CORNELLIAN EMPIRE NEWS (closed, Region Only)

by **Jedoria** » Sat Jul 04, 2015 1:00 pm

Duke Condemns Terrorist Attack In New Othman

STRANA MECHTY - Calling it a 'despicable act carried out by cowards", Duke Victor Răceanu harshly condemned the recent attack on the Altinay nightclub in downtown New Ankara, where successful members of the growing Othmani economy have been gathering in celebration since the birth of Othmani democracy. The attack was a dual-blast incident, with the initial bomb killing at least 65 people and wounding at least 79 other innocent bystanders. A second explosion was almost certainly intended to target first responders.

Already a radical Islamist group called "Vengeance of Allah" claimed responsibility for the attack, and listed a surprisingly lengthy set of demands to be met, lest more attacks be carried out. The Othamani Government has yet to speak publicly of the event, but the New Ankara Gazette joined others in insisting the Othmani people do not let themselves be cowered by the terrorist group. In addition, reporter Aya Gundogan urged citizens to continue to focus on peace and prosperity, and rebuilding New Othman as a modern day democracy.

In light of recent terrorist attacks in Adiron, Răceanu stressed greater security measures must be implemented in order to ensure the same does not happen to the Confederation. In addition, the Duke expressed solidarity with the Othmani Government, and pubicly vowed the Confederation was fully behind the Republic in light of the attacks, and promised support against other groups that threaten to destabilize New Othman.

"Democracy and personal freedom must be safeguarded at every corner of the world. We cannot let the actions of cowards weaken the strong."

by **Jedoria** » Mon Jul 06, 2015 10:55 pm

Trade Agreement Reached Between New Othman, Jedoria

Tariffs lowered for popular imports and exports

STRANA MECHTY - Minister of Commerce Bogdan Avramescu confirmed today that the Confederation of Jedoria has recently concluded talks with the Republic of New Othman concerning a trade agreement and further cooperation between the two states. The aim of the talks were, according to Avramescu, "further development the economies of both nations, and offer Jedorian support in further stabalizing New Othman."

New Othman, facing a rising threat of terrorism from two rival terrorist groups, the Black Scimitar and the Vengeance of Allah, has been stated by some observers to be at risk of falling once more into the hands of authoritarian organizations. However, the Minister was quick to point out that the Confederation fully planned on working with the Othmani government to eliminate the threat of terrorism from within. "Securing the stability of New Othman will become a priority of the Confederation. Friends don't let friends fall to terrorism."

As for the trade agreement, tariffs were lowered by both sides on expected products. Noticeable reductions include Jedorian imports of tobacco, steel, chai and poppyseeds, while on the Othmani side, iron, machinery, coal and lithium all took hits. In particular was Jedorian focus on securing a steady supply of rubber from the Republic, which looks to become one of Jedoria's growing friends in the region.

The Minister declined to state the extent to which Jedoria would assist New Othman in eradicated the terrorist cells operating in the Republic, but affirmed that "the necessary measures will be taken to support the proper government."

In other news, the Peace and Harmony Party garnered the most votes in the New Edomite national elections, sparking curiosity as to what lies in the future for the Allied States.

by **Allamunnic States** » Tue Jul 07, 2015 7:06 am

Allamunnic States Daily
Entertainment - Book Review

They were anything but Regular
New book profiles the players and coaches that built a dynasty
by Hanna Braanur

Over the last twenty years, the Allamunnic national gridiron team has gone from a group of plucky underdogs to the greatest dynasty that international girdiron has ever seen, winning five championships in six finals berths over the span of a decade, and last missing the playoffs at World Bowl XI. There are fans who have grown up without remembering the Allamunnic team as anything but a world gridiron powerhouse.

But many of us do remember that the current state of affairs once looked anything but inevitable. In fact, it was a long process that saw the Allamunnic program turn the corner from being an underachieving all-star squad to the professional juggernaut it is today. And there was a handful of individuals who were instrumental in that transformation.

Enter Aldryk Mueller's The Stalwarts, a book detailing that transformation, and the players and coaches who built the most-successful national gridiron program almost from scratch. The story, meticulously researched and using interviews conducted for that research wherever possible, is a concise, conversationally-written piece that examines a period that many of us remember, to a depth that has not previously been available to the public.

Mueller's journey through the sixteen year period containing the aftermath of World Bowl VIII through the team's most-recent championship at World Bowl XXV is dealt with chronologically, starting with the story of the hiring of late head coach Stevan Vaalburger, moving onto the decimated coaching staff that gave the opening to Ryan Smart, and entering a new era under current head coach Baeryk Vaalburger.

Throughout, Mueller follows the stories of the core players (and, in many cases, later coaches) that laid the foundation for this dynasty and became it's most venerated players. Naturally, pride of place in this litany of familiar faces is given to World Bowl MVPs and Allamunnic legends Honorius Waalturs and Elias Mourner, with the group filled out by QB Maarkus Daalhulm, HB Haanryk Staalburg, TE/WR Willy Theodur, OG Hanrik Wurfytur, Waalturs, DE Daanyl Rikkenbaakur, DE Archie Wagner, DT Theodur Laansur, Mourner, FS Belle Margusunn, and K Phillipa Demirici.

What readers get is a thoughtful and intimate look at some of the most beloved athletes in Allamunnic history (at least of recent years), as well as new perspectives on the team that has captured the nation's loyalty. Released just in time for the 20th anniversary of the Allamunnic National Gridiron team, The Stalwarts is an excellent read for diehard and casual fans alike.

by **Jedoria** » Thu Jul 09, 2015 3:03 pm

The Tharkad Times

DuKe Approves New Refinery as Jedoria begins Petroleum Byproduct Manufacturing

STRANA MECHTY - Duke Victor Răceanu of Jedoria confirmed this morning that the Confederation would begin construction of a new oil refinery at a a yet undisclosed location. The intention of the effort, though not explicitly stated, is widely accepted to be Jedoria's attempt to begin production of it's own petroleum byproducts, noticeably plastics and related items. Due to recent economic developments throughout the region, the Confederation is now seeking to look inward to produce many of the products daily Jedorians use in their daily lives.

The construction, while admitted as a wise investment for the future, was criticized by some members of the High Council as yet another increase in the Government's budget, which has grown to record sizes in the past several decades. Nevertheless, the Duke confirmed that the building will go on. In light of a recent trade agreement with the Republic of New Othman, and overtures to the Federation of the Allamunnic States, the Confederation appears eager to expand it's economic influence and promote growth on the home front to better prepare Jedoria for the future.

In other news, the Allamunnic film Onnerian Holiday has proven popular in major cities across Jedoria, already earning 1,522,600 Credits at the box office.

by **New Edom** » Fri Jul 10, 2015 2:10 am

New Edomite National News Report

Opening bars of Pictures at an Exhibition play as a globe spins with pins popping up on various points of the world. Split screen images of natural disasters, celebrations, military actions, elections, royal ceremonies, celebrity events are showin, occasionally with New Edomite news anchors talking about them, and then fades to a news desk.

A raven haired woman with olive skin, dark brown eyes with a rosebud mouth, a slim nose and a statuesque figure sat behind a news desk with the New Edomite flag imposed over a silhouette map of the Allied States of New Edom behind her. “Good evening,” she said, looking up with a smile. It was clear that above the waist at least she wore nothing but a gold cross on a chain, though her image was pixelated for those nations censoring such an appearance. “I’m Lavinia Tuller, and this is the International News.

"Earlier this week the Allied States of New Edom signed the International Union agreement. This organization is devoted to mutual economic, diplomatic and defense support. With New Edom's extensive military experience, it seemed only natural according to sources that the Allied States be courted for the position of Minister of the Military within the organization.

"King Elijah IV along with senior government officials has been in a series of conferences over the last week as the new organization establishes such things as trade agreements, human rights agreements and mutual defense agreements. One of these is to be the use of Sterry Naval Port as a refueling and air station for members of the Union.

"Another is the appeal on the part of the small nation of Syara for help against a wave of terrorist attacks. Tim Stanton has the story."

(Cut to stocky, darkly tanned weathered looking Tim Stanton, wearing a bush hat, jacket and pullover with a foreign city as a backdrop)

"Hello Lavinia. Terrorist attack in city of Gradku, Commonality of Syara, several people were killed and the office building of the mayor critically damaged by explosives.

"Responsibility for the terrorist attack was claimed by the Sajderi Liberation Army. According to government sources in Syara, more terrorist actions are anticipated."

(camera pans showing glimpses of military roadblocks, soldiers on patrol establishing checkpoints. Pan back to Stanton.)

"The terrorists as the name implies are of the Sajderi people, they are a south-Slavic people noted for their olive skin and Muslim faith. They form about 10% of the population of the Commonality.The International Union's response is not yet known, but it is certain that New Edom will be leading it."

