CORNELLIAN EMPIRE NEWS (closed, Region Only)

[Free Garza]

Free Garza City Matador,
Lisa Benitez, Writer

President Carlita Ruiz has announced today that she is pregnant by her ex-husband and that she is planning to remarry him. She also indicated that she planned to take only the minimum term for maternity leave, as "I have sacred duties and obligations as President, which I dare not neglect. If it kills me, I will be both a President and a wife and mother, and somehow do well at all of these. The reports of my resignation are greatly exaggerated."

Minister of War Julio Ruiz Cardenas, the President's first cousin and ex-husband, has admitted to harboring presidential ambitions of his own, but will, "wait my turn, at which point my dear fiancee the President can take it much easier. Thank God that Presidents cannot seek re-election. Some fool would try to convince her to spend another six years working her tail off. I want her alive and well, thank you very much."

The President laughed at that and assured her fiance that, "One term is more than enough for me, dear. I'm President, not Queen."

This reporter has to admit that she was amused along with others at that press conference. The President's witty banter with her ex-husband the War Minister was indeed a pleasant show of warmth and humanity. It was evident that they have a great, loving relationship, and while some foreign press might condemn her for conceiving out of wedlock, this is Free Garza. We've moved beyond such inane moralistic judgments. We are better than that, more progressive and enlightened.

Most Free Garzans appear to approve of the President's candor and openness, not to mention her solid work ethic. She currently has a 86% approval rating, not bad for one who recently scandalized foreign press and governments with her past career in hard-core porn.

This reporter is pleased to see Free Garzans stand up for Garzan values, those of our revolutionary present, not anachronistic ones from the bad old days of clerical tyranny.

For the Matador, I am Lisa Benitez.

[New Edom]

FIINEBERG TIMES

SHOULD THE ALLIED STATES LET THEM BACK?
The General Ponders Justice Issues
Annabelle Barca

FINEBERG, New Edom

Following General Perrin Pahath-Moab's being established as President of the Council of Ministers with full recognition by the Regent and the National Legislature, a question was posed to him by Lina Comhghall, the former Minister of Finance for the Free Congress Party, as to whether or not he would permit non-violent political parties, such as the Feminist Party, which held five seats in the National Legislature.

Comhghall expressed the thought that the best way that the General can demonstrate his claim that he stands for law and order as well as protection of democracy in New Edom is to allow

Lina Comhghall

"Political parties that have posed no physical, material or ideological threat to the nation save by opposing government views. The Civil War is over; let us embrace one another as fellow citizens, unafraid of disagreement, always seeking the best compromise or understanding of one another for the betterment of this country." Lina Comhghall has reformed the Unionist Party, a Social Democratic political organization.

Feminism was banned in New Edom following political confrontation with the Free Congress Party (then in power) due to its association with the Anarcho-Syndicalist Party which demonstrated ties to organized terrorism and other criminal activity. Investigations more recently have suggested that the original investigations and arrests were the result of bad information and propaganda by the then Minister of Police, John Kohath.

The General's new cabinet as well as former cabinet officials met to discuss the matter last Wednesday at the Palace of Justice, and the solution agreed upon was a national referendum. However the poll being taken is also offered to the international community, who are invited to share their wisdom and experience.

The following link leads to the electronic poll and referendum on the status of Feminism in New Edom. http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=219154

[New Edom]

FIINEBERG TIMES

PRESIDENT PREGNANT
Free Garza Leadership Has Loose Morals
Annabelle Barca

Recent announcement of President Carlita Ruiz's pregnancy by her ex-husband has anti-Feminists buzzing in New Edom according to recent reports.

"That the Head of State of a nation, even a nation as degenerate as Free Garza, shows how dangerous "Feminism" really is." said Prophet Thaddeus Burden, former Foreign Minister for the Free Congress. "It purports to encourage liberty and the equal citizenship for women, but in fact merely encourages the destruction of morality and society. This is a disgrace."

"And this is also what happens when first cousins marry," said George Gutenberg, member of the National Legislature and leading Free Congress Member. "But why is anyone surprised? This is Free Garza after all, and the President of the country is an ex porn star. At least we don't do any significant trade with them--I'd wonder where it had been."

To quote the Free Garza City Matador,

President Carlita Ruiz has announced today that she is pregnant by her ex-husband and that she is planning to remarry him. She also indicated that she planned to take only the minimum term for maternity leave, as "I have sacred duties and obligations as President, which I dare not neglect. If it kills me, I will be both a President and a wife and mother, and somehow do well at all of these. The reports of my resignation are greatly exaggerated."

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

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

January, 1289 (2013)
International News
GENERAL PAHATH-MOAB REFLECTS RETURN
Referendum on Status of Women Raises Feminist Hopes

Fineberg, New Edom - General Perrin Pahath-Moab, current military ruler of the Allied States of New Edom, has announced that he is considering allowing the return of all Feminist Party members currently in exile in the Empire to their home country. Annabelle Barca of the Fineberg Times has reported that the General is considering this course in order to "demonstrate his claim that he stands for law and order as well as protection of democracy in New Edom." This news has been met with energetic approval from the Shrailleeni government.

The investigation, imprisonment, and ultimate removal of hundreds of Feminist Party members and affiliates before the Civil War has long been an object of contention in the otherwise friendly Shrailleeni-New Edomite relationship. The exile has long been believed by members of the Royal Court to be the result of false information and warrantless suspicion. Their removal to the Empire was suggested only to prevent "unfortunate action" on the side of the New Edomite government, and to investigate more fully the supposedly "dangerous" nature of their activities. Time has revealed nothing to warrant the New Edomites' accusations, and since the exile the Empire has intensified its diplomatic efforts to allow the Feminists to return. The Mother Empress has made clear her conviction that the Feminists represent peaceful and Enlightened ideals and have a right to return to their home country.

General Perrin's plan is to bring both New Edomite and International voices into a Referendum on the Status of Women in New Edom, which promises to consider the issue of the Feminist movement and Party. The Mother Empress has announced that the referendum shall be attended by Foreign Minister Zattem Resbruck himself, as a sign of how seriously the Empire believes in the rights of its New Edomite Sisters. The Mother Empress also released a statement on the matter, expressing her hope for the Referendum to enact positive change:

"The New Edomites of the Feminist Party have been guests of the Empire for many months now. We have spoken with them, dined with them, studied with them. And our conclusion is clear. The Feminist Party of New Edom does not represent a threat to that nation, and its members should be allowed to return to full citizenship. While our Sisters continue to be welcome on our shores, we no longer believe that their forced exile from New Edom is necessary or legitimate. These women and men are New Edomite, and they deserve to be reunited with their families and friends. I praise General Pahath-Moab for initiating this conference, and pray that justice will be done. The time has finally come for a unified New Edom to embrace its Children, and to keep these people from their lives no longer."

The Foreign Minister's duties will be held by the Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs until his return from the extended conference.

President of Free Garza Mother-to-Be

Imperial City - President Carlita Ruiz of Free Garza has announced that she is with child. The Free Garza City Matador has stated that the pregnancy will not interfere with the President's governmental duties, and that the nation will continue to enjoy her leadership during this exciting time.

