Yukon Begins Pt. II [IC | Region Only]

[Onza]

FOR MEMBERS OF THE UNIFIED COALITION OF NATIONS ONLY

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Region| Forums| Nation Generation and Tracking| Rules

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Nations to Know

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The Socialist People's Republic of Samakia

The United Democratic Emirates of Onza

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The Restored Oligarchic Senate of Vvarden

The Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem

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Places to Visit (This will be updated)

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Sudtenar in the Southern Empire, Trodenhiem

Great Pyramids, Onza

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Artistic Rendition of Zoroshthurvan, Vvarden

Gavanay, Capitol of Samakia

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Union House of the Union of Columbia

Palace of the Nation, Union of Columbia

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The Lienstolv Gate, Geddon, Trodenhiem

der Staatpalast, Geddon, Trodenhiem

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People to Meet (This will be updated)

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Thomas P. Kucera, 30th President of the
United Republic of Airatania

Emperor Konstantin IX of Trodenhiem

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The Grand Speaker of Vvarden

Xolani Kojo, President of Onza

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General Secretary Tymeo
N. Bankole of Samakia

The Rt. Hon. Harold Lynton, MP;
Prime Minister of Columbia

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Vice President Desta Tendai of Onza

Chancellor Wilhelm von
Adenaur of Trodenhiem

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Cultures to Learn (Click the flag to learn more!)

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[Vvarden]

Long ago, they had appeared on the horizon in their ships, sailing for the land between the lakes, their floating towers of wood and steel that washed on their shores. We were cautious, we gave them gifts,  they wanted more. We proposed treaties and deals to prosper our peoples, but greed burned in their eyes, we should've seen it. So they killed us, murdered us, wreaking, hacking, enslaving. Our Empire fell, and we lost our way, having no hope, no future, all knowledge of our great past obliterated under marching feet. But then they knew what they did when they looked down at their feet and saw us looking through the dirt for scraps.

They promised to restore our world, but they didn't, rather deport us to the land that was once our home, but we had lost the means to survive there. So we suffered more, but we endured, and repopulated the lands we called home. We resurrected the Empire, but it were still a pathetic shadow, with only dreams and mysteries and ruins left. We are Vvardeni, and we are reborn, and ready to bestow revenge upon the invaders, like fog from the mountains we will charge down and smother them as they sleep.

 Present Day

 

His wrists still bore the scars of his life as a slave, created from the rubbing of rusty chains against soft skin day after day, making the skin there more rough than anywhere else. His neck and back bore deep, wide scars with the skin at the bottom of them a fleshy pink colour, a contrast to his light grey skin. He was lean, semi-muscular and tall with piercing red eyes and charcoal black hair swept to one side and braided. He was 36 in human years, but closer to twenty five in the Vvardeni natural lifespan.

The Vvardeni stumbled out of the bed, wearing but a loincloth. The Vvardeni unshuttered the blinds and looked out the window, watching the sun rise on this nation, his nation. White glassy buildings standing in ancient, empty fields stood around the building, catching the light of the sun with their solar panels. All around people woke from their slumber, just now starting to go to their daily lives; The city of Zoroshthurvan. The room he was standing in was nothing fancy, but well made, with a large bed in the center and various chairs, bookcases, sofas and other items around the room, making it look more like a draughty, dark, velvet and mahogany decorated study than the bedrooms of one of the most powerful people on this planet, and the leader of the Vvardeni people.
As it was morning, the lights were off, but soon they would be on and slowly brighten if the windows weren't open, mimicking a natural sunrise.

There was another Vvardeni, with grey skin, sleeping soundly at one end.
"Sul tusizi, suo daegona. He said, kissing the sleeping figure on the forehead.

The Vvardeni walked past a small console and pressed a button, and the mahogany walls changed to a sky blue, before he got dressed after trying on a sequence of elaborate outfits in front of a full length mirror, eventually choosing to wear flowing red and green robes with splashes of purple, in the style of early Byzantine clothing, with hard chitin pauldrons, mostly only for decoration. This simular style of clothing however was not taken from the Byzantines, rather an antique method used to dress the Emperor-Under-Universes of old. This land was a descendant of sorts, a snotty, wimpy descendant always picked on and tricked; No longer a mighty empire, but a small, sad senate in a ruined city. In the countryside and even in the middle of cities and towns undisturbed ruins lie, like mossy columns, remains of marble arches, and in the centre of the capital, the last remnants of a capital city of over two billion people. The palace was destroyed completely when the invaders came, leaving an empty, circular field in a busy metropolis. According to legend, it towered at the height of a thousand metres, and contained a grand library, containing old history, valuable legends and even spells to cheat death. Alas, all was burned down, leaving only simple threads of oral tales, half legend, half myth that nobody knows anymore. It was a hard, impossible task for the Restorers, the order dedicated to refinding the library, convinced it was hidden away, along with collecting all information about the Empires of old. The country they had made was almost a miracle. All these outcasts, shaped by the countries they were shunned in, uniting together, with their tongue and physical traits being the only similarities. That made it hard to run, the Vvardeni knew.

By the time the Grand Speaker had departed the Speaker's quarters it was almost noon. At the entrance to the Council Chambers, he turned and smiled at the open space under the cover of the building, enabling people to see the city, showing it all, from airships in the sky to the hustle and bustle of similar dressed peoples going about their business on beautiful white streets, with small solar powered cars being the only traffic. A regiment of guards in hooded silver masks marched up and down the street, carrying stun-spears and shields, along with two plasma pistols for emergencies. There were some bare parts of the city, where green fields littered with half buried stone buildings lie, such as the area surrounding the Council Chambers, a white gold triangular cone shaped tower almost as tall as the palace of old, one of the only relics of the old city spared from destruction. Still time left it's mark in the form of its withered and cracked exterior, with the mosaics on the pillars in front of the entrance faded, some missing, but still slightly visible. The Grand Seeker pouted his bottom lip, remembering that only a decade ago, this place was bare, this building in urgent need of restoration, with the Vvardeni a disused race, unemployed, freed from slavery but with nothing better, living in streets rife with crime, not to mention the prejudice. Some doctors if brought Vvardeni would refuse to treat them, and as a result many died.

But it was better now, but still more had to be done.

 

“I am afraid, my Muthsera Mirnrose Llorhalor.” The Grand Speaker spoke in fear almost, or perhaps agitation. The room which he was in was large and open, the bookshelves and cobblestone walls giving a cosy appearance. A woman in a long dress and longer robes sat on a leather couch, which was wrinkled with age, unlike the woman who seemed relatively youthful. She seemed peaceful and was enjoying a glass of wine, taking light sips of the red liquid. She listened to the Grand Speaker continue. “I am afraid of the senate and their policies, I am afraid of the tough line we are taking in this world. I agree some things must be done for the state, but capital punishments in the streets? Lawbreakers and dissenters vanishing as the secret police kidnaps them? This utopia for our species is transforming into a tyranny by the majority if the senate puts forward more ideas like those. One day they'll get a majority and then peace and prosperity with the ethnic humans who have been living here since we left will be gone forever! I tell you, we have a rotten core.”

Mirnrose sighed and took a sip of her wine. “It is frightening Sera, but things must be done for progress. This is the darkest night before the dawn. We’ve already done so much, don’t give up now. This will work out, just give it time Grand Speaker. We’ve built this utopia, peacefully negotiated with nearby tribes over borders and landed an even greater achievement when you realise some of them were out for us, thinking us no longer the people we were, clouded by life under the humans’ heel and then scraped off and thrown into the gutter, and to tell you, they're right.”

“That’s not true. We’ve not changed, we’re still the same people that made empires out of this land. Speaking of the past Lady, you may act all rich and ignorant, but ten years ago there wasn't even a mattress in your bedroom. I know what I've done and I'm telling you we need to solve this. It's getting worse. We are the same people and like the old empires, we need to keep the charismatic speakers promoting these actions on a leash. Their charisma distracts, destructs and rewards the wrong people, the extremists.” The Grand Speaker shook his head, but somewhere in his heart he knew, things had changed. The technology had obviously changed, along with some laws and customs, stolen from the humans. But then again, some things had stayed the same, polygamy as an example. Any man and woman can own a maximum of two husbands/wives; an old law enacted by Sera Bonyek Gandrusul in the first days of the old empire, though it is rarely seen in the cities, mostly seen in small country towns.

“Yes and no, Speaker. We have a different culture now, warped and changed by human interference. Our ancestors would look at us with shock, and not just because we lost everything they had, spiritually and physically. And keeping the opposition on a leash would turn this place into a dictatorship. We must let things run their course.” She looked at the burgundy red walls and quoted an old saying. “The world turns, what was may come again.”

“Yes, yes. The words of Ralos XVI, the last Emperor.”

Mirnrose nodded. “Your predecessor of sorts, in terms of head of the Vvardeni state. Try not to end up like dear Ralos, for our species’ sake. I know there is a rotten core, but it is necessary, then you can be all forgiving and peaceful. As that naval saying goes, you can let your sails free after the storm, not in the middle, else you’ll be blown off course.” Then she stood up of the couch, flattened the folds she made whilst sitting and casually walked out of the office, leaving an empty wineglass as the only trace she had been there.


The air was filled with smoke and the stench of death.
The sky was stained a reddish orange from the fighting. Gunfire crackled through the streets and the sounds of battle were close. Whole districts were aflame and people were dying in their thousands. The Emperor Ralos XVI stood on the thick stone walls, the large marble building in front of him standing, a tower of might, a light of the Vvardeni race, as explosions made the thick walls shake and shudder. In the distance thirty story buildings fell to the ground in large collapses as enemy flying machines flew overhead. He was flanked on all sides by the guards, carrying exotic and punishing melee weaponry, but it was no use for the enemy and their sticks of flame. The wounded were everywhere. People ran to flee the invading force, it was true and utter chaos.

The Emperor stood, stern, looking down at his people gathered below, guards, soldiers, people who had families, friends, people who decided to stay to defend the capital from the invaders. The Emperor sighed, weary, and he spoke loudly.

"Gentlemen, illustrious captains of the army, and our most pious comrades in arms: we now see the hour of battle approaching. I have therefore elected to assemble you here to make it clear that you must stand together with firmer resolution than ever. You have always fought with glory against the enemies of the Universe. Now the defence of your fatherland and of the city known the world over, which the infidel and evil humans have been besieging for two hundred and seven days, is committed to your lofty spirits."

"If the Universe grants victory to the impious because of my own sins, we will endanger our lives for our holy faith, which the Universe taught us. This is most important of all. Even if one gains the entire world but loses his soul in the process, what will it benefit!"

"This wretch of an invader has besieged our city up to now for two hundred and seven days with all his engines and strength; he has relaxed the blockade neither day nor night, but, by the grace of the Universe, who sees all things, the enemy has often been repelled by charges, up to now, from our walls with shame and dishonor. Yet now too, my brothers, feel no cowardice, even if small parts of our fortifications have collapsed from the explosions and engine missiles, as you can see, we made all possible, necessary repairs. We are placing all hope in the irresistible glory of the Universe. Some have faith in armament, others in cavalry, might and numbers but we believe in the name of our High Priest, our Representative and the Universe, and second, in our arms and strength granted to us by divine power."

"Be not afraid because its walls have been worn down by the enemy's battering. For your strength lies in the protection of the Universe and you must show it with your arms quivering and your swords brandished against the enemy. I know that this undisciplined mob will, as is their custom, rush upon you with loud cries and ceaseless volleys of their powerless missile weapons. These will do you no bodily harm, for I see that you are well covered in armour. They will strike the walls, our breastplates and our shields. So do not imitate the early Vvardeni who, when the Vokun went into battle against them, allowed their cavalry to be terrified by the fearsome sight and sound of the sandbeasts. In this battle you must stand firm and have no fear, no thought of flight, but be inspired to resist with ever more herculean strength. Animals may run away from animals. But you are men, men of stout heart, and you will hold at bay these dumb brutes, thrusting your spears and swords into them, so that they will know that they are fighting not against their own kind but against the masters of animals."

I can tell you that this city mastered the entire universe; She placed beneath her feet the Vokun, the Ebresigells, the Samak, the Yerim, the Golans, the Rendeni, the Weideni, the Poideni, the inhabitants of the Steppes! The Xi, the Erguii, the Naz, the Dunhuan along with the Tross, the Kurgan, the Gratii, the Basii, the Scandza, the Gothiscanza, the Freats and Ganes along with the rest of those northern barbarians! Now the invaders want to enslave Zoroshthurvan and throw the yoke upon our holy churches, where the Universali Vvar was first worshipped, where the Universe was glorified in hymns, where people were heard praising in chant the deity of and the incarnation of the Universes' word, they want to turn into shrines of blasphemy as well as into stables for their machines of infernal destruction!"

"You, my comrades in arms, obey the commands of your leaders in the knowledge that this is the day of your glory! A day on which, if you shed but a drop of blood, you will win for yourselves crowns of martyrdom and eternal fame!"

The crowd cheered loudly as the Emperor finished, interrupted several seconds later with the collapse of the walls, turning them into a small ridge of rubble. The Emperor Ralos XVI was quickly attended to by guards who stripped him of his royal armour and replaced it with that of an officer, apart from the cape. "O Soldiers!" Ralos spoke in stentorian tones "Your Emperor fights among you!" Then the Emperor approached the breach in the walls, and he knew. He knew the enemy would be waiting. He knew. But there was no other way. Better to go out fighting than trapped in a small fort in the heart of the sacred capital. Better dead in one big blaze of glory than in cowardice, hiding in the ruins of a city. It would catch them by surprise, perhaps rout them. A very slim chance, but one can only hope. The Emperor sheathed his sword and screamed the order.

"Faelas!" The crowd ran forward, led by the Emperor as he scrambled his way over the small rubble ridge, all that remained of a once strong inner wall. When he got to the top, he saw. He saw the enemy in their barricades at the back of the long main road, the Universe's Road. He saw the enemy perched on some of the rooftops. He saw the enemy flying machines go round for another attack. Now was the time.
The Emperor pointed his sword again at the sky and looked behind, cheering on the soldiers following him, and then he ran as the crowd followed him.

The Emperor heard the buzzing of the enemy weapons, he saw the flashes of light at the end of the road. Any second now bullets would pass through his body and leave him broken. He was the first to be cut down, a bullet hitting him in the arm and then two in the chest. The crowd kept on running. They kept on running, through fire and death. They did not get far. The Emperor sighed and lapsed into unconsciousness.

The Grand Speaker yelled out, frustrated as he cancelled the simulation, watching the world around him fade, like a melting painting.
There was a robed man in the doorway.

"Co-Speaker" The Grand Speaker said, slightly shocked he decided to visit the Speaker before going to work.
The man looked around the simulation room, looking at the white blank panels that emitted the illusion. "Tu omev n'ghasta, it tu iln thadam.

"I would be happy if I won." The Speaker snarled back.

"But you can't. It's impossible odds." He glared at the Speaker angrily. "You spend hour after hour here trying to find some way that the Old Empire could've won, but there was no chance, even if the Emperor didn't die. It makes you angry, you can't concentrate, you can barely sleep based on your appearance. It's...almost distressing."

"I have to try to find a way!" He snapped. "I'm...I'm sorry, my friend. I have to find out, for my own personal peace. Please Tavthis, just go. I'll meet you in the Senate" The man slowly turned and left, shaking his head.

The Vvardeni stood in the empty white simulation room, tapping his left index finger against the helmet, thinking. Maybe Tavthis was right. Maybe they couldn't have won. But that would be an insult to the Grand Speaker's patriotism, as they were told by their parents from their parents and so on and so forth, that the Old Empire failed because it didn't react to the invasion quickly enough. If that was a lie, than that would devastate hope of restoring the Old Empire. But maybe that was what they needed. The other nations, however sinful their personalities did have some great ideas. Perhaps taking the best parts of them and leaving the rest would do. The Grand Speaker sighed hopelessly, and put on the helmet again.

