Baptism of Fire 45 Rosters/RP/Scores Thread (IC)

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Check it out: a K&P cutoff that's actually on time for once!

Scores for my region's octofinals will be up soon!

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Round of Sixteen Scores, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu Bracket

Azrael 1–0 Sjovenia
Bruyn 1–3 Oliveland
Zona Azul 1–0 Swalenia
Vettrera 0–2 Armed Bears

The K&P quarterfinals are thus:
Azrael vs. Oliveland
Zona Azul vs. Armed Bears

[Armed Bears]

(Marra SunDaughter) “Heyyah, Surra.”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Heyyah, Marra. You smell slightly worried, hwhat’s up?”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Hwell, I’ve just heard from back home. It seems that after we sent that message back about arranging a blessing rite for the Yesopalithans BI6 decided to find out a bit more about that country… and it turns out, from hwhat one of my cousins tells me, that they might not be quite as nice on the whole as we were presuming from having met their Human footballers…”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Oh?”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Ayyuh. Apparently they have some kinds of Undead as members of their society, too…”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Urrgah!
“Hwell, the Seven Holy Helpers seemed willing to bless their football team anyhows, and it’s not as though one can fool spirits of such power, so evidently They don’t mind hwhatever the situation actually is over there…”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Hr’rmm…
“Or maybeso they consider Yesopalitha to be the lesser of two evils compared to Wight and were trying to help us by influencing the probabilities about hwhich of those two countries’ teams we might have to face if we can get through successfully to the third-place playoffs or even to the actual Cup Final itself?”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Hr’rmm, maybeso.
“Anyhows, we’ll need to win our quarter-finals game before we hrreally have that possibility to consider.”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Ayyuh, that’s so, for true.
“So, hwhat do we actually know about Zona Azul anyhow? Apparently their players are a collection of strange beings from a wide range of different Peoples, and even from quite a few different worlds… You have tapes from their earlier games to show us, maybeso?”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Ayyuh, that I have: In fact, viewing those tapes is hwhat I plan to have our girls do tomorrow morning… and then we’ll see how many of you reach the same conclusion that I did about our opponents’ greatest weakness…”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Oh? That being?”

(Surra Rueth’hron) “Hwell, a lot of their players have physical advantages over humans or even over us, for true, and some of them seem to be quite skilled… but it looks to me as though — probably because they’re from such a mixture of origins, and maybeso also to some extent because apparently their players only met each other for the first time shortly before they came to this tournament, too — they aren’t as good as they “should” be about combining that individual prowess into actual teamwork yet…”

(Marra SunDaughter) “Hr’rmm, that could be a useful edge for us if we can work out to exploit it effectively enough, for true…”

[Wight]

.

[Yesopalitha]

Please do note that I had planned this to be a two-part RP, so here is the first part.

From the Yesopalithan Sports Network, Facts and Opinions Only

Wight 1, Yesopalitha 0 (AET)

The Unbidden of Wight and Yesopalitha faced off in Astograth, pitting two forces against each other. It was an absolute war, with Wight prevailing when they scored in injury time of extra time. We caught up with the players afterward... Here is a recorded footage of the team.

---

After a hard-fought game, the Yesopalithan players gather in a huddle. They are all soaked in sweat, and clearly exhausted - yet they all have determined looks on their faces. Jack Jones steps into the middle.

Jack Jones: I have to tell you guys, first and foremost: We have nothing to be ashamed of today. We played a very good team till the end, and they were just better than us in the final minutes. We dealt with the loss of our entire coaching staff and prevailed to show Wight that we can play. I am proud of all of you, I am proud to have played with you. Do not be ashamed of what happened today. Instead, be proud.

The players nodd. Hilary Vander Rox speaks next.

Hilary Vander Rox: To have done what we did only a few days after such a loss is remarkable. We weren't afraid of the players from Wight; we showed plenty of heart, and I believe that Coach Mitchell and Wallenberg would be proud of what we did today.

The players bow their heads at the mention of their Coaches. The funeral is to be held in a few days back home in Yesopalitha.

Nadya Dostoevich: So, what's going to happen to us now?

It is, in fact, Nike Casanova that steps up to answer.

Nike Casanova: The Yesopalitha Sports Committee just released a news statement saying that from this point onward, all sports teams will have no less than one third and no more than two thirds players be Unbidden. Also, they stated that the Bidden races will all participate. This will be the last time a lot of us play, for this point on, they're going to have Elves, Dwarfs, and other races, too... I think that Hilary and Jane are safe, and maybe Jack as well, but everyone else...

There is hushed silence in the circle. Ishmael Van Tupa raises his hand. Hilary Vander Rox gestures to him.

Ishmael Van Tupa: So that'll be one Treefolk, one Beastling, one Changeling, one Dwarf, one Elf... and three humans? That's eight out of fifteen... No, not even all of Jack, Jane, and Hilary are going to make it... I do have one thing to say though... Even if it was my last time playing with you guys, it was an honor, a joy, and a privilege. I learned a ton. Maybe I can still be on the U-21 team...

Jack Jones: No one knows of the future. All I know is this was one heck of an experience. We showed the world again that Yesopalitha is a force to be reckoned with. And no matter which of us are on that national team, when teams play us they will be wary of us.

Jane Vander Rox: I hope we make it to the main World Cup, whomever we shall be.

The team gathers in a group hug.

There is a sense of finality in the air, yet no player seems dejected. They know what they have accomplished, and they are proud of it. It is a good day to be a Yesopalithan. A few days later, they fly back home...
Note: Part 2 to follow soon.

[Zona Azul]

"Caution Deckmib... this time you cannot be discrete by transforming youself into another person in case you're caught, and you don't have the power to be invisible. Therefore, no one can see you messing with the contracts."

That was the advice, a completely predictable advice and one that Deckmib didn't want at all as he knew of that detail but anyway he was forced to hear that because it was from his boss who he always hated but could do nothing about that... erm, I mean that was the advice of Waolloch, before Art went to Kavanagh's room in order to take a look at the contracts. As much as he was allowed to use the room to handle the players' requests, he shouldn't be looking at the contracts' drawer, and if discovered he couldn't explain why he was doing that. Since all the Zona Azul members must be paranoid of the possible action of the Total Police, as they have something to hide, they would surely suspect him and then the mission would have failed. So, he had to be discrete.

After entering the room still using the disguise of the wooden-bodied Humus, he took at a look at the cameras... he even though of transforming himself in Crystal Kavanagh, but unless she had some serious memory problems she would remember that she wasn't in the room at that time... however, on the other hand it would be interesting to use another disguise to enter the room, so if the cameras weren't well disabled, the person spotted wouldn't be the body he was using to infiltrate the team. So, he transformed himself in Emperor Boston, and walked into the room.

"Well, these cameras are tricky to disable... let me try."

Deckmib tried. Not much more can be said about it, it was a fine attempt, but he couldn't know if that worked, it wasn't his specialty. Then he moved on, as Emperor Boston, to the drawers, taking the contract of the top earner, Hromdzitklecvau. After all, Deckmib had talked to him before, and discovered how much did he receive... five hundred thousand stellar lempeais, the currency used in Zona Azul deals, per match... however, his contract pointed that his salary was of seven hundred thousand stellar lempeais. Too much money, a contract not registered... all proving the act of tax evasion. So, the whole situation was clear: with the original contract at hands, he could accuse Zona Azul... but where could he find the contracts?

"Perhaps with her father... in his Zona Azul spaceport? I would need a new disguise for this. Maybe a celebrity, these pseudo-rich-businesspeople love to talk with celebrities... after all, he isn't the owner of Zona Azul, just the manager of a small spaceport... a celebrity will do."