The article identified the father of the child as Free Garzan Minister of War Julio Ruiz Cardenas, the first cousin and ex-husband of the President. While the child was apparently conceived out-of-marriage, the pair will be remarrying in order to reenforce their union. The circumstances of the pregnancy have already been attacked in the Fineberg Times, which has accused the President of loose morality and even added an anti-Feminist element to its criticism. Indeed, the Times took its opportunity to express the dangerously deep anti-Feminism of the End Times Church, displaying a set of mental gymnastics difficult for the Shrailleeni reader to follow.

Matriarch of State Aryni Resyanna fe Shrailleen announced Imperial support for the Free Garzan President, saying that "the Empire lends its full moral support to President Ruiz, and its joy to hear of the blessing bestowed upon her. All of Shrailleeni sends its prayers and joyful tidings to the Mother-to-Be for a healthy pregnancy and happy motherhood. From one mother to another, I wish her well."

In the Empire, of course, motherhood is a prerequisite for leadership among women and is seen as an integral part of Enlightened Rule. While the President's past and the circumstances of the conception are cause for disapproval within the Empire, her re-marriage and the enormous blessing of the gift itself far outweigh any petty misgivings in the popular Shrailleeni mindset. The idea of a foreign leader also being an expectant mother has captured the fascination of the Empire, as President Ruiz has fast developed a popular following among Shrailleeni subject.

"It is a shame that she leads in a republican system," one resident of Imperial City commented, "here is finally a foreign leader who might qualify for Enlightened Rule."

[Late Roman Empire]

Chalcedon Gazette,
Manlius Constantius

The news that exiled former Emperor Sextus Macrinus Felix has claimed the title "Emperor of Arcologia" has resulted in a very quick response from the present Augustus, Valerian II. He has condemned the "adventurism and meddling in the internal affairs of Arcologia by one of our subjects, who of late was our own beloved Emperor here in the Empire." The Emperor apparently regarded this expedition by the famous exiled ruler and his armed cohorts as a sign of harmful ambitio, which could destabilize relationships in Ceti.

Valerian today issued the Edict of Chalcedon, stipulating that Macrinus has been stripped of his Roman citizenship permanently, and that any Roman who swears allegiance to him will forfeit his citizenship as well, as this oath is "incompatible with the oath of fealty to us, as Augustus and Lord of the World." Henceforth, Macrinus is to be regarded as a stateless person, not a Roman.

Reports that Macrinus has converted to the End Times' Church was also a factor, along with his latest statements warning of the "dangers of the luxury, idleness, and bureaucratic inertia of the sort that I witnessed in Maraque, which convinced me that this was not how God wished us to live. Women are elevated above men, the soldier is reviled, and the practices of Sodom and Gomorrah are praised, rather than abhorred. I have repented of the wild debauchery that I committed while in that land, seeing the light and a true vision of what God wants from me, in the writings of Simon Cove and Thaddeus Burden."

Further shocking was the report that the erstwhile Emperor has taken three wives, in keeping with the practice of the End Times' Church. Since polygamy is illegal in the Empire (though concubinage is legal), many Romans have rejected the idea of supporting him on moral as well as patriotic grounds.

Now, it remains to be seen just what the Arcologians will make of their new self-appointed Emperor. Will they have this man to be king over them?

Manlius Constantius is a Senior Editorial Writer for the Chalcedon Gazette

[Macureus]

Arod Chronicle,
Article by Stefa Macan

The Coven has been apparently called into special emergency session to address the issue of alarming statistics which show that men are emigrating and defecting from Macureus, most notably men with higher IQs, to other countries and seeking asylum or citizenship in those lands. The majority appear to be headed to United Valik, but a significant minority to New Macureus and even a few to countries like Nalaya, New Edom, and Draconia.

Evidence appears to show that growing discontent among the more educated men of Old Macureus is the primary cause of the "brain drain." The Dissidents' defection in the past was discouraged, as it might reduce social upheaval, but now there are fears that this has backfired. Recent data has demonstrated a decline in scientific and technological advances due to such a gender gap, since men constitute a significant minority of academics, engineers, scientists, mathematicians, etc. There has also been a negative impact on the arts, since many men have complained about being "stifled" in their creative potential.

Most disturbing, however, are the reports that this loss of manpower is affecting the armed and police forces, weakening the readiness of national defense and security in Old Macureus. As one Dissident is reported as saying, "We've wanted a vote in our country's affairs, have been denied it repeatedly, and are now voting with our feet."

The question is: what is the solution? Tighter border controls to prevent the exodus? Encouraging the replacement of these men by other males inclined to accept the system? Or will the State actually to make some concessions to the menfolk? That's the open question that only the Oracles can answer. Both we in the press and the government, and indeed the men and women of Old Macureus, are waiting with baited breath for their findings. No doubt, so is the outside world.

[Hittanryan]

Seismic Shift in New Edom Government

In response to continued internal instability, New Edom's military has officially assumed "emergency powers," naming Brigadier-General Perrin Pahath-Moab as head of state. After a vote of no confidence resulted in the collapse of the Free Congress government, the Regent James Obed formally requested the military to step in. In a press release, General Pahath-Moab affirmed his commitment to law and order, declaring an end to militia violence in the countryside. He also expressed a willingness to work with elements of President Touchstone's Free Congress coalition as well as the monarchy. The monarchy itself is undergoing a major shift as well. The general announced that King David III will abdicate and the Regent James Obed will be crowned in the coming weeks.

The State Department gave mixed signals in response to these developments. New Edom Ambassador Redstone was cautiously optimistic with regards to Pahath-Moab's new administration, yet expressed concern over what he described as a "culling" of the National Legislature's power and a likely end to democracy in New Edom. "I agree that security, through reigning in warlords and militia, should be New Edom's number one priority right now. However, according to the Edomite constitution, elections need to be held following a vote of no confidence. Frankly, given the nature of this government shakeup, I don't expect any elections to be forthcoming for a long time."

"Emperor of Arcologia" Not Helping

The deposed Roman Emperor Sextus Macrinus Felix's arrival in Arcologia has contributed to a spike in violence in the immediate area. The former Emperor has undergone a religious conversion to the End Times Church, a branch of Protestantism popular in New Edom and recently under fire for its use of sectarian militia. Operating with a private army of mercenaries, he has declared his intention to form a new state in the chaotic wastelands of Arcologia based on ETC principles.

Attempts to impose ETC law on the locals have been met with violence. Clashes have been reported between Macrinus' forces, the Arvo Nation, and the North Tenmar Cartel. The Arvo are fiercely protective of their customs, declaring that they will resist the ETC's conversion efforts "with every ounce of strength from the living and dead." The North Tenmar Cartel will likewise seek to defend itself from Macrinus' anti-drug policies.

Triton Oil and Transition Metals Limited, who operate the two closest arcologies, have remarked that the violence spurred by Macrinus' actions "may prompt corrective measures." Although deliberately vague, this almost certainly implies PMC military action against one or more of the factions should the situation continue to escalate.

[Gavinium Magnus]

Gavinium Weekly Financier,
Renard Slepian, Senior Staff Writer

King Maximian II has announced that Gavinium has seceded from the Cookish States and regained its independence, on the grounds that "the experiment of Cookish protection has proven to cost more in lost autonomy than we have gained in helpful guidance during our transition to a better Gavinium Magnus. The Cookish have shown repeatedly that they cannot be trusted to rule wisely, no matter where they are. Now we must go it alone."

