2010 Papal Conclave - (OPEN - MT/PMT Nations with Catholics)

[Excalbia]

Walsh nodded at Suurmas' words. “Cardinal Suurmas speaks the truth, Brother,” he said to Higgs. “The Church has withstood persecution, separation from her children, ridicule and disdain. Yet, thanks to the sustaining power of the Holy Trinity, it has survived. Indeed, the Church has often flourished under persecution. And, while we have not faced persecution in Excalbia, we are certainly a minority in a nation with Protestant State church, yet we have managed to sustain ourselves quite well”

“If I may ask, Brother, do all the churches in East Keswick rely on the State for financial support? Surely, if the Protestants are growing, when they are not the national religion, they must be receiving support directly from their congregations. Certainly, as Cardinal Suurmas suggests, your congregations will contribute to the work of the Church.” Walsh paused, as if weighing his next words. “And if the Church in East Keswick does face some short-term financial shortfalls, I am sure that my brothers in the Church back home in Excalbia would be willing to lend their material support.”

[TurtleShroom]

If they are instated as the national religion then they will most certainly cut spending for the Roman Catholic Church, meaning my chapel would go, many priests would be reduced to poverty and Roman Catholisism will most certainly be cast to the wilderness in East Keswick. I am worried, my brothers, that this may be the last Conclave East Keswick will participate in."

It was then that Cardinal Icfella returned, having overheard the response.


"Nonsense!" the Cardinal stated firmly. "In my country, Southern Baptists recieve one tenth of a percent of the state budget by law, a symbolic 'tithe', and are given other offerings- that is, items outside of the mandated tenth -every month or so from the Religion and Spirituality budget. The Baptists roll in dough, while all other Christian denominations and every other faith must be self-sufficient. Indeed, the disoce closest to my home when not on a mission trip maintains its existance solely by tithes. Remember that it is written to relenquish a tenth of your income each time you pay. So, a believer who gets paid weekly deposits his cash every Sunday, a man who is paid monthly deposits his cash every four sundays, and young children will give pocket change every now and then. A healthy church, from tithes, can rake in seven thousand currencies a week. However, as for your financial situation, I think I have something worth checking out."


He brushed his hair off his glasses and ran back down the hall. The Cardinal returned a few minutes later, clutching something in his arms, which he lost when he tripped on his vestments.

"OOF!"


The item clanged to the ground. It was an iron frying pan coated in a gleaming white paint. Various writings and symbols were scrawled on its front and back, so too on the handle, and it was about six inches in diameter with a handle.

Cardinal Icfella was helped up as he explained the item.

"That's a Skillet. In TurtleShroom, skillets bearing all of these markings and such are legal tender in TurtleShroom. White Skillets are the rough equivalent of ten thousand United States Dollars. Although, we're a poorer country, so one Skillet actually equals..."

The boy reached into his cassock and pulled out a portable Sunset Calculator from one of the many pockets, as he feverishly began thumbing away on it.

"One Skillet equals three United States cents. This is a ten thousand Skillet Skillet, so that's..." he continued pressing the buttons, "oh mushroom sticks. That's only three hundred bucks!"

He picked up the pan and handed it to the cardinal from Keswick, a bit disappointed that such an enormous sum in his homeland was nothing next to the United States Dollar, the universal standard.

"Now, I don't know what the United States Dollar is worth in your country, but since international law states that the exchange rate is that of the host country, redeeming this Skillet at a bank will land you three hundred greenbacks. Please, accept this gift from a fellow believer in Christ. It's not that much because of our natonal economy, but I'm sure three hundred dollars can do SOMETHING for God's Kingdom... right?"

Jason then put the calculator away and began pacing as he thought about how to encourage tithes.


"What you're going to need to do is encourage your congregations to perform the Biblical duty of tithes and offerings. Even though the Baptists get free money from the Feds in my homeland, their congregations still have a decent tithing rate. I eman, it's not 100%... more likie 39%, but it alone could hold them up. Now, your fellow Christians across the aisle may not be as nice as ours, but where I come from, Baptist churches donate a tenth of their state funds to other congregations and fellow Christian believers regardless of denominations. In fact, 78% of my local disosce's budget comes from the Baptist's gifts of money. God says to help a fellow beliver. Remember in the Book of Acts when people came up and dropped sacks of money at the Apostles feet, so that it could be distributed commie-style to those in need? You need to remind your Proterstant brothers and sisters of that verse. Have them give a bit of their surplus- not all, but at least some -to you. After all, to harbor that excess wealth would be a sin and would be greedy!"


