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by The Ambis » Sat Dec 09, 2023 8:21 pm
Invea wrote: non-compliant W.A. members are fatigued by a practically non-dismissable notification, ... to the Ambis's delightSedgistan wrote: ...There's an obvious gameplay solution to that problem - burn Algerheaven to the ground. | "When Alger is the voice of reason, you know you have a problem"
by Reventus Koth » Sat Dec 09, 2023 8:58 pm
Loreintor wrote:Algerheaven has been refounded as a trophy by raider group Lone Wolves United after an uneventful occupation. Founder and former TEPer Supreme Algerstonia refused defender help in liberating his region.
Xanthal wrote:Only raiders can win in this war- a defender can keep them from winning one region, one update at a time, but there will always be the next region, the next update, and the next, forever.
by Eastern Pacific News Service » Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:21 pm
Contents:
- Update from the Delegate
- The Foreign Newsstand
- A New Awards System
- Magisterium Update
- Praesidium Update
- Worlds To Build
Update from the Delegate
By: Merlovich
Happy New Year TEP! It brings me great pleasure to welcome you and our region to the new year, and I’m excited to share what the final month of 2023 brought to our region.
The end of each year always brings a warmth of festivity to many communities, and TEP is no exception. This holiday season brought out the best in our region, from spreading the joy in our regional Discord to a swathe of game nights and events. Something that I loved to see was our region's anonymous Santa, giving out postmaster-general to dozens of individuals across the RMB. It’s gestures like these that make me so immensely happy and grateful to be a part of this wonderful community.
December saw our fan-favourite Hunger Games continue as usual. This month's edition was hosted by our lovely EPSA OO and former Delegate Shadow. In what was one of the most even performances we’ve seen, it was District 6 that strolled into a win by default, with Anya surviving Jo, who blew themselves up with a landmine. There were no standouts in the kill counts, with Anya tied with Ethan and Joebama for 3 kills a piece, despite one of the most teaming-heavy games in recent memory. I have often said it is really the person who places 25th who is truly the winner, which is a weird coincidence as that’s where I placed, who knew?!
This month saw some cultural events in the lead-up to Christmas, with a Gartic Phone game night on the 20th, a haiku and flag contest, and a joint game night with TSP and TRR. TEP also took part in the annual Winter Blizzard Bash over the new year period alongside XKI, TGW, TRR and TSP.
We also had some action on the FA stage this month, with TEP and Astoria formally opening on-site embassies, the first new embassy in some time! We look very much forward to working alongside them, and we’ll be welcoming them to our region this month for the January Hunger Games! This month also saw the closure of our Consulate with South Pacific.
I’d like to end with a special note to the two ministers who have stepped down this month, Halley (Minister of News) and Gem (Minister of World Assembly Affairs). The region thanks you very much for your service, as do I.
I hope this update finds you well, and once again I’d like to wish you a Happy New Year. Special shout-out to former MoN Vussul for providing a very useful formatting tool for EPNS dispatch coding!
The Foreign Newsstand
By: Aivintis | Edited by Altys
Hello and welcome to the Foreign Newsstand. We in The East Pacific’s Foreign Affairs server can see the news updates from our friends and allies abroad, but you, dear reader, may not have that privilege. We also discuss major interregional headlines from the Gameplay forum and foreign government statements. For the purposes of sharing interregional news, we’ve developed this quick Newsstand to summarize the goings-on of our diplomatic partners and other regions. Here’s the events of December:
- Operation Eden, an anti-fascist military occupation of the region Sacrumterra, the fourth largest fascist region before the operation, has concluded with a successful refounding of the region as a trophy. Eastern Pacific Sovereign Army leader Eastern Alksearia headed the invasion alongside Rosartemis, the Prime Minister of Astoria.
- Atlanticana has ratified a new Constitution, transitioning into the Third Republic, with Mikaela and Kexin elected as dual heads of state.
- A referendum in The Union of Democratic States proposed by President Ostrovskiy completely reformed and restructured the UDS democratic government, transitioning the Executive branch into a Directorate of three individuals. Two are appointed for life, the third is elected to a six month term, and amongst the three, a Director Primus is chosen to guide the triumvirate. Phoenix Coalition and The Glorious Hypetrain, two prominent UDS high officials, now serve as the first two appointed Directors alongside Ostrovskiy as the elected one.
- Akillian Talleyrand was elected as the Prime Minister of the region United Kingdom, with which TEP maintains consulate relations.
- The Pact of the Sword and Spear was signed between Kantrias and Astoria, a non-aggression pact between the two regions. Astoria currently maintains a Consulate with TEP.
- Atlanticana has opened embassies with the Alstroemerian Commonwealths, a largely apolitical regional union between The Glorious Nations of Iwaku, Eientei Gensokyo, Yggdrasil, and Japan, among smaller regions.
- The North Pacific’s delegate transition has finally ended, with Kaschovia securing the delegacy with the help of the region’s allies.
- The Brotherhood of Malice, following the successful raid of the historic defender region Alcatraz, maintained it under the guise of creating a frontier, refounding the region as a Stronghold to trophy it after ten days.
- The project by Lazarus to establish a protectorate region following the Frontier/Stronghold update has been given a theme - space cowboys and dragons. Lazarus is receiving suggestions from its people for the name of the new region, and will hold a vote on which name to choose before the end of January.