In other news, King Maximian II has also announced a ban on the following religions, effective immediately:

1. Bahai, due to its support for "world federalism."
2. Scientology, due to its "cult-like power over adherents."
3. Islam, due to its "determination to create a global empire composed of and ruled by its faithful and their clergy."
4. Mormonism, due to its "slavish following of every new revelation by its false prophets."
5. Christian Science, due to its "dangerous practice of ignoring modern medicine."
6. Jehovah's Witnesses, due to their "theocratic world-view, which is disloyal to the Crown."
7. Roman Catholicism, due to its allegiance to the Vatican.
8. The state religions of Old Macureus and Shrailleen, due to their oppressive, unjust ways and "allegiance to the wicked regimes of those lands.
9. Magism, for obvious reasons.

All other religions will be free to practice openly, but with these nine, "patriotic and security concerns superseded the privilege of worshiping freely."

The King has further indicated that these bans are temporary and can be "rescinded or suspended upon negotiation of guarantees to prevent the cults in question from endangering the Crown and its rights here in Gavinium Magnus."

It has been stressed that such bans will not apply to foreign nationals, especially foreign diplomats, merchants, investors, and tourists. The King also indicated today that he intends to rule by decree "until further notice, due to increasing pressures and menaces to national security, which necessarily creates such an emergency that it prevents truly constitutional governance, especially of a parliamentary nature."

Among other edicts were those creating new law courts staffed by legal scholars trained in the Roman, Edomite, Tartarian, and Garzan systems of law. A new code of law is apparently in progress, being compiled and organized by the King, to the purpose of resolving much of the laws of the land for the foreseeable future. Count Rupert de Mark, the Chancellor, has resigned in protest of the religious laws, and Prince Mithra has been appointed Chancellor in his stead. An entirely new cabinet, largely consisting of career civil servants and nobles, has taken office with the new Chancellor.

It is the opinion of this writer that the new laws are an overreaction due to paranoia, and that the new King needs to take a step back and deal with only those religious leaders and disciples as actually and directly imperil the Crown and the Realm.

In the name of the Light,
Renard Slepian, Senior Staff Writer for the Gavinian Weekly Financier

[The Cookish States]

Cookish News and Happenings

"Not so Fast."
Fine print of legislation requires Gavinians to jump through hoops before independence.

Gavinium Magnus officially declared its independence yesterday. However, the Secretary of State, Tarah Messina, carefully deconstructed this argument in a press conference. It's easier to give the transcript of her speech than to paraphrase...

"Okay, let me begin with a few key points, after which I will take questions. Do not interrupt me. First, Gavinium Magnus has been under Cookish control for about six months now, a part of our armistice treaty was that Gavinian soldiers would be trained and equipped by the Cookish Army, and that we would use a small number of those troops to assist in any wars or peacekeeping duties. There are about 6,000 of those troops fighting on the west coast as we speak. We cannot afford to lose those troops."

She switches a binder and flips a few pages, then continues, periodically looking down to read her remarks.

"Second, King Maximian addresses us as though we were oppressors. He has not even held a referendum of his people to vote for secession, which is another term of the armistice. And even if he were, Gavinium Magnus will not be trusted with any absolutist government again. If the King wishes to have any power, he will elect a Congress and maintain little more than ceremonial power. A system of checks and balances is imperative. Third, should Gavinium Magnus secede on such sour terms with us, we will be needing back all of our military hardware, as well as the small arms and heavy vehicles we have given them with the understanding that it would be for the betterment of a new government, not to be used even more horrifically by a relapse of one thankfully passed. Finally, there are 23,000 Cookish soldiers in Gavinium Magnus right now acting as police, and as protectors. Until the Gavinian nation can maintain order on its own, independence is an absolute no. All of you are getting a copy of the requirements the nation must meet, to show that my administration is not strong-arming the Gavinian government."

Prerequisites for Independence

-The ability to maintain law and order.
-Management and assured payment of national (or as of now, state) debt.
-A popular referendum to secede.
-A one month transitional period.
-An agreement that the Cookish States keep Paw AFB, which was built near the Alta Padrian border, with a further agreement that it not be used to house warplanes. (refueling, cargo shipping, etc.)
-An agreement for Gavinium Magnus to accept the Cookish States as an ally, and assist in the war against Bratoslouvakia.
-A government outlined which is not a monarchy, one elected popularly by the people they represent, and it must consist of no less than 100 representatives with legislative power.

Should all of these pre-requisites be met, the Cookish States will continue its military aid shipments unchanged, will defend the territorial sovereignty of the borders of Gavinium Magnus, and will donate Fort Heelson (adjacent to the capital) to the Gavinian Military in its entirety, a state of the art facility.

[New Edom]

FIINEBERG TIMES

COOKISH EMPIRE?

Annabelle Barca

FINEBERG, New Edom The recent insistence that the Cookish annexation of Gavinium Magnus be maintained in spite of the wishes of that nation's rightful leader has concerns flying across the cabinet offices in Fineberg.

According to the Gavinium Financier,

King Maximian II has announced that Gavinium has seceded from the Cookish States and regained its independence, on the grounds that "the experiment of Cookish protection has proven to cost more in lost autonomy than we have gained in helpful guidance during our transition to a better Gavinium Magnus. The Cookish have shown repeatedly that they cannot be trusted to rule wisely, no matter where they are. Now we must go it alone."

"I wouldn't want to be subject to the whims of Cookish government. The last two Cookish governments have shown that they have one policy only: aggression. In spite of their attempts to buy off our friendship with money and charitable actions, they have also invaded our country and invaded friendly nations to us before. How exactly are we tolerating them annexing a small peaceful landlocked country?"

The Minister of Foreign Affairs has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance in future from the united New Edom for expansionist imperialist nations in future in the region of Cornellia.

"We did not lead the independence from the Cornellian Empire only to have it revived through the Cookish States. Be it in Dengali, be it in Gavinium, we will fight for the rights of the oppressed to have self determination. We are hoping that the Chancellor understands that forcing another nation to bow their sovereignty for no serious cause is unacceptable. I am sure that at the end of the day he has the best interests of the region at heart as we do, and that he will see that Gavinium Magnus must remain a sovereign state."

[Bratoslovoukia]

The Bratvit Res Publica

PM Pledges Support to Gavinium Magnus as Battle Rages on in Southeastern Cookish States
By Aleksandr Pasterkov

"It is our duty as citizens of the Cornellian Region to guide the oppressed peoples of Gavinium Magnus to freedom and salvation from their Cookish oppressors! I pledge unilateral support to the leadership and military of Gavinium Magnus, whatever may come." Prime Minister Osip Karam spoke this morning in his second press statement since the onset of the Brato-Cookish War. This was met with multi-partisan support from most politicians in the Federal Soviet. Opposition in the Federal Duma has occurred but seems to be limited at the moment. This comes after the Bratoslovoukian Marine Corps and Ground Forces took the city of Ciudad Sorto in the Southeastern Cookish States.

The war, which has been fought for over a month and a half now, was initially favorable for Bratoslovoukia, but it seemed to turn south for several weeks following the defeat of the Bratoslovoukian fleets in the Blue Sea by the coalition blockade. For the past thirty days, Bratoslovoukian troops have been fighting through the Cookish lines in and around Ciudad Sorto. A massive bayonet charge by the army and marines was able to shatter the retreating Cookish soldiers, who have now concentrated their forces towards the Cookish capitol of Ciudad Contierra. General Vladimir Belachek has publicly stated, "Bratoslovoukian troops will be standing in the heart of Ciudad Contierra by the ides of February!"