[Promethius Prime]

Top Headlines
Courtesy of

The ZetaResh News Corporation

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Diplomats Dispatched Overseas

"The Minister to the Foreign Office, the
Markgraf von Ulrics announces today
that diplomats have been sent to
Columbia, Laurentia, Samakia, Vvarden,
46566, and Saratoga."

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Government to Invest in Updated
Infrastructure

"The government has today announced
substantial plans for investment in the
Empire's infrastructure, including new
roads, airports, and rail lines."

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Military Issues the New ICAR-1 Series
Assault Rifle

"The newly developed ICAR-1 pattern of
assault rifle has now been issued to the
military as the standard issue service
rifle across all services."

Welcome to the ZetaResh News Corporation Hub, where you can read all the latest news from the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem. The ZetaResh News Corporation has been broadcasting and publishing since the twelfth era and has remained one of the principle Arcadian and Troden news corporations ever since, publishing the most widely circulating newspaper in the country as well as the most watched 24 hour news channel. The ZRNC is incorporated in the IMA of Geddon, and operates out of its headquarters within the city; for more information about the ZRNC and its parent company ZetaResh Incorporated you can visit us online or contact us directly via telephone, post, or email.

Diplomats Dispatched Overseas
The Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics announces today that diplomats have been sent to Columbia, Laurentia, Samakia, Vvarden, 46566, and Saratoga.

The Markgraf von Ulrics, Chief Minister to
the Foreign Office.

The Markgraf, Julian von Ulrics, Chief Minister to the Foreign Office today announced in a press statement that he would be dispatching diplomats to all the key nations of Yukon in an effort to build renewed relations and establish Trodenhiem's position within the international community once more. Thus far diplomats have been dispatched to Columbia, Laurentia, Samakia, Vvarden, 46566, and Saratoga and the stated intention of these envoys is to establish embassies and consulates so as to facilitate future relations with these countries with much greater efficiency. No clear foreign policy objective has yet been stated beyond the establishment of relations, however the Markgraf did make clear that the government and his office in particular were keeping a close watch on global developments and particularly those centred around the Weeping Sea. Up to now the government's policy has been rather isolationist, with the main priority being on internal growth and development rather than international affairs and this is the largest and most significant foreign policy move in some time.

Initial analysis of the decision seems to imply that the government is hoping to send out feelers to establish the mood and attitude of the foreign powers towards Trodenhiem, and only once sufficient information has been collected will a set of specific goals be set out. What is clear is that the government has yet to form its own opinions on the foreign powers around the Weeping Sea and as a result it is clearly hoping to build up some idea of each nation's priorities. If the Markgraf's previous record is anything to go by it would seem unlikely that any rapid decisions will be made which could mean a slow and almost stagnant development of foreign policy as many of the government's detractors fear - however those experts with a more favourable view of the Chief Minister to the Foreign Office maintain that the Markgraf's approach is both pragmatic and cautious.

Eidrich Inger one of ZRNC's chief foreign policy consultants had the following to say on the subject: "The Markgraf is clearly hoping to engage in the necessary business of establishing initial international relations without jumping the proverbial gun and making a declared statement of intent. He is a known student of history and no doubt he will have studied the foreign policy mistakes and missteps of the former Arcadian Reich and Union of Arcadian States; therefore it seems clear to me that his position and approach on this matter is heavily influenced by this study and knowledge. Both the Reich and the Union rushed into foreign entanglements and treaties for short term benefit without considering the long term consequences. The result was the collapse of the old Commonwealth of Yukon after its apparent victory over SUN, and the ultimate downfall of the Union as a combined result of economic collapse and a ruinous war in Herargon. There is simply no good reason why the Foreign Office should rush into anything or declare its intent with regards to specific countries, to do so now would muddy the waters unnecessarily and colour the view those nations have of Trodenhiem from the start."

Government to Invest in Updated Infrastructure
The government has today announced substantial plans for investment in the Empire's infrastructure, including new roads, airports, and rail lines.

The Baron von Noinen, Chief Minister to
the Development Office.

Shortly after the Markgraf von Ulrics' foreign policy statement, the Baron von Noinen announced the government's fresh plans to upgrade and extend the Empire's infrastructure through a process of prolonged and extensive investment. This plan will see billions of Reichsmarks invested into constructing new roads, rail lines, air ports, and sewage systems as well as further investment to improve, repair, and replace existing infrastructure throughout the nation. The plans as laid out by the Baron von Noinen, who has only recently been appointed Chief Minister to the Development Office, show that the government intends to begin its infrastructural development and investment program within the IMA and SEZs, it will then steadily spread outwards into the provinces following a logical pattern which focuses first on connecting the IMA and SEZs to one another with brand new highways and mag-lev rail lines. Following this the program will bleed out in an arterial fashion to have roads and rails connect all of the major towns and cities to the new and improved network.

In addition to transit upgrades and sewers the program has a substantial budget for the rolling out of high speed broadband throughout the nation; the key cities, SEZs, and IMA already have such high speed internet access; however many of the more remote areas out in the provinces do not, thanks largely to the poor cost:profit ratio for private enterprises which has hampered growth in this area. The government therefore seems to have taken it upon itself to roll out high speed internet connections for the entire nation using its own money and resources. The high speed cables are going to spread out from the SEZs along the line of major road and rail links and, in the same fashion as the transit network, will spread in an arterial fashion until every home within the Empire can boast a high speed wired internet connects. Some critics have questioned the necessity of such a project with the growth of wireless connectivity which negates the need for a hard line connection; however the Baron von Noinen made it clear that the government believes it is better to have the physical infrastructure there, than to rely upon complex systems of wireless communication to connect the entire nation.

((OOC: Expending 2 Tech Points to develop ICAR-1. 2 Tech Points to develop M21 Sidearm. 5 Tech Points to develop Mk1 Armour. 10 Tech Points to develop M2 Groundhog. Details can be found here.))

[Croxoco]

DELETED

[Onza]

I

"Are you ready for the check?" asked the thin lady with a rather timid demeanor, as the man in the plush booth nodded inattentively.

The waitress was an average height, but unusually thin Onzaian lady whose hair suggested a noteworthy but unsuccessful attempt to contain. Her teeth had lost much of their whiteness and were dull and in color, while her face had wrinkles that were unusual for a woman ten years her senior.

The dismissive gesture wasn't anything unusual for her - she had made a career, if you'd call it that, out of working in small diners around the Emirates. This was the first one that she had found where she did not face constant unwelcome advances from the managers - something that when she complained about she was told that it was an expected side effect of working in the food service industry.

Patatas Bravas was the name of it - a franchise based in La Republica de Merida, a lawless nation (although legally an Onzaian territory) adjacent to Onza that is constantly feeding criminals and drugs over the border. Still, Patatas Bravas' food was cheap enough and good enough to be viewed with complacency by local politicians who had gone after other Meridian businesses. "They're taking our jobs," the Onzaians cried, "they're taking our money!" Yet those very protesters could be seen in Patatas Bravas every Wednesday night for the restaurant's specials on margaritas and the like.

"Zuri!" shouted a masculine voice from the back of the diner. "Zuri, your food is up!" it shouted again with audible agitation. Zuri looked around to gauge how many people witnessed or cared to witness the embarrassing scene, but to her relief and surprise, the diners seemed to remain detached. She made her way to the kitchen where the plate of rajas con crema was sitting in the heat window.

"Zuri, hurry up and get the food out - this one is not meant to sit in the window for too long," the man said. Zuri hesitated but grabbed the plate anyways as the heat of the ceramic burned her fingertips to the point of a stinging pain. She struggled to hold back the grimace of pain as she rushed to the booth where the diners were seated, only to find that they had already left. She quickly placed the plate onto the table, trying to strike a balance between the urgency that was created by the heat of the plate and the need to look put together in front of the other patrons. Her fingertips were blood red and burned just from the mild heat in the air. She went back to the kitchen.

"Mr. Belasco, the diners left," she said in an agitated tone hoping that it would elicit his sympathy rather than his scorn. "Didn't even bother to cancel the order, they just upped and left," she said trying to fill in the silence that permeated the conversation.

"Zuri," he began calmly. "We both know exactly why those paying customers left without paying! It's because you were their server! How come this never happens to my other waitresses, huh? Care to share your theory on that? Because my theory is that you have no idea how to treat the customer," he said, with his voice growing louder and louder as she drew near the end of his diatribe. "If you think those people are going to come back, you're dead wrong, and I am tired of these innocent mistakes costing me business. Cash out, pay their tab, and go home for the day," he commanded.

Zuri struggled to hold back tears during the berating. It felt as if all of the blood in her face rushed back to her heart, where it all gathered to radiate a dull and empty pain. Not only were her abilities dismissed, but she was humiliated in front of the entire staff. As she went to leave the restaurant, putting every bit of cash she had in her pocket towards paying the tab, she noticed customers looking at her and whispering amongst themselves, sometimes to the response of laughter and in others the response of disgusted grimaces.

She got in her car - a dilapidated hatchback with the driver door being a different color from the rest of the vehicle - and cried. It didn't take much to reduce such a fragile soul into questioning its existence; something that she did quite frequently. In all of these times of suffering, however, there was one solution that she found to all of her problems, at least for a while.

She pulled up slowly to the corner of Al-Malik and Al-Khalifa - two streets which ironically got their names from busy boulevards in the capital city, Kunta - and scanned the dimly lit alleys for a particular individual. After a few minutes of scanning, a black SUV slowly pulled out of one of the larger alleys and pulled up the corner. She checked to make sure nobody else was around and approached.

"The usual?" the man asked from the darkness of his vehicle's cabin. Even though it was daytime, the particular placement of the highway overpass as well as the tall warehouse buildings made this location dark during all but the brightest of hours. Zuri nodded slowly and handed the man a large stack of cash - a stack that was banded, interestingly. The man skimmed through the stack of bills. "You thieving bitch," he said as he began to smile. "Here, take a sample while you're at it, for creativity if nothing else," he said as he handed her two small plastic baggies, one with white powder and one with pink and blue pills. "You know I don't do pills, right?" she said to the man. Without a word, he rolled up his window and the SUV slowly pulled off.

---

II

The sight of the sun setting on the city of Kigali was possibly the only sight in Kigali that anyone accustomed to civilization could appreciate. The sun's beauty was exemplified by the sight of the desert sands that appeared just beyond the skyline of the only three skyscrapers in the city - the police department's office building, a high-rise set of apartments that would be prime real estate were it not for the decay resulting from rampant drug use, and finally the corporate HQ of Patatas Bravas.

Overall the city of Kigali meant nothing to everyone else in Onza except for two groups - the cartels running out of La Republica de Merida and hotshot police officers looking to make a career case out of the city. Naturally, the two groups had a burning hatred for one another, and perhaps a bit of respect for making either's job more interesting than it would be without opposition. Interestingly, however, run-ins between the two groups were extraordinarily rare - for years KPD had arrested street level dealers in hopes of convincing them to flip on their higher ups, but not one ever did, and as time went on, the dealers become more wary of police tactics and were able to do business more discretely.

Drugs found their way into Kigali rather easily given that the city is considered the last frontier between civilized Onza and the Merida - a territory annexed by Onza as a big PR stunt by the former President to win the support of Meridian immigrants in the election as well as to earn some friends abroad with messages of "human rights" and "peacekeeping operations."

KPD's building in Kigali was actually a building for an OCNA (Onza Central News Agency) outlet that was pulled for reasons unspecified, but in an effort to send the message that organized crime was coming to an end, the department managed to acquire the building for their own use. What they instead succeeded in doing was making Kigali a threatening word for police officers in other large cities. Officers accused of brutality, stupidity, or just dislike from their superiors were sent to inhabit the vast office spaces of the KPD's building where they did nothing other than process paperwork all day.

Still, that was only half of the force. The other half were those in narcotics - officers who knew the ticket out of the city was to make a big bust in the city known for its ruthless and impenetrable drug industry. This is what brought Detective Mayeso Tendaji to Kigali - the desire to break a career case and get out of dodge before the cartels began to ramp up their efforts.

"Dispatch to Tendaji," a female voice crackled over the radio in the unmarked car. "Go ahead for Tendaji," the officer responded. "We have a code 19 at a warehouse down at the shipyard just off of Janan Circle." Tendaji sighed, cranked up his car, and then responded. "Roger that dispatch, I'm on it."

Tendaji was definitely a youth in his heart, which often led to him getting clumped in with other beat cops trying to make it big on the narcotics scene. This generalization was unfair, though, at least in his mind, because he had served as a detective for the NSIA (National Surveillance and Investigation Agency) for a few years. To him, his bar fight back in Kunta with a few other officers was not severe enough to warrant being sent to Kigali, but he learned to stop pleading his case to those around him in order to avoid risking not being taken seriously.

Arriving at the scene, there were numerous police cruisers all over the place with lights on, a few police vans, a helicopter hovering overhead beaming a spotlight down, and even a few black SUVs. "So this was big enough to wake the federales, huh?" he said to the approaching officer as he got out of his car. "We're looking at six dead, three in critical condition, and a few who fled the scene when we got here." "So definitely multiple shooters?" "For sure, at least a hundred bullet casings and shells have been found so far, forensics isn't letting anybody get too close at the moment."

Tendaji stepped under the police tape and walked towards the center of the scene where several men were taking pictures of the bodies. "What're you thinking, Tendaji?" asked another man wearing a trench coat as he approached. The man was older, but still spoke as though he were middle-aged. "I'm surprised you got out of bed to come here, Detective Okoro." "You must not have been around your radio when it got called in - every department in the city was trying to dispatch units and claim jurisdiction." "So who's it going to, then?" "Who do you think?" he asked while laughing. "Ah, okay then. So what do you have so far?"

"Well, it's definitely a code 19 - the van that was hit was full of known cartel associates, and we found some coke in the back." "So we know it wasn't robbery, then?" "Probably not. It's hard to tell if the stash has been tampered with - assholes must have rammed the van before attacking, everything in there is a mess." "So an ambush then? That's unusual to be unprompted, I thought cartel animosity was calming down."

"It doesn't look very calm to me," said Okoro as he smiled and walked away. "I'll talk to the guys when they wake up in the hospital," shouted Tendaji. "Good luck getting anything out of them," said Okoro as he got in his car.

Tendaji examined the scene for a roughly a half hour, not finding much other than what he was already told. When he snapped back into reality, he realized that the bodies had already been lifted, and that nearly everybody was gone. "Detective, I don't think there's much left here for you to look at," said one of the forensic officers. "You don't say," replied Tendaji sarcastically. As he approached his car, he noticed a black SUV sitting across the street. His mind went to the feds first. "But why would one unit still be here?" he wondered to himself. As he withdrew his keys from his car door and faced the vehicle, the SUV quietly pulled off and raced away.

[The Landfish Colonies]

A New Dawn
Gavanay
Revolutionary Square
Socialist People's Republic of Samakia

The room was dark, and filled with smoke, the stench of tobacco surrounding the three man gathered about a small poker table. The only light source aside from the partially opened windows were the orange embers, crackling on the ends of fat cigars, flickering in between puffs of white smoke. Above the occasional clink of a whiskey glass was the muffled sound of the Party Anthem, and the murmur of crowds outside. The soft roar of heavy engines could also be heard, as the smell of diesel wafted through the room.

"How much longer do we have?" One of the men asked. He was young, in his early 30s, with tanned skin, a wiry black beard, his dark hair pushed off his face. A pair of aviators were tucked into the breast pocket of his military uniform, reflecting the mid afternoon sun from outside.

"Not long, comrade." The second young man said, dark skinned, a fresh faced, wearing a similar uniform. The young General Secretary, Tymeo Bankole, as still in his late 20s, but wise beyond his years, partly thanks to the third man at the table. An old man, dark wrinkled skin and curly white hair and beard. Unlike the two uniformed men, the old man, Doctor Ayo Okeke wore a proper suit. He sat quietly, enjoying his drink as he examined his cards. "Someone will be up for us any minute now. Then we'll get going."

