New Edom Bans WorldVision Song Contest

[New Edom]

THE FINEBERG TIMES

Nov 17, 2015

---

---

New Edom to Ban Worldvision Song Contest Viewing

by Annabelle Barca

FINEBERG, New Edom-- The WorldVision Song Contest, one of the most popular, if not the most popular talent and music events in the world, is holding its 43rd event this year. nations from around the world will be sending their most talented musicians and singers to this event to compete for the top spot. Judges and commentators who are often household names will be leading viewers through the huge range of popular performances. Advertising and displays of excitement and dazzle will explode across television screens globally.

And yet, in the Allied States of New Edom, the National Chamber of Deputies has responded to a call from the Council of Churches to boycott the event, slap an embargo against any importing of advertising for it, and to act like it does not exist. The event was shown on Edomite television networks before, even commented on on NENN news. So why ban it now?

According to Dr. Marius Campion, who led the move to ban the program, it represents a committment to the Morality Act, the binding laws that govern new Edom's civil and criminal laws. "I spoke with the Prophet Under and teh Archbishop and we discussed the issue at length before i urged this to a vote. There has been a laxity in the enforcing of moral public programming in our country, and it's time we put a stop to it. We need to balance our contact with the rest of the world with moral guidance."

Specifically, there are concerns with the material shown in the contest. For instance in WorldVision 41, the band “Monday Morning” sang a song that was clearly a freethinking song, which has become popular in the pro-LGBT movement in New Edom, a movement specifically attempting to destroy the Morality Act and enable same sex marriage. The song’s lyrics include these lines:

It’s no decision
Baby, I was born this way (Oh Oh Oh Oh Oooh)
Guess it’s just my fate (Oh Oh Oh Oh)
I had a vision (Oh Oooh)
Of it all being okay (Oh Oh Oh Oh Oooh)
Your views decay (Oh Oh Oh Oh)

I can’t help what I’m feeling
What’s going on, what’s going on
I can’t help what I’m feeling
What’s going on, what’s going on

I do my life, oh, I am who I am
Don’t care for the rules, it’s all out now
I’ll shout it loud, oh, I'm doing my life now
Not scared of the crowd, I won’t give up
One day you will know, That I won’t let go
My life will go on, without yo’ yo’ yo’
I do my life, oh, I am who I am
I am who I am

At a glance, these lyrics simply seem a call to individualism. However the Sarian, the nation of origin, is a demonstrably pro-LGBT rights nation. These lyrics are seen as no accident.

Anther example was brought up by the committee reviewing the proposed legislation. Also in WV 41, the artist Rick Leg sang an obscene song about a male organ, with a live action demonstration. While the naked body is hardly obscene in New Edom, what is done with it certainly can be. In another song, the artist Katie Cracker sang another song of obscene connotations where she deliberately and provocatively shook her backside at the audience in a song literally about twerking.

Then in WV 42, the artists Soledad, a female rapper from the Attican Republic, sang a song called “F___ Thee”.

In many of these cases, it might have been possible to take the acceptance of these songs as open mindedness, a virtue among many progressive nations and liberal countries. However to members of the committee, the respone of the contest hosts reviewing the songs was troubling. Soledad’s song got this response from the commentators;

Attican Republic
Max: To be honest, I don't see why people are complaining about the swear words. If they're there then it has to have a purpose, and it does.
Sonya: Just a bunch of prudes.
Max: In saying that, this song's got attitude. There's something about the line "F*** thee, you little c*nt" which is hilarious.
Sonya: An excellent warrior for feminism, and says no sorrys.

(full commentary can be seen here)

In the current contest, WorldVision 43, one of the contestants, Normandy and Picardy’s
Gerrad Versun, is openly homosexual and an LGBT activist.

“It is clear,” said Sarah Carmel, the leader of the Free Congress Party and oen of the leading members of the Committee for Moral Entertainment, “That the songs that we have listed as examples—and they are mere examples—are not accidents. Tehre is a tradition in this contest of allowing morally degrading material. In general, there is an atmosphere of decadence and selfish individualism in the contest.”

“We shold be clear here,’ added Dr. Campion, “That we naturally prize individuality—when it is morally guided. Our nation is recovering from civil war. We need to be bound by common values and accepting of one another within them. We need to prize hard work, family values, our religious faith, patriotism and personal enterprise, not shaking around like a stripper on a stage.”

However the vote was by no means unanimous. 55% of the National Chamber of Deputies voted in favour with 14 abstaining leaving 31% voting against the legislation, mostly being more liberal members of the Intellectual Party and the more liberal members of the Christian Social Democratic and National Wisdom Parties. The Intellectual Party, led by Claudius Glaber, has generally stated that its members will continue to recommend that the Morality Act be dismantled.

The initial vote on this interpretation of the Morality Act will have to be presented to the two monarchs of New Edom, King Elijah and Queen Mara. The monarchs will be advised by their officials and Ministers of the Council, Following that it will pass back to the Chamber with the Monarchs’ yea or nay.

It is the intention of anti-Morality Act groups to try to dissuade Their Majesties from signing the interpretation into law and thus forcing a censoring of the contest and similar entertainment into law. Claudius Glaber of the Intellectual party announced, “I have requested an audience with Their Majesties or their staff to introduce them to spokesperson who can offer a difference of opinion from the majority of the committee.”

The Foreign Minister, Dr. Paul Ahek, was asked what bearing this legislation may have on New Edom’s relations with foreign nations which are tolerant of homosexuality and feminism, including neighboring nations like [nation[Jedoria[/nation] and Deadora. Dr. Aphek said, “Naturally, we have every respect for the right of foreign nations to have their own laws. However you have to draw the line somewhere. You can tolerate the idea that someone else tolerates foul language in their own home while not tolerating it in your own. Furthermore there is a limit of trade and tourism we do with nations that do not demonstrate respect for our ways.” He laughed and said, “AT the end of the day—this is a song contest. It will hardly be the end of the world if the Morality Act is interpretated that it should not be shown in our country.”

[Greater vakolicci haven]

Official statement

The Free the Web Campaign: committed to ending censorship and protecting liberty across the globe.

The Free the Web campaign wishes to inform citizens of New Edom, as well as other nations practising the vile sin of censorship that our network of satelites is still strong and growing. Free the Web provides internet proxy forwarding, VPN and anonymisation/security services free of charge to citizens of any nation where they are required, in order to aid the free movement of information.
Their is no excuse for censorship. No excuse for limits on information. No excuse to impose your views on others. To governments practising this vile practise, Free the Web is happy to fight you, to ensure the liberty of the citizens you are oppressing is protected.

With hope for a freer tomorrow,
Alena Daranen,
Founder and co-president,
Free the Web

[New Edom]

The Internet in New Edom, as a space used for circulating information and mobilizing protests, has been hard hit as the authorities increased the list of blocked websites and partially blocked the Internet during protests. As a way to limit coverage of demonstrations some Internet users and bloggers have been arrested and others have been invited to “preventive conversations” with the National Militia (police). Law No. 248-3, which took effect in April 2015, reinforced Internet surveillance and control measures.

The New Edomite government has moved to second- and third-generation controls to manage its national information space. Control over the Internet is centralized with the government-owned NewEdomcom Company under the Ministry of the Interior managing the country’s Internet gateway. Regulation is heavy with strong state involvement in the telecommunications and media market. Most users who post online media practice a degree of self-censorship prompted by fears of regulatory prosecution. The government has established a strong and elaborate information security policy and has declared the intention to exercise strict control over the Internet under the pretext of national security. The political climate is repressive and opposition leaders and independent journalists are frequently detained and prosecuted. Officials from the Ministries of the Interior, Justice, Culture and Police (national security organization) frequently cooperate in this.

This practice is by no means agreed upon by all members of government. More liberal member of the National Wisdom and Christian Social Democratic Parties, many members of the Intellectual Party, and soem members of the intelligentisa including more liberal clergy disagree with the Morality Act and the Security Act which have fueled the censorship of the internet and popular media.

The April interpretation act which was put into effect by the Heir's government has not yet been overturned by King Elijah IV or Queen Mara i. It is urged that diplomatic pressure be put on the government to overturn the degree of censorhip currently practiced.

--excerpt from manifesto of the Intellectual Party of New Edom

[Todlichebujoku]

Statement from the Seven Regents

The Seven Regents of the Uudestisyntynyt Republic of Tödlichebujoku condemn the proposal in New Edom to ban the broadcasting of the WorldVision Song Contest over the support and acceptance of homosexuality prevalent in the contest. While the Regents understand that the more sexual entries, such as the Free Republics' "Rape Me Baby One More Time", can be quite offensive, there is no shortage of peaceful, quality entries that inspire understanding and goodwill, uniting nations through amazing music and performance. As long as New Edom does not compete in the contest, the broadcaster showing the contest may block the less savory elements of the contest to its discretion. In fact, more than a few nations currently competing do censor parts of the broadcast, especially when certain violent or sexual acts occur. They are still able to participate in and enjoy the elaborate spectacle of the song contest without having to endure any perceived corruption of morality.

As a traditionally homosexual nation which is opening up to heterosexuality, and one where men and women are equal under the law, Tödlichebujoku's definition of morality is, on the surface, quite different from New Edom's. However, it is also based on religion, family, hard work, patriotism, and personal enterprise. The only difference in this respect, when compared to New Edom's, is that Tödlichebujokis view the excessive violence and the more raunchy sexual acts as windows into the cultures of more barbaric nations to be entertained by and looked down upon. The WVSC is seen as a festival of cultures, where anything unsavory is interpreted as a nation's quirk and discounted, especially in family settings.

Of course, the Seven Regents understand that New Edom is entitled to its own proceedings, but would like to let Tödlichebujoku's position be known and understood. A fundamental difference in the governments of the two nations is the level of government involvement in everyday life, specifically in the defense of morality. Tödlichebujoku's pushes family and cultural institutions to do so, fostering a diverse array of religions and cultures along with the major Maailmallinen religion. New Edom's seems to favor the government, which enforces a comparatively rigid and unyielding cultural system. Perhaps it is time for a change.

---

"You still can change now
Your future lies within your heart
Release the light to pierce the dark"
- Kultaiset Pievos, "Rushing Through The Dark", Tödlichebujoku's WV43 entry

[New Aeyariss]

OFFICIAL BROADCAST OF THE SHOGUN MAKI KOJIRO

Dear citizens of the Empire of Greater Nihon;

When I look at this whole issue, the WorldVision Song contest, and it's recent issue, I must say that I am utterly - and overwhelmingly - disgusted by what those media are offering, and I have to note that the government and the people of the Empire of Greater Nihon both are UTTERLY DISGUSTED at what is being portrayed at those festivals. All of them have to understand that an aggressive promotion of sodomy is unacceptable by the standards of the Empire of Greater Nihon. While our government never will take a stand against homosexuals themselves, we do believe that homosexual propaganda, attempting to push certain worldview over humanity, promoting sodomy, perversions and deviations, will simply NOT be tolerated, not just due to the cultural reasons of our nation, but also, due to developed knowledge that homosexuality isn't natural, but rather is caused by vile perversions of man, a state of behaviour in which man, incapable of feeling true love, thinks only about hedonising themselves for sake of their own pleasure.

Greater Nihon isn't a county that will accept this type of behaviour, and this message - an open propaganda of sexual deviation and degeneracy - is offensive to the Nihonese people and our culture. When a show, instead of portraying positive values that will build proper moral character of the future generations, portrays deviancy in positive light in order to push it on the throats of people - it becomes unacceptable.

Therefore according to HOMOSEXUAL PROPAGANDA ACT 2008 a show named "World Vision Song Contest" is officially BANNED from the empire of Greater Nihon for aggressive promotion of sexual degeneracy, and un - Nihonese values. Our government follows concerns of our fellow friends and allies, New Edomite Government, and asks the WorldVision Committee to stop aggressive promotion of sexual degeneracy in the public sphere.

Lastly, it is our announcement that our government will be organizing "Nihonese Tale Song Festival 2015" to provide our citizens with proper alternative to World Vision, one that does not promote civilization of death. We officially invite all musicians from all nations that don't want to yield to the civilization of death to sing their tales at Fujianconcert hall!

[New Aeyariss]

OOC: I would be thankful if somebody wrote a news article about me for that. Thank you all for reading, hope you enjoy.

Just as a note, if you want any other than diplomatic action, TG me. I am not exactly in perfect health status, and I am unsure if I will have ability to RP more, besides a war for LGBT rights is ridiculous. Also a note, to specify:

1) Those aren't views of Nihonese government, which is however also anti - LGBT.