This bold statement comes at time when public opinion is high in western Bratoslovoukia and in Bratvit, with residents in coastal cities like Karelstadt, Bratavia, and Morovsgrad, not favoring the war, with the glaring exception of the city of Bratvit, where coastal defenses are highly concentrated. Several military parades have recently occurred in major cities although, with war bonds being sold at record highs since the Brato-Zhenghouan War of 2011. Preparations for invasion in coastal cities have occurred, as Karelstadt has already been attacked with missile strike causing a mass exodus from the city. However, many remain in the city, their firearms at their side. If one thing can be commended about the Bratoslovoukian people, is their tenacity.

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

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

January, 1289 (2013)
International News

Gavinium Magnus Announces Independence
Patriarchal Tyrant Expels Cookish, Bans Enlightened Worship

Imperial City - In the midst of the Bratoslovoukian invasion of the Cookish States, to which the Empire has dedicated the largest movement of troops and equipment in centuries, the Cookish Protectorate of Gavinium Magnus announced today that the nation has declared full independence no longer subject to Cookish protection. King Maximian II announced that he would rule by decree, and began by passing a series brutal religious restrictions which went out of their way to insult the Empire and Enlightened Rule. Combined with vocal Bratoslovoukian support of the new regime, this upset has raised serious concerns from the Imperial Palace.

"The announcement by the Gavinium king is deeply concerning to the Empire," stated Matriarch of State Aryni Resyanna fe Shrailleen in an official response to the press. "Diplomatic steps were in place which could have been used to smoothly and peacefully transition into independence. These were not taken by the king. Democratic government, preferable to patriarchal dictatorship and a tradition of that land, has been utterly abolished. These moves have been seen by the Mother Empress and the Royal Court as hastily made, poorly planned, and dangerous in intent."

"Even more, the king has made it clear that he sees the Imperial Government as 'oppressive,' 'unjust,' and 'wicked,' and has seen fit to place the Enlightened Teachings of the Mother Goddess alongside barbaric ideologies such as Scientology and Magism. He has banned the Enlightened Teachings from being practiced within his lands, on pain of unspecified punishment. A king so strongly opposed to the ways of peace, compassion, knowledge, and understanding cannot be considered a legitimate ruler by civilized eyes."

Alongside concerns over the king's religious decrees, the Empire also voiced concerns over the effect that this will have on the ongoing war effort.

"This cannot be coincidence," Matriarch of War Tress Vilnis fe Fromathra stated. "The Gavinium king is likely in league with the Bratoslovoukian enemy, and is using this opportunity to attempt to weaken the Cookish while their country is invaded. What do the Gavinium people feel about this? We hear nothing from them, only the words of the patriarchal monarch who likely feels that his lordly position lofts him above the will of his subjects."

The first skirmishes of Shrailleeni involvement in the Cookish-Bratoslovoukian War began recently, with a small force of Shrailleeni Advance Troops exchanging fire with Bratoslovoukian forces in Ciudad Sorto. The main force of the Shrailleeni Army, numbering around 80,000, has headed north to plan a defense of the Cookish capital. While the Army Matriarch reports confidence of victory, the possible defection of Gavinium troops would certainly increase casualties for the defenders.

Some in the Empire have noted that the actions of the king resemble the Imperial Religious Ban, which until recently forbade the practice of several large foreign religions within the Empire. These critics have also brought up the death penalty which at one time was placed on followers of Islam. These voices were met by the Matriarch of State in her statements, who reminded the uncertain that the Empire has since made more Enlightened steps away from such policies.

"It is true that the Empire placed similar bans on foreign religions. However, the penalty against Islam was quickly rescinded. The ban against Christianity has already been lifted, and language is in progress which will lift the ban against all foreign religions as well. We are an Enlightened people, and after careful study we have seen that such bans accomplish little aside from alienating others. Is the king of Gavinium Magnus so Enlightened? The answer is clear."

Finally, the Matriarch addressed the New Edomite response to the situation, which has been strongly in support of Gavinium independence.

"While I respect the leaders of New Edom, we must unfortunately disagree in our assessments of the situation. 'Independence at any cost' is not the creed that is needed here. Our first commitment must be to the needs of the Gavinium people, and the king is obviously not meeting those needs. The Imperial government urges the government of the Allied States to look more clearly at the situation and gain all possible knowledge before launching accusations of expansionism and aggression. This is a complex situation, and we must make sure that generalizations of past Cookish governments do not cloud our judgements."

[New Edom]

FIINEBERG TIMES

GOD SAVE THE KING!
Coronation in Fineberg
Annabelle Barca)

FINEBERG, New Edom

With Foreign Monarchs, leaders, ministers, and their representatives acclaiming their approval through their presence, today in Fineberg following the abdication of King David III, his uncle, James Obed, assumed the title of King James II.

His Majesty the King was anointed with holy oil by the Archbishop, William Laudner, in the great cathedral of Fineberg, to the acclaim of the people and with full recognition of his royal authority and privilege by General Pahath-Moab, the President of the Council of Ministers. In turn, King James crowned his consort, Princess Rebecca, as Queen Rebecca, the two then emerging hand in hand to greet the cheering crowd.

In a ceremony immediately following this, the Royal Succession was confirmed with Princess Mara Obed recognized as Heir Apparent, to be followed by her younger sister Princess Jocasta, , and then by Count Thomas Lalery and his wife Princess Victoria of Izzyshipper and any of their issue, Countess Olivia Lalery, followed by Prince Elijah Shalmaneser, Princess Saxon and her issue, and by Princess Ava Shalmaneser.

In spite of the general acclamation, there were still supporters of the Free Congress active in the streets singing songs against the Monarchy, and there are still Anarchists roaming and dealing death and destruction in Bara Province, communists sitting in the halls of power in Sixington, and Elwe independence partisans in Raith Immel. Yet many ordinary citizens hope that the partnership between General Pahath-Moab and the new King will usher in an era of peace and prosperity.

[Late Roman Empire]

To the rulers and people of the various nations of the region and the world,

We share your considerable anxiety with respect to the many issues concerning the restoration of full Gavinian sovereignty, and quite candidly do not grasp why the Cookish are being so obtuse. Then again, this is the sort of high-handed conduct that doomed the Dogniak Pact.

The Cookish protection of Gavinium Magnus was never intended, as we understood it, to be permanent or a form of annexation into some vast Cookish Empire. It was temporary and conditional Cookish 'oversight' or 'supervision' of the Gavinian reformation and reconstruction process, which has frankly been less than well-managed. Their stewardship of Gavinium Magnus, for thus it has been seen by the Empire, has left much to be desired, and thus the Gavinians have every reason to resume their sovereignty under the very same monarch who petitioned for the protectorate to begin with.

What particularly concerns us is the use of Gavinians as cannon fodder for Cookish armies, to fill up gaps left by the bellicose and aggressive interventionism of the Cookish States. It would seem that this particular quarrel is a smokescreen to excuse the eventual conscription of Gavinians en masse, in spite of their traditional neutrality, and thus spare Cookish lives in the process. The Cookish seem to view Gavinium as one vast recruiting office for their armed forces, which are not being reduced, despite assurances to the contrary. Clearly, this war with Bratoslovoukia is an excuse to maintain a vast war machine and waste Gavinian lives as expendable in the process. Gavinians are dying to expand the Cookish Empire.

