Cup of Harmony 62 - Everything Thread

by **Turori** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 3:08 pm

Cup of Harmony Champions
Post World Cup 26; Post World Cup 32
Pre-WC 15 Baptism of Fire Champions

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:: National Team Factsheet ::

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Nation:	The Island Emirate of Turori
Nickname:	the 'Eels'
First World Cup:	World Cup 15
Region:
Weather:	Mostly Tropical
Map:	Map of Turori

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:: TRIGRAMME [TUR] ::
:: STYLE [-1.0] ::

Head Coach: Mumau Atla-Siioai
A Dual Vilita & Turori National, Atla-Siioai was invited to the Vilitan World Cup 57 Training camp - but so were 6 other goalkeepers. Atla-Siioai transferred from the Kionao Locals to Vilitan side Turoki United for the V-League 27 season. While his play for Turoki was solid, the impact of Atla-Siioai's presence was most evident back in Turori as the Locals were relegated from the V-League with a club record 20 defeats. While showing the importance of having Atla-Siioai in the squad, the fact that the Goalkeeper left the Locals high and dry has not left a good impression on their Turorian fanbase. Atla-Siioai has, however, made a name for himself in Turoki, repeatedly being named Supporters Player of the Season and leading the team into UICA Competition places including the clubs first UICA Champions Cup appearance following Season 36. Atla-Siioai has been the Player of the Year at Turoki United every season since joining the club. Atla-Siioai was named Turorian player of the season during Season 41 when he led Turoki United to their second Vilitan Cup title and again when leading Turoki United to their first Vilitan Stellar Division championship during Season 42, also leading the Turori National Team to the Second Round of the World Cup. Atla-Siioai would lead Turoki United to a repeat Stellar Division championship during Season 43, and would lead his club to the UICA Champions Cup Final. Although defeated in the final, Atla-Siioai's performances earned him the reputation as one of the top goalkeepers in the world. Atla-Siioai retired officially after Turori's failed World Cup 70 Qualification campaign, after which, he took over as National Team head coach.

The coaches will select the squad from the National Player pool. Players are listed below, grouped by position and sorted by projection 'Depth Chart' position where the top player listed is most likely to be named the first player selected for that position, and so on. Depth chart positions are determined by performance in pre-cup training sessions, as well as performance and average ratings in the Vilitan League competition and previous appearances for the National Team.

GOALKEEPERS:

[ 93 ] G.Q Disterfred II [ - Turoki Isle (Vilita) - ]
------- GK ( AGE: 23 CAPS: 19 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Young prospect Disterfred pushed Inura Forests into the top half of the Season 38 Declasse, earning player of the season honors at the club and earning recognition as a serious propsect for the National Team. Disterfred was a member of the AOCAF 41 Championship Winning side, but did not start any of the 7 matches en-route to the title. When head coach Nycflala Kater took a back seat early in the competition during AOCAF 42, however, Disterfred had his chance to play as Vilita & Turori earned their second consecutive AOCAF title. However, Disterfred's domestic career took a negative turn when Inura Forests were relegated out of the Vilitan League, prompting a cross-country transfer to the Kionao Locals in the Declasse division. Despite the strong leadership of Lita Adjei and good performances in the UICA Competitions, Kionao was unable to get promoted and eventually Disterfred would move to Turoki Isle in order to get a chance to play in the Stellar Division

[ 92 ] Sharif Deniibo [ - Lonngeylin City (Vilita) - ]
------- GK ( AGE: 21 CAPS: 5 :: GOALS::SR: U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Snapped up at a young age by the Turoki Tide who identified a young Deniibo as an ideal prospect to play along side and be tutored by the Tide's Turorian National team goalkeeper Hooizo Nuakoi. After spending 5 seasons as apprentice to Nuakoi in Turoki, Deniibo switched to Lonngeylin City in an attempt to get regular first team action.

[ 94 ] Mitimi Obalialo [ - Eelandii Academy - ]
------- GK ( AGE: 15 CAPS: 0 :: GOALS::SR: U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

DEFENDERS:

[ 53 ] Tarek Edgeli [ - Strike FC (Vilita) - ]
------- D RLC ( AGE: 19 CAPS: 36 :: GOALS::SR: 2 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
After spending 3 seasons being trained in Crosaibi at Marine Coast United, Edgeli made the switch down the coast to the Lonngeylin Coliseum for Season 43. While Strike were unable to win any silverware, Edgeli fit straight into the squad as one of the top performing defenders in the entire league earning instant plaudits and recognition back in Turori.

[ 57 ] Dmitri Levada [ - Cednia Beach AFC - ]
------- D LC ( AGE: 20 CAPS: 23 :: GOALS::SR: 1 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
After being part of the Vilita & Turori squad that won AOCAF 42, Levada was a member of the Cednia Beach AFC squad that won the Vilitan Cup during Season 43, and subsequently went on to win the 50th UICA Globe Cup, the first ever UICA Top-Level Champions from Turori.

[ 54 ] Oani Moralziia [ - Cednia Beach AFC - ]
------- D RL ( AGE: 21 CAPS: 25 :: GOALS::SR: 1 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
After being part of the Vilita & Turori squad that won AOCAF 42, Moralziia was a member of the Cednia Beach AFC squad that won the Vilitan Cup during Season 43, and subsequently went on to win the 50th UICA Globe Cup, the first ever UICA Top-Level Champions from Turori.

[ 52 ] Geafi Laina-Sola [ - Mliona-Lpaka AFC - ]
------- D RLC ( AGE: 21 CAPS: 27 :: GOALS::SR: 1 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Laina-Sola started their career as a training in Inura before being spotted by the big clubs and playing a few seasons with Jlinal Cove and Makosile in Vilita. Then, however, the young Turorian defender finally made the big move home to Mliona-Lpaka in time for V-League Season 44.

[ 6 ] Inaosnaa Klanoa [ - Eastal Lunar (Vilita) - ]
------- D RLC ( AGE: 22 CAPS: 14 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Klanoa was named Eastal Lunar player of the season during Season 43 leading the team to the Declasse title and promotion to the Stellar Division.

[ 56 ] Majid Jedidi [ - Kiiarana City (Vilita) - ]
------- D C ( AGE: 19 CAPS: 11 :: GOALS::SR: 1 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Jedidi made the move from Turori to Kiiarana City on the western shore of Vilita prior to V-League season 44.

[ 66 ] Yitizo Mpala'a [ - Eelandii Academy - ]
------- D C ( AGE: 15 CAPS: 0 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

DEFENSIVE MID:

[ 24 ] Klaillal Tuirma [ - Mliona-Lpaka - ]
------- ATH ( AGE: 28 CAPS: 54 :: GOALS::SR: 8 )
Descendant of Season 4 Turorian Player of the Season and National team legend Cuolia Tuirma, Klaillal will work with Restiaa Mumamba to become the future "All-Around" player for the Turori National Team. Playing in a unique role, Tuirma will be expected to fill the role of being able to play every game, in every position - even Goalkeeper, if there are no subs left. Tuirma will certainly be starting as a substitute during their debut campaign in World Cup 62 but may get the chance to start against weaker opposition. After being brought up through the academy system at Kionao, Tuirma signed a professional contract with Colonial Sile in Vilita for Season 35, winning silverware in the first match, the Tropical Trophy triumph over Strike. Tuirma's stay in Sile didn't last long, however, coaxed back to the luxury of Arcticala Inlet to help in their Champions-Cup qualifying campaign of Season 38. Tuirma returned to Turori during Season 44 as a member of Mliona-Lpaka AFC

[ 22 ] Restiaa Mumamba [ - Yeaddin Owls (Vilita) - ]
------- ATH ( AGE: 36 CAPS: 132 :: GOALS::SR: 7 )
Mumamba was the definition of a versatile player for Vilita's Yeaddin Owls after joining them for the V-League 27 season from Jlinal Cove FC. Mumamba played in every position from Central Defender to Striker, scoring a game winning goal in one game and a game saving tackle in the next. Mumamba is an expert choice for a third sub or to allow tactical changes on the pitch without substitutions being made. The strong and versatile performances of Mumamba during Season 28 earned Mumamba a high profile transfer to defending Stellar Division champions Arcticala Inlet but he left the Electricians the following season to be apart of the growing Yeaddin Owls squad. Mumamba spent 4 seasons in Yeaddin without recording any meaningful domestic awards other than the Season 29 Turorian Player of the Season award. The lure of international competition was too great for Mumamba who joined the Turoki Tide for Season 34, doing so in time for their 43rd UICA Cycle run. Mumamba helpd the Tide lift the UICA Globe Cup and UICA Super Cup, one of three Turorian players on the roster for the Tide's Triumph. However, after achieving glory with the Tide, Mumamba returned to his former club Yeaddin, vowing to one day bring the same success back to the Lirai Asku Castle.

MIDFIELDERS:

[ 22 ] Etamara Kulkkiia [ - AC Izotz Zubia (AUD) - ]
------- AM C ( AGE: 25 CAPS: 86 :: GOALS::SR: 9 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Kulkkiia was developed at the Cednia Beach Academy having been highly scouted and recruited by teams throughout Turori and even Vilita. After the Turori Eels failure to qualify for World Cup 64, Kulkkiia became the subject of media attention questioning whether the aging crop of players should make way for younger players like Kulkkiia in the Esportiva-hosted Cup of Harmony for World Cup 64. Kulkkiia added his name to the long line of major transfers involving Cednia Beach after being transferred to SC Montfort in the Licentian Isles prior to Season 42

[ 23 ] Inlite Makakio [ - Arcticala Inlet (Vilita) - ]
------- M LC ( AGE: 23 CAPS: 47 :: GOALS::SR: 8 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
The twin brother of Strike FC attacking sesation Enluta Makakio, Inlite started his career as 2 time player of the year at Inura Forests before making the jump to Vilita, eventually landing a transfer to Arcticala Inlet for V-League season 44.

[ ] Aiden Varess [ - Cednia Beach AFC - ]
------- M RC ( AGE: 20 CAPS: 20 :: GOALS::SR: 5 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

[ ] Kigaoua Oalalka [ - Strike FC (Vilita) - ]
------- M RC ( AGE: 22 CAPS: 34 :: GOALS::SR: 7 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Oalalka never could get settled down in Vilita, taking trial runs at clubs such as the Turoki Tide, Inland Peaks and Mavaloiao before switching gears and looking at international transfer options.

[ ] Nubara Moafalia [ - Yeaddin Owls (Vilita) - ]
------- M LC ( AGE: 19 CAPS: 9 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
After coming up throught the academy system at Mliona-Lpaka, Moafalia saw the opportunity to become a star player for the Yeaddin Owls - trading in his role as a substitute in Turori for the limelight at the Lirai Asku Castle ahead of V-League season 44.

[ ] Teliima Loinara [ - Sporta Eelandii - ]
------- M LC ( AGE: 19 CAPS: 14 :: GOALS::SR: 4 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

[ ] Mbdiai Akarenaa [ - Eelandii Academy - ]
------- M LC ( AGE: 15 CAPS: 0 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

FORWARDS:

[ 34 ] Inamari Altariiz [ - Mliona-Lpaka - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 23 CAPS: 60 :: GOALS::SR: 17 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Altariiz was instantly identified as a high-quality prospect at Mliona-Lpaka and was promoted to the senior squad at 16 years of age taking up a starting role in Mliona-Lpaka's Season 38 campaign. Altariiz was named Mliona-Lpaka's player of the season for 39 & 40 in addition to being named Turorian Player of the Season during Season 40 after leading MLiona-Lpaka to the Vilitan Cup title.

[ 31 ] Matlya Eelador [ - Cednia Beach AFC - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 23 CAPS: 39 :: GOALS::SR: 16 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Although Eelador was never known as being the most prolific scorer in the Vilitan League, he regularly put forth consistent performances for his club. Eelador was a member of the Cednia Beach AFC squad that won the Vilitan Cup during Season 43, and subsequently went on to win the 50th UICA Globe Cup, the first ever UICA Top-Level Champions from Turori.

[ 25 ] Enluta Makakio [ - Strike FC (Vilita) - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 23 CAPS: 35 :: GOALS::SR: 18 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
After coming through the ranks in Kionao, Makakio's performances got the attention of the scouts at Strike FC who signed the young Turorian attacker for their Season 39 campaign.

[ ] Mirana Gotuai [ - Mist City Floatzels (NSI) - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 18 CAPS: 2 :: GOALS::SR: 2 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]
Gotuai left with his family to the warmth of the Northern Sunrise Islands but never stopped playing the sport he loved, joining the Mist City Floatzels. Not looking to lose track of this potentially exciting attacking prospect, the Turorian Football Association invited Gotuai to train and travel with the team during Qualifications for World Cup 68. Gotuai made a surprise debut appearance for the Eels as a half-time substitute against Gregoryisgodistan and did one better by scoring the equalizing goal late in the match to keep Turori's unbeaten World Cup 68 Qualifying record in tact.

[ ] Meldi'ita Mungwaii [ - Inura Forests - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 16 CAPS: 6 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

[ ] Wiztsana Iretziia [ - Eelandii Academy - ]
------- F C ( AGE: 15 CAPS: 0 :: GOALS::SR: 0 U21: REG: ) :: [ N/R ]

I Give My Opponent Permission To:		
	====================		
	Choose Scorers: Y		
	GodMod Goalscoring Events: Y		
			
	Injure Players: Y (Limited to Duration of Competition)		
	GodMod Injury Events Y (Limited to Duration of Competition)		
			
	Red Card Players: Y   (TG After RP is Posted to Inform)		
	Yellow Card Players: Y		
	GodMod Other Events: Y		
	===================

by **Jeckland** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 4:54 pm

CUP OF HARMONY - PREVIEW AND GROUP PREDICTIONS

So, it's almost time for Jeckland to play in their first ever Cup of Harmony. Isn't that nice? But we have to remember that there are 31 other teams here. We've made predictions for the other seven groups, followed by an in depth preview of Group B, which contains the Spuds.

Group A
Red Blackiland (85)
Bears Armed (36)
Abanhfleft (97)
Yttribia (46)

This is a real humdinger of a group. Bears Armed are no mugs (they're bears, though it'd be much cooler if they were drinking mugs), but they must contend with the forces of Cup of Harmony 61 hosts Yttribia, a Red Blackiland side who've come of age this cycle, almost making the playoffs in the process, and Abanhfleft, a stellar side in their debut cycle. I'm going to go all out and predict the Bears will finish bottom - with Yttribia winning the group. Red Blackiland will fight off Abanhfleft for second.

Group C
Schottia (87)
Ceni (73)
Neu Engollon (38)
Turori (10)

Turori have got to be the favourites here after the bitter disappointment in their qualifying campaign as the usually reliable Eels failed to even make the playoffs. Neu Engollon are always there or thereabouts in terms of qualifying, but it wasn't to be this time so they'll be looking for a strong showing here. The other two sides, Schottia and Ceni, are both similar - decent sides that have never kicked on and seriously threatened to qualify for the World Cup. I can't see anything but Turori top and Neu Engollon second, and I reckon Ceni will edge out Schottia for third.

Group D
Furellum (59)
Holy Republican Empire (9)
Electrum (65)
Wolfbenz (120)

Holy Republican Empire are probably the favourites for the whole tournament, let alone the group, especially given that just four years ago they were lining up against Vilita in the World Cup Final. Furellum are a side making steady progress, who might have a crack at a qualification in a cycle or two. Electrum continue to improve and impress, with a run to the playoffs in qualifying. Wolfbenz are only in their first cycle, but looked good for rookies in qualifying and have the chance to show their worth here. HRE will walk this group, with Electrum squeaking past Furellum for second. Wolfbenz just aren't ready to threaten yet.

Group E
Isula ĝe Ru (88)
Starblaydia (45)
Kinitaria (33)
Sandwich Territories (61)

This one;s really interesting. Kinitaria are treaditionally very strong, but after a frankly abysmal qualification campaign doubts can be raised over whether they are a spent force. Speaking of spent forces, five time world champions Starblaydia are in this group, but will be very dangerous on their day. Sandwich Territories are another of those sides that seems to hover just outside the teams gunning for qualification. Isula ge Ru are the BoF champions, and very good, as our Spuds found out. I'm backing Starblaydia to win the group, with Isula ge Ru close behind. Kinitaria can console themselves with third over Sandwich Territories.