He continued.

"Brother, you will also need to begin fundraising. Bake sales! Outreach! Luncheons! Visitation! Going to see the sick in the hospital! People need to see the Church as what God wants her to be seen as: caring, compassionate, loving, a place of comfort! What does a congregation of people do? They extend help to their needy, offer rest every Sabbath, and the priest or preacher sometimes goes to otehr folks' houses, especially those too old to leave their home! You must present the Church in a positive light. People always give to a good cause. What better cause than the Kingdom of God? Tithes need to be encouraged! Have ushers walk down the aisle every week, just so the tithers can drop their money when they're good and ready."


Then, Jason smiled a bit cunningly.

"You'll also need the Feds involved. Emulate my homeland! TAX EXEMPT RELIGIONS! That's right. Campaign to your government to strip all faiths of tax! All legitimate religions in TurtleShroom, plus their clerics, don't have to pay any taxes. Cults have to pay an extra 'creepiness tax' to exist on top of business taxes, and of course, the Forbidden Faiths of Satanism, Pastafarianism, and Parody Religions can't exist. What I'm saying is that you need to get your government off your shoulders and tax exempt religion. You will DEFINATELY note an increase in funds when Grandfather Tyler isn't snatching up your cash! Or, whatever you call your national character, like Uncle Pedro or Brother Sam..."


"If you need advice on raising holy money, please try and contact me or a member of TurtleShroom. We'd all be delighted to keep you out of debt, and maybe, just maybe, we could send a little stimulis funds your way by diverting some of the Religion and Sprituality budget towards a certain country... "


Jason winked.


"Anyway, I know that you and the Church will survive any persecution. In fact, history and research proves that religions GROW under persecution! Think about Diciple Peter and Apostle Paul's work in the Early Church! Huh? HUH?!"

He winked again and walked off.

"I wish you prosperity in your future endeavors! OOF!"

He tripped a second time, got up, and head down the hall, disappearing.

[New Lusitaniagrad]

Cardinal Welhelm Rocco will represent New Lusitaniagrad

[East Keswick]

Higgs was a little stunned by Cardinal Icfella's words and actions. It seemed that it was ok to him that the Roman Catholic Church, which had been the state religion of East Keswick since 1153AD, was about to be pushed into the abyss and Icfella was talking about campaigning for less taxes?! In East Keswick, only the state religion is funded by the government. Now Higgs realised why other Cardinal's felt unsafe about electing him as Pope. Nevertheless, Cardinal Icfella's words may be valuable soon, Higgs thought. He turned to the other Cardinals around him:

"Thank you Brothers for your love and kindness. I am pleased that I have helped elect a Pope who will serve the Church well. Now I must return to East Keswick and prepare to begin a life in 'opposition'. Needless to say, I am sure my Duke will need all the comforting he can get. Thank you Brothers, farewell."

With that Higgs returned to his room and began packing his suitcase. He put into the suitcase a medal that that had been given to Higg's father from the last Duke, Charles Grayson, after Higg's father had saved over twenty wounded men in a battle in the War of the Roses 60 years ago. Higgs' father gave Higgs the medal on his deathbed saying "Son, take this. I was rewarded it for saving and helping others in need. Putting their interests before my own." Higgs never forgot these words and they became his guidlines for his career in the church which was now about to finish thanks to the rapid growth of the East Keswick reformed church.

[TurtleShroom]

Higgs was a little stunned by Cardinal Icfella's words and actions. It seemed that it was ok to him that the Roman Catholic Church, which had been the state religion of East Keswick since 1153AD, was about to be pushed into the abyss and Icfella was talking about campaigning for less taxes?! In East Keswick, only the state religion is funded by the government. Now Higgs realised why other Cardinals felt unsafe about electing him as Pope. Nevertheless, Cardinal Icfella's words may be valuable soon, Higgs thought.

OOC: in TurtleShroom, that is true as well. Only the state religion gets funds. All others must scratch up their own cash, but the Baptists in TurtleShroom are compassionate enough to spread the state money to those who need it. The Catholics in East Keswick won't be pushed into the abyss by losing state funding. Hopefully, they will become prosprous without the funds.

---

IC: Cardinal Icfella happened to see the bitterly upset Cardinal Higgs leaving. He ran over to him.