If this sounds familiar, it is because the Cookish have followed this expansionist path before. They have been forcibly expelled several times over the past fifty years or so from various countries, in their vain attempt to become the heart of the new Cornellian Empire. We hoped that Chancellor Soymer would indeed lead a new era, but too many holdovers from the old days have whispered poor counsel in his ear and encourage his own dreams of a place in the Sun.

Therefore, in the interests of indeed improving ties with all nations, including the Cookish, we urge the Chancellor to come to reasonable terms with the Gavinians and accept their sovereign right to self-rule on whatever terms can bring about the most advantageous relationship with the rest of the region and the world.

We wish to be friends with Soymer and the Cookish nation, but we must have our faith in them rewarded by goodwill. We await their tokens of solidarity and brotherhood, in making earnest congress with their neighbors and ourselves. Whatever the internal excesses and abuses of the King's continued tenure (now some six months along) of the Gavinian throne, it must be recalled that he remains the sole lawful ruler of Gavinium, with no provision for any constitutional alternative under its laws and traditions.

We urge all to follow after the things which make for peace, and are more than willing to contribute both words and deeds, such as financial and military aid, to secure a just and lasting peace for the region. Our forces in New Edom are now at the disposal of their Edomite hosts while the threat from the anarchist terrorists persists and we hereby offer then two legions of additional troops to deal with the Communists on Sixington, as well as authorizing the Edomites to dispatch up to half of the present Roman forces in New Edom to the peacekeeping mission in Gavinium Magnus as needed.

Peace, Prosperity, and Brotherhood for all nations.

In hoc signo vinces,
Imperator Caesar Valerianus Augustus

[Gavinium Magnus]

Gavinium Weekly Financier,
Renard Slepian, Senior Staff Writer

"In the interests of a peaceful and universally recognized restoration of our proper and natural sovereignty, we are prepared to make some sensible concessions to those who, whether justly or not, fear that we might become despots, though we have been rather mild and moderate hitherto during our reign," His Majesty, Maximian II, King of Gavinium Magnus has announced in an exclusive interview with this writer.

The King sat rather comfortably on his couch, with his royal sister HRH Princess Desiree beside him, in a gesture that left no doubt that they were merely brother and sister, not a couple as with prior royals. Also seated nearby were Count Rupert de Mark, once more wearing the Chancellor's badge, along with his wife, the former Princess Natalie, now Countess Natalie Sila-de Mark. On the other side was HRH Prince Mithra, who has been appointed Minister of War.

I. The Cookish States must agree to withdraw most of their military presence from Gavinium Magnus, aside from whatever bases are agreed upon by mutual negotiations.
II. Gavinium Magnus will forever renounce the right to produce or purchase weapons of mass destruction.
III. The Allied States of New Edom will be authorized to make weapons inspections, being a neutral third party.
IV. Gavinium Magnus will hereby join the Cornellian Peace Organization as a full member.
V. All remaining stocks of chemical weapons are to be surrendered to the Cornellian Peace Organization for destruction.
VI. Negotiations involving miscellaneous Gavinian/Padrian/Cookish disputes will be referred to the Allied States of New Edom as a neutral, third-party arbiter.
VII. A freely elected National Assembly will serve as a consultative body, with the ability to gradually increase its authority to the level of a national legislature, albeit only with the consent of the King and the cabinet. In the meantime, the King and cabinet will govern by decree.
VIII. The bans on Roman Catholicism, Christian Science, and Jehovah's Witnesses are hereby abolished.
IX. Any disputes with the Reformed Theocracy of Macureus and the Shrailleeni Empire must be arbitrated by the Allied States of New Edom, especially those regarding matters of religion.
X. Any disputes concerning Magism, either with Adiron or Arbites, must be arbitrated by the Allied States of New Edom.
XI. All nations must recognize, forthwith, without any further preconditions, the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Gavinium Magnus.
XII. The line of succession shall permanently exclude any issue of Chancellor Count Rupert de Mark and Countess Natalie Sila-de Mark.
XIII. The judiciary will be independent of the Crown and the cabinet, with its membership chosen by a special convocation of legal experts, on a permanent basis.
XIV. The temporary code of laws will be formed by the royal edicts, as issued by King and cabinet. It will be revised as necessary by acts of the future national legislature when that is empowered to do so.
XV. The heiress presumptive will remain HRH Princess Desiree, with succession to be altered upon her marriage, so as to avoid any personal unions with other nations.

The King inferred that guaranteeing that a woman would remain in the line of succession was a subtle olive branch to the Shrailleeni Empire, given their apparent, albeit misguided belief in female superiority. He pointed out that Gavinium gave the sexes the true equality that "other nations only pretend to guarantee, and always has. No one can claim that we are matriarchal or patriarchal, or that we oppress either sex. In our view, both matriarchy and patriarchy are inherently oppressive and contrary to the virtue of justice."

The thrust of that comment seemed to be aimed at implying that the motive behind the bans on the matriarchal cults was to prevent the rise of sexual discrimination and inequity. After all, any massive changes in the social and family dynamic would dramatic alter Gavinian culture, which prides itself on its insistence upon merit. The point of such religious restrictions was evidently to force negotiations that would secure an agreement not to attempt to subvert Gavinian principles with the Shrailleeni ideas of what constituted "enlightenment" and not to proselytize members of other religions, especially the dominant Society of Light and Justice (also known as Luminarians), our national faith which preaches the full and unconditional equality of the sexes.

It remains to be seen whether or not our neighbors are truly as "enlightened" as they claim to be. Thankfully, at least, the Edomites, Romans, and Tartarians seem to have seen reason and favored a peaceful solution instead of seeking to bully us as a nation. While we are historically neutral, we are no pacifists and don't respond well to attempts to coerce or intimidate us. The King has made a sensible offer, which constitutes neither appeasement, surrender, nor arrogance or dismissal.

Many nations in this region could learn from his noble wisdom, this King of ours.

Renard Slepian is a Senior Staff Writer for the Gavinium Weekly Financier

[Southern Patriots]

BBC Southron
The National News in the Dominion

---

War games set to begin
January 31, 2013

Operation FORGER '13 military exercises in the Vergil Islands begin this week.

Fort Burgundy is home to the Princess Patricia's Southron Light Infantry (PPSLI) regiment's Regional Exercise Center, a facility used to prepare troopers for a wide range of defence situations and threats. As called the REC, it is virtually a small city unto itself that is capable of basing multiple divisions of troops. Many of the barracks and other structures date back decades and have been undergoing a renovation for the purpose of FORGER '13. The sectors of the fort provide space for the vast array of vehicles, equipment, and gear that each division will need for the training period.

Public affairs officer Lt. Colonel Art Gerold would not specify on the determined length of FORGER, only that both the time, environment, and amenities (or lack thereof) of the exercise and Fort Burgundy had been chosen to generate all possible confusion and problems. "While the average trooper is worrying about where he has to march and what they'll do when they get there, we want his officers and their officers to have their minds on the status of supply flow and other logistical concerns. Battles are simple. Logistics is not," said the colonel.

The Fifteenth's PA office declined to comment on the percentage of the army that has landed, but did confirm that enough divisions and support elements were active and billeted to activate the clock on the exercise. Units not assigned to the first iteration of FORGER at Fort Burgundy would be provided support and performing other tasks and drills at the Vergil Territorial Army Depot on Ioannis. At the Depot Legionnaires will interact with Territorial forces for training purposes and preparations for REC.