2) In Nihon homosexuality is only tolerated when not public.

3) This isn't a festival I wrote about in previous post, but an independent reply.

---

*** Ishikawa Hall inside Triumphal arch:

The Ishikawa Triumphal Arch, built combining the elements of western and eastern architecture, shaped like a giant Tori Gate but held by more Roman - like looking construction, with each part at front decorated by multiple columns incorporating both Roman and Asian elements, was one of wonders of Ishikawa. Built by Kojiro's administration in 2007 to celebrate victories over communism, this over 78 meters tall triumphal arch was one of biggest in the world. Massive construction served as more than just celebration of Nihonese victories over socialism or as portrayal of Nihon as bridge between East and West, sort of eclectic culture born from best elements of both, but still holding to ancient Nihonese values; it also housed multiple stores, shops, and cultural buildings. One of them was a massive concert hall located in it's top. Today, said hall was overcrowded and swarmed with people, as a concert of most famous Nihonese duo; a native Nihonese singer Fujikawa Keji, a famous singer once singing in army band; and Takeda Eun - Sook, wife of one of most powerful people in Nihon, Gen. Takeda Daisuke, current chief of General staff, a woman of Kosunian origin. Dozens of people flocked into the Ishikawa Hall to see their favorite duo singing alive. But little did they know that their favorite duo prepared something special for them, as their personal response for WorldVision.

Inside, darkness were still present as several figures entered the scene, then a shining light illuminated the room, portraying several men dressed as soldiers of Kaigun Rikiusentai, the Nihonese marines, in full battle gear, holding their rifles, standing solid almost without motion as if they were in battle, holding their rifles still and ready to shoot. A voice coming from choir echoed around:

CHOIR:

Those who Sacrifice....

Those who Sacrifice their lives....

Those who Sacrifice their lives for the Fatherland...

WON'T BE FORGOTTEN...... FOREVER!

The soldiers, while seemingly changing their positions and communicating with each other, mocking battle, suddenly stood at watch and saluted towards the public. A blazing light filled the hall portraying both singers standing in ceremonial uniforms of Imperial Nihonese Army, with several people in ceremonial uniforms of Kaigun, Rikugun or other armed formations standing behind them. The music started to play, coming with a marching rhythm combined with sound of electronic instruments. Fujikawa Keji and Takeda Eun - Sook were both standing together, with their faces towards the public, full of pride. Behind them seven men in black kimonos and headbands were standing, all of them former members of Kaigun Special Forces, now instructors in local martial arts schools. This wasn't anything surprising, since military was most celebrated occupation in Nihonese culture, and de facto was everywhere. But it was the text of what came after that would shock the world:

TAKEDA EUN - SOOK:

It is so sorry to leave you now,
Leaving for war, my husband, dear
But even if my tears will fall as snow,
You are doing right, end of the rainbow is near!

FUJIKAWA KENJI:

I will defend Nihon, my beloved,
From the sodomite horde that wants to rape us,
It is a honor to have this on me bestowed
The time to defeat sodomy come has!

The tubal voice of Fujikawa Kenji echoed across the hall as he tightened grip of katana sword he was holding near his chest, while the woman singer saluted, the music intensified, ad choir joined them in singing:

ALL TOGETHER:

Those who sacrifice their lives for fellow man,
Shall live forever in glory and honor,
Let us grab our guns, every one we can,
Show in battle valor!
Homosexual horde that besieges us,
Won't force themselves over our culture,
They attacked, time for war glorious,
They won't commit against us crimes against nature!

The soldiers behind them started marching or performing typical drill, their guns switching positions quickly as a pencil in hands of a skilled craftsman making a work of art, smoothly, without any problems, as the martial artists begun performing black belt level form in the background, one involving spectacular flying kicks, moving swiftly like tigers hunting for their prey. The music slowed down again, as Fujikawa Kenji begun:

FUJIKAWA KENJI:

Here will begin my stand to death,
For whoever fights for those he loves,
Will get only victory wreath,
Even his own life he looses!

TAKEDA EUN SOOK:

I will defend Nihon, my beloved,
I will grab my naginata, join you in the battlefield
It is a honor to have this on me bestowed
But as long as we live, to sodomy we won't yield!

The music started getting speed again, as the soldiers in background started marching. It was a powerful tune, enacting national pride of the Nihonese, reminding them of values of Bushido and getting them ready for battle. Meanwhile the seven figures entered the scene yet again performing Spectacular feats; breaking bricks with bare fists, having a wooden desks broken at their body, and simulating combat against armed opponents, swiftly disarming opponents armed with katanas and guns not by brute force, but by using their own momentum against them. Then, the last part of the song came, with Takeda Eun-Sook singing alone as the music slowed to almost melancholic:

TAKEDA EUN SOOK:

In the days of glory we will bathe,
With others singing the tales of our deeds,
For as long as we breather,
"No to sodomy and enemy" are our creeds!
As long as unchanged is Heaven's nature
We will face them always on ready,
They won't be destroying our culture,
Thus to battle we march steady!

Then, a final act came, just to show a clear message to the world. Two of the martial artists grabbed a giant LGBT rainbow flag, until now rolled almost invisibly in the corner, and spread it wide before attaching it to two poles. Two next ones covered it with oil, and fourth, performing spectacular jump over it, tossed a flaming torch over it. The flag went ablaze, with flames reaching high.

A standing applause echoed from the crowd, considering that Nihonese were very anti - gay minded; this was conservative culture, where being homosexual was not punishable, but highly detested, and "those who love other way" were causing common disgust in men and women alike. Therefore, a massive ovation echoed towards the singers. There were several more songs after that one, telling of love, patriotism, loyalty and typical conservative values - but it was the first one that would cause most controversies, ones that will echo in the world with wide voice...

[Guadalupador]

Yezhen Bespoko
With Simon Gasdano
Dated: 9th March, 2026

"Ahh... I know I say it almost every night, but boy, is it good to be back. I don't know what I'd be doing without any of you laughing both at, and with me."

"Now, on to the news! Today, it seems that the Edomites have banned a song contest in their country because it was too 'Gay.'"
*Clip from Edomite news report plays*
"Yes, you've heard it here first, the Theocracy of New Edom, oh I'm sorry, 'Allied States of New Edom,' bans things cause they seem too gay for their citizens, I wonder what's next? Rainbows? Brightly colored clothes? Frills? The Edomites must have a terrible sense of fashion if they ban literally everything that seems gay. I wonder what the newest fashions are like in New Edom right now? Let's take a look:
*Presenting the Summer 2026 Fineberg Casual Outfits*
"Man, those buckles look so fabulous! I can't wait to get myself to a tailor to try some of those out! Moving on, it's not just the Edomites that ban everything that's gay, or even remotely related to anything homosexual, bisexual, and pansexual, it's the people that never fail to bring a smile to my face for their sheer martial ridiculousness, Nihon! Now, Maki Kojiro is so absolutely disgusted by homosexuality that he also followed New Yama-, New Edom's example of banning a fucking song contest... But here's where things get a bit cheerier:
*Plays clip of the Nihonese concert*
"Oh Yes! As a holy and moral alternative to the evil, internationalist, cultural marxist, satanic WorldVision, the Nihonese Tale Song Festival was announced and a preview concert was held in Ishikawa. It was government sponsored, so now if you're gay in Nihon, now you know that your government hates you, and hopes you die a slow death. The the first impression of this concert preview, these songs are bound to be filled with slur after slur, and stereotype after stereotype. It'll be like the 1980's fear of gay people, except with less legwarmers, and without "Take on Me" playing softly in the distance at all times. As you can see, it's campy as hell, and it'll have a few catchy, hateful new singles, like:
'We're stuck in the past, please help us!'
'We're a bunch of self-righteous assholes who hate others because they're different.'
'Kojiro is God'
'Some of us are secretly gay, but we're expressing our self-hatred.
'Maybe Hitler was right about killing homosexuals.'
And who could forget, 'Sodomite Killing Boogie'
Wow, now those are some songs that'll get you up and dancing, singing, and shooting homosexuals, because your emotionally and socially stunted ruler said so. I can't wait for the album to come out!"

[New Edom]

Betharan Palace

In the Royal Palace in the capital there was a theater, a small one with sloping floor, a wall sized screen and old fashioned red curtains of heavy cloth. The seats were very comfortable. In them sat several persons. At the center forward were a tall man with olive tanned skin and dark hair, a long melancholy face wearing a tunic like shirt and trousers with sandals, his manner still and quiet. Beside him was a raven haired woman with a similar skin colour but her eyes were large, liquid, imaginative, and her mouth had a soft fullness. Her body was strong but ripe with feminine curves under a light blue and green flowery sun dress. In her lap was a small black Pommeranian. These two were the joint rulers of New edom, King Elijah IV and Queen Mara I.

Seated behind them were a number of members of the royal court and the government—Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain, the Royal Master of Offices; Marcus Cotta, the Minister of Culture; Count Emil Sharra, the Minister of the Interior; General John Ashdod, the Minister of Police; Gabrielle Balaam, the Minister of Justice; Countess Lavinia Nabal, one of the ladies-in-waiting; Countess Melisande Merodach, the Press Secretary; Count Jonas Falk, Commander of the Royal Guard.

On the screen, colours exploded, shifted, moved like a sunset in the stratosphere. Music swelled in bittersweet notes, a woman sang richly and passionately as she moved across a stage in a red dress making a strong appeal to the audience. Lucia Edin, singing a still popular song.

“All this controversy has my interest up, I might never have noticed it if nto for this controversy,” murmured Prince Enoch to Balaam. That graying haired distinguished woman replied with a faint smile,

“I agree, sir, I had no idea that it was so interesting. My officials were just getting on with things untl the Deputies got everyone stirred up back and forth…well one never knows…”

‘Look,” said Cotta, a youngish man, energetic, leaning between them and nudging them to look at the monarchs. King Elijah sat stilla s a statue; Mara leaned forward with interest. Cotta said quietly, “The Morality Act being enforced is one thing that definitely placates any religious tensions…”

The song came to an end, the audience went mad for it, Countess Lavinia Nabal exclaimed, “Oh my gosh, that was so beautiful I had no idea…”

“It was beautiful, I’m not sure I see where the controversy is, oh there’s more…” the Queen began to say.

“Turn it off, I’ve seen enough, “the King said tersely.

“What do you mean?” Queen Mara asked in astonishment. One of the King’s ADCs had already stopped the streaming.

“I think it’s terrible. They call this talent? It’s not a bit as good as “Judas Maccabeus” or “Saul”,” the King said with a grimace.

‘I am not sure that that’s the point of the decision being put across your desk,” said Prince Enoch. “It’s not about whether you like the music or not.”

“What are you talking about?” said the King. “I thought it was a talent show of some kind.”

“It is, but we’re not supposed to judge it, we’re supposed to—“ Mara sketched her lovely hands in the air, “We’re supposed to decide if it’s obscene or not.”

“What moral value does a bunch of screeching like this have to do with anything?” the King said, with a grimace of irration.

“I agree, sir,” said Minister of Culture Marcus Cotta eagerly. “I’d rather—I’d rather watch dancing capybaras!”

The King turned around in his seat and stared at him so coldly that Cotta’s face went pale.

Then the King said coldly, “There were messages? Other things?”

“Some kind of internet threat from one of those organiztions for internet freedom,” said Minister Balaam. “I have advised that our ministry and General Ashdod’s work closely together to harden our systems in case they try to attack us. You never know, sir, they could be some kind of fifth column for the communists.”

“We should watch the show from Nihon,” said Prince Enoch. “For balance, you know.”

“Very well,” sighed the King.

“Just a moment, Majesties, I’m just going to switch to the other site…” said the ADC.

They watched as as several figures entered the scene, then a shining light illuminated the room, portraying several men dressed as soldiers of Kaigun Rikiusentai, the Nihonese marines, in full battle gear, holding their rifles, standing solid almost without motion as if they were in battle, holding their rifles still and ready to shoot. A voice coming from choir echoed around:

The audience watched quietly.

“They are rather obsessed with defeating sodomy,” said Prince Enoch drily. “I think they left a few enemies out.”

“You are blithe, Prince,” said Minister Cotta. “The sodomite is one of the thin ends of the wedge…what’s so funny?”

Prince Enoch couldn’t stop laughing, but as Cotta was about to say anyting else he got another cold glance from the King, and shrank in his seat.

The King turned back to the screen, a cold bitter expression on his face briefly, composing himself with an effort.

“Well…” said Queen Mara, “That was…” as it came to an end. “Impressive sword play and discipline.”