"Well, I guess he won't believe if I transform myself in Alan Belmore or something like that..."

"...perhaps some rich general of a distant galaxy who has gone missing... with so many wars in this world, who knows."

Then, a voice from above came... actually, it was a voice from his internal communicator.

"Stop talking alone, Deckmib. There is a legendary football player whom we captured some years ago and disappeared with him due to debts with the Total Police. He was well-known for being a mercenary, so you can impersonate him and ask to be employed."

---

ZONA AZUL OFFICIAL MATCH ANNOUNCEMENT

The first knockout match of Zona Azul in the competition was against Swalenia, which had qualified in Group B, in the second place. However, their campaign so far was very good, and the aliens knew that they needed to be cautious. Luckily, such a versatile team is able to play in different strategies and, as much as the team tends to be more offensive, they adapted well to a defensive tactic in the crucial game. Biafra worked more as a strong defensive midfielder, helping Prlnin to control the opponent attacker. By the way, Prlnin was one of the key players of Zona Azul in the dispute, managing to enchant several players of the opposite squad with her beauty, at the point that in some moments they even passed the ball to her by mistake. With this, she was the one who started several counterattacks of Zona Azul, including the one that culminated with the goal scored by K-M'il, who is proving to be an useful football player, not just a criminal organization leader who forced his way into the team with threats... he was smart enough to place a lob shot when Turner tried to leave the goal to challenge him.

It is not that Swalenia didn't have chances to score. In fact, they had, and were able to pass through the Zona Azul defence some times. The martian Varginha wasn't in a good day, making several mistakes which had to be corrected by Aux Ditryx, who was really motivated... too much for the taste of the referee, who had to show her a yellow card after a ferocious tackle, which left the opponent attacker inconscious for some minutes. When he woke up, fully recovered, he had already been substituted. However, there were even moments in which Ditryx couldn't stop the Cook-Richards attacking duo, and then this mission went to Y'Gohlrodt... who was perfect. His arms seemed to cover the entire goal, as no shot passed... he blocked them with one, two or even eight hands if necessary in case of the most difficult finishes. The combination of his good performance and the lethal counterattack of Prlnin gave Zona Azul the victory.

Now comes the quarterfinals, with the competition getting really difficult. Now the Zona Azul squad faces the opposition of bears, which can prove an interesting match-up between teams with different styles. Most of Zona Azul players are really fast, such as the full-backs, and the team commonly plays with fast counterattacks, and quick movements. Bears Armed's players are in general, almost all of them, stronger than the Zona Azul ones, with the exceptions of Aux Ditryx and Biafra, who can be considered to be stronger than even the bears. In the aerial plays both teams seem to be good, with the flying ability of some Zona Azul players being a differential. But, even though Zona Azul has some unique players capable of things their opponents cannot do, the opposition has advantage in some fields, such as good team relationship and physical conditions. Zona Azul will have to overcome its main flaws in order to triumph this time.

[Astograth]

RP cut- off for the Astograth region quarterfinals.

[Yesopalitha]

Freedom's Altar, Yesopalitha

The Jumbo Jet Plane gracefully landed in the Tagawachi Airport in Freedom's Altar. The weather was nice for once, with the sun majestically shining in between the clouds, casting its rays to the spectacle below. Fifty of Yesopalitha's Honor Guard awaited the plane, and after it finished its landing procedures, created a lane with a row of soldiers in each side. These Honor Guard represented all the major races of Yesopalitha - Treefolk, Changelings, Beastlings, Dwarfs, Humans, Elves, Vampires, Werewolves, Orcs, Goblins, Trolls, Wraiths, and Demons.

When the main door of the plane opened, the first one down the stairs was Hilary Vander Rox, clad in a stunning white dress. Her team followed, all dressed in spotless white. The players had been told to bring white attire in case they needed it; they hadn't known that they would need it for this purpose, but it would do. Eleven members got off the plane. The Honor Guard raised their ceremonial rifles up high above their heads, forming a roof above the path.

Then, Jack Jones, Jane Vander Rox, Nadya Dostoevich, and Ishmael Van Tupa exited the plane. They were clad in black, with a pin of the Yesopalithan National Flag pinned to their chests. They carried with them two glass-covered caskets with bodies wrapped in Yesopalithan flags.

The players slowly marched two by two with Hilary leading the way and the four coffin-bearers following the rear. The Honor Guard stood at attention.

Then, a lady stepped into view. One-fifth Elf, one-fifth Human, one-fifth Vampire, one-fifth Werewolf, and one-fifth Wraith, Nirdasil, the Holy Crusader of Zaiden, looked stunning in a royal purple gown. She had a solemn look on her face, yet her beauty was graceful. The purple hue seemed to compliment her dark-tanned skin, and she had just let her hair flow down to her waist.

At the appearance of Nirdasil, the Honor Guard did an about-face to face their Supreme Commander. The players stopped, and awaited her to speak. There were news cameras from a distance, recording the entire ceremony for the viewers back home, as well as crowds listening over the loudspeaker about a hundred yards away. The flagpole at the airport had been lowered to half-mast, as had every other flag in the country of Yesopalitha.

"We are here today to celebrate the lives of Scott Damian Mitchell and Nicholas Dimitri Wallenberg," Nirdasil began, "Let it be known that they were two men who did great services for their country in the realm of sports, and that they will be solely missed."

She paused for effect and emphasis, and then continued, "Scott Damian Mitchell was born in Freedom's Altar. He graduated from Freedom's Altar University, and then became the main spokesperson for the voice of Yesopalithan Soccer. He was the Soccer coach for the Yesopalithan Oxen Cup 14 team who contributed to winning that competition that was held in Qazox. He was known for his ingenuity in halftime coaching changes, and for his ability to relate to players. Then, he was the Head Coach for the Baptism of Fire team that recently finished in the Top 16 after losing to a very good Wight team in the Round of 16. Scott is survived by his wife, Judy, and their two young boys, Thomas and Eric. Thomas is turning heads as a young soccer player - perhaps one day, he will honor his Father's memory."

There was a round of applause for Scott "Scotty" Mitchell, for he was well known in Yesopalitha as a humorous man who really cared for his players. Nirdasil raised a hand, and the crowd quieted.

She spoke, "Nicholas Dimitri Wallenberg had a rough childhood. His parents passed away when he was young, and he saw his sister succumb to leukemia when she was only twelve. However, instead of despairing, he devoted his life to becoming successful and helping others. He became the head coach for the U-21 National Team, advancing to the Round of 16 before losing to Erathore in PK's. Nicholas was known for his hard work ethic, as well as being a soft man under his hard appearance. His players say of him, 'He was like a drill sergeant, except after a hard workout, he'd ask you how your life was...' He didn't marry, nor had any children, but he will be missed by his peers and his players."

Nirdasil added, "I, and the Yesopalithan Sports Committee, have decided to enshrine these two men in the Yesopalithan Sports Hall of Fame, which is usually filled years after a person retires. It is tragic that they died in an automobile accident, but their spirit, work ethic, and programs will live on. I, at the moment, do not have the successor to be the Coach of our team yet, but I will make sure that whomever it turns out to be will understand the gravity of the situation and the shoes that they are filling."

She paused, then stated casually, "I would like to invite the two most important players on our recent team to speak about the two coaches. Thank you."

After a round of applause, Hilary Vander Rox and Jack Jones walked up to the podium. The white dress of Hilary's and the black suit of Jack's made a nice contrast, and they seemed composed.