The second young man nodded, curling up his own cards to take a look. He took a minute to think, before grunting. He blew a puff of smoke over the table before throwing his cards away. "I'm done with this." He hissed, his voice muffled slightly by his cigar.

"Come now, Comrade Turay." The old man announced calmly, "You'll win someday. At least, for your sake I hope you do."

"Shut up, doctor." The young man snarled, downing the rest of his whiskey before rocking the table as he brought the glass back down. Bankole just chuckled to himself. Anthony Turay, as good a friend as he was, had a tendency to be a bit hot headed. Once a Major and arms manufacturer for the Republican Army, Comrade Turay had been one of the first officers to defect, joining the Revolutionary movement. That had been years ago, but still felt like it had been just yesterday.

"Well, I suppose it's about time we rapped this up, eh?" Bankole raised an eyebrow at the Doctor, pushing the rest of his chips forward. The Doctor just sighed, doing the same. Bankole may have changed since the revolution, and Turay certainly had, but the Doctor seemed to have remained the same. Old, wise and seemingly in a constant state of relaxation.

The game was interrupted by a knock on the door, and a soldier peaked through, "Comrade Bankole," The soldier said, "We are ready."

"Thank you comrade." Bankole smiled, before rising from the table, straightening his uniform. The other men did the same, Dr. Okeke dusting off his suit, and Anthony Turay, slipping on his aviators. Bankole drank the last of his whiskey before placing the empty glass back on his coaster. He reached down to his cards and flipped them. A decent hand, a flush. He looked up expectantly to the doctor, who was in the process of putting out his cigar. The old man just sighed, flipping his own cards, revealing a he had himself a royal flush.

"Better luck next time, my young friend." Okeke said, straight faced, "You may pay me later, but now we must go." The trio marched out of the room, following the soldier. He lead them along a dimly lit hallway, the sound of the crowd getting ever louder as they approached a set of wooden double doors. Two more soldiers awaited them, swinging the doors open as the men approached, leading them out onto a balcony above the capitol city of Gavanay's main road. Not far in the distance, the waters of the Bay of Baako glistened under the bright sun. Monsoon season was just around the corner, but for now, the view was breathtaking. But what first demanded the eye's attention was the procession below; a parade of tanks, vehicles and men marching in unison to the beat of the National Anthem. A podium sat at the head of the balcony, and as Bankole approached, the crowd of civilians roared, the soldiers stopped to salute as the General Secretary waved at his countrymen.

"Comrades!" Bankole began, as the crowds began to settle, "It has been one year, since we gained our true independence. Freed ourselves from the oppression of the capitalist system, that once sought to enslave us. With our blood, we broke our chains, with out lives, we bought out liberty. And now, from the ashes of our past, we rise again, a Samaki nation, for a UNITED, Samak People!" The crowd cheered and whistled, some lined on the streets, others standing in the windows of their rundown apartment buildings across the way, listening to the General Secretary's Voice boom through the microphone.

"For years, we were a broken people. We were shunted, oppressed. Expelled from our homeland, only to return as slaves! But that time is no longer! We have risen from the earth anew! More powerful then ever before! Now, those who wish to divide us, will here our voice! Those who wish to conquer our lands, shall see us act as one! The Samak will Overcome!"

Government Activity
Samakian Government to Invest in Technological Research

In hopes of keeping up on the international playing field, the Samakian Government had made announced plans to invest in technological research. Chairman of the National Assembly, Anthony Turay proclaimed that keeping a technological edge on neighboring nations is a matter of national security, and one of the utmost importance, in a potentially turbulent international environment. The majority of research planned, while not yet specifically laid out, are expected to go towards weapons research, and the further modernization of the People's Revolutionary Army (PRA; The Armed Forces branch of the Samakian Communist Party.)

Trodenhiem Diplomats Welcomed into the Samakian Capitol

Trodenhiem diplomats arrived in the Coastline Capitol of the Samakian Republic in the height of Victory Day Festivities, as locals celebrated triumph in the nations recent civil war, and the rise to power of the Communist Party. While set to make several addresses over the day, General Secretary Tymeo Bankole took time out of his schedule to meet with foreign diplomats. He has announced interest in establishing embassies with Trodenhiem, and any other foreign power capable/interested in supporting the Samakian cause, or nations wishing simply establish friendly relations.

On the foreign front, the Socialist People's Republic of Samakia (SPRS) has expressed the interest of selling it's goods on an international level. Products such as quality Samakian Tobacco, Coffee, and Silk, as well as Oil, Iron, Cotton, Timber and Silicon. As of now, all uranium products produced within the SPRS, weapons grade or otherwise, are not on offer.

PRA Navy conducts War Games

Operations Area in Yellow

The first Samakian battle group, including the aircraft carrier The Shamballe, have been deployed to conduct war games, and anti-piracy training, of the coast of the Samak Islands. Training will include ship to ship tactics, as well as Marine Forces training missions, predominantly raids and boarding operations.

Similar training operations will continue for the next three months, eventually to include submarines and aerial assets.

[46566]

Pro Samakia rally held
Midgar- The Communist party has held a pro Samakia rally within the Grand Duchy of 46566. The Communist party seeks to have the Grand Duke to open ties with the Communist nation south of the Grand Duchy. They wish to open trade and the change of diplomatic relations with the hope of the establishment of embassies between each nation. While not the strongest party in the Imperial senate they have been the most vocal in trying to get the Grand Duke to open up talks with the country to the south. At this time the Grand Duchy has yet to officaly announce which countries the Grand Duchy will open up ties with.

Grand Duke will meet Personally with Diplomats from Trodenhiem
Midgar- The Grand Duke will personally meet with the diplomats sent to the Grand Duchy by the Empire of Trodenhiem. The Grand Duke has already agreed to allow a Embassy and consulates to be established within the country. The meeting is meant to allow the diplomats access to the highest person in state and to help discuss maters in a more direct matter and to state what the Grand Duke would like between the two countries. The talk is going to cover a variety of issues ranging from trade and Non aggression to spheres of influence. Also being brought up by the Grand Duke is the discussion of a possible working together in subjects of joint interest and agreement to non intervention in affairs not directly interfering in each nations interests.

Grand Duke decides to send delegations to the following countries
Midgar- The Grand Duke has officially sent ambassadors to the following nations:
Samakia
COLUMBIA
Vvarden
Trodenhiem
Saratoga

The diplomatic team sent to Trodenhiem is expected to be sent back with the diplomatic team sent back from their initial visit to the Grand Duchy. The diplomatic team will speak for the Grand Duke and sent any official document back to the Grand Duke to sign or reject. Under the constitution any treaty involving trade and trade policy must be agreed upon by the Imperial Senate.

The remaining diplomatic teams are looking to open initial talks and formal recognition of each government and to open talks on further corporation between each country. Of particular interest in the recent war games by the Samakia government. The Grand Duchy would like the option of joint military training between each country and maybe a establishment of a periodic joint military training. Maybe the expansion of officer exchange programs could be created to further help train each nations officers in other modes of fighting.

[Vvarden]

There was a procession nearby, of chanting priests wearing ornately coloured robes entering the large Temple of Universal Truth, with churchgoers and tourists walking in behind them. Saveela approached them, blending into the crowd, when suddenly she heard a voice behind her. She looked behind her and saw a tall half-Vvardeni with a big smile and brown eyes. It was a work colleague, Flint.

Flint was half-Vvardeni, the bastard child of a Herardeni tourist who enchanted a woman and never saw her again after he gave in to his desires, though Flint never seemed to see it from the negative. "At least," He'd say "I'd blend in with a Herardeni crowd."

He raced to catch her “Hold on, hold on.”
Saveela sighed and greeted him. He was not supposed to be here.
"What are you doing here?" She asked.

Flint smiled "That's some greeting. I'm here to see the High Priest. You?"
"Same." Saveela replied.

"You don't look like you've been here before." Flint spoke, digging his hands into the pockets of his yellow trench coat, possibly in reaction of the crispness of the evening. Saveela smiled and replied.
"No, I'm usually skeptical of the church. I'm just here because I'm curious."
"Well, who knows, perhaps you'd be amazed. Universali Vvar is a very interesting religion."
He smiled and led her to a small copper pot near the doors. They waited as an elderly couple ahead pulled out two amulets and wore them. Flint then plucked an amulet and turned to her “Go ahead, take one.”

“I told you. I’m not very religious.” She said a bit frustrated.
He laughed, “You have to take one before going in.”

"Does everyone in Zoroshthurvan have one?"
“Hmm, some people I guess. But most people in Zoroshthurvan don’t come to Temple often. Maybe only a few times in their lives. I grew up in Orvamus, by the coast. It’s rather traditional there, despite the massive foreign population. We attended every month.”
“The services are held monthly?”
“Yeah, on the full moon actually!” He made as if howling like a wolf and smiled. She loved him just for that smile.

She hadn't wanted to fall in love with him at work, never expected to meet him here, but the Universe moved in mysterious ways. She felt a sharp pang in her chest. Her heart raced and a voice cried in her head, "Don't! Don't!"

They walked through the great wooden doors of the Temple of Universal Truth in Zoroshthurvan and immediately entered into a colossal chamber. Pillars stretching up into the sky surrounded the circular room, and people could barely see the roof. In the center was a circular stone, several steps above the main floor. In the center of that lay a large glass rectangle, with a small black granite-like stone in the corner. Great tapestries lay on every wall, telling the story of the Vvardeni and their faith, murals of the first Vvardeni formed from lakeside water-foam, murals of the first High Priests leading the Vvardeni to the Lake of Creation, after being exiled from realms seeing the new faith as a threat, murals of the Vvardeni settling in the ruins of the cities of the former empires, creating prosperous city states, murals of the Vokun conquest, ending Vvardeni self-rule for half a century, murals of the Vokun Emperor Quaygaris converting to Universali Vvar, murals of the Emperor-Under-Universe Ralos I who united the Vvardeni states when the Vokun collapsed, murals of the discovery of the Stone at the bottom of the Lake of Creation, and finally murals of the destruction of Zoroshthurvan and the final charge of the Last Emperor.

Ahead, Saveela saw the High Priest read out passages from the original book of the Universali Sacred Writings, created two thousand years ago in a dead language only the High Priests can understand. Of course, the High Priest translated it, as it would be useless to speak passages of a speech nobody knows.

...."And so since the Beginning the Deni were pure. They grew and prospered, not physical beings but spiritual ones, but soon their sins, greed, lack of judgement, slothfulness, pride and lust, manifested, and the Deni split in wroth, causing mountains to rise and seas to shrink. Landmasses changed because of their sin, and in the end, the fragments of the Deni exiled themselves to different continents and worlds, where they remain today, becoming physical in the process. The Vvardeni were the first and only to stick to the truth of science, reason and faith. The others focused only on faith or science. Yet one day, when the Universe decides, they will know the truth, but until then, we must not go to war against them for their faith, or to enslave them or convert them. Let them hear our voices and come to us, and then they will know..."

By now the crowd was thick. Close to a thousand people lined up inside of the building. Saveela decided she was going to do it, but she had to go away from Flint, hopefully he would be saved. She pushed her way through the crowd, nearing the front where the High Priest sat, the people around Saveela getting more richer and more ornately dressed the closer she went. Finally she stopped. Out the corner of her eye she saw Flint move closer. Saveela had to make sure Flint would be spared from what she was about to do, and that meant doing it as quickly as possible. She pulled her cell phone out and dialed. Before Flint could protest she detonated in an amazing blast of light and fire.


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zoroshthurvan News Service: Foreign Edition

Tel Indrar Officially Established,
Mining Facilities Currently Under
Construction. Local Fisheries Expanding

"The Tel Indrar settlement has been
fully established in the Dulo Isles
the facility provides a local
military base, fishing port and construction
base for the development of offshore
underwater mining complexes. The city was
recently built to help the population
expansion occurring in Vvarden"

---

Grand Senate Condemns Samak Wargames

"The Grand Speaker officially condemns the
wargames taking place near the claimed
territory of the Dulo Isles, declaring it "an
act of aggression and an action that will
only raise tensions". Tensions have hit their
heighest in several years since the rise of the
Socialist People's Republic of Samakia from
the former capitalist nation."

Top Headline: Temple of Eternal Truth Destroyed in Suicide Bombing

Tonight at approximately 7:15pm a bomb was detonated in the middle of a procession in the Temple of Universal Truth in Zoroshthurvan's central district. At this point the death toll stands at 965 while there are 918 people wounded, 129 of which are in a critical condition, including the High Priest Magnus XI. Many of the later casualties were caused when its southern tower weakened by the explosion collapsed into the plaza, killing over a hundred rescue workers. In a video released after the attack, an armed militia Vokun-Vvardeni group named "Garlas Malatar" claimed responsibility for the attack and explained why Zoroshthurvan lies within it's cross hairs.

"This is an official message from Garlas Malatar to all Vvardeni that lurk in their backwards state, promoting sinful and decadent behaviour. Our organization has successfully made an attack in the heart of your city of immorality, your city of false priests and false texts. Long ago, the Vvardeni state was one of immense piety, and the Universe blessed us. After Ralos V, all that had changed. The Old Empire was wrapped in sin and immorality. I call upon every right minded Vvardeni to shatter the senate into ashes. Then we will usher a new Empire to light the world.

The terrorist group known as Garlas Malatar seek revenge for what they call aggression into isolated Vokun sparsely-populated areas such as Draahran. In the video the group lectured viewers about how artificial and sinful the Vvardeni state is. The group also claimed that the country's form of Universali Vvar religion is root of all sin in the world, and needs to be destroyed for progress into a state of spirituality. They also eventually seek the restoration of the Old Empire under their ruler, whose identity still has not been released. They have managed to gain a following among some Vokun based on the Senate's review of the video, which is not suprising given the heated nature of the recent protests for an independent Vokun state, a demand that the Senate strongly disagrees with.

The group also claims that the Senate underwent several massacres in the Draahran area, a claim that has been fervently denied by the Senate, and that there are plans to commit genocide on the people in the area because "they are not Vvardeni". The Grand Speaker has planned to make a speech to the Senate tomorrow morning concerning these recent events.


Diplomats Sent to Various Nations

The Foreign Affairs office has now sent out several diplomats to various countries after a long period of global isolation has now ended, sparking the beginning of a new, more connected world, and hopes that these diplomats chosen by the Senate will be able to improve the Restored Oligarchic Senate's prestige and help warm up nations to the Senate. The diplomats come from a scattered past, with some brought up to mixed race families and others born far from the cities and towns.

Lyrdelius Orilyon
The Grand Duchy

Lyrdelius Orilyon was born in Falsdstar and rose to political prominence early in his life whenever he was among the first to call for diplomatic relations with Vokun separatist groups. Always favoring diplomacy over hostility made Orilyon popular within the senate, and eventually allowed him to be the Vvarden's first official diplomat to the Grand Duchy.

Maduisie Lletathram
The United States of Colombia

Maduisie Lletathram was born and raised in Falsdstar, where she studied to become a Counselor. Recently, however, she studied International Diplomacy. She also has a deep fascination for other ways of life, and this affinity has made her perfect to be the the Restored Oligarchic Senate's first official diplomat to the United States of Columbia.

Thallasa Douthas
The Celestial Empire of Trodenheim

Senator Thallasa Douthas was born in Helovon, but moved to Zoroshthurvan a few years after her birth with her family, due to her father getting a job offer in the capital. A brilliant environmentalist, Douthas excelled in school, and has written a number of scientifically-renowned journals about agriculture and environmental preservation. She also made several improvements to Vvarden's systems of agriculture in harsh conditions, adapting the methods that the Vokun had been using for centuries beforehand, greatly improving crop yields and production, earning her a place in the senate. Her love for knowledge and improvements has allowed her to be the Restored Oligarchic Senate's first official diplomat to Trondheim.