“Our allies love their country,” said King Elijah. “They consistently support our moral virtues. What else?”

“There was this message from the….from the…” Countess Nabal hesitated. “Um…The Seven Regents of the Uudestisyntynyt Republic of Tödlichebujoku,” she finally managed to get out. “They say, in sum, that we ought to not censor so heavily, because e could be missing the good things in the contest, there’s more sir…”

“If thy right hand or eye offend thee, cut it off,” quoted General Ashdod.

“Indeed,” agreed Minister Balaam piously.

“They are also a traditionally homosexual nation,” added Count Sharra. “I wonder how that works?” The Minister of the Interior had quietly entered during the Nihonese song and video and had admired it thoughtfully, deciding that he ought to pay a visit to the place. He was an academic looking man, with thoughtful intelligent features, grey hair, wearing a rather aggy tropical suit that was of good cut and clean but very worn in.

“I’ll tell you one thing,” said General Ashdod, “I had this fellow Kultaiset Pievos looked into, and his song is hardly innocently a reminder of need for change. It states in the lyrics that the person or people aimed at in the song are to blame for betrayals and wrongdoing, the song is an accusation. I don’t think this message is as innocent as it sounds.”

Prince Enoch laughed. “you mean you watched the events of the day at WorldVision 43, well done.” The Miniter of Police reddened.

“But that’s interesting,” said Queen Mara. “What did you think of it?”

“What did I think?” General Ashdod forced himself not to look at the King but at the Queen, which was more pleasant anyway. “I thought it was a bunch of….well it was a bunch of squawking and vulgarity rally, not artistic at all, but I think ti bears more investigation. If only there had been capybaras, it might have actually been interesting. Say what you will about the Nihonese song, at least it’s about something real.”

“Emotions and matters of the heart are real as well,” said Mara softly. “They are what moves us to worship God and see his truths.”

“Speaking of ttuth,” said Balaam. “Have you all seen this? I think we can put it on the screen, can we hook my tablet up here?”

“Yes, Excellency,” said the ADC.
Poster Image

“Oh my, that’s vivid, what’s that about?” asked Queen Mara, repelled.

“That is a poster put together by the Free Congress,” said Balaam. “As said—in a way the Nihonese have a point. The LGBT agenda is presented as being innocent, merely a matter of the heart. As pointed out by the committee, the lyrics often seem innocent. The people the Five Regents represent have got it wrong—or maybe they have got it right, after all they are homosexuals themselves.”

“General?” asked the King of Ashdod. Queen Mara seemed suddenly disinterested and was petting ehr dog, Precious, speaking baby talk to it quietly.

“In my opinion, sir, I think we need further investigation. I think that Her Majesty and Prince Enoch are right—we need to figure this out better. It could be dealt with in different ways. After all, it was Your Majesty who promoted peace with Jedoria—whose leader is a homosexual, and with Deadora, whose ledership is feminist. Vile traditions but peace is more important, and it must be balanced. I think this is wise.”

The King showed no expression but said, “What was that yous aid earlier about capybaras, I meant to say?”

“Capybaras—oh capybaras, yes sir, I have always been fascinated by them, but alas, being a city lad, never had much time for them, which I always regretted. You are always seeing that image in film and in story—the stalward capybara farmer, pillar of our nation,” said General Ashdod with a smile.

“I see,” said the King, with a rare smile. “Well, we must speak of this more. I am going back to the estate tonight, but you shall accompany me, and we will go see my herds tomorrow. Thank you all, you have given me much to think of.”

“You insufferable creep,” said Balaam to Ashdod, who gave her a faint smile.

“He…didn’t even nod to me when he left,” murmured Cotta, still shaken. “What did I do?”

“You messed things up, we nearly had him, and you had to speak ill of his favourite farm animal, you damned fool,” said Balaam.

“Well, we cannot all have our finger on the royal pulse,” said Ashdod. “Oh, excuse me, both of you, I need to e sure to be with the royal convoy…”

[New Edom]

Betharan Palace

Following the departure of the King, Queen Mara bid him a good evening and went to her own chambers--which were several rooms including her workout room, her botany lab, her bathing chamber, bedroom and her entertainment center, which had big blue speakers, a wall mounted stereo/CD/DVD/i-system hookup, and lots of comfortable chairs. There was also an ince cream maker in the room, a crushed ice maker,a fridge and a nice comfy bed for Precious to loll around in. There was a basket of other dog toys, as some members of the royal family and friends also had dogs as pets.

Queen Mara spent some time in a video conference with a representative of the government to a biotech conference taking place in the nation of Callaban, discussing some ways of preemptively dealing with rice fungus. This was very important to people in some parts of the country and she wanted to be informed before she attended a meeting tomorrow. On the camera, Mara was wearing a necklace of beaten golden cornellian coins, the sign of victory of her ancestor, Adah the Liberator, whom she felt she resembled as much as Precious resembled a Rottweiler. Apart from a red tunic like shirt, the Queen was unclothed.

After this discussion, she checked out the responses internationally to the Chamber of Deputies' decision, and found the Yezhen Bespoko (With Simon Gasdano) link, and was listening, appalled, as the banter went on acidly.

Later that evening, Mara told her private therapist, Doctor Weinstein (from Adiron) about the whole thing including the radio show the poster, the contest, and all of it.

"You know," she said to this man who knew her better than a confessor, "I feel like i'm going crazy again. I need to ignore all this stuff. It makes me crazy. But I mean what a jerk--doesn' the understand it was a vote? That it wasn't 'New Edom", it was a bunch of people who got a ten percent majority in our national legislature, and that elijah and I don't even know what we want to do about it yet? I'm so tired of peole seeeing ALL of us as religious fanatics. I'm not a fanatic. Am I?"

Mara laughed at herself. "Yes, I wandered my country as a naked penitent. Yeah, maybe I am crazy. I felt the holy spirit guiding me. Now...I feel like I'm nothing but a consort. And all I cold imagine when seeing those beautiful women on that stage,..." Mara hugged herself. "But it's a sin, and I know it's wrong."

After talking to Weinstein, who always tried to make her feel better, she always felt like she wanted to drop everything, and that was a terrifying thought, selfish, sinful and wrong. Her devotion to her faith ahd brought peace to her country.

Mara later lay naked on her bed, her splendid rump curving from her supple well toned back, reading and glancing at her husband as he removed his clothing and went to join her.

"Listen to this, honey," she said to him. With her, alone, his eyes were gentle and tender, his manner quiet and kindly. "Tödlichebujoki society places a unique emphasis on homosexuality. It is seen as a holy rite to be practiced by all good people and also intrinsic to human nature, being a divine trait that elevates humans from simple animals. Actual procreation is accomplished via surrogate mothers, who are usually good friends of the couple involved and often raise them alongside their parents. Therefore, Tödlichebujokis tend to have a deep sense of community, especially when several families are interlinked in this manner. Tödlichebujoki ideals of love also uphold homosexuality- there is a distinction between a person's first, sexually motivated love, usually heterosexual but also possibly homosexual and always capricious, and a person's true love, which is always homosexual and thus lifelong. Those in the rural, more conservative or reactionary areas tend to believe that heterosexuality is a rejection of the gift of the gods and that heterosexuals are little more than animals, though this belief is declining as these people begin to see heterosexuals as regular human beings with a slightly different take on life."

"Yes, this sounds awfully familiar. Like Cacerta," said King Elijah, sitting on the bed beside her, gently stroking her from her upper back down to the hemispheres that swelled from her waist. "Do you have regrets?"

"Never, never," Mara said, tears flooding her eyes, taking his hand with a free one. "Never. We have done so much good for our people."

"And will continue to do," said Elijah. "Forget this gadfly on the foreign talk show circuit or whatever he is. It is a journalist's duty at times to provoke. He is poorly informed. Do they know we visited a head of state who is married to another man, broke bread with him, discussed improving relations? No. Do they now that one of our allies, Cacerta, is ruled by a pansexual queen? No. Do they know that our bitterest enemy, Deadora, ruled by the feminist throng of the Thrall dynasty is party to a detente with us? No. They do not understand, these gadflies, the balancing act, the difficulties we have in ruling this country. We must balance that against being a constitutional monarchy. You know all this, Mara dear."

Mara smiled up at him. "You're right of course. I would like to visit that country perhaps one day. If it wouldn't cause another civil war or something."

"We will visit New Decius next," said Elijah, kissing her sholder and laying beside her, caressing ehr still, as she turned slightly to return the favour. "And then we will visit Nihon, and other allies. We must reasure our people. Duty before everything."

"Yes, duty," Mara sighed. A child might distract her, might also put her sister and her cousin in their place properly. Perhaps tonight deep within their gametes would meet, and join together, and the zygote would develop and grow within her, a divine mystery that would shift from the world invisible to the eye and emerge into the light, and her deep distress would find oblivion in the love of motherhood....

[Dahon]

Nihankyo (literally "Hidden Palace", but only Kwannon knows what Sumire thinks of the name), Himei-shi, Kaname-ke.

Night, on the veranda.

A seated Sumire in grayish nightdress took her dark eyes off the laptop she was cradling in her, well, lap. She sighed, then slowly stood up from the whitewashed bench she was sitting on, carefully handling the laptop like the baby she never had in her slender arms, before placing it on the simple wooden picnic table beside her. Never a fan of ergonomics or any such health-improving set of rightful body posturing, she slouched down, again on the whitewashed bench, so that her legs were splayed apart on either side of the bench, and her hip-long dullish black hair, freed from their daytime rigors, went into spasmodic overdrive, some of them retangling themselves and some breaking free, making eager contact with the grassy ground. That way she could better count the twinkling stars above with every click of her tongue, a creature of habit grown rubbery fine with every lazing night out in the inviting darkness.

Ckuck, one. Ckuck, two. Ckuck, three. Ckuck, four.

She stopped, then thought of the little testy exchange she had with Izumi over the Net at the Punch. Just like her to rain on my parade, she thought, but then again, it's her birthday, and she wants to spend it working, the dog.

Ckuck, one. Ckuck, two. Ckuck --

-- just then a familiar cracked sound, not quite a crackle, not quite a cry, wafted from the door of her room. "Kami," spoke the well-worn voice that was from her trusted servant Misa, "the Yakumokami sent news. Urgent. Please come out and meet her messenger."

In the age of the Internet, and with only us two able to use it in this entire country -- three when Kiako comes back from that gala -- she settles for this. That pro forma document-in-triplicate uberbitch.

"OK, Misa, I'll see her after I dress up." Dahoni messengers in the service of the queendom are nearly always girls, given the unequal distribution of sexes in the country, with more than sixty percent of the native population composed of females. Probably why nearly every girl I know is a lesbian, mused Sumire, but then my social circle's limited at best.

---

After conferring with the messenger at her private quarters, traditionally the throne room of previous holders of the Red-Pink Throne (the royal throne of the Kanamekami), but now moved elsewhere as questions of the structural integrity of the floors below arose -- again seated in violation of the stern recommendations of ergonomists the world over -- and gathering all the news she could about New Edom and from the statement of support issued by Kiako's thesis subject lab experiment special pet Kojiro, all Sumire could do was shake her head and breathe deeply. Deeply. Again.

She did subscribe to various breathing exercises as a way of releasing stress; if it worked, then why not keep at it? Or so the logic went.

Truly, if far more technologically and economically advanced nations such as those of New Edom's and Nihon's were stepping over each other to deny other people -- citizens, subjects, pages, sages, outrages, grovellers, last velveteen pellets of some stirringly homophobic star system far far away -- the right to live their lives unhindered by the burdens of obligation and the cant of revelation, with LGBTs hated and mocked at and more, then we might be better off like this, she mused as she kept on breathing deeply, not difficult for her despite her contorted position and the barely suppressed discomfiture she saw from the messenger before her. I know Kiako won't like that -- I don't either -- but if we can keep on keeping on, maybe pull ourselves up by our bootstraps or something? I don't know if it's a good or bad thing I know jack about advanced economics beyond what my advisers tell me, and I usually funnel their yawnless yawping and yapping down to Sekijo anyway. (Matsumoto Sekijo, a former monk and somewhat disreputable character at court, was senior advisor to Sumire since she took her seat as the 37th Kanamekami [I hate that tile] eight years ago. She was definitely someone who could be trusted to keep her mouth shut and so largely keep the peace.)

Tonight, though, she judged, this was something not even someone of Sekijo's caliber can handle. This was something only a kami deals with, and while she nor that octospider Izumi with all her regs and rululations were capable enough for the task, she knew of someone else who was indeed capable, who was indeed a kami like herself (her heart sank as she thought of this) but very unlike herself, and who was at this very moment wooing girls (like Kiako of all people ever would care for piddling tufts by hoity-toities about same-sex marriage bans) a world away from her secret spot deep in the heart of. Of.