- The Noble Thatcherites, Founder and long-standing Governor of The Union of Democratic States, has resigned as the Governor and Chief Administrator, passing the torch to Phoenix Coalition, a historic former President and current Directorate member.
- Community, the region in which Frontierism, the ideology of raiding inactive frontiers to funnel their spawns into active ones, is temporarily transitioning into a stronghold amidst a period of government inactivity. Government and regional operations will continue as normal.
- Astoria, a region founded this year, hosted “The Twelve Days of Christmastoria,” a holiday festival with contests, games, and other events. Foreign regions were invited to this festival.
- The Winter Blizzard Bash, an event hosted by The East Pacific, The Order of the Grey Wardens, 10000 Islands, the Rejected Realms, and the South Pacific, was held at the end of the month, a successor to the Harry Potter Festival of Friends that occurred for the past five years.
- The NationStates Gameplay (NSGP) awards for 2023 have begun, a longstanding NSGP tradition, in which prominent nations and regions are nominated and voted for awards in various superlative categories.
A New Awards System
By: Vussul
A New Awards System
The East Pacific's old awards system was defunct. The highest award, the OGO, had 40 awardees, which is far too many and the last OGO was awarded in 2021, two years ago. There were many other awards as well that were unused and probably unknown to the majority of TEP. The system was not doing what it was supposed to: provide an incentive for people to do stuff in the region.
The cause of the system's death was quite clear. Delegate Libertanny set a precedent of having the Delegates award their own personal badges. Almost every Delegate after kept this precedent going. This undercut the old system which already had more awards than could be feasibly handled as it had no record keeping system of the awards.
So it was clear that we needed a new system. The first proposal, mine, and the proposal I still believe to be the most effective way to go about an overhaul was to do away with the old awards and have a single order with three tiers for progressively more substantial contributions. This order would have a dispatch that centralised and recorded awardees. This dispatch would be pinned to the main region page to provide motivation to others and to further the prestige of the awards. Awardees would have the reason why they were awarded, when, and who awarded them recorded as well. This idea was shot down by the Magisterium.
With the idea shot down, a different system was developed instead. The new system retains the OGO and keeps the old system's ideas of multiple awards. The new awards range from artwork contributions to Z-Day and N-Day work. The new system also adds tiers to these awards and keeps the idea of a pinned dispatch to record who was awarded. The new system differs in emphasis from my idea. My idea emphasised prestige of awards but the new system is designed to emphasise recognition of particular actions and activities of persons. The new system, developed by myself, Delegate Merlovich, Grand Vizier Aivintis, Arbiter Zukchiva, and Minister Romanoddle has since passed the Magisterium.
Although I disagree with the new system, I hope it works. My advice on using the new system is to be liberal with the new awards. They should be handed out freely by the Delegate to keep them in circulation. Each Delegate should never issue personal awards in the manner of the many Delegates since Libertanny so the new system is not undercut again. And the new awards system should keep all the pomp and circumstance expected of an awards system.
Magisterium Update
By: Merlovich
A-2023-49 Amendment to the Citizenship Act - Cordial Notifications
CA-2023-50 Proposal for Amendment to Article C of the Concordat - Adapting to New Rulings
A-2023-51 Amendment to the Endorsements Caps Act - Delegate Transitions
A-2023-52 Amendment to the Regional Officers Act - Vizier Delegate Contingency
A-2023-53 Amendment to the Citizenship Act - Border Protection
C-2023-54 Confirmation of Dremaur to the Praesidium
OB-2023-55 Formatting Amendments Omnibus
L-2023-56 The Awards Act
R-2023-57 Repeal of the Pacificum Orientale Awards Act
We enter the new year with 16 active Magisters, down from 19 in November. There are currently 6 inactive Magisters, of which 5 are suspended at present.
The Magisterium voted this week to elect the Provost of the 60th Magisterium. Two candidates stood for election, Dremaur and Vussul. The two candidates remained tied at the conclusion of voting, with Vussul conceding after the two candidates agreed on terms. Dremaur will now serve as the Provost of the 60th Magisterium. Congrats, Dremaur!
Praesidium Update
By: Merlovich and Altys
December was another positive month for the Praesidium, with the in-game delegacy now comfortably secured, we were able to turn our attention to welcoming a new Vizier. Vice-Delegate and long time TEPer Dremaur was voted into Viziership on the 9th of December, and has quickly jumped to over 300 endorsements. This month we saw the continuation of a decline in overall WA membership as a region, but despite this several Viziers amassed solid endorsement numbers. Below is this the endorsement tracker for December.
Contents:
- Join the Discussion
- Tower of Conlangs
- Uniguals: Brining Worldbuilding Alive
- Against The Tide
Join the Discussion
Anyone and everyone is welcome to join us on The East Pacific's Discord #worlds-to-build channel. Worlds to Build region is now an option as an exclusive spot for The East Pacific residents who can post all things worldbuilding, conlangs, etc. for anyone not on Discord!
Notes from WTB Staff:
- Worldbuilding Prompts will be moving to a sidebar within the next few editions so that we can include more unique worldbuilding articles!
con·lang
/ˈkänˌlaNG/
a language that has been artificially created; a constructed language.
Definition from Oxford Languages and Google
Tower of Conlangs
Featured Language: Jidduanese by Gonggong/Star Flowers
The name Jiduan comes from the name of the original feline ethnic group that settled in the city-states of the gulf. The Jiduanis, as they were known, were a collection of traveling merchants and statesmen whose presence in the region gave it its moniker. Although Jiduan does not encompass the entirety of the Jiduani Gulf, the country is named after the gulf regardless. Read more about Jiduan on Urth Tepwiki.