Hilary paused to take a breath, then simply said, "It was an honor to be coached by both of these coaches. I know for a fact, because of my younger sister Jane, that Coach Wallenberg was a softie inside. He would drill you really hard, and then make sure that your body was all right. Coach Mitchell made sure that everyone knew not only what to do but why they were doing what they were doing. I enjoyed being their pupil, and my success is only because of them. I want everyone to know that the point of Yesopalithan sports - Respect Others to Earn Respect - will not stray; we will persevere, and we will continue to perform, in the honor of these men's memory if not anything else. Perseverentia saeculorum!"

There was a round of applause. Jack stepped up next.

"It is my honor," he said, "to be the one to call the commands for the cremation of these two men's bodies."

The crowd turned its attention to the Honor Guard, who had taken a hold of the caskets.

"Color guard, advance!" Jack said with a firm voice.

The Honor Guard lifted the caskets and advanced slowly to a pit that had been placed. It was a big white bowl.

"Color guard, retire the heroes," Jack stated.

The Honor Guard placed the caskets in the middle of the white bowl.

Jane Vander Rox walked up to the bowl and awaited for Jack to speak.

"Go ahead, Jane," Jack said in a soft voice.

Jane turned a vial, and the bowl was filled with white gasoline. Then, she lit a match, and threw it in.

The crowd watched in solemn silence as the bodies of the men were cremated.

Then, the crowd dispersed, and the players milled around, talking to each other, sharing memories.

It was from this point onward that all of Yesopalitha's sports teams had at least one-third but no more than two-thirds comprised of Unbidden players. A new era had begun...

[Oasirica (Ancient)]

The Ossidiacquan Museum of The Pause Time
Cultural Wing

Cabinet One
Cabinet Two
Cabinet Three
Cabinet Four
Cabinet Five
Cabinet Six


Cabinet Seven


Stefano
Dearest Sister,

Enzo has gone missing. He scored the goal in extra time that ensured we beat Cascratia to proceed to the quarter finals, but since the match we have not seen him. He did not celebrate his goal, merely turned and walked back to the centre circle with his head held high and a steeled look of determination on his face. We did not celebrate either, not as such. but clenched out fists and cried out loud for Oasirica, as usual. Come the final whistle, Enzo was nowhere to be found. I do hope he is okay dear sister, my heart can barely withstand the guilt I feel that I am not suffering with the rest of my family, without the thought that I have failed a fellow player in my duties as captain. Enzo more than others, naturally.

It was Nuno who again opened the scoring for us, and during the course of the match we finally conceded our first goal. In many ways I think the team was relieved. The burden of knowing we were yet to concede was starting to make us on edge, so to have escaped our first concession without being punished with expulsion is a relief, and a weight of our minds. Indeed, since we conceded I believe we actually played better.

The team is as determined to win this trophy for Oasirica as ever, and even Jeferson has started making his opinions known in the dressing room. Not that many of us are listening that much anymore. As I look around the room at half time and before matches, I look into the eyes of my comrades. I can see from their expression that they are not with me in the room. No, instead, they are back home.

Reflected in their eyes I can see the hills against the setting sun of the Mineraux. I can see the shimmering light reflected back up off the surface of the sea, the birds' cries carrying in on the wind. I can see the aqueducts, zig-zagging across the hills, and the canals, bustling with commerce. I can see Sant'Elia, light ablaze and humming with life. I can see the stars shining in the night sky above the mountain-towns of Centroasi. I can see our house in Theodora, with you, Papa, Mama, and Grandmama on the top step in the doorway.

I can see home.

We play Wight next, a team that are likely to present a huge challenge. They are looking formidable and have already put out the team from Yesopalitha, who were looking like a force in themselves. Both teams feature many characters from the other side of the afterlife, and I know a few members of the teams were expressing concerns over their welfare. I am trying to calm them, but made the mistake of comparing our potential for harm to what is happening to you back home. I fear I am not leading the players as best I could.

I do not want to fail them, dear sister. I do not want to fail. I am going to do my best so as to make Oasirica proud. Perhaps if we win the tournament, in some small way, you will feel our dedications to you in your hearts.

I remain as ever,
your Stefano



Esmeralda
Dearest Brother,

We returned to the city. The disease is rampant in both our bodies now, and I fear our time may be soon. As such, we kept ourselves to ourselves, and returned home to the house. Dear brother, it was a mistake. Theodora has been sacked. It is barely recognisable as the jewel of districts it was before. Sant'Elia has fallen. Anarchy was here, once, until la Plaga claimed the gangs as well. But not before they reached Theodora. Our house is a pile of ash, dear brother, the house where we grew up is a pile of ash. Inside its charred walls we saw something even more horrifying. Grandmama and Julian de Rossi must have been inside at the time the flames licked their way up the building, for we found them entwined together inside.

I have wept for several hours over their tragic demise. I simply cannot fathom the horrors they must have faced.

The rumours that Pico de Vincenze had fallen are untrue, as luck would have it, and we are now hearing that they have closed off all contact with the rest of the nation in an attempt to stay pure. Dear brother they are even resorting to shooting those attempting to swim the channel. These are dark days indeed.

The volcano has had a terrible affect as well. Black smoke is tarring the horizon now, and the water is picking up the black sediment from the obsidian that lies below the surface in that mountainous area. The water is nigh on undrinkable already, and the people are fearful for yet another obstacle to face up to. Drought, disease, and contamination. The people of Oasirica are truly cursed.

I must go dear brother. As much as I find comfort in writing to you, the hands of la Plaga are terrible and cold ones indeed, and I need rest. If this is what I have, then my time cannot be long. I am cold, and yet hot. I am feverish, I ache, and I am covered in boils. How dearly I wish you were here to aid me at this dark time, dear brother. We are receiving assistance from a Djocorangan orderly name Taiwo, and he is good to us. I am suffering delusions however, and last night I dreamt you were back in the city, suffering from la Plaga. I awoke crying to think that you should face this terrible affliction.

I dearly miss you, Stefano, and I hope you are healthy. If you are outside the time wall, then I fear you shall pass far before I will, even with la Plaga. But should death bring me closer to you, I shall embrace it, dear brother.

I remain as always,
your loving sister,
Esmeralda

[Astograth]

Astograth Region: Quarterfinals

Wight 0–1 Oasirica
Sìgerén 2–1 Politik

Therefore, the Astograth regional semifinal will be Oasirica vs. Sìgerén, at Rumiatzi's Grand Duke's Stadium.
For the record: Oasirica's RP, though posted slightly after the cutoff, was counted.

[Azrael]

The Azrael Reporter
Sports

Ghazali goal lifts Azrael over Sjovenia; advance to quaterfinals
Timothy Strait, sports correspondent for the Azrael Reporter
Jan 13, 2012

Azrael continue their impressive run at the 45th Baptism of Fire, as they defeated Sjovenia in the first Kagdazka and Pazhujebu octofinal in the Banditi Zaliv Stadion in Oktyabrsk, Kagdazka. Azrael will now prepare to face Oliveland at the Praça de Prata in Mahathu, Pazhujebu. Like Azrael, they are undefeated and expecting to win.

Azrael's match against Sjovenia opened quietly. Sjovenia attempted to use surprise to the advantage as many thought-out and rapid attacks came out of their mid-field early in the first half. However, as these techniques were unable to beat Azrael's seasoned defense, Sjovenia began to be unimpressive as they attempted to switch to a plan B. Azrael used this to their advantage, as the confused Sjovenia team began to make errors that triggered Azraen counterattacks. However, a tremendous effort from Sjovenian 'keeper Josh Jeffers was able to keep Azrael out of the back of the net for the half.