Essu Iltunipitashu
Saratoga

Essu Iltunipitashu was born in Draahran to a migratory Vokun family, where he had lived practically almost all of his life. Iltunipitashu was frequently truant, and got in trouble for skipping the local schools, wherever they migrated to on several occasions to help his parents hunt and build tents for other memebers of the tribe. Eventually, however, Essu opted to attend a specialty school for economics where he quickly demonstrated an incredible ability to analyze financial figures under pressure. As a result, Essu became a prominent economist, which has allowed him to serve as the Senate's first official diplomat to Saratoga.

Jordan Adusethyl
The United Democratic Emirates of Onza

Speaker Jordan Adusethyl was born in Orvamus to an Onzaian-Vvardeni couple, where he studied law and worked as a lawyer for the city for many years. He was ranked number two in the nation on a list of the 500 Greatest Lawyers, earning him a place in the senate. He was also an immensely popular writer for sometime for his political works on democratic socialism and Vvarden during it's history during the Seven States period. His extensive ability to analyze data and debate has made him prominent in the senate, as well as qualifying him to serve as the Senate's first official diplomat to The United Democratic Emirates of Onza.

More news updates will occur shortly.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


"Garlas Malatar, you say they're called." The Grand Speaker spoke, slowly saying the words, bouncing them on his tongue. Around him was his fellow chancellors, his Speaker for Defence, Major Thorval Mavadil, his Speaker for Economics, A'lashari Ientnevanni, his Speaker for Citizen's Affairs, Relns Aradingi, his Speaker for Infrastructure, Etharvyne Tilnes, his Speaker for Foreign Affairs, Luaosi Telaandil, and finally his Co-Speaker and good friend, Tavthis Samarus.

"From an old Vvardeni phrase meaning "The strings will be severed", correct?" The Speaker walked slowly to his desk and sat down on the large chair where he did most of his administrative work. The Speaker looked troubled, a frown etched across his face, and his eyes became tired, as if feeling a heavy crown upon his head.

"That is correct, Grand Speaker," Thorval spoke, rubbing his pointed chin and scratching his stubble. "We've recently gained information from Saveela Arinari's computers at her place of residence and it seems she was contacted six years ago, and spent five of those years on a "Overseas business trip", no doubt a training camp."

"Universali Suo." The Grand Speaker spoke. "Tell me again how many were killed?"

The Speaker for Citizen's Affairs spoke up. "Close to a thousand, the High Priest hospitalized in a serious condition. The entire Temple's foundations were practically destroyed from the impact, it could collapse at any moment"
The Grand Speaker winced when he heard the number. "That is far too many," He placed his head in one of his hands for a moment and looked back up.

"Luaosi."

"Yes sir?" Came the light voice of the Speaker for Foreign Affairs.
"Let us seek help from the rest of Yukon. If any diplomat or foreign journalist asks, let them be briefed on what we know. Let the world know."
Luaosi nodded and walked out of the room.

"A'lashari, give 1% of the GDP to the anti-terrorism forces. We need to prevent any more events like this. Go with Thorval." The two nodded, made a small bow and left the room.

"Etharvyne, try to keep the building from collapsing. And make sure the Stone is removed." She too nodded and exited the room, leaving behind only Tavthis.

"Tavthis. I need your help." The Grand Speaker said.
Tavthis stood up from the small couch, nodded and spoke "Anything. Anything for a friend."
The Grand Speaker smiled slightly and his face went back to the withdrawn nature he had before.
"I need your help battling my personal demons. Especially with this news."

"Do you want me to send a therapist?" Tavthis asked concerned. It wasn't the first time he had seen his superior become immensely tired of his job, and also somewhat disturbed inside. Tavthis always helped in his friendly way, but this time the Grand Speaker looked more forlorn than usual.

The Grand Speaker raised his hand in opposition. "No. No Tavthis. You stay here. I need to tell you something, something about the Garlas Malatar." He sighed and then spoke what he felt needed to be said.
"I joined them once." The Grand Speaker confessed.

"It was back when they only targeted Herardeni politicians. I never did anything, apart from throw a rock at a high ranking official." The Speaker noticed his friend's surprise as Tavthis approached the desk and so he spoke in reason. "What was I to do? My parents were arrested and killed for being enemies of the state! What was I to do? Now...now they've turned away from them, and targeted their own fellow countrymen." The Grand Speaker put his head in his hands. "What if I...encouraged them when I left to go after me? They knew my bloodline. They knew I was the only one left that wasn't killed. They knew. What if...what if all this is to get back at me?" The Speaker looked up at Tavthis placed a hand on the desk.

"Tell me I did no wrong."
"You didn't do anything. It was...it was a long time ago, you've no reason to be upset over it. People make mistakes sometimes."
"But I do all the time, Tavthis. I just can't help thinking that those thousand died because of me. And that is far too much to die." The Speaker got out of his chair and crumpled down on one of the lounges nearby, Tavthis sitting opposite him.
"You don't know what it's like, having a nation out there relying on you alone, the senate, the people, relying on you. This is the first time in centuries our species has been united once again. Do you know what it's like? All of them, relying on me, me! ME!" The Speaker paused for a second, then he spoke again "And now something like this happens, who knows what'll happen next? Will the empire dissolve into petty warlords clinging to their fiefs like before?"

"It isn't all on you, Ralos Nivastar tred Zorosh. The people rely on us. The people rely on the council. The people rely on the senate. It isn't just you. Look, you must stop putting yourself responsible. Every time something happens, you feel feel the blame for it. You aren't the cause. You are not responsible. You are a brilliant person, and you should not be like this. This is coincidence. The things you've done do not outweigh the benefits you've caused. You've united our once scattered race into the ruins of their former capital. We've done a great many things, you have to make us even greater, my friend. The fates spin men's lives..."
"What was may come again." The Grand Speaker finished his friend's sentence.
"Thank you. I must leave now. I need to sleep." He said with deep gratitude, shortly before the two departed for their different rooms. The Speaker would need his rest so he could construct his speech to the senate in

[Promethius Prime]

Top Headlines
Sponsored by

Brought To You By
The ZetaResh News Corporation

---

Foreign Affairs Update

"Diplomats from the Grand Duchy and
Vvarden are received in Geddon.
Meanwhile Troden diplomats set to
work in the Grand Duchy, Vvarden,
and Samakia."

---

Government Update on the New
Infrastructural Improvements

"A formal press statement updates the
nation on the present status of the new
infrastructural improvement project,
including approval of plans for the
'Geddon Spiral'."

---

Renovation of Royal Properties

"A comprehensive renovation project
for all existing royal properties has
been announced today. Significant
government investment in repair and
upkeep has been confirmed."

Welcome to the ZetaResh News Corporation Hub, where you can read all the latest news from the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem. The ZetaResh News Corporation has been broadcasting and publishing since the twelfth era and has remained one of the principle Arcadian and Troden news corporations ever since, publishing the most widely circulating newspaper in the country as well as the most watched 24 hour news channel. The ZRNC is incorporated in the IMA of Geddon, and operates out of its headquarters within the city; for more information about the ZRNC and its parent company ZetaResh Incorporated you can visit us online or contact us directly via telephone, post, or email.

Foreign Affairs Update
Diplomats from the Grand Duchy and Vvarden are received in Geddon. Meanwhile Troden diplomats set to work in the Grand Duchy, Vvarden, and Samakia.

Andrej Weiss, senior diplomat to Samakia.

In a rapid response from the governments of the Grand Duchy and Samakia Troden diplomats have been welcomed and allowed to set to work establishing relations. A Foreign Office press release announced the news early this morning along with a statement of hope that reasonable relations could be established on a tentative basis. This marks the first time in over a decade that a large number of diplomatic delegations have been sent abroad, and is the first sign that the present government under His Imperial Majesty is starting to break with its old isolationist policies. The rapid welcoming of the diplomats by the Grand Duchy and Samakia is considered to be a promising sign for the future of relations with these countries, however the Markgraf von Ulrics, Chief Minister to the Foreign Office was quick to point out that no negotiations or agreements had been initiated yet in a move seen as characteristic of the man's pragmatic and conservative attitude. Nonetheless according to reports from inside the Foreign Office the mood among junior ministers and civil servants is one of mixed relief and jubilation and the numerous departments continue to eagerly await word from their other delegations sent to Vvarden, Laurentia, Saratoga, and Columbia.

Grand Duchy Update!
The diplomatic mission to the Grand Duchy is being led by a respected Junker, Herr Koelles, who has served as an analyst and advisor within the Foreign Office for the last twelve years. Though he has little direct diplomatic experience he is one of the most qualified and well educated diplomats within the Office thanks to his lengthy period of study at the Imperial University in Geddon. Following his arrival in the Grand Duchy, and the warm welcome offered to him by their officials and the Grand Duke himself, the Foreign Office announced that the principle goal of the diplomatic mission was to form an embassy and consular exchange and to broach the subjects of mutual trading agreements, immigration and customs agreements, educational exchanges, and an extradition treaty.

However the foreign policy goals of Trodenhiem are not the only ones which have been relayed to the press in the past few hours; toward the end of today's press statement on the subject the spokesman for the Foreign Office stated that the Grand Duchy itself had already forwarded very initial proposals for the formation of a non-aggression treaty and a pact of spheres of influence. While the Foreign Office has not announced its reaction to these proposals as yet it seems clear that they are hopeful with regards to the future of diplomatic ties to the Grand Duchy.

In a later statement to the press, released at 3pm this afternoon the Foreign Office spokesman announced that diplomats from the Grand Duchy had arrived in Geddon earlier in the day, and had met with the Markgraf von Ulrics who has arranged for an audience with the Emperor. No precise word on the status or intentions of the Grand Duchy's diplomats has been given, however initial political discussion and conjecture by leading experts centres around the probability that the team intends to help establish direct communications with Trodenhiem's government, and begin the process of establishing embassies and consulates throughout the Celestial Empire. If this is indeed the case then it may soon be that the Emperor and his ministers will be able to directly communicate with the government of the Grand Duchy over key matters of state.

Samakia Update!
The diplomatic mission to Samakia is led by Andrej Weiss, a key political theorist and respected academic who formerly worked for the Imperial University in Geddon and has published a number of books on native Taran culture as well as foreign affairs. Like most other Troden diplomats he has little direct diplomatic experience, however his numerous published works and place of high esteem within the Empire's intellectual community have made him a popular choice both within the Foreign Office and with the press. Upon his arrival in Samakia he was welcomed during the Victory Day Parade which celebrated an end to the Samakian Civil War, and subsequently arranged to meet with Samakian officials in the capital of Gavanay where the General Secretary, Tymeo Bankole, was kind enough to take time out from his schedule to provide a formal welcome. Following this the Foreign Office has announced that the goal of the mission is to establish a direct line of communication with the Samakian government, as well as an embassy and consular exchange; however no plans for further relations have been announced at this time.

Many commentators and experts are now speculating that the diplomatic mission to Samakia is being made as a form of international damage control, in order to avoid a war between Trodenhiem and Samakia, following the successful rise of the Communist Party there. The fact that the details given on the diplomatic mission to Samakia's goal have so far been minimal has only led strength to this argument. If the government's previous policy with relation to Communism is anything to go by it seems likely that Samakia-Troden relations will be frosty at best - especially given the vast ideological differences between the two nations with Trodenhiem being an Empire with a religious mandate and Samakia being a nation which now claims to follow an atheistic and proletarian path. Concerns have been raised by detractors and opponents of the present government that the Ulrics Foreign Office is too narrow minded in its approach and that perhaps a live and let live policy would be more favourable especially when Samakia has such an abundance of natural resources with which to trade, however the Markgraf has dismissed such statements as 'foolish and unrealistic.'


Vvarden Update!
No formal word has yet been released on the status of the diplomatic team which has been sent to Vvarden, however a small team of Vvardeni diplomats have arrived in Geddon led by Senator Thallasa Douthas. The Senator was promptly met by the Markgraf von Ulrics and a meeting with the Emperor has been arranged to follow in due course. While the Vvardeni have yet to announce their precise goals and intentions with regards to diplomacy with Trodenhiem the Foreign Office today released a statement of its own intent in this regard. In the statement the Foreign Office outlined its plans to offer the Vvardeni government a series of mutual trading agreements, immigration and customs agreements, educational exchanges, and an extradition treaty. In addition it has been stated that plans are already underway to provide the Vvardeni with a suitable place to establish their embassy within Geddon.

---

Government Update on the New Infrastructural Improvements
A formal press statement updates the nation on the present status of the new infrastructural improvement project, including approval of plans for the 'Geddon Spiral'.

The Geddon Spiral.

In the latest government update on the massive infrastructural development programme which is taking place it has been announced that a number of key designs and plans have now been approved for the construction of vast multi-line high speed rail links which use the latest in mag-lev technology for their operation. Initial plans showing the proposed routes for rail and road line have been given early approval and placed before the Duma for review before construction is to begin. Meanwhile operations to extend the high speed internet network are already underway with thousands of miles of cable rolling off the assembly lines and initial installations already taking place in key network hubs around the nation. The government today announced that it was investing a vast amount of its annual budget into the project, with plans to increase this by a further eight percent over the next year. Though the money has been clearly allocated and 'ring fenced' as the Graf von Hetzer, Chief Minister to the Treasury has put it, it has yet to be spent in many cases with the government building up the funds for the investment.

The huge project is already showing signs of improving the economy by a significant degree as key businesses and government agencies which are involved on every level of the programme now advertise for new jobs; as a result unemployment is on the decline, while economic forecasts show that the average wage is set to increase well above the rate of inflation for the first time in twenty years. Vast amounts of materials are already being prepared and purchased and the demands placed upon the Empire's industrial capacity are huge in scope - more of everything is presently needed with steel being in the highest demand, particularly for construction in urban areas. Already stock values in companies like Resh Fabrikan, Met Fabrikan, and Mag-Torc have vastly increased as the anticipated demand for steel and other raw materials throughout the nation is starting to be felt.

The Geddon Spiral
One of the most interesting, and innovative, of the projects to come out of the new infrastructure project is the Geddon Spiral; an offshore floating city of sorts which is intended to alleviate the housing shortage within the capital at the same time as providing an improved quality of life and more ecologically sustainable living arrangement. The Spiral is the first in a series of proposed offshore floating islands, and land reclamation projects which will see ever increasing numbers of people and businesses moving from land based locations out onto these artificial islands and platforms; much of the technology is already in place with new developments to specifically facilitate a floating city expected to be available within the next two years. For now however the Spiral remains very much in the planning stages, but regardless the government have given the project the green light alongside proposals for a 'Bio-City' in central Trodenia and five artificial islands off the coast of Czerniy, Jakocz, Sudtenar, Strazse, and Sombrey.

[Vvarden]

Debinsenum Tribe Camp, 5 Miles East of the Eastern Borders of Vvarden

At long last, the storm had settled, and visibility went beyond a mere few feet, even in the light of day. The dark clouds still loomed overhead, and the ground was still as drab a brown as the scattered cylindrical rocks that rose up from the dirt and smoothed out at their top. The scattered trees rising among the rocks were but a shadow of their former glory, nature having been worn down by nature. The Secret Senate’s official was simply happy that the storm was over, so that he could finally make the trip towards the Vokun tribe that was currently under watch by a large team of soldiers. Most of the Vokun were cooperating, if with great grumbling, but due to their intense hostility against the Vvardeni Senate and it's forces, no chance was being taken.

The official, a Vvardeni of average height with elaborate robes on his body and pursed lips on his face, stepped out of the hut he had confiscated from one Vokun family, brushing some dirt that had tumbled down onto it from the flap above him. Escorted by two guards, he made his way across the landscape to a larger number of huts in an open clearing. There were several soldiers, easily recognizable by their ordinate, golden armor, scattered around the perimeter of the village, with several more among the huts themselves. They nodded and saluted towards the official, who paid them absolutely no mind nor bothered to acknowledge their show of respect. Rather, his red eyes seemed locked upon a single hut, at the far end of the nomad village, resting with its door facing directly at him. It was as if providence itself had made everything perfectly convenient.