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Previously featured languages: Ayaupian, Kuduk, Kilumi
Uniguals: Brining Worldbuilding Alive
By: Gonggong/Star Flowers
On a not-so-far star system, there lives a lone planet named Setera 45xb. For explorers, this place is known for its scenic nature and odd wildlife. But few creatures are as iconic to Setera 45xb as the species living on the southeastern coast of the continent: the Uniguals! As soon as I heard of them, I wanted to speak to one, but, despite my best translation efforts, it doesn’t seem they have the ability to make any noise other than clicks and rattles. These strange creatures, who are usually around the size of a household cat, do little more than sit around and make concussive clicks while rattling their heads at each other.
Their faces seem to be a sort of mask that they customize with paints and clay. Every Unigual has a unique mask, and from what can be seen, they don’t have a real face under it. The masks are treated as their genuine faces, and breaking one is considered taboo. Once a child grows old enough, the ability to create their own mask is treated as a rite of passage. As Uniguals grow older, they may choose to alter their masks as they see fit, or even create new ones so they can have some variety. Some Uniguals have an impressive collection of masks that they choose from, not unlike how we choose an outfit to wear every morning.
In addition to masks, Uniguals like to express themselves with accessories such as belts and necklaces, and they like to cut and shape their hair too! They purchase jewelry from the Azers to their west, only choosing to wear the highest quality jewels that they can get their hands on. Their bodies vary greatly in color. Some come in bright red, others in a jet black, but earthlier tones, such as darker browns and muddier yellows, are most common! Although every Unigual has their own unique mask, Uniguals of the same clan (especially if they’re of high status) have recurring motifs in their masks and accessories.
Breaking the mask of another is considered one of the most horrid crimes to the Uniguals, but not all Uniguals have chosen to abide by that rule. An infamous warlord named Zudi of the Thousand Faces was rumored to have broken the masks of many, hence his title. Eventually, however, it is said that from the weight of the crown on his head, his own mask cracked and fell apart. Zudi lost his power over the Coast of Igual, and the Uniguals went back into their old Clan System of governance.
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Out of Character Anecdote!:
if you’re curious, this is what the Sculpted Uniguals look like without their masks! (Yes, the mask is actually removable on the real sculpture!)
For the sculpture, it’s held up with a strip of Velcro, but the actual Uniguals don’t have anything! It’s just a blank slate behind the mask.
When I first made the Uniguals, I was just learning how to create sculptures of the creatures on Setera 45xb, so I made many choices that I now realize to be mistakes! I created the Uniguals out of porcelain, with a cut styrofoam interior. It was very difficult to create the Uniguals this way, as the thin limbs and neck of the Unigual make for easy breaking points. The hair was a pompom bought from a fabric store that I cut to fit around the cranium of the sculpture. Lastly, the mask was made as a separate thing that was added on at the final moment. If I were to go back in time and redo the sculpture, I would likely use a wired armature bulked out with aluminum foil, and create the body using a mixture of super sculpey for the main body and head and the more flexible cosclay for the thin limbs!
Against The Tide
By: Malvekia
Natural disasters are an interesting type of nation roleplaying that few are eager to delve into. It requires extensive research into the underlying elements that combine to cause these natural disasters, intricate planning of the actions of one’s own nations and the complex consequences of such events, and if involving other nations, demands coordination among roleplayers to paint a coherent timeline of events as the natural disaster plays out. However, when executed properly, natural disaster roleplays can be the foundation for other interesting political or economic changes a country experiences and be quite enjoyable for all those involved in it.
The same cannot be said for the citizens of Malvekia, who for the first time in the nation’s history experienced the fury of the hurricane. Malvekia, a peaceful coastal country located right above the equator of Valsora, was not what comes to mind when one thinks of natural disasters. Apart from the annual monsoon season that brought flash floods or storm surges and the occasional forest fire, natural disasters were never a fear that hung over the Malvekian people. But that all changed one cloudy afternoon on the 10th of November, when meteorological stations along the coast reported anomalies in the weather data from the usual monsoon weather. Many hoped that the abnormal data would be an outlier or caused by faulty equipment but their worst fears were realized when satellite imagery painted a clear picture for them. A storm had been forming over the North Demetric Sea, and it seemed to be heading here.
Government action was immediate, as the country had never faced down a hurricane throughout its entire history. Entire communities were evacuated, rivers and embankments reinforced with temporary flood defenses, and search and rescue teams were placed on standby for when the storm hit. The military was activated, alongside Civil Defence volunteers, to provide assistance to federal, state, and local authorities for the monumental effort to be undertaken by them. They only had days before the hurricane, dubbed Hurricane Scylla after the legendary sea monster of Greek mythology, made landfall on Malvekia’s shores.
Hurricane Scylla finally made landfall in the early hours of the 14th of November, bringing with it gale-force winds and storm surges 3-metres high. For almost 12 hours Scylla wrought destruction wherever she went, tearing through neighbourhoods and cities alike before finally leaving northbound towards the island nation of Leiland. Though preemptive action managed to reduce potential casualties, the same could not be said for the economic damage brought by Scylla. Storm drain systems and flood defenses unequipped to handle the wrath of a hurricane left cities inundated in floodwater, entire communities levelled, and coastlines littered with debris and refuse. Casualties are in the low hundreds, although many still remain missing as rescue workers and survivors picked through the rubble left behind by the storm.