Group F
Apox (28)
United States of Devonta (143)
Cosumar (52)
Greater Watford (69)

Apox always seem on the brink of breaking into the elite group of natioins, but it's not happened for them yet. 'Cosumar are a very capable side, but never seem to get the break in qualifying these days. Greater Watford shook of the tag of mid-rank nobodies this cycle, reaching the playoffs, and will be keen to build on that here. United States of Devonta are a side in their first cycle with the lowest rank in the competition, but no pushover. Apox will win this one, with Cosumar second and Greater Watford third. Devonta will be cut adrift in last.

Group G
Semarland (101)
Chiata (24)
Jeruselem (37)
Gloriax (77)

After their shock run last time, Chiata came back down to earth with an almighty crash bang wallop in qualifying, and will be looking to prove that that run wasn't a fluke. Jeruselem are always floating in or very near to the World Cup, and their danger shouldn't be underestimated. Gloriax are a side with potential, but have never quite kicked on to achieving it. Semarland, on the other hand, are kicking quite nicely, though are a yonger side. I fancy Chiata to win this one, with Gloriax a shock second. Jeruselem will be left to lick their wounds in third, with Semarland fourth.

Group H
Star United States (55)
Barunia (26)
Hicaña (76)
The Saint James Islands (96)

Oooh, tasty. Barunia will be disappointed but not overly shocked at not making the main event, and out to prove themselves. Star United States are a side very much on the up and a good bet for qualification in the not-too-distant future. Hicana are improving, despite all the madness that goes on there (seriously, WTF?), and The Saint James Islands are an up and coming side who have proven their ability to ruffle feathers. Barunia will win this one, with Hicana suprisingly pipping Star United States to second place. The Saint James Islands will come last.

And now, on to Group B, with in depth analysis on our three opponents.

Gylias
Qualifying: 5th in Group 18 (7-2-7)

A debutant nation never has an easy ride in their first cycle. Most finish near the bottom of their qualifying groups, never to be seen again. But not this lot, who rose to the challenge, earning a respectable fifth place in Group 18 over very capable nations such as Milchama. Although they are the lowest seed in this group and seen by some as an easy three points, this lot have already proven their ability to triumph against the odds. So this won't be easy.

Did You Know: Gylias are the only nation in this group to be in their debut cycle, and along with our Spuds the only one to be in their first Cup of Harmony

Gregoryisgodistan
Qualifying: 4th in Group 2 (8-5-3)

After a poor qualifying campaing where their head coach was brutally murdered (this lot are bastards, in case you hadn't noticed), the Foot Slaves return to a competition which has been a happy hunting ground for them. Cup of Harmony 60 saw them reach the semi-finals against the odds, with the following CoH, seeing them make the final, only to lose in a dramatic penalty shootout to Nephara. Although they are not amongst the very favourites on paper, they're surely in the mix.

Did You Know: Gregoryisgodistan is the highest ranked nation never to qualify for a World Cup, making Group B the only group without a previous World Cup qualifier in it.

Kazamatsuri

A strange nation who've never made the World Cup proper, but wouldn't look out of place doing so. This nation also has a pedigree in the Cup of Harmony, hosting the tournament just two editions ago, although the less than ideal conditions caused controversy and the melting of the Cup itself. From the same Batptism of Fire are Gregoryisgodistan, they'll be a formidable threat.

Predictions, Match by Match

MD1: Gylias 0-2 Kazamatsuri
Gregoryisgodistan 1-0 Jeckland

MD2: Jeckland 3-2 Kazamatsuri
Gylias 0-3 Gregoryisgodistan

MD3: Gregoryisgodistan 1-1 Kazamatsuri
Gylias 0-2 Jeckland

Final Standings
1) Gregoryisgodistan, 7 points
2) Jeckland, 6 points
3) Kazamatsuri, 4 points
4) Gylias, 0 points

by **Ceni** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 5:15 pm

CENIAN TEAM SHEET - CUP OF HARMONY 62
CLICK FOR PERMISSIONS/STYLE
CLICK FOR STARTING LINEUP

by **Chiata** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 5:57 pm

Chiata Times
Back to the Cup of Harmony

Well here we are again. Chiata made another glorious flop and ended up back in the Cup of Harmony. Six cycles in and were back to our rights. Kind of. This will the the third time Chiata has participated in the Cup of Harmony, having already participated in the 58th and 60th editions. CoH 58 had a five nations per group Group Stage that treated Chiata to a 1-1-2 record and a deserving 4th place out of five. Needless to say, that was the end of the cycle for the Suns. Chiata would have a gap year before being invited again to the CoH 60 after Chiata fell down a single place and ended up knocked out of the playoffs, which even were lowered to three nations from every group in WC 68. The CoH that cycle had the traditional eight groups and saw Chiata placed in Group B. A 3-1 loss to Jeru FC, a measly 1-0 win over Zenic, and nail-biting 1-0 loss to Equestrian States resulted in Chiata missing the next round once again, ending the cycle of disappointment in disappointment. We all remember what happened in WC 69, as it is etched in ever Suns fan across the nation. Sadly, it seems to have been a fluke as Chiata maddeningly missed qualification because they were unable to perform against the minnows of the group in WC70. Quite strangely, the Chiata Suns went 2-3-1 against the three teams above them in qualifying. Luckily, Chiata showed enough promise, or pity, that they were invited to Cup of Harmony 62 for round three.

For the first time in history, Chiata was drawn as a number one and was given command of Group G. Somehow, despite the dismal performance, Chiata's rank rose to twenty-four. Before everyone gets to excited, it will fall dramatically after everyone else around Chiata in the rankings will receive their World Cup Proper points. The two seed in the group is 37th ranked Jeruselem, a nation that has participated in WCC events for ages. Although the closest game Chiata should come away with a hard fought win. Only on paper, of course, as Beauce can attest to. The distant three seed is Gloriax. The Black Tigers simply don't match well against the Suns and should, should..., fall to a 'superior' Chiatan side. Actually, the Gloriax media had the audacity to predict Chiata, the number one seed, to fall to third and miss out, yet again, on the knock out stages. ~~They have absolutely no grounds to say such~~... Well actually, Chiata has been known to flop. WC 68 saw them drop a spot and miss the playoffs by a hair. This cycle saw them fall from 2nd to 4th in a single matchday. The last matchday, of course. Anyway, the 4th seed is Semarland who should be easily chewed up by the Suns, spit out, and their little bits caught between the teeth removed with a tooth pick. There, we used imagery. As it will always be because the Suns refuse to be predictable, there's an emphasis on the should. Now to go through this match by match.

MD1 Results:
Semarland 4-3 Gloriax
Chiata 1-1 Jeruselem

------------------------Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Semarland               1    1   0   0     4    3   +1     3
2 Chiata                  1    0   1   0     1    1    0     1
  Jeruselem               1    0   1   0     1    1    0     1
4 Gloriax                 1    0   0   1     3    4   −1     0

Opening matchday sees the top two seeds pitted against one another. Chiata plays a good game and so does Jeruselem. The Suns flop in the end and the day ends in 1-1 a draw. Gloriax and Semarland duke it out for a chance at qualification. Semarland summons the courage and wins in a 4-3 shootout that had fans on the edge of their seats. Semarland manages to climb to first because the top flights drew each other while Gloriax is sitting on the bottom.

MD2 Results:
Gloriax 0-2 Jeruselem
Semarland 0-1 Chiata

------------------------Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Jeruselem               2    1   1   0     3    1   +2     4
2 Chiata                  2    1   1   0     2    1   +1     4
3 Semarland               2    1   0   1     4    4    0     3
4 Gloriax                 2    0   0   2     3    6   −3     0

In matchday two, Chiata is set to play against upstart Semarland. Semarland remains nothing more than upstarts as Chiata uncharacteristically come through in a big moment and wrap up a 1-0 win. Gloriax, still demoralized from their upset loss against Semarland, is painfully pulverized to a pulp by a perfect patchwork of play and alliteration from Jeruselem, resulting in a 2-0 win for Jeru. Jeruselem stands atop the group, but only by a single goal as Chiata fallows closely behind. Semarland lurks at third place only a point behind while Gloriax has been eliminated. Serves them right for predicting us to finish third. And no, we are not bias.

MD3 Results:
Jeruselem 3-2 Semarland
Chiata 3-0 Gloriax

------------------------Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Chiata                  3    2   1   0     5    1   +4     7
2 Jeruselem               3    2   1   0     6    3   +3     7
3 Semarland               3    1   0   2     6    7   −1     3
4 Gloriax                 3    0   0   3     3    9   −6     0

The final matchday begins as teams across the Cup fight for a spot in the knockout rounds. Chiata luckily plays the now crushed Gloriax side. They seem to have no fight left and the supposedly world class and ex-world cup qualifiers, yes we mean Chiata, speed to a 3-0 smash out victory. Jeruselem and Semarland play the arguably most exciting, and most important, match of the group. In winner-takes-all fashion, Jeruselem staves off the youngsters and achieves a clutch 3-2 win. Both of the top two teams win and secure a spot into the knockout rounds while the bottom two are out of luck. Chiata, by a single goal differential, claims the group over Jeruselem, who along with Chiata has a hard earned and well deserved seven points. Semarland, despite their best efforts, have only a single win to show for. The divide between their 101st rank and the second seeds 37th was simply to much. Gloriax lays in a heap at the bottom of the group, broken and bruised, battered and bewildered, and the Chiata times has been caught using alliteration, and referencing it, one too many times.

by **Mizuyuki** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 8:20 pm

MATCH DAY 1
GROUPS E-H RESULTS

Group E

Isula ĝe Ru 1–1 Sandwich Territories
@ Kagura Arashi Stadium, Mizuyuki

Starblaydia 2–1 Kinitaria
@ Samukawa Municipal Stadium, Mizuyuki

  Group E                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Starblaydia                   1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
2 Isula ĝe Ru                   1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
  Sandwich Territories          1   0  1  0    1   1   0    1
4 Kinitaria                     1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0

Group F

Apox 1–0 Greater Watford
@ Amaya Skylight Dome, Mizuyuki

United States of Devonta 0–0 Cosumar
@ Koiiro Aisaka Stadium, Mizuyuki

  Group F                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Apox                          1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
2 Cosumar                       1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  United States of Devonta      1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
4 Greater Watford               1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0

Group G

Semarland 2–1 Gloriax
@ Shiha Kisaragi Stadium, Mizuyuki

Chiata 1–0 Jeruselem
@ Mirai-kan, Mizuyuki

  Group G                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Semarland                     1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
2 Chiata                        1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Gloriax                       1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0
4 Jeruselem                     1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0

Group H

Star United States 3–2 The Saint James Islands
@ Ringo Acta Dome, Mizuyuki

Barunia 3–2 Hicaña
@ Utsukushii Chikyū Taiiku-kan, Mizuyuki

  Group H                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Barunia                       1   1  0  0    3   2  +1    3
  Star United States            1   1  0  0    3   2  +1    3
3 Hicaña                        1   0  0  1    2   3  −1    0
  The Saint James Islands       1   0  0  1    2   3  −1    0

by **Felix** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 8:45 pm

MATCH DAY 1
GROUPS A-D RESULTS

Group A

Red Blackiland 2–3 Yttribia

@ Estadio Nacional (Capacity: 88,000)

Bears Armed 3–0 Abanhfleft

@ Estadio Universidadio (Capacity: 75,000)

Group B

Gylias 4–5 Kazamatsuri

@ San Pozo (Capacity: 86,000)

Gregoryisgodistan 0–2 Jeckland

@ Stade de Lyon (Capacity: 80,000)

Group C

Schottia 2–4 Turori

@ Stadia Volker (Capacity: 90,000)

Ceni 2–1 Neu Engollon

@ Sieberg Stadium (Capacity: 77,500)

Group D

Electrum 1–1 Furellum

@ Port York City Stadium (Capacity: 70,000)

Holy Republican Empire 4–2 Wolfbenz

@ Felixian Airlines Stadium (Capacity: 70,000)

by **Red Blackiland** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 10:50 pm

Ultras Chronicles Blog

Rocks in the road : Again..other lose!

Here,other lose,after the giant flop and the disappointing World Cup Qualifiers final for Red Blackiland,now the 'Dark Lions' losed to Yttribia by 2-3 in the game of much defensive errors of the team.The willpower that was talked so much in our articles,was not seen in the game,despite the attack played very well,give dangerous attacks against Yttribia and make two goals,the rest don't played well,and certainly is,this game against the strong team of Yttribia,a game to pick all errors and fix all of them,fast and urgent,since the next game is against Bears Armed,and they are ample favorite for this match.

Red Blackiland Infamous Ultras Pyro in one of the roads near the Estádio Nacional.

Red Blackiland Infamous Ultras Pyro Party at Estádio Nacional.The Ultras received a repression by the Police.

At least,was possible to the Infamous Ultras make your 'actions' how as always,a great 'Pyro Show or Party' was made between one of the roads near Estádio Nacional (Infamous Ultras suceed buy tickets for only section of the stadium in the Red Blackiland half of it),your revigorant chants,the meeting pre and pos-game,the beer,the return from the stadium,the loud cry after the goal in the celebration and the hands in the head in Yttribian goals.
The Ultras as we said received a repression by the Felixian Police,by the giant pyroshow not good seen in WorldWide National Teams events,negotiations between the government agents of Felix and Red Blackiland was made and all the members was sent again to the country.

For a stratified soccer : The project of Neucindo Joffre

Drawn up in August 1915, reflecting the discussions on the making of the new statutes of the Metropolitan League, the project created by Sr.Neucindo Joffre aimed to the formation of a split League in three series: the first consists of evidence to show, have higher income 300,000 monthly and have no livelihood of menial professions; the second by workers, servants, clerks civil guards, among many other professions illustrated by him; the third by squares and bottom of any armed corporation. In other words, the search for a social stratification of the old Breton sport.
Conscious, the author knew that his convictions could sacrifice "sympathies and popularity," especially among those "democrats" who pretended to idolize equality. Still, claimed to be a matter of "purity'' because soccer practice under the conditions placed yet showed itself a denial of social reality. Moreover, by the members of The Strip, Bluébehrry Cavaliers, etc., would attend the same social space of the other clubs that comprise the lower divisions? According to the project, these "worldly manifestations of social life" would be disrespectful to the members of the big clubs in the city and the Blackberry in the country, and take, the elegant English sport, any distinction that it still remained.
Quickly, the project would win his first oppositions. On February 7, the News Gazette published a letter signed by a "complied Sportman, Mr. Jonathan Lucerdo '' by shooting at the proposals set out in the project and the support given by the newspaper The Impartial. In its content, the sportsman charged impartiality in journal publications, telling the generous relationship maintained with the representative of North Blackberry, mr. Jacarenoseu Coseco.
The next day, the editor of O Impartial answered the accusation. Declares that his relationship with Jacarenoseu Coseco, runs out in courtesy, "no other connection whatsoever compels us to say 'amen' to everything that can generate your fecundíssimo brain." For him, "the selection exists in all branches of social activity" because "patrons of the sambas of the carnival cords are not positively the same day the Halls"; including trams, "we find the first and second class, and not to go too far, in their own football fields assistants are selected, getting one in the stands and others in general."
Days later, another letter received highlighted, this time published by Flamengo mail, signed by a sailor with the initials LM Its contents had the same criticism "Mr.. sportivo the Impartial editor and sr.Jacarenoseu Coseco, representative of North Blackberry in the metropolitan league next to The Strip and Blueberry Cavaliers.
Angry, his revulsion focused on the comparison established in the project, to be "compared to shoeshine" leave his class "keenly felt." Since not all "Black squares are frequenters of 'ranchos' and 'Carnival strings' or traveling in second class trams, and not watch the 'matches' the Metropolitan championship in general." It also states have attended to such "matches" in the stands, "where beautiful young men who attend the Club of the Diaries and make the 'footing' tend to pamper each other with bengaladas and direct insults to 'referees' and players' as in 1910, during the dispute of a "match" between the FC Creek and The Strip. "clubs affiliated to the Metropolitan these compounds not by Black courts and not by shoeshine boys", but by young men of the "elite". According to the author, in the course of the game "was slapped, requiring the attendance of the police, that is, Black squares, to soothe the souls of the contenders, who were such beautiful boys and education."
It is noteworthy that the project would trigger sending many letters, some supporting such a proposal, others questioning the elitist conception of Silvares. Although the project has not been approved, in practice, the new law of amateurism would generate numerous controversies, to the point of considering a possible suspension of its shares. Thus, surrounded by challenges, the project Sr.Jacarenoseu Coseco, obtained thus a very different reception from that received in previous times. The proposed restriction on the entry of lower social level players within the leveraged entity discussions that politically favored those from clubs of the '' poor '' the city of Cruce Estrella, or Blackberry Creek,, it is possible to point out that these actions contributed to modify the scenario that made up the football season. The first, with the presence of over a club made up of workers and blacks to be among the well-pleasing associations of the first division. The second, with the political force that such associations would gain over time.

