Spike's in trouble

[Brian]

I fear any further involvement will jeopardize my position within the Department of Educated Guesswork and humbly admit that the welfare of my staff and myself is my top priority.

I will confess that I have received several suspicious letters claiming that a potential rebellion against the current establishment is underway.  Evidence can be seen by the current situation on Tropico Island and the state of fear that is beginning to grip Puerto Añejo.  The recent disappearances from board members is more than mere coincidence, and although I have no evidence to support my claims, I feel that Spike is involved in this matter as more than an "innocent" victim.

Do not trust Rachel, and keep your eyes on Mr.P.  The truth is out there.

[robbo]

i too have been recieving such things
and i am ready and willing to follow the will of the people.

If the people want rebellion so be it
If they want peace and harmony, so be it

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE ALWAYS THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE

unless of course it interfers with my will

[robbo]

Welcome assembled members

I have taken the direction of having my bereau monitor the situation as i have. After many days of silence, the TSS is ready. LET IT RING FROM THE HILLTOPS-we have the information which is required.
There are several things-some shocking, some unexpected, some just plain weird.

First, it has been revealed that a series of raids by the army in the past week, killing, raping and looting, particularly farms on the outskirts of town, were in fact rebels, dressed up as loyal members of the Tropican Army.
THIS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. We have moved swiftly-arrests of key suspects, planes scouring the forest for rebel hideouts. Also several arrests worldwide, after members of the rebellion fleed overseas.

Delphiakid, you are being hunted. You may run, but you can't HIDE. Oh and if you want to escape me don't come to Australia. The TSS is based there, so why flee there. If you were being chased by the KGB, you wouldn't flee to Russia.


More information will be forthcoming in the next few days. Thank you for your time  

[robbo]

eddy, i was just wondering if the forms have come through for the execution.
My mens trigger fingers are getting itchy

[robbo]

[robbo]

My sources have come up with following exerpt from a security video, which was suspiciously wiped.

However we managed to save this-


It shows who we know know as Delphiakid, fleeing to a waiting plane.

[Delphiakid]

No worries, Robbo, I will not be running from my homeland. And if you and your government cronies want to make more lies on how the Rebels are creating the problems go ahead. The people know who the oppressors and destructors out there are.
I think you are "as mad as a mother-in-law's cat", and you are just tring to find ways to bring me down.
Just remember:
"When you see the Southern Cross for the first time,
You understand just why you came this way.
'Cause the truth you've been  runnin' from is so small.
But it's as big as the promise, the promise of a coming day. "

And that day may be sooner than you think.

[G'day and G'bye]

[caddet]

Rachel, I just thought of something.  You said,

To Mr. Brian:
I really like your stories, but you need to check your facts a little better.  You'll see what I mean soon enough.

If you look at his title, you will see that he is the Director of Educated Guesses.  If he checked his facts too much, that would make him an oxymoron.

[Brian]

Caddet - are you calling me a moron?

Oh, an "oxymoron"... that's different!

Be afraid... be very afraid.

[Eddy]

PRESS RELEASE - for IMMEDIATE publication

Because of the "improprieties" I have observed in the bureacracy and the near collapse of civilized society, I am forced to TEMPORARILY suspend all bureacratic activity until a semblence of order has returned to Tropico.  Rest assured, government activities will resume at an indeterminate date.

I regret the affect this may have on citizen's activities, but I feel that in this dire hour, we need to concentrate on the twin matters of restoring the rightful regime to power and getting the invaders off the island.

In addition, I will personally provide assistance in any way to expedite the restoration of a modicum of order to the island.

tear line here ---

[Brian]

Eddy -

I apologize for using the board as my only means of getting this message to you... but I have no choice.  You must open the lines of bureacratic activity immediately.  Don't put this sort of pressure on yourself or your office.  I can't reveal my sources, but the forces at work here are bigger than either of us.  Don't let yourself become embroiled in something that you can't... I will try to write later.  I hear someone coming.

Remember, in space... no one can hear you scream.

[caddet]

Brian - No moron could write as well as you have done in your posts.  As a writer, myself, I have great respect for anyone with this talent.  And I already am afraid - very afraid.  Got to keep this short, I am being monitored.