A guard opened up the flap, and the officer stepped in. Immediately he saw an Vokun, stripped of his outer garments, hanging by rope tied to the poles of the hut. An inquisitor stood nearby, fiddling with several oddly shaped metal utensils. It wasn’t hard to figure out what the inquisitor was there for, several dark red marks could be seen along the Vokun’s torso, with patches of skin shriveling and darkening further, as if rotting. The Vokun was heaving and gasping, sweat going down his dark body with his red eyes rolled into the back of his head.

The Senate official grinned, saying in a low voice, “Has the the traitor confessed to aiding the bandits?”

The inquisitor nodded, grinning back, “The traitor has confessed.”

The Senate official sniffed once, as if in derision, as he approached the dangling Vokun. With his hands behind his back and a blank expression on his face, the official pursed his lips a bit more, tilting his head as if to examine the Vokun like a scientific specimen. The Vokun adjusted his red eyes, staring at the Senate official head on, though still breathing heavily.

“I assumed you knew the location of the bandits,” the official said matter-of-factly, grinning even more broadly than he had before, “I want to thank you for your contributions. The rebel tribes will be eliminated, and finally there will be peace between the Senate and your people.”

The Ashlander laughed a bit, coughing afterward and wincing as he felt the pain from his abdomen, blood starting to pour through the wounds that the inquisitor's tools had created. He said in a scratching, low voice:

“I have told you next to nothing. I've told you only where they were, not where they are, with luck they're attacking one of your outposts right now. You Vvardeni will never achieve the greatness you seek.”

The official replied, “Our people are already great, thanks to the power and guidance of the Senate.”

The Vokun only laughed again, “No...the tribes will band together once again, put an end to your oppression, the Vokun Empire will be restored. It will be a land for Vokun, for humans, no Vvardeni, all you Vvardeni do is conquer and kill. Zu Zennout Ergül Uldin re zaut. Zu Vubanu tüüniizoond eraldeer zogsojkiz. You are demons walking among us holy folk…”

As the Vokun was speaking, the official was listening quietly. When the tortured man had finished, the official raised his hand and said, “You know, even though my smile and my comfortableness around a tortured man may delude you into thinking that I am a demon, that I admire the use of torture, nothing is further from the truth. I simply want to protect the people I love and know from your tribal agression...well, since you see fit to challenge our government, let us show you that the Senate truly has power over life and death.”

He dropped his hand and turned, and, as if on cue, the inquistor picked up a large pistol and aimed it at the back of the Vokun's head. The official had by now stepped out of the tent. A gunshot was heard, and then absolute silence. A soldier stepped forward and asked the Senate official.

“What shall we do with the camp, Official Torvos?”

“This is one of the lesser tribes, isn’t it?” the official asked. When the soldier nodded, the officer said, “Well then, send them to their paradise. Let them rest with their precious sky gods.”

It was all over in a matter of minutes. The soldiers, men well trained in the art of war, were more than a match for the unarmed men, women and children. Bodies were piled under the huts, with the Inquisitor going through and setting fire to each structure. By nightfall, the smoke was still rising high, but the paramilitary soldiers had long gone, and there was gradually less and less of a trace of what had formerly been a small Vokun tribe. Only a few nearby knew what had happened, but they knew that it was something not entirely unique to the barren steppe in the borderlands of Vvarden, another individual had joined a rebellion and given them food and shelter, and, like all the others, he had been captured and killed, and all possibility of a Vokun threat promptly eliminated.

Grand Speaker's Quarters, Zoroshthurvan

The Grand Speaker’s throat hurt, so he knew he had been screaming. He was soaked with sweat, his chest ached, and his limbs were trembling. He opened his eyes and forced his head up so he could see where he was, before he finally calmed down to the familiar sight of his bedroom.
"Just a dream." He told himself. "Just a dream."
The Speaker sighed and pushed off the covers before getting up and looking back down to his bed. Nobody was there. Tavthis slept with the Speaker exceedingly rarely, so people didn't find out about it. Such a scandal could potentially cost him his job, or possibly even do nothing. Vvardeni had a habit of not caring about other people's love life so long as they didn't break any laws. The Speaker drowsily stumbled to the washbasin in the bathroom, cupping his hands, splashing water over himself and blinking red eyes at himself in the near darkness. His scars on his shoulders, chest and back caught his eye and he traced them softly with his hands. Long scars, lash marks, marks of when the secret police beat him. He never cracked, despite it all. And through all that, he retained his sanity, he retained his sense of justice, he never blamed a group for the acts of a few, or at least he tried to, sometimes he would live out those memories again in his head and finish having a dislike towards humankind that slowly diminished throughout the rest of the day. The Speaker stood up and sighed before rubbing his face with a towel. He staggered back to the bedroom, turned on the television watching the news headlines of the early morning before getting dressed as per usual. He had a mind to grab something from the food stalls at the market before heading to the Senate for his speech.

Dulo Markets, Zoroshthurvan

People were standing on pulpits preaching to the crowd around them, from speeches about mating with the humans to the point of a new race being created, a holy union under the Universe, to eliminating the humans in the same ruthlessness the humans did to the Vvardeni. It was true that marks were still fresh, but now the Vvardeni were a minority on their own planet. Vvarden itself almost collapsed into civil war after a debate in the senate spiraled out of control, it concerning whether to appoint a new Emperor, a Grand Speaker with dictatorial-like powers but was assigned a term and was very democratic in electing and making decisions, or creating a full on republic. Finally, the debate cooled down, with the Grand Speaker side winning over the others, though a monarchical desire still exists in the population in a great deal, approximately 41% of the population wanting a reinstated Monarchy with 49% wanting the government the same. The Grand Speaker did wonder what would happen if the royalist faction won the debates, he'd probably be an Emperor. It was an idea that would possibly be brought up again if the mood changes. He'd probably choose either Ralos or something completely different for his royal name. But that was imagination, the Grand Speaker scolded his mind, and he was brought back to the present and the scenes around him. He was now in a fast food area, the air filled with the stomach churning scents of procured meats, fresh bread and spiced dishes, many a mix of human and Vvardeni cuisines. There was a massive digital clock on a screen in one of the buildings. It was 10:21 in the morning, the second day in the first month of the year 12205*. More than enough time to grab a quick snack from his favourite stall before heading off to the Senate for his adress. He spotted his local stall and sat on one of the five stools out the front, looking around a bit more before turning to the owner.

"Ah, same thing Sera Speaker?" The large Vvardeni replied in a thick Onzaian accent.
"Yes please, Ade." The Speaker smiled, though to be frank, he was still shaken from the last night's events. Ade came from a long line of Vvardeni that sought refuge in Onza after the dissolution of the Human Empire, escaped slaves mostly. Onza was one of the first ones to break free, mostly because they abhorred the enslaving of the natives and Onza became a refuge. Over time, they became a completely different group from Vvardeni, their culture mingling with Onzaian to the point there was almost no difference, though their faith remained the same. The food though, was excellent. The Speaker loved being out here. He didn't want to be cooped up in that building. Of course, there were guards around to protect him, mostly in disguise. The Speaker watched a regiment of guards in ceremonial chainmail and gold masks walk down the road, armed with stun-spears and plasma pistols. There were more of them recently since the the bombing at the Temple of Universal Truth, the Speaker knew, he'd authorized it himself. The guard's armour was made of a ceramic-alloy coating consisting of nylon and polyester, and it also lightweight as well, which allowed more traditional armour, though irrelevant these days, to be placed over the top. He watched them pass and then he turned back around to see a group of spiced, fried dumplings near a thick crimson sauce along with a roll of bread, long, circular and flat. The Speaker groaned in joy as he tasted the familiar meal. He loved this stall for the cuisine, a perfect mix of Onzaian and Vvardeni.

"Every time, Ade, you make it taste like when I first visited your stall." The Speaker smiled at Ade, who was serving some kind of rich fillet to another customer. The Speaker reached in the pockets of his robes but Ade spoke. "No charge Sera Speaker, always no charge."

"Thank you." The Speaker spoke with gratitude and left, vanishing into the chaotic crowds, leaving a napkin as the only trace he'd been there.

The Senate, Zoroshthurvan

The Grand Speaker stared down at the faces of the Senate, the Lesser Senators' faces^ looking up to meet his, ashen grey faces with red eyes and ornate robes and the few scattered faces of the representatives of the human-majority areas. All of them stared at the Speaker. Beside him were his council, his Speakers for Defence, Economics, Citizen's Affairs, Infrastructure, Foreign Affairs and finally his Co-Speaker Tavthis. He could see television cameras in some areas of the crowd. The Speaker cleared his throat and spoke:

"I am sure most, if not all of you have heard the news recently of the bombing at the Temple of Eternal Truth, at the hands of a terrorist group known as Garlas Malatar. The search is underway for the locations of the people in the groups who were behind these evil acts. We will expose them. I have directed the full resources of our intelligence and law enforcement communities to find those responsible and to bring them to justice for their crimes.

A great people has been moved to defend a great nation. Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest and most holy buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of Vvarden and the Vvardeni. These acts shatter steel, blast stone and claim countless lives, but they cannot dent our resolve. Vvarden was targeted for attack because we are the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world for our species. And no one will keep that light from shining. Today, our nation saw evil, the very worst of both Vvardeni and Vokun nature, and we responded with the best of both. With the daring of our rescue workers, some of whom were Vokun as well, with the caring for strangers and neighbors who came to give blood and help in any way they could, lives were saved. I want to thank those people from the bottom of my heart, as Grand Speaker for this democratic oligarchy.

I appreciate the members of the Senate who have joined me in strongly condemning these attacks. And on behalf of the Vvardeni species, I thank the many world leaders who have called to offer their condolences and assistance. Vvarden and our friends and allies join with all those who want peace and security in the world, and we stand together to win the war against terrorism.

I now talk to the citizens of Vvarden. I beseech you not to discriminate against those who are of mixed human and Vvardeni blood and also those that are human, for they are Vvardeni citizens too, and though Garlas Malatar fights for an independent land where the numbers of humans and Vvardeni are equal, a worthy goal by itself, the acts that they have done trying to get their message across to us shows that they are not deserving of their prize!

This is a day when all Vvardeni from every walk of life unite in our resolve for justice and peace. We have stood down enemies before in our great past, and we will do so this time. We go forward to defend Vvarden and all that is good and just in our lifestyle, our very nature, our very way of thinking!

Long live the Senate, the Democratic Oligarchy, and the people of Vvarden. Thank you all."

The Grand Speaker walked away, to the sounds of cheers and claps from the Lesser Speakers. As soon as he left, Tavthis passed him a cloth and the Speaker wiped his forehead, which was glistening with dew which formed clear drops on the grey skin.

"Was it good?" The Speaker asked.

"It was very good. Hopefully we can be able to pass legislation to help us find that group." Tavthis replied. The Speaker smiled.
"So do I, dear friend." The Speaker replied in a stentorian tone.

The other council members walked through the doors and congratulated the Speaker, who thanked them.
"I appreciate the good reception, but that does not mean that we still need to perform our duties to track Garlas Malatar down. I would like daily updates on how we are progressing from now on. You can go back to your seats in the Senate now, let's see if the proposed counter-terrorism bill passes." And with that they walked back in to the Senate. The bill was passed an hour later, 200-0.



*The Vvardeni Calendar is interesting to say the least. There were many forms, and during the time of the Old Empire the date was accepted to be that of the birth of Ralos I, making the current year in Yukon in Vvardeni years 2205 in the old calendar, but this was found to be inaccurate and recently 10,000 years was added on, so the year would be 12205, due to how the Vvardeni first established cities and civilizations approximately 10,000 years ago.

^The Vvardeni Senate is a curious thing. It is headed by a Grand Speaker, who is chosen every 15 years out of the many Lesser Speakers, who represent various municipal and educational areas of Vvarden, such as universities and lawyer organisations. This wide variety of Lesser Speakers provides a comprehensive and multi-cultural view. There are also Lesser Speakers simply known as Speakers who are chosen by the Grand Speaker to act as his council, such as Speakers for Defence, Foreign Affairs, et cetera.

[The Landfish Colonies]

Judge, Jury, Executioner
Gavanay
Socialist People's Republic of Samakia

The fireworks over Gavanay were truly something beautiful, a magnificent display of red and orange exploding like miniature supernova's in the nigh sky. Victory Day was quickly becoming 6 year old Yared Ibrahima's favorite holiday of them all. He'd seen jets earlier in the day, actual big fighter planes up close and personal. It's hadn't exactly been the first time he'd seen them, but he'd never gotten a good look before today. They moved so fast normally, and the first time he'd seen one had only lasted a few seconds before mommy daddy and taken him to the basement. They'd cried a lot after that, and hugged him and told him that they loved him. Yared's big brother Tendai hadn't been there. He had gone outside, carrying a big gun. He hadn't come back.

But seeing a jet up close today had been exciting. It had been parked on display, and a big man in a pilots uniform had let him sit in the cockpit, let him pretend he was flying, shooting Capitalists. Yared didn't know what a Capitalist was, only that they were bad. That's what everyone said: The man in Uniform on the TV, the men in uniforms behind him. That's what his teacher said, and his friends and their parents. It's what mommy and daddy said, but whenever they said it, they looked sad. Like there was something wrong that Yared didn't know. He was pulled from his thoughts by the sight of the a bright red and orange blast, lighting up the balcony of the small apartment stood on. He was mesmerized by the colours, and apparently wasn't the only one, as he could hear people in the streets cheering and singing. It was peaceful, almost beautiful, until a loud crash pulled Yared out of his trance.

He looked back into the apartment, blinded as the lights inside switched on. Cautiously, Yared stepped inside, covering his eyes until he became used to the lights. The was more crashing and rustling, like someone was throwing things about the apartment. As his vision adjusted, he saw his father, digging through drawers, throwing things willy nilly about the apartment. He pulled books and papers out, stuffing them frantically into a rucksack around his shoulder. He looked scared, the same scared as when the jets had first started flying over head.

"Daddy? Are you okay?"

The older man looked up, sweat dripping down his forhead, starring at his son, "Yared?" Tears formed in his eyes as he lunged forward, wrapping the boy in a bear hug, "Oh thank god. Thank god, Yared..."

"Where's mommy?"

"Mommy? Mommy's..." Yared's father trailed off, pushing his son away from as he got back up. He hurried over the a desktop computer on a small table near the wall, "Mommy's okay. She's coming..." He smashed the computer on the ground, before disappearing into the kitchen. When he reappeared, he had a bottle of alcohol in one hand, a lighter in the other. He opened the bottle with his mouth, dumping the contents over the computer, before dropping a lit flame onto the mess. The fire spread quickly as the computer began to pop and spark, just like fireworks.

Yared was scared now, "Daddy, what are you..."

"Listen to me son." The old man knelt down, grabbing his son by his shoulder, "I... I... We're going... okay? We need to leave, and we're not coming back."

"What about Mommy?"

"Mommy's going to meet us... okay? She's fine Yared..." The boy's father looked down, "She loves you, and I love you too. But we must leave!"

"Can I bring Whiskers?" Yared asked, referring to a stuffed cat he kept in his bed. The toy had seen better days, but Yared loved her none the less. His father seemed to hesitate, but smiled warmly.

"Of course, Yared. But hurry... run run run..." His father patted the boy on the back as he sprinted down the short hallway to his bedroom, running to his small bed were the stuffed cat sat patiently. Yared scooped up the cat, but jumped when he heard a loud crashed from back from where he'd come. At first, he just thought it was his father, but he could hear the voices of other men, all shouting and screaming. His father was trying to make his voice heard over the mess of shouting, all the while.