The situation was even worse for Leiland, a low-lying group of islands to the northeast of Malvekia well-known for its status as a global financial center and tax haven while being less well-known for its near-dictatorial authoritarian rule. Overnight Leiland’s flood defenses failed and dykes gave way to the relentless pounding of the hurricane, sweeping away entire towns and coastal centers unlucky enough to be standing in the path of the hurricane. Fatalities are estimated in the tens of thousands, although many fear that the number might be higher as thousands remain unaccounted for, trapped and buried beneath the rubble and mud. What was left soon devolved into a humanitarian crisis, as essential infrastructure failed, supplies dwindled, and a Leilish government that paralysed by the disappearance of its President and the death of the Vice President alongside many Members of Parliament in a freak accident during a session hearing. Anarchy reigned supreme for a few short days before an international coalition of nations from across Valsora joined forces in delivering humanitarian aid and manpower to the chaos-stricken nation. The situation remains stable, so far.
As the hurricane returned to where it came from, survivors were left picking the pieces of what remained in the aftermath of the hurricane. Malvekia, though its population were left largely unscathed, not only has to begin the painful process of reconstruction but also now contend with the developing humanitarian crisis unfolding across the coast as refugees flee violence and instability from a crumbling island nation. Not only that, the smell of something fishy fills the air as faulty storm drainage infrastructure and poorly built embankments have people up in arms at something sinister happening behind closed doors. For now, Leiland is barely holding itself together via a stream of humanitarian supplies and peacekeeping manpower from generous nations. But will it be enough to keep the peace and rebuild what was lost? Only time will tell how this situation plays out, and whether the combined efforts of Valsora will culminate in a peaceful resolution to this tumultuous situation.
by Valtarre » Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:36 pm
by Rosartemis » Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:41 pm
by Aivintis » Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:49 pm
Valtarre wrote:Much credit to Aivintis for having their finger on the pulse of world affairs and providing an easily consumable overview of the recent news. Good to keep up with new treaties that I might have missed otherwise.
by Merlovich » Wed Jan 10, 2024 12:57 am
Rosartemis wrote:Yet another amazing read, props to the writers!
Astoria is happy to have TEP as an embassy and diplomatic partner, to many more fashbashes to come!
by Eastern Pacific News Service » Sun Feb 18, 2024 10:19 pm
Contents:
- Update from the Delegate
- February 2024 Delegate Elections
- The Foreign Newsstand
- Magisterium Update
- Interview with the Delegate
- Praesidium Update
- Why stay in the East Pacific, according to a Citizen
- Socializing and Etiquette
Update from the Delegate
By: Merlovich
Welcome to February folks! I apologise profusely for how delayed this edition of EPNS is, the blame for that lies entirely on my shoulders, we had a rough month getting articles in, and I’ve had a busy month touching grass in the real world. Nonetheless, we have a great selection of articles for your viewing pleasure this month.
We’re now freshly into a new year and we’ve hit the ground running in The East Pacific. We’ll start in the Foreign Affairs department. In the new year thus far The East Pacific has gone on a friend-making spree, opening diplomatic relations with Sparkalia, Kantrias, The Red Fleet and The Region That Has No Big Banks. Not only that, but we’ve also upgraded our relations with Atlanticana from a Consulate to a full-time Embassy. I am incredibly excited to see these relationships grow and continue to flourish, and I’m looking forward to furthering relations across the board in the coming months with our new Foreign Affairs structure. You may be questioning what that structure is, so let me explain.
Over the last month, the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Foreign Affairs Council have gotten to work on reviving the old ‘ambassador system’, which saw members of the FA Council and Ministry assigned as diplomats to every region which TEP holds formal relations with. This system was abandoned some time ago, however, we see it fit to revive this system to ensure we have a constant close connection with our diplomatic partners, and to energize the fairly lacklustre staffing situation in the Foreign Affairs Ministry. Put simply, it gives our staffers something to do, and ensures our friends have a constant point of contact with TEP. While the fine details of the system are still being ironed out, at this stage the plan is to have ambassadors check in bi-monthly (twice every delegate term) with our diplomatic partners to ensure everything is running smoothly and to ensure our friends understand TEP is present and cares about our relationships. As I have repeatedly said, if we as a region expect to be treated with respect and shown friendship, we must ensure we’re the best friends and partners we can be.
Another area we’ve quickly set up work on is our automated recruitment system, which is now up and running! We’ve already hit the 1000 telegram mark and hopefully (fingers crossed) we’ll see some boosted recruitment numbers over the next few months. This was an area TEP was severely lacking in, as most major regions already manage automated recruitment, however, we’ll now be on the same page as most major regions and feeders. We’re also looking into options with manual recruitment at the same time, so stay tuned!
As promised in my election, I have several areas I’m looking to put special focus on this term. The three things I was most keen on handling were Automated Recruitment, the EPSA rebrand and completing the Foreign Affairs restructure. Given I’ve already ticked off automated recruitment, I’d say we’re off to a good start. In the next few weeks, I’ll begin conversations with the EPSA and members of the Cabinet regarding the EPSA. I plan on putting together a questionnaire/poll for the wider TEP community to gauge thoughts on the EPSA, what they believe is missing, what’s good, what isn’t and what they’d like to see. We want to ensure this rebrand is successful and ensure our military reflects the community it serves. In the Foreign Affairs area, we’ll look to continue the work we’ve started and ensure we have a stable and complete framework before beginning to assign diplomats. Outside of these areas, I’d also like to continue working with UTEP Chancellor Aivintis on porting all UTEP works over to the new dispatch framework.