[Brian]

Thank you for the compliment, Caddet.  I am enjoying the "Tropico Times" as much, and look forward to your next issue when it is safe for you to produce it.  I'm curious to learn the truth behind all the mysteries currently happening.

I hope that you and Julia are safe, wherever you are.  Remember, oceans rise... cities fall... hope survives

[Eddy]

To the ministers of Tropico:

I have sent a message to the United Nations consulate requesting technical advisors for restoring the true governmental agencies of Tropico.  No response has been forthcoming as of this time.  The Americans have expressed sympathy but offered  little actual aid.  Soviet "observers" have offered to "assist" me in this regard, but at this time I do not feel it would be prudent to accept their services, especially in light of the recent events.

Because of Brian's most reasonable request, I have taken it upon myself to re-establish the most vital functions of government bureaucracy.  Because of the ongoing troubles, governmental functions are temporarily being located at my private villa.  Fortunately, by using my own personal assets I have obtained the services of known loyal Tropicans who are being supplanted by the generousity of Mr. P who has lent me six tanks to assist in maintaining peace.

At the moment, full efforts are being made to restore the financial markets and re-open official communication channels with foreign embassies.  In addition, basic supplies and necessities are being doled out on an as needed basis.  The citizens seem to be cooperating as well as can be expected, but there is a long way to go.

I will naturally keep you informed as to my progress.

Your obedient servant,

Eddyatwork

[caddet]

Eddyatwork - Based on your co-operation with Brian, I am assuming that you refer to restoring order to the island of Tropico, under the Mr.P regime.  That would make Brian the Director of Educated Guesses. That would include Spike as the Secretary of the Navy, and myself as the Secretary of the Press and Public Information.  If that is the case, you must give me some assurance that this is your aim.  Then, you will have the formidable backing of Web Enterprises at your disposal.  I await your reply with adequate assurances of the direction of your pursuit.

[Eddy]

Yes, that is indeed correct.  I have been somewhat vague out of necessity of ensuring which way the wind is blowing, I mean, ensuring that my base of operations is secure.

[Brian]

Earthquake Strikes Puerto Añejo
Dozens Injured At Resort

PUERTO AÑEJO (AP)  An earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter Scale shooke the tiny Caribbean Island of Puerto Añejo this morning.  Although no fatalities have been reported, mass destruction has taken it's toll on the once popular resort attraction.  Red Cross and Coast Guard officials are on their way to the island loaded with food and medicine donated from various U.S. locations.

At approximately 3:57 AM EST, a quake shook the small island, causing extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.  The luxury resort "Emerald Isle" was hardest hit, with hundreds of guests being evacuated to red cross shelters set up in the downtown shopping district.  

A 45 foot high tidal wave, apparently caused by the quake itself, struck the island's harbor twenty-five minutes after the earthquake subsided, but no injuries have been reported.  The cruise ship Neptune, which was docked in the harbor as part of the cruise's seven day itinerary, left just before the wave hit.  Two Royal Caribbean vessels are rerouting around Puerto Añejo as a precuation.

In a related story, the cruise ship Añejo Sunset arrived in New York early this morning.  The ship left Puerto Añejo Wednesday evening, serving as a summit location for the members of the "Mr.P Cabinet".  Board members, including the Director of Educated Guessing, a Puerto Añejo native, were on board the ship to discuss the mysterious circumstances surrounding a cave-in on Tropico Island.  Tropico has been in a state of martial law and has been closed to all trade and tourism for the past week.

The Director of Educated Guessing and his staff boarded a private jet at Kennedy International Airport shortly after arriving in New York and are on their way back to the island.  The headquarters of the Office of Educated Guesswork suffered significant damage in the quake, and it is unknown at this time if any records have been lost.  No information about the mysterious summit meeting aboard the Añejo Sunset has been disclosed, but the cruise ship will depart for Bermuda on Tuesday.