"Thank you Tim, and our prayers go out to the people of Syara and the victims of the latest terrorist attack. And we'll back after these messages, including a message from 100% Pure Beef--meat you can count on."

by **Jedoria** » Fri Jul 10, 2015 12:04 pm

Jedorian Armed Forces On Shopping Spree

Nuclear Subs, fighter jets, armored vehicles, oh my!

Written by Anton Zamfir

STRANA MECHTY - The Jedorian Confederation already has a reputation as a big spender when it comes to the armed forces. A 700,000 strong standing army backed by another 600,000 reservists requires a lot of funding. And when you factor in the Navy and Air Force, you get a rather large bulk of the Government's budget. Now in fairness, there are plenty of nations out there with budgets larger than Jedoria. But why does Jedoria need all of this? The last war we fought as a nation was 40 years ago. Since then, we've generally retained the same levels of forces. So why are the Armed Forces suddenly gearing up with powerful, and expensive, weaponry?

Just yesterday, the Confederate Navy confirmed the acquisition of not one, but two Neptune-class Ballistic Missile Submarines. These kind of subs are designed to fire powerful arrays of cruise missiles at important targets, in other words, you don't go around stamping out piracy like with these. No, these kind of subs are built for war, offenisve, aggressive war. And that's not all; the Navy has also reportedly placed an order for a Quiver-Class Arsenal Ship, a vessel that's literrally just a big hull with a fuckton of missiles to launch, used to destroy strategic targets like airfields, RADAR centers, or shipyards.

And if that wasn't enough, if rumors are to believed, the Navy also wants to scrap it's Zalmoxis-class medium carriers and replace them with larger versions. What's with this sudden explosion of activity? Last time I checked, the Confederate Navy existed for the purpose of defending Jedoria's trade routes and coastlines, not force projection. Someone should tell the Admiralty that.

And it's not just the Navy. The Air Force announced it had bought 24 Adiran made F-39 Ravens, 5th Generation fighters, and more were planned to be adopted. With the Dassault Rafale relegated to a naval fighter, and the F-16 being phased out in favor of the Saab Gripen, it appears that the Air Force is preparing for major action as well. Likewise, the Air Force Central Command confirmed it wishes to buy several dozen A-10 Close Air Support jets, and furthermore, has bought several reputed "AWACs killers" long range missiles from Adiron as well.

And the Army felt the need to hop in as well, confirming it had bought the production rights to the Patria AMV, another Adiron produced modular vehicle. Among other reports were statements made by the Jedorian Chief of Staff which made it clear the Confederate Army planned on refurbishing many of it's armored vehicles, bringing them up to standard with foreign made counterparts.

Concerned citizens like me have been asking; what's with this buildup? According to Armed Force Central Command Public Affairs Coordinator Filip Ghiță, Jedoria must be able to "defend it's people and nation against potentially hostile state actors that seek to undermine the Confederation". If that's not forewarning, I don't know what is. Regardless, this sudden splurge of spending isn't going to make the region, or Jedoria, any more peaceful, at least not if Central Command remains convinced this is all necessary for some yet unnamed future conflict.

When Victor Răceanu ran for Duke in 2012, he made it clear he aimed to ensure continued "Peace and prosperity" across the Confederation. Well Mr. Duke, if you keep spending billions on all these fancy toys for the military to play with, we're not going to be very prosperous, and I don't see how ballistic missile submarines and long range air-to-air missiles are helping the peace. But of course, if you ask, the Government will be sure to tell you how this all for the greater good of Jedoria.

It appears Jedoria is going full speed ahead, just in the wrong direction.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Fri Jul 10, 2015 12:37 pm

Gimme News

July 10, 2015

Emperor of Ghant set to fight Bonesnap in GFC event
Charity Event set for September 19, 2015, international PPV event

(Ghish, Ghant)- Emperor Nathan IV of Ghant and five-time heavyweight GFC champion Bodo “Bonesnap” Sangui are set to square off at a charity fight night event in Onmutu on September 19, 2015. The event is officially named "GFC 191: Nathan IV vs. Sangui."

His Imperial Majesty and Sangui will enter the ring in the Grand Point Arena. The event is expected to be sold out, and social media has erupted, billing the event as the “fight of the century.”

The main event is raising money for the Ghish-based organization Knockout Cancer, which raises money for cancer research and treatment. The Empress of Ghant is major patron of the charity, having lost her own mother, Lady Elizabeth Mutu, to breast cancer in 2012.

Corporate sponsorships for the event range from $50,000 to $500,000. Organizers say the event is expected to raise upwards of $100,000,000 between endorsements, ticket receipts and pay-per-view orders.

Ahead of the fight, the Emperor and Sangui participated in an official weigh-in Thursday night. His Imperial Majesty, 27 years old, weighed in at 205 pounds. Mr. Sangui, 28, weighed in at 208 pounds.

In a joint press event promoting the event, the Emperor and Sangui hyped the event while exchanging barbs, with Commissioner David Urzogui present to talk about not only the historic nature of the event, but also the potential it has to draw an international audience.

“The match will be available internationally,” Urzogui said. “There is great potential to expose GFC to an international audience, and for a good cause in Knockout Cancer.”

September’s mega-fight was more than five years in the making, and issues with drug testing and a split of the purse, as well as the Emperor organizing his promoters, prevented the bout from happening already. But while some fans might think that the fight happened a half-decade too late, the Emperor and Sangui benefited financially from making the public wait.

At least $150 million, and possibly more, can be earned from the fight for charity. If they had fought in 2010, the total might have estimated $75 million, adjusted for inflation. “We had six years of teasing the public,” Arni Ologai, the Emperor’s main promoter said during the press conference. “You couldn’t buy the publicity.”

Sangui is consistently the highest paid athlete in Ghantish sports, and for good reason. His record is 17-2, and his career earnings in excess of $600 million. The Emperor, meanwhile, is entering his first career fight.

“I am excited for the opportunity to compete in the octagon against Bonesnap in front of an international audience. It will be great fun to show everyone what I got, and let everyone see me in only fighting shorts,” the Emperor said with a smile.

Sangui, meanwhile, at one point during the press conference said, “this will be the only time in my life that I get to lay my hands on the Emperor. I won’t let the opportunity go to waste.”

The event has also drawn significant interest among betters, with the line currently naming Sangui the overwhelming favorite. Other bets including the Emperor getting knocked out, or tapping out in the first round, are also high.

Other News
Dead Raccoon tribute in Ghish
New study shows that oral sex has beneficial health effects
Royal Profile: King Urtzi of Thule

by **New Edom** » Fri Jul 10, 2015 12:52 pm

New Edomite National News Report

Opening bars of Pictures at an Exhibition play as a globe spins with pins popping up on various points of the world. Split screen images of natural disasters, celebrations, military actions, elections, royal ceremonies, celebrity events are showin, occasionally with New Edomite news anchors talking about them, and then fades to a news desk.

A raven haired woman with olive skin, dark brown eyes with a rosebud mouth, a slim nose and a statuesque figure sat behind a news desk with the New Edomite flag imposed over a silhouette map of the Allied States of New Edom behind her. “Good evening,” she said, looking up with a smile. It was clear that above the waist at least she wore nothing but a gold cross on a chain, though her image was pixelated for those nations censoring such an appearance. “I’m Lavinia Tuller, and this is the International News.

"The Confederation of Jedoria's announcement of purchases of a greater array of strategic weapons has a number of people alarmed in our nation's capital.

"Two Neptune-class Ballistic Missile Submarines are among recent purchases by the Jedorians, as well as an arsenal ship and longer range fighters. According to expert analysts at the New Edomite War College, this can only mean preparation for war.

"Concerns about a possible build up against Peregrino's frontier or the northern Etruria Majoran border have been voiced in the National Chamber of Deputies, and a meeting was held with representatives of the National Defense Committee and officials from the Ministry of Defense to discuss preparedness. The Foreign Minister however has urged calm, stressing that a conversation will be held between himself and Victor Raceneau to find out the reason for the Jedorian military buildup.

"In the meantime, according to General Jonathan Unwerth, the Chief of the General Military Staff, "...our armed forces are ready for anything; we've never been more on top of the game. To quote an old saying, we don't want to fight, but by Jingo if we do, we've got the ships, we've got the men, we've got the money too!""

" And we'll back after these messages, including a message from Sweetblue--the best sunblock for the true Edenist..."

by **Hittanryan** » Fri Jul 10, 2015 7:22 pm

FODE Negotiations Stall, Experts Warn of Impending Oil Crisis

Sources in the Department of Energy have confirmed that negotiations with FODE on the embargoes have ground to a halt. Due to an unexpected extension of Imperial leadership of the organization, the expected talks on a permanent settlement have collapsed. Adirans are being advised to prepare for "a substantial reduction in the available commercial fuel supply," along with emergency measures being adopted by the government.