"Please!" Yared's father cried, "I'm sorry... I... I have money... I have..." The men interrupted him screaming louder, "I... I have a son, just please! Let me..." Yared jumped and slapped his hands over his ears after a loud bang resonated through the apartment, again and again.

"Alpha 1-1, this is Stalker Bravo. X-Ray is down, I repeat, X-Ray is KIA." A deep voice boomed, and Yared shrunk into ball at the foot of his bed, clutching Whiskers to his chest, "Hard Copy. Sweeping for intel." The voice announced loudly, before speaking something Yared couldn't hear. What he could here were the footsteps marching down the hall. Yared held Whiskers infront of his face, was a large figure, dressed all in black, stepped through the open door. He had a helmet and mask covering his face, and a big gun in his arms. He was massive, towering over Yared as he walked over to the cowering boy. There was silence as the man starred down at Yared from behind dark goggles, before he pulled back a switch on his rifle, making a loud click.

"I'm sorry, kid."

Government Activity

President Ayo Okeke delivering an address on Victory Day

Dulo Isles and War Games

The Samak Government has official stated that it will not support the Vvardeni Colonization of the Dulo Isles, territory once occupied by the First Samakian Empire, under the rule of Shamballe the Great. Assembly President Dr. Ayo Okeke also came on record as stating, "It was the Vvardeni People, who expelled us from our rightful homeland, the Dulo Isles included. Never, Never, Have Samak Warships landed on a Vvardeni beach. No, they have always been the aggressors, invading and plundering. Yet when they are conquered, they demand, rights and fair treatment. Never before has such hypocrisy plagued this world."

General Secretary Tymeo Bankole, as well as top Military advisers have also chosen to ignore all Vvardeni Condemnation of War Games off the coast of the Dulo and Samak Isles. We have every right to conduct training exercises for our military. Such things are not to be perceived as threats. It is simply routine maintenance. Bankole stated in a press conference.

Further more, in the same conference, General Secretary Bankole announced his willingness to take part in joint training exercises with the Grand Duchy Armed Forces, seeing it as an opportunity to expand the nations diplomatic influence. Top military officers are offering the chance to meet with officials from the Grand Duchy, and on the Civilian Side, an ambassadorial team has been sent North.

[Vvarden]

Zoroshthurvan News Service: Foreign Edition

High Priest Magnus XI Dead After Severe Wounds


"The Vvardeni High Priest Magnus XI has died overnight after
suffering extreme burns from the suicide bombing at the Temple
of Universal Truth yesterday. The Universal Priest's Council
has not yet found a successor"

---

Senate Accepts Trondeim Trading Agreements


"The Senate has accepted
the mutual trading agreements, immigration
and customs agreements, educational exchanges,
and an extradition treaty from the Celestial Empire
of Trodenheim, signing a treaty dubbed "The
Treaty of Vvardeni-Trodenheim Cooperation"

Top Headline: Counter-Terrorism Law Passed

After the recent bombing at the Temple of Eternal Truth which has so far claimed 1001 lives, including those of the High Priest Magnus XI, a counter-terrorism law proposed by the Grand Speaker has passed through the Senate at a judgement of 200 to 0. The law aims to help find and prosecute members of the Garlas Malatar group who have started to gain a foothold in Vokun-majority areas due to many anti-Vvardeni opinions in those areas. So far the laws will:

• Make it easier to identify, to charge and to prosecute Vvardeni and Vokun who have been engaged in terrorist activities overseas and within Vvarden
• Allow for a person's passport to be suspended for 14 days.
• Make it an offence to travel to or remain in a "declared area" designated as being of "terrorist activity" without a valid reason.
• Broaden the application of law from a "terrorism activity" to "terrorism"
• Make it an offence to "advocate terrorism", including on social media, carrying a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment
• Allow welfare payments to be cut off for people assessed as a serious threat whose passports have been cancelled
• Ensure a review of the Bill and related legislation is conducted by Tulo (June) 12207 (Two years in the future in the Vvardeni calendar)
• Require telecommunications companies to retain customers' phone and computer metadata for five years
• Keep information such as phone numbers, length of phone calls, email addresses and the time a message was sent
• Not keep the content of phone calls or emails and explicitly exclude internet browsing
• Give security agencies access to the data when they can make a case that it is "reasonably necessary" to an investigation
• Still require security agencies to obtain a warrant before accessing the actual content of messages or conversations
• Seek to reduce the number of agencies able to access the data
• Seek to limit access to stored communication such as text messages and emails

So far five people have been taken into questioning with no charges set in connection to the Temple Bombing, including the relatives and contacts of the suicide bomber. The Vvardeni Senate urges anyone with information, or at least is aware of any suspicious activity to go to https://www.nationalsecurity.gov.vv/english/Securityandyourcommunity/Nationalsecurityinquiries

A Vvardeni Air Force RR-22B lands on the VSNS Imayon during marine exercises last year

Samakian Wargames

The Speaker for Foreign Affairs, Luaosi Telaandil has shot back at the Samakian allegations of being aggressive, stating that we did not start these wargames, we did not continue to make tensions rise between our nations, rather the Samak Goverment has done so. Soon after their overthrow of their former capitalist regime of whom Vvarden were great trading partners with, they closed their embassy within Vvarden and arrested several Vvardeni for "connections to war crimes". I do have no doubt that such war crimes may have occurred under the old regime, of which we were unaware of, but arresting foreign expats on the grounds of merciless xenophobia will not stand. The Dulo Isles have been in Vvardeni hands for a long time, and it was uninhabited by the time the Old Empire claimed it. We have no intention of invading you or plundering you and surely if you are agreeing with the right to produce wargames near contested territories then everything should be fine if we ourselves were to send two ships to patrol the outer islands. Such things are not to be percieved as threats. It is simply routine border protection. Speaker for Foreign Affairs, Luaosi Telaandil spoke in a press conference sometime this morning.

In the meanwhile two small patrol boats have been sent to patrol the outer island closest to the Samak nation commonly called Shamballe, due to the burial of the ancient Samak king on the island, which in Vvardeni is called Sehaambelnim. These boats are performing a routine patrol of the island, as other ships have done to different islands in the Dulo Isles in recent weeks.

More news updates will occur shortly.

[Croxoco]

DELETED

[Promethius Prime]

The Celestial Empire of
Trodenhiem

---

Government Communique
In Response to Columbian Proposals

His Celestial Majesty the Emperor, Konstantin IX, and his Chief Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics have met with numerous advisors, ministers, and civil servants - as well as with the Columbian diplomatic delegation, and have discussed at length the trading agreement that has been proposed by the Columbian government. It should first be noted that both the Emperor and Markgraf have received this offer of a trade agreement most favourably, and that both look forward to pursuing further negotiations on the subject in a climate of openness, mutual respect, and friendship. This said we shall now proceed to discuss the subject at hand more directly and offer comment and minor counter proposals to certain specifics of the treaty.

Articles I through to XII are deemed acceptable as worded and the Emperor is prepared to affix his seal to these articles specifically without further delay.

The Emperor however wishes to propose a further economic agreement attached to this treaty, which would facilitate the free movement of people between our two nations for the purposes of business and education; in addition the Celestial Empire is prepared to of a reciprocal dual citizenship agreement which will allow such people from each nation, who so desire it, to hold citizenship in both Trodenhiem and Columbia concurrently. Finally the Emperor wishes to forward a proposal for a free trading zone in each nation; one based along the southern coast of Trodenhiem and the other along the north coast of Columbia - these zones would serve as epicentres for trade, stockbroking, and other financial and economic interests between our two nations. Each trading zone would continue to fall under the sovereignty of its parent nation, however they would serve as anchoring and administrative centres for the further development and management of trade within the Taranmerea Strait.

---

Government Communique
Further Proposals to the Columbian Government

In light of the warm and cordial commencement of relations between our nations the Emperor and Markgraf believe that the time is right to make a formal proposal regarding the status of the Taranmerea Strait as well as an agreement outlining joint policies regarding the Junction Sea, Taranuko Strait and Ukomerea Strait. The agreement we hope to reach shall include the extension of both Troden and Columbian maritime borders within the Taranmerea Strait so that they extend from the coastline to a mutually agreed central line as close as practicable to half way between each nation; in addition both nations agree to joint control of the Junction Sea which lies to the west of the Strait, and grants free access on a courtesy notification basis to their own territorial waters within the Taranmerea Strait. Additionally in consideration of possible future developments the Emperor wishes to propose that a similar agreement of safe passage and maritime border recognition be extended to both the Taranuko Strait and the Ukomerea Strait.

---

Government Communique
Statement Regarding the Samakian Crisis

The Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem and its government formally recognise the land and maritime borders of Vvarden and Samakia as they are at this time; this is to say that the reasonably enforceable claims of both nations without cause for armed conflict. It is not Trodenhiem's place to dictate to the governments of Vvarden and Samakia how they should resolve this crisis; nor is it our place to become directly involved - however should either party act in a manner which negatively impacts upon the economic, diplomatic, and political interests of the Celestial Empire severe action will be taken to correct the situation. While this government hopes that a peaceful solution can be found it is not our policy to issue an ultimatum or act in a military capacity at this time; this said the Celestial Empire condemns the broader ideological approach of the Samakian government and believes that such an ideology is incompatible with peace and stability. Should the government of Samakia choose to take action against Vvarden the Celestial Empire shall begin to consider any and all possibilities with regards to a response on this matter.

---

All Communications Signed And Sealed
Imperial Foreign Office & Office of HCM Konstantin IX

[Onza]

Kunta, Onza - Diplomats from the Union of Columbia and the Restored Oligarchic Senate of Vvarden were received warmly today in the capital city of Kunta.

President Xolani Kojo was present to meet each individual diplomat and thank them for travelling into the Emirates to represent their nation. "It is our great honor to welcome you into our nation. We look forward to working with you closely in an effort to pave the way for stronger ties to our neighbors in the future," said the President while addressing the crowd at a ceremony that was hosted in honor of the ambassadors.

"I'm pleased to announce that we have already reserved the highest class of embassies for both of your nations," he said while going on to list some of them protections that the National Assembly recently passed for ambassadors that include diplomatic immunity, an around-the-clock security detail, and a monthly stipend for their work in the nation.

The President also commented on the recent news of the death of High Priest Magnus XI of Vvarden.

"We as a people issue the strongest condolences that our hearts can muster," he said of the High Priest. "Global terrorism must be stopped at all costs. The Emirates will continue to work with international powers to combat terrorism at its source."

[St Saratoga]

Saratogan Times - International
”Keeping Saratoga up to date of all of the affairs domestic & international.”

Democratic Farmer-Labor Party Claims Victory

Cost: K$ 1.50

---

Rogerbei, Saratoga -- Tomas Templeman, Party Chair of The Democratic Farmer-Labor Party has claimed victory in the Senate after the Leftist Coalition, lead by Lenin Trovoski, concedes. With the polls at around the nation having the DFLers leading by 5% with 95% of the ballots counted The Socialist Party has thrown in the towel.


Tomas Templeman declaring victory for the DFL Party

“This is great day for Saratoga! The voters have shown that they are sick & tired of the stagnate progress this nation has been making while under the leadership of the Conservative Alliance Party.” - Tomas Templeman, DFL Party Chair. With their victory, this will be the first time in the last few decades that a liberal party has won majority in the Senate. The conservatives barely held power last election cycle but vowed to keep the Senate in "Moral, Conservative hands" in the next election cycle.

The real losers today though are the conservative & right wing individuals who lost over 15% of The Senate. “This is a disappointing time for our nation. Conservatism has kept this nation safe and secure from foreign enemies that have haunted our ancestors. We will continue to serve the interests of Saratoga over our own selfish agendas that the leftist have.” - Eric Drumpf, Conservative Alliance Party

The results of this election have stunned majority of far left after with the latest, previous polls have shown that the Leftist Coalition were 5-points ahead in the polls and were expected to obtain a large majority. The leftist coalition is made up of the Communist & Socialist Parties that felt that Saratoga needed quick, radical change that the DFL party wasn't going to offer. The Leftist Coalition was leading for over 3 months in the polls but a few days before the election the Department of Justice announced an investigation into the Communist Party for voting fraud.

The newly formed Senate should officially take office tonight to start the debate and election of the Prime Minister & Chancellor of Saratoga. The leading candidate for Chancellor is Michelle Bankmann & Newt Lynchpin with Catherine Durr's name being thrown around. Prime Minister is expected to be Tomas Templeman with Frank Quincy trailing.

---

Rogerbei, Saratoga - In an unexpected surprise to the Saratogan government. A wave of ambassadors have shown up on Saratoga’s doorstep. The now DFL controlled Senate unexpectedly has temporarily appointed Catherine Durr, Party Vise-Chair of the DFL, to serve as Acting Chancellor until an official Chancellor can be elected. The move by the DLF to nominate can be viewed as a way to boost the credibility of Catherine Durr or to deny the top 2 candidate previously reported an unfair chance for the job.

Within an hour of being appointed, Chancellor Durr has welcomed all of the foreign ambassadors and in return has sent ambassadors to the following nations Samakia, Varden, Columbia, Onza, Airatinia, Laurentian, 46566, & Trodenhiem. The Ambassadors only assignment at this point is too just introduce friendly relations with their assigned governments. There are rumors that the Ambassadors to Samakia, Vvarden & Airatania have special instructions to cozy up to both bordering administrations in hopes of establishing a larger trade agreement or even some sort of coalition or pact according to unnamed sources with the Department of International Affairs.

---

Sarah Toga
Senior Political Correspondent
Saratogan Times

---

"Gentlemen, I need option of the Samakia-Vvarden issue. They are clearly getting ready to heat things up over those war games." Catherine Durr says looking at a map. "I want all options on the table, diplomatic & military."

Admiral Chinook clears his throat, "I feel that we need to insert Saratogan dominance in the area. We have key resources that both nations needs and if we can establish that if there is any issues in our sphere of influence you will need to deal with Saratoga, our navy is ready to deter the situation before it gets any worse or other nations get involve-"

"Chancellor, we can't be dealing with this before we even has a Prime Minister! There is no way the Senate is going to allow military action so close to when we've just elected a liberal Senate. By doing this we are going to cause some massive public outlash." Shouts Harrison, International Advisor to the Chancellor. "We need to let this situation play out and let our ambassadors do their work before we cause an even worse situation."

Catherine looks at both men, "We need a solution. This is not a solution so we are going to do both. Admiral, what kind of forces do we have ready?"

The Admiral opens a dossier, "The First Homefleet is the one that would carry out on operation but I recommend we merger it with part of the Home Reserve Fleet. In total, this fleet would be made up of 2 aircraft carriers, The SRN Chamberlain & Rogerbei, along with 8 Heavy Crusiers, 6 Light Cruisers, 12 Destroyers, and 6 Subs from the Reverse Fleet. If needed, we also have one division of Marines on standby numbering as 12,500 to secure the island if needed."

"Ok do it. I want them deployed and doing training exercises about 25 nautical miles outside of Vvardeni & Samakia war-games. I want you to keep a close eye on those to nations, immediately alert me if anything changes. As for the ambassadors, inform them of the operation and have then double time their assignments. I want them to address Vvarden & Samakian government about this situation then work to find a solution."

---

Saratogan Times - International
”Keeping Saratoga up to date of all of the affairs domestic & international.”

Chancellor Durr addresses Vvarden-Samakian Standoff, DoIA Orders Military Exercises

Cost: K$ 1.50

---

Rogerbei Naval Base, Saratoga -- At the orders of the Saratogan High Command in Rogerbei, the First Homefleet & parts of the reserve fleet were dispatched to the gulf to conduct militaries exercise. These exercises are expected to last a few months or until the forces are recalled back home. The Department of Defense & Armaments has said that these are in no way a response to the event taking place in the gulf between Vvarden & Samakia. Chancellor Durr stated during a press conference,"The Vvarden-Samakian Standoff directly affects Saratoga and that a peaceful solution should be negotiated. We are willing to host such negotiations and are willing to occupy the conflict islands as a neutral party until an agreement can be found. We have discussed the situation and also have a plan in place in the event of the standoff getting out of control."