[caddet]

Very good, Eddyatwork.  I will dispatch a memo to my staff with the approptiate instructions.  But now it seems that we have another problem.  I will attempt to determine if the story of the Puerto Anejo is true, or just a diversionary tactic.  In additioin, I look for Spike to make a personal post before the end of the day today (Sunday).
We notice that a move is afoot to oust the journalist in this week's survivor voting.  We will take this as an opportunity to demonstrate the far-reaching influence of Web Enterprises.  Dictators and others take notice.  Web Enterprises has targeted the Female Rebel for this week's voting.  We wish to inform PopTop Brent that this in no way reflects on our respect for him, or his position.  We hold the highest regard for anyone involved in bringing us this new game.  But we feel that to target any other character would not adequately demonstrate just how formidable a power we are.  Please accept our apologies, in the event we are successful.  We also apologize to Rachel.  Gender has nothing to do with our decision.  We simply needed to select the most popular character for an adequate demonstration.

[caddet]

From the desk of Caddet

To:  All Department Heads
Re:  Assistance to Mr.P Regime

This is to inform all department heads that Web Enterprises will render whatever help is necessary to assist in the re-establishment of the Mr.P Regime of Tropico.

Chief of Security, please dispatch security teams to assist with this objective.  One team should be sent to Eddyatwork's private villa, and another to the Department of Educated Guesses.  Also be prepared to provide security for other cabinet members, as they return to the island.  I expect you to monitor activities from the Velvet Web, and keep me posted.

Chief Operating Officer, I suspect we will also need engineering support at the earthquake site.  Since the company's Chief Engineer is still at the caved in mine, his staff should be placed at the disposal of Brian, the Director of Educated Guesses.

Chief Financial Officer, I have estimated that we can divert $5M from investment income accounts to help with the recovery.  These funds are to be made available on an as needed basis.  I trust that you, working with the Chief of Security, can determine genuine needs, and see to their funding.

All others should remain in a heightened state of readiness.  As Mr.P has need, we will have help.

Thank you for your co-operation,
Caddet

[Eddy]

The parrots in the trees are awfully restless.  I hope that there are no aftershocks to the quake.  In my college classes (before I went to government training academy), I learned that the aftershocks can be worse than the initial quake.

My office will attempt to provide assistance, but resources are stretched dangerously thin.  In addition, because of the continuing turmoil, I must remain at the villa where there are fairly strong defenses.  

I am also dispatching yet another plea to the United Nations for aid in light of this tragedy.

I have received a personal note from the American ambassador which basically stated his sympathies with us, but he cannot get involved in any official capacity.

My plea to the United Nations for assistance in restoring Mr. P to power has been answered by individual nations, but no joint efforts are being made at this time.  A listing of the aid from the individual follows:

United States: Good wishes for our success and an offer to have lunch someday, my treat.  

USSR: As many "observers" as we would like, plus a case of vodka which was sent to me personally.  (this offer has been unilaterally declined and the vodka was used by some of my staff to celebrate an impromptu Mardi Gras day.)

Great Britain: A case of HRX-1014 forms (Form to acquire permit for football uniforms from corporate sponsors in Wales.)  This has been accepted by myself, although I have to question their motives as we already have 12 cases of these forms and have only ever used three sheets in our history.

France: A rather elegant table setting for 8.  Silver.  (This has been accepted and is being held in trust by myself until Mr. P is back at the palace.)

Japan: A small portable diesel generator.  (This is currently being used at my villa to power the makeshift base of operations and a small emergency shelter and hospital.)

Canada: a briefcase stuffed with money.  (this has been converted into gold and is being used to pay soldiers in the absence of the payroll system.  Total value estimated at roughly 12 American dollars.)

Mexico: a planeload of ponchos emblazoned with "We kicked Santa Ana's butt at the Alamo"  (I believe this are genuine antiques from the Alamo that were captured during some battle or other.  I've forgotten.)

Liechtenstein: a postcard with a picture of a castle. (I've taken this for my personal office.  Hope no one minds.)

Vatican City: a large number of votive candles.  (These have been forwarded to the various religious officials of Tropico for use as they may see fit.)

We have received many kind words of support, but as this list shows, other countries are simply not willing to assist us in any practical way.

Perhaps when all is said and done, I could take advanatage of the offer of a cabinet position and be minister of foreign affairs?  That is if no one else is already fulfilling this capacity?