Of.

"OK, Aika -- that was your name, wasn't it?" The messenger so named nodded, and at this Sumire resumed, "You can return to Sekai with this message: I don't care, send that message to Kia-- I mean to the Suzukimami. Hm, I mean to the Sumuzikami. Oh fuck. Whatever. Just send it. She knows -- Izumi, and Kiako too -- that I don't care about governing. I'm just the glorified rubber-stamp of the queendom. And I think Kiako would get down to dissecting her special pet at some level, whether she's dancing at a gala or carousing anywhere else. You hear me? Good. Now repeat all that to her. Repeat all that to her by way of her stuck-up ass if need be. She doesn't need me any more than I need all this. All of this." At these last few words she raised her left arm at the direction of the ceiling, hand partly open, hand partly cupped.

But it was pretty apparent to all inside Sumire's quarters as to what she was raising her hand up against.

[The Selkie]

"This is Radio Cornwall 3 with the news at six o'clock - good evening!", the voice came out of the radios of many Selkie, be they small transistor radios, larger receivers, even in the odd car, which was sometimes seen in the Free Lands. "Yesterday, in a surprising move, the government of New Edom banned the World Vision Song Contest's broadcasts to their country, citing laws conflicting with previous broadcasts as the reasons. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other government institutions of the Free Lands refused to comment. Regardless, our boss has something to say. Fire away, Aiden!"
"Thanks, Finn.", another voice, older and more mature said, before turning to the audience, "Well, Ladies and Gentlemen, respect is everything. Respect for another people's laws means peace - that does not mean, to agree with said laws. I strongly disagree with some of the spirits of the laws, which made the broadcasts impossible, especially the anti-LGBT-stance of the New-Edomite Government and the so-called Morality Act. Still, we should do ourselves a favour and, as foreigners to them, respect their laws. As such, I am in favour of our government's decision to refuse any comment.
I just think, that it's sad. I am sure, that many of the contestants this year would not fall under the restrictions of the Morality act, with the people there now robbed of the chance to legally see them in action. As a musician myself, I mourn this - it's, from a musician's perspective, group punishment for the misdeeds of a certain few. I am sure, that one could find a technical solution, which would allow 'harmless' songs to be broadcasted, while the less harmless one could fall under the spell of an advertisement break or something.
Then again... music is art. Sometimes rather obscure, sometimes you struggle to see it, but it is art. And as such, it needs to be free. Used to express opinions about certain matters, yes, to give people a rallying cry when they need it - but other then that, it needs to be free and to be able to express itself as much as it likes in the forms it likes.
However, it is only my place to comment - and to announce, that Radio Cornwall 3 will broadcast the World Vision Song Contest in its full length. It sounds like fun." There was a short pause. "Back to you, Finn."
"Thanks, Aiden.", the news presenter continued. "In other news. Silverport Dockyards announced the so far..."

[Ekoz]

---

Kårnis, Ekoese -- CEO of the STE (Servå Televisie Ekoeses, known also as 'Ekoeses Televisie', Jørgi Ingosdottår, released this statement in regards to the situation in New Edom.

I am utterly appalled that the citizens of New Edom are once again let down by their backwards Government and are exposed to the narrow-mindedness and ignorance of their nation's seniors. Coming from a nation that allows freedom of sexuality, gender, speech and a list of protected rights that go past my ankles, I feel, with my position, it is a must that I and the STE allow these citizens the freedom to express themselves.

The STE was not planning on confirming its participation in the upcoming WorldVision Song Contest for quite some time, and neither were we going to release any information in regards to how Ekoz's song would be selected, however, as I was asked on the current affairs of New Edom, I am confirming that should any musician, band or professional/amateur writer and or composer wish to seek the freedom of expression will be invited with open arms to take part in "MelodieFestivålen" which will serve as a national selection. There will be no regulations in regards to subject, however with STE rules, should the song win the selection, it would have to be performed in the English language at WorldVision.

I will do my utmost whilst in my position to invite meetings and talks with the New Edom Government and the broadcasters within New Edom to drive a solution so that the New Edom people do not suffer. My team have already been in touch with the Government, but have not received any formal or informal response.

[The Resurgent Dream]

Official Statement
Department of Global Affairs

Although no Caldan nationals participated in WorldVision 43, we are nonetheless dismayed that New Edom has decided to close itself off to a contest wherein people from many nations shared their cultures, their traditions, and their musical talents. We, too, find the content of some of the entries troubling, although likely for different reasons and from a different perspective. However, the reality is that we live in a vast world with an array of cultures, of values, and of voices. Cultural engagement, as much as economic and military ties, builds peace. No one benefits from an enforced ignorance of even the most distasteful aspects of world culture. We sincerely hope New Edom will reconsider this issue.

The policy of this government is to treat this as an opportunity. The Caldan Union has had little contact with New Edom in the past, despite the latter nation's ties to some of our Western Atlantic neighbours. As New Edom continues to emerge as an increasingly prominent actor on the world stage, our policy is to seek a better and more formal relationship.

[Electrum]

Centralis Herald - Entertainment Section - Alexandra Dupree

Some nation somewhere bans the WorldVision Song Contest

It was quite surprising to see the international reaction when New Edom, a nation completely unrelated to the WorldVision song contest deciding to ban it anyways in their nation. Although it is true that many oppressive nations despise WorldVision for the ideals that they espouse, other so-called 'oppressive' nations such as Gregoryisgodistan and The Sword Bloke still participate and send entries into the WorldVision song contest. It all started by an article by Annabelle Barca, for the Fineberg Times that New Edom was to ban screenings of the WorldVision Song Contest.

The movement was spearheaded by Marius Campion, who said that, there was a certain "laxity in the enforcing of moral public programming in our country." It is always sad to see a suppression of the basic fundamental human right of freedom of expression losing out to a moral system of all things. But, it is true that moral compasses do change over time, so the Centralis Herald sees that New Edom will eventually accept LGBT rights, whether or not they are resistant to the change -- it is only a matter of when. By actively trying to ban WorldVision, what they are really trying to do is bring even more attention to the issue, which always brings people to the side of LGBT rights.

In a three-way interview this morning on Sunrise Today between host Carlos Olivera and perennial and award-winning Electrum commentators Sonya Portelli and Max Hardwell revealed some interesting tidbits about the WorldVision Song Contest. Sonya Portelli said that, "It's just funny that they used our commentary of all things to justify at least part of the article, when we were commentating on that brilliant song from the Attican Republic. I think it's just rubbish that they are trying to overrule free speech anywhere, it just never works." Max Hardwell chipped in, "At least they didn't talk about the recent nearly-nude songs from the Free Republics, especially that rape song this edition..."

In essence, Sonya and Max argued on Sunrise Today that the uniqueness of the WorldVision contest came from the various cultural quirks, differing traditions, and differing view of the world -- and that should be respected. Indeed, various highlights have included all of Rick Leg's entries, the various ways Gregoryisgodistan has murdered slaves and audience members, the Associated Godlands oft-ignored religious songs, and of course, the eternal grumblings from Gertrude Pullman from the Electrum Diplomatic Offices.

In other news, Network ENN has kept silent about the next Electrumite WorldVision entry. There are rumours that they may do a political song, in light of the current circumstance, for example one supporting LGBT rights. The Diplomatic entry will once again be headed up by Gertrude Pullman, though it remains to be seen what song she will choose to sing, as she is also competing in the Olympics in both the table tennis and the women's swimming marathon event. The Electrum Olympic Committee, as tradition, kept silent as to the contents of the Opening Ceremony, but it promises to be exciting. Who knows, maybe we'll see another LGBT message there too.

[New Edom]

New Edomite National News Report

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

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

“The controversy over the banning of the WorldVision Song Contest continues, in a battle of the airwaves in which a number of foreign shows have condemned this decision. Among the most recent was Selkies’ Radio Cornwall 3. Here’s a clip:”

As a musician myself, I mourn this - it's, from a musician's perspective, group punishment for the misdeeds of a certain few. I am sure, that one could find a technical solution, which would allow 'harmless' songs to be broadcasted, while the less harmless one could fall under the spell of an advertisement break or something.
Then again... music is art. Sometimes rather obscure, sometimes you struggle to see it, but it is art. And as such, it needs to be free. Used to express opinions about certain matters, yes, to give people a rallying cry when they need it - but other then that, it needs to be free and to be able to express itself as much as it likes in the forms it likes.

“In another article from the Centralis Herald’s writer Alexandra Dupree, from the Nation of Electrum, the content of the Annabelle barca article in the Fineberg Times was quoted—somewhat derisively,” said Lavinia Tuller, raising an eyebrow.

In a three-way interview this morning on Sunrise Today between host Carlos Olivera and perennial and award-winning Electrum commentators Sonya Portelli and Max Hardwell revealed some interesting tidbits about the WorldVision Song Contest. Sonya Portelli said that, "It's just funny that they used our commentary of all things to justify at least part of the article, when we were commentating on that brilliant song from the Attican Republic. I think it's just rubbish that they are trying to overrule free speech anywhere, it just never works." Max Hardwell chipped in, "At least they didn't talk about the recent nearly-nude songs from the Free Republics, especially that rape song this edition..."

“The response to this from Dr. Marius Campion was “if we had mentioned every offensive thing that this contest features, we’d have to have an intermission and refreshments for listeners.””

“Mr. Lucius Nimrod, one of the leaders of the national movement called Free Hearts and Minds has said that there has been a growing disaffection with the Morality Act since the First Civil War.”

Lucius Nimrod, a thin man with dark hair and a calm measured voice, has his image shown with a voice over saying “The Morality Act is past its time. Only a minority of the country really believe in it, but they are such a vehement determined minority that they affect the rest of the country. I do not want to break any of my country’s laws, I love my country and so do the others in our movement. Free Hearts and Minds is about having laws that reflect a nation with more religious and social diversity than existed when the Morality Act was drafted.

“I think that Centralis Herald article as well as others made a really good point. There are a lot of uplifting pieces from the wroldVision Song contest. I was moved to tears by the introductory song from the current one. It was a song about loneliness and the struggle to be strong in the face of it, from my perspective, something all people everywhere can relate to at one time or another in their lives. Even the one about twerking that was derided so much in the Barca article—it’s about a woman lamenting being sexually exploited as far as I can tell not celebrating the actions. I would like to see a lot more discussion in our country before we just ban something as wide in perspective as WorldVision.”

“In other foreign efforts to affect the policy of banning the WorldVision Song Contest, the CEO of the STE (Servå Televisie Ekoeses, known also as 'Ekoeses Televisie',) Jørgi Ingosdottår has made a statement expressing the desire to openly persuade the New Edomite government to not ban the contest, quoted partly here:

I will do my utmost whilst in my position to invite meetings and talks with the New Edom Government and the broadcasters within New Edom to drive a solution so that the New Edom people do not suffer.

“The Resurgent Dream’s Department of Global Affairs issued this statement in response to hearing of the ban.” Behind Lavinia Tuller the flag of the Resurgent Dream, a crowned wingede lion, appeared as the statement was read by a New edomite translator.

The policy of this government is to treat this as an opportunity. The Caldan Union has had little contact with New Edom in the past, despite the latter nation's ties to some of our Western Atlantic neighbours. As New Edom continues to emerge as an increasingly prominent actor on the world stage, our policy is to seek a better and more formal relationship.

“Dr. Paul Aphek, our Minister of Foreign Affairs, has said that the government will be gladly receiving any messages, envoys and discussion of this subject.”

An elegant looking man in a light grey tropical suit, with wavy graying hair and tanned distinguished looking weathered features, speaks in a relaxed manner sitting behind a rosewood desk. “As an academic myself, I am glad to consider all angles of this question. Of course we are a constitutional monarchy and as such we must be swayed by what the people want. We will do our best to be entirely informed of all points of view about this. I welcome any discussions with foreign governments or organizations on this issue.”

“There have been protests on both sides fo the question. On the one hand, nearly four hundred people showed up at the headquarters of the Intellectual Party tos how their appreciation for Claudius Glaber’s stance on the ban, Many of these were art students from Fineberg University as well as poets, authors and musicians who believe that the arts in our country needs either more freedom or more funding which allows for freedom of expression.