Upon FODE's formation, the government immediately raised concerns about existing embargoes on the Imperium and Urdnotia. Importing fuel from the oil cartel would mean funding nations known to pose a direct national security threat to Adiron. However, attempts at reaching a more permanent solution were blocked by the Imperium in its capacity as Secretary-General of FODE. It was ruled that Adiron negotiating separate trade agreements with individual members would undermine the purpose of the organization. The Curia at the time similarly claimed that Adiron's embargoes were acts of "vengeful economic imperialism" which should be struck down along with "socialist government initiatives and subsidies towards economically unfeasible energy sources."

A temporary accord was reached that allowed Adiron one year to submit alternative proposals which did not violate the FODE charter and come to terms with the remaining members of FODE. It was believed that the rank of Secretary-General was to be held by the Imperium for one year, and it was accurately predicted that they would adopt a hardline stance aimed at dismantling the Adiran oil embargoes outright, precluding any negotiations from the Adiran perspective. Last year, however, the Imperium retained control of the position, leading Adiron to seek a one year extension. Repeated attempts to negotiate were rebuffed on principle, leaving no room to compromise on the embargo issue.

Earlier today, it was announced that due to unrest in New Edom and the Shrailleen Empire and questions surrounding SAEC with Deadora, the Imperium will maintain its position as Secretary-General of FODE for a third year. The government had hoped that once FODE leadership was no longer dominated by the Imperium that more fruitful negotiations would be possible. It further announced that there will be no more extensions, and that Adiron must treat with FODE as a unified trading bloc or not at all.

Experts are warning that if things continue in this way, Adiron will be faced with a serious energy crisis with wide-ranging implications. Gas prices would not only see immediate sharp increases, but the country could even face shortages nationwide. Rationing and speed limits could be imposed comparable to wartime. The costs of all manner of consumer goods would rise from increased shipping and packaging costs, both of which would be impacted by rising costs of fuel and plastics. Air travel will become more expensive, and if shortages occur there could be major cancellations of flights. Even agriculture would be affected as the cost of fertilizer increases.

The news has many on the street worried. "I already can't drive more than twice a week the way things have been," teacher Wanda Larson says. "If it gets a lot worse like they say it's going to, I don't know, maybe I'll just have to sell the car. Not sure how I'll pick up the kids, but we'll have to work something out."

"My parents are on fixed incomes, and they're both too old to work," chef Charles Bauman said. "If we see the price hikes they're talking about, that's coming straight out of their mouth. I'm gonna get squeezed on overhead myself, not to mention I'll have fewer customers in the door every day. FODE's going to screw us. The Imperium's going to screw us. Where's the President in all this?"

Those who jumped on the green energy bandwagon feel vindicated, but the possible impact on the economy as a whole is sobering. "It feels good that despite being one of the "out-of-touch hipster greenies," to quote a Liberal MA a few years ago, I made what turned out to be the more viable long-term choice. I just wish it didn't take something like this to prove it," graphic designer Deb Burnett said.

Others, like systems administrator and reservist Manny Harris, has hope that the storm would pass quickly and lays the blame on the Imperium. "The Imps and the Grunts are calling our bluff. Let's not forget that we only have a problem with two of five members. They're in a minority. If we stop importing oil from all of FODE, that'll hit New Edom, Deadora, and the Shrailleen as well. It'll be the Imps' fault and they'll all know it. Maybe the loss of business will get them to the table, then we'll get this under control."

Hurricane Scarlett to Make Landfall Sunday, Evacuations Underway

Activists Fight for LGBT Rights in New Edom

Terrorist Attack Thwarted on Key Military Base

School Bus Ads Under Fire

by **The Cookish States** » Sat Jul 11, 2015 11:26 am

Cookish News and Happenings

Congress Sways For First Time in Two Years!

Saturday, July 11, 2015

The Progressive Party has officially lost its Senate majority by 8 seats. The Nationalists picked up all 8 in a surprising turn of votes. For the past year, the Progressives have had a successful campaign strategy of "not our business". As such, the Cookish have all but abstained from foreign policy, focusing more on local economies and infrastructure. Despite all of the successes the party has claimed, corruption still plagues it. With even more bribing allegations coming forward against 6 unnamed Progressive officials, the people in many counties have decided to elect a Nationalist once again.

Many are also unsure of Chancellor Soymers chances for re-election in August due to his party's discretions. His only comments on the crisis have been that he "doesn't play minor league ball" (Insinuating that he is above the pettiness of Congress). Other comments he's given were chock full of circular knowledge and reasons on why he is blameless. Then again, he isn't a career politician, could he be telling the truth? Or simply covering his tracks?

Either way, the new Speaker of Congress Noah Grimes has sworn to increase international actions.

"Our nation has seen a massive drop in foreign trade. Our GDP will never show the losses, but the thinning of products on the shelves will. People are making more money because they are buying less. The Progressives have taken away the consumers freedom of choice! Stores are closing, people are losing market diversity, and the Progressives are spreading the profits around the country as though it was their money to begin with. It all changes now. We will re-instate all of our foreign trade, create more jobs, and go back to the days when the Cookish would always stand up when innocents are in peril. The world deserves it."

It seems like a new dawn in Cookish politics.

by **Jedoria** » Sun Jul 12, 2015 12:29 pm

Duke raises concern over Adiran Energy Crisis

STRANA MECHTY - News of the impeding energy crisis in the Republic of Adiron has turned heads here in the Confederation, raising concerns over Adiron's future where the Republic is seriously short of arguably the most significant asset modern nations require.

The Federation of Oil Developing Economies, the coalition of most of the region's major oil producers, have made life difficult for Adiron in recent months. With the Imperium in complete control of handling foreign deals with FODE, Adiran pleas have fallen on deaf ears. The Imperium has thus far blocked any Adiran attempt at deal making, demanding that Adiron trade with the entirety of FODE, which would violate Adiron's current embargo on both the Imperium and Urdnotia.

The Adiran Government has made suggestions it will attempt to investigate the Imperium's continuing stance as Secretary-General of FODE, which normally should be rotated every year. However, political events transpired that prevented such measures from occurring, allowing the Imperium to maintain it's position, and now Adiron is facing a very serious crisis. Without enough petroleum flowing into the Adiran economy, the Republic's economy, one of the largest in Cornellia, could face severe damage.

Duke Victor Răceanu stressed to regional leaders in a public statement that a compromise must be reached. "You cannot force the Republic to support the regimes that have thrice tried to destroy. Not only is that logically insane, it's down right immoral. It's encouraging self harm to an entire nation."

The Duke also warned FODE members of losing Adiran trade as a result of a forced Adiran embargo, and a subsequent down grade of the Adiran economy. "Dollars from the Republic flow into the economies of nearly every nation in the region. They help fund infrastructure products, economic development, and service sector based support. If Adiron is forced to take drastic measures and the economy suffers, so does the region. Adiron's trading value is worth hundreds of billions, if not more. Losing Adiron as a trade partner because they couldn't negotiate a deal is beyond fucking stupid."

Jedoria doesn't seem content to sit out and watch this go by. While not mentioned by the Duke, it was confirmed a deal had been reached between the Confederation's largest oil company, ConfedPetro Incorporated, and the Adiran Government confirming a large purchase of diesel and jet fuel, believed to be for the Adiran Strategic Reserve, intended to keep the Adiran military still functional in a oil dry Adiron.

by **Deadora** » Sun Jul 12, 2015 1:21 pm

News for the People

Deadora To Leave FODE?

Arbiter Leadership Extended Two Years Past Term Limit

Doera Tark
Journalist

Bryn Tegna, Deadora It started simple enough. The Regions major oil producers would come together to pool their resources to better serve customers and develop members' energy sectors. To ensure the organization would promote the best interests of all members, leadership would rotate every single year. What did we get instead? Three years of the Federation of Oil Developing Economies, hijacked by the Imperium of Arbites Materia to evade trade embargoes levied against them for their support of terrorism and previous wars of aggression against the Republic of Adiron. With the threat of an energy crisis looming in Adiron possibly sparking a boycott against the entire organization, FODE has effectively become a weapon in the Curia's trade war against the Republic and jeopardized the economies of all of its members.

Previously the Imperium cited the civil war in New Edom as excuse for its extended leadership. But now there is peace, and the Imps have trotted out a new 'crisis' to defend their uninterrupted term: Deadora's membership in the SAEC. Like the imprisoned wives they keep, the Curia is attempting to dictate Deadora's relationship with the outside world, no doubt in response to a recent Deadoran proposal to the SAEC's Regulatory Commission that enjoys broad support in all members which would grant the Republic of Adiron favoured nation status.