The next four months will see a largely-continuing Cabinet. With my re-election, I’ve opted to retain the current Cabinet set-up, with only one new appointee, Rosartemis as Minister of News. Rosa will take over the role in the next edition (and likely do a better job than me) I will list below for your reading convenience the February 2024 Cabinet of The East Pacific.
Delegate: Merlovich
Vice Delegate: Dremaur
Minister of Foreign Affairs: Altys
Minister of World Assembly Affairs: Albrook
Minister of Culture: Cappedore
Minister of Outreach: Romanoddle Republic
Minister of News: Rosari
EPSA Overseeing Officer: Eastern Alksearia
UTEP Chancellor: Aivintis
Cabinet Advisors: East Malaysia, Vussul, New Leganes
I look very much forward to working with the Cabinet, and all of the Executive to make this second term even better than the first. Thank you very much for reading not only my update, but this edition of EPNS. Thank you for your hospitality during my time as interim minister, even if your update is 2 weeks late >:)
February 2024 Delegate Elections
By: Eastern Alksearia | Edited by: Merlovich
The clock turns over from January 31st to February 1st. Everyone in TEP knows what that means: It’s election time!!! This election saw a total of 8 legal candidates. Of them, only 2 did not post a campaign. So let’s get to meet the candidates:
Vulbania - Magister and member of EPPS. no campaign posted. Even though no campaign was posted, the author applauds the candidate standing for election.
Eastern Alksearia - previous Deledark running for reelection after being out of the seat for 2 terms. Shadow’s campaign mainly focused on the Foreign Affairs and EPSA side of operations. While their Regional Affairs section was lacking, they are the first serious campaign on this list. Campaign
Myehn - no campaign was posted. Current RMB moderator and member of the Valsora community. As with the first candidate reviewed, the author again applauds running in the election.
Merlovich - current delegate running for re-election. Merlo’s campaign ran on an overhaul of FA and a fresh retheme for EPSA. Somehow, the Merlogate is still not a scandal. For Regional Affairs, Merlovich has been moving towards getting rid of Chief Ministers and making everyone regular Ministers. A renewed focus on Outreach was stressed, as well as making recruitment a priority. Campaign
Vussul - current Magister and member of the EPSA. Running for Delegate to express ideas which is common for TEP elections seasons. The focus of their campaign was to reinvigorate the Regional Affairs of the region. More domestic activity. They believe with increased activity in Regional Affairs, the more people who will come into government. Vussul also campaigned on changing TEP’s Foreign Policy to align closely with a survey conducted by TEP’s own Libertanny.Campaign
Soramra - current magister. The campaign was a campaign of ideas and of Ramblings. Observations made on how TEP operates and areas where improvement would be necessary. A focus on TEP’s Foreign Policy was highlighted as the Ramblings of a Random Jo as having no focus on making a clear foreign policy. Other areas included getting our name in the WA and to have a specific goal for the WA, an overhaul of EPSA and how EPSA conducts operations. Campaign
Dremaur - current Vice Delegate and Provost of the Magisterium. Drem’s main objective was to have TEP expand outside of NS and to broaden our horizons into other games. A focus was also on promoting the Culture of TEP and fostering relationships with like minded regions Campaign
Marrabuk - Current EPPS Commissioner and former Delegate. Marrabuk was running for Delegate to stay in shape. Health is important folks. Don’t undermine your health from an early age. Camopaing
And now that we have introduced our candidates, The author gives a big shoutout to everyone who voted. You keep TEP’s government going by telling us who you want to see in the Delegate’s chair. Which is why I am pleased to announce that Pax was elected as eternal dictator! Wait, hold on. I am receiving a message that for legal reasons, this is a joke and that they actual election results were as follows:
1. Merlovich: 21
2. Eastern Alksearia: 6
3. Dremaur: 5
4. Myehn: 2
5. Marrabuk: 1
6. Vussul: 1
7. Vulbania: 0
8. Soramra: 0
With 36 legal ballots, Merlovich has been re-elected to a second term as Delegate!
The Foreign Newsstand
By: Aivintis
Hello and welcome to the Foreign Newsstand. We in The East Pacific’s FA Watch are tasked with discussing and debating news of global significance within NationStates Gameplay (NSGP). With an eye on the forums and the news reports of our allies, we see discussion on a wide range of interregional political topics. For the purposes of sharing interregional news, I’ve developed this quick Newsstand to summarize the goings-on of our diplomatic partners and other regions. Here are the major events of January 2024:
- The 2023 Gameplay Awards began on the NS forums. Over the course of these awards, prominent regional members from The North Pacific and the West Pacific, including diplomatic officials and former Delegates, withdrew their ballots in a public boycott of the awards. Other awards, such as the Warzone Awards, the Golden Griefer Awards, and the 2024 Algerstonia Awards, were hosted shortly after the GP Awards opening.
- Keeping with the theme of awards ceremonies, but moving away from the interregional gameplay community, Astoria has held its first annual regional awards.
- Major regions, such as Europeia and the South Pacific, have faced electoral difficulties in recent elections, with low numbers of candidates and low voter turnout leading to the “Re-Open Nominations” option receiving majorities.
