this." her Husband relied "First, we do not know the context of this video. For all it matters, the man could have been a terrorist or a criminal."

"And if he was, what does that matter?" she cried in protest "That does not justify use of such measures."

Because in her mind, it didn't.

"Maybe it doesn't, but what do I care?" her Husband replied "The less we get involved, the easier our life will be."

She could not believe her husband's words. But her next thoughts made her realise that it has been a problem with the Nifonese society at large. Most Nifonese did not seem to be interested in anything related to politics as long as their needs were met. The new Murakami car, prosperous home, and being left alone was all they needed to aaccept the tyrants that ruled over them.

"And if they come for our property one day." she countered.

"Anata, for so long the Shogun has not only not come for our property, but expanded it." her husband replied "It was him who cut the taxes down. Him who introduced measures that benefit us all. Do we want to turn against our benefactor over a single video, context of which we do not even know; and one that does not concern him directly?"

"But the Shogun tolerates this mosnter around!"

"And how do we know why he does that? Do you think, anata, that politics are simple? The Shogun is no kami. His brother is the Duke of Anshan; and even if the Shogun wanted to persecute him, last time I have checked there are 50 000 mercenaries under his brother's command. Is a rebellion that could damage Nifon's reputation worth a single man?"

Her husband's arguments seemed logical.... but they insulted the idealistic side of hers. She wanted to live in an ideal world; one where evil was absent. For her to make any compromise with evil was in itself wrong, even if that compromise was necessary. It was better to be a martyr and die than make a single small compromise. It always started with one single step and before long you could not pull yourself out of the swamp.

"I am sorry anata, but I can not sit idly when my country is eaten by corruption." she proclaimed.

Her husband sighed. She could see resignation in his eyes.

"Do what you will." he exclaimed "But I will not risk myself to save you if you fall in trouble." he said and left. The doors were shut down with extremely loud sound.

WIth that, she cleaned the mess she made earlier. Two hours later, she was sending messages to her friends via the TOR.

It was time for a new set of protests.

[New Aeyariss]

Maki Kojiro (@makikojiro)
Just now from Ishikawa, Nifon

This is an official statement of the Shogun of the Holy Nifonese Empire:

With a heavy heart, I have to confirm that the allegations against my brother are regretably true. However, I have to inform everyone of several new pieces of evidence that have surfaced in the meantime.

The man whom my brother has tortured was a FSANF terrorist, responsible for rape and murder of several little girls. My brother's company was hired to transport the man to a penal colony, before the man has escaped. My brother was on station and managed to intercept the man. Guided by righteous fury, he lost control over his own actions and enacted punishment upon the man.

The actions of my brother, while guided by ritghteousness, were however outside the boundaries of the Nifonese law, and as such my brother will have to suffer the consequences. I have directed the case to the Surpreme Imperial Court, which will decide the outcome.

Namu Iesu Krishtou, Tenno Heika Banzai!

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