"WAIT! WAIT!" Jason shouted. "Don't go just yet! It seems that you didn't exactly understand what I was saying! That is probably because I butted into a halfway done conversation! Please, tell me more about your homeland's plight. Is the state religion the only legal faith, or what? I wish to help with more and better advice, but I can't really do so without the listening aspect of a conversation. Please enlighten me on your situation; I don't want to see you or your disosce- or any church for that matter -to go bankrupt. What's up in your country, and more importantly, why is losing state funding so troublesome? Please, tell me more so I can help. Oh, and you forgot the Skillet. It's three hundred USD, but I'm sure that God can use that."

He handed Cardinal Higgs the Skillet and waited for his reply. Jason could tell that he was downtrodden and was desperate to learn and help his brother in Christ.

[East Keswick]

Higgs was leaving his room with his suitcase when he turned to look at Icfella. He smiled as the boy spoke, the young cardinal showed innocence and kindness. Higgs knew he could confide in him. He took the Skillet and smiled again. It was a truly generous action. He looked at his watch; he had about 30 mins to spare so he gestured to Icfella to sit on a bench. He put down his suitcase and began to speak:

"Well East Keswick has never really been religiously moral. As I said in the Conclave, Protestants were persecuted as recently as a hundred years ago but this stopped after increased pressure from other countries in our region which are Protestant. Since then, there has always been a level of uncertainty regarding religion. A person's faith still affects their ability to get into a good school, get a high earning job or even get a loan from a bank. For a long time Roman Catholics have dominated society - they occupy the 'top' jobs such as bankers, doctors, lawyers, etc while Protestants have generally lived in... well not poverty but... let's just say not as much wealth as their Catholic counterparts. This growth of Protestantism has caused some political instability and, although there has not been any religious violence for over a century, a lot of people are worried. With Protestantism the state religion and most popular religion, many Catholics, including the Duke himself, worry about what will happen. Will East Keswick's modern and powerful economy collapse? Will there be a civil war? Will the Duke be diposed? They are extremes Brother Jason but still I am most worried about the future. The Protestants may want revenge for the persecution they suffered for hundreds of years. Indeed, there is political party in our parliament which is the 3rd largest, that campaigns for atheism in East Keswick meaning ALL faiths will be illegal."

Higgs let out a sigh - all this was causing him a great deal of grief, along with the fact that his best friend in East Keswick, Cardinal Neil Kilkennny, was in hospital at the moment. Higgs looked up at Cardinal Icfella; the boy was still and motionless. Higgs could not help that despite the situation in Turtleshroom, they young boy would not understand what the situation in East Keswick was. Higgs had a flashpoint in his mind. Wait, he did not know what Turtleshroom was like. He looked at Cardinal Icfella:

"Jason, forgive me for my ignorance. Please tell me about Turtleshroom."

[TurtleShroom]

"Oh... oh oh dear. Well, I... I guess I'll talk about my country before I... before I suggest a repair for yours. Okay... TurtleShroom was and is a Baptist Christian nation. Christianity was introduced by some of the earliest humans in our land at the dawn of our nation's existance. It was about the very late 1700s that turtles and mushrooms collected together into one state as it is now. The humans were evangelical and Puritan- the evil witch hunting predecessor to the modern, good Baptists, AnaBaptists, and the Amish. Amazingly, they looked towards the turtles and mushrooms with pity and compassion, taking a dare and sharing the Gospel instead of burning them. These non-humans embraced Jesus, seeing Him as an answer to their problems and questions. Like witness like convert, the turtles and mushrooms went to the denomination they were witnessed to: Puritans. Now, these Puritan humans were outnumbered by the turtles and mushrooms, now saved, and they had some skirmishes. They weren't too bloody and mostly took place on church pulpits. Eventually, though, the turtles and mushrooms, with the humans, agreed to cast lots. The winner would rule. Senitents even, humans odd. The number fell on a six, and so be it, turtles and mushrooms were declared soverign by cleromancy. So devout were our nations forefathers that they refused to question the dice."

He paused.

"So, they drafted a Constitution. The humans wanted democracy and the turtles a rigid order. They fought for seven years, with what government TurtleShroom had being a loose conglomerate of judges, sort of like the Jewish Sanhedrin system or that of the present day earth's Somalia. We call this period Adhocratic Anarchy. An adhocracy is the exact opposite of a bureaucracy, in that the elite in power have no orders or positions, and they work together across the political aisles to mush up some sort of order. It's like one step above anarchy, with a loose order on the verge of falling."