Matriarch of Foreign Affairs Arlenica Nessic provided a government statement. "This extension of Arbites's term as Secretary-General of FODE for a third consecutive year is inexcusable and unjustifiable. The Curia must cooperatively and expeditiously relinquish the position of Secretary-General to a Deadoran representative in accordance with the written charter of The Federation of Oil Developing Economies, to which they are a signatory. If that does not happen, then Deadora will have no choice but to leave FODE and pursue sanctions of our own against the Imperium and its overseas territories."

Other government sources indicated that a Deadoran Secretary-General would bring FODE to the negotiating table with Adiron, and that if Arbites forces Deadora out of the cartel it would be necessary to take a side in the "Cetan Conflict"; the ongoing cold war between Adiron and Arbites.

by **Late Roman Empire** » Sun Jul 12, 2015 9:04 pm

Chalcedon Tribune,
Spurius Coriolanus

The Emperor of the Late Roman Empire, Valerian Augustus, has announced his boldest proposal ever: the Pan-Cornellian Economic Fraternity. The essence of the plan is to create a regional common market or customs union that would, ideally, encompass every nation in the former Cornellian Empire. That there are many potential obstacles to this plan, including FODE, SAEC, and the embargoes against Arbites and Urdnotia, are openly acknowledged by the Lord of the World, but the Emperor has asserted that this proposed economic bloc would provide far more benefits than any smaller-scale customs union or trade agreement.

Valerian Augustus

"We believe that free trade among all nations of this region would strengthen our economies through more economic cohesion, free movement of goods and services, more diversity, and the shared pool of revenue from a common external tariff, which would replace all internal tariffs," the Augustus declared, "and a more integrated regional market would naturally make war even less desirable than before, while peace would become very profitable indeed.'

The Augustus has also called for a permanent peace treaty between the three nations of Ceti, renouncing war among them, stating that, "When such a peace is guaranteed, there can no longer be any barriers to peace and prosperity."

The Emperor has also extended a formal invitation to the heads of state of New Edom, Gloria Regis, Jedoria, and Deadora to confer on a "permanent settlement of all Acheronian territorial disputes between these four states once and for all."

He then appointed a new Legate to Gloria Regis, Lucia Antonia.......

Lucia Antonia, Legate to Gloria Regis

by **New Edom** » Sun Jul 12, 2015 10:07 pm

New Edomite National News Report

Opening bars of Pictures at an Exhibition play as a globe spins with pins popping up on various points of the world. Split screen images of natural disasters, celebrations, military actions, elections, royal ceremonies, celebrity events are showin, occasionally with New Edomite news anchors talking about them, and then fades to a news desk.

A raven haired woman with olive skin, dark brown eyes with a rosebud mouth, a slim nose and a statuesque figure sat behind a news desk with the New Edomite flag imposed over a silhouette map of the Allied States of New Edom behind her. “Good evening,” she said, looking up with a smile. It was clear that above the waist at least she wore nothing but a gold cross on a chain, though her image was pixelated for those nations censoring such an appearance. “I’m Lavinia Tuller, and this is the International News.

"The Adiran oil crisis will probably have a serious effect on the Edomite economy, says National Petroleum Director Darius Estes. According to the Director of New Edom's nationalized petroleum conglomerate, there are 200 million Adiran customers for Edomite produced oil products who may not be buying anymore.

"This is apparently the result of the insistence of the Secretary-General of FODE, an Imperium official, that Adiron buy Urdnotian and Imperium of Arbites oil products. The Empire of Deadora's foreign ministry has claimed that this is in violation of the constitution of FODE and that they are considering leaving the agreement. However some sources at the New Edomite Foreign Ministry suspect that this was planned already in the wake of the advent of SAEC.

"Count Thomas Lalery, the Finance Minister, has said that he intends to meet with senior FODE officials to try to manage the crisis."

Count Thomas Lalery, addressing the Oil, Energy and Resources Committee of the Chamber of Deputies, is seen saying, "I will meet with whoever I must to deal with this crisis. FODE was not created to simply push other countries around; it was created to give nations that are resource rich but service poor a fighting chance economically. I intend to make sure it stays that way."

"The temptation," Lavinia continued, "For nations like the Shrailleeni Empire, Deadora and New Edom will be to continue to offer oil product sales to Adiron on their own, with prices less high than those of the Impierum but certainly higher than sales have been. However the view that the Imperium is New Edom's strongest and most loyal ally may be causing some disagreement about how to handle things at upper levels of government according to some sources."

" And we'll back after these messages, including a message from Bird City Fun World--ride the birdcoaster, see Harry the Bird and try a birdburger dinner, fun for the whole family."

by **Exalted Draconia** » Mon Jul 13, 2015 1:53 pm

Draconeum Herald,
Leonidas Polycarpos

The Council of Five Hundred, a national body that was abolished in 1880, has been reconvened by the Archon, Stylianos Mantarakis, with an apparent legislative program that will formally ratify a new treaty with the Late Roman Empire that makes Exalted Draconia even more independent than it has been in the recent past. The treaty's terms also empower the Council to draft an "Instrument of Governance" which will serve as a national constitution. Both the Treaty of Draconeum, and the rough outlines of the new charter already being stated have rather critical key points that are worth noting:

1. Draconia will become a tributary state and ally of the Empire instead of a protectorate or client-state, as it has been for most of its history.
2. Draconia will exercise more control over its defense and security forces, as well as its police forces. Roman officers will be gradually replaced in command of the Draconian Air Force by Draconian officers. Draconia's armed forces will abandon the legionary system for a regimental model and will take regimental ranks instead of legionary ones. For instance, Prefect Mantarakis has chosen the rank of Colonel Mantarakis.
3. Draconia will have more control over its trade policy to an extent, but it will retain a customs union with the Empire and continue to use the Roman solidus as currency.
4. Rome and Draconia will formally sign and ratify a mutual-defense pact against foreign invaders and common enemies, as well as extradition, travel, etc. accords.
5. Draconia will have its own diplomatic corps fully separate from the Empire's, with Dr. Xander Mavros as its first Foreign Minister. His previous title was Draconian Adjunct to the Magistry of Offices. Draconia will have more control of its own foreign policy, but will be enjoined against any arrangements "adverse to the common interests of Exalted Draconia and the Late Roman Empire."
6. Christianity will have a protected minority status within Exalted Draconia, with the Empire as the recognized protector of Christians' religious freedom. Jews and Muslims will also have certain protections under Draconian law. However, Hellenism will continue to be the official state religion of Exalted Draconia.
7. Missionaries from non-Christian religions to Draconia are prohibited by the terms of the Treaty, and no Christian missionaries in Draconia are permitted to proselytize anyone under the age of 15. No convents are permitted in Exalted Draconia. Jehovah's Witnesses and Christian Science are banned as well.
8. Polygamy will remain legal in Draconia, while being illegal in the Empire, and clerks will have to issue marriage licenses to all men and women regardless of number of spouses. However, churches and synagogues (if from a monogamous branch of Judaism) will not be required to perform weddings of polygamous couples. Close affinity incest (brother-sister, parent-offspring, etc.) will remain illegal in both nations. Homosexuality will remain legal in both nations, but same-sex marriage will remain illegal in both lands and only Draconia will have civil unions recognized by law. Prostitution will remain legal in both nations, but taxed and regulated. Concubinage will remain legal in both nations as well. Necrophilia and bestiality will remain banned in both nations. The ages of consent for vaginal intercourse and marriage in both lands shall now be harmonized as 15, due to "pragmatic realities that have rendered the necessity of formalizing an age of consent in both our civilizations."
9. Public nudity is optional, but not mandatory, in both nations.
10. Radical feminist literature shall be prevented from entering Draconia or the Empire. Efforts will be made to co-ordinate interception of such propaganda.
11. Intermarriage shall be legal between Draconians and Romans, but if the Draconian has a plural spouse, that plural spouse shall only be recognized on Draconian and not Roman soil.
12. All financial documents involving transactions with both nations shall be conducted in both Greek and Latin.
13. Exalted Draconia shall have most-favored nation status in the Empire and vice versa regarding trade.
14. Adiron shall be permitted to retain its naval air station in Exalted Draconia, with the stipulation of no military operations against the Empire.
15. Driving shall continue to occur on the right side of the street in both nations.
16. Both nations shall adopt the metric system.
17. Both nations shall require all citizens to register their handguns, rifles, and other firearms as well as submitting to criminal background checks, training, and psychological evaluations prior to the sale of any firearms in either nation. Neither nation shall sell or market to its own citizens or those of the other any heavy machine guns, grenade launchers, or other serious ordnance.
18. Both nations shall subject firearms and ammunition sales to an excise tax of 5 solidi per box or firearm.
19. Both nations shall practice mandatory vaccination of all citizens for communicable diseases.
20. The Empire provide continued economic, military, and humanitarian assistance to Exalted Draconia, while Exalted Draconia shall continue to provide military personnel to the legions on an auxiliary basis.