- An anti-fascist griefing raid on Brebina has concluded with great success, led by Astoria with East Pacifican participation.
- Conch Kingdom has elected Daraln as Prime Minister, Boratstans as Minister of Domestic Affairs, and Nova Cameroon as Minister of Foreign Affairs. Conch Kingdom is a region within the Augustin Alliance, an interregional community federation.
- North Pacifican Delegate Kaschovia has been re-elected to a second term. In their inaugural address, Kaschovia released their cabinet, which included shuffling of manpower to meet various goals.
- Astoria has established a piler corps within its military known as the Guardsmen, appointing The Ambis as Archon of the Guardsmen.
- The Wellspring, one of the most prominent independent frontiers in NationStates, was raided by The Brotherhood of Malice in a delbump operation, mirroring the tactics used in the attack on The North Pacific. This comes as a result of their war with TNP, who is allied with The Wellspring.
- Ostrovskiy was elected as a Director of the Union of Democratic States. According to the recent UDS constitutional amendment written by Guess and Check (the previous edition of the Foreign Newsstand wrongfully reported Ostrovskiy as the author), there are three Directors which form the leadership of the Union. One is elected and two are appointed. This is the first election held since those changes.
- Valdosta was raided by the West Pacific and Lone Wolves United, seeing the highest turnout from The West Pacifican Armed Forces in a long time, with upwards of 30 participants. Defenders did not attempt to liberate the region and it is in the process of transitioning to a Stronghold.
- Lenlyvit, also known as Kuriko, was elected within 10000 Islands as Senator for New Republica South. Pantso was re-elected as Senator for Blue Canaria North. Senators serve on the Council of the Nine, XKI’s legislature. Blue Canaria North Senators are tasked with writing monthly embassy updates, whereas New Republica South Senators are tasked with maintaining activity in the Great Debate Hall.
- After a series of OOC moderation incidents within Europeia, but reportedly related to a perceived lack of care, regard, and communication, The Pacific’s government, The New Pacific Order, has withdrawn from The Modern Gameplay Compact and repealed their treaty with Europeia, the Treaty of Sericum. As existing embassies have not been canceled, it seems relations will continue on a lower level.
- The West Pacific has also withdrawn from the Modern Gameplay Compact, leaving Balder, Europeia, and The North Pacific as the only founding members to remain in the alliance. Despite this move, the West Pacific has announced that it intends to maintain the sanctions established by the MGC upon its formation.
- Warzone Trinidad was raided by fascist forces from Hellish Dominion of Abysmal Torment, a region which has since been raided and burned by an antifascist coalition led by the West Pacific. This attack follows Warzone Trinidad’s application to join Antifa, the premier interregional group for fighting NS-based fascists.
- The New Pacific Order has signed the Treaty of the Olive with Lazarus, a mutual defense treaty.
- UEPU has been raided by a coalition of raiders led by The Black Hawks. Following a liberation and injunction by the Security Council, the entrenched raiders have been unable to transition the region to a stronghold.
- The Region That Has No Big Banks has launched foreign affairs reforms which seek to expand TRTHNBB’s reach in the NSGP sphere, opening embassies with the West Pacific and Lazarus, closing embassies with inactive partners, and announcing a new drive for interregional diplomacy, culture, and activity. To this end, ten new ambassadors were appointed.
- The Free Nations Federation, a unified government and community presiding over The Free Nations Region and Hive, has moved its capital to Equiterra, a new Stronghold region. The move comes in light of major constitutional reforms that attempt to revitalize the region and adapt to the Frontier/Stronghold update to NS. The goal is for Equiterra to serve as the chief stronghold region, Hive as the frontier, and The Free Nations Region to be maintained as a third option and puppet storage.
- Atlanticana has launched “The Neko Spotlight,” a regional newspaper reporting on the events of the region.
- The Lazarene post-F/S regional property has been named “The Palisade” following a region-wide contest and vote.
- The League & Concord has joined the Modern Gameplay Compact, in an attempt by the remaining signatories to pursue membership reform adapting to the departure of The Pacific and the West Pacific. League founder, Consul, and former Chief Consul Quebecshire has stated that TL&C’s early goals for the MGC, agreed upon by the other signatories, include amending the preamble to accommodate Defender regions as well as unaligned and independent ones.
- The Lair of the Dragon, a relatively new raider region founded by former Grey Warden East Chimore, has unveiled The Tome of the Wyrms, an art-based cultural project inspired by the Calling Cards of the Brotherhood of Malice.
- Thaecian Prime Minister Toerana V and Minister of Foreign Affairs Islamic Country of Honour have both resigned from their respective positions. Deputy Prime Minister Snalland has taken the reins as Prime Minister, stating he would serve the remainder of the term until elections this March.
- Over the course of January, The East Pacific has opened new consulates with Sparkalia, Kantrias, and The Region That Has No Big Banks.
Magisterium Update
By: Dremaur | Edited By: Vussul
Hello and welcome to my first Magisterium Update as the 60th Provost. This month has been productive, seeing four confirmations, two legislations, one amendment, and two new admittances! This makes 9 votes total for the month of January!