Some of our photographers were allowed access to the Rogerbei Naval Base to document the exercises with the fleet.


Cruisers heading out to the gulf.


SRN Chamberlain making last minute preparations to depart port.


Some of the vessels left behind in port.

---

Tommy Yetland
Senior Military Correspondent
Saratogan Times

[46566]

Grand Duchy backs Gulf Union
Midgar- By the urging of the Senate the Grand Duke has officially shown interest in forming a Gulf Coast Union. With the addition of the Trans-Gulf High-Speed Railway, and a Trans-Gulf Highway the Grand Duchy will further expand it's trade with it's neighbors. The Grand Duchy will be willing to work with all three nations to further improve inter-regional trade. Should the Vvarden and Samakia governments do not trust each other with direct trade then the Grand Duchy will be willing to act as a neutral third party in trade.

Grand Duchy will participate in military drills with Samakia military
Midgar- The Grand Duchy announced it will be willing to formally train with the Samakia military in a broad range of military drills and to a limited officer exchange. The agreement between the two nations are for common interest in training it's militaries for potential future problems. The Samakia forces have little to no formal military training while the Grand Duchy could further develop tactics for guerrilla warfare. On another note the Grand Duchy will be asking the Samakia view on them joining the Gulf Union.

Grand Duchy to remain neutral over the Dulo Isles issue
Midgar- The Grand Duchy has stated it will remain neutral should a conflict arise between Vvarden and Samakia. While the Grand Duchy will be doing military training with the Samakia military. The Grand Duchy forces will be training in the area with the Samakia forces but will not engage in aggressive manners to the other two forces near the area. Should the Grand Duchy forces be attacked the Grand Duchy will consider it a act of war. The Grand Duchy forces will be their in a training capacity only.

Grand Duchy to recognize Vvarden and open embassy
Midgar- The Grand Duchy will formally recognize Vvarden and seek to open up embassies and consulates within Vvarden. At this time the Grand Duchy will be urging the Vvardeni government to join the Gulf Union to cover the trading possibilities between the governments. At this time the only thing the Grand Duchy will be looking for is a Non Aggression pact between the two nations. While the Grand Duchy has heard about the attacks within Vvarden it's considered a internal Vvarden problem and the Grand Duchy will not interfere.

Will be hoping of formal exchanges between 46566 and Trodenhiem
Midgar- The Grand Duke has agreed to move forward with extending the start of diplomatic talks with the Empire of Trodenhiem. the Grand Duchy will be looking to come to terms with the range of proposals from the Empire quickly to quickly finish the discussions between the two countries. Like any other trade deals the trade arrangements must be voted on by the Imperial Senate.

[Airatania]

President extends invitation to all nations to open embassies in Airatania
Kucera also set to open formal talks with Saratoga on creating alliance
Miracus, AIRATANIA -- Newly elected President Thomas Kucera announced today that he is extending a formal invitation to all nations globally to open embassies in Airatania in an effort to expand the country's influence on the world stage. The President made the announcement to a crowd of reporters outside the Jacobs Building in Miracus, where formal trade and alliance talks are set to begin with Saratoga.

Kucera said that it is his ultimate goal as president to see Airatania become a major economic power, as well as a beacon of peace and prosperity to the entire world. "We need to build a strong and lasting relationship with the global community if we're going to want to continue prospering as a nation," Kucera told reporters. "If we want to see ourselves grow as a nation, we're going to have to help build others up as well."

The statement appears to be an extension of the platform on which the President's party, the National Libertarian Party (NLP) ran on during this year's general elections.

Airatania officials have already begun the process of entering the global stage. Today, diplomats and officials, including President Kucera himself, began talks with Saratogan Ambassador Jonathon Gobbs and the Saratogan delegation. At hand is the matter of forming an alliance with the gulf nation in an effort to strengthen ties in that region. Secretary of State Allison Carter has said that the two countries intend to discuss a wide array of topics, including forming both trade and military cooperation agreements, among other things. Secretary Carter says it is the hope of the Airatanian Administration, as well as of Saratoga, that such deals can lead to a larger coalition involving other nations as well.

Stay with ANN for the latest developments.

[St Saratoga]

Saratogan Times - International
”Keeping Saratoga informed of all of the affairs domestic & international.”
Tomas Templeman elected Prime Minister, Confirms Durr as Chancellor

Cost: K$ 1.50

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Rogerbei, Saratoga — In a landslide 413 to 137 victory, The Senate has appointed Tomas Templeman to become the next Prime Minister of Saratoga & Catherine Durr as Chancellor. Tomas Templeman is a senior Senator who has served 5 terms as a Senator. He has been part of many senate committees including being chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Trade & Commerce Committee.

Tomas Templeman was the chief architect behind the national push for same-sex marriage, citizen privacy, the National Infrastructure Act, and as party chair organized the major push for a left wing takeover of the Senate. Tomas Templeman is one of the major icons in the DFL party and now a major national icon.

Prime Minister Templeman’s press secretary has announced that the Prime Minister will be giving an inaugural speech tomorrow at 12pm (OOC Later Today). The speech will setup the Prime Minister’s agenda for Saratoga which is speculated to contain a same-sex marriage legislation, investment plans, and government reform.

---

Sarah Toga
Senior Political Correspondent
Rogerbei Times

The next day, 9 am…

Tomas paces around the High Office. The High Office is the office for the Prime Minister which is located in the Chamberlain Palace. The Chamberlain Palace is the resident which hold the office of the Prime Minister and the offices of his subordinates who assist the PM with their job.

Tomas paces around his office, mumbling his speech to himself. He is looking for anything that doesn’t make it sound like he isn’t speaking from the heart. He knows this speech sets the attitude to the rest of this Prime Ministership and he wants to make sure this speech is the definition of perfect.

11 am…

“Welcome to a special edition of Saratoga Times News. In one hour, Prime Minister will address the nation with his inaugural speech. Millions of Saratogans are expected to tune into the speech via televisions, radio, and any other form of communication. Prime Minister Templeman has become Prime Minister in extraordinary times as Saratoga start to contact their nieboring nations.” Tomas turns off the tv. As he fixes his tie and does one more glance over himself in the mirror before exiting the room.

11:55…

“I am honored to present to you, the next Prime Minister of Saratoga, Tomas Templeman” The key note speaker, Majority Whip Micheal Grove announces.

Tomas steps up to him, shakes his hands. Then Steps onto the podium. There are thousand of people gathered outside the Senate to watch him speak, Tomas is proud, but nervous.

“Members of the Senate, Madame Chancellor, Citizen of Saratoga, You have made history today. Today, you chose to embrace the future instead of reject it. You chose to open to your eyes to the world around our instead of ignoring it but I tell you know that is one of many step in the right direction.

The path you have chosen to take will require sacrifice, you will encounter new problems and new hardships but I promise to you that you will also create new solution that spur innovation for hundreds of years to come. The will of the Saratogan people is strong and the state of our nation is growing brighter everyday.

I would like to congrats Chancellor Catherine Durr to be nominated as our Chancellor. I put my absolute faith and trust into her ability to represent our nation as she did to lead our party to victory. Chancellor Durr has already taking this nations in huge leaps and bounds by opening our nation up for the representatives of other nation to start the creation of dialogue to help create a positive future for our nation.

Saratoga is one of the most green nations in the world, our nations power grid is fueled completely by natural gas, solar, and wind power. The is something we need to continue to improve on. Energy is the life blood of our nation which is fueled by our abundance of natural resources. Saratoga is bless to have such resource and I promise that during my term as Prime Minister we will continue to expand our mining operations to extract our nations natural resources. Chancellor Durr has also began dialogue with other nations around the world to import resources of their own to our nation and in return to export ours to theirs.

Our nations infrastructure is one of most important parts of our economy. We need these railroads, highways, and bridges to move manpower and resource to help fuel our economy. While I am Prime Minister, I will make sure we improve our nations infrastructure, is one of the best in the world by the time a new Prime Minister has entered office.

In closing, I want to reach out to my friends and enemies. Saratoga is on it’s way to the top and there is nobody that can stop our nation. We are united as one, one unstoppable force!”

Prime Minister Templeman give a huge wave to the excited, cheering crowd before heading backing the Senate Chamber.

[Vvarden]

Zoroshthurvan News Service: Foreign Edition

Successor To Magnus XI Found


"A successor to the late High Priest Maagnus XI has been found
after a long and exhaustive search. The successor is
a boy aged 13, a half-Vokun child named Ulvasas Nasirpal.
Several conservative priests are arguing about the
heritage of the successor, but they are now silent
on the matter. Hopefully this mixed-race High Priest
will bring Vokun and Vvardeni together."

---

Senate Asks For Saratogan Assistance in Hunting Garlas Malatar


"The Senate has asked the government of
Saratoga to help with finding and hunting
the terrorists of the Garlas Malatar group.
Ususally the Senate would not involve
outsiders on the matter, but due
to a close border and a friendly attitude
the Senate asks for assistance."

Farmers working on sugar plantations in the Dulo Isles

Top Headline: The Senate Refuses Gulf Union Request

After a vote of 112 to 88 the Senate has decided to refuse the request to be accepted into the Gulf Union, mostly over tensions with Samakia but also the Grand Duchy's participation with the Samakian wargames near a disputed territory. The Senate has recognised the Grand Duchy as a power in an interesting twist, but it dismisses its' claims to be a neutral trading site, given the cooperation between Samakia and the Grand Duchy that dispels any Vvardeni perceptions of neutrality. True neutrality, the Senate spoke in an official letter, is no cooperation with either side. The Senate has also decided to increase the size of the mines in the Dulo Isles after several rich deposits of diamonds and several pockets of uranium were found recently scattered across several of the islands. The Senate has also proposed a tax cut to those deciding to settle on the Dulo Isles, an an incentive to populate this nearly empty territory.




Garlas Malatar Manhunt

Two Vokun have since been arrested over connections with the Garlas Malatar group. There was an operation beginning at five in the morning today which would hopefully see many suspects thought to have connections arrested. The original plan was to raid several houses in a coordinated attack. However only two of the ten suspects were at the scene and they were promptly arrested. No suspicious items have been found on the properties and the SPVPF (The Senate and the People of Vvarden's Police Force) is currently interrogating those arrested.

Diplomatic Affairs

The Senate has recently sent out a mutually beneficial treaty with the The United Democratic Emirates of Onza, whom the Restored Oligarchic Senate seeks to gain a friendship with, given the warming relations between the two countries recently. The treaty has been named the Sun and Moon Pact and the offers in it include:

• A non-aggression pact lasting for up to ten years (Can be changed)
• A trade agreement, importing linen, chocolate, coffee and deuterium from Onza and exporting to them gas, timber, silk, spices and ceramics
• Immigrations and customs agreements such as allowing Onzaians to stay in Vvarden for visas for six months before renewal
• Educational exchanges

The Senate has also sent out a diplomat to Airatania having begun entering the global stage seeing that the wave of isolationism that once gripped the continent has ended. The diplomat's name is Speaker Ravolora Athrys and she and her team of twelve diplomats have been sent to Airatania to establish an embassy.

More news updates will occur shortly.

[46566]

Grand Duchy seeks to form Gulf Union without Vvarden
Midgar- With the recent Move of Vvarden to not join the Gulf Union. The Grand Duchy will still seek to be a member of such a trade union involving Saratoga and Samakia. Should the Union itself fail in those reaming states then the Grand Duke has stated with the Senates backing to open talks about separate trade deals with the two countries and the nation of Columbia. At this time a delegation has been sent to Saratoga to open ties with the country. The have also been sent to talk about Saratoga joining the Gulf Union.

Grand Duchy seeks to increase diplomatic ties with Onza and Airatania
Midgar- The Grand Duchy has officially sent delegations to the two countries in the hopes of opening ties with the new nations and to seek mutual recognition and future trading prospects. It's the hopes that the Grand Duchy can expand it's trade overseas and to establish ties with other nations around Yukon. By possibly trying to form trading agreements is to help the Grand Duchy's industry continue to prosper and expand. At this point the Grand Duchy needs foreign trade to gain access to resources it doesn't produce.

[The Landfish Colonies]

Government Activity
Dulo Isles Issue

PRS Omari During Combat Exercises

Shots were fired off the coast of the Samakian Home Islands, as the People's Revolutionary Navy began conducting training exercises along with Grand Duchy Armed Forces. Training exercises and wargames included the Samakian 1st Fleet, as well as additional detachments of PRN Marines, air elements, and Grand Duchy assets respectively.

Despite international attention to the matter, the Samakian Government as made no plans of altering their navy's training plan as of yet. The plan is expected to continue as normal until further notice, with the Samakian 1st fleet in waters in between the Samak and Dulo Isles for the next few months. Vvardeni Patrol ships have been warned to stay far from Operational Areas, as well as the Island, Shamballe. Shamballe the Great, regarded as the most powerful Samakian Emperor of all time met is end fighting for the fist Empire against tribes in the north, before being buried on the small island, but is more notable for defeating the Vokun Empire at the Battle of the Salt Sea. A symbol of Samakian power, the Samaki Government requests that no attempt to disturb the old Emperors tomb is made during the Vvardeni occupation of the island.

Furthermore, after much discussion, the Samakian Government had decided to send a diplomatic team to Saratoga in order to further debate solutions to the Dulo Isles Issue on neutral ground. The team, lead by Samakian Prime Minister Kofi Ezekwesili is being sent to represent General Secretary Bankole, in hopes of coming to a consensus to best suite the Samak people. A General turned revolutionary, Kofi Ezekwesili is a wise diplomat, one the General Secretary believes is a powerful representation of Samak interests.

Prime Minister Kofi Ezekwesili

Not much is known of the points Prime Minister Ezekwesili will bring, but a short document detailing the interests of the Samakian government has been released to the public.

The Socialist People's Republic of Samakia requests:

• The cessation of the Vvardeni occupation of the the Dulo Isles
• The cessation of the Vvardeni occupation of the Isle of Shamballe
• That the Vvardeni Government Permit unrestricted Samaki access to the Island of Shamballe for Archaeological Research
• That the Vvardeni Government Permit Unrestricted access for Samaki Civilian vessels through the Islands to promote trade

These terms are only guidelines as of yet, and up for negotiation.

Gulf Union

General Secretary Tymeo Bankole had announced that he will have to respectfully decline the invitation to the Gulf Union by the Grand Duchy and Columbia. Bankole has stated that he does not believe that the deal will serve the best interests of the Party, and thus refuses to join the Union at the present time. Bankole has also made concerns of an international rail system or highway, given the current diplomatic climate, though he made clear that this position could potentially change, should the situation settle.

The Calm...
Gavanay International Airport
Socialist People's Republic of Samakia

A convoy of black SUVs rolled their way across the Airports Tarmac. Before the revolution, Gavanay International had been a bustling center from planes from around the globe, but in recent years, it had become quiet. A shame, because the country was beautiful. Breathtaking beaches and turquoise waters would be the ideal tourist destination. This time of year, traditionally, tourism did tend to slow. "Monsoon Season", did not sound particularly appealing to the average family, and understandably so. The squadron of passenger jets sat parked empty across the runway, some beginning to rust and fall into disrepair. Now, only smaller private craft took off from the airport, and today, only one flight was scheduled for today. A small private jet was parked near a hangar, with shiny white paint, and the Samakian Flag emblazoned on the tail. As the SUVs drove closer, several men came into sight standing around the jet, some in suits, some in uniform. At the head of the group, stood the General Secretary.

The convoy came closer, before slowly coming to a stop. There were about four of them, three filled to the brim with soldiers who jumped out and began to scurry around the third, opening doors for the men inside. From the back seat, step the Samakian Prime Minister Kofi Ezekwesili. A massive man, towering over Bankole at 6'5", and weighing a whopping 260 lbs. Despite his brutish appearance, Ezekwesili had been one of the few Defector Generals in the Republic Army to turn in his uniform in favour of a diplomats suit. Still, the man had a larger than life personality, and a booming voice, so loud Bankole suspected that everyone in Gavanay could hear him.