The net effect of the Treaty shall be the restoration of some limited political freedom and greater independence for Draconia, while standardizing laws between the two nations and establishing a permanent alliance between them. It also appeared to solidify Mantarakis's power in Draconia as well as reinforcing the Adiran-Draconian alliance, perhaps with the effect of moving closer to a possible Roman-Adiran alliance as well. It remains to be seen what effect this will have on relations with the Imperium.

by **Arbites** » Mon Jul 13, 2015 5:44 pm

Order Eidos
Daily News

Adiron Stages Ploy to Undermine FODE

In defiance of reason and the welfare of its own people, the government of Adiron has imposed an embargo on the entirety of the Federation of Oil Developing Economies. After two years of repeated demands by the Adirans for special accommodations outside the scope of the FODE charter, Secretary-General Benjamin Reyes finally informed the DeGroot regime that its agitating would no longer be tolerated. Adiron was left with two options: end its futile attempts at economic warfare, or suffer a major self-inflicted wound to its economy.

It chose the latter.

As with any modern nation, oil is the lifeblood of the Adiran economy. The shortages resulting from this embargo policy will cause prices to rise on goods across the board in Adiron, almost literally taking food out of the people's mouths. These sorts of price hikes would send ripples throughout the Adiran economy, likely impacting the entire nation.In a sermon earlier today, Cardinal Dawes appealed to the Adiran government's sense of duty.

"I call on Tavish DeGroot to have compassion for the people he allegedly serves. In continuing this petty campaign to destroy FODE, his actions threaten the livelihoods of millions. Not only will he starve his own people, but he will show his contempt for the developing world by refusing to trade with them. What of the children? Those of his own people, misguided as they may without faith. Those of the regional oil industry his policy is now depriving. I call on him to see reason: end your campaign against FODE."

It is likely, based on statements made by the ruling party, that the Adirans are hoping to undermine the cohesion of FODE as a whole. As Secretary-General Reyes explains, the organization must remain united for it to fulfill its purpose of supporting developing economies. "One of FODE's essential functions is protecting developing nations from predatory exploitation by powerful multinational interests, who would otherwise pit developing petroleum exporters against each other in a way which artificially forces a race to the bottom in terms of prices. By acting as a unified bloc, we look out for the needs of developing nations while also investing in infrastructure."

"What the Adirans hope to do is create disparity within FODE, whereby trading partners can pick and choose which members to trade with. This would effectively render FODE almost irrelevant. It would create competition, which in turn would discourage foreign investment between members. As Secretary-General it is my duty to look out for the needs of the organization as a whole, which is why the Adirans' demands for preferential treatment were a non-starter for negotiations. I would of course be willing to hear any other proposals," he explains. "It is unfortunate that Foreign Minister Nessic and those advising her apparently have not taken this into account. Having worked with the Deadorans for years, they are a valued member of our organization."

Despite Secretary Reyes' assessment of the Deadorans, they apparently did not return the courtesy, challenging his leadership. The issue stemmed from when Mr. Reyes' term as Secretary-General was extended by one year. This was due to the considerable unrest in South Acheron at the start of the year, including the Third Edomite Civil War and the Deadoran invasion of Dengali. It was feared that a leadership struggle at that time could seriously damage the organization.

There is the very real possibility that Deadora's recent statements are motivated primarily by self-interest. The Adiran embargo represents a significant loss in Deadoran oil exports, and Foreign Minister Nessic demanded not that the leadership be rotated but that a Deadoran specifically be given the post. Secretary Reyes pointed out that "serious questions" remain about the status of SAEC within FODE, and it is speculated within the Arbiter government that the formation of the trade bloc represents a fall-back option for the Deadorans upon their exit from FODE. Nevertheless, Secretary Reyes stated he would be happy to meet with representatives from Deadora as well as our allies in New Edom, who raised several valid concerns in the wake of the Adiran embargo.

by **The Shrailleeni Empire** » Mon Jul 13, 2015 6:53 pm

The Kalko's Cry
The First Independent News Source of the Shrailleeni Empire

July, 1291 (2015)
International News

Oil and Water
Foreign and Economic Matriarchies Speak on FODE, SAEC

Imperial City - Breaking the relative silence that has come from the Empire following the formation of the First National Assembly, representatives from the Imperial government have come forward to address the recent economic issues that have jarred the region. While refusing to shed any further light on what is taking place within the Shrailleeni system, Foreign Minister Zattem Resbruck and Matriarch of the Economy Charessa Ta'ital reaffirmed the preeminence of the Mother Empress while making it clear that the Empire is very much still active in the spheres of diplomacy and trade.

The South Acheron Economic Community, or SAEC, is a recent initiative originating in Deadora designed to alleviate longstanding economic and national tensions among the nations that share the narrow Southern Gulf. The formation of SAEC has been hailed by some as a breakthrough in peaceful cooperation among the Gulf States and a boon to the economy of Kurungarra. For others, the move have been seen as a political maneuver by the Feminist Empire to sway Gulf governments closer to its sphere of influence.

The Shrailleeni Matriarch of the Economy, Charessa Ta'ital had only good things to say about SAEC's creation:

"I believe that the S.A.E.C. is a vital step toward streamlining the economies of the Gulf states," she revealed in a private interview. "The Gulf is a very busy place, it is the only avenue of international trade for four individual nations, and a hub of oceanic trade for both Deadora and Lazodiria. In terms of the Empire alone, it is the second-busiest area of transit for Shrailleeni vessels in the world after the Western Archeron route."

"What S.A.E.C. does is ensure that all of our nations, those interested in cooperation at least, have an established avenue to coordinate our economies. For a proud, developing nation such as Kurungarra it means that there is a safety net for foreign investment and capital exchange without risking foreign dependency. While Her Enlightened Majesty already ensures the freedom of the Kurungarran people, this will allow the Fifth Queendom to safely expand its economy without relying on direct Imperial oversight. All other High Queendoms of the Empire do this already, so it is good to see Kurungarra able to take its rightful dues."

On the potential clash between SAEC and FODE, the Matriarch was dismissive.

"There is no logical reason that Deadora and Shrailleen cannot be member to both initiatives. As FODE members our priority in policy is cooperation in the petroleum market. By contrast, SAEC is a multinational trade initiative focussed primarily on cooperation in matters of tariffs, trade lanes, and labor markets. There might be some push and pull eventually on matters of oil, but these would be secondary to the main SAEC initiatives. So long as the Enlightened and Feminist empires remain dutiful FODE members, the rumbling in some FODE nations about SAEC's creation are completely unfounded in basic principle..."

FODE, the Federation of Oil-Producing Economies, entered the news spotlight again recently with the announcement of mutual embargoes between the Republic of Adiron and the nations of FODE. Talks between the Republic and the FODE organization, currently lead by the Imperium of Arbites, have ground to halt in a manner that some are calling utterly predictable. A major importer of oil and oil products, the Adiron embargoes have already had an impact on all nations involved. Shrailleeni trade with Adiron, including FODE oil sales, has been on the increase over the past year as part of the result of growing Adiron-Shrailleeni diplomatic activity in international, economic, and military subjects. The Shrailleeni Empire has already seen a noticeable hit in revenue, with many Imperial economists warning that slated government projects including vital internal and military updates may be slowed or even halted if the losses are not reversed.

On the subject of FODE the Cry interviewed Foreign Minister Zattem Resbruck, who duties now include acting at the Mother Empress's liaison on matters of international trade.

"It is not a secret that the Shrailleeni Empire is not entirely comfortable with the governments and policies of the Imperium or Urdnotia," the Foreign Minister admitted. "Given the recent revelation of events in Gloria Regis, it is difficult not to see the Imperium especially as outrightly hostile to Shrailleeni interests and national security. We have made our discomfort known in the past, to little avail. We do not even have an embassy program with Arbites, at the behest of Her Enlightened Majesty, a void that is the embodiment of our policy toward the Imperium."

"However, our hostility toward the Imperium does not translate into a hostility for FODE. The FODE organization has allowed the Empire's oil economy to flourish far more than it could ever have alone, all while maintaining our economic independence. With such a great benefit for the Shrailleeni people, we have been willing to work with Arbites in this lone front, and have even tolerated Imperium leadership in the organization for the last few years. The Mother Empress does not wish to leave FODE, and I believe that the organization would suffer profoundly from either Arbites or Deadora's departure."