The two teams started on even terms at the beginning of the second half, but clever Azraen play allowed for a late breakthrough when, in the 78th minute of play, Malcolm Adler was able to slip a through ball behind the Sjovenian defense. Ghazali used his speed to get to the ball and tap it away for the finish before Jeffers could get in reach of it.

Even though the goal triggered a revived Sjovenian attack, Azrael was able to hold off for the 1-0 win. Azrael's opponents for today, Oliveland, defeated the previously undefeated Bruyn impressively 3-2. Azrael will be preparing as hard as they can for tonight's match.

Match Summary

Scoring:
Azrael -- 78th -- Kazim Ghazali 4 (asst. Adler 1)

Azrael Roster:
Gallagher, Krasnovsky, Marshall, Tyler, Rocha (Neziri), Valentín (Gilford), Adler, Sanford (O'Neill), Rosales, Ghazali, Harrison

---

--- The Azrael Football Society (cont.) ---
Warning!
--------------------Top Secret!--------------------

---

Messages

Jan 1, 2012

Hey, so how is the reporting going? I've been looking around for more info that you could present to people.
I'll tell you when I find some thing interesting.
-Sweeper

Jan 3, 2012

I've seen some of progress on some sites. Looks like you're a little successful in attracting some attention.
Good job, but do you mind if you could get some of the sites I've got linked in this message. Appreciated.
-Sweeper

Jan 5, 2012

Ha! Knew we'd get some success if on those sites. Man, with this much football hype, people are ripe to 
grab onto some information. It ain't always reliable though, but I think my research is reliable enough.
Unless somehow those gov pay sights are lying to me.
-Sweeper

Jan 7, 2012

Dude, I have got huge news for you. I'm not entirely sure about this one, but it looks like city officials in our 
capital, Itsago, are planning on building a new, large football field somewhere around or in the city. I know 
that Itsago already has one stadium - the Stadion Nasionali, home of the Azrael football team as well as 
90,000 seats. So why would we want to build a new one? My guess is that we're going to be adding sports 
teams really soon. Man, all this happening at one time, I'm sure this is more than coincidence. 
Catch you later,
-Sweeper

Jan 9, 2012

Hey man. Listen, this has got to be short notice. Something import has come up and I don't think we'll 
be able to communicate for a while. Just continue what you're doing. I'll try to send you something as soon
as I can. Peace.
-Sweeper

***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Maintained by the Occult Studies Department

Dr. Zotkin: Okay, Babushka, we're on the home stretch. We've been over the first fifty-four World Cups. We've talked about the innocent and naive beginnings of the tournament, about Snub Nose 38 and their shady connections to Margaret, about the Karelan empire of Rejistania, about the war between Ariddia and Bettia, about the glorious return of Starblaydia, about their main challengers Valanora, and about the conflicts between the Holy Empire and Candelaria And Marquez. We've journeyed far, but now we are here in the modern age.

Baba Yaga: We're on World Cup 55, are we not?

Indeed we are. For the rare Astograthian readers of this publication, the 55th World Cup will always be remembered as a special one; it was their first attempt at World Cup qualification. They failed to do so, of course; they finished eighth in an eleven-team group amidst such powers as the Holy Empire, Eastfield Lodge, and Rejistania, but as you surely know, Babushka, it is often a difficult path to deliver one's self to the finals.

They were valiant. I will forever remember Urrustoy, their powerful defensive midfielder...

Who could ever forget him? Fans of football will always remember him from when he played at Juvapanam ZL, right here on the pretty shores of the Federation. But then that leads us to the major non-football story of World Cup 55, or at least for people from Kagdazka and Pazhujebu.

Ah, the Partisans' Civil War. It was a brief conflict but, unfortunately, it was an unimaginably bloody one.

Babushka, give us a brief summary of the War before we continue with our talk of football.

Well, it all happened during the winter of 5246-5247, Pazhujebi calendar, which is when qualifying for World Cup 55, to be held in Aguazul and Delaclava, was taking place. The Ghavujirjiam regime, a dictatorial feminist military junta that had ruled the Federation for nearly fifteen years, was becoming increasingly totalitarian and paranoid. Its domestic policies, most notably the Service For Services Mandate, were hated by the majority of the population, and over time an underground resistance movement, known as the Partisans, sprung up. Things came to a boil after government-ordered security forces publicly beat several fans at a friendly match between Kagdazka and Pazhujebu and Mytannion. At least one Mytanar fan died.

The nationwide response was one of outrage. Many known celebrities, including Fušia Oujadda, criticized the regime publicly. Egg on her face, Premier Ghavujirjiam deliberately allowed a huge crowd of protesters to amass in the traditionally dissident city of Juvapanam before having her forces murder everyone. Accurate casualty numbers have never been fully tallied, but most experts estimate that over four thousand were killed, including Ms. Oujadda's younger teenage brother.

Committed to ousting the government, Oujadda and many others joined the Partisans, and a full out war broke out. As part of her psychological warfare, Ghavujirjiam came down particularly hard on foreign nationals within the country, with the specific goal of scaring foreign countries away from intervening on the Partisans' behalf.

Which didn't work.

No, it didn't. Elite Mytanar paratroopers, motivated by the incident months earlier involving their fans being assaulted at the Graha'ajat Stidiyama, landed on the southern part of Fajr Island and began a bloody, costly advance northward. Meanwhile, the intelligence wing of the Partisans discovered that Edorta Urrustoy, who we mentioned a bit ago, was in desperate need of help as the regime had placed his wife and young son in captivity. A Ministry of Justice double agent named Bhašal Chayazhiam assisted in freeing the two Astograthians.

But Premier Ghavujirjiam was furious that the operation succeeded and, upon discovering the mole in her midst, Mr. Chayazhiam, she had him murdered. Not knowing his fate, Chayazhiam's daughter Emiliaja, a top Partisans operative, organized a recovery mission that Fušia Oujadda volunteered to execute. It ended badly, with Oujadda being captured in Mahathu, beaten mercilessly, and thrown into a dungeon in the underground government citadel.

Luckily, at that point the Šenapati, who are a powerful aristocratic class within Pazhujebi society, intervened in the conflict. Allying themselves conditionally with the Partisans, they funded a massive invasion of Mahathu Island, undertaken jointly by Partisans and Mytanar forces.

Yes. Oujadda managed to free herself-

-with a bit of help from you, rumor has it-

-you can prove anything, and ultimately a small Partisans strike team assassinated Premier Ghavujirjiam. That effectively ended the conflict. Many lives were lost, but the major military hostilities were, at that point, over.

But, all that time, there was still football going on!

Indeed! If I recall correctly, Valanora were the critics' darlings to win going into the finals; they finished qualifying unbeaten. Of course, Albundania, Krytenia, and my very own Kagdazka and Pazhujebu all achieved the same feat, but not with the same class.

Did Valanora win World Cup 55?

Nearly. They finished the group stage with nine perfect points, and they beat former winners Dorian and Sonya in the Round of Sixteen. Elsewhere, at that point, Sorthern Northland, Aguazul, the Holy Empire, and Albundania went through, while the monks of the Archregimancy put out hosts Delaclava, Bears Armed creeped past Krytenia, and the Babbage Islands scored in extra time to defeat Cafundéu.

After the quarterfinals, things were set up perfectly for an all-Dreamed Realm final!

Yes. Both the Archregimancy and the Holy Empire went through, as did the Babbage Islands and Sorthern Northland, but ultimately it wasn't to be. It did turn out to be an all-Dreamed Realm third-place playoff, however, as Sorthern Northland defeated the Holy Empire and the Babbage Islands knocked off the monks. In the final, Dermot Wolfetone scored the only goal and the Sortherners lifted the trophy for the first time.