"Ah! Comrade Tymeo my old friend! It is good to see you!" Kofi approached, extending an arm to Bankole. The General Secretary did the same, pulling himself closer to the large man and patting him hard on the back.

"The same to you, Comrade Kofi." Bankole smiled, stepping back, "Are you ready?"

"I'm always ready!" Kofi boomed, "Just point me in the right direction!"

"I'll leave that up to the pilots, my friend." Bankole pulled a cigar from his breast pocket and lit it, before pulling out an entire pack, handing them to the Prime Minister, "One for the road, eh?"

"Eh, thank you , comrade." Kofi snatched the pack eagerly, "These will not go to waste!"

"I'm sure they will not." Bankole laughed, "Now it is best you get going. The flight to Rogerbei should not take long, but you'd best leave before the storm hits. It is the season, after all."

"That it is, Comrade. You take care..." Kofi placed a hand on Tymeo's shoulder, before nodding and stepping onto the plane. The doors shut behind him, as the engines began to roar. The plane taxied down the driveway, picking up speed, before soaring into the air, black clouds in the distance.

[Croxoco]

DELETED

[Promethius Prime]

Top Headlines
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Brought To You By
The ZetaResh News Corporation

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Foreign Affairs Successes

"The Markgraf von Ulrics announced a
series of major successes in ongoing
areas of foreign policy."

---

Naval Forces Prepare to Take
Joint Responsibility for the
Taranmerea Strait

"The Graf von Terpitz outlines the plan
for joint control of the Taranmerea
Strait."

---

More New Equipment for the
Military

"The T2 'Harpy' and T5 'Hydra' are
formally entered into service in
all branches of the military."

Welcome to the ZetaResh News Corporation Hub, where you can read all the latest news from the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem. The ZetaResh News Corporation has been broadcasting and publishing since the twelfth era and has remained one of the principle Arcadian and Troden news corporations ever since, publishing the most widely circulating newspaper in the country as well as the most watched 24 hour news channel. The ZRNC is incorporated in the IMA of Geddon, and operates out of its headquarters within the city; for more information about the ZRNC and its parent company ZetaResh Incorporated you can visit us online or contact us directly via telephone, post, or email.

Foreign Affairs Successes
The Markgraf von Ulrics announced a series of major successes in ongoing areas of foreign policy.

Rickard Valten, senior diplomat to Columbia.

Further foreign policy successes were today trumpeted by Chief Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics, after a comprehensive Trading Agreement with Columbia was successfully signed by the Emperor, Chancellor von Adenaur, and Columbian President, Harold Lynton. However not only have Troden and Columbian diplomats successfully concluded trade negotiations, but in a surprise move have signed the Tri-Strait Treaty, outlining and recognising the mutual maritime borders of each nation with relation to the other, and forming the basis for control of the three Straits which border the two nations. Further successes have also been seen in Midgar where Troden and Midgari diplomats agreed to a formal embassy exchange deal as well as other agreements. Almost as a footnote to these key successes in foreign policy the Markgraf von Ulrics also announced that Troden diplomats has been received in Saratoga while Saratogan diplomats were welcomed in Geddon, and that further diplomatic parties had been dispatched to Onza and Airatania.

Columbia Update!
The centrepiece of today's announced successes in foreign policy was the signing of the Taranmerea Trading Agreement, seconded only by the concurrent signing of the Tri-Strait Treaty. These key successes have not only specifically strengthened the position of the Markgraf von Ulrics as Chief Minister to the Foreign office, as the man who executed this foreign policy move and thus securing his position within the Imperial Cabinet, but have also led to a strengthening of Chancellor von Adenaur's regime overall as both von Ulrics and the wider public credit von Adenaur with the initiative. The two agreements place the foundations for what is now being referred to as a 'Special Relationship' between Columbia and Trodenhiem and seem to have significantly bolstered the good feeling between the two nations which collectively control the Taranmerea Strait. However the foreign policy implications alone are not the only benefit of this outcome as the Graf von Terpitz, Chief Minister to the Defence Office, pointed out later on in the day - the Tri-Strait Treaty in particular allows Trodenhiem to significantly reduce its defensive deployments along the south coast and share the burden of patrolling the Strait with the Columbian navy.

In the press statement made this morning by the Markgraf von Ulrics himself the terms of the Taranmerea Trading Agreement were set out; the Celestial Empire shall eliminate trading tariffs on and encourage the import of wool, cotton, gold, diamonds, sugar, coffe, tobacco, chocolate, tungsten, orichalcum, and auricupride from Columbia, while Columbia shall eliminate trading tariffs and encourage the import of zinc, titanium, silver, platinum, spices, tea, silk, dyes, deuterium, hepatizon, and ceramics from the Empire. What this means is that there shall be a direct exchange of resources, clearly encouraged by the governments of Trodenhiem and Columbia in mutual cooperation - not only this but as per the Troden proposed Article XIII of the agreement a 'Free Trading Zone' will be established in each nation for the promotion and administration of trade in these goods and others, while it is hoped that in the future these zones shall serve as the anchor for future mutual economic development.

Fig. 1.

Meanwhile the Tri-Strait Agreement sets out the mutual recognition of the maritime borders of Trodenhiem and Columbia, establishing joint control over the Taranmerea Strait as well as free movement within it for both parties by both economic and military traffic on a 'Courtesy Notification' basis. The detailed outline of the agreement makes clear that Trodenhiem and Columbia mutually recognise that their maritime borders extend to a mutually agreed point at which they meet at the closes practicable approximation of half way between each nation's coast. As per the word 'practicable' the agreement as enforced sets the maritime border according to the map in Fig. I. Not only this but the Agreement outlines the plans for future mutual control and responsibility for the Taranuko Strait to the west of Trodenhiem, and the Ukomerea Strait to the west of Columbia, meaning that in due course all three Straits shall fall under the joint control and responsibility of Columbia and Trodenhiem under the same terms as the Taranmerean Strait at present. This is a huge step as it not only sets out plainly the future territorial goals of both nations, but also their intention to retain control of the major shipping lanes into and out of the Weeping Sea.

Grand Duchy Update!
Troden diplomats have reportedly succeeded in securing a deal by which Trodenhiem shall recognise the Grand Duchy and vice versa, following with an agreement to exchange embassies and establish formal lines of communication between the Imperial Government and its counterpart in Midgar. Though progressing somewhat more slowly than negotiations with Columbia the talks with the Grand Duchy, which is the only other nation in the Weeping Sea region to rival Trodenhiem in population size, the mood and attitude prevailing within these talks remains positive and amiable. The Troden delegation has reportedly proposed a series of agreements and in his press statement this morning the Markgraf von Ulrics outlined those as:

• Relaxing of immigration and visa control between Trodenhiem and the Grand Duchy, so as to encourage tourism, business, and educational exchanges.
• The mutual opening of stock, money, and financial markets.
• Trodenhiem's recognition of the Grand Duchy's maritime and territorial claims within the Weeping Sea.
• The Grand Duchy's recognition of the terms of the Tri-Strait Agreement, as negotiated between Columbia and Trodenhiem.
• Trodenhiem agrees to the untaxed movement of the Grand Duchy's economic shipping as far into the Troden controlled sector of the Taranmerea Strait as the Troden Free Economic Zone, in Czerniy.
• A mutual non-aggression pact.

Fresh Diplomats Dispatched
Fresh diplomatic teams have been dispatched to both Onza and Airatania in the hopes of establishing cordial relations with the two most recent nations to enter world affairs. Onza is a large and fairly isolationist Merean nation situated to the east of Columbia which, significantly, produces a large proportion of the world's linen and has considerable copper reserves as yet unextracted within its lands. Airatania meanwhile is situated to the northeast of of Trodenhiem itself along the border with the province of Trodenia and is a nation of like size with Onza, but which, of key concern to Trodenhiem, produces a significant quantity of uranium.

The Onzan delegation's chief priority will be to secure trading agreements to encourage the export of linen and copper, while also hoping to come to some arrangement relating to recognition of borders. While the Markgraf von Ulrics has expressed his hope that Onza will not try to extend its reach to the west of its present borders he has not stipulated this as a condition of good relations as yet, and has made clear that his key priority is to establish trading lanes. The Airatanian delegation's chief priority at this time is to secure a trading agreement to encourage the export of uranium, while also hoping to come to an agreement on the recognition of borders and of future territorial claims; the Markgraf von Ulrics has made much firmer statements on this subject, particularly with relation to possible Airatanian expansion westwards.

Threat of Action Over Dulo Isles Crisis
The Markgraf von Ulrics, and his counterpart in the Defence Office, the Graf von Terpitz, have made a joint statement threatening 'significant action' if the two parties do not find a peaceful solution to the crisis in the Dulo Isles. While the meaning of 'significant action' remains undefined by the Defence Office the Foreign Office has given clarity that it would begin with the withdrawal of diplomats and escalate to diplomatic and economic sanctions if the situation is not properly resolved. Both Ministers condemned the aggressive actions, particularly on the part of Samakia, and reaffirmed the previous statement which recognises the present territorial extent of Samakia and Vvarden. Much of the rhetoric in their statement was chiefly directed towards Samakia, rather than Vvarden, leading many to conclude that the government primarily blames the Samakian communist government for the escalation of tensions.

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The Celestial Empire of
Trodenhiem

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Government Communique
Formal Trading Proposals to the Grand Duchy

His Celestial Majesty the Emperor, Konstantin IX, and his Chief Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics have met with numerous advisors, ministers, and civil servants - as well as with the Grand Duchy's diplomatic delegation, and have discussed at length a trading agreement that the Empire wishes to forward for your consideration. We wish to outline the formal terms of the agreement as follows:

ARTICLE I: Both the Celestial Empire and the Grand Duchy agree to the relaxing of immigration and visa controls between the two nations, so as to encourage tourism, business, and educational exchanges. This would include more streamlined visa and immigration procedures, greater ease of travel and fully recognised travel rights and freedom of movement to all passport holders.

ARTICLE II: Both the Celestial Empire and the Grand Duchy agree to the mutual opening of stock, money, and financial markets. This will mean that businesses from both nations may operate freely within these aforementioned markets so long as they adhere to the laws and regulations of the nation in which they are trading, and pay the appropriate taxes on their earnings through this business.

ARTICLE III: The Celestial Empire agrees to the untaxed movement of the Grand Duchy's economic shipping as far into the Troden controlled sector of the Taranmerea Strait as the Troden Free Economic Zone, in Czerniy. And shipping wishing to pass beyond this point will have to pay the usual trading tariffs as imposed by the respective owner of the territorial waters in question.

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Government Communique
Proposed Treaty of Mutual Recognition with the Grand Duchy

In addition to trading agreements it is the wish of His Imperial Majesty that a Mutual Recognition Treaty be signed between our two countries; this Treaty would set out the formal terms of mutual recognition for each nation and form the basis of future diplomatic relations.

ARTICLE I: The Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem shall recognise the Grand Duchy's maritime and territorial claims within the Weeping Sea as of the signing of this Treaty.

ARTICLE II: The Grand Duchy shall recognise the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem's maritime and territorial claims within Taran and the Three Straits.

ARTICLE III: The Grand Duchy shall recognise of the terms of the Tri-Strait Agreement, as negotiated between Columbia and Trodenhiem.

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All Communications Signed And Sealed
Imperial Foreign Office & Office of HCM Konstantin IX

((OOC: Finance Investment for June; 300 Finance spent of 12 Tech. 6 Tech invested in the T2 Harpy, 6 Tech Invested in the T5 Hydra.))

[Promethius Prime]

The Celestial Empire of
Trodenhiem

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Government Communique
Formal Economic Proposals to Airatania

His Supreme Imperial Majesty the Emperor, Konstantin IX, and his Chief Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics have met with numerous advisors, ministers, and civil servants - as well as with Airatania's diplomatic delegation, and have discussed at length a trading agreement that the Empire wishes to forward for your consideration. We wish to outline the formal terms of the agreement as follows:

ARTICLE I: Both the Celestial Empire and Airatania agree to the relaxing of immigration and visa controls between the two nations, so as to encourage tourism, business, and educational exchanges. This would include more streamlined visa and immigration procedures, greater ease of travel and fully recognised travel rights and freedom of movement to all passport holders.

ARTICLE II: Both the Celestial Empire and Airatania agree to the mutual opening of stock, money, and financial markets. This will mean that businesses from both nations may operate freely within these aforementioned markets so long as they adhere to the laws and regulations of the nation in which they are trading, and pay the appropriate taxes on their earnings through this business.

ARTICLE III: The Celestial Empire agrees to the untaxed movement of Airatania's economic shipping as far into the Troden controlled sector of the Taranmerea Strait as the Troden Free Economic Zone, in Czerniy. And shipping wishing to pass beyond this point will have to pay the usual trading tariffs as imposed by the respective owner of the territorial waters in question.

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Government Communique
Proposed Treaty of Mutual Recognition with Airatania

In addition to the aforementioned economic agreements it is the wish of His Supreme Imperial Majesty that a Mutual Recognition Treaty be signed between our two countries; this Treaty would set out the formal terms of mutual recognition for each nation and form the basis of future diplomatic relations.

ARTICLE I: The Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem shall recognise Airatania's maritime and territorial claims within the Weeping Sea as of the signing of this Treaty.

ARTICLE II: Airatania shall recognise the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem's maritime and territorial claims within Taran and the Three Straits.

ARTICLE III: Airatania shall recognise of the terms of the Tri-Strait Agreement, as negotiated between Columbia and Trodenhiem.

ARTICLE IV: The Celestial Empire shall recognise Airatania's right to expand its territories north as far as the Kavoan Ocean and as far west as the Blucher-Herzog Line, unimpeded through the use of diplomatic, economic, or military sanctions.

ARTICLE V: Airatania shall recognise The Celestial Empire's right to expand its territories north as far as the Kavoan Ocean so long as no territorial expansions are made east of the Blucher-Herzog Line, unimpeded through the use of diplomatic, economic, or military sanctions.

ARTICLE VI: Airatania and the Celestial Empire agree to a state of mutual non-aggression, of a military nature, so long as the terms of this treaty are not infringed.

The Blucher-Herzog Line.

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Government Communique
Specific Trading Proposals to Airatania

Finally His Supreme Imperial Majesty the Emperor, Konstantin IX, and his Chief Minister to the Foreign Office, the Markgraf von Ulrics wish to forward the following agreement for Airatania's consideration:

ARTICLE I: Airatania shall export URANIUM exclusively to the Celestial Empire of Trodenhiem, and by extension through the Celestial Empire's existing agreements, Columbia.

ARTICLE II: URANIUM shall be considered a controlled substance the trade of which is to be government by a bilateral agreement between Airatania and the Celestial Empire, whereby any sale or trading of URANIUM to nations other than Trodenhiem or Columbia, by Airatania, must be agreed to by such a body as both parties see fit to appoint.

ARTICLE III: The Celestial Empire shall encourage the export of TEA, SILKS, DYES, and SPICES to Airatania by reducing export tariffs to said nation and offering subsidies to businesses for specific exportation to Airatania. HOWEVER the Airatanian government accepts that prior trading agreements which the Celestial Empire has with Columbia take precedence in this regard - therefore tariffs shall not be eliminated altogether.

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All Communications Signed And Sealed
Imperial Foreign Office & Office of HSIM Konstantin IX
His Supreme Imperial Majesty, Konstantin IX, Autocrat of Arcadia Once Great; King of the Troden, Promethians, and Zues; Tyrant of Thedes and Emperor and Autocrat of the Four Cadias, and Prince of the Ruhr; Elector of the Crimson Throne; By the Grace of the Thirteen, Emperor of Trodenhiem and Defender of the Realm.