Despite these words, the Foreign Minister did not defend the Imperium's embargo.

"It cannot help but be wondered whether the Imperium isn't acting purely out of selfish motives," the Minister added. "The FODE charter clearly states that leadership is to rotate every year, and clearly outlines which nation is to assume acting leadership. By this time, both Deadora and Urdnotia should rightfully have had the privilege of hosting the Secretary-General. Instead, Arbites remains in position for the third consecutive year. Their justifications for this have been lackluster at best: Deadora's government remained firmly in place during the regrettable Dengali conflict, and despite Shrailleen's own recent troubles the Mother Empress has taken great care to ensure the continued rule of law."

"The Empire went along with the first extension, as it was deemed not utterly unreasonable at the time. Not so with the second extension. The rotation was placed in the FODE charter for a reason, to ensure that no nation's national interests could take precedence over those of the whole organization. With New Edom, Deadora, and Shrailleen all hopeful that negotiations with Adiron can be resolved, it places questions on the Imperium's leadership ability. It is enough to make one wonder if the Arbiters' well known hostility toward the Republic is interfering with their economic sense."

The Foreign Minister concluded by making the Shrailleeni Empire's policy clear:

"The Empire will be strongly involved in backing our Deadoran Sisters' legitimate demands. It is the disregard for the principles of the FODE charter that throws the organization into jeopardy, not presumed fractures between members. The Empire did not join this organization under the belief that Arbites would act as its chair in-perpetuity. I will be personally spearheading Shrailleeni negatiations within FODE to work with our New Edomite, Deadoran, Urdnotian, and Imperium partners to realize full rotation and, with the blessing of the Mother of All, work to bring this disastrous embargo to a reasonable and profitable close."

by **Novitera** » Tue Jul 14, 2015 11:03 pm

FASDA -14.55 D&D 500 -20.58 CI +18.24 Pioneer 2000 -30.47 Crude +6.78 Gold +3.00

FODE Oil Embargo Stings Noviteran Markets

Featured Stories
-The New New Edom
-Rise of SAEC
-Can the CTO Work?

Rising oil prices raise the cost of everything and it's no secret that the shortage in Adiron is affecting Noviteran markets. The overall global shortage because of the embargo has raised prices in Novitera as well. Domestic suppliers will try to alleviate the situation at home by attempting to buy up FODE's excess capacity as a result Adiron no longer being a viable customer. Rising gas prices does bode well for some companies at home like Federation Oilwell Varco (FOV). The offshore drilling that FOV is heavily engaged would now be more profitable given the higher costs of operations compared to on shore drilling. We can expect production to rise from them but overall, offshore drilling accounts only for a fraction of Novitera's oil consumption. The Dabrid Mercantile Exchange is seeing some increased activity everyday. Premiums long position oil options have steadily been rising since the announcement of the embargo while holders were quick to sell off their shorts. Domestic suppliers are scrambling to cover in the event of further price increases.

Even if Novitera manages to seize the contracts to Adiron lost by the embargo, continued oil shortages in the Ceti nation would still have negative effects back home. The financial sector is looking grim with many firms holding Adiran equity securities in their portfolios. Experts are expecting a continued devaluation until oil prices return to normal levels in Adiron. There has already been significant sales however all financial institutions are holding on to most of their Adiran blue chips with a strong history of dividend payments.

"We urge the private sector to hold on to their Adiran assets. A mass sale could trigger further and substantial devaluations. Then we all lose. Gallows Street is heavily entrenched in buying up foreign securities, especially Adiron. There's no way to separate ourselves entirely. If we cut and run then the house falls down." Said the Economic Adviser to the Trask Administration.

Gallows Street tends to agree. Novitera's big three, Wallstryn, Gideon and Bank of Novitera have declared at the urging of the Trask Administration that they will make no major changes to their Adiran portfolios. Though at the same time they have taken out some insurance on their Adiran assets by buying short position futures on Adiran indexes. Short selling equity securities overall is on the rise across the board with Gallows Street hedging against both Noviteran and Adiran markets.

"Novitera has long been preparing for oil shortages. The government has long been pushing towards more fuel efficient cars in our automobile industry. Federal funding for public transportation have succeeded in cities like Folkport and Avantine." Stated Executor of Energy Carmine Leary.

Whether the government will tap into it's reserves to keep prices low for the time being has yet to be decided. On one hand it could alleviate rising prices at home. On the other, dozens would lose out on the long futures of oil that have recently been bought up and government is loathe to intervene as opposed to letting the free market find it's own solution. A route the Federal government usually chooses in the event of economic turmoil.

IIwiki Admin · by **Ghant** » Thu Jul 16, 2015 8:59 am

Prince Michael of Dakmoor and Crown Princess of Jocasta married!

Prince Michael marries former sister-in-law Jocasta following divorce from Queen Mara

"Midsummer Ball" announced, to be held in Ghish.
By John Igara| GHISH | Posted: July 1, 12:00 GST

TOP STORIES
Mara and Michael divorced
Michael married to Jocasta
Gloria Regis
Lucia Antonia
the Imperium and Adiron
Oil!
No night in Thule
The Midsummer Ball
No Gay Rights in New Edom

(Fineberg, New Edom)- It is official- The ill-fated marriage between Prince Michael of Dakmoor and Queen Mara of New Edom has come to an end, less then one year after it began.

In a stunning sequence of events, the Queen and Michael divorced amicably, with the Queen then marrying her first cousin once removed, Admiral Prince Regent Elijah Shalamaneser, who upon married to the Queen became Co-sovereign AS King Elijah IV. Prince Michael, meanwhile, was not unmarried for long, as he then married Crown Princess Jocasta, the Queen’s younger sister.

Prince Michael of Dakmoor is the son of Malibar of Dakmoor and the late Elizabeth Mutu of Onmutu. His paternal grandparents are the late Miraxes of Dakmoor, the famed rebel leader of the Ghantish Revolution, and Princess Isabella Orinbere of Gauekoizarra, the famed actress of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Michael’s maternal grandparents are Lord Balthazar Mutu of Onmutu and Annabelle Ordos of Draconis. Michael is the youngest of three children, after Sophia, Empress of Ghant, and Martin, Crown Prince of Dakmoor.
Jocasta's parents are the late King James II of New Edom, and Queen Rebecca Pahath-Moab. Her paternal grandparents are the late King Josias II of New Edom and Queen Anna Hesperinus, while her maternal grandparents are Prince Joachim Pahath-Moab and Theodora Fenton. Jocasta is the younger of the two sisters.

The wedding was well attended, though small at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Fineberg, with important members of government and each nation’s royal families present for the occasion. Jocasta’s bridesmaids consisted of Emilia Jabbok, Camilla Sharra, Lavinia Nabal and Olympia Domris, while Michael’s groomsmen consisted of his brother, Crown Prince Martin of Dakmoor, his brother-in-law, Emperor Nathan IV of Ghant, his cousin David Mutu and his childhood friend Gorka Daraskan. The newly minted King Elijah IV gave Jocasta away.

In a public statement, King Malibar of Dakmoor had the following to say:

“It is my pleasure to formally announce that my son, Michael, and Crown Princess Jocasta of the Allied States of New Edom, have married in Fineberg. I would like to congratulate both on this very important event in their lives, and it is my hope that they shall have a long, happy and fruitful marriage, with all indications suggesting that they shall. While the initial alliance between New Edom and Ghant was a great step forward for both nations, this marriage symbolizes that we are able to adapt and continue to grow together as friends and allies.”

The Prime Minister had the following to say about the engagement:

“I am very happy for Prince Michael and Crown Princess Jocasta. They are both young, lively people and by all accounts are very much in love with each other, and as they say, love is a beautiful thing. I look forward to watching them grow together as husband and wife, as I look forward to seeing Ghant and New Edom grow as allies, tempered by time and trial to be even closer then ever before.”

The Empress of Ghant released a statement as well congratulating the recently announced husband and wife:

“I would like to congratulate my brother Michael and new sister-in-law Jocasta on their new marriage. This is an exciting time for our family and for our nations. My brother has so much love in his heart for Jocasta and for New Edom, and Jocasta too is young and passionate, and very much cares deeply for my brother. I have no doubt that they shall enjoy their lives together. I would also like to announce the Midsummer Ball in Ghish to commemorate the event, and invitation letters shall be dispersed soon.”

The Midsummer Ball is set to take place in July, to be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Imperial Palace of Ghish…the first event of its kind since the marriage ball held shortly after the Emperor and Empress wed.