Concerns over a possible regional reaction have so far been quiet. There had been earlier belief that the local Cornellian states would view the large transfer of military personnel with suspicion, or even outright condemnation. When asked on the matter, General Albert Foley was clear. "The locals have no reason to fear us, as we have not given them a reason. I am told that recent diplomatic initiatives have done well in stabilizing relations with the natives."

Matters closer to home for the local government in the Vergil Islands, namely Patriciastadt, have not been as positive. Upon arrival, the 406th Territorial Vervang-Division performed an impromptu march through the city to vehicle staging grounds nearby. The 406th was mostly met with cheers and celebration, save for a small number of incidents purported to have been carried out by youths of mixed heritages. Calling themselves "Vergil natives," these teens and young adults attempted to slow the parade with sit-down protests, jeers, and even blocking the route with an automobile. Constabulary handled the matter, though, and no one was harmed.

The 406th Territorial Vervang-Division is now on-station at Fort Burgundy, reportedly completing reception. Tomorrow will mark the formal beginning of the military exercises of FORGER '13, pitting two brigades of the 406th against mixed "Insurgency" forces staffed by the PPSLI. Aircraft from the HMSS Duke William Friedle carrier group, seconded to accompany the Fifteenth Army, will provide support and simulate air-ground attacks. An emphasis for the first series of exercises has been placed on training troopers to call in accurate aerial support-fire.

"Mistakes will be made, no doubt," commented one PPSLI captain who declined to be named. "But better here at the REC, than out on the battlefield."

[Common Territories]

TECT Prepares to Assist CPO in Gavinium Magnus

---

Royal News


(An IAF C-10 Minotaur being loaded with supplies at Palms Air Force Base, Franklin State.)


TECT Prepares for Mission in Gavinium Magnus
Jan 31, 2013

Days after the TECT imperial government announced it would support Gavinium Magnus in its struggle for fully recognized independence from the Cookish States, the Imperial Air Force and Navy are now preparing for their mission in country. According to the government, "TECT recognizes Gavinium Magnus as an independent nation free to make its own choices when concerning state and military matters. Furthermore. An Independent nation has the right to decide its own future, especially when the only thing holding the two parties together is a protection agreement. TECT will support the Gavinium government in any way possible, from food aid to boots on the ground." said a spokesman to the imperial Viceroy of Franklin State. As this letter hits the news wire, the government has confirmed that air assets are being mobilized for the support mission and two assault ships (along with their escorts) have been dispatched to the Gehennian-Tartarus coast to provide further support.

(Imperial Army soldiers preparing to head to the assault group.)

TECT has promised to provide much support for the Gavinium government in any needs it may have, offered to assist the CPO in its mission, and any other needs that Gavinium Magnus could possibly require. Some however are curious as to why TECT is being so supportive let alone getting involved with a nation that it has no previous diplomatic contact with. Two of the main rumors floating around is the TECT government wish to spread its influence in the country and the region more. Another is that the government is working to counter the Cookish in this effort. What ever the reason, TECT has put up its support for the Gavinium government and its king.

[The Cookish States]

Cookish News and Happenings

Traitors!

TECT forces move on Gavinium Magnus for Sloppy Seconds!

-GAVINIUM MAGNUS

Mere hours after the Cookish peacefully relinquished claim to Gavinium Magnus under very easy terms, the TECT has announced that it will be occupying the nation under the shroud of the CPO. This weakens the Progressive platform which includes a petition for membership of that organization. Nationalists rally in Cookeville, while Charles Hash'nt (Congressional Minority Leader) argues the case on the pulpit. He exclaimed just minutes ago..

"The CPO, while good in intention, has become the means of a few nations to occupy the lands of another. Watch closely, for I can promise you that we will never see these troops leave! Even worse, the TECT has gone completely behind our backs and pounced upon the nation with the help of New Edom and the Romans!"

He neglected to mention how the fledgling nation also received the good will of the enemy of the TECT and the Cookish, Bratoslouvakia. Also, all TECT mercenaries are being removed from battle and into the TECT, with payment being refused, as well as the revocation of all military support to and from the colony.

Bratoslouvakia is notorious for their nuclear attack against Coalition vessels, as well as war crimes within the States and abroad. The Nationalists are posed to win a great number of seats in February if the international community continues to spit in the eye of the Chancellor, who many have contended is simply lacking in will for the job.

"We'll have the Chancellorship in 2014 at this rate."

That was Marcellia Congressman Damon Shirks, on his potential run for Chancellor. Nationalists and Progressives alike have been calling their Congressmen to the point that their phone lines have shut down, it appears as though the entire nation is unhappy.

In better news, the Bratoslouvakian offensive has stalled at the borders of the Capital city through fierce Shrailleeni and Cookish resistance. The men of the 32nd have fought valiantly since the opening days of the war, and moral is at a steady high. The masses of soldiers laying behind the first line is startling to see, and it's becoming more and more clear that the Bratoslouvakians have not got much time left in the Cookish States. Sergeant Cameron Forks, of the 27th Infantry, could be quoted as yelling...

"They haven't got more than a month of fight left in 'em. Soon, we'll be bombin' Bratvit Bay and bangin' out rounds into their Benny heads. We've got this."

Clear confidence. Many Nationalists rally around Forks' words, citing that the Chancellor could learn much from spinal growth. Progressives however, continue to wave the stick of civility, reminding the Hash'nt and his cronies that there is a very large and angry world outside of our borders.

-Gabrielle Hinton is a reporter for CN&H

[Common Territories]

TECT's Harsh Response to Cookish States

---

Royal News


(C.L.I. artillery team stationed between Ciudad Contierra and Cookeville days prior to deportation.)


C.L.I. Set to File Lawsuit against the Cookish Government Among TECT's Harsh Punishments Being Implimented
Feb 1, 2013

As the Brato-Cookish War draws out and Brato military forces push their way north, the Cookish States decides to remove allied soldiers near the time they will really be tested. The Cookish States' recent decision to remove and than deport C.L.I. forces stationed in the rear lines of the ground war came as a surprise, especially for the operators down there. "They informed us that we were fired and demanded to pack up and leave." says Lt. Francesca of a C.L.I. battery after being removed from front line operations. "They barely gave us time to pack up. Their warnings seemed to come as threats of violence if we didn't follow their orders. I even heard some guys were forcefully removed from country. I didn't know why until reaching Franklin State of the reason let alone if I was going to get my participation pay for the job. I got my annual check and it was a lot less than it should be with my involvement." he continued. The Cookish government responded to TECT's announcement that it pledged its assistance to Gavinium Magnus in both aid and pledging ground troops to assist in the CPO's peacekeeping forces. The response was a bashing on Cookish news sources, both internet and television, and the cancellation, deportation, and possible confiscation of some weapons believed to be owned by C.L.I. itself. Punishment and a proper response by the TECT government has already been announced to Royal News moments ago. But the other big story today is the lawsuit now being filled against the Cookish Government by Commoner League Incorporated.

(C.L.I. spokesman giving public announcement earlier today.)

