[Video]

[mismanagement]

[Not long after this.

At first glance, it appears to be Maketh holding the phone. It's her usual uniform, perfectly ironed, hair pinned up in a severe bun. She's standing outside the guardpost, rifle at her side. Everything looks as it ought to except for a single detail. The blue sash that all the guardsmen wear as a symbol of their position is nowhere to be seen.

Oh, and ignore the spray of blood across her chest. That's not important at all.]

Hello, citizens. I fear this experiment in democracy has gone on a little too long. It's high time to dispense with the nonsense and remember where we ought to stand. And what we are.

[She smiles.]

You needn't worry. The Empire loves all his children. All he asks is your loyalty.

[She pauses, glancing back at the guardpost.]

I'm terribly sorry about the mess, of course. But civilization always comes with a price. A gesture was necessary.

[Her tone hardens.]

Guardsmen, report in immediately. I want this under control.

Comments

[video]

[mismanagement]

[The double shrugs, looking thoughtful.]

Perhaps not. Nonetheless. I hope you won't be foolish. There's no room for that. Not anymore.

[video]

[outstandingbalance]

Was there ever? [Not in Natasha's life.] You might take that advice yourself.

[video]

[mismanagement]

[The double smiles widely.]

You needn't worry. The Empire doesn't abide foolishness.

[video]

[outstandingbalance]

In my experience, empires abide all sorts of foolishness. As long as it doesn't interfere with their power, they don't care all that much if the people on the ground aren't all that clever.

Usually better for the people at the top if they're not.

[video]

[mismanagement]

Then you have merely encountered petty tyrants with delusions of grandeur. Everyone has a purpose. I know mine and will fulfill it with the utmost dedication and honor.

[video]

[outstandingbalance]

[Not very convincing. At least as far as actual accomplishments go.

Stirring shit, well. That's easier.]

Only one way to know that for sure.

[video]

[mismanagement]

[The double smiles brightly.]

How right you are.