"TurtleShroom may have been an anarchy forever if it wasn't for our nations most famous human: Jones Found the Glorious! What can I say about Jones to portray his epic win? He was a nomadic Biblical scholar from a distant land, with a hairdo much like mine but blond- an amazing anachronism for the beginning of the 1800s -and he had this sweet beard that was HUGE, like Karl Marx. The beard was also blond. He's like a scene Moses with blond hair, but eight feet three inches high and in a period suit. Now, Jones was learned in Scripture and quickly crushed the judgemental glances given by our forefathers by his faith. He suggested taking ideas from the Bible. God sang praise of a powerful and just King, but America had swept the planets of all star systems with their democratic government. A compromise was built on the power of veto. Much like God has the final say, so too the heads of state. A multi-branch system with thin seperation of power was instated. Relying heavily on religion, this new government gave immense power to the heads of state- the Kings -powers mostly untouched today. The original Constitution also banned alcohol and gave free practice of religion, free speech "within reason", as the Framers put it, the right to keep and bar arms, and most other rights you can find in America, but establishing Christianity as the foundation of government and calling an invocation of the Lord in the Preamble. Prohibition was immediantly agreed by all parties. Slowly, the democractic process of our secular courts and Congress, elected by the people, coupled with the executive branch, appointed, and throwing divorce and alcohol into their own courts appointed, a complex structure was made. This is how we work today. Skillets were suggested when Jones was seen frying some bacon. They were declared currency to protect the mushrooms."

"The Constitution was quickly amended after it was ratified by the present creatures to firstly ban slavery and secondly gay marriage. A third amendment rocketed through establishing the Constitution as binding to the Chancellors. The fourth amendment took their ability to declare war, the fifth made the Holy Marriage Tribunal and Alcohol circuit irrevocable, the sixth created referendums to override court ruling, the seventh created an impeachment process, the eighth banned gambling, and the ninth declared that public officials must adhere to the highest standards of morality or lose their jobs, and the tenth outlined the Great Census. These amendments were ratified immediantly after the Constitution. The eleventh, abolishing public execution, was ratified last."

"However, Jones compassionately gave what we now know as the Chancellary to the turtles and mushrooms alone because of the lots I mentioned. He selected the two he saw wisest and annointed them, like the Prophets of the Old Testament, as rulers over TurtleShroom. The first ever Congress and all courts were appointed by Jones, but elections quickly began after a while, establishing what we now know as TurtleShroom. However, the people were begging for Jones to stay and become an absolute monarch of sorts, beating all powers with total plenary abilities. Jones humbly refused and exited TurtleShroom's new borders, never to be seen again. We named our capital after him."

Jason nodded as he spoke about this. Then he got to religion.

"Now, as for faith history can tell that Puritanism fell apart because it was evil. It transitioned to AnaBaptists and then the modern Southern Baptists, who, by the Twelfth Amendment, became the state religion and thus liable to recieve 0.1% of all federal budget or more. The Thirteenth Amendment banned Satanism and devil worship, the new Pastafarian doctrine, and parody religions. Baptists held an immortal grip over the country, whose presence can be felt now. Look at my cell phone, brother." Jason held the phone out to show him. "Technology was accepted at a later time than other countries, so we practically look like a time capsule. We've been held back in some areas but are ahead in others. However, one thing we didn't skip out on is the army and space. We have flying battleships! They're like your Navy, but they float a few inches above LAND! We have a privatized space program and an excellent military that, as the WA put it, 'can easily deal with any issue, foreign or domestic'! We went into nukes and guns, though novelty weaponry became our strong suit. Our nuclear weapons are still no more powerful than America's 1930s Trinity Test, and our rockets are like America's Saturn V, but still."


"Catholics entered the nation in 1920 or so. At first, the Baptists were very skeptical, but they warmed up to the sacred Church and embraced them. Instead of fighting each other, they fought the anti-Christian presences among them. We befriended the Baptists and have been in stable, mutual cooperation ever since. The Baptists even give ther surplus federal money to the other Christian faithful, us included. That, along with tithes and offerings, keeps the Church and all other churches afloat. God has blessed us with such religious peace."


He smiled but turned to the saddened Cardinal Higgs.