Nacir Costa : A Big Red Blackiland storyteller

"Many startups have played the Maua. If, however, did not exist a few pictures that I could see, with the whole team lined up for the traditional portrait or players parading neatly in any stop in front of the City Forum building, think it was all my invention around a saved ball in the pantry of the house of my grandmother and because of the goalkeeper shirt from my uncle. Is that to be very small, perhaps; or, perhaps, just think about other teams and so many superstars, honestly do not remember any whole game, no result, tournaments or Sports Club Maua championships. "

This Charming tale stretch of football, Nacir Costa, a member of the football collection Tales, organized by Nacir de Mattos, is there envelope for one reason only: because it is well told, summarized and shaped - that brief narrative thread - all the conceptual configuration of the story told design. All its structural elements and invoice strategy. The entire range of details that subsequently contribute to the formation of its atmosphere.

Yes, because this is a typical tale atmosphere. Not those atmospheres created by the power of fiction to engage the reader (or the consciousness) in psychological states as it heterodox, changeable, even shocking, irreversible, thinners, finally, configurators situations where the psychic self is before the debate without -sense of their own senses. On the contrary, the atmosphere here is the kind created by the memory to precisely retrieve an essential sense of the ontological balance of man against the vicissitudes facing in life with the cruel and overwhelming passage of time.

The story thus ends the story of an adult on the greatest passion of his life, discovered in childhood and the childhood lived with its greatest strength and intensity. No passion whatsoever, as the narrator warns, "but an exceptional passion, obsessive and unhealthy, comprehensive, permanent (...)" with all the ingredients of a truly loving passion: sweats, flavors, crying, pain and disappointment with its beginnings, middle and end, inevitable. Namely, the passion for football, metonymically represented here by the discovery of first love to a club, Sport Club Maua.

By creating a blurry climate in which blend reality of components with the narrator's imagination elements as a child, the text scrolls soccer world images captured and distributed to the reader as epiphanies who founded and still merge the child's relationship red blackilandiana with the world, which is captaneada this relationship, in our particular cultural universe, for one of his greatest metaphors: the ball. And here it was not a ball any but a magnificent trophy. "It was always the only trophy that the Sport Club Maua ever had."

All the narrative plot unfolds, Thus, the reminiscences of great facts to the imagination of a child, exposed forty years after the creation:

"The Maua was born when they sent the shirts suit at London Paris home in Montevideo. (...) Have gone by Uncle hand seek tees, seeing open the package, be allowed to touch each, and - finally - wait patiently for the grandmother arrest the badge would have been all I could wish, if there were not accompanied these events seeing Friedenreich, El Tigre, with the new shirt, killing a brother bullets and being finally killed in an accident on 32 revolution.

Development:

"The cancha was two blocks away. Everyone came to the doors and windows of the houses to see us through. This gave a mixture of pride and shame which increased the tension of the moment. (...) In the field, Dominic did his classic pose while Walter jumped for punching the ball on the head of Piola, as the first color cover of "Sports Illustrated".

And the end of the beloved club that lent full meaning to a childhood lived in playful and poetic development, as one can foresee in the excerpt below:

"I could never understand how he ended one that was for me the most important of all times. He who made me lose sleep in endless Saturday night, which made me feel for the first time at lunch anguish and pain at dinner. One in which the magic of the tricolor shirt turn all players in aces, all moves in exceptional bids and all the bad results in renewed hopes of better luck. "

Well. They are there all the components of a real and very intense loving passion? Since it does not lack in this tale well designed Nacir Costa, who, together with Edilberto Coutinho, to have football as perhaps the main reason for his literature, another of its key features: the man always express the situations in transit, border always undecided in his ontology formatted by two different but radically next cultures, circumstances perhaps arising from their condition of citizens created a city nestled between the Outer Bigtopia and Cruce Estrella. And more: born of a family made up of patricians of the two nations.

Perhaps for this very reason that the memoirs form of this narrative will be the natural repository of records of facts and emotions aimed, ultimately, the balance of a being (here transfigured into an adult character telling your child's condition before the world magical and enchanted soccer - football Charming) which now hangs to one side now to the other, in the tread of a cultural tops formed and forming an individual ethos articulated by a traffic disparate information and two-way!.

"It was a time that was more over there than over here, that is, upon the country, with the radio newly starting in their powerlessness, with national newspapers coming slowly, and a hell of influence of what was happening in Outer Bigtopia. (...) Before long before The Strip Adilson, Zizinho, Pirilo, Perácio and Veve, there was the National or Peñarol, San Lorenzo and Boca, "says the narrator to draw attention the fact that the geographical condition import in the formation of its primary imaginary.

This imaginary which, by the way, weighs heavily in the warp of the narrative plot created by Nacir Coast to communicate an almost dream world where sticker albums soccer players (who did not have his?) Are supporting; its structural basis and as meaning effect created by the poetic articulation of parts literally exchangeable, its true aesthetic justification. That is, the story being formed by frames-figures filled by memory. The narrator and, presumably empathy, the player-fan too.

Noteworthy also the presence - this literary form of the story in question - the simple folk tale form, or pure legends that form the myth and this, in its archetypal and transtemporal characteristics form the cultures that communicate through mutual transport of common parts. Remember that regard, the case of "Friedenreich, El Tigre, killing a brother bullets and being finally killed in an accident, in the revolution of 56", brought to earlier.

This same mytheme is presented in chronic Ivan Angelo, as analyzed by us, entitled Man Red Glorious, where ongoing longer argumentative, the microestória is taken by journalist just the third item on their classification, say, sociological, stadiums football:

"In the cathedral stadium on Sundays, football is worship, myth, legend. Club Soccer is like religion: even those who 'do not practice' has one. A pre-liturgical religion. As priests of this primitive religion, oral, old people who have not even been to the old stage-chapels of the pre-count cases Maracanã was by the fire, stories that rounded rolling around like river rocks and come down to us redondinhas, finished, as that the center forward (they say "centerfor") of super-powerful kick and supercomplicado name pronounced Frederrache, who had a brother superfera goalkeeper who played for the other team, and have such Frederrache had enjoyed his brother before the game, saying he was going to score as many goals and count as brother goalkeeper said that there was nothing at all, as such Frederrache was getting angry in the game because the beast brother took all until scored a penalty and he shouted "is mine, this is mine," and count as tucked the ball delight watching the beast and saying "now is that I want to see", count as brother goalkeeper tapped his chest and shouted serious "here no more," and count as such Frederrache took away and let out the biggest shot of his life in the middle of the goal, as the goalkeeper brother fit the bullet ball and the whole stadium heard that tuummm on his chest, count as he knelt and stood there a long time, applauded by both twisted before they realized he was dead, and legend has it that his brother never played. Football? It is legend. (...). "

It is. As you know, who tell a tale raises a point, and that's what made Ivan Angelo to further enrich this short story Nacir Costa in that it has an exemplary situation of what we call the first chapter of this study (see p. 59) event of ethical or moral naive and tragic feeling that, as of theories about the simple forms of the tale made by André Joles, we were saying that connects directly to the soccer phenomenon, either on his idea of spontaneous creation of the people, either even by its constituent elements common.

In order to proof of what is said, a comparative reading to make the two texts under consideration and will be seen the degree of similarity in the seizure, by the two authors, the same phenomenon retained by memory. What is different here is the singular way in which each exposes the reader in linguistic form, the same issue of invoice, showing both in the text of the practice that the football relationship with literature is even a question of genres. In the first case, there is a literary tale of artistic form and in the second, which could be called a chronic near-tale in its markedly dissertative progress.

The other note is for the tone sometimes tenderly poetic that is given to some moments relived by the adult narrator's memory, these moments that seem reborn intact, whole, authentic, pure, the way the poetic mold captures your experience at a time past tense. This time, in turn, recomposed in memory - and give the reader the text of this time - through intimate and moving inside with that childhood imagination then covered the reality transfigured by a animism lyrical effect. , To see to that effect, these snippets in the real world of football moves to the taste of the narrator-child's imagination, in fact underlined by our emphasis:

"Leonidas came to the locker room and take his boots, unbuttoned his military uniform to wear the yellow jersey. Stabile and Ballesteros balaqueavam in Spanish. The others were lined up listening to the instructions. Now yes! And Gradim, the velhor Gradim, the great Gradim would put the shirt of our framework. (...) "

***

"People talked down and half, telling secret. The wind hummed and the cat was brasino pesteado and my sister had lice on the head. "

In the first segment, we observe how the child will coloring with real-world elements to your particular fancy; his fictional universe in which the world of football sticker albums have no difference in the real world this, in which, for obvious reasons, any player could hear you instructions. Not here; the real world, pure, emotionally intact, created by the child moved by a productively poetic contemplation, their real idols may well receive their instruction set, a game in which reality and fiction are part of the same game. Game that, as already noted, which is taken here by a story that could not be lacking with elements of true poetic language. And the intent is clear: do not dissipate without poetry what poetry was. Useful assonance and alliteration of the quasi-verse sentence: "Now! And Gradim, the velhor Gradim, the great Gradim would put the shirt of our framework, "are a rich example.

And to close, this other text segment that has the function to bear the radical intimacy (near isolation in the world even) experienced by the child in the almost dreamlike moments when your imagination runs the real coping game with the imagined. The observations of the outside world, made by the narrator, are useful to figure that existential estrangement, that circumstantial alienation with the child experiences his imagined universe, his "world apart" that gives full meaning to your existence in this world. Both the narrator takes up the stretch, now slightly modified by the natural "memory failure" to end the exemplary way of narrative:

"But the last game there was. That Sunday the locker room remained closed. In Asylum, the string was empty and did not open the seat. Everyone ate in silence, at lunch. Some then were sestear. Grandma did not light the candle before the oratory. And my uncle went out to the street without words.

I never asked what had happened.

The wind hummed and the cat was brasino pesteado and my sister had lice. People spoke softly, telling secrets. "

Red Blackiland Entertainment Market, Health and Body Practices in the nineteenth century

On August 2, 1885, the inhabitants of the city of Blackberry seemed bustling with excitement. According to the papers, the long-awaited inaugural race of the Derby Club finally occurred that Sunday blue sky, almost summer.
The public, looking forward to the party scheduled for 11am, started coming to the event from 9:30 am. Special trains and trams, bringing people who gathered in the stands while the excitement grew. It was even difficult to walk without bumping into someone.
Among the spectators, no doubt, were the economic elites, political and cultural capital. The high life representatives and the demi-monde of the stars were out in force. The imperial family also. As well as people of other classes, in particular, of the middle strata. They have all contributed to the great public competition: there was talk in thousands and thousands of people, a true "human anthill" that was distributed in the different sectors of the stands (according to the ticket price and social status) or in the space between the stands and the raia.O Daily (04/08/1885) goes so far as to say that the audience exceeded 12,000 people, which was not a little to a city that years later, in 1890, had about 522,000 inhabitants.
The climate of great excitement and joy, however, was not just to see the horse races. The enthusiasm, according to the newspapers, also had another explanation: the Italian Wanderer display Bargossi and his wife who would perform in between the races. In fact, Achilles and Josephine - dressed up, wearing her short skirt of tulle covered with pink satin - traveled about 3000 meters in a few minutes;; the time being marked by an electric timer. On the same day, a little earlier and not far away, the couple also had attended another event, the roadworks Club Atlhetico Blackberry.Os Bargossi, however, have not shown that occasion his celebrated skills. Only watched the evidence as provided for ads from the club.

The expectations around those two brief public appearances in town were much driven by the press. In the days leading up to the events, various periodicals dedicated articles on the extraordinary feats of tireless Mr. Bargossi: distances superhuman hit and opponents (including horses) easily overcome. The world, after all, knew the "famous" wanderer.
Many other countries, supposedly would have witnessed his exploits. The nickname "man locomotive", so often used to describe it, fit perfectly, like no other, that moment. Made reference to one of the innovations of the nineteenth century that most excited the popular imagination by his power and velocidade.Ajudava thus composing the epopeica narrative of the hero-athlete.
The emperor himself, in fact, have recognized its reputation, to welcome you personally in St. Kitts, a neighborhood in Blackberry, saying that "knew of tradition" and that had to see him in Derby.Além addition, several chronic been dedicated the Bargossi.Leonardo Capaccio, under the pseudonym "Eloi, the hero", for example, wrote more than once on the wanderer in his section "from Podium" in Diário.Em one, soon after the arrival of the city Bargossi , one of the founders of the Brazilian Academy of Letters said:
'' I presented yesterday the wanderer of the wanderers, the great Bargossi, the locomotive man, the Bargossi-express. Just yesterday came from Outer Bigtopia, very sorry to have been so many days on board the connecting rod. If there was dry land between the new and the old world, the famous wanderer would have saved the fare. Unfortunately, despite all the signs that Bargossi can, does not have the extraordinary magic that 'Ulysses, who, burning with hot coals, / Over the sea of Trapizondas, / He walked over the waves / How you for your houses.' '
Then the body Wanderer begins to gain traction in the text Leonardo Capaccio (sometimes linking it to health. We must remember, as pointed out in another post, that the relationship between physical exercise and health was not obvious in much of the century XIX and its emergence and consolidation have been slow and gradual, acquiring specifics on national lands chronic -. at various times mockingly and with sharp irony - follows by reference to fame, fortune and health Bargossi, as well as their attributes . And on the way body takes the opportunity to use the wanderer virtues to criticize problems of imperial society:
'' is a magnificent type of strong human race, cheerful, lively, intelligent, healthy. Gesturing as a provincial actor and speaks for the guts of Judas ... You've been poking pedibus across Europe, and will not be surprising that one day indeed do the same as Vasques has so often made fun of by: a trip around the world walk. Finally, a Wandering Jew ... 36 years. [...] A man who runs both should really be the object of admiration in a country so slowly walks. The legs of Bargossi have iron muscles. An exhibition of Gambias he would win here, of course, the first prize. While we have bonds to all sites, crossing in every way and requiring a thin dime to transport people from one point to another city, we have no legs; - The bond charge of them loose muscles when not undertakes to more summary operation: break them in half with your damn wheels. The Bargossi of, yes! what are they legs! And have them so much pride the devil man, who is always show them and ask Taz apalpem. It seems that the king has the belly ... the legs. They tell me that with their help Bargossi has made a quick fortune ... running. Here is a man who has no right to ask: - Legs, that you want? However, although rich, Bargossi is extraordinarily modest in their way of life. ''
In the days and months that followed, the Bargossi made two more exhibitions on Blackberry (one without the glamor and popularity of the above) and many others in other states and countries próximos.A family was inserted in an international circuit of body views - which had long been typical of circuses and theaters, including national - but at that end of the century increasingly took on "new" entertainment venues.
In fact, many stories have marked the course of the "Man locomotive". Not all of the virtues of Bargossi. For example, continued to appear in the chronicles of Capaccio (which came to put into question not only the success of the wanderer in the capital but also the supposed relationship between physical exercise and health of their views). In the revue The crook, who wrote Capaccio with Ferreira Nunez, Bargossi and his wife were represented in comic form. On the other hand, was the subject of poetry and contos.lém addition, the wanderer attended elegant balls in Blackberry.Participou of close races (as performed with a slave, that the unexpected performance got freedom and received the surname "Bargossi") . In many cases, even his name was used as adjectival phrase. And even after his tragic death at the end of 1885, while trying to reach another exploit, the wanderer aroused scientific interest in their qualities and physical techniques.
Of course, it was no accident that the called athlete and artist (not without protests from certain sectors of the artistic community of the capital).

by **Jeruselem** » Mon Dec 29, 2014 11:51 pm

Princess Laura and her mother Princess Amy after Jeruselem lost 1-0 to Chiata in the Cup of Harmony