And thus began the grand final days of the country known as Sorthern Northland. But you'll have to wait for the next edition to find out about World Cup 56, dear reader!

OOC: I WILL SUPPLEMENT THIS WITH MORE FOOTBALL INFORMATION LATER ON... IT'S BEEN A BUSY DAY! RP CUTOFF FOR K&P QUARTERFINALS!

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Quarterfinal Scores, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu Bracket

Azrael 1–0 Oliveland
Zona Azul 3–1 Armed Bears

The K&P semifinal is thus:
Azrael vs. Zona Azul

[Wight]

.

[Oliveland]

Sad day for the Mongoose

At last, the Mongoose side are out of the Baptism of Fire, at the feet of Azrael side, at the Praça de Prata, in Mahathu. After 90minutes of spectacular football by both sides, and when everybody was expecting the referee to end the match, a mistake by Sapugaru made him score an own goal, by the delight of the opposite fans. Oliveland's coach refused to talk to the journalist, on the
press-room, and only said:
"Sapugaru will pay for this mistake, mark my words!" before rushing to the locker room.

"I'm very disappointed by this defeat tonight, the teams were both evenly matched, and we didn't deserved to lose. Neverthless, I want to congratulate Azrael for going through to the semi-finals and I hope they win the cup, because they eliminated one of the biggest teams in competion, and that can only mean one thing." said assistant manager Gugo Dadart.

In Oliveland, ruports coming from every city on the nation about disruts and angry mobs are scaring the police, after tonight's loss at the Baptism of Fire. Numerous photos of Sapugaru were burned, and several grafitis were designed on the City Hall ranging from "Sapugaru will die!" to "Sapugaru F*** You!" [OOC: I hope I wont get in trouble for writing this :S]

The Hightiest Hand on Earth, Saskuatch the Third, has already stated that the National Courts will define Sapugaru fate. We will keep you updated on this situation.

The team is expected to arrive at the National Airport of Francisc Lambor tomorow at 16.00

[Zona Azul]

Leaving the training centre at night, Deckmib was lucky that the venue of the match versus Armed Bears was exactly in Gelendzhik, the city where he had left his home capsule. Otherwise, he would have been forced to use some local transportation system in order to leave the planet. Just the thought of doing that gave Art chills.

"Imagine me... inside a train... ugh, how low I sometimes have to go in order to do my job. Glad that the competition schedule saved by of this problem."

Transforming himself back into a common person, he returned to the small community in which basketball court he dug his capsule. He was surprised to see that the landing crater became a point for tourists. It was surrounded by street vendors, people taking photographs and neon lights. He came close to one of the tourism guides and asked:

"What is going on here?"

"Have you never heard of the Gelendzhik Crater? What the hell, you are well uninformed, my friend. This thing appeared here out of nothing, followed by a huge noise... the kids came to play some basketball, and suddenly there was no court anymore. It is a true mystery. Some people say this is a passage to a highway to hell, others say this is a crater caused by a meteor which was supposed to exterminate our race but failed to do so by some godlike miracle... and some say this is an airport for UFOs or a crater caused by one. I don't believe in any of these claims, I think this was caused by some irregularity in the soil here, but this is good for business... people from all around the country are coming here to see the crater."

"Oh, I see. So, these people stay here looking at the crater the whole day?"

"Yes, that's something like it. Not much fun in doing this, I belive, but they have nothing better to do. Some make rituals here..."

"Wouldn't it be better for just to cover the crater with dirt and rebuild the court?"

"No, this money will serve for us to build a new sportscentre for the kids, it was a blessing for our neighbourhood."

Well, at least the mess he caused was doing some good, Art thought. But he needed to get out of that planet in order to continue with his mission. He needed to go to the Zona Azul spaceport close to there and meet the place manager, using the disguise of a football player offering his services. But he couldn't take off with his flying capsule, as it would come from the crater and be seen by everyone around. He couldn't even imagine the consequences of such a thing, being spotted by so many citizens and also possibly his presence becoming known for the Zona Azul members.

Worried, he then contacted Waolloch, who could use his contacts in order to help him to leave that place unnoticed.

"I sent a human agent to Kagdazka especially to help you if needed. I'll send him and provide some distraction. Meanwhile, get into your capsule while I make the arrangements, and when I order you to takeoff, do it."

Following the orders of his superior, Deckmib went to the pipe that connected the above ground area to his space capsule. Abandoned his disguise, returning to be a beige mass of unknown substance, and crawled back to his home sweet home.

Near the crater, a voice could be heard:

"Free candies, free souvenirs! Everything is free, just come and get it!"

It seems that the word "free" has a special effect on people, as everyone began running towards the agent, who had difficulties in providing candies and Fusia Oujadda dolls to everyone.

Taking advantage of this, Deckmib took off with his capsule, leaving the crater and opening one even bigger. Just an old man saw his space transport... and of course no one would believe what he had seen.

At last, Deckmib landed in the Zona Azul spaceport. Waolloch then gave the next orders.

"You are the master of discretion, so I trust you. Just stay in the spaceport like any customer, as if you were just parking your capsule in the middle of a travel, as the others are doing. However, I need you to transform yourself into Virnex Apoxnnu, a football player we killed for not paying the salary of security guards hired from our Total Police... you'll offer your services as a player in exchange of money, no one knows he is dead apart from us."

---

ZONA AZUL OFFICIAL MATCH ANNOUNCEMENT

Zona Azul managed to overcome its most difficult challenge so far by defeating the squad of Armed Bears, by the scoreline of 3x1. In the end, the alien team managed to do an excellent job in avoiding to play in a style that could favour their opponents, evading physical disputes and focusing in short and fast passes, taking advantage of the speed of players like Sazzavv and Prlnin. But, instead of targetting the crossing when reaching the attacking area, the Zona Azul players did well in prefer low passes and shots from outside the area. The latter strategy ended being less efficient, with the goalkeeper from Armed Bears easily saving the finishing attempts, especially from Eçañas who was the player who most tried to score from a long distance.

The first goal of Zona Azul came thanks to a sequence of speedy passes, started by the martian Varginha. His pass went to the left wing, where Ob took it. With difficulties to avoid the big bears, while it is so small, Ob quickly got rid of the ball in order to not be caught, giving the ball to Prlnin. She, who once again couldn't take advantage of her beauty due to the nature of her opponents, made a long ranged pass to K-M'il, who just managed to get the ball thanks to a use of his magical talents, by freezing the ball in front of him when in fact it was going to leave for a throw-in. Then, he dribbled one opponent and passed to Miller, who got one-on-one with the keeper and shot to score.

The second goal was a lucky one. A crossing to the Armed Bears area was badly deflected by the defender, and Hromdzitklecvau was smart enough to take the ball and score. Armed Bears was only able to score at the beginning of the second half, with an impressive long ranged shot. Y'Gohlrodt may have twelve arms, but his eyes weren't even close to quick enough in order to see the ball passing towards the net. But Hromdzitklecvau's second goal and the third of Zona Azul in the match calmed down the supporters and players, giving the company a precious place in the semifinals, to play versus Azrael.

[Oasirica (Ancient)]

The Ossidiacquan Museum of The Pause Time
Cultural Wing

Cabinet One
Cabinet Two
Cabinet Three
Cabinet Four
Cabinet Five
Cabinet Six
Cabinet Seven


Cabinet Eight


Stefano
Dearest Sister,

We beat Wight. We played hard and fought valiantly for every ball, and we exited the field with our heads held high. It was Sebastian who scored our goal, and it was Cassiano who was the hero, coming out and making sure the opposition couldn't score. They pushed us hard over the course of the match, but we were able to taken the win and progress to the regional final against Sìgerén, a team who are looking increasingly dangerous as the tournament progresses. Nonetheless, we shall endeavour to prevail, in the name of Oasirica.