"Your Protestants are hypocrites. If they want to seek revenge for what your denomination did so many years past, they may need to re-examine their hearts. That's not the Christian thing to do! The Protestants need to forgive like Jesus. Think of the Apostle Stephen, who, while being stoned, cried out to Christ to forgive them anyway! If those churches want to do the Godly thing, they need to bury the hatchet and make peace across the aisle. A holy war is anything but! It's for power and money, not God! Think of the earthly Crusades that still burn the Church to this day! Those were just excuses to slaughter Muslims and take Jerusalem for a trophy, pillaging the land and killing Christian dissent, and Jews, too! The Holy Land was bathed in the blood of innocents, yet God and the faithful still forgave! Brother, do not repeat the errors of the past. War is a neccesitty, take it from a conservative state, but civil war is just bloodshed and a coup. You could drop the state religion and have all equal or you could peacefully hand it over to the Protestants, OR you could adopt BOTH FAITHS as state. It wouldn't be serving Two Masters because both worship the sameRisen Savior! Both are Christian! Be like TurtleShroom! Turtles, mushrooms, and humans living in harmony! Look at the differences I have from turtles or mushrooms! Yet, we all pray to Jesus and bow to Him in worship, and we all don't drink alcohol! Find similarities in Jesus, not differences in the carpet or the Baptismal. God may shift His blessing away from the Church in your homeland, but she won't be crushed, because she worships Jesus just like the Protestants. ANYONE who calls in the Name of the Lord shall be saved, and through Christ they are saved! It doesn't matter how he is worshipped, it is that He is worshipped, that those come to Him abd Belive, repenting and believing in Him with a Personal Relationship with God the Father through the Lamb!"

Jason smiled widely.

"Cardinal Higgs, this will certainly not be the end of the Catholic Church in East Keshwik. It may be the decline, but not the end. The Protestants, if they have any compassion, will do what God Himself did on the Cross. Forgive them, for they know not what they are doing, Remember, you're all saved and you're all brothers and sisters in Christ. Here, there is no Greek or Jew, just Christian. Remeber that, and remember what I told you about that. Bless you, Cardinal Higgs, and bless your flock and all Christians in your homeland. Unite and crush that oppressive religion-BANNING third party! Don't let Satan tear apart your churches because of how you dunk or sprinkle, whether you're a bureaucracy or anarchy! Focus in on the external enemy, for Lucifer will be quick to attack your weaknesses among denominations! If you fight amongst your Protestant brothers, Lucifer will sit back and laugh, as you're doing his work for him! Unite and stand opposed to the evils of the world, for as the Apsotle Paul said in Epheisians, this is not a war of flesh and blood, but a spiritual war against the forces of Darkness! Therefore, put on the full Armor of God and whoop his butt! Catholics and protestants alike, stand as one and defend your coutnry from evil! Now, go forth and may God's Will be done where you hail from!"

[Of the Quendi]

OOC: Maybe his holliness should take a look at this http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=53537 perhaps reconciliation with the Thrinian Catholic Church would be in order?

[East Keswick]

Higgs smiled at Icfella's words.

"Yes you are right, but East Keswick is an unusual country; let me explain. East Keswick used to be part of a larger country, a Kingdom, called Keswick. East Keswick was one of seven Duchies in Keswick. They were united in 1740 as all spoke the same language and all shared similar cultures. When these Duchies united they elected a King from the seven Dukes, to be head of state for the newly-unified country. The elected King was from a Duchy who had long been East Keswick's rival. As our constitution was drawn up and time went on, it became clear that the newly-elected King disliked East Keswick. Although we were all from the same country, East Keswickians were seen as an inferior race by the King, who is now known to have been mad. Anyway, this was made worse by the fact that East Keswick was only one of two Duchies that were Roman Catholic, the rest of the Duchies being Anglican. So, in 1878, a new Duke was coronated in East Keswick, which was by now hugely poverty-stricken and weak militarily. This Duke was William Grayson. He had had enough. He had watched his father bow down to the the King and the other Dukes insult him. So, William decided to withdraw East Keswick from the Keswick Union. Immediately, this was met with hostility from the rest of Keswick because East Keswick was the wealthiest Duchy in terms of natural resources. The King of Keswick declaredd war on what he called 'a small breakaway state'. He was wrong; despite being outnumbered 4:1, the East Keswickians fought bravely to defend their independence from the rest of Keswick. After two years of stalemate another Duchy, North Keswick, also declared independence which aided East Keswick's cause. After another two years of fighting, the East Keswick-North Keswick Alliance, finally defeated what remained of the Keswick Union. Both countries annexed huge swathes of territory and became permanent allies."