“On the other hand, National wisdom, Christian Socialist and Free Congress supporters in Harbourtown, Fineberg and Nass held demonstrations insisting that the Monarchs sign the ban into law and define the Morality Act’s position on censorship of the arts clearly. The Monarchs have not yet responded, but Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain, the Royal Master of Offices, had this to say:”

A handsome dark haired man in a white naval uniform speaking gravely on camera with microphones near him says “Their Majesties will be reviewing this matter thoughtfully and carefully. I would like to emphasize that this ban is not yet an official interpretation of law. It cannot be enforced without the approval of the Monarchs signing this legislation into law or following their refusal the second vote in the Chamber of Deputies. That is the law of our country.”

“In spite of Prince Enoch’s remarks, the contest has in fact been banned in a number of parts of the country as Ministry of Culture officials have already been putting it into effect with the support of Ministry of Justice officials. According to Deputy Minister of Justice Peter Misbel:”

”We are acting in accordance with already existing laws. My understanding is that this is not a new legislation, but is an interpretation of an existing one which has been on the books iince the 1980s. Unless we are specifically told otherwise, we are doing our duty.”

With a smile, lifting her hands a moment, Lavinia Tuller said, “And so the controversy over the WorldVision Song Contest continues. And we will be back after messages when we will hear about what’s going on with Ikon Geophysical Company’s latest discoveries in the far north of our Region. Remember that NENN is the main spot on your television to hear news about Bird City Fun World’s annual contest—win a free trip for the whole family to New Edom’s number one amusement park…”

[New Edom]

Betharan Palace,
Fineberg, New Edom

At the Forum Iduemeun Mall, the Municipal Militia had to be called in as a mob of angry supporters of the Free Congress had seized a van delivering t-shirts after a tip, and took out pallets of t-shirts and posters advertising WorldVision to burn them. The Municipal Militia were reluctant to interfere and came in small numbers. Complaints from the vendors, the delivery company and mall administration had been lodged with the Ministry of Justice and the Ethnarch of Fineberg’s office.

There were also demonstrations going on downtown, with demonstrators holding up signs that read such things as KING AND QUEEN, KEEP US CLEAN!

“What is that, a soap advertisemen?” said Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain, holding up a picture of the protet on his tablet before putting it down. “You contradicted me on public television, Misabel.”

The Deputy Minister of Justice said, “I assure Your Excellency I did not even know you were being interviewed at the same time. These journalists love to stir up trouble. Maybe the Ministry of Culture should remind them whose olive oil they are dipping their bread into.” He was a tall, thin middle aged man with a very wrinkled face like an old hound, sunken eyes and while untitled came from a very old Baran family.

The two men were sitting in a pair of comfortable chairs near the window of the office. The Minister of Justice was visiting the hospital for testing as she had been feeling faint and ill lately.

“Regardless, the King and Queen have instructed me to instruct you that you will cease all interference with the contest and do your duty to protect those who are advertising for it until legislation has passed properly.” Prince Enoch said sternly.

Misbel hesitated a moment, and dithered with his mint tea. “I appreciate Your Excellency’s concern, and greatly respect that the Monarchs have given their instructions. I wold like to suggest that before I carry out these instructions that we have the views of the Chief Justice involved.”

“What?” exclaimed Prince Enoch. “You impudent rat, these are orders.”

“I remind Your Excellency that this is a constitutional monarchy, and that the peace of our nation depends on observing that at all times. We are seeing both conservative and radical elements coming together on this.” Misabel said, his eyes lowered but his manner firm.

“And I remind you, Mr. Misabel, that the conservative and radical elements are not the only ones out there demonstrating and protesting. Students, artists, poets, intellectuals are saying that the decision is not one with which they agree. They have just as much right to levy support as the others do. In the meantime, you are demonstrating a bias.” Prince Enoch put his own teacup down. “And let me remind you: the Chamber of Deputies does not control your appointment.”

Misabel nodded, his eyes still lowered. “As Your Excellency instructs.” He paused and took up his own tablet. “Have you seen this?”

Prince Enoch watched the video, and sighed. “Yes, now I have. Good Lord. But still, what I said stands.”

"It breaks the law, does it not?" said Misabel.

"Yes, but damn it that's an argument for censoring the show here, not banning it altogether. The opening number, "Goodbye to Yesterday", is just fine." Prince Enoch insisted.

“Has the King seen this particular number, the, er, rape me song??” said Misabel.

“No, he has not, and I doubt he’d even finish watching it—Misabel as I’m sure you are aware the King ahs very old fashioned, conventional tastes in music, but the Queen does not, the queen is very up to date in the breadth of her fondness for the arts.” Prince Enoch said. “And she is by no means decided on the artistic merits of the contest.”

“The people believe that two monarchs so pious and good as King Elijah and Queen Mara will make the right decision,” observed Misabel “And the demonstrations show that they believe that right decision would be banning the contest.”

Enoch nodded slowly. “You may be right. But the Intellectual Party as well as many artists, poets, authors, musicians, students in this country disagree with the views of the National Wisdom Party, the Christian Socialiss and the free Congress.”

Misabel said, “From a realistic position, sir, have you considered that this could be building a coalition in the chamber through…let’s be honest, an unimportant issue? It might be better to give them no where to go on this.”

“What are you saying?” Prince Enoch demanded.

“Im suggesting caution and as you say, following the processes of our constitution until we’re sure of what our government needs to do. I take it, sir that the King and Queen have still not made a decision?”Misabel asked deferentially.

Enoch took a long moment, and then sighed. “No, they have not.”

“They have a week at least sir, unless they specifically request a delay,” Misabel said politely. “May I recommend that Your Excellency suggest that we simply maintain the status quo until they are sure?” Misabel spread his hands.

“Try to have your Militia show some more zeal. That is what the King wants. At least make ti clear that all our citizens will be protected by the law,” Prince Enoch said.

“Of course, Your Excellency, I quite understand. The matter of the bans being enforced—a matter for the Ministry of Culture, I’m afraid.”

“I’ll talk to Cotta about that next,” said Prince Enoch. He smiled then. “Ever since that capybara remark, Cotta has been in the head, the wrong way up.”

Misabel smiled. “I hope His Majesty realizes that I personally love capyaras.”

[The Resurgent Dream]

Department of Global Affairs
Tarana, the Resurgent Dream

The Department of Global Affairs was one of those grand old buildings from the early days of the nation, built shortly after the hardships of the Jacobite Wars in Vasconia but before the growth of a labyrinthine bureaucracy. The interest then had been not efficiency or economy but the celebration of Caldan nationhood and to impress the world with the grandeur of the Caldan Stuarts, who were then still seeking the respect and recognition of other royal dynasties. It was built in the same Gothic Revival style as St. Andrew's Palace, Parliament, and most of the other prominent buildings lining St. Andrew's Park and it had always made Patrick Dobbs think of a palace or a cathedral more than an office building. Beautiful to look at but he had never managed to get used to it as a day-to-day place of business.

Dobbs himself was an older man given to calm, stern expressions and conservatively cut dark suits. He kept his office spare but elegantly decorated. His bookshelf held leather-bound copies of the classics, major works on foreign affairs, and the holy books of most major world religions, although his Bible had pride of place. The only decorations were a picture of Queen Gwendolyn and a small painting of Charles I crossing the Sandy River. He had come up when the Department of Global Affairs was still called the Foreign Office and most career civil servants had been good, sound men from the shires such as himself. Perhaps he was the sort of man conservative Edomites could relate to but that wasn't why he had been selected as the official envoy of Her Majesty's Government. Dobbs had been cultural attaché at the Caldan embassy to Pantocratoria when the New Edomites were making advances to the Pantocratorian government, seeking to unite over these very issues. It didn't make him an expert and, as he prepared to depart, he was still shuffling through the papers on his desk, trying to remember the Edomite political parties. There weren't that many, truly, but they did not fit easily into the categories Dobbs was used to working with. His work was interrupted by the sound of foreign music. 'Must you do that now? I'm trying to work.'

The youngish blonde woman arched an eyebrow as piercing blue eyes met Dobbs's. Katherine Landless, better known by her stage name of Mizzi, was leaning back in her chair and chewing gum, watching some sort of music video on her smartphone. Her curvy figure was dressed conservatively for once in a navy blue women's suit with black pumps but it did nothing to take away from her insouciant attitude. 'I'm studying,' she said calmly. 'This is some video from New Aeyarris supporting the ban. It's f...It's nuts.'

'Just let me take the lead in New Edom,' Dobbs said resignedly. He didn't really want to take Mizzi, who he thought was evidence of a Prime Minister whose head had been turned by the embrace of Caer Gawen and particularly of beautiful and famous women and as likely to make a rather poor impression on their hosts. She was straight, had never publicly shown her bare breasts or genitals, and certainly hadn't sung invitations to rape, but her performances did emphasise her body, her music was unelevated and sometimes crude, and she'd been in a lot of controversies about cultural appropriation, although Dobbs wasn't quite sure he grasped the criticism.

When Mizzi nodded, he glanced at the young woman sitting next to her. Corinna Goldfard, the daughter of a former Labour Leader and Governor of Marlund, was a few years older than Mizzi. She had night black hair worn at shoulder-length and wore a perpetually eager expression on her round face. At least she was a professional. Nodding to both women, Dobbs started for the door. 'Very well. We have a plane to catch.'

[New Edom]

Fineberg, New Edom

Several major modern international airlines had regular travel to New edom from out of region, including ones from ViZion, Ainin, Bederich and so on. From the air, a green mass of land met a large silvery estuary and a spread out city on low rolling country surrounded by greenery and farmaland with smaller villages and towns around it.

The international airport itself was a steel and glass construction of grand design, intended to resemble a classical forum but in modern materials. Seniro officials would be met formally by New Edomite officials—a portly man with thinning hair and glasses wearing a white tropical suit, who introduced himself as Basil Jerome, the Undersecretary of Transregional Affairs. There were black Chaikas waiting for the Caldan officials and any aides they had, and military personnel helped them with their baggage as well as acting as drivers and saluting as the senior official entered his car. These soldiers wore a white kepi with a black bill, a blue short sleeved shirt and black trousers tucked into boots, with a sidearm.

Basil Jerome bowed politely, as Edomites tended to prefer this to shaking hands. “The Minister and Senior Undersecretary are very eager to meet with you,” he said with great warmth. “I hope you do not mind the temperature today here, it is a bit muggy I’m afraid, we are expecting some good rain in a day or so, but until then…” he shrugged.

It would be hard for a foreigner to immediately notice anything was up in Fineberg. The main stretch not far from the airport was a large industrial district, with big factories spread out in large fenced off areas. Like satellites around the factories were service companies that had yards of materials, pools of big construction vehicles and shops including ones that sold linens, catered food or provided services like cleaning.

A view from the cars on the was to the Foreign Ministry revealed a lot of small markets or stretches fo shops, a lot of traditional houses like bungalows or low apartment buildings. In fact there were very few buildings taller than fifteen stories in Fineberg.

Wide boulevards lined with cedars, live oaks and palms enabled ltos fo traffick, but there were not many private cars. A lot more buses, trucks, vans, and other larger scale transit. There were also city rail lines with electric trains that moved along clean lines that avoided the main traffic. Some areas of the city looked ancient, with classical pillared buildings with arches, domed churches, ancient weather brick, others looked brand new.

Occasional sights would greet them such as a group of naked mendicants painted yellow with black crosses standing chanting while people put money in bowls as they passed by. At one point the convoy had to brake for a large flightless carnivorous bird with black and white feathers passing by, glancing around arrogantly. The bird was roughly the size of a cassowary but had a hooked bill like a secretary bird’s and a similar light build. “Someone call animal control,” murmured the sergeant who was driving the lead car into his radio. The bird did not attack anyone, and seemed to be puzzled as it glanced around fiercely.

“This happens sometimes, “explained Basil Jerome. “There’s been some habitat disruption for the Lesser griffon. It’s one of the sub-species of our national bird, the Griffon. Our largest predators are birds.”

Jerome explained that what they wanted was to make sure that the Caldan officials had every opportunity to speak to the people they needed to but all that had been arranged so far was to make sure that the had a place to stay—compliments of the New edomtie government—at the Majestic Hotel, the best hotel in town, as well as meeting with the Foreign Minister.

The Foreign Ministry

"This is the worst possible time for them to come," said Dr. Paul Aphek.

Elizabeth Corbulo, the Senior Undersecretary, was a woman of Cornellian heritage, with a fair all over tan, short, pear shaped with a big (and by Edomite standards beautiful bottom, a raven pageboy haircut, and wearing a dark green formal dress and sandals. "I agree, Excellency but it cannot be helped," said Corbulo calmly. "But let us put on a good show of things. It must be demonstrated that we take this seriously."