A C.L.I. press release earlier today made public the company's intention to file lawsuit against the Cookish government if the Time cost price isn't paid and a check for any property belonging to C.L.I. forces that were deported. The claims of possible "theft", illegal deportation, and "breach of Terms & Conditions" were thrown into the fray of the announcement. "It is with anger and outrage that C.L.I. reports to the nation and world that the Cookish Government has broken terms of their agreement with us. The Cookish are responding to our home government's decision to support the nation of Gavinium Magnus in its choice for independence, which in fact has nothing to do with C.L.I. or it's operations. This is proof of a Cookish attack on the TECT economy by targeting businesses of our home country. We plan to file a lawsuit on the Cookish Government for their breach of the C.L.I. 'Terms & Conditions' and are pleading the TECT government to punish the Cookish States for these and other actions against them and their country." said the spokesman in part of his speech to the press. TECT is in fact planning its own response in terms that will deal a blow to Cookish-TECT relations.


In a press release hours ago the TECT government responded to the Cookish States with harsh words and actions. "A nation that promotes democracy and rights of the people have surprised us this week. The outright insults and disgraceful comments coming from officials and news media are saddening. How dare they declare us as being traitors and wanting sloppy seconds! We have only helped them in the hopes of helping the region. We've traded with them, opened good relations, treated them like friends, and have even entered a war with them to assist in their national interests. How are we re-payed? Insults, deportations, and economic warfare, that's how. Well two can play at this game. If you want to make an enemy of the Common than you have made the first steps to it Cookish Government. By order of his majesty the Emperor of TECT, sanctions have been ordered to be placed on Cookish products of all types and closed borders to Cookish citizens. The deal to re-fuel your jets in our airports has been terminated, please inform your pilots to avoid TECT airspace for their safety. The small population of Cookish citizens are being gathered up and deported as we speak, those with visas and who were granted dual citizenship a like are also being deported. Your embassy in our country has been closed and your staff also deported, our staff have also been evacuated from our embassy in your nation for fear of your future aggression and the security risk from protesters outside it. If you wage economic warfare on us than so shall we to you. If you wish to deport citizens who work in your country than we shall deport your citizens too. Until a public apology from your highest office is made public, payment you owe to the TECT company C.L.I. is payed, and the right of the people of Gavinium Magnus, an independent nation, are given the right to vote their referendum on independence, we will not lift our punishments towards the Cookish States." said Congressman Scotsman of Franklin State.

[The Cookish States]

Cookish News and Happenings

The Other Cheek

CIUDAD CONTIERRA-

Today, the Chancellor has let out a less than brief statement regarding the TECT Mercenary scandal. He'd previously hoped to let the military leaders and the State Department carry out the necessary procedures, but neglected to get directly involved because of other issues, such as the war and ongoing negotiations with New Edom and Gavinium Magnus.

"Firstly, Common allegations of weapon confiscation are blatantly false. If they can show us records of any missing munitions, I will personally allocate Treasury dollars to pay for that debt. I believe the State Departments refusal of payment to the mercenaries are misguided, they are not responsible for their governments actions and should not be held accountable. However, they did not execute their full deployment seeing as the TECT, having let an entire Bratoslouvakian fleet free, are a national security threat and so any Common troops had to be removed. They will be paid for the time they've served. The lawsuit will be carried out through a neutral court system such as that of Wielkilas, Arbirtes, or Zanborian.

As for the deportation of foreign dignitaries, this is a child's action. Refusing to communicate with someone at cause of minor grievances is entirely irresponsible and downright dangerous. Never in the history of the Cookish States have we removed an embassy or its staff from the nation. Even during war with New Edom, their ambassadors and even their guards remained safe. The rounding up and deportation of the some 1,300 Cookish citizens is intolerable. You cannot simply purge a people you disagree with. We implore the TECT too withdraw its deportations, and to not cease communications with our government. Trade may be cut, lawsuits may be filed, and people may even be uprooted from their homes in Common territory, but by God may we maintain communication."

The statement is the first we've heard of the Chancellor, who has been surveying Cookish and Shrailleeni lines, awarding medals for bravery, and giving heartening speeches to our boys on the front. He neglected to mention Gavinium Magnus entirely, when questioned, he said simply..

"We declared days ago that Gavinium Magnus is no longer any part of this nation. That issue is moot to the public."

It has also become a widely popular belief that the TECT is using the CPO as a platform to occupy Gavinium Magnus and meddle in its newborn government. Most politicians agree that this is a very likely possibility, but that there is little the Cookish can do except call the offense out. Secretary of State Tarah Messina has let slip that she will be petitioning the CPO to disallow TECT troops into that nation, or to at least curb the numbers.

"I'd like to say that during the summit in Mejez I will be bringing up the concerns of our citizens regarding Common deployments to that area. Also on the list are these punishments that the Empire is referring to. I, like you, do not understand what they mean. Ojalá, I will find the answer."

These "punishments" declared by the TECT are truly confounding, why is it that a nation which we trade literally no goods with would dictate that cutting off said nothing would be a punishment? Why is a lawsuit worth a measly nine digit number considered a punishment? The country holds no leverage, and yet is pretending they wield a crowbar capable of uprooting our economy. Clearly this is an overreaction, though the folks at CN&H are flattered that a simple article reached the ears of the Common government, and resulted in their defeat in the war of words.

-Charley Graham is a reporter for CN&H

[New Macureus]

Deleted.

[Macureus]

The Arod Chronicle,
Stefa Macan

In response to the rumored brain drain, notably causing one of the brightest new prodigies, Idar Calin, to renounce his Macurean citizenship (his IQ of 186 is the highest documented one in Macurean history), the Grand Coven has approved a number of "reform" measures, after consulting the Oracles.

I. The National Education Bureau will actively investigate and penalize cases of known discrimination against male students in secondary schools. No measures to harass or retaliate against male valedictorians and other excellent male students will be tolerated.
2. Men will be allowed to serve as law clerks and paralegals for the first time.
3. Men can now serve as college administrators, such as deans and chancellors, not merely department chairmen and provosts.
4. Men are to be awarded equal patents, trademarks, copyrights, and research grants.

It is hoped that these actions will show the dedication of the Grand Coven and the Oracles of the Faith to serve all Macureans, not merely one sex. The idea that men are feeling oppressed or stifled by their government is a deep concern, and we pray that the men of our land will come to meet us halfway, by not deserting their native country over a few mistakes. After all, mothers commit errors now and then, but sons do not reject them.

Stefa Macan

[Common Territories]

Please note Cooke that it is physically impossible to know of a fleet release that neither has happened nor that it was discussed in a top secret meeting. No one but me IC wise of this.

Edit: Now Cooke this news post and yours from before hand cannot know of the release as it happened very shortly before.

TECT President Responds to Cookish Chancellor

---

Royal News


(President Mark Hoover making a stern speech early Saturday morning to the Cookish government and other involved parties.)


C.L.I. Lawsuit in Possible Dropping Meanwhile President Speaks to the Nation and Cookish Chancellor
Feb 2, 2013

President Mark Hoover of TECT, who's nearing his last months in office, addresses the nation and responds to the recent press release of the Cookish Chancellor. The president discussed C.L.I.'s lawsuit, relations, contact, response to Cookish media and officials, and held up most of TECT's 'Punishment Acts' that were enacted yesterday in a landslide vote during a emergency gathering and voting in Congress. Such provisions include defending the C.L.I. lawsuit, the deportation of Cookish Embassy personnel and other Cookish citizens, and trade sanctions on the Cookish State's trade with TECT. The President reached a long line of topics during his speech.