Similar arrangements are said to have been agreed upon by House Obed and House Dakmaran, preserved from the union between Mara and Michael. Namely, that Jocasta would remain “Jocasta Obed”, while Michael would remain “Michael Dakmaran”, as per Ghantish tradition of retaining family names after marriage. Any children born to the two would have a synthesized name consisting of elements of “Obed” and “Dakmaran”, thereby creating a new house. So far the name “Obaran” seems to be the favorite.

In other news, Lucia Antonia, the Roman wife of Lord Christopher Zuria, has been appointed by Emperor Valerian of Rome to be his Legate to Gloria Regis. This has controversy in Ghant, considering that Lucia Antonia is the Emperor of Ghant’s aunt by marriage, and is eight months pregnant with the couple’s first child.

There has been much speculation and debate as to the nature of the decision, with royal watchers and people privy to the inner circle going as far to suggest that the Roman Emperor made his decision out of spite towards Lord Christopher, who is a vocal critic of Emperor Valerian. This interpersonal grudge stems from an affair that Christopher allegedly had with Valerian’s first wife Aelia, who was later executed for treason by her then ex-husband Valerian.

The concerns in Ghish are that Valerian is sowing the seeds of divided loyalties among Emperor Nathan’s family, and essentially compelling Christopher to move to Gloria Regis with Lucia and their unborn child should Lucia accept the appointment.

In a rare statement, the Emperor of Ghant criticized the decision, calling out Emperor Valerian for the first time since his ordered execution of Aelia, which the Emperor of Ghant not only pleaded to avoid, advocating exile to Ghant, but condemned.

“I would like to express concern with Emperor Valerian’s decision to appoint my aunt, Lucia Antonia, as Roman Legate to Gloria Regis. I believe that he was aware that she is a month of way to giving birth to her and my uncle Christopher Zuria’s first child, which would be my cousin. That is a very important time for our family, and they should have the opportunity to spend it here, where they have lived and have looked forward to building a life together. I would urge Emperor Valerian to reconsider, and if he is doing this to get back at my uncle and my mother’s family for some perceived slight, I would say that is petty, and that I would have expected better.”

by **Free Garza** » Thu Jul 16, 2015 11:09 am

Free Garza City Matador,
Lisa Benitez, Editor-in-Chief

In a historic comeback since her calamitous defeat in February of 2014, former Premier and Chairwoman of the Social Democratic (affectionately called "Socialist") Party Jacinta Castillo, who was also a former Senator, was reinstated in office after the SDP gained sizable plurality in the July elections for the Cortes over the Christian Democratic Party of outgoing Premier and former President Marco Roman, the Liberal Democratic Party led by Senator Jorge Corona, and the Communist Party led by Osvaldo Duarte. This morning, after Castillo's party won 132 seats in the People's Assembly and 44 seats in the Senate, she was formally invited to the Royal Valdez Palace by King Diego IV and asked to form a government in His Catholic Majesty's name.

This is an incredible advance for Garzan parliamentary democracy, not just because we have a peaceful transition of power twice now since the monarchy was restored by popular referendum, nor simply because this is a center-left, progressive minority government taking the helm again, but also because it puts an end to tame premiers and docile cabinets who meekly follow royal "advice" that has often seemed suspiciously like royal commands. Whatever else one says about newly reinstalled Premier Castillo, she is her own woman. She will consider His Catholic Majesty's counsel and do honor to his government's good name, but she will be the captain of her own ship and lead the new regime as she and the other party leaders see fit. She might have to negotiate a bit in order to pass legislation, but Castillo is clearly the head of government now. She will guide the policy and direction of the state for the near future.

What sort of laws might emerge from this new government? That remains to be seen, but we can guess. The nation can make some serious progress toward a new era of social justice and social reform, as well as more diplomacy and less blind compliance with allies in New Edom. We remain allies, but now we can be sure that we will not be puppets. We will not be an Edomite satellite state. Expect new protections for the elderly, too, for workers, for veterans, for the disabled, for women, and for children. Expect a stronger grasp of the importance of defense of civil rights and liberties. Expect perhaps some protections for the LGBT community for a change. Expect maybe better sex education that doesn't gloss over the value of contraceptives in favor of a heavy emphasis on abstinence. Expect better research toward HIV treatments and someday a cure. Expect a tougher defense of the environment and a thrust toward cleaner, more sustainable energy and growth. Expect more funding for education, health care, and mass transit.

And, yes, to pay for this, expect somewhat higher taxes on the rich. We don't wish to run high deficits, now, do we? Chin up, wealthy Garzans. We don't want all of your money or even to punish you for success, despite the dire warnings of the Right. We're just passing the hat for a good cause and making you an offer you can't refuse. Higher taxes in exchange for a higher quality nation. Not a bad trade-off, is it, even if you don't get a say in the decision. Well, you did, but elections have consequences.

I, for one, think that you'll find that in losing this election, even you in the upper income brackets who will have to pay somewhat higher marginal rates, will win something: a Free Garza of which you can be proud, one synonymous with a growing, educated middle class, a higher standard of living, longer life expectancy, and public services which will be the talk of the region for a good reason for once. Not to mention a greener Free Garza and one which will draw more tourists, not fewer. One in which even the peasants can listen to their aristocratic neighbors talk history and actually understand what they're saying.

In other words, a better Free Garza for all Garzans, rich and poor alike. That will be the legacy of New Socialism and leftist rule.

by **New Othman** » Thu Jul 16, 2015 3:08 pm

Edirne Chronicle,
Genc Bakkal, Senior Writer

A group of Fascist thugs with masks, truncheons, brass knuckles, and castor oil publicly attacked and stripped women at a local feminist rally held by the Othmani National Women's Congress today, resulting in 45 injuries, 7 sexual assaults, and 13 deaths. The attacks occurred in the town of Edirne, 13 km inside the Othmani side of the DMZ on the Lazodirian border. As yet, there have been no arrests in spite of the public outcry.

The Commissioner of the Edirne Police has released a statement that, "due to the use of masks, identification of the perpetrators has been less than successful as yet. The public needs to be patient and trust their police."

However, Asa Fahri, Secretary-General of the Othmani National Women's Congress, has asserted that, "The police have not really bothered to truly investigate the matter or the evidence of yet. They are trying to downplay this case because they are protecting something or someone. There is some corruption going on here, some cronyism, nepotism, or graft. Most importantly, defense of women's rights do not matter when attacks by terrorists on women take place."

In fact, not 15 minutes after Fahri's public complaint, a group calling itself "Black Scimitar" claimed responsibility for the assault, demanding that, "Social order must be restored and the forces of Marxism, democracy, pacifism, feminism, Islamism, and other enemies of New Othmani national sovereignty and national security must be destroyed forever. Fascist rule must be restored under the command and guidance of a true Othmani patriot. This Republic and this Treaty are treason and betrayal of New Othman and the foreign occupation of New Othman must end now. The traitors of 2013 must be shot."

The police have declined to comment, but this reporter is still attempting to reach the local peacekeeping commander for comment as well.

by **New Edom** » Thu Jul 16, 2015 3:48 pm

New Edomite National News Report

Opening bars of Pictures at an Exhibition play as a globe spins with pins popping up on various points of the world. Split screen images of natural disasters, celebrations, military actions, elections, royal ceremonies, celebrity events are showin, occasionally with New Edomite news anchors talking about them, and then fades to a news desk.

A raven haired woman with olive skin, dark brown eyes with a rosebud mouth, a slim nose and a statuesque figure sat behind a news desk with the New Edomite flag imposed over a silhouette map of the Allied States of New Edom behind her. “Good evening,” she said, looking up with a smile. It was clear that above the waist at least she wore nothing but a gold cross on a chain, though her image was pixelated for those nations censoring such an appearance. “I’m Lavinia Tuller, and this is the International News.

"According to the Edirne Chronicle in New Othman and our correspondents in the area, brawls have broken out between elements of the "Black Scimitar" and feminist political activist in the border town.

"The attack resulted in 45 injuries, 7 sexual assaults, and 13 deaths. The Black Scimitar and the Othmani National Women's Congress both claimed involvement and demanded justice each in their own way. It is not yet known who was killed, injured or sexually assaulted.

"King Elijah IV has pledged to continue supporting the CPO peacekeeping mission in the area. Dr. Aphek, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has suggested that there need to be mediation talks in New Othman about what he called "the very legitimate concern for morality and stability in challenging times."

""While we have seen remarkable initiatives by the Deadoran Empire towards peace, we must remember that feminism in this Region has been marked by militancy and aggression towards neighboring countries and a consistent imperialism. I do not approve of the Black Scimitar's rhetoric in every instance, but when they are threatened they surely must defend themselves.""