Your obedient servant,

Eddyatwork

[Delphiakid]

Between the quake, the assasination attempt, the government, and (most importantly) my latest project which is behind schedule, I will not have as much time to post here.
However,
I will continue to attack the Government lies, and try to get the release of Spike, who is being held by you guys (I do not care what you say, I still have not seen him publicly).
That, and I also believe I know who "Rachel" is (I am waiting for him to reply and fess up to me so I do not humilate him in front of you guys).
That's right, I am calling you out, Rach. Just reply to that "Instant Message" I gave you, and no one will know.
I noticed, Eddy@work, you did not include Germany in your "international house of excusecakes".
Is that because you are scared of Die deutsche Hilfe der Umdrehung?
Es gibt die aus dort diesem Dosenhilfengebrauch mit der Umdrehung.  Gerade treffen Sie Ihre Entscheidung.
So we will know if he is friend or foe, now.
And hopefully you will, too.
Becaue we have "fins to the left, and fins to the right" and [someone has become] the only bait in town.
Have fun.
[returns to the depths of strain]

[Mr.P]

With a State of Emergency called, following the EarthQuake, all Tropican's - with no regard to political leanings - are being asked to pull together in this time of need.

I have received word that surplus grain in the US, along with the ships to transport it, (given the absence of our Chief of Naval Forces) are being provided forthwith.

Further, the army has cancelled all leave and are tasked with setting up emergency shelters, pending rebuilding of the previously planned apartment blocks, by the 1st and 2nd Engineer's Corp.
Shopkeepers have been asked that, in order to prevent rationing whilst arrival of the grain is awaited, that prices remain stable and no attempt be made to capitalise from this disaster.

To assist the speedy recovery of injured Tropican's, the churches will be used (it is hoped with the blessing of Padre_Matthias and Beesting) to add to the existing hospital system.

The national football team (under the tutelage of Kendahl) has been requested to hold a charity match, so that those landowners and business owners can be seen to contribute back to the community which have continued to work their farms and shops. This is in thanks, part due to the armies efforts at ensuring homes are provided for the homeless forthwith and the Tropican's own spirit to fight on. All residents have at least shelter within tented communities; it is thought only 10% of the nation's population remains under canvass at this moment.

The government is concerned at the continued absence of the valiant miner 'Spike', whose whereabouts remain unknown. In this moment of need the Government asks that Spike come forward from hiding, if he is able; or that those holding him relinquish Spike allowing him to return to his family, who are eagerly awaiting his return, as is all of the island of Tropico.

It is expected that within 48 hours grain will have arrived from the US, prefabricated houses close to construction and health, electricity and water restored to a standard which, whilst below normal, will provide all Tropican's with enough for the long-term rebuilding to commence.

May I praise the spirit of all Tropican's in this time of need, your steadfastness throughout remains a potent symbol to all.

[CafeDave]

Mr.P, I echo your sentiments regarding Spike and hope he will be soon be delivered safely back to Tropico.  We desperately need a strong Secretary of the Navy to repel the attacking Pirates facing the Survivor contestants at this very moment.  Spike, we need you!!  

[Brian]

My friends -

The situation in Puerto Añejo is far worse than was originally reported.  The island is in a state of utter chaos.  Tourists crowd the only remaining dock in Añejo Harbor in a vain attempt to escape the island on one of the few freighters to survive the tidal wave which struck after the earthquake.  And now, reports of pirates off our shores, compounded with the ever increasing Russian presence, has left our government no choice but to declare a state of martial law.  A media blackout has been announced, and is effective immediately.  A minimal amount of electricity has only recently been restored, and communications cannot be made except for random transmissions.  

We appreciate your support and offer for aide, but feel that the best course of action right now is to evacuate all non-residents from the island immediately.  Food and water will be accepted but we cannot ensure the safety of foreign military powers, especially during the heightened state of paranoia brought on by the situation on Tropico island.  Medical emergencies are being transported by helicopter to Puerto Rico and Miami, and as of this writing there are still no fatalities as a result of the earthquake.

We ask that you help to keep Puerto Añejo free from takeover.  The pirates that threaten the Caribbean threaten us even more, since we are in a weakened state.  My staff and I will remain here until the crisis is over, and as lines of communication become available, I will report on the situation here.

Good luck to us all -
Brian
D.O.E.G.
Puerto Añejo

[Eddy]

Very little to report.

Things have seemed to calm down around the villa, but little progress is being made because of the uncertainties of the moment.  On the positive side, no further sliding is happening.

Will report later.  Must sleep!