Higgs looked up, seeing Jason was slightly lost in his talk. Higgs tried to talk slower.

"So by 1882, East Keswick had returned to an independent state. Immediately, Duke William ordered a massive economic plan to be drawn up in which East Keswick could make use of its huge amounts of natural resources. He made East Keswick's national religion Roman Catholicism. Finally, he was the first Duke, inside or outside the Keswick Union, to make his Duchy a democracy. He announced his abosolute powers to be handed over to a democratically elected government, while he would sit as a Constitutional Monarch. This new, democratic state quickly became the dominant economic and military power in Keswick. It enjoyed huge growth as an isolationist. Meanwhile, the Keswick Union continued to fall apart; the King was overthrown by a Communist government in 1910 who executed the rest of the Dukes in the Keswick Union. The Communists were then overthrown by a nationalist regime. That leader died and a civil war erupted. The remaining Duchies finally declared independence, without having Dukes anymore. So they became republics."

Higgs looked at Jason again, the boy was now trully lost. Higgs tried to sum up.

"Basically the situation now is; East Keswick is the most powerful nation of the ex-Keswick Union countries. Of the seven, we are the only remaining Roman Catholic nation (North Keswick became Islamic after a revolution in the 1970s) as well as the only remaining ex-Keswick Union country with a Duke (North Keswick elected a Sultan after the revolution). Now, all this may change with the emergence of the East Keswick Reformed Church. The rest of the Keswicks would love it if we had a change in religion or a civil war because it would mean they could regain some land that East Keswick took from them in the 1880s."

Higgs looked up, hoping Jason understood. He could not tell. Anyway he had a plane to catch.

"Brother Icfella, I wish you good health and a successful future. May God be with you."

Higgs embrace Icfella and almost cried. Could this be the last time he attended a Conclave? He did not known. He picked up his suitcase and walked downstairs, getting into his chauffer driven car where his two bodyguards were sitting from East Keswick's military. The car arrived at the airport and Higgs got out. His plane was waiting for him. He began to climb the stairs onto the plane.

[Tarrentum]

Cardinal Carrero had heard that Cardinal Higgs had finally left for his home. With the conclave coming to an end, Carrero wondered what, if anything, the new Pontiff could do to help the situation with East Keswick. Carrero was sure that the rule of law had to be followed but what about the Church? He finished eating his lunch and stepped into the hall to call up the one man who he knew would be able to deal with these more "worldly" decisions.

"Supreme President, it's Cardinal Carrero."

"My friend! How are you?" the Supreme President seemed generally happy to hear Carrero's voice, which bid well for his questions.

"I am fine Cesare. I hope that Bishop Terelli is doing an admirable job?"

"Admirable? Yes. Is he giving me the advice I need? Well...that remains to be seen. What's this call about? Should you be selecting our new Pontiff?" The Supreme President ended his question with a chuckle.

"Well, unfortunately Mr. Supreme President, I arrived too late for that. My call is concerning more...international issues however."

"Oh?"

"East Keswick has announced they their state religion will move from Catholicism to Protestantism and Cardinal Higgs, their representative to the Conclave, feels that such a change in spiritual politics, if you want to call it such, will lead to vast reprisals from the Protestants."

"Oh dear, such things can never end well," the Supreme President stated with acknowledging remorse in his voice.

"Exactly Cesare. But, it's written into their constitution which makes the whole issue legal, if regretable. I'm calling to see what diplomatic channels you can open to help out, in some way, the situation brewing there?"

"Well," there was a long pause. "Cardinal Carrero I just don't know what can be done. These things happen. I'm not about to start throwing around our very unconsiderable weight to back such constiutionally guaranteed issues. There are always options for their Church. First, I could open up diplomatic channels as you suggest to feel out the mood in their government and possibly their populace. Second, we could ignore what is going on. Third, there is always the option of inciting revolt. But I don't think I'm ready to go that far just yet."

"Yes, I knew our options were limited. Perhaps opening up the diplomatic channel is the best way. It is sad that countries right such inept clauses into state documents in an effort to appease the masses."

"Sometimes Sal, the right thing cannot be done. For once, we must put away the sword and take up the quill. I will talk to you further about this once you return to Tarrentum. How much longer will you be staying?"