The Wight captain, at the end of the match, pulled me towards him and said a most curious thing, "You will discover, ultimately, that time is not the be-all and end-all of existence." What he said after that, I am not sure I can repeat, but his words have me thinking. For if time has progressed as steadily as it was intended to within the time wall, then dear sister you must be reaching the end of your life before too long. Such a thought hadn't crossed my mind prior to this match, but now that it has I confess to finding myself in a mood that is bleaker than black. Will we ever be re-united? In this lifetime or the next?

I know not what to do, to say, to think. I haven't eaten in three days. Food seems pointless. Nor am I sleeping more than a moment or two each night Instead I stay awake and look towards the Blue Mountains they have here in Astograth, and I think about the imposing black smear on the horizon of Oasirica that is Pico Negro, or the Collines Orientales. I long to feel the black sand of Los Aflorameintos between my feet again.

The locals and some of the press are starting to label us the Lost Boys. This is something I think we are all feeling at the moment. Lost. We are flying the flag for our homeland, a homeland we are not even sure exists anymore, and we feel lost. I feel like one of the knights we would have Mama read us stories about when we were younger. Competing together in combat under their standards, battling to win the blessing of a fair maiden. These are the sort of stories that Oasirica is built on. And now we are re-enacting it all out. Only under standards of a country we can no longer be sure exists, and battling for her honour.

We found Enzo, dear sister. He had taken his own life. Racked with guilt like the rest of us are, he could no longer take it apparently. He had written a letter to you, and we found it amongst his possessions. I am including it in the pile of letters I myself have written to you, to post in case the time wall ever comes down.

I do so dearly miss you, dear sister, you and all of Oasirica. I pray that one day I shall be able to gaze upon its shore again. I am not sure what I will do once the tournament is over. Sometimes it feels as though the only thing keeping me going is the prospect of winning this trophy for the homeland.

I remain as ever,
your Stefano



Esmeralda
Dearest Brother,

Papa is dead. I am the only one of our family left. Even the house is no more. His last moment weren't pretty, dear brother, and I'm sure you'll appreciate my honesty. He was calling for you in his last moments of delusion. I told him that I received a letter from you detailing how you scored the winning goal in the final. All a fabrication, of course, but in his delusion he was unable to tell clearly the difference between truth and fallacy, and it seemed to bring him peace in his final moments.

That was some days ago now. It has been over two years now since the time wall went up, and things are getting no better. I had expected my own personal health to have deteriorated further, to be honest, but I have got no worse in the past few days. I definitely have la Plaga, Taiwo has confirmed as such, but have suffered no deterioration in a week or so. I fear it shall not be long however, and so that is why Taiwo and I are to be wed!

He has captured my heart, dear brother, and my primary care-giver at the moment has given me his in return. We are smitten. In the face of such adversity for our nation, is it not right that it should be interspersed with little moments like this to raise our spirits again? And so that is what is going to happen. Taiwo cares not that our marriage could be all to brief, I feel tremendously lucky to have met a man so caring. You would like him, dear brother, and I'm sure you would love him like a brother in no time.

We plan to honeymoon in the town of Fluminimaggiore next week, dear brother, perhaps you remember it? It is the town out in the east coast of Gimignano where we holidayed twice as a family. The sun sets behind the hills, leaving the blue tones of night to dwell in the twilight on the beaches, before the stars begin to shine and the sea glistens in the light. I can think of no better place to spend what could be the last two weeks of my life.

I have begun to think less about death, dear brother. I know with my condition, it is always on the horizon, but I have had several weeks to adjust my life outlook to reflect this, and I am beginning to adjust better to it. Taiwo says my opinion is admirable, and sometimes I confess to agreeing with him.

Oh Stefano, I wonder sometimes where this nation will go. Central government has all but dissolved, an interim state driven care system run by Djocorangans is in power, and are making the decisions. They are doing a job better than any Oasirican could have ever done, I am sure. la Plaga is now in all areas of the nation bar Pico de Vincenze, and those that will die must now surely die. Rumours abound on the wind that there are a few who have not died following the affliction, though with the breakdown in communication, whether that is true or not is anyone's guess.

Our biggest problem at the moment is the constant eruptions of the volcanoes in Vul. Black smoke is charring the air, soot and grains of obsidian are settling everywhere, and the big rivers of the east are already running jet black. We will be crossing a few on the way to Fluminimaggiore, and I hope to see them with my own eyes. With no water being able to be taken from the rivers, the condensadores are working harder than ever to extract the moisture in the air, as rain is still not forthcoming. Water is becoming a real problem for our land, dear brother, and I am concerned at what kind of life Taiwo will have once I am gone.

And speaking of condensadores, I feel I need to tell you of the latest season of football to have been completed. Condensadores won the league, with a team far reduced in quality since the death of so many Oasiricans, made mostly of untrained Djocorangans, but your very own Conquistadores at least won the Trofeo Magisterio.

I am sure if you were here, you would run rings around them all, dear brother. Hurry home, I think of you fondly.

I remain as always,
your loving sister,
Esmeralda

[Astograth]

(Please note The Rumiatzi Sentinel is notoriously nationalistic, biased and unreliable. Reader discretion advised.)

A History Of The World Cup: Edition 56

The penultimate entry in this historic series of Sentinel articles covers the recent World Cup 56, which to our readers will be best known as the one before the ingenious Powell Pieran took Astograth to the finals. To our other readers it is perhaps best known as the one in which Sorthern Northland cemented its place in history...

Though our glorious Olibondeka didn't qualify, mainly due to a vile conspiracy placing us in a group that included The Archregimancy, Polar Islandstates, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu, WC7 winners Errinundera and the boisterious, enthusiastic nation of VANTELIRA, it was still a profitable tournament as the seeds for a much better performance were sown. And we mustn't forget the Khuril seaplane tragedy, which resulted in the death of two pilots and the miraculous rescue of the FPIFA President, two Polarian footballers and our own beloved Bayardo Morriyas and Laurgain Erlis.

Better luck was had in Chetkosk, who qualified on their very first attempt – the first to do so since Bears Armed at World Cup 41. There were other surprises as the virtually unknown Sarzoclava – purportedly a nation formed by dissidents from Sarzonia and Delaclava – topped its group, and WC53 finalists Albundania ceased to exist at the end of qualifying, allowing the qualification of our fellow Rushmori Cotdelapoms and Sarrbia. These were also the finals to feature the most nations from Rushmore to date, with nine representatives by the Sentinel's count.

The tournament proper, held in Valanora and Sorthern Northland, was not without controversy, most notably in Group C. An error in the tie-breaker software meant Starblaydia advanced, but they were quick to point out the mistake and were rewarded for their honesty with a third-place finish, below Kazzoria and The Holy Empire, Simeone Di Bradini heartbroken to defeat his own country 4-1.

The Round of 16 saw the clash of two international heavyweights: Valanora and Aguazul; Eusebio Nadol and Juan Esteban Oraglio kept the Marauders from reaching the quarterfinals for once. Bears Armed crushed Delaclava, Kazzoria had no trouble beating those vagrants from Mytannion, The Babbage Islands beat Cassadaigua in a match between WC54 hosts, Krytenia kept the dream alive by putting down Cotdelapoms. The Holy Empire and Queer Poco el Mono Ara also submitted us to a snoozefest, fairy king Oberon's early goal being all the Frosties needed to advance... and, well, alright, The Rumiatzi Sentinel doesn't usually talk about those blasted Polarians but apparently we have to. We apologise for this lack of journalistic integriy, but yeah, Polar Islandstates beat Jeru FC in extra-time. Big deal.