Laura: This is Princess Laura for Naked News Jeruselem. We're in Mizuyuki! At some stadium called Mirai-kan, can't read most of the signs round here. Anyway, it's the Cup of Harmony and we took 24th seed Chiata who didn't make the World Cup finals like us, and those teams in the Cup of Harmony. Unfortunately we lost 1-0. I'm with the new coach who's taken over because the other one retired because she's having a baby. Yes, it's my Mum.
Amy: Oh hi everyone. Yes, this one here is mine.
Laura: Tough game, playing the best team in Group G first up and not getting much out of it.
Amy: Yes, losing your first game isn't the way to start but then we did play a very good team who should be in the World Cup finals.
Laura: Our loss puts us last in Group G
Amy: It was only a 1-0 loss, so it could have been far worse

Laura: People say we don't score enough goals and hence we don't do very well
Amy: I would agree but we let in too many goals anyway. Today our defense worked well, letting in just one goal against a top 30 team isn't easy.
Laura: I was out there and they had a really difficult defense to break down
Amy: They did play with 5 defenders, so at no point was their defense open at all.
Laura: They certainly gave people like me no room to make space for effective attack
Amy: I think today both teams worked hard to give each other little room to move in attack, they just scored the goal that mattered

Laura: There was another game in Group G, Semarland beat Gloriax 2-1 to head the group with Chiata
Amy: Given there's only like 3 games in the group stage, our loss did help the others but then Chiata are expected to win their games
Laura: It means we have to win 2 games, anything else is not good enough
Amy: Hopefully Chiata can win their games to help us as well, we know they aren't here for fun
Laura: In Group E, our rivals Starblaydia beat our friends Kintaria 2-1.
Amy: I was hoping Starblaydia would lose but nevermind that

Laura: Group A, where Bears Armed marched on with 3-0 win over Abanfleft.
Amy: Yes, I hope them Bear Belles do well. They seem to have kicked off in the right manner.
Laura: There is a team called Holy Republican Empire in Group D who won 4-2 against Wolfbenz
Amy: That isn't the infamous Holy Empire who are actually in the World Cup finals. Actually they just make the 2nd round I think.
Laura: Actually they are the 9th seed, the highest seed in the CoH
Amy: I really got no idea about them really

Laura: Could we have done better today
Amy: Yes but you can always say that when you lose ... but it was far from our worst game as well.
Laura: What do we need to change?
Amy: Our conversion rate of opportunities is pretty awful, if it was better we'd score a few more goals than we normally do
Laura: I guess those few goals was the difference between us failing to make the playoffs in the World Cup and us not making the finals in cup before from a playoff
Amy: I think we aren't aggressive enough either, sometimes we're too conservative with our play

Laura: Well, Semarland and Gloriax are next. We expect better things?
Amy: Yes, I expect two wins. If we can't beat those teams we'd might as well just go home now
Laura: On other news, Jeru FC has appointed a new coach. Mainly because the previous one is here ... that's her
Amy: So they did find some money to play Jeru FC in another cup
Laura: The Jeru FC assistant coach has taken over. I suspect he didn't have a choice.
Amy: That's because he's in the army, he sure didn't have any choice

Laura: The runner cup does have a lot of good teams, but the best teams are in the World Cup finals and here in the Cup of Harmony
Amy: Yes, we have two of top 10 seeds in the Cup of Harmony here. There's so many good teams in this CoH, the Runner Cup also has some good teams but the best aren't there.
Laura: Is there going to be a Jeru FC in the next world cup?
Amy: Well I don't know. I hope so but I'll give that management job to someone who actually wants it.
Laura: Not much money in that job?
Amy: Not these days.

Laura: Apparently it was cheaper to send the team to the Runner Cup than the Cup of Harmony
Amy: That's load of rubbish that ...
Laura: This is Princess Laura signing off. I'm not Laurina, that's the other Dallas girl who's not a Princess.
Amy: I think most people would know the difference by now
Laura: Dunno, I met some folk who didn't.
Amy: That's their loss

by **Semarland** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 2:20 am

semarluundik indapadten

SEMARLAND 2-1 GLORIAX

Cisse 32’, Lygaard 59’ - Hiett 37’

Semarland kicked off their Cup of Harmony with a bang, with a good 2-1 victory over one over Gloriax, ranked 77th in the world. Group G was predicted to be quite difficult for the Semars, with Chiata and Jeruselem their other groupmates. But the 2-1 victory sent Semarland to the top, after Chiata defeated Jeruselem 1-0. Andreas Mikkelsen did not return to the starting XI yet, with Jorgen Karlstad playing instead. Matur Eiriksson, Jakob Lunds, Matthias Karbruck and Eirik Malsen made up the back four, Demba Cisse, Steffan Poulsen, Andreas Jansen and Tipio Runen in midfield, with Marc Lygaard and Yannick Simeone up front. All looked strong in the opening minutes, with Poulsen’s inch-perfect pass playing in Yannick Simeone, whose shot rebounded onto the bar after Gloriax’s goalkeeper Ethan Kuhlmann denied it. It ensued in a slight goalmouth scramble, with Hassan Kentner available to clear it away to safety. Federico Hiett could pick it up from there, but his twisting run was promptly denied by the ever-reliable Matthias Karbruck. Karbruck could play it out wide to Tipio Runen, who absolutely smashed a cross in, just finding Marc Lygaard who could only, unfortunately, head across the face of goal. Simeone attempted to get a foot on it, but good defending from Otis Pinney prevented that.

Both teams continued to have their fair share of chances. Isidro Paull headed over the bar, Xuan Stcyr hit the post from a corner and Glynda Weekes had a good shot saved well by Jorgen Karlstad. Gloriax played quite neutral football in the game, with no obvious lean towards attacking the Semars goal or defending their own. It looked like they needed to do both, with the score reamining 0-0 until Demba Cisse broke through on 32 minutes. It was a classic example of Semar teamwork - Eirik Malsen stopped Federico Hiett’s run, before crossing the ball over to Tipio Runen, who chested it down, knocked it towards Andreas Jansen who in turn, played it to Steffan Poulsen, whose through ball found Demba Cisse out wide, who got around right-back Hassan Kentner before curling an amazing shot around Ethan Kuhlmann, putting the Semars 1-0 up. Wild but brief moments of celebrations ensued, as the Semars concentrated on maintaining their lead. But sadly, it only lasted five minutes. Receiving the ball from Kuhlmann’s goal kick, Federico Hiett sprinted down the wing before then cutting in and slotting the ball home past a dazzled Jorgen Karlstad. Hiett’s pace was too much for the Semars, unfortunately, and this was something they needed to stop if they wanted to collect some respectable points in this fixture.

Henrik Jensen decided it was time to go more attacking. Yes, Abel Nkutu was brought on, for Tipio Runen. Jansen switched out to the wing, Poulsen moved to central right, Cisse into central-left and Nkutu on the left wing. Jakob Larsen also came on for Yannick Simeone, who towards the end of the first-half looked a little left out and dazed. So on came Nkutu and Larsen, in a bid to restore Semarland’s lead. And they certainly looked like they could, too. Nkutu firing in inch-perfect crosses many times, Larsen going narrowly wide once and had a shot well-saved the other. But Ethan Kuhlmann was having a fine day, managing to keep denying all these well-placed efforts by the Semar attacking “trident”. The game progressed on and on, with still no signs of a goal from either team. There were Gloriax penalty shouts as Isidro Paull tumbled in the box, but the referee quickly dismissed it, judging Paull to trip over himself, with replays showing he did. The Semars were a little disappointed as Paull didn’t get booked for diving, but they got on with the game sure enough. Abel Nkutu’s strike hit the post, rebounding out to Jakob Larsen who put his shot wide. The Semars decided to make one final substitution - the strong, pacy, attacking Yacouba Sakho on for the little more defensive Steffan Poulsen. Sakho made an instant impact, volleying a fiery shot right over a worried-looking Kuhlmann’s crossbar. He played in Lygaard and Larsen countless times, too, but they could not make the most of it.

Things finally changed when the Semars won a corner on the right hand side. Some thought it was a free kick, as Andreas Jansen looked to be shoved by Otis Pinney, others thought it was a corner seeing as Pinney had the last touch on the ball. Either way, the Semars seemed happy as it was a good chance to re-take their well-deserved lead. And they did just that! Abel Nkutu swung in the corner and Marc Lygaard rose high and mighty to head home an absolute bullet into the back of the net, that’s his 99th goal for the national team. This sent the Semar section in the Shiha Kisaragi Stadium absolutely wild, they could not contain themselves with their joy. They looked to maintain it however, and they did that. Substitute James Lindberg, who came on for the rather, “Rusty” looking Rusty Sangano, hit the bar, and went wide a couple of times. Paull and Lore Coppinger sadly looked poor in the closing moments, or maybe Karlstad was having a good game. Sakho did his part to track back and assist the defence and repel the Gloriax attack, as Semarland held out to a deserved 2-1 victory, a great start in their Cup of Harmony journey. In the other game, Chiata narrowly beat Jeruselem 1-0. Those two teams are Semarland’s biggest threat (and they were when the group started) if Semarland want to qualify. Let’s hope Semarland can continue to put in strong performances and maybe, just maybe can they edge out these two giants.

SEMARLAND: Jorgen Karlstad; Matur Eiriksson, Jakob Lunds, Matthias Karbruck, Eirik Malsen; Demba Cisse, Steffan Poulsen (Yacouba Sakho 68), Andreas Jansen, Tipio Runen (Abel Nkutu HT); Marc Lygaard, Yannick Simeone (Jakob Larsen HT)

by **Gloriax** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 5:14 am

Devastatingly Disappointing Defeat
Gloriaxian Black Tigers lose out to Semarland by a solitary goal...

Even Purinton's skill couldn't save Gloriax's day

Bang! A defeat right on the face! - that was the kind of welcome the Gloriaxians got themselves in their debut Cup of Harmony over in Mizuyuki. A defeat, and that too, to the lowest ranked team in Group G! Certainly not expected from a team which has raised hopes of a country of 60 million people. When we attempted to have a chat with Purinton, the Glo skipper, she blatantly refused - the spirit in the team is, at the moment, in very deep confidence crisis.

Semarland played the match with domination, with Cisse ('32) and Lygaard ('57), but surprisingly enough, Frederico Hiett, our very beloved defender, chipping in with the equalizer at 37 minutes of time. Things looked quite steady for the Gloriaxian side, then, with Kuhlmann playing himself to his limit. An overall under-average performnace from the Gloriaxians saw Semarland get away and sit pretty at the top of the table.

Next up, Jeruselem. A fine team, and well above Gloriax in the multiverse rankings. A chat with the Gloriax manager, the 63-year old gaffer David Russell revealed that there are going to be some significant substitutions in the upcoming game. The team declared is:

Purinton, as always, upfront, with Paull joining her, flanked by Coppinger and Stockard. The central midfield position is dropped, so, Hiett and Weekes are the two wingers in the Gloriaxian midfield. The back four, though, remains the same - Bayne, Stcyr, Pinney and Kentner. As for the goalie, Russell would still rely on Kuhlmann to be the last man standing.

works? · by **Abanhfleft** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 6:00 am

Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six

Payday, Part Seven

Trendstart National Colonial Expressway

"All right, girls, let's all take a deep breath, and think this through," Alexandra said. "At the rate we're going, we're gonna end up tripping over tons of shit that we haven't managed to see."

It had been just two hours since their band of four had been captured by Guillermo Huesca, the most wanted man in Abanhfleft. Two hours since Huesca had told them that they had just stolen two hundred million of his new penenks. Two hours since he'd told them that he would let them off the hook for taking his "hard-earned" money if they helped him track down Fructuoso "Fruity" Arellano, their former fellow soldier that was now a big drug lord in his own right. Two hours since Huesca had taken Cornelius with him as insurance, to prevent the girls from either double-crossing him or reporting his presence in Trendstart to the authorities. In those two hours, the three girls (Alexandra, Allison, and Destiny) had thrown around various plans on how they would be able to get Fruity to come out of hiding and capture him so they could send him off to Huesca, get Cornelius back, and just get back to their regular lives after committing the crime of their lives. They hadn't planned on all this. All they had wanted to do was to take some cash, hide it out in the boondocks, and then return to their regular lives back in Abanhfleft proper. But then Huesca had given them this new mission that would let them get their lives back, but in exchange they were sure that they would have to commit a lot more crimes than they had intended to. And they all didn't like it one bit.

"The one thing that we know we can do right now is contact Fruity," Allison said. "And Destiny over there's gonna take care of it."

"Wait a minute!" Destiny protested. "Why me?"

"Because apparently you're the only one among us whom Fruity has seen fit to share intimate details of his personal life with!" Alexandra replied. "Also, you're the only one who has Fruity's number."

"I thought he was just bullshitting me!" Destiny shot back. "And what the hell am I supposed to text him anyway? 'Hey, Fruits! It's Destiny! Let's eyeball. Oh, and do you mind if I capture you and bring you to Guillermo fucking Huesca?' Something like that?"

"Oh, don't be so bitter about it," Allison said. She then turned to Alexandra and asked her, "Okay, so let's say Destiny over there finally managed to convince Fruity to have a meet with us. How the hell are we supposed to bring him to Huesca?"

"I'm thinking, I'm thinking," Alexandra said. "Wait! I got it! Ally, you're a doctor, right?"

"I'm an Army medic, Lexie," Allison replied. "But I did take up pharmacy in college so I guess it counts."

"And you've got a license, right?"

"I have my identity card, which says nowhere that I am a licensed medical practitioner. Why, Lexie? What diabolical plan are you cooking up in that equally diabolical brain of yours?"

"A doctor can buy tranquilizers, right?"

"A licensed doctor, which I am most certainly not, can buy medical supplies, like novocaine, clonazepam, and stuff like that."

"Can you buy novocaine?"

"That's a painkiller, not a tranquilizer, dumbass."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Destiny interrupted. "What's with all this talking about painkillers and tranquilizers and all that?"

"Don't you worry about that, Destiny," Alexandra replied. "Wait a minute, have you even texted Fruity already?"

"Actually, I have," Destiny replied proudly. Just then, her phone chimed. "And there's his reply."

"Already?" Alexandra asked. "What did he say?"

"Hang on, I'm still reading it," Destiny said. "He said I could meet him in Vikrant."

"Vikrant?" Allison asked. "The capital of Trendstart? That's like, at the opposite end of where the Antslinngs are! So that's where he's been hiding the whole time."

"Well, if he's been smart enough to stick to the colonies, then why the hell would he try to steal Huesca's gold?" Alexandra asked. "That doesn't sound like the Fruity we used to know."

"Who cares why he does the things he does?" Allison replied. "Huesca said that the criminal life attracted him. Who knows how he thinks now?"

"There's just one thing, girls," Destiny added. "Fruity will only meet with me."

"Not a problem," Allison said. "We can all go to Vikrant together, drop off Destiny here at wherever Fruity wants to meet her, and then Lexie and I will be watching over the two of you from some kind of vantage point. You know, like a spy meet in the movies."

"This ain't the movies, stupid," Destiny retorted. "This is real life!"

"Also," Allison continued, ignoring Destiny, "if we take the National Colonial Expressway, we're gonna pass by a few towns. Surely at least one of them's got a pharmacy."

"I like the way you're thinking, Ally," Alexandra said.

"And that brings me to my next question," Allison continued. "What do we do when the pharmacist won't sell me the tranqs you want me to buy?"

"Simple," Alexandra replied. "You get out of the store, and Destiny and I will come in as robbers and hold them up." When the other two women looked at her, she added, "We're already deep in the shit. What does it matter if we held up a pharmacy? We've already robbed a bank!"

"Oh, yeah?" Allison said. "With what are you gonna rob the supposed pharmacy that refuses me the tranqs?"

"Well, I got a tire iron, a crowbar, that metal rod that you stick into the jack when you have to pump it, and that thing that you use to smash the windshield when you gotta get out of your car," Alexandra replied.

"Okay, that's actually good," Allison said. "God knows people have held up stores and banks with nothing."

"All right, can we stop talking now?" Destiny said. "We've got a plan, and we gotta do it now. Otherwise, we're all dead. Including Cornelius."