"For a couple days at least Cesare. I still have much to do here at the Holy See and hopefully, I could win a meeting with the new Pontiff."

"Well don't stay away too long. May the Glory of the Tarrentum go with you!"

"You also sir." Carrero hung up the phone and shook his head. He wished more could be done but sometimes, a wish is just a wish. He thought of asking Mary for guidance and realized that this would be his best hope for an answer from the Lord. He walked back to his room to pray and mull over the situation laid before him.

[TurtleShroom]

Jason was saddened to watch Higgs go. He was amazed at the bloody past of Kishwick and had trouble grasping the entire idea. He began to pace as he drew his conclusions.


"Clearly," the Cardinal stated to himself, "the Duke's existance is embedded in Catholicism being the state faith and in their tradition. The concept of a Duchy and strong monarchs is a more midieval idea, embedded in older denominations. Said nation is controlled primarily by a democratic Congress, but the Duke's sway is formidable, and he seems to have power irregardless. By swapping faiths, the Protestant goons may choose to throw out the Duchy and organize a new government while they're at it, as they seem largely displeased with their homeland. The Islamic..." Cardinal Icfella shivered. "The Islamic duchy up north would probably run them over in their time of Interregnum. The reason Higgs is so terrified of his life is that if his government collapses, peaceibly or by revolution, that the aggressive goons from other lands will sweep in and kill them all. The commies and Islamics won't treat the Catholic and Protestant Christians too nice, I reckon. This is not a matter of faith preference, but of his homeland's national security!"


Now that he understood, he needed to think of a way to save the country. He went for his cell phone and tried to call Higgs, planning to tell him the exact thing he had just said to himself. He was then going to get the Chancellors involved.

You know, that would make a great story spinoff. The newly re-written national religion inspires the new government to start all over again, deposing of the Duke and beginning to fashion a new regime. Now in an instable state, the other Keshwicks begin to consider an attack. I'd like to have TurtleShroom step in there and try to secure your sovereign!

[East Keswick]

As Higgs climbed the stairs to the plane he heard his ringtone play. He picked his phone up and answered it, it was Cardinal Icfella.

"Yes Jason"

Higgs answered. After he had heard what Jason had to say he replied

"Yes that is correct, apart from the fact that communists are 50 years old. Bar North Keswick, the rest of the Keswicks are ruled by democratic, but still corrupt, governments who would like nothing better than for their most powerful neighbour to fall apart from within due to religious - and therefore political - unrest."

Higgs clarified. Upon hearing about the involvement of the Chancellors, Higgs said:

"Yes I know where you are coming from but," he hesitated "I don't see what your country can do apart from-"

Higgs struggled; he did not know the answer. Higgs stood still on the steps. Next to him were his two bodyguards, urging him into the plane. Higgs motioned for them to go inside first. He returned to the conversation:

"Jason, come to the airport now. We can wait; I want you to come to East Keswick with me. That way you can see first hand the situation."

[Rajesthan]

We propose our Archbishop, Cardinal James Karthik for the papal office.

[East Keswick]

While he was waiting for a reply, Higgs was brought a piece of paper by a man in a suit. It was a telegram that was several days old, but Higgs had not been able to access it due to the Conclave. It was from Duke Simon Grayson himself:

CARDINAL HIGGS,

THE SITUATION IN EAST KESWICK GROWS WORSE EVERY DAY. THERE ARE PROTESTS BY PROTESTANTS OUTSIDE CATHOLIC CHURCHES AND EVEN MY PALACE. THE PRIME MINISTER AND THE REST OF THE GOVERNMENT ARE STRUGGLING TO MAINTAIN CALM - MANY PEOPLE IN LEEDS HAVE FLED TO THE COUNTRY, FEARING VIOLENCE. THE REST OF THE COUNTRY SEEMS STABLE, IT IS ONLY IN LEEDS THAT THESE PROTESTS HAVE TAKEN PLACE BUT I FEAR THEY COULD SPREAD. THE LEADING CARDINALS HERE HAVE MET, INCLUDING YOUR FRIEND CARDINAL NEIL KILKENNY. THEY TRIED TO APPROACH THE PROTESTANTS BUT THEY REFUSED, SAYING THAT THE CATHOLIC CHURCH WAS ANCIENT AND ITS CLERGYMEN ALL CORRUPT. THIS IS THE FINAL WORD YOU WILL HEAR FROM ME UNTIL THE SITUATION IS APPEASED. I AM FLEEING THE CITY AND TAKING SHELTER IN A TOP-SECRET LOCATION TO ENSURE MY FAMILY'S SAFETY. I PRAY THAT THE SITUATION CAN BE APPEASED

YOUR DEVOUT LEADER,
DUKE SIMON GRAYSON

Higgs began to shake as he finished reading the telegram, still holding the phone in his hand, waiting for a reply from Jason.