"This," said Dr. Aphek with a shake of his head. "This! Oh well, we must be hospitable."

The New Edomite Foreign Ministry was a building that had existed since New Edom was still part of the Cornellian Empire, and had a neo-classical look to it. Polished granite steps, geometric deisgns with big mosiac crosses in the floors, archways, domed ceiling in the foyer, and paintings of monarchs--medieval David the Landsrider and David the Lawgiver; solemn Queen Adah the Liberator, soldierly King Mark I in his full unifiorm loomed.

The Minister's chambers they were brought to were comfortably appointed and airy. The walls were a light coloured wood paneling, the flor similar with blue and green ornamental rugs, and the chairs almost more suited to a luxurious afternoon of polo, made of white wicker and padded with comfortable embroidered cushions. A low table had refreshments on it: chilled mint tea with honey, carafes of fizzy water with crushed ice in them and bottles of fruit juice to add; iced strong sweet coffee or plain chilled water were available. (Basil Jerome, when making the arrangements, would have warned the Caldans that it was polite to at least accept something, even if only to sip or nibble a little). There were also cinnamon biscuits, candied almonds, cheese and pistachio pastries, and slices of oranges, bunches of grapes and carrots cut into the shape of little sheaves of grain on the table on blue and whtie dishes of antique make.

"My dear guests, welcome to our Foreign Ministry," said Dr. Aphek more as though they were unexpected freinds who had arrived than diplomatic officials he had to put up with, as though he was delighted and truly honoured. "I am Dr. Paul Aphek, honoured to be Foreign Minister to Their Majesties. And this is my most beloved and wise Undersecretary, Elizabeth Corbulo." Both bowed. Elizabeth Corbulo up close was one of those short but energetic women, with an intelligence in her more charming than pretty face.

"So welcome, we were most touched by your communiques," she murmured, putting a hand over her heart.

"Please, do sit and enjoy some refreshments, I apologize for the scarcity of my table but if there is anything else I can bring to you, you have but to say," said Dr. Aphek.

[New Aeyariss]

OFFICIAL NOTE FROM THE GOVERNMENT OF THE EMPIRE OF GREATER NIHON:

---

"LOYALTY, HONOR, RIGHTEOUSNESS!"

---

ATTN: All parties concerned about the WorldVision Song Contest Ban.
From: The Government of the Empire of Greater Nihon; Ministry of External Affairs.
SUBJECT: An official statement.
ENCRYPTION: OFFICIAL

---

The Ministry of External Affairs wishes to communicate the following to all all governments involved in condemnation of New Edomite WorldVision Song Contest ban;

Our government has to protest the condemnations of New Edom regarding said nation's government decision banning WorldVision Song Contest issued 17.11.2015. While, it has to be noted, the Government of the Empire of Greater Nihon does not believe that homosexuality per se is a criminal offense, though we can agree that this is highly disgusting and unwanted behaviour, we have to state our deepest proclamation of dennounciation of claims issued by several nations, who, in opinion of our government, are pursuing pro - homosexual agenda aimed at enforcing pro - LGBT world view at multiple persons who do not agree with it, often at national level.

Referring to communique issued by the seven regents of Todlichebujoku, day 18 November 2015, our government acknowledges their statements, and so are we sure that the government of New Edom does; however, considering that this issue affects also the Nihonese society, which, in overwhelming manner, shares the same positions and world view as New Edomites; we do not believe that any sort of change is necessary. Our government does not acknowledge that homosexuality is bad because religion says so; the divine laws of Heavenly Father, being perfect by their nature, always have scientific confirmation. To our government, the issue of homosexuality goes far further than just a moral question, debated by the theologians and experts on ethics, into question that must be answered by the government to take a proper response. While our state is a secular institution, many people in our government are believing Christians, and so are majority of the Nihonese people; and our government that while state and Church should be separate, state and morality should not, since divine law of Heavenly Father encoded in the Bible provides clear and proper moral instructions for every person of every faith.

Since the times when Shogun Chosokame no Yorimoto, first Christian Shogun and first Shogun of Chosokame Shogunate, in 1535 forbade any practice of sodomy, homosexuality has been greatly restricted in the Empire of Greater Nihon, even in times of Liberal Administration of PM Goh Kazushi (1977-1989) pursuing pro - LGBT policy. Our government has multiple views why it will uphold policy of Nihon's founder, and wishes to state them here:

First, while homosexuality is, according to our government's views, NOT to be restricted in the private space, when it goes out of private space it becomes a public affair. Second, our government believes that many of the LGBT movements are neither peaceful, nor tolerant, and their sole goal is to push - through various tactics that can be only falsifying evidence or scientific research and infiltration of governmental structures in order to push their agenda forward. A study conducted by Ministry of National Security in early 2007 revealed that often those groups possessed organized structures tasked with spreading homosexual propaganda. It is certainly understandable that the Nihonese people do not wish to have such worldview imposed over them, since according to attached document majority of them follow government's opinion in this regard.

Furthermore, our government wishes to communicate that it does not believe that homosexuality as a biological activity is any more beneficial to Nihonese citizens than pedophilia, which our government believes has close links to homosexuality, as every sexual deviation lacking biological purpose. According to attached study conducted by the Medical University of Ishikawa in 2012, it is our view that homosexuality is characterized by behaviors that are inherently harmful and pose a risk to mental health and medical security of the Nihonese nation.

Finally, our government has to state that homosexuality is a perfect chance to be a tool of social demoralisation, being important part of Information Warfare - thus a subversive action against Nihonese people. It is a view of the Nihonese government that somebody pursuing a intentional policy to demoralize Nihon is nothing more than a criminal.

Therefore, our government officially urges the concerned parties to recognize the Nihonese people's right to self - determination, and follow similar policy to our allied government of New Edom. It is in view of External Affairs Ministry that relations between New Edom, Nihon and concerned parties would develop far better and far more peacefully if said governments recognized the sovereign right of our governments to ban materials our governments consider harmful. It has to be noted, however, that our government will pursue our independent internal policy in this regard.

Heavenly Father Bless;

---

ISSUED: 20.11.2015

SIGNED:
- Maki Kojiro, Shogun of the Empire of Greater Nihon.
- Takeda Kenji, Minister of the External Affairs of the Empire of the Greater Nihon.

---

RESULTS OF RESEARCH OF MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF ISHIKAWA, 2012:
- Amount of homosexuals engaging in anal sex increased from 57% to 61%, while amount of those who used protection decreased from 60% to 55%.

- 35% of homosexuals engaged in unprotected sex with multiple partners.

- 37% of homosexuals in Nihonese hospitals diagnosed with HIV admitted that they had unprotected sex without informing of the HIV status, while 45% of them did not knew their HIV status.

- 43% of male homosexuals had sex with more than 200 partners while 23% with more than 500.

- Few homosexual relationships last longer than two years.

- 7 out of 100 homosexuals were loyal to their partners while in relationship.

- Homosexuals are far more prone to STDs than heterosexuals. In fact there is 50% chance of catching viruses during gay sex, even with protection.

- More than half of lesbians have been abused by their female lovers.

- 75% of 2000 homosexuals asked for some sort of counseling after problems from their relationships.

[Owner-osity]

OWNER-OSITY TV ANNOUNCEMENT

Upon news of the WorldVision song contest outbreak in New Edom and other countries, Owner-Osity TV have announced that if they enter the WVSC Contest for its 44th Contest after a three edition break, that they would sing a song about how those nations who boycott the contest suck.

Owner-Osity TV Spokesperson Marcus Ambergs announced today: "We would kill people with the flags of these nations on their backs, painted" said Ambergs, who also said "Though our songs, and the songs of The Sword Bloke, the home of our God always involve some type of death and that if New Edom or any other nation criticised Shop Owner, that whoever said that would be killed in an instant by our God, Shop Owner."

The Swordean public apparently love this idea, however, it is unknown whether Owner-osity will even enter the contest, and if the song will be mostly based around another topic or all about these nations.

Marcus Ambergs said also that "Songs sung by singers from The Sword Bloke & Owner-osity such as Shop Owner Style from the 39th edition of the contest, Public Executions Do It All from the 36th, Shop Owner is King, Dancing Death, Tick Tock Tonight, which involved the death of some spectators, and the recent Swordean Entry 'Ballad of Death' by Shop Owner were all popular in the Ownerlasian Area of Esportiva, and that Shop Owner would punish all who criticised."

Shop Owner said that 'I would punish anyone from these countries who criticises our song, and our next song will hopefully involve the death of nearly a million people. It will be fun seeing Owner-osity offend these nations. It will be fun for me to punish all who offend us. It will also be fun to make up another entry for The Sword Bloke, that will hopefully propel us to at least 18th, which would give us our best ever position."

Ambergs closed discussion by wishing death to all who offended, hoping that nobody would find the link to the songs he mentioned, or he will be killed. Really, No WorldVision in these countries means we can offend them to the point of wishing whole countries death. It will just be more fun for us is the basis of 99.9% of comments on the 'OWNOST TODAY' website. More fun for songwriters in the Ownerlasian nations, it seems. Yes, so it seems.

[Electrum]

Network ENN Commentary - Ishikawa Hall

Max Hardwell: Right. So after travelling to Monterra for the WorldVision song contest, I am now back in Electrum. But since Sonya is so busy with the Olympic preparations, and planing for the Olympic opening ceremony, they have decided to ask me to commentate over (sighs) The Empire of Greater Nihon's concert thingy reply to the WVSC. Oh well. At least I'm getting paid to watch this crap.

Max: Boring, insipid, uninspiring lyrics right off the bat. Those who sacrifice their lives won't be forgotten forever... Just doesn't sound cohesive, and those last two words don't flow at all. And yes, we've got soldiers on the stage. What did you expect?

Max: Then we've got the mock battle, and the wretched electronica music. Seriously worst combo ever. Then we got the kimonos. This makes as much sense as purple monkey dishwasher.

Max: And then we have Ms. Sook singing to her husband Mr. Sob. I mean it's just ironic isn't it? They say they hate sodomy, but the more Mr. Sob keeps saying sodomy, the more I get the feeling that he like to say the word. It's a cool word. Even the Gregoryisgodistan and The Sword Bloke can create more inventive lyrics and an act rather than this drivel. I mean if you want people to be scared of sodomy, why do you keep mentioning it? Now that you've said sodomy so many times, it seems more acceptable. In fact, I've used it quite a lot in the past minute. I should stop...

Max: Okay, we're at the point where they're all singing together again. Yawn, anti-LGBT again. How uncivilised to have such blatant misrepresentation of the facts, and having the military to do the dirty work. These Nihonese have no shame. At least they got good kicks. Why not they put it to good use -- kick each other in the nuts so they can sterilise themselves, rather than letting LGBT doing the work for them.

Max: Spectacular feats... sure whatever. Is it relevant to the song? No. Then they burnt the LGBT flag. What a laughing stock to the rest of the world! What a truly backwards nation! Oh glorious Nihon, stuch in the Middle Ages, no one gives a crap about you. If this is a taster of the "Nihonese Tale Song Festival 2015" then I don't want to see the contest. Imagine four hours of this clap trap, and I doubt anyone would even want to participate in it anyways. They can't even choreograph properly, or link the performance to the song, or even write half-decent lyrics. Heck, even their choir was crap. I do admit, it's very rare to see 'choir' type songs at all in WorldVision. The only one I can think of is Bad Nazi's performance, which is miles ahead of this one. Nihon, stick to what you do best, being a war-mongering nation that no-one in their right mind cares about. I salute the Swordeans for sticking up to them in their new song, should they choose to go ahead.

[New Edom]

To: CEO of the STE (Servå Televisie Ekoeses, known also as 'Ekoeses Televisie', Jørgi Ingosdottår
From: Dr. Maria Shillito, Director of Arts and Entertainment, Ministry of Culture, Allied States of New Edom
Subject: WorldVision Song Contest
Encryption: Mild (permission given to publish

---

Thank you very much for your overtures of friendly discussion.

As an academic, a former music teacher and a patron of the arts, I never advocate censorship lightly. It always grieves me when I must endorse a recommendation for censorship brought across my desk. I am very aware of the responsibility that is before me, as my minister will often listen to my recommendations, and then the King and Queen will hear his, and so on. During my testimony before our national legislature, the chamber of deputies, I was required to as honestly as possibly present the views within my department.

It is the current position of this Department that we must be guided by the laws of our country at all times. Our country has struggled towards peace through civil wars and uprisings, through foreign incursions and depredations, and we must not take lightly that which binds us together in peace.