- [C-2024-1] [VOTE] Reconfirmation of Zukchiva to Conclave
- [C-2024-2] [VOTE] Reconfirmation of Bachtendekuppen to Conclave
- [C-2024-3] [VOTE] Reconfirmation of Libertanny to Conclave
- [C-2024-4] [VOTE] Reconfirmation of SirShadow to Conclave
- [L-2024-5] [VOTE] The Criminal Liability Act
- [A-2024-6] [VOTE] Amendment to the the Public Official Disclosure Act
- [L-2024-7] [VOTE] The Law Standards Act
- [P-2024-8] Admittance of Millyjamb to the Magisterium
- [P-2024-9] Admittance of EvanRikuta to the Magisterium
January saw 1 suspended magister become active again, 1 Magister suspended, and new Magisters EvanRikuta and Millyjamb, moving the total from 16 at the end of December to 18 going into February. 6 Magisters are inactive, 5 of which are suspended and 1 LOA.
Additionally, Deputy Provost Vussul has simplified the Magisterium application and reformatted the votes of the 56th Magisterium to the present from the Google spreadsheet into a forum post for record keeping. The next thing to cover will be updating the Provost templates.
Interview with the Delegate
By: Aivintis
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the current Delegate, Merlovich, who was elected in October 2024. Merlovich has risen from the peripheral RMB community to make great strides in The East Pacifican government, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the Executive branch.
Aivintis: Thank you for agreeing to be interviewed today. I understand you’re a busy man, running The East Pacific as you are.
Merlovich: No worries! Thank you for having me. The delegacy is indeed a busy job but I'm loving every minute of it.
Aivintis: What's it like to be the leader of one of the largest communities in NS? I know a bit about that myself, I suppose, but for our audience. What has your experience been like as Delegate?
Merlovich: It's been fun! As most people are aware I hadn't exactly been in government for years before I was elected Delegate, so there was a lot of nervousness at first as I figured my way around, but I got accustomed pretty quick and I've really enjoyed things thus far. I think it was when I first sent out a regional telegram that I really understood how massive the region is, I always triple-checked discord everyone pings that went out to maybe 50-100 people, so you should've seen how many times I re-read my first regionwide TG to over 5000 nations.
Aivintis: Oh yeah, regionwide telegrams scare me so much because you can't edit them, and sending a follow up to that many people doesn’t seem right, so I understand that pressure. You mentioned how large TEP is. How do you accommodate the diverse needs and opinions of our many community members?
Merlovich: That's an interesting question. I'll try not to go off on a tangent with my answer as best I can. You can't always please everyone, especially in a region as diverse and spread-out as ours is. The best thing to do is simply talk to people. If you're active enough, you sort of get a sense of people's thoughts. Sometimes it's worth reaching out directly as I've done many times, asking people for their opinions and input on topics that may impact them. I think communication is important, especially as a Delegate. When it comes to making decisions or policies that will impact the wider community, I try and ensure I have input from all sides and angles before finishing up. It's worth delaying something by a week or two if it means everyone is included. Another thing that makes this point much easier is how diverse our government is – we've got roleplayers from all parts of TEP, raiders, defenders, indies, natives, cosmos, you name it. When you have a group that gets along so well despite these differences, it makes it so much easier as you hear opinions and advice from all angles.
Aivintis: I like the examples you gave about the diversity of our government - especially the differences in military ideology. How difficult is it to maintain TEP’s unalignment despite these internal variations? And are there any external factors which you have to consider?
Merlovich: It's not always easy. I think internally it's a lot simpler, you'll always have differing opinions on FA matters, so discussions may be impacted by people's personal viewpoints and alignments. At the end of the day though, everyone is respectful and understands TEP's position on unalignment. I find outside pressures tend to be more common and difficult to handle. We've had plenty of run-ins during my first term with individuals who criticize our non-alignment, and all you can really do is reinforce our position and remind them we won't be diverting from our path and beliefs. Inevitably there will always be parties from both sides that want you on theirs, and that's bound to be a struggle for any Delegate, and MoFA too, so it's a fun balancing act at times.
Aivintis: Yeah, I’d say foreign affairs is a pretty massive part of being a delegate, and for what it’s worth, I think you’ve been handling yourself well. Looking domestically, what sort of struggles have you faced in other ministries?
Merlovich: I think we've handled things pretty well with the cabinet I put together in October. The main struggle we've had to put up with is the departure of ministers. We lost our MoWAA and our MoN in pretty quick succession, and we had to pick up the slack on those, at least short-term. I've since been able to appoint Aurora as MoWAA, which is perfect given the experience she brings to the role, and I'm hoping to have a new Minister of News ready if I'm lucky enough to be re-elected next month. I was concerned that activity would be an issue, but it's a testament to our executive staffers that we've been able to run an efficient system and continue to get things done, even with sometimes difficult circumstances.
Aivintis: Oh? So you’re pursuing re-election?
Merlovich: Yes, I am.
Aivintis: I know many who seek re-election believe their work unfinished, but some do it for entirely new ideas and goals. Which category would you say you fall into?
Merlovich: I'm probably a bit of both. There's some areas, such as UTEP that are a work in progress, however four months as Delegate has definitely given me some thoughts as to things I'd like to work on over the next four months. My campaign will probably be a mix of finishing what we've started and beginning some new projects.
Aivintis: That's good to hear. You mentioned UTEP being a work in progress. What other areas do you feel like the government could improve upon?
Merlovich: I would say the number one area is the EPSA. I hadn't had too much interaction with it heading into my first election so it never particularly crossed my radar, but I'd like to revamp it and open the door to new recruitment drives and activity there.