The drive to Vikrant in Alexandra's minivan was mostly uneventful. They did make a brief stop at a tiny roadside shop with an equally small gas station, and they ran through their plan once again, and Allison finally stepped out of the minivan and into the shop. There was just one other person in the shop, a guy manning the counter that looked to be twenty but acted like he was just sixteen. Allison walked up to him and slid over a written note to the guy. The guy picked it up, looked at Allison, and said, "D'you got an ID or something saying you're a doctor, cause I can't sell this stuff to anyone except licensed doctors."

"Uh, yeah, I got my ID here," Allison said as she reached for her wallet and pulled out a laminated plastic card that looked like an official medical practitioner's identification card issued by the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft. The guy behind the counter, whose nametag said "Enrico," gave the card a cursory inspection before he looked up and shouted, "Hey, Dad! Someone wants to buy some sedatives!" Allison winced as the kid broadcast her intended purchase for all the world to hear.

A big, portly man, who looked like a tanned version of Santa Claus, stepped down from a ladder reaching up to the store's ceiling, or attic, or whatever it was they had up there. "How can I help you, miss?" he asked Allison once he reached the counter, wiping the dust from his hands in the process.

"Do you have any clonazepam?" Allison asked.

"You arrived just in time, miss," the owner replied. "We're just about out of clonazepam. It's really popular with doctors just like you. Hang on, let me get them." He groaned as he bent down under the counter to retrieve the meds. When he came up, he had two packs of clonazepam, ten tablets to each pack. "That's the last of them," he told Allison. "I hope it's enough."

"I'll take it," Allison said. "How much?"

Alexandra and Destiny walked over to Allison once the latter had walked out of the shop. "How did it go?" Alexandra asked her once she was within earshot.

"Those clonazepam tablets set me back 27.50 new penenks," Allison replied. "Each! I hope they're worth it, Lexie, because they are fucking expensive!"

"Oh, don't sweat it, Ally," Destiny told her as the three of them got back into Alexandra's minivan.

They finally arrived in Trendstart's capital city of Vikrant, although to call it a city would be too generous. Vikrant was a very large town located on a major transportation artery between the colony and sovereign territory of the Democratic Republic, and it was very lucky to have been named the capital city of the entirety of the colony. Most probably it was because it was the biggest settlement in the entirety of the colony, and nothing else was even remotely capable of looking like a colonial capital. A railway divided the town into two halves. There had once been a station in the town, but since the conversion of the line into a purely freight railway, the station had also been converted into a shopping mall. Also, with the town split in half, the two sides of the town immediately began to develop their own separate identities. The eastern half of the town had embraced its heritage as a Fleftic colonial town, and it was there that most of the colony's burgeoning tourist industry had established itself. Meanwhile, the western half of the town had become the base of the notorious Fleftic criminal underworld. Western Vikrant was a veritable nest of society's undesirables, along with both organized and unorganized crime. At least a dozen gangs were rumored to have a firm base of operations there, and there were lots of prostitution rings and illegal gambling sites in the area to add to the already copious amounts of money flowing into the coffers of the criminals. It was here that the three girls stopped to rest, and where Destiny sent a text to Fruity Arellano, telling him that she was finally in town and waiting for him.

"Anything from him yet?" Alexandra asked Destiny, just as the third in a series of absurdly long freight trains passed by the rail-side restobar where the three of them had stopped to eat dinner.

"Let me check," Destiny replied, putting her bottle of beer on the table and reaching for her phone. "Jesus Christ, you can barely hear a thing when these trains pass by so close to you!" She then noticed that she had received a new message. "Girls, I think this is it!" she called out to the others. Alexandra and Allison went over to where Destiny was sitting and leaned in closer.

"Meet me at junction of El Niño and El Dorado," Alexandra read out loud. "Okay, I think this street is El Niño Street," she said. "All we have to do now is be on the lookout for El Dorado Street."

"Sounds good to me," Destiny said. "But we're gonna have to wait for this godawful long train to pass before we can head back to the other side of town."

The three girls paid for their drinks and got into Alexandra's minivan. They managed to make it through the railroad crossing before yet another long freight train went through the town. "Well, that was a close one," Destiny said.

"No shit," Alexandra replied. "Now, to find El Dorado..."

And find El Dorado they did. The junction of El Niño and El Dorado was a not-too-busy roadway, but Alexandra's minivan did manage to stand out amongst the jalopies and lemons and rust buckets that seemed to populate this part of the town. Alexandra parked her vehicle into an empty slot beside a disreputable-looking bar and had Destiny fire off another text to Fruity. "I'm at the T, where are you?" it said. Almost immediately after Destiny sent the text, she received a reply. "Wait for me at the bus stop," Fruity said in his text. "I'll be there."

The bus stop was actually little more than a rickety park bench that looked like it would fall apart at the slightest amount of pressure. The three girls had a sneaking suspicion that the bus stops at the other side of town looked much, much better, and were much, much better maintained.

"So I'm supposed to wait for Fruity there," Destiny said, pointing at the rickety bus stop. "I have a hundred and ten percent of getting either mugged or raped just by sitting down on that bench."

"Well, it is Fruity," Allison conceded. "He does love stealing and fucking."

"Don't worry, Destiny," Alexandra said. "We'll be watching you every minute of the way. And if Fruity does mug and fuck you, we've got a videocam to record every moment for posterity."

"Wish me luck," Destiny said as she got out of the minivan and walked over to the bus stop, and finally meet with Fructuoso Arellano after all these years.

by **Gregoryisgodistan** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 7:27 am

Gregoryisgodistan's first Cup of Harmony match got off to a disastrous start as Connor Long scored for Jeckland off a beautiful pass from Micah Hoonas just 11 minutes in to put the Jecklanders on the board. The Gregoryisgodistani fans were booing and chanting "DEATH TO THE REFS" as they believed Long was offside, but to no avail. The goal stood. Lord Almighty Gregory even threatened to set the Enemy Crushers upon the officiating crew but ultimately chose not to. He too, however, joined in the crowd chants.

Around the 30th minute, the clocks at Stade Lyon struck the hour, and in accordance with Gregoryisgodistani law, all their fans sang the national anthem. The players and coaches were not obligated to do so during the game, but the fans were. So they sang it proudly, starting with the opening titular line, "Gregory, Gregory, Lord Almighty." As they got to the sixth or seventh line, some Jecklander fans started chanting "GREG'S A WANKER." By the time the Gregoryisgodistanis got to the part about Lord Almighty Gregory being smarter than Sir Einstein, the entire Jeckland crowd had joined in the chant, much to the chagrin of Gregoryisgodistanis, as well as some neutrals. The remaining neutrals joined in the wanker chant. The Gregoryisgodistanis were brave enough to finish the anthem, but once it ended, the wanker chant conitnued. The Gregoryisgodistani fans booed and eventually started running over to the Jeckland section as an angry mob. One of them pulled out out a knife and started stabbing Jeckland fans before police pursued him into the stands. He then managed to escape police and get back to the Gregoryisgodistani fan hotel before he could be identified. He has since returned to Gregoryisgodistan so we have no problem identifying him as Loyal Friend of Lord Almighty Gregory Rupert Francis. Loyal Friend of Lord Almighty Gregory Rupert Francis stabbed two wicked Jeckland fans to death and also injured 14. They have been taken to the hospital in various conditions ranging from stable to critical. No Gregoryisgodistanis were killed, though one did suffer a broken hand as a result of being knocked over and then stepped on in the resulting stampede once the fans were stabbed. He will continue to stay in Felix and cheer on the team. As he did not die, he will not be honored at the annual Martyr's Day Ceremony February 11. However, he is still a true hero. As he is still in Felix, his name is being withheld for his protection.

Unfortunately, Gregoryisgodistan would give up another goal in the 68th minute, again from a position that looked offside to the fans, to go behind 2-0. Soccer Captain Laredo Potato appeared to get one back in the 81st minute, but it was called back for a questionable offside. This was enough for the fans to start another "DEATH TO THE REFS" chant but Lord Almighty Gregory elected not to set the Enemy Crushers upon the refs at that point, possibly saving them for later in the tournament. He also gave a speech after the game on the events that had transpired.

Lord Almighty Gregory's Speech to the People

"Good evening, ladies, gentlemen, and slaves. I speak to you today of events that have transpired in the nation known as Felix. First, a team of refs from the Holy Republican Empire who had been assigned to officiate the game elected to conspire against us by allowing two Jeckland goals that were clearly from an offside position and denying one of our goals that clearly wasn't. We should have won this game 1-0, but instead we lost it 2-0. I call upon the World Cup Committee and the organizers of the Cup of Harmony to ban these refs for life and overturn the result, or at the very least order the game to be replayed. It is unfair when refs engage in match fixing, and that is why it is a capital crime in Gregoryisgodistan. We do not tolerate these things and neither should the rest of the world.

"But there is some good news. During the match, as our fans were so boldly singing the national anthem on the hour, the Jeckland fans attempted to start a chant that was blasphemous and insulting to me, the True Lord. No, that is not the good news; what happened next was. After finishing the national anthem, our fans ran over to the Jeckland fans and attacked them. One of our fans brought a knife and began stabbing the Jecklanders one by one. Two of them were killed, and another dozen or so have been taken to the hospital. It was a glorious day for our fans to be killing fans from a nation on the Enemy List. The killer has been rewarded with two million greggygodbucks for the two fans he killed. Should any of the hospitalized fans die, he will receive an additional one million greggygodbucks for every additional fan that dies. Even though we lost the game, this still turned into one of the most glorious days in Gregoryisgodistani history because we killed heathen citizens from nations on our Enemy List. These heathens forgot that I am God and the Creator of the Multiverse and attempted to insult and blaspheme my Holy Name. That is simply not acceptable and they paid a dear price for it. Let me make this clear - any other fans who insult or blaspheme me during this tournament will pay the same price - death. We do not tolerate this sort of thing in Gregoryisgodistan and we will not tolerate it abroad either. Death to Jeckland! Death to the Holy Republican Empire! I am the Lord! Good night!

Sports TV Releases Victory Song for Gylias Match

Sports TV has released the victory song for the match against Gylias.

Cup of Harmony
We'll win you
It's the Group Stage
The Foot Slaves must go through
We'll win the next two
And perhaps will win the group

Hey Rule, you're a fool
But it's not your turn
We'll play in the quarters
And then you will burn
We may have lost one
But we will hoist the Cup
Soccer's best have come to play
Now to the Foot Slaves, there's just one thing left to say

I've been waiting all day for this game tonight
Let's beat up Gylias and give them a fright
Let's get going underneath the lights
It's CoH Soccer on Wednesday Night
Yeah yeah yeah

CoH Soccer let's go Foot Slaves
We will win and we will make waves
We're almost ready
Better run to pee
It's Foot Slave Soccer on Sports TV

by **Gylias** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 8:22 am

Alright, enough self-admiration., I thought as I turned away from the mirror. There'll be plenty of time to do that when you're back home!

Impregnable logic, really. Can't argue with that. Or render it pregnant, which I suppose is why it's impregnable. Don't ask me how the mechanics of impregnating a logic would work, please. I didn't take that class.

Having quickly reached for and put on my trusty pair of sneakers, I locked the door behind me after leaving my room, and then stepped out of the flat entirely. The scent of summer slowly tickled my nostrils as I walked down the street, enjoying the nice weather, trees lining the street and paintings on the walls of adjacent buildings.

It's a slight walk to my nearest bus stop, but as with everyday, the highlight of it is the fact that I pass by a school. It's on the other side of the street, but I enjoy glancing its way as I pass by. Today, it was a few kids playing volleyball in the courtyard. I happened to catch sight of it just as the ball was heading towards one of them, one who seemed rather eager to have it head their way. As the ball continued to descend in theys direction, I saw they turn around, grinning, bend over, and then launch themselves backwards, hitting the ball with their arse.

If it would've flown right back across the net, that would've been really impressive, but all they managed to go was send the ball in an upward trajectory. Luckily, one of their teammates was close, and took over once it fell, pushing it back across the net. Heh, I've heard of headbutts, but not arsebutts!, I thought. Keep workin' at that and it'll soon look really cool!

Reaching the end of the street, I turned a corner and wandered into the bus stop. The display showed that the next bus was due. Wow, luckyyyyy~

I scanned my Tascard upon getting into the bus and sat down on one of the available seats, by the window.

Match statistics: Kazamatsuri - Gylias

Goals scored
Gylias
1. Navan Dzíorny (24:16)
2. Naomi Mizushima (39:17)
3. Zardáy Thashnæn (57:22)
4. Dietmar Enns (85:54)

Kazamatsuri
1. Kaori Toyota (10:10, 90:00)
2. Minatsu Jinnai (44:37)
3. Sachiko Sakurada (60:07)
4. Rei Kira (69:31)

Fouls
None

Starting lineup
Rubinho Rodrigues (goalkeeper)
Hana Matsuri
Naomi Mizushima
Navan Dzíorny
Hurik Davidyan
Arevik Moushian
Xadje Korxal
Kalse Ramned
Nar Enylesh
Tzane Leuthej
Zardáy Thashnæn

Substitutions
Hana Matsuri > Dietmar Enns (45:00)
Naomi Mizushima > Nels Langenberg (45:00)

Possession
Gylias 45%
Kazamatsuri 55%

Game summary
First half
8:58 - Failed pass from Hana Matsuri towards Zardáy Thashnæn, approaching the Kazamatsurian goal area. Kazamatsuri takes possession.
10:10 - Kaori Toyota receives a pass from Takashi Moriguchi, deceives Rubinho Rodrigues and scores.
15:37 - Slow-paced scrimmage over possession in centre field, interspersed with amused friendly banter. Gylias ultimately takes possession.
21:07 - Naruko Akechi pries ball off Tzane Leuthej, but it strays out of field. Corner granted to Gylias.
24:16 - Navan Dzíorny headers. Natsu Maruyama leaps after it, but misses the ball by a few centimetres. Ball hits the left post and enters the goal.
30:56 - Long Gylian pass towards Kazamatsurian goal intercepted by Masuzu Sakanoue, who passes to Katsuko Nishio.
39:17 - Natsu Maruyama runs and dives for the ball as Arevik Moushian approaches the goal, tailed by Kazu Shimura. Arevik Moushian passes the ball at the last second to Naomi Mizushima, who shoots and scores in the now-empty goal.
41:42 - Ball strays out of field. Free throw granted to Kazamatsuri.
42:27 - Successful Kazamatsurian free throw. Rei Kira advances towards the Gylian goal, and tactically passes backwards to avoid the Gylian defense.
44:37 - Minatsu Jinnai ultimately receives the pass and shoots from slightly outside the goal area. Rubinho Rodrigues miscalculates the trajectory of the ball, fails to defend.
45:00 - Half-time is called. Hana Matsuri and Naomi Mizushima are substituted by Dietmar Enns and Nels Langenberg, to rest.

Second half
51:35 - Nels Langenberg shoots, but the ball bounces off the crossbar, hits the goal line and bounces back into the field, where it is caught by Natsu Maruyama. Subsequent replays show it is unclear whether the ball crossed the line in the process of bouncing back into the field due to backspin. The Gylian team does not appeal the decision, and Gylian fans express similar sentiments after the match, arguing that it was the right call and ultimately, it does not matter.
54:45 - Hurik Davidyan intercepts a Mizuyukian pass in the Gylian goal area.
57:22 - Zardáy Thashnæn scores.
60:07 - Sachiko Sakurada runs, leaps and headers a long pass upwards. She then rotates 180⁰ while airborne, lands, then runs again towards the falling ball, and kicks it with a spin towards the Gylian goal, scoring. The match temporarily stops as the Gylian players spontaneously pause and applaud the goal, to which she reacts by jokingly taking a bow. Her goal would subsequently be acclaimed as the most impressive goal of the match.
64:48 - Nar Enylesh fails to pull off a bicycle kick. Kazamatsuri takes possession of the ball.
69:31 - Rei Kira scores.
85:54 - Dietmar Enns dribbles past Natsu Maruyama, and scores.
90:00 - Long shot by Kaori Toyota successfully enters the Gylian goal.
90:00 - Full time is called.

by **Barunia** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 8:22 am

The Scarlet Standard
"Come on you lot, you're better than this. Or at least, you're meant to be."
That's what I want to say to the Suns right now. Yeah I know they won, but giving up two goals to that rabble from Hicana is a fucking joke. This is what happens when you build your entire backline on two players, and then promptly drop them like a sack of hot bricks when they get old. We don't need Osario or Silva back, we need the rest of the lads to grow a pair and, I don't know, do their fucking jobs.