" And we'll back after these messages, including a message from Bird City Fun World--ride the birdcoaster, see Harry the Bird and try a birdburger dinner, fun for the whole family."

by **Jedoria** » Sat Jul 18, 2015 1:41 am

Duke Condemns Most Recent Attack In New Othman; Jedorian Air Force Wants More Fighters, and Government Wants More Teachers

STRANA MECHTY - It seems that for every good step New Othman takes to attempt to become a functioning, contributing state to the region as a whole, something happens to draw the young republic back. In this most recent case, a terrorist attack against a feminist rally in Edirne, 13 km inside the Othmani side of the DMZ on the Lazodirian border. Within minutes, the terrorist group known as the "Black Scimitar" claimed responsibility. Despite pubic outcry however, there have been no arrests made. The Duke urged the Othmani Government to prosecute those responsible for the crimes.

In addition, the Duke criticized comments made by Edomite Foreign Minister Paul Aphek, which suggested that the terrorist organization was merely defending itself. "It what was a clear demonstration of an attack on a peaceful rally, the Edomite Foriegn Minister instead took the opportunity to defend the actions of terrorists and attempt to heap blame onto the Feminists, in clear line of Edomite policy of treating feminist supporters with disdain. Under no circumstances should a lawful nation like the Allied States actually suggest that a terrorist organization was somehow justified in their actions."

The Duke promised further assistance would be given to the Othmani Government to battle against terrorist and insurrectionist forces. In other news, Field Marshall Dimtri Vadam confirmed to reporters earlier today that the Jedorian Air Force was continuing it's most recent expansion, with plans announced to acquire at least 20 more Adiran built F-39 Raven fighter jets. In addition, the Confederate Air Force plans to expand it's current fleet of Dassault Rafale M's, which currently service as Jedoria's carrier based fighter, and further upgrades to the Saab Gripen are also expected.

Multi-role fighters aren't the only type of aircraft being focused on by the Air Force. In recent weeks, the small cache of Jedoria's nuclear deterrent aircraft, the Mirage 2000N, have been put to the skies in several training operations, which Air Force Central Command calls "needed updates on the status of Jedoria's nuclear deterrent". This comes in light of the reported testing of Jedoria's only squadron of interceptor aircraft, MiG-31 Foxhounds, in order to determine rapid reaction capabilities in responding to violations of Jedorian territorial integrity.
Combined with further purchases of several long range air-to-air and cruise missiles, the Jedorian Air Force seems determined to become the dominant air power in the region. On a seemingly unrelated note, save for it's release on the same day, an official statement from the Ministry of Education confirmed that by the end of the fiscal year, Jedorian schools are expected to hire at least 8,000 more teachers.

Such a high number of educators was justified in the report, which stated that "research shows that a more equivalent student-to-teacher ratio results in higher test grades and overall averages amongst students." Citing the report as evident of Jedorian needs to improve the number of teachers currently employed, the Ministry confirmed they planned to appeal for a higher budget for the coming years, with focus going into "Preparation classes" in High School, studies that are aimed to help prepare students for like as a Confederate Citizen, including information like how to pay taxes, get insurance, fill out resumes, and make it on their own.

"Children are our future," said a spokesperson for the Ministry, "It's high time we start giving them the attention and focus they need to succeed in the real world."

by **Deadora** » Sat Jul 18, 2015 1:53 pm

News for the People

Cornellian Cancer

Partisan Terror in New Othman Continues

Oerene Balla
Journalist

Edirne, New Othman Yesterday in the New Othman DMZ north of the Lazodiran border, hardline Fascist insurgents have rekindled a campaign of terror against Othmani women and their attempts at political organization. 65 women of the Othmani National Women's Congress were victims of vicious, mob-style sexual violence, culminating in the cold-blooded murder of 13 innocent women and the rape of dozens more. The group responsible for this atrocity styles themselves "The Black Scimitar", and have taken up arms to restore a Fascist government and compete with Islamic militants for influence in the battered republic.

This is only the latest, and certainly not the last, in a series of escalating incidents that began before the ink on the Treaty of Beaulieu had dried or the first boots of the CPO touched Othmani shores. The Othmani never truly capitulated to the Treaty terms in their hearts and minds; they have railed and struggled against its terms of disarmament since day one. Virtually all of the security threats against the Deadoran participants of the CPO mission, from maintaining the integrity of the border to providing security for refugee camps in Lazodiria, have come from New Othman.

We contacted Matriarch-Colonel Adra D'Bensei, commander of the Deadoran CPO contingent in Lazodiria and Judge-Advocate General of the CPO Mission in Southern Acheron; she had this to say: "I think it is time for the world to recognize a simple truth. The Othmani are not a peaceful people. They flee from civilization and yearn for the yolk of misogynistic terror, be it Islamic barbarism or secular Fascist perversion. Ruthless containment of these militant insurgent groups with a strong hand is thus a necessary prerequisite for peace in the Region, lest they spread beyond New Othman's borders like cells of an untreated cancer."

More worrisome is a statement released by the New Edomite Foreign Ministry that implicitly defended the "rights" of terrorists to carry out unprovoked mass violence against innocent civilians and fellow Othmani. "[New Edom], more than any other nation, should recognize the grave threat of non-state terrorist militias like the Black Scimitar or Vengeance of Allah," Matriarch Foreign Affairs Arlenica Nessic commented. "Yet what we hear now is what we heard in Dengali: the Allied States supporting militant extremists in opposition to the rightful states and powers of Acheron."

The New Othman government has thus far declined to comment on the tragedy, but allegations of corruption, political division, and disloyalty are already gaining traction. No one knows when the next terrorist attack will occur, or against whom, but one thing is very clear. Unless something is done, the violence will return, bloodier and more horrific than ever before.

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by **Hittanryan** » Sat Jul 18, 2015 4:04 pm

Terror in New Othman

The first attack was the bombing of a New Ankara nightclub which left over 60 people dead and 80 injured, with a second blast directed at first responders. The terrorist organization known as the Vengeance of Allah or Vengeance of God have claimed responsibility for the attack. Radical Islamic fundamentalists, the group calls for the establishment of Shari'a law under a caliphate, the renunciation of the Treaty of Beaulieu, and the elimination of all Western influences from New Othman. The Altinay nightclub was attacked as a symbol of secular Othmani culture and Western decadence.

Mere days later, a feminist rally in Edirne came under assault by armed thugs wielding melee weapons inside the DMZ, with multiple counts of homicide, battery, and sexual assault. Though the Vengeance of Allah was an initial suspect, an entirely separate group has since revealed itself. Calling itself the "Black Scimitars," in a public statement the group claimed responsibility for the attack and called for the restoration of fascist rule, suggesting their possible origin as holdouts of the deposed Targan regime. The Othmani National Women's Congress, the feminist group which staged the rally, has since criticized the ensuing police investigation as sluggish, and implied possible complicity in Black Scimitar activity. Police have declined to comment.

In the wake of two separate terrorist attacks in New Othman, Adiron is being forced to address its own fears about terrorism. The bombing of Bluebrook Station in Isidium left several hundred Adirans dead. Law enforcement and counter-terrorism agencies have since foiled at least two more attempted attacks, one on a major Air Force base. Citing ongoing investigations, the government has declined to provide further details as to the culprits of these attacks.

Given the recent spate of violence in New Othman and the government's silence, experts are wondering if perhaps the attacks in Adiron are connected to New Othman. As a major player in the Central Acheron Conflict and Targan's downfall, Adiron could easily be a primary target for fascist sympathizers who consider the Republic of New Othman and Treaty of Beaulieu illegitimate. In attempting to liberalize New Othman and as a secular liberal democracy itself, Adiron could also have agitated religious conservatives on ideological grounds. Both groups are also likely opposed to the continued presence of peacekeepers in the demilitarized zones and neighboring states.

Some in the Assembly have already started asking questions. In Question Time, Liberal MA Cliff Engman raised the point to the President directly. "Has the President considered the possibility that these attacks represent the cost to the Adiran public of his adventurism in Central Acheron?"

"No, I have not considered these attacks on civilians in Adiron or New Othman justified in any way, and with respect to New Othman I would remind the gentleman that the cost of inaction at the time for Lazodiria and Valik would have been almost too terrible to comprehend," President DeGroot replied. When pressed for specifics on the attacks, however, he once more stated he could not reveal classified information on the investigation due to security risks.

Liberal MA Patricia Vanwingerden attempted to glean the government's planned response. "If it were discovered that either the Vengeance of God or Black Scimitars were connected to the attacks on Adiran soil, how would the President respond?"

"By working with our allies in the Republic to neutralize an international terror threat. Even if they were not connected to Bluebrook, I would assist our allies in any capacity necessary to protect Othmani lives from indiscriminate violence perpetrated by extremists. That could mean helping to investigate Ms. Fahri's allegations against the police, supporting Othmani counter-terrorism efforts, or even providing an expanded peacekeeping presence in the DMZ."

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