[Tarrentum]

Carrero had just finished his suplication and was walking towards the dining hall once again when he heard Cardinal Jason Icfella talking on his cell phone to the recently departed Cardinal Higgs. He didn't mean to eavesdrop but on Icfella's mention of the Chancellors he was intrigued. Quite possibly Icefella, though young, would know a way where the Tarrentian government, and Church, could help the East Keswickian Church.

Obviously I feel that a spinoff RP would be a great follow-up to the conclave and thought that this is where EK was heading from the start of his vein of RP. I'd be willing to take part in whatever may come.

[TurtleShroom]

Jason replied.

"Unfortunately, politics aren't my specialty. Remember, I'm a street-level bureaucrat in the Congregation for the Evangelization of the Peoples' non-human department, not a miracle worker. However, I will get in contact with a creature that can help you. I'll come with you nonetheless."


Jason hung up and scuttled out of the holy cathedral. A ritzy vehicle welcomed him, and he explained that he needed to get to the airport ASAP. The driver nodded and took him there towards Cardinal Higgs.

From here, we're going to wait for East Keshwick to create the spin-off RP thread for his country.

[The Holy See and Curia]

OOC: Maybe his holliness should take a look at this http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=53537 perhaps reconciliation with the Thrinian Catholic Church would be in order?

This matter will be referred to the new Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

[Of the Quendi]

OOC: Maybe his holliness should take a look at this http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=53537 perhaps reconciliation with the Thrinian Catholic Church would be in order?

This matter will be referred to the new Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Good. Who is that?

[East Keswick]

Jason replied.

"Unfortunately, politics aren't my specialty. Remember, I'm a street-level bureaucrat in the Congregation for the Evangelization of the Peoples' non-human department, not a miracle worker. However, I will get in contact with a creature that can help you. I'll come with you nonetheless."


Jason hung up and scuttled out of the holy cathedral. A ritzy vehicle welcomed him, and he explained that he needed to get to the airport ASAP. The driver nodded and took him there towards Cardinal Higgs.

From here, we're going to wait for East Keshwick to create the spin-off RP thread for his country.

Outside the plane, Higgs saw Jason arrive. He climbed the stairs and they embraced before both walking inside, taking their seats and flying off to East Keswick. Inside, Higgs spoke:

"Now Jason, I have been away for 2 weeks from East Keswick so I am not sure what the situation is like. When I left everything was ok but 2 weeks is a long time in a religious revolution."

OOC: From now on, anyone wanting to participate in this storyline of the East Keswick Church being overturned, please use this thread: viewtopic.php?f=5&t=54072

[Xirnium]

Decree of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on the Schism of Charles Rouan

[Regina Caeli]

OOC: Sorry to reply so late, my life was busy.

IC: Though hesitant at first because the new Pope was supported by Cardinals whom Istvan found suspicious, he quickly warmed up to the new Pope Clement anf was pleased by the choice. He thought to himself "who am I to second guess the Holy Ghost?" and Cardinal Istvan returned to his mother country to join in the excitement of his fellow Catholics eager to get to know their new pontiff.

OOC: Maybe his holliness should take a look at this http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=53537 perhaps reconciliation with the Thrinian Catholic Church would be in order?

This matter will be referred to the new Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Perhaps that person should confront the Church in TurtleShroom's use of invalid matter for communion since the faithful there are forced to worship grape juice rather than Jesus.

[Ambalieva]

I welcome your concern, Regina Caeli. I hope I’m not treading on Pantocratoria’s toes when I inform you that the Holy Father is aware of these suggestions and that the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, with its preoccupation for intervening where theories and practices that are either erroneous or dangerous might cause harm to the Catholic faithful, is acutely interested.

[Osthia]

Cardinal Augustine of the Osthian capital, Ostrega, rushed in and apologized for being late. "Please tell me, what are we discussing as of now?"

[The Resurgent Dream]

((OOC: Sorry, Osthia. The Conclave is already complete.))