In the quarters, Aguazul breezed through their game with Kazzoria, a 3-0 courtesy of the substitutes. The other three matches were... less boring. Elizabeth Hanna-Kirkpatrick, Babbage Island goalkeeper, had to be taken off after crashing into the post in their match against Sorthern Northland, with her replacement so shaken the Bumblebees went on to lose 7-4. Meanwhile, a truly spectacular, idiotically unlikely sequence of events ensured Krytenia let in six unanswered goals against The Holy Empire after being 2-0 up. Thirty-two minutes in Krytenian keeper Alan Keys tripped over a blade of grass and, as he writhed in agony, his replacement Steven Orsini dislocated his ankle taking off his tracksuit. And then a cameraman dropped his camera on third keeper Ray Cordoba's foot ensuring none of the three could carry on playing... six minutes later, captain Clive Richardson was sent off for allegedly groping La Belle Dame; understandably, it all fell apart for Krytenia, who had not reached a semifinal since World Cup 33.

And yes, the Polar Islandstates beat Bears Armed on penalties. Not sure if fix or TIMO SKYE.

In the semifinals, the fairies of The Holy Empire (that's what they were this time around, right? Fairies? Something about dark matter and stuff, we couldn't be arsed) had to resort to penalties to eliminate Aguazul, while Sorthern Northland had a dream night as they obliterated Polar Islandstates 4-1 in their native, and naturally sold-out, James Connolly Stadium in Beningrad. The heroes of World Cup 55 booked their ticket to Valanora to play in their third final, but it would be a tough match.

In the end, after 120 gruelling minutes, it was the Sortherners who scored the winner over Juan Tzimisces' team, and Eulàlia Marxuach who lifted the most sought-after trophy in world sport for the second time. Like so many other finals, it was a rivetting match; uplifting, perhaps the greatest of all time... or that was how the Beningrad Morning Star described it, at least. At the time, the Sentinel offices were too busy with third-tier Astograthian footie to pay much attention.

Now, tomorrow's edition is what you've all been waiting for, dear readers! Yes, it's World Cup 57! The one featuring us! I can't wait and you can't either!

---

Cutoff for the Astograth region semifinal... who will stay in Rumiatzi and who will travel to Pazhujebu?

[Astograth]

Astograth Region: Semifinal

Oasirica 1–0 Sìgerén

Therefore, Oasirica advances to the Baptism of Fire final at Graha'ajat Stidiyama in Zhevassi, Pazhujebu, while Sìgerén will seek consolation in the third-place play-off at Grand Duke's Stadium in Rumiatzi.

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Here we go! Final score from Terpimost Stadion in Yayal is coming soon, as RPs are hereby CUT OFF!

[Kagdazka and Pazhujebu]

Semifinal Score, Kagdazka and Pazhujebu Bracket

Azrael 1–0 Zona Azul

Therefore the Third-Place Playoff at Grand Duke's Stadium in Rumiatzi will be Zona Azul vs. Sìgerén and the Final at Graha'ajat Stidiyama in Zhevassi will be Azrael vs. Oasirica.

[Oasirica (Ancient)]

The Ossidiacquan Museum of The Pause Time
Cultural Wing

Cabinet One
Cabinet Two
Cabinet Three
Cabinet Four
Cabinet Five
Cabinet Six
Cabinet Seven
Cabinet Eight


Cabinet Nine


Stefano
Dearest Sister,

We are through to the final. Sìgerén proved a tough opposition however. They were well thought out tactically, and they advanced confidently with the ball when they had it, full of self-assurance and looked completely calm with the world. By contrast I fear we must have looked like a collective of miscreants. Wild, unshowered, dishevelled, loud, passionate, extravagant, erratic, and by all accounts the best and the worst of Oasirican character all at once, we must have presented a view of ourselves that was no less than chiaroscuro in its presentation. Particularly by contrast to our opposition.

We managed to defeat them however, Nuno running onto Benjamin's through ball to power a shot into the net with a ferocity and anger that I have scarcely seen. Even by the emotional standards we have so far set in this tournament, it was a moment of pure unapologetic passion, Nuno breaking down in tears after he saw it hit the back of the net. Again, rather than celebrate these goals at the moment, we simply stand and embrace.

The Sìgerén captain took the opportunity to pull me to one side after the game as well, it would seem this is becoming a regular part of my Baptism of Fire experience. He said to me, "When the tree falls in the forest, Senor Velasquez, the monkeys scatter. Never forget that if the wind comes from an empty cave, it's not without a reason." I must confess that his words have so far left me wondering where to go from here. Here I am, captain to these men here with me, on this boat to Zhevassi for the final. What if the boat capsized right now? Would our pain not be over? Where is the empty cave? And am I the tree? It is true, I suppose, that with Jeferson quieter than ever before, and Della Rocca also retreating in his shell he seems to have accepted that little he can say to us before a match can motivate us anymore than we already are, I am feeling like the only leader amongst us. And so as much as I want to blow over in this wind, dear sister I simply cannot.

There are too many things left unfinished.

It is a queer position indeed to find oneself in, where you are so utterly low about something, and yet motivated by the same action to a point where it is all consuming. I despair dear sister, that I may not ever see your face again, or find a woman of my own to wed, or see the homeland again and discover coves on the Gimignano coast like we used to as children. I may never see the flag of our nation hoisted every sunrise from the Monumento de la Gente. This match again Azrael for the title, it struck me earlier that it could be the last time I ever hear our national anthem in an official capacity. These things are all coming to an end for me. My family are likely dead, my homeland likely ravaged, my life likely destroyed forever.

And yet, dear sister, there is nothing motivates me more than winning the trophy for all of these reasons. Oasirica's one last hurrah. The Lost Boys shall prevail. We simply have to. I dream of lifting the trophy. Or at least I would should sleep's tendrils ever carry me away. Instead, my waking dreams are of playing, scoring the winning goal, lifting the trophy, carrying it home to triumphant scenes in Sant'Elia, and becoming a hero to the people. I can think of nothing else at times. My paralysing longing for home appears to have transferred itself to a singular aim. This is my goal in life. My entire life is now about this match. I doubt there is anything else for me but to win this match for the memory of Oasirica.

Perhaps I am the empty cave, and the tree at the same time? I cannot afford myself to blow over in my own haste and desperation, and must continue to lead the team towards our goal, the reason for the wind flowing out of me in the first place. And then what? What is the be-all and end-all of my existence? Perhaps this is it?

I have to do this, dear sister. Lack of sleep, lack of food, I don't care. My system is running on pure belief and stubbornness. Failure is not an option.

For Oasirica.

I remain as ever,
your Stefano



Esmeralda
Dearest Brother,

I am still here! It has taken me roughly six years, but I am regaining my health day by day. It is a tremendously slow process, but as far as Taiwo can tell, I have effectively fought off la Plaga. The doctors from the Cuerpo Medicio del Ejercio are coming to see me tomorrow and draw blood. I am told that I am one of very few who have some sort of natural resilience to the disease. I have no idea why, for there is certainly no Djocorangan in our bloodline. At least, not yet. But there soon will be! Dear brother, some excellent news in this pit of despair the nation finds itself in, Taiwo and I are expecting. Our dear child will be sure to be immune to la Plaga, and so I have no fears in bringing another life into this world, something I wouldn't have dreamed of doing just seven years ago when the affliction was at its most rampant.