We thank the Chancellor for issuing what apology that was there, however we cannot end our retaliation until the full terms are met. I wish to start off with the C.L.I. portion of this incident. Having the dialog of recent messages with me and having discussed this with C.L.I. CEO Brent Tolbert late last night, I can confirm that C.L.I. thanks the Chancellor for its...... somewhat apology. After his order to investigate equipment that is missing, it was determined that equipment that is missing, such as artillery pieces and a few vehicles are currently still in the process of still being shipped by air out of the Cookish States. It is believed that the delay was caused by the current conflict there and we apologize for jumping to allegations that they were stolen. However, C.L.I. is still in response to its contract suing the Cookish government until it is confirmed that payment has been delivered for its "Time Length" price of their contract.

I quote Mr. Tolbert in saying the following, "Even if personnel did not finish their mission, which of course is only because the Cookish deported our personnel by illegal means of the contract with C.L.I. and the Cookish government. They broke the 'Terms & Conditions' of their contract and for ordering of C.L.I. personnel, unless full payment for the job has been confirmed and delivered, C.L.I. will continue its lawsuit on the Cookish Government in TECT Federal Court for numerous charges including slave labor and numerous other charges. We are however dropping the Theft charges as for the obvious reason that no equipment has been discovered to be stolen. We hope this lawsuit does not come to light of the court room but if it does, the Cookish will be punished in TECT court of law for breaking international & TECT law. Unfortunately for them we are the ones suing and im pretty sure they don't get to choose where they are sued and how much we are going to take from them as reparations." as so said by Mr. Tolbert in a message he produced for this occasion. Let it be known that if this lawsuit dose come to light and the Cookish government refuses to take part in this lawsuit, or doesn't follow its order in judging, Cookish government officials will be marked as international criminals by the TECT government.

Our 'Punishments Act' simply put to large scale what the Cookish did to our citizens who work as foreign workers. We deported these small few people yes but we do not intend on be ending discussing information with the Cookish government. We simply evacuated our embassy in both protest and for security reasons. We may still communicate through diplomatic channels when necessary. Now I would like to point to the Cookish Secretary of State Tarah Messina that we will continue our obligations to assist their government in any way possible. The CPO has accepted our offer and requested peacekeepers to which we gladly offered to help provide. Let I remind her as a top diplomat should know that the 15,000 TECT Imperial Army personnel going to the nation of Gavinium Magnus are not there to "occupy" the nation and that the CPO will have more than twice the amount of ground personnel there. Accusing us of occupying a nation when CPO members are sending twice what TECT has pledged is ridiculous. Now to personally flatter the CN&H news company even further. You sir Charley Graham and other staff of CN&H should feel ashamed and embarrassed for your statements. You do not even know your country's trade partners let alone what they trade. I hold here in my hand a copy of the trade forms we hold with the Cookish States. So unless our oil products and minerals are literally zero, than I guess your the ones who lost this war of words.

[Wielkilas]

Pierwszy Wyraz

Prime Minister and First Lady Visit Gökşir
Talking Trade, Defense, and Seeing the Sights
by Jan Maliszewska

Poésy and Licinius

Ezbakur, Gökşir — Early yesterday morning, Prime Minister Poésy and his wife, former model and current musician, Angelina Licinius stepped onto the runway in the national capital of Gökşir, Erzbakur. The ministerial couple was greeted by President Aigul Ünal and Prime Minister Efe Sezer with much fanfare from the local populace. This trip comes as the final move in solidifying trade treaties, defense treaties, and the increased sale of military equipment to the nation that has seen amazing economic growth in the past ninety years.


For those of you unfamiliar with the history of Gökşir over the last ninety years, here is brief history lesson. In 1921 Gökşir was emerging as an economically strong nation with seemingly endless potential. It transitioned at a remarkable pace following the increase in trade and the respite gained from centuries of conflict offered by the collapse of the Cornellian state. Industry and infrastructure expanded with the aid of an emergent and well educated middle class. And at the moment Gökşir was poised to take its place as one of the economic wonders of the Post-Cornellian world, complete economic collapse and a brutal, but short civil saw decades of economic progress vanish in the course of a year. Following the civil war, the power vacuum was filled by the victorious national armed forces and so began nearly seventy years of ironclad military rule which ended in 1991 when the last ruling council stepped down in favor of an elected civilian government.

Now more than twenty years after the transition of power, our prime minister is poised to solidly cement the nation of Wielkilas as the greatest economic and military ally of Gökşir, a process that began with the government of Prime Minister Bartosz Grabski during the collapse and following civil conflict of 1921. Among the treaties being finalized and signed is a mutual defense and military access treaty, the final form of the Emin Akol Freedom of Trade Pact, and of course the Grabski Agreement which gives the green light for the construction of half a dozen Wielkilasin airbases across Gökşir and the full return of full Gökşir sovereignty to the port city of Niziantep.

Treaties aside, the ministerial couple will be taking a two week tour of Gökşir to take in the varied people and landscape of the nation that once saw itself on the brink of complete disintegration. The couple will start their tour in the Gökşir capital and work their way across the nation from the Gultai Mountains to the wide expanses of the northern plains that are the home of the various and proud Katakh tribes and clans, the southern home of the centuries gone Ertuğrul Sultanate, and many other important locations.

Left, Prime Minister Efe Sezer of Gökşir; Rigth, President of Gökşir, Aigul Ünal

Of course, some outspoken members of the Sejm question the timing of the prime ministers visit considering the continuing conflict instigated by the Cookish and Bratoslovoukian states and the controversial move for independence orchestrated by the recently re-enthroned monarch of Gavinium Magnus. If the prime minister has anything to say regarding the concerns of these members of the Sejm, he has not let on. Poésy simply stated in an interview on his arrival in Gökşir, “We have long been friends of the people of Gökşir and now is the perfect time to finally solidify this friendship and move forward together into the bright future that beckons our two nations.” And so, despite the questions of some, our two nations will be linked closer than ever before with the visit of the ministerial couple.

[Deadora]

The Deadora Collection

Return to Glory!
Esteemed Empress turns Deadora into a Nuclear Power
Ennoia D'lenna

Triadenon, Deadora— Matriarch Empress Thrall once again carved her name into Deadoran history when she revealed the existence of Deadora's first ever functional nuclear weapon. The nation was alight with excitement and pride as our young Empress appeared on television screens from Triadenon to Tull, triumphantly declaring an end to a time where Deadora would be at the mercy of the more barbaric nuclear states.


Dubbed "Project Stratosphere", the effort to birth Deadora's nuclear arsenal began in the last weeks of 2009, and was located north of Tridenon, deep within the rugged Nadir Mountains. The project attracted many of Deadora's premier scientists, and their quick, efficient work only goes to show that it isn't only our girls in uniform that help make this nation great. While always a priority, the project gained a new sense of urgency following the premature use of nuclear weapons in the Brato-Cooke war. "The behaviour of Bratoslovoukia passed beyond the lines of irresponsibility and into full out recklessness." Vannessa Illeria, project head, stated, before continuing. "It is clear that Deadora cannot even rely on the good sense of patriarchal societies, and must be proactive in ensuring our own safety."

Internal Security soldiers.

A small contingent of anti-nuclear dissidents opposed to the welfare of Deadora did stage a protest in Triadenon soon after the initial announcement. Internal Security reacted promptly however, and many of the participants, mostly male, were apprehended before the display could degenerate into the sort of masculine violence it was likely to become. While no executions have been sentenced, public floggings are being scheduled. Citizens should contact their local broadcasters for more information.