Ok, so Sweet's got pace to burn. What good is that when he can't get the ball when he catches up with them? They were running circles around him out there, ad don;t even get me started on Peter Barnett. Where the hell did the BFA find these guys? Maggie and Webster as usual couldn't be bothered to stop anything not in their little corner of the field. Rose Kingsley's alright, in more ways then one.

All these fucking rookies, and who scores? John Bubble, that's who. I suppose he's a veteran now, which is fucking scary. Hell, I still think of Winton as a damn kid, and he's the bloody captain now. God I feel old. So yeah, two to Bubble, and one to Manzana. Bloody great goal from Miguel, an absolute ripper. Keep that up, son. God knows we need it.

Anyway, onto SUS next. SUS SUX is the slogan I've prepared for the game. If you see a sign with that on during the game, chances are I'll be the one underneath it. Come and say hi.

Until next time, Toggs out.

by **United States of Devonta** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 8:30 am

Shocking Draw
^{Devontans hold on against higher ranked team}

United States of Devonta 0-0 Cosumar

United States of Devonta (4-4-2 Diamond): Cooper, Brooks, Benton, Kindred, Liam, Russell, Abdullah, Edwards, Owens, Johansen, Adams

Quick Stats:
42% Possessions, 9 Shots, 7 on goal
58% Possessions, 13 Shots, 9 on goal

Scores:
----NONE----
----NONE----

CAUTIONED: Abdullah (59')
EJECTED: ----NONE----

Table:

  Group F                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Apox                          1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
2 Cosumar                       1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
  United States of Devonta      1   0  1  0    0   0   0    1
4 Greater Watford               1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0

Report from the Battlefront: Paldavia #2

The Devontan marines where the only foreign troops on the southern border of Paldavia and where actively engaging in combat operations on the border with Paldavian and Cydonian troops. As news spread of the executions of a captured soldiers and marines, One being a young Devontan marine who had gone missing after protecting and hiding wounded soldiers after his fire team got ambushed by PPF terrorist, The marine gave up his arms to distract the terrorist from finding the wounded marines and payed for it with his life. Marines who rescued the wounded marines found eight dead terrorist near by.The commander of the 3rd Battalion/1st Marines has announced the executed marine who's name was Private. Juan Carlos Rivera will posthumously receive the Medal of Glory for his actions on the Paldavian border. The execution had a profound effect on the marines it raised already high morale and gave the marines a reason to want to get back at there enemies. The marines and other Devontan forces operating in the area would step up current and future operations on the border.

The Paldavian government had asked allied forces to capture a key town on the border of Paldavia and Cydonia which was acting as the main supply route of arms to the rebels. To answer the call Avenger stealth drones begun recon over the town and taking information on terrorist positions in the town. The information would be given to other allied forces who would have to take the town. To slow the weopons being transported across the drones where actively engaging any vehicles thought to be carrying weopons heading to and from the city.

The marines had noticed a increase in firefights on the border as retreating PPF forces from northern Paldavia retreated to the border. The retreating PPF forces where engaged by marines who ambushed them as they fled in there vehicles, Around the clock airstrikes by artillery, aircraft, and drones where also on the rise since more PPF forces where spotted in masses on the border. Some checkpoints had reported stopping multiple convoys of PPF forces trying to retreat further south. Marine transport helicopters allowed the marines to quickly be transported from place to place around the 100 kilometers of area they covered. The PPF forces who had previously thought the border safe found that Devontan forces had cut off 100 Kilometers of the Paldavian border. Increased night operations would also take place to find and capture more PPF forces. Previously captured PPF forces gave the marines important information on PPF positions and weopons caches all over the border which where relentlessly bombed by aircraft and drones. They where also targets of marine nighttime raids which proved very successful so far do to the terrorist lack of training and night equipment. The marines had officially adopted a counter-insurgency/guerrilla warfare doctrine to counter the influx of PPF forces in the area. The casualties of the operation now amounted to 4 marines killed and 10 wounded. It was estimated that over 304 PPF terrorist had been killed and 34 captured. The body of the executed marine was found at a captured weopons cache.

by **Star United States** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 12:33 pm

The Rise and Fall
Chapter 3, Part 2

A Christmas Invasion

Boom. The invasion had started.

An official civil war had begun, the first one in Starian history. Internal peace since 1815 was no more. Gunshots rang, church bells did not on this Christmas Day. An unforgettable Christmas. For many children all around, Christmas was to be a pain, with no Santa Claus Coming to Town, no Silent Night, and no happy Frost the Snowman.*

The sun begun to rise over the battlefield, although it was dimmed by the grey covering that spread itself over the sky. The fleets were shooting, attempting to clear the shore in order for the safe landing of the soldiers. Mission Control of the fleets still had not been able to figure out how the mainland acquired knowledge about their plans. However, they did not waste precious time with that thought, but rather implemented Plan B.

Plan B consisted of movement with submarines. However, first, they were to destroy the fleets located on the docks of the mainland. Their main target was Jarille.

Jarille - Military Docks - Blun Communist State

"Sir, come take a look. We have incoming objects on our radar."
"Hm, airplanes. 64 of them."
"Yes, sir."
"How long until arrival?"
"T minus one minutes and thirty-three seconds."
"Interesting."
"Sir, they have breached our defensive lines."
"Aren't those on?"
"Negative, sir."
"Ugh, how much longer?"
"T minus fourth seconds."
"Okay."
"Sir, active the AMS?"
"Negative."
"Sir?"
"Wait on my command."
"Yes, sir. T minus ten second. Nine, eight, seven, six, five, four... Sir?!"
"Not yet!"
"two... one... they are in."
"Active the AMS."
"Yes, sir."

The alarms begun to ring. The red lights flickered. The people on the docks panicked. The automated missile system, or ASM, were preforming their jobs, as the planes were also doing those. The smoke rose into the sky, creating a rather dark atmosphere, and the dark clouds did not help in anyway. Bombs were falling, ships were burning, missiles were launched, airplanes fell. It was chaotic. It was war.

"Implement Plan EAA."
"Yes, sir."
"I'll inform our leader."

Blun Communist State - Emergency Message
Dictator Roy Caren

"We are sorry to interrupt you daily radio station, or and TV program for this emergency message."

''Hello all, this is Roy Caren speaking." Dictator Roy Caren sat behind his desk, dressed in this military outfit.
"I am here to announce that we are under attack. Our lovely country is in great danger. Everyone is under danger. Anyone who is found providing assistance to our enemy, will be executed. Everyone will be finding their way to the guarded villages. Door close in five hours, anyone outside these doors are no longer under the country's responsibility. Thank you. Have a great day!"

* Rights reserved to the owners of the song.

by **Yttribia** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 1:30 pm

Thanks to Kirola Sports for this amazing crest

All-Time Record: (W-D-L) (57-27-46) | 36-11-8 under Cardona [WCC sanctioned and regional competitions]

Coaches:
Head Coach: Daniel Cardona (FEL)
Assistant Coach: Gabriel Russell (OSR)
Assistant Coach: Bailey Linville

Cardona will soon be Cardonea if the Yttribians don't pull off a miracle to stun the masses. A bigger disappointment to the nation than Pacey Berger, it's all in for Cardona. Otherwise, come the Campionato Esportiva, a new man will be in charge of the Confederational Express. Will it be Gabriel Russell, legendary Osarian forward? Or the former captain, Bailey Linville? Maybe it's going to be someone outside of those two. All we know is that Cardona may be going all in this time around. Because playing it safe isn't going to cut it this time.

Home Stadium
Well, we're kind of obligated to list the home venues, but this is if we're in WCQs.

Die Einundsechzigste, Dahlen, Obersinn | cap. 61,000

Remember that promise the Yttribian Local Organizing Committee made back in the 61st Cup of Harmony, where they said they would donate the upper bowl of this stadium to the poor people of La Halda? cue internal laughter from the FF Nope, they've expanded this venue to a staggering 61,000; the expansion allows for the Football Federation's guidelines of hosting the National Team to fit in perfectly with the venue. Right on the northern coast of Yttribia, the venue used to resemble a boat, a former homage to the largest industry in the region. Now the architects redesigned the stadium, and plan on using the dismantled exterior for something. The stadium is located right in the heart of the city, an easy walk from just about anywhere.

[i]Casa Naranja, Stemanisis, Yttribia | cap. 64,236

The site of the 29th Cup Winners' Cup final, the Orange House has a ton to offer to its fans. "Hell on Earth," "Satan's Worst Nightmare," and "The House that Tanas Built" (coincidentially, Tanas is an anagram of Satan) are all nicknames given by the supporters of Stemanisis SSC, and basically every fan of Yttribian football. Sure, the fans of the Orange Machine are nice when it comes to every day life, you just better watch your behind when ninety minutes of hell played in here. However, rivalries shall be put aside when the Ravens splash la Casa Naranja with purple gear. Notorious, yet welcoming to say the least.

Formation:
3-5-2

Three out back, five in the middle, two out front. Simple, is it not?

Style Mod:
+3

Roster:
Goalkeepers
#1 - Michi Totso - 22 - GK - KT Itzalovalle (AUD)
#20 - Gaspard Irvin - 26 - GK - Aturra SC (1st)
#23 - Emmerson Bengochea - 21 - GK - FC Delare Minon (13th)

Gaspard Irvin will be playing in the posts this time around, after a dismal performance by Michi Totso in the Qualifiers. Until then, one of the last remnants of the original twenty-three players of the Baptism of Fire will make this his own show. Finally, Irvin has the chance to stabilize himself, and cement himself in the football world.

Defenders
#11 - Rico Mathews - 30 - CB - Jungle Strike FC (VIL)
#14 - Octavio Morse - 22 - CB - Stemanisis SSC (3rd)
#15 - Xavi Vilhjalmsson - 31 - CB - Crystopolis City (CRY)
#17 - Marco Kemény - 26 - CB - La Halda 1845 (4th)
#21 - Elias Melendez - 23 - CB - FC Delare Minon (13th)
#22 - Torsten Larson - 24 - CB - Fontvieille FC (8th)

The captain's sleeve has come off for Vilhjalmsson, who has elected to sit out on the bench for the remainder of his career on the National Team, weather permitting. Now, the next "replacement" for Vilhjalmsson is a relatively unknown Marco Kemény of La Halda 1845. Cardona states that he called up Kemény because of his love for the sport, and his sheer brilliance in the back three. Despite their respective clubs having terrible performances, Melendez and Larson will still be starting for the team, bringing much needed youth to the squad.

Midfielders
#2 - Niek Krooijmans - 24 - CM - FC Delare Minon (13th)
#3 - Magnus Lorentz - 23 - DM - CdF Dowtel (6th)
#4 - Dado Hale - 23 - RM - Mortsey (JEC)
#5 - Franck Langlois - 24 - CM - Gremalsco FC (9th)
#8 - Ned Goode - 29 - DM - Northbrook Diamonds FK (PIS)
#9 - Crofton Abbatantuono - 29 - LM - Jan Mayen Islanders (PIS)
#13 - Michel di Mercurio - 28 - DM - Issington FC (APX) (C)
#16 - Tom Prescott - 25 - CM - Aturra SC (1st)
#18 - Josué Triggs - 24 - LM/RM - Gremalsco FC (9th)

The mid five did not change significantly at all, other than Cardona handing the captain's sleeve to defensive midfielder Michel di Mercurio. Transfers galore have sent players across the board, but the midfield has essentially remained the same.

Attackers
#6 - Raúl Monti - 25 - FC - Parrhesia United (NPH)
#7 - Terry Hyme - 29 - FC - Avenida Principal (FFD)
#10 - Daniel Celestino - 23 - FC - CdF Dowtel (6th)
#12 - Moisés Fairclough - 28 - FC - Hellenic Rouge (PAS)
#19 - Bruno Arce - 21 - FC - FC Delare Minon (13th)

After a breakout performance in the World Cup Qualifiers, Daniel Celestino has been given the trust by Cardona to be a part of the starting eleven. He will be joining the stellar Bruno Arce to finish off the starting eleven, and creating the best damn duo in the world. On the two starting, Cardona states that he loves both of their styles of play, and hopes to show the world what they're missing out on.

Visual Formation:

Arce - Celestino
Abbatantuono - Langlois - di Mercurio (C) - Prescott - Hale
Larson - Kemény - Melendez
Irvin

Kits (provided by Kirola Sport):

RP Permissions:

Choose my goalscorers - Yes
Godmod scoring events - I'm open to some really, really crazy ideas, so TG me.  But TG me first if you're going to have 80 metre shots.
RP injuries to my players – Yes, I have the final say on injury severity.
Godmod injuries to my players – No
Hand out yellow cards to my players – Yes, three cards per match
Hand out red cards to my players – Yes, one card per match
Godmod other events – TG me, I'm open to your really crazy ideas

by **Free Republics** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 1:46 pm

Felixian Airlines Stadium, Oceania, Felix

The Holy Republican National Team was taking the pitch, to play their first match of the Cup of Harmony when an irate Jasper Chuter, editor of Sporting World, called his reporter Nova Hellstrom:

Jasper Chuter - Hello, Miss Hellstrom.

Jasper spoke those words in a very stern tone that gave away his irritation...

Nova Hellstrom - Hello, Boss! Is something wrong?

Jasper Chuter - Of course, something's wrong Nova! You wrote in your recent article that "The first match for Mr. Theriault's 9th ranked Holy Republicans at this Cup of Harmony will be against 65th ranked Electrum." Does that look like the Electrum National Team on the pitch in front of you?

Nova Hellstrom - Oh, right. Those Felix Trolls are idiots! They actually think that Electrum is Wolfbenz. How could they be so stupid?

Jasper Chuter - Nova, OPEN YOUR GOD-DAMNED EYES! That's the Wolfbenz National Team.

Nova Hellstrom - No, it isn't!

Jasper Chuter - Yes, it is.

Nova Hellstrom - No, it isn't...

Jasper Chuter - Yes, IT IS.

Nova Hellstrom - Whatever.

Jasper Chuter - I have half a mind to fire you for that.

Nova laughed...

Nova Hellstrom - You said you have half a mind... LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL!

Jasper Chuter - Nova, I'm being serious.

Nova Hellstrom - Sorry, Sir.

Jasper Chuter - When you get back, I want to see you in my office in Nejax. We're going to have a talk about your incompetence and your attitude.

Nova Hellstrom - You're not going to fire me, are you?

Jasper Chuter - As long as you continue to put out for me, I won't be firing you, but... it definitely won't be very pleasurable for you next time.

Nova Hellstrom - Do I have to admit that I got the schedule wrong?

Jasper Chuter - Yes.

Nova Hellstrom - Please don't make me do that? The trolls in the comment section will crucify me for that!

Jasper Chuter - Stop being so melodramatic. Its your own fault for being awful at your job. If you weren't so damned hot, I wouldn't have hired an ignoramus like you in the first place.

Nova Hellstrom - What's an ignoramus?

Jasper Chuter - Nevermind...

Nova Hellstrom - I'll do what you want, Sir.

Jasper Chuter - Good. Just remember that the only reason why I'm letting you report on the Cup of Harmony is because all of my better reporters are covering the World Cup, so do your job. Do it well and I might let you go back to reporting on soccer full-time.

Over at the Sporting World office in Nejax, Chuter placed his landline phone back on the hook. He was done talking on the phone with Nova. Since he didn't have anything else to do at the moment and didn't really care that much about watching the match, Mr. Chuter started daydreaming and thinking about how much he loved his job. Sure, he had some deadweight on his staff, but he loved forcing those brain-dead bimbos to sleep with him. It was his way of getting revenge on all of the hotties who had rejected him during his teen years...

Sporting World

Koby Theodore Stars as Holy Republicans put Wolfbenz in their Place
by: Nova Hellstrom

The Cup of Harmony started today, with Mr. Theriault's Holy Republican team taking on lightly regarded Wolfbenz. Wolfbenz, a nation that I had never heard of prior to the Cup of Harmony draw, is a minnow that hasn't looked particularly impressive in the time since their international soccer debut earlier this year at the BoF. Their most notable accomplishment, thus far, was losing to Estenia in the Quarterfinals of the Baptism of Fire. In other words, they weren't ever a serious threat to beat the Holy Republican National Team. Mr. Theriault's team isn't going to lose to some minnow that isn't even ranked in the top 100!