Taiwo has been an absolute rock, dear brother, he is my hero. Were it not for him, I do not know how I would get through the days. That is not to say he makes it all better though. Not a day goes by where I don't think of our house in Theodora, or of happier days with you, Grandmama, Mama, and Papa, and of the shining capital city we used to have at the keystone of our nation. But he is there nonetheless. And he has done a most noble thing. Surnames in Djocoranga are much less of a social expectation. with many parents choosing both the first and surnames of their children at birth, it not being uncommon to have a family of five with five different family names. As such, he is suggesting that for now we consider our child to bear the surname of our House of Velasquez. Our line shall continue, dear brother! Perhaps one day, there may even be another Lord of Velasquez representing our national team once more.

Oasirica itself is still in a colossal mess. The country is run at the moment by a government in part-exile in Pico de Vincenze. Perhaps you are familiar with the Cattedrale dei Quattro Santi? That is where they are based, in the gorge amongst the vegetation, dictating what should happen to a nation that they have deserted. Need I remind you that these are the people who elected to shoot their fellow countrymen who were attempting to cross the straights and join them on the island, rather than even attempt at placing them in quarantine. It is barbarc, dear brother, and I am quite disgusted by their actions. Nonetheless, their numbers include the lords of a great many noble familes, including many that Papa used to argue with regularly on matter of social equality, and their say hold some considerable weight amongst the people.

They say there are over a million people on that island, hiding from la Plaga's last throes of death as it blows itself out over the nation. New cases are becoming increasingly rare, dear brother, but the damage has been undeniably done. Of our nation of 45 million proud Oasiricans, it is estimated that perhaps as many as 40 million have perished. OF the remaining 5 million, 1 million is hiding on Pico de Vincenze, and the others on the mainland are mainly made up of Djocorangans. The funeral pyres still burn as fierce as ever, smouldering on the horizons. They have assigned a working government to manage the land left behind, and they are doing a far better job I feel than the previous regime. This seat of Djocorangans has yet to find a name, but they sit in Sant'Antioco. First on their agenda is the restoration of national services, and the reconstruction of Sant'Elia, for which I cannot wait.

The volcanos continue to erupt. I am deeply concerned now dear brother. Even the rivers in the far west are beginning to run jet black with the obsidian sediments. The rains continue to evade us in any serious quantity, and most of those with the knowledge of how to work the condensers have perished with la Plaga. I fear we may be facing a serious problem in the future, dear brother.

I often think of you, and what became of you in the tournament. In my dreams you succeeded, and then came back to Sant'Elia, triumphantly holding aloft the trophy to the spires, preaching tales of your title-winning goal. I lament that we shall likely never meet again dear brother, I miss you dearly.

I have a life here, yes. But it is missing a vital part of it.

I remain as always,
your loving sister,
Esmeralda

[Astograth]

The last RP cutoff for the Astograth region: the third-place play-off!

[Astograth]

Astograth Region: Third Place Play-off

Zona Azul 3–0 Sìgerén

Congratulations to Zona Azul, commiserations to Sìgerén; either way, well done on coming this far!

[Azrael]

People crowded in the streets of Itsago as Azraen police patrolled the area nearby. The screams of several Azraen fanatics could be heard polluting the afternoon air.

"Bring us home the cup!"

"Ghazali for president!"

A megaphone then sounded, just barely audible over the crowds. A man clad in Azrael's colors began shouting in Azraen.

"Soruai to tomaivuerha ka kopa! Azriel kretaiu ka Baptisəm du Jora!! Soruai Azriel! Soruai!!!"

Translation: "Go and give us the cup! Azrael shall win the Baptism of Fire! Go Azrael! GO!!!"

The crowd started becoming aggresive. Cars were turned over, people pushing and shoving each other; it was not really for any particular reason other than to show how determined the fans were. More police came and tried to sort out the flock, to no avail.

Tonight was the night.

---

Special News Announcement

AZRAEL IN THE BAPTISM OF FIRE FINAL

Through a miraculous journey, the Azrael national football team has found its way to the Baptism of Fire final today at the Graha'ajat Stidiyama in Zhevassi, Pazhujebu. Azrael were victorious last night against Zona Azul after a 76th minute penalty kick from leading scorer Kazim Ghazali. Azrael was able to prevent Zona Azul from scoring at the Terpimost Stadion in Yayal, Kagdazka despite the extremely persistant effort from their offense. This occasion has caused huge crowds of fanatics to gather at the capital of Itsago to watch the final at Azrael's very own Stadion Nasionali. Obviously the nation is very proud of the surprisingly masterful performance from the national side and have high hopes for tonight.

Azriel vs Zona Azul match summary
Scoring
Azrael -- 76th min -- Kazim Ghazali 5(pen)

Azrael roster
Gallagher, Krasnovsky, Marshall, Tyler (McLaughlin - 54th min), Rocha, Valentín(Navarro - 57th min), Sanford(O'Neill - 80th min), Adler, Rosales, Ghazali, Harrison

---

Ambient

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------" "bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------" "bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

The radio continuously buzzes ever so incessantly; its almost rhythmic in a way, similar to your own arrhythmia caused by the stress of the past few weeks. The beat matches almost perfectly with the shouts coming from far outside these five-foot thick concrete walls, forming some kind of darkly satirical song in a way.

"The bombs fall down, the people run, I am all alone, O! what joyous fun"

You sit there, staring madly, grimacing as you focus on the cracks written on the wall as if they are sending you some coded message.

"The answer to life is no life at all! Death solves everything!!!! Death makes life fun!!!

The light bulb flickers. The radio still buzzes. The people still scream.

Ideas form in your head like embryos in a mother's womb. Demonic forces continually seize upon your mind's children, devouring the unborn thoughts before they reach any consciousness.

The buzzing continues.

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

The screaming gets louder. A bomb shatters, but doesn't disturb the walls in any way. It's almost as if your animalistic den has been forever forgotten by the worldly carnage that continues endlessly everyday.

The radiance of fire burns in the soul of every being lucky to be alive.

"Are we truly lucky to be alive? Or is it lucky to die? Is it best to never be born at all?"

More shouting. More death.

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz------"

"The bombs go boom and people die, O boo hoo! Cry cry cry!"

You relish in the screams coming from the world around, knowing that your constant isolation is the only thing keeping you on the brink of insanity. You answer each cry with a wild, hyena-like laugh, your voice echoing in the small room.

Nothing but you within dim light. Hope has no sort of prevalence whatsoever, inside or outside. All there is is mad, wild enjoyment in nihilism.

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz----------------------"

"bzz--bzz--bzbzbzzzzbzzzzz----------------------"

The radio shakes and falls to the ground.

"BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ"

Suddenly everything stops.

"------------------"

No more pain. No more joy. No more hate. No more soul.

Nothingness. Darkness. Ambiance. Serenity. Freedom from the insanity that was brought upon the world whatever amount of time it was ago.

You are now left with a quiet, dark room. Confined within for eternity. Freedom from self. Enslavement to fate.

Nothing to see here.

You attempt to whistle but utter boredom stops any sound from coming out.

Reluctance. "How could it have been so enjoyable a few minutes ago, then the power goes off, and now there is no fun. There is no anything"

Rumbling. "What could it be? Could it be mother and father trying to take me home after such a wonderful day of play. Play, play, play play play. I only wish to play but it has become so boring"

That voice. You savor every time you hear it. The laughter is what you enjoy most.
But it looks like there will be no laughter tonight.

You lie down and attempt to sleep after not having done so for such a long amount of time.

You try to imagine the buzzing but realize you have long forgotten it, despite it having rung in your ears everyday since it started. You began to enjoy it more as time went on. It was perfectly fitting to the state you were in. The state the world was in. Perfectly fitting.

You lie your head down on the unforgiving concrete floor.

No buzzing.

Ambient

"----------------------------------------------------------------------------------"