Our laws are, under our constitution, being carefully reviewed by our legislative bodies, which is a process being protected by teh office of the heads of state and their appointed ministers. Every aspect of the Morality Act is being reviewed, and it has generally been supported by the Chamber of Deputies. If you have been following our news, however, this is by no means universal.

I myself have no power to do anything more than interpret how I carry out my instructions as a civil servant. Policy is determined by the heads of state, their appointed ministers, after consensus is established by the Chamber of deputies. It is between those two--the Monarchs and the Deputies--that you will find a decision that will please or displease you.

I hope this letter has answered some of your questions and concerns.

I have the honour to be
Dr. Maria Shillito
Director of Arts and Entertainment
The Ministry of Culture

New Edomite National Arts and Entertainmetn Broadcast

More Music
Artist Heavenly Days
Label Micronaut Records
Song Days of Thrones

(rl tune: Days of Elijah)
Background Heavenly Days is an increasingly popular folk rock band in new Edom, with Jesse Mintaka as lead and keyboard, Caleb Shunts on lead guitar, Viola Crolech on bass, Michal Shunts on drums. Caleb and Michal are brother and sister. This group of young artists got their start in an Isidium Foundation refugee camp near Glasstower, New Edom, when the Adiran charity did a drive to get local artists good instruments and equipment as part of a dream foundation support for the arts. Their performances helped raise spirits in the encampment and encouraged people, and they went from amateur performances to professional when they were engaged by Canopus Fade, an agent in Fineberg.

“We are not ETC, though we have gone to edenist services and honoured them gladly. We are not Apostolic, though we do all the proper rites for the sacraments before we enter an Apostolic Church. We are nto Protestants, though we respect the need to avoid ostentation and focus on the Bible directly. We are Edomite Christians who follow the example of the legendary King David in that we live lives of constant worship and praise,” the band has collectively said.

Music Video

The video begins with vivid HD quality scenes from the 3rd Civil War, including foreign news footage. A camera jerks as explosions ripple across the skies of the city of Harbourtown, New Edom. Naked militia painted white and blue carrying AK-74s rush across a street. A tank scatters a screaming crowd. From the deck of a carrier, a fighter jet screams into the sky. A bus full of refugees crawls through the crowds on a road choked with other refugees, eyes staring, haunted faces in grief. Mounted Guardsmen with gas masks and body armour on waving riot batons and riot shotguns charge a crowd of demonstrators. These images are interspersed with glimpses of the band’s instruments and hands, faces closed and in intense concentration as though deeply troubled but trying to focus.

Fingers fly across the keyboard, and the camera focuses on where, on a simple stage, filmed in black and white, Jesse Mintaka sings:

These are the days of Elijah
Our King bearing justice’s sword!

The video shows an image of King Elijah as a Vice-Admiral, a tall olive skinned ddark haired man, and another of warships launching cruise missiles wreathing the bows of ships in flame and smoke.

Who stands before us in every danger!
His mercy our nation restored!
And though we face further challenge
We trust in his honourable word!

The video intercuts the band playing, keyboard, hands strumming on strings, drums playing, the King in earnest conversations with VIP looking people, speaking with crowds, then holding up a paper before a cheering crowd.

Focusing on Mintaka’s face in black and white, singing gladly:

For as he’s our King, his own King is ever
Our Father in Heaven, the The LORd

Then the band sing all together, joyously, and this is intercut with video images of people dancing in the streets, holding hands, embracing, weeping for joy, rifles being stacked by the militia, soldiers on tanks and APcs being kissed.

Behold he came
Blazing like the sun!
Fiery on the sea!
Leading us in war!
Leading us in peace!
Our King we ever trust!
The father of the nation
Who made us whole!

Black and white images focuses on the faces, the instruments, the band occasionally, and mixed with these images are images of people lining up for food doles at refugee camps, aid workers explaining water filtration kits, children claping hands and singing songs as the band are with them in one of the camps. Now and then people are seen naked in these images, usually in prayer or working in fields. Brief video images are presented of the Queen—a live news feed from ANN News from Adiron showing her walking naked across a street scattered with debris and shell casings, soldiers pausing,s taring at her, and another of her in her coronation robes and crowned.

These are the days of Queen Mara
Shedding pride and protection for peace.
Whose bare feet bled on the road as she was
A pilgrim with tears falling sweet.
Who knelt in the fields and the markets
Walking naked in violent streets…
For these are the days in our nation
When the LORD’s righteous works be complete!

Behold she came
Leading us in prayer
Calls of loving worship
Ringing in the air!
Hear loving heart
Bare for all to see
From Eden to the Cross
Salvation comes!

The following images are shown: children singing the song’s next lyrics with the band in a refugee camp, people singing the lyrics in a church; a group of soldiers singing it during a worship service standing by a roadside near a convoy of army vehicles; the band on the stage in black and white.

Our country whole
And holy
One country whole
And holy
Our country whole
And holy
One country whole
And holy
Our country whiole
And holy
One country whole
And holy
Our country whole
And holy

The royal wedding is shown, the king in full naval dress, the Queen in a long dress made of real flowers and silver coins walk through a crowd with courtiers and clergy around them, people are throwing flowers and laughing, weeping and holding out their hands in blessing to them. The camera focuses on their faces—the King is smiling a quiet peaceful smile, the Queen is weeping and smiling at the same time, her lovely eyes swimming, her sweet looking mouth quivering, but her posture graceful.

As the video comes to a crashing end, it focuses on the band as individuals and then as a group.

Behold they come
Sitting on the throne
As God sits in Heaven
Before the holy throng!
Lift your voices
In the Year of Jubilee!
As they joined their hands
Salvation came!
(repeat)

[New Edom]

To: Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain, Royal Master of Offices
From: Dr. Amon Ashren, Deputy Minister of Education
Subject: The WorldVision Song Contest
Encryption: Open

---

Your Excellency,

It is my deepest hope that this message finds you in the best of heath and spirits. As per your request, I have written this so that it should be an open letter, which shall then be published in the Fineberg Times.

My advice has been asked as an academic, and indeed one of the foremost of the country in terms of the relevance of arts and entertainment for the public. I have spent the last twenty years of my life in the Ministry of education and I believe we have made great achievements for this country. An important part of education is the arts, which encourage people to develop a sense of the world around them.

Having reviewed all of the most recent WroldVision Song Contest as well as past ones which were presented as evidence to the Morality Act Committee, I have given this matter very careful thought.

It is very easy to get trapped in the morass of moral relativism, and begin weighing every instance of the expression of a particular muse. Then one must weigh the moral value of something versus its challenging nature or artistic merit. It is very important to recognize that the WorldVision Song Contest doesn't in any way attempt to do this. Rather, the contest is aimed entirely towards judging the artistic merits of the songs presented. While presenters and judges may express views on the morals of entrants' songs, these are offered strictly as their personal views, with the only real concern being towards determining if they think the presentation showed talent. It is, in effect, a grandiose talent show.

A good friend of mine, a prominent edomite poet, told me that he felt that in a way WorldVision expressed the idea of a global community very well. It shows, eh said, that people of many cultures and ideals can express those cultures and ideals without it leading to an immediate ugly confrontation--merely weighing whether or not someone likes what is shown or not. He said that this suggests a hope for reduced conflict in future. Another good friend, a popular musician, said that he worried that this censorship proposed by the Chamber of Deputies could lead to an artistic brain drain, and ultimately impact other areas of the arts and academia. In fact, he said that this has already been happening since the early 21st Century.

One of the prominent artists I spoke to was Dr. Stephen Carmel, the husband of sarah Carmel who heads the Free Congress arty and one of the leaders in proposing the ban. He told me that he had fully backed his wife's political move and that he had wrestled with his conscience first. In sum, he told me that it is the obligation of a Christian to focus on what is "good and lovely" as described in the Epistle to the Ephesians.

Therefore, after careful consideration, i have to say that i agree with him. It is not that reference to subjects is per se good or bad, it is rather the context in which they are presented that is at the heart of censorship within the Morality Act. For example, a homosexual character is not necessarily a bad thing to depict in a movie, but it is sinful to imply that there is nothing wrong with homosexual acts. It is not wrong to say that there are feminists or communists in the world, but it would be very wrong to allow the suggestion that these are laudable ideas that do not threaten our nation. The views expressed in such songs and films are not just 'different ideas', but are ideas that threaten our culture and nation directly. Actual organizations and countries with real military and economic force have tried to attack our country, attack our allies. We can respect their right to their own practices in their own countries to be sure, we cannot tolerate such ideas within our own borders.

Your Excellency, it is my recommendation to you that you advise Their Majesties to uphold the ban.

I have the honour to be,

Dr. Amon Ashren
Deputy Minister o Education

[Ghant]

“Bad for Business”
Gobernu Palace
Ghish, Ghant

“There is no such thing as a dirty word. Nor is there a word so powerful, that it's going to send the listener to the lake of fire upon hearing it.” – Frank Zappa

---

Nymun Izarbegiratzeak sat at his mahogany desk, paddling a ping pong ball against the wall. Far did it fling, and back to his desk it would return, as though it were a sea turtle. He had been in office for a year now, but wasn’t sure where his standing was just yet. He was a polarizing figure…widely popular with the people, somewhat popular with the nobility, but not very popular at all outside of Ghant. He was viewed by some foreigners as a bumbling clown, a yes man for the Empress’s family, the vaunted House Dakmaran. Yet ultimately he viewed himself as an incorruptible do-gooder, a man concerned with bettering his country and not getting bogged down in the usual vitriol of Ghantish politics and Ghish intrigues.

Mr. Prime Minister, a voice came in over the small intercom on his desk. Mr. Belzaguy is here to see you.

Oh shit. Nymun had forgot that Beltran Belzaguy had made an appointment to see the Prime Minister not long after news broke out that New Edom was banning WorldVision. Send him in. Nymun straightened himself up and adjusted his checkered tie…always a man to dress flamboyantly, Nymun at least cared about appearing presentable.

Within the span of a few minutes, Beltran Belzaguy stormed into the office. A large, portly man, he dressed in a rich black suit with suspenders wrapping over his shoulders to hold his slacks in place, under his bulging gut. Nymun often looked at himself critically, thinking himself ugly, but Beltran certainly had him beat in that department. Mr. Belzaguy had a fat, fleshy face, with beady hazel eyes, crooked teeth and thick, curly black hair along with a mean mug that rivaled a bulldog in a fighting pit.

“Greetings, Beltran, good to see you,” Nymun grinned toothily. “Please, have a seat.”

Beltran grunted, and sat down in the seat on the other side of Nymun’s desk…he was afraid the fat man would break it. Yet he managed to squeeze into the seat, and sighed as he did so. The man was old, Nymun’s age, but Beltran was in worse shape. It was miraculous that the man made it into the mid-seventies, given his history of high blood pressure and heart problems. “These Edomites are starting to piss me the fuck off, with all their censoring and prattling about their virtues. Fuck all that, I bet they are just as queer as anyone else, but put on this thin veneer of self-righteousness. Fucking pricks.”

“…Surely, Beltran, you can appreciate their emphasis on Christian morality…”

Beltran wasn’t having it…his fat sausage-like finger found it’s way near Nymun’s face. “The whole point of entertainment is to fucking entertain, Nymun, not serve as self-affirming propaganda. Compelling television challenges people’s conceptions, makes them think, makes them learn…makes them feel. I’ve been in this business a long time, Nymun…fifty years!” he slammed a closed fist on the desk. “When I became Chairman of the Ghantish Broadcasting Corporation fifteen years ago, I said that the key to stimulating the proliferation of Ghantish programming was to export it. Fact is, if New Edom is making a big deal about WorldVision, what do you think that says about us…that we are allies with them and that we do business? It’s going to make us appear guilty by association, and that could have a negative impact on our ratings, and on our ability to market out of country.”

Nymun raised his hands at that, and pursed his lips perhaps out of habit. “I don’t know what you want me to do, Beltran. If I could snap my fingers and left censorship, mayhaps I would. But it’s never as simple as that. There are so many considerations to be had…”

“Considerations,” Beltran interrupted. “Like the ones I made when I decided to fund your campaign. You were supposed to be one of our people, Nymun…all those years of partnership, and you’re going to do me like this? Come on now. This is a game of you scratch my back, I scratch yours. I have been scratching your back for years…when are you going to scratch mine?” Leaning forward, the television executive frowned. “Or maybe I need to find someone who will.”

The nerve of this old slug. Beltran had always been a fiery personality, but this…Nymun wasn’t expecting this at all. “…What do you want me to do, Beltran?”