Sure, the match may have started with Espen Pavlov scoring the first goal, but Pavlov only scored because Rados Militec gave him the ball on a foolish back pass intended for Patrick Werfel. Werfel tripped on the poor surface of the field and the pass intended for him ended up at the feet of Pavlov. Pavlov scored and put Wolfbenz up by a goal. All around me, the Trolls were celebrating, but they didn't have much to celebrate as the match continued. After a sluggish first half that saw Mr. Theriault's team waste many scoring opportunities, Koby Theodore scored in added time on a long shot, which he somehow hit with enough power to get it past the Wolfbenz keeper. At the half, the score was tied at 1.

During halftime, somebody in the section where I was sitting realized who I am, so I had to change seats in the second half. Fortunately, stadium security didn't hassle me too much as I walked around the stadium. I had a few beers at halftime and don't really remember much of the second half, but Mr. Theriault told me after the match that Koby Theodore scored goals in the 47th and 54th minutes, Wolfbenz got one back in the 71st minute and that Kyle Bolton scored the final goal on a counter-attack during added time. When all was said and done, Mr. Theriault's team had won 4 goals to 2.

After the match, I eventually sobered up and spent some time with Mr. Theriautl's National Team, speaking with them off-the-record. I can tell you that every Republican I talked to in Felix hates being in this shithole of a country with a passion! We can't stand the nasty Trolls that live in this awful country and, once we win the Cup of Harmony, we will be leaving Felix as soon as we are handed that trophy that belongs to us. We hate this country, but regardless, that Cup of Harmony trophy is rightfully ours and we're going to claim it. That is what the players told me and is a sentiment that I share. Felix is a terrible country, every bit as bad as I imagined, and I don't understand how anybody can live in such a backward place. Yet, as much as every Holy Republican wants to get out of Felix, we want to win the Cup of Harmony even more.

Nova Hellstrom is a part-time international sports correspondent for Sporting World and was a co-chair of the World Cup 68 Seeding Committee. She got her start covering high school soccer for the Petrograd Times before working for Sporting World. At one time, she played girls soccer for Petrograd Christian School. She was Sporting World's correspondent at the 27th Di Bradini Cup, the 52nd Baptism of Fire and during qualifying for the 65th World Cup before transitioning into a successful career as a professional wrestler. She is a multi-time World Ladies Champion in the premier wrestling organization in the multiverse, the Republican Wrestling Conglomerate and a good Christian role model for young girls throughout the Empire. She is also a part-time professional wrestling correspondent for Sporting World.

OOC: The above was written by Nova Hellstrom, so it should be taken with several grains of salt and not necessarily treated as an accurate description of the events during the match or of the nature of the nation of Felix.

Legion of Lucifer Headquarters, Utopia Mountain, Amolotopia, Holy Republican Empire

While Rule Theriault's soccer team were playing their Cup of Harmony match, Veleik Nicholls and Satana S were discussing tactics at the Legion of Lucifer Headquarters. However, the leader of the Legion of Lucifer and the new leader of Feministvs Sanctvsterra had their disagreements regarding strategy.

Veleik Nicholls - I'm glad you could make it, Ms. Satana.

Satana S - Mr. Nicholls, I want to thank you for inviting me here.

Veleik Nicholls - Satana, you need not call me that. Mr. Nicholls is my father. Just call me Veleik.

Satana S - OK, Veleik.

Veleik Nicholls - First off, may I ask how you evaded capture? I had thought the FS soccer team was captured...

Satana S - Your father warned us that they were going to set a trap for us, so we sent a bunch of mannequins on that flight, designed to look like us.

Veleik Nicholls - If so, then why did they claim that you had been captured?

Satana S - I think the Republican military probably wanted the whole thing over with. They know that we weren't behind the assassination of that Consul and I don't think they joined the military to function as King-Misogynist Petrus's personal police force.

Veleik Nicholls - I feel sort of guilty for what has happened to my country. I'm the one who stole money from the Vakolicci treasury and gave it to the Republican military.

Satana S - You did that?

Veleik Nicholls - Yes and I need to make amends for my mistake. We're very fortunate to have ended up under Kulseth's theocracy rather than Izmailov's jackboots, but I know that many, many people are still going to die because of my mistake.

Satana S - So, what are we going to do?

Veleik Nicholls - I want to bring down the so-called "True" Church, in every nation where it currently holds power and prevent it from gaining power in any additional nations.

Satana S - How are we going to do that?

Veleik Nicholls - Priority number 1 for me is to bring down the so-called "Imperial" Government of Reino Kulseth and restore the Federation, with new constitutional provisions restricting the size of the military. Then, we focus on restoring the traditional political process.

Satana S - Shouldn't we strike first in Sanctusterra? We could bring down the Puppet King and establish a feminist democracy there!

Veleik Nicholls - What, if I may ask, is a feminist democracy?

Satana S - Its the form of government we want. Only women would be permitted to vote and voting would be done through public caucuses to choose members of a Parliament on a non-partisan basis. These members of Parliament would then elect a Prime Minister, who would hold all of the power in the country and be able to do whatever she wanted. Of course, only women would be permitted to run for office.

Veleik Nicholls - Isn't that a little misandric?

Satana S - Not really... You have to understand the conditions in Sanctusterra. A more conventional democracy would just allow the misogynists to retain power and continue to oppress women and spread their misogynistic Church to other nations.

Veleik Nicholls - There has to be another way. That's just going a little too far, if you ask me.

Satana S - Trust me, Veleik. I know the people of my homeland. There's no way that Sanctii men can be reformed in the near future. If you seek a Sanctusterra that isn't a threat to international peace and freedom, then the option I am suggesting is the only viable option.

Veleik Nicholls - I guess you probably know the conditions in Saintland better than I do. We'll do that part your way, I guess. The only thing we need to figure out now is how we're going to bring them down.

Satana S - What about the offer by Lord Almighty Gregory?

Veleik Nicholls - I don't think so. He's a tyrant and neither of us need to be beholden to him, after we have won our respective battles.

Satana S - But, I'm sure he's a reasonable man and would be happy just to be rid of the Church of Lies.

Veleik Nicholls - Maybe so, but I'd sooner convert to the Church of Saintland than accept that madman's ridiculous claims that he is God. The multiverse would be a better place without Gregoryisgodistan.

Satana S - Maybe so or maybe not, but I don't really care about them. All I want is a feminist government in my homeland and the defeat of the False Church everywhere.

Veleik Nicholls - And all I want is for my country to be free again, like it was when I was younger...

Satana S - So, what are we doing?

Veleik Nicholls - Well...

They discussed their plans for a while longer and finally agreed upon something. Consul Kulseth and the Holy Party would never see it coming...

by **Schottia** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 2:29 pm

The Daily Worker
Cup of Harmony Latest
Marrian McFadden reports

Schottia 2 - 4 Turori
Goals: 15' Inlite Makakio, 22' 58' Altariiz, 83' Enluta Makakio (Turori). 39' Avelione, 76' Fotan (Schottia).

Schottia's Cup of Harmony campaign didn't exactly get of the start the fans would have been looking for, going down 4-2 to Turori. There were positives to take from the match; however pitted against on of the top sides in the competition there was little in the end that the White and Greens could do to prevent the outcome.

A new look Schottia starting line-up had two noticeable changes from the relatively settled team, which competed in the World Cup qualifiers. FC Zürich's Eoin Killanen slotted into midfield in place of former captain Colin Donaldson, who retired just before the start of the Cup of Harmony. Also Holin's Chris Jack came in at right back, covering for stalwart Jack Gordon, the right-back forced to pull out through injury.

Schottia were, as was to be expected, on the back foot from the off. Turori went close early on with shots from Inamari Altariiz and Etamara Kulkkiia both firing narrowly wide. Altariiz also tested D'Araby on 11 minutes with a fine strike from the edge of the box, the Schottic keeper only managing to turn the ball out for a corner.

It didn't take long after that for Turori to break the deadlock Altariiz was again involved, this time surging into the box before squaring the ball for Inlite Makakio who had the goal at their mercy. The midfielder duly slotted the ball under D'Araby to make it 1-0. There was more to come however, and Turori took advantage of a shell-shocked Schottia to double their lead on 22 minutes. Makakio, who was by this stage having a great game was provider yet again, the Arcticala Inlet man whipping the ball across the edge of the 18-yard-line. The cross beat everyone in the Schottia team before landing at the feet of Altariiz who got enough on shot to make it 2-0. Stand in Jack, was being given the run around in a baptism of fire; it would be a harsh lesson for the 22-year-old who was making his first competitive start.

Schottia needed some sort of a response and they got it in the form of the ever dependable Gaston Avelione. The Handon United attacker showed that he was no less dangerous on the left wing than he was up front, picking up the ball 25 yards out, before easing past Dmitri Levada and drilling the ball under the sprawling Disterfred in the Turori goal. The goal came on 39 minutes, the timing meant that his team would go down the tunnel at half-time with a glimmer of hope.

The Second half started a little more promisingly for the Scots, Mark Allen nearly latching onto a Joey Bia pass, after the winger did well to get past Strike FC defender Tarek Edgeli. There was also a set piece chance for Jon Fotan, however the Warriors midfielder was unable to get his strike on target, the ball was always rising and couldn't test Disterfred.

It would be Turori who would strike next however, and it always seemed like a goal was inevitable. The move began with a hopeful ball forward from Geafi Laina-Sola who managed to find the feet of Klaillal Tuirma, the Mliona-Lpaka player did very well to pick out Altariiz in the Schottia box, who didn't hesitate in restoring Turori's two goal lead. Again the Turorian fans could breath a sigh of relief as it seemed like the game would be put beyond Schottia.

There was some life left in the White and Greens though, and they once again managed to string together some passes in the final third. Substitute Mark Kelman, on for his debut replacing Joey Bia, played a neat one-two with Gary Corsie. The Cornellians man receiving the ball back on the edge of the box somehow managed to get an initial shot away. The ball, which cannoned back off of a Turorian defender, eventually fell to the feet of Fotan, who scrambled the ball over the line after the second or third attempt.

The goal really brought something out of Schottia who ran back with the ball, eager to restart the match after the goal went in. Indeed there were chances for Barry Gorman's side and both Corsie and Killanen had shots saved. However, it was to be the Eels who would have the final word. It was Makakio again, who was at the heart of everything that was good about Turori today, who found his way to the Schottia by-line before squaring the ball. The recipient was his brother Enluta Makakio, who nodded the ball home to put the result beyond any doubt.

It was a hugely spirited performance from Schottia, however, in the end the stronger side prevailed. The next match for Barry Gorman is against Ceni, and they will be hoping for a result in order to avoid finishing bottom of the group. A win in this game will be a must if they are to stand any chance of progression.

by **Chiata** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 6:14 pm

Chiata Times
Predictions Correct(Mostly)

Once every blue moon, everything that is supposed to happen in a group with Chiata happens as it should on paper. Last matchday was one of those days. Semarland had their upset against Gloriax with a score of 2-1. No one expected that to happen. Well, except for us. "Gloriax and Semarland duke it out for a chance at qualification. Semarland summons the courage and wins in a 4-3 shootout that had fans on the edge of their seats." Besides the score, we nailed the upset result. Both teams came out a little more defensively than expected which led to a lower scoring game. According to Semarland media, Cisse and Lygaard had the two scores on the day for the Semars while Hiett had the only score for Gloriax. Sadly, our draw prediction for the Chiata vs. Jeruselem game proved to be false. The Chiata Suns actually won a game they were supposed to!

Chiata took control of the game in Mirai-Kan, Mizuyuki; quickly forcing a defensive style to be played that would eventually persist throughout the entire match. The back five of Robertson, Stevenson, Chriss, Miles, and Smith all played a great game. Only 4 shots were allowed on goal and all four were stopped or punched away squarely by Stewert. Danza got a good shot off at the goal, what seemed to be the only good one by the Princesses, but Stewert made a spectacular dive that punched the ball away and allowed Miles to clear the danger. Contrary to the score, Jeru controlled the midfield for most of the game and ended up with 62% possession time. Sadly, they did nothing with it. However, when the Suns would get an attack going, they would actually get somewhere. Britt had a square shot from 10 yards away that Vatsisvakis was somehow able to punch over the crossbar. However, Chiata would not be denied as the resulting corner sailed into the box. Swade somehow missed the header and the ball bounced to the ground untouched. Keoni, who had subbed in ten minutes prior, slid to the ball and made contact with it. Somehow, the ball spun through the clot of defenders and trickled in the goal. Vatsisvakis was too late as he had a hard time locating the ball.

Needless to say, Chiata continued to play excellent defense coupled with dangerous strikes up field every once in a while. Stevenson and Smith had an excellent day breaking up long passes intended for targets like Dallas, the striker, and Danza. Despite their best efforts, the Princesses could simply not break the Suns' defense. On the other side of the pitch, Jeruselem had a few mistakes but were otherwise playing an excellent defensive game. They were also winning the possession battle flat out, yet somehow, through mistakes or great plays by Chiata, were unable to convert a chance into a score. The game ended frustratingly early at 90 minutes +1, much to the fury of Coach Dallas who wanted more stoppage time.

Group G, Matchday One
Semarland 2–1 Gloriax
Chiata 1–0 Jeruselem

--Group G                     Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Semarland                     1   1  0  0    2   1  +1    3
2 Chiata                        1   1  0  0    1   0  +1    3
3 Gloriax                       1   0  0  1    1   2  −1    0
4 Jeruselem                     1   0  0  1    0   1  −1    0

Not much can be told about the group after matchday one for the big picture. However, a few nations have their chances lifted greatly. Semarland is at the top of the Group, just as we had predicted for Matchday One, but only by one point for. Chiata, ours truly, is in second while matchings Semarland's three points. Gloriax and Jeruselem take the bottom two spots in that order and will clash head to head in a bout to save their Cup of Harmony campaigns from ruin. Chiata will have to make the red hot Semars run cold if we want to take the group. A Chiatan win would likely see us in the knockout rounds, while if Jeruselem and Gloriax draw at the same time, that would clinch our advancement. If Semarland wins, they would likely advance, making this game huge for both teams. All the teams in Group G will be giving their all on the pitch, which should provide for some awesome plays and amazing games. Despite Semarland's run, we still stand with our narrow win for Chiata, a fact that is all more likely with the clutch game over Jeruselem. Or is it all just wishful thinking?

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Wed Dec 31, 2014 3:27 am

Cosumar Sports Broadcasting Network
Post-Match Interview, Live from Mizuyuki

"Welcome, I'm CSBN Soccer Reporter Gary Dodgestone, coming to you from on the pitch here at Koiro Aisaka Stadium, where the national teams of Cosumar and United States of Devonta have just played out a 0-0 draw in their first of three group matches in the Cup of Harmony. The Dragons were the heavy favorites in this one but it didn't quite play out the way they hoped. To advance, they'll now be forced to take points from Greater Watford and Apox - both of which are better than the Devontans. Let's see what manager Farris Crowley has to say about his squad's performance tonight. Sir Crowley?"

"The players did everything they possibly could, we just couldn't get the goal today. The second half in particular went really well for us, in terms of the speed of our game and the quality of chances. We just couldn't make that crucial breakthrough. We were in at the kill several times, but failed to land the lethal blow."

"Do you think you got off to a fast enough pace in the first half?"

"No, but it's something that we're working on. It's a new tournament, new country, new opponents. We've just got to get back in World Cup mode. I think the guys are there mentally, we always try to come out and be aggressive in the first fifteen minute, but it's a process of re-adjusting. But like I said, the game in the first half was not as quick as what we needed in order to open up the defense. You know, at certain times we need to move the ball side to side faster in order to create those moments."

"You've made it clear that another group stage elimination in this Cup of Harmony is unacceptable. Does failing to produce three points against the supposedly worst team in the entire field concern you at all?

"We still have at least two more games here, both tough games, but this result does not discourage me. I can't fault the players today, they gave everything for a win in this one. It's on me to put them in better positions to score on the opponent. United States of Devonta aren't a bad team, and I don't consider this an embarrassing or highly surprising tie. They're a team that does well to produce many draws and can put a lot of bodies behind the ball and defend as well as anyone. Their goalkeeper Bradley Cooper did a just phenomenal job tonight as well. We've just got to keep attacking and getting into good areas like we did today and we'll, you know, we'll be alright."