“Convince the Edomites that this banning of WorldVision shit does them more harm than good. Make no mistake about it, WorldVision is a litmus test. If we want to see them make progress in the media in terms of ease of accessibility to foreign programming, we need WorldVision to air. I don’t care how you do it, just do it.” Beltran leaned back into his seat and rubbed his forehead. “Our shareholders will be very pleased with your administration if you accomplish this.”

Oh, I’m sure. Nymun didn’t want to be a lackey to special interests, but alas, Beltran had his nuts in a vise, so to speak. “Well if anything Beltran, I owe it to the people of Ghant to at least address the situation and placate the protestors outside the Edomite embassy.”

Grinning, Beltran knocked on the wood of the desk, rasping his swollen knuckles on the surface. “I knew I could count on you, Nymun.”

…Dick, The two talked for a while longer about the GBC, and then Beltran waddled out after laboriously struggling to get out of his chair. Then Nymun set to composing his public statement on the matter of WorldVision and the Edomite reaction to it…

Official Press Release from the Prime Minister of Ghant

---

---

It is often a very easy thing to do in the course of international relations to view any singular issue narrowly through the lens of one’s own cultural perspective. Recently, it has come to my attention that the government of the Allied States of New Edom, a nation we are proud to count as an ally, has banned the broadcasting of the WorldVision Song Contest on the grounds of it supporting and promoting homosexuality.

While many nations have been quick to condemn New Edom for this, and many Ghantish citizens protesting the decision, with some even here in Ghish protesting outside the Edomite embassy, I think it is important to analyze why this decision was made. The reason is simple. Edomite national law is based upon biblical law, and biblical law is quite clear on the issue at hand.

“You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.” - Leviticus 18:22
“If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.” - Leviticus 20:13

Within the scope of biblical teachings, one could argue that God does not create a person with homosexual desires. The Bible tells us that people become homosexuals because of sin, and ultimately because of their own choice. A person may be born with a greater susceptibility to homosexuality, just as some people are born with a tendency to violence and other sins. That does not excuse the person’s choosing to sin by giving in to sinful desires. If a person is born with a greater susceptibility to anger/rage, does that make it right for him to give in to those desires? Of course not! The same is true with homosexuality.

Such is the rationale of the Edomite ban on WorldVision…to them, it is a violation of their national law, as it is a conduit for the promotion of sin. Given this reality, I find it shortsighted to condemn New Edom for this decision. Rather, policy makers should spend more time analyzing the culture of New Edom, and their emphasis on biblical law to drive domestic policy.

While I may be just a Pagan from Northern Ghant who earned a PhD in Political Science from the University of Ghish and went on to become a comedian and political pundit, I have for a long time held passionate views about the notion of censorship. While in my capacity of Prime Minister of Ghant, I do not find it suitable to outright condemn the decision to ban WorldVision, I would however argue that censorship is not the best course of action for the Edomite government to pursue at this time.

Simply put, censorship always defeats it own purpose, for it creates in the end the kind of society that is incapable of exercising real discretion. Now to be fair, I think that New Edom has come a long way socially in the past few years, with much progress being made in terms of promoting civil rights and placing value on modernization. Given where New Edom was, and where it is now, I believe their progress is commendable, and it is simply unreasonable for foreign policymakers to expect New Edom to change overnight in order to conform with their worldviews without taking into account the Edomite predicament. It is a nation very self-aware of it’s own demons, with the notion of Christian sin being the ultimate enemy of their very way of life. Yet, rather than try to shelter its people from what they might view as sin, they should rather allow their people to see it, and know it, so they can better be equipped to allow their own Christian beliefs to be tempered.

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12

What this passage indicates is that the Christian God is capable of understanding the thoughts and intentions of people. How many people watch WorldVision in order to indulge in sin? Few, I would argue…most people watch WorldVision in order to enjoy the music of the world. Christian teachings emphasize a personal responsibility to overcome the temptation of sin. Yet, how can this be done if WorldVision is censored? Or if anything is censored, for that matter? It deprives the individual of being able to engage in personal responsibility for their own selves…and in the Edomite case, for their own souls.

WorldVision provides a window into the cultures of nations from around the world, and I believe that awareness, rather then ignorance, will always do people well. I concern myself with the ability of the Edomite people to be more aware of the state of things happening around them. If New Edom is so godly, so grounded in Christian tenants and steeped in its virtues, then I doubt something as frivolous as WorldVision could do any damage to the nation’s moral fabric. So while I do not condemn their government’s decision, I would strongly urge them to assess the notion of censorship from their own Christian perspective.

Sincerely,

Prime Minister of Ghant

[New Edom]

Count Sharra’s Estate
Fineberg, New Edom

The elegant home of Count Emil Sharra, the Minister of the Interior and Agriculture, lay on the outskirts of Fineberg, and was well known for its beautiful geometric gardens. The Count had a large greenhouse, an aquaponics, lab, areas where various flower strains grew, water gardens, hedgerows, beds of blue, green and pink tulips, honeysuckle, nicotina, and gladiolas. There were also adjacent clover fields on his estate for his honeybees, and vegetable and herb gardens. The general scents and air of the place was very fresh in contrast with the industrial hub of southern Fineberg.

While his pretty daughter Camilla was off at a tennis match, and his wife attending a charity council for the refugees in South Ceti, the Count himself made use of his staff at the house as well as some staff from the ministry to help organize a special meeting that took place at his house.

Dr. Maria Shillito was among these. As the Natioanal Director for Arts and Entertainment, it was her duty to supervise a number of offices pertaining to those subjects. One of these was the National Office of Censors. A rather plain faced woman with brown hair, a snub nose, a serious downturning mouth, large grave eyes and a sturdy ordinary figure, she did not exactly turn any heads but she immediately came across as dedicated and serious.

The purpose of the meeting was to establish consensus on advice which would formally be presented to the Royal Master of Offices to present to the King and Queen, the recommendation on whether or not the King and Queen ought to sing the proposed bill banning the WorldVision Song Contest and similar international events from being shown in New Edom. This would also comprehensively ban Edomite citizens from in any way participating in or promoting the contest or any similar venue. The ‘ban’ wasa a simple way of describing what was acutlaly a forty page document describing the various ways that the issue was proposed to be dealt with, point by point by sub point.

Also present at this meeting were Dr. Amon Ashren, the Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Judith Been, the Director of Cultural Preservation, Mr. Peter Misabel the Deputy Minister of Justice, Dr. Stephen Carmel the Director and Senior Conductor of the National Symphony Orchestra, Bishop Andreas Latakis the Associate Chief Justice, Mr. Christopher Bohun the Poet Laureate of New Edom, Mr. Canopus Fade of the New Edomite WorldVision Committee, Dr. Nestor Khalkimedes of the National Science Foundation, Countess Melisande Merodach the Palace’s Press Secretary, Most Holy Elder Brother Malachi the Palace Chaplain-General, Dr. Marius Campion the Chairman of the National Wisdom Party, Dr. Christina Delmar Chairwoman of the Christian Social Democratic Party, Sarah Carmel the Chairwoman of the Free Congress, Claudius Glaber the Chairman of the Intellectual Party, Count Emil Sharra the Minister of the Interior. The Count would be chairing the meeting.

As with nearly every Edomite social or political occasion that was in polite society, it began with a light buffet and much conversation, and gradually, on a cloud of good wine and aromatic smoke, the group drifted into a meeting room with comfortable chairs, introductions were formally made, prayers were said by the bishop for everyone, and the meeting began.

“I would like to read into the record several statements that have been made formally,w which are also presented as copies in everyone’s folders.” Count Sharra proceeded to read public statements from the various national foreign ministries which had commented, the statements of executives of non-government organizations, including those of Lucius Nimrod of the Free Hearts and MMinds Organization in New edom, and the latest, from the Ghantish Prime Minister.

“I would like to say, said Count Sharra, “That I was impressed by this letter. The Prime Minister is a pagan, is a foreigner, and yet shows a remarkable understanding of our country’s problems and challenges as well as our overall national goals and ideals. Overall I feel it was very becoming an ally, and I have personally taken it in the brotherly manner in which it was offered.”

“I agree, Your Excellency, and was particularly impressed by his understanding of the reasons for which we do not accept homosexual behaviour under our laws,” said Bishop Latakis with a smile. He was an old but very hearty man, nearly bald but with bright eyes and strong hands. “I think he summed things up very well in that regard.”

“The President of the Council of Ministers has formally thanked him for his letter,” said Count Sharra, “And expressed similar sentiments, and made it clear that this meeting is taking place and that his letter will be taken into account.”

“I also think that the Prime Minister—and I excuse this for he is an unbeliever, albeit a very learned one-- does not take the whole of scripture into account, I fear…” began Most Holy Elder Brother Malachi. “In the earlier verse, after all, it read Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. Moreover he forgets that we are not to encourage those to eat meat sacrificed before idols, as it were, even if we are, because of our freedom in Christ, immune to their temptation…”

“Indeed, Most Holy,” said Count Sharra very politely, “But we will come to your views when my summation is done, if you please.”

The gaunt Chaplain-General, a rough man wearing only a holy mantle, his feet hard as old leather sandals, inclined his head, and leaned back in his chair. He sipped plain water and ate ony a little brad and honey.

“More than just a comedian,” murmured Dr. Ashren to Dr. Shillito.

“Ah, but that is sometimes the point of comedy,” she said. “Sometimes it is to be a jester who says the uncomfortable truths. That is why the Ghantish people trust him.”

Dr. Ashren leaned back and smiled at her, lowering his horn rimmed glasses. “You admire him!”

Dr. Shillot smiled a rare smile and suddenly looked her inward self—the thoughtful kindly person she was but had to discipline to be a good civil servant. “I do. He’s a very interesting man. He is a clown—but not ONLY that.”

“Interesting…” but Ashren broke off as Coutn Sharra was going on. Dr. Shillito pointed to something on her tablet, which he quickly read (he was a speed reader)

“In the pursuit of enlightenment, we often forget that life is meant to be fun, to be enjoyed. So many political leaders have a stick shoved so far up their assess, that they can taste it in their mouths. My goal is to point out the stick.”- Dr. Nymun Izarbegiratzeak, 1975

“Are you actually a fan, Dr. Shillito?” asked Dr. AShren in a soft whisper, his eyes twinkling merrily.

“I am an admirer, Dr. Ashren,” she said with a quick smile back. “Perhaps the boy from Northern Ghant, who made the dean’s list and so many other things—when you think of Northern Gahnt, it is not so different from rural East Haran, just hot and dry instead of cold and snowy.”

Dr. Ashren laid a finger alongside his neat little easily smilng mouth, and winked at her, then gestured at Count Sharra indicating that they should pay attention.

“The Prime Minister of Ghant has made the same point nearly every other foreign organization or person speaking to this issue , with the exception perhaps of our allies from Nihon: that we ought to not censor.” Count Sharra ruffled his papers and adjusted his round glasses and kept speaking, now and then glancing up. “The problem with this perspective is that every nation, with extremely rare exceptions, censors something. For example most nations in the world don’t allow pre-teenage persons to watch pornography. Child pornography is illegal in nearly every law abiding nation in the world, and self censorship is practiced in most so called liberal or progressive nations in terms of things like slavery, irresponsible drug use, domestic violence so called, and racial prejudice. The WorldVision Song Contest seems actually to be exceptional in that nearly anything goes.”

Count Sharra sipped from his glass of water, cleared his throat, adjusted his reading glasses and continued. “Therefore, it is our charge, from Their Majesties, that we examine the case of the WorldVision Song Contest from the perspectives our responsibilities offer and come to a general consensus if that is possible on whether or not we recommend that Their Majesties sign the ban. If we cannot come to consensus within three days’ time we are to report that also. In short, we have three das to work on this. I hope you will all enjoy the hospitality of my house during that time, and for those who are staying as my guests, you are welcome to enjoy my gardens and tour the estate with my staff assisting you. Don’t get lost in my gardens!” there was a flurry of polite chuckling, but the Count was not exactly known for his wit.

Dr. Shillito discreetly checked her phone. Ike most of them she had other responsibiltieis but would try to check with her staff during the breaks and would have part of the day to head down to her office if she had the time. While Dr. Been began to talk about the perspective of the Office of Cultural Preservation and the peculiar challenges of it, she checked on her tablet a PDF copy of the Ghantish Prime Minister’s last book, When in Rome (2014)

‘One cannot ignore the fact that New Edom’s culture is a pluralistic one yet one bound by a common thread of faith,” Dr. Been was saying. “And that this holds within it many people who have only recently begun to be given a modern education. Even learning of a different approach to Holy Communion can cause great distress. Our people in many cases live in small villages or are recently settled in large cities…”