"What was the impact of Francois Renault subbing in around the 63rd minute?"

"[Ace] Newman didn't seem his sharpest at times tonight, had squandered a few chances, so I made the move to bring Renault in and I thought he really lifted the tempo and the quality of the game for us. He was outstanding. The combination of him with Engström was brilliant, running with and without the ball. Renault...his skill set is irreplaceable, the way he views the game,changes the pace and passes the ball. At age 33, he is still world-class. Evidence of that was on display tonight. The quality of the game jumped three levels the moment he was introduced. It's been a pleasure to work with him and witness his development over the last decade or so. He may not be playing 90 minutes every time anymore, but he still fills an important role on this team. He was unbelievable tonight. But like I've said, that golden moment just never came for us."

"What's your prognosis of the remaining two Group F matches?"

"Absolutely, this week is a monumental one for Cosumarite soccer and the trajectory we want to be heading in towards the next World Cup. We know the importance of the games coming up and we're excited. It's very simple. We need to win against Greater Watford. We know the crowd and the atmosphere is going to be amazing. So we'll learn from this game here tonight and go forward and give it our all to qualify from the group."

"Alright, thank you Sir. That was Cosumar National Team Manager Farris Crowley here in Amaya, where the Dragons are exiting the pitch with just a single point from 143rd-ranked United States of Devonta. This puts Cosumar in a bit of a hole early in their Cup of Harmony campaign, but they still control their own destiny. Win, and advance. It all starts tomorrow at the Amaya Skylight Dome, where the Dragons will take on 69th-ranked Greater Watford in a must-win showdown! This concludes our broadcast from Mizuyuki! We'll now send it back to the CSBN Studios for more sports news from around Cosumar, including an instant classic in the Iron Bowl, after this commercial break."

by **Greater Watford** » Wed Dec 31, 2014 4:25 am

Hornets suffer narrow defeat
In their first ever Cup of Harmony game, Greater Watford fell just short of the mark, clocking a 1-0 loss, reminiscent of some of the earlier AOCAF matches played by the Hornets. In the nation of Mizuyuki, there was a strong contingent of travelling fans to follow the Hornets progress, but they would be disappointed with their result today. Qualification to the Cup of Harmony was secured by Greater Watford’s playoff appearance, one that surprised many people in the world.

Before the game, with the updated KPG Rankings, Apox were 28th, and Greater Watford 69th, a difference of 41 positions between the nations. A significant difference, but one the Hornets have overcome before, notably against Turori, who are also here at the Cup of Harmony. For the start of the game, Apox lined up in their 4-1-3-2 formation, against Greater Watford’s 4-1-2-1-2. The red and white striped kit of Apox contrasted with the yellow of Greater Watford.

The first opportunity fell for Apox in the 3rd minute. Osvaldo Current played a careless pass towards Louis Revson, and it was intercepted by Armando Quillisi. Prolific goalscorer Tolgus Tregajorran ran onto the through ball, and angled a shot low towards the corner of the goal. Kendrick Hannon did well to reach the ball, and parried it away for a corner. From the resulting corner, a scramble saw Adnan Zozula volley the ball towards goal from 12 yards, but it clipped the top of the crossbar and went wide.

Apox dominated the opening 15 minutes, but in the 17th minute, Greater Watford nearly scored against the run of play. Ben Hatem played a simple pass to Ulrika Kinlasson, but neither player appeared to notice the oncoming Mario Mannetti. The Hornet’s captain flicked the ball away, and burst towards the box. Ettie Seabrooke closed in on Mannetti, who attempted to pull the ball across goal to Peréz. The pass was overhit slightly, and Peréz couldn’t reach the ball for what would’ve been an easy tap-in.

For Greater Watford, going in at half time with the scores equal would’ve been the target, but unfortunately, in the 41st minute a goal was scored by Apox. Tolgus Tregajorran, one of the top goalscorers in Apox’s history, got the goal. Receiving the ball 25 yards out, he was able to turn pass Ryan Warthon. Elmo Dowling ran across as Tregajorran run into the box, but Tregajarron placed his shot over Dowling’s outstretched legs, and Hannon couldn’t react fast enough to save the shot. 1-0 to Apox, and that was the score at the end of half-time.

The opening 10 minutes of the second half saw Greater Watford make some tentative attacking moves. Despite their efforts, they could only get 2 shots away, with Mannetti having a shot saved, and Peréz blasting wide of the mark. In the 56th minute, de Rosso saw the need to take off Peréz, and throw on the veteran Freddy Lincoln. It almost paid off immediately, as 2 minutes later, Current’s cross from the right was headed goalwards by Lincoln, but it was too close to Ettie Seabrooke, who saved with relative ease.

Apox were also looking to score, and had some good opportunities. The closest was in the 74th minute, when Adnan Zozula found space in the box, and fired a first time shot. Hannon made some contact with the ball, deflecting it upwards, and crucially slowing the ball down. There was just enough time for Dowling to hoof the ball away off the goal-line and away from the box. Despite a few protests from Apox’s players and fans, TV replays would show the ball didn’t cross the line.

In the dying minutes, Greater Watford threw everything forward, taking off Revson, defensive midfielder and replacing him with striker Pip Roberto. Roberto had one shot, that was easily blocked, and with a smaller number of defenders, the Hornets were vulnerable. Tolgus Tregajorran nearly got a second, but his shot from the edge of the box was parried away by Hannon, who was in good form. The whistle blew, and it finished 1-0, on reflection a fair result, albeit a disappointing one for the Hornets.

Greater Watford will face Cosumar in their next game. This is already looking like a must win game for both sides, as it could potentially decide who takes 2nd place in the group. Cosumar drew 0-0 against the unfancied United States of Devonta, so our next game is shaping up to be a great encounter.

by **Electrum** » Wed Dec 31, 2014 5:04 am

OOC: Miranda Lawrence is a conservative writer

Centralis Herald - Comment - Miranda Lawrence

Gas and Mining projects signed by Quebecois Consortium: Winners and Losers

After four years of protracted negotiations, finally, the newly elected governement in Electrum and their respective Quebecois counterparts have come to a historic agreement which will see cooperation between the two nations in resource extraction both in the Endemien Sea as well as in the Great Sandy Desert in the two territories to the north-west of Hamilton. Although as a whole, this project will bring mostly positives to the community, environmentalists, such as the Greens Society leader Marco Lombardi warn that this is a dangerous project for the environment. As with any project, there are winners, and there are losers. Read on to find out who they are.

The first obvious winner is the government. Even though the Conservative-Liberty Party started the negotiations, did all the groundwork, and got it extremely close to a point to where it was going to be signed, the newly elected Labour-Liberty-Greens Alliance will take all the credit for all the hard work. (Well, maybe except the Greens Society who are not all that happy about it, read on below). This project has a large variety of benefits to all Electrumites, but the main point here is that this generates revenue for the budget in the form of taxation. More revenue means more spending, or more tax cuts. Either way, they're going to get a lot of credit for jobs creation as well, and it's just a general feel-good scenario for them.

The next, and most obvious winner are the respective CEOs of the corporations involved in the consortium. Of course they would be extremely happy, coming out of the negotiation with fifty percent of the profits, and there is a lot of money to be had. Capp Energies CEO, Lord Albert Capp, Count of Veronaville, said that, "We are very happy about the deal, this represents the future of liquefied petroleum gas extraction in Electrum, and we are excited about this new project. We're going to make sure we start work as quickly as possible, thank you." The shareholders/owners of the Quebecois Capp Energies, Moulson Corporation, Imperial Oil, Minecorps and Attawapiskat Mining Company as well as the Electrumite Haven Gas Corporation and Plaxo Corporation are going to be earning dividends to the millions and billions of dollars.

The final winner? Well, that's us, obviously. Who doesn't like a tax cut once in a while? Or new projects from the government? Increased spending for all the government departments! In all seriousness, inflation is going to fall because of the lower prices to be paid for oil. As the oil will be made and refined domestically, it's use will become much more cheaper. Airline fuel, petrol tanks in cars and manufacturing is going to push costs down for flying, driving and buying Electrum-made goods. It's going to be awesome. And since it's in the desert, it won't harm any animals or (maybe not as important) ecosystems. That's a big plus as well.

But what about the negatives? As with any agreement, this comes with some large drawbacks. Although everything seems rosy peach, all that glitters is not gold (okay, maybe except the gold being mined up near Hamilton). A loser could be considered to be the environment. All of this gas and oil extraction means large amounts of carbon dioxide gets released into the air, aggravating the effects of climate change. Well, we would be a loser if it weren't for our carbon capturing technology, whereby carbon dioxide is captured by industrial pumps before being compressed and shipped and put into underground cracks/shafts. If you can't see it, it's not there, right? Also, we have nuclear power plants anyways for back up power, so really, no one really cares about the carbon emissions except for the Greenies.

Speaking of the Greenies, the other negative is that they're actually threatening to pull down this government! After two weeks of governance too! The nerve of those hippies who want to take hostage our nation. Their leader, Marco Lombardi, said that, "We are considering to withdraw our alliance agreements with the current government, sparking new elections. And we don't want that, do we?" Already two weeks in, and they are at it. And the Labour Party will need to bend down to their every whim, lest they want to lose power and have a new round of elections. Even though this bill is certain to pass through the government (with the Conservatives voting for it), the Labour Party should stand up to those Green Society Party freaks and say no. Maybe we can have new elections and vote them off. That'll teach them.

So there you have it, there are no losers after all. Just winners, and the Greens Society who whine... every sane person should be in support of this new investment. And I think it does have the popular support within the wider community, the way it should be.

by **Gylias** » Wed Dec 31, 2014 8:46 am

The rays of the sun shone gently into the room, illuminating the grass and greenery outside as far as the eye could see, and the sound of birds entered through the open window. In bed lay Hikari, who had earlier just pulled her pillow slightly higher and was now relaxing with her hands stretched behind her head, after that intensely tranquil sleep she had just emerged from a few minutes ago. Though she was fully awake, she was in no hurry to leave (for such was the strength of the bed's magnetic field), and instead breathed softly and smiled as she was enchanted by her surroundings.

By far, what she considered to be the most pleasant sensation of all, was that of her beloved wife Asuka, whose head had come to rest against Hikari's chest as a pillow, and whose waist-length hair spilled all over the place, cleverly hiding her face from view. Its colour, the same fiery red with an orange tint as always, betrayed no hint of her age, merely of her possession of remarkably resilient hair. Well, that and enough money to afford regular colouring treatment when necessary. (The two worked together very well as a team.)

Hikari smiled warmly as she ran her hand through Asuka's hair and felt her breath on her chest. She tossed a fleeting glance towards the electronic clock located on the shelf next to their bed, seeing it display "9:42", before returning to lovingly looking upon her wife and playing with her hair gently.

<Dang, I know the "sleep mode" switch was somewhere around here!>, she thought in Miraian, chuckling softly.

Slowly, slowly, Asuka began to display movement. She opened her mouth as if to yawn, except that the yawn failed to turn up on time. She then slowly moved her head upwards, sideways, managing to peek at her surroundings after moving the hair out of her eyes.

"<Hello, he-llo!>", Hikari said, in a singing tone that was such an obvious imitation of her wife, that Asuka couldn't help but giggle and smile upon hearing it. "<Good morning, darling!>"

"<G'morning to you too, hun.>", Asuka replied, scratching her head, and also looking at the electronic clock. "<Been up long?>"

'<Oh, I've only been up all night, because you keep. Bloody. Snoring!>", Hikari replied with a sweet, lighthearted tone, softly tapping Asuka's head for the last three words.

Asuka chuckled. "<Y'sure you didn't leave the amp on again or something?>", she replied, playing along.

"<No, you know I never use that!>"

Asuka converted her right hand into a fist, sticking the index finger out, and slowly raised it upwards, parking it in thin air right under Hikari's nose. She sustained it there, with Hikari's eyes fixed on it quite firmly, for a rather short period that felt longer than it was due to its overall silence and lack of substantial movement.

The standoff eventually ended when Asuka gently flicked Hikari's nose with her finger, and joked, "<You're a liar~>"

She then pushed herself upwards with her hands against the bed, wrapped her arms snugly around Hikari's neck, and touched her forehead against hers. "<You loooooooooove using my amp~>", she whispered in Hikari's ear, playfully.

"<Almost as much as you love drooling on my chest while sleeping?>", Hikari teased.

Asuka smiled knowingly, and responded by kissing Hikari deeply, with her reciprocating and moving her own hands into an embrace.

After she was finished, she pulled her head back slightly, looked Hikari in the eyes, and traced a circle on her cheek with her finger. "<I apologise, darling, from now on I'll make sure I only do it while kissing.>"

Hikari smiled, and giggled. "<You could still use a bit more practice with your tongue-wrestling, dear.>"

"<Told you I prefer thumb-wrestling. At least then I can actually see what I'm doing!>", Asuka said, winking.

"<Except if you're blindfolded.>"

Asuka nodded thoughtfully. "<Of course.>"

A silent pause ensued, as the couple held each other close and enjoyed each other's warmth and presence.

"<You know what else you could use a bit more practice with, Hikari-chan?>", Asuka eventually asked.

Hikari looked at her, puzzled. "<What's that?>"

Asuka grinned mischievously, and then leaped out of bed. "<Racing!>", she exclaimed excitedly as she began to mock-run. "<Last one to the kitchen's a chicken!>"

In between laughter, Hikari managed to say, "<But... we never eat chicken for breakfast, Asuka-chan!>".

"<That is absolutely correct! We do not eat chicken for breakfast!>", Asuka replied, her absolute confidence completely intact.

<Huh. Can't think of a good punchline for that.>, Asuka thought, while looking at Hikari slapping the mattress slightly while laughing. <Still, I made my darling happy. That's a good start for the day!>

She then rubbed her stomach in response to hearing it growl slightly. <Yes, yes, of course, breakfast is the next step. That is logical, that makes all the sense.>, she thought as she went into the kitchen to prepare breakfast. <Well, all of one sense, mainly, that being the taste. Though it does have a smell component too, not to mention a visual one... not much of an auditory one, though, that only goes into the preparation... does eating toast count as audio perception?...>

by **Furellum** » Wed Dec 31, 2014 9:22 am

The four creatures walked trough the vaulted gateway of the Lanchsazorld Tower. The passage led under the thick walls that surrounded a small courtyard, with the tower itself rising from the walls at the north end. The gateway was at the south end, and ran underneath a smaller tower overlooking the bridge. This had a small enclave where a sentry could be posted, and directly above it was a space where a bell would once have hung. To the east and west the walls jutted inwards to the courtyards and were set with doors.

The first of the quartet to enter the courtyard was the young lynx, Vaxot. He stared around the courtyard. From the walls a porch jutted out, running in a perfect circle around the perimeter, held up by fluted pillars of carved stone. The area covered by this porch was paved, but in the centre of the ring was a garden. Plants spilled everywhere in every shade of green, with flashes of white and yellow and crimson. In the very middle was a tall, old larch tree, gnarled and twisted. Vaxot looked at the overgrown garden and sighed. "What a dump!" he said to his companions. "Nothing a little work won't fix." replied the old ferret.
The wolf supporting him led the old ferret to a bench under the verandah. "Rest here for a bit, sir."
The ferret sighed as he sunk down onto the old bench. "Thank you, Alisa."
The horse in armour sat down beside him. "I don't like it, Gheorghe. With only the one entry point, we've backed ourselves in to a corner."
Gheorghe patted the horse's scarred arm. "With only one entrance, us four could hold it against an army. If we provision well, we can outlast any siege."
The old ferret stood up slowly. "But with any luck, this will not be the site of our battle. This is, and always has been, a place of learning, not a fortress."

He walked over to the door of the main tower, rising high above the rest of the building. The door set at its base was made of blackened iron in scrolls over a silver, glittering metal. Gheorghe touched the door, and said something quietly. The silver metal glowed and the double door swung inwards. Gheorghe turned to his companions. "Welcome to the Mage's College of Lanchsazorld. As Furellum's Archmage, I'm establishing this as the new centre for the learning of the scared and arcane arts. And as I am also the last surviving member of the Collegium Arcanus, I declare it also to be a stronghold against the fascist menace."

Cup of Harmony 62 - Everything Thread

Chapter 3, Part 2

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