Aivintis: That’s fair. I think it’s a common curse of delegacies. Now I know you’re a busy man, so I’ll let you go soon, but I was wondering: What’s your favorite part about being Delegate?
Merlovich: I think it's the challenge of it all. I've been in The East Pacific since 2018, and outside of a dead-end culture ministry application in my first year, I never really gave a hoot what went on in government. In the last year I've gone from a full time RMB'er and Cartographer to leading the entire region. It's been at times incredibly challenging to navigate what was a fairly unusual and new landscape for me, but I've loved it. I've really enjoyed going from being absolutely clueless about things to being at the centre of it all. Whatever happens in next month's election, whether it's myself or someone else elected, there's bound to be more challenges ahead and I'm excited to see how we face them.
Aivintis: Thank you very much for your time. Before we end this interview, is there anything you'd like to share with our audience, or anything you wish to communicate to the members of our community?
Merlovich: Just a really big thank you for reading and making EPNS the best dang newsletter in all of NationStates B)
Aivintis: Wonderful. Thank you again for your time, and for your thoughtful responses! Have a great day.
Praesidium Update
By: Aivintis
Over the course of January, Grand Vizier Aivintis granted citizenship to 6 residents of The East Pacific and processed 3 clerical changes to the citizenship roster. Leading up to the February 2024 Delegate Election, the Grand Vizier encourages all residents to apply for citizenship if they wish to vote for our future. 2 applications sent this month are pending telegram confirmation. 2 applications were improperly filed, but only 1 was corrected.
As per the Standing Orders of the Praesidium, the elections for the Grand Vizier and Eastern Pacific Police Service Commissioner are in progress. The Praesidium leadership is elected to six month terms with no term limits. Elections will last two weeks and all candidate nominations must be seconded and accepted. Self-nominations must only be seconded. In the February Praesidium Update, a candidate list shall be released alongside results but, for now, nothing is finalized.
New Vizier Dremaur has risen in endorsements at record speed, and now sits comfortably above the endorsement cap. No endorsement cap violations were noted, but Viziers are on alert following the discovery that KAISERREICH operatives were using The East Pacific as a puppet storage and jump point. Any operatives doing such will be banned for reasons of regional security. Following the request of the Grand Vizier, the Overseeing Officer has been granted access to the Citizenship Office discord channel to ease consultancy on matters of EPSA-dependent citizenships.
Why stay in the East Pacific, according to a Citizen
By: Atrocha
The following is a feature from our very own University of The East Pacific. If you'd like to write articles like these and have them featured in the EPNS, get in touch with Chancellor Aivintis
BEGINNING
I was founded in the East Pacific in the first days of June 2022. Back then I searched for something like “political simulator”, and a website showed up the recommendation to use NationStates. So I decided to join NS to try it out: I don’t regret anything.
Since I was new, I barely knew how NS and the regions worked, so due in part to my ignorance of that, I stayed in the East Pacific. I saw the part of solving issues, raising scores, joining the World Assembly and voting on resolutions. Very good, I said. But over time it became monotonous. And I wanted to see what other gadgets this game had in store.
The memories of when I started are vague. In fact, I didn’t start the game properly until August 2022 (I don’t have time to spare), however, thanks to the files, I can remember those first moments I was in the game, and of course, in the East Pacific. On June 9, I wrote to the RMB for the first time about why my civil rights had been lowered when I banned gambling rights. Ultra rookie question. I didn’t receive a response, mainly, I deduce, because I was asking about something in the game, something not attractive in a RMB accustomed to roleplay.
I wrote to RMB again on July 10 (a month later), about the existence of a TEP wiki. The friend Kavanos told me that they existed on the forums, but not in the RMB. I looked at the forums, and already going somewhere external seemed tedious and uninteresting for the game (I’m writing on the TEP forum now, how ironic). By then I was already getting a little immersed in TEP issues, but not definitively, because I didn’t have time to spare.
At an early stage, I wanted to join TEP politics (seeing all those government positions looked so juicy). I followed the Hussars of the East program to the letter, and became a Hussar (I thought they were going to give me a badge in my game profile, a shame). However, I wanted to get more and more involved in politics. I telegraphed Albrook, the then delegate, telling her how I entered politics after supporting the viziers (yes, seriously, I thought she would respond to me). Then, I got an automated message from Albrook a week after being at TEP. I (obviously) responded by saying that “I always thought my nation would be based in the Pacific.”
EXPERIENCE
From the first days of being at TEP, I can say that I did not feel excluded from the region. Only, of course, I had to dare to come out of my shell to be able to get involved in the region. Now, that’s where my visions of the region diverge. In July 2022 I was admitted to Valsora, the RMB regional map. From there, I began to take my first steps in roleplay, and get to know the internal TEP community.
TEP is “divided” into communities, which at first may be very distant from each other, but whose similarities are easily noticeable. Let’s say that I belong to the RMB community, historically neglectful of government and gameplay issues, and focused almost exclusively on roleplay. Valsora, the quintessential map in the RMB and about which I wrote a treatise a while ago, has been a place where I made many friends and where I was able to make my writing and world-building talents known.
Thus, I was able to meet Merlo, the owner of Aislada, now Delegate; Romanoddle, the good neutral guy who was one of my first allies; Dabir, the liberator of Unistan; Plazland, the cartographer until the end of 2022; Peatiktist, who keeps us informed; Paki, who although he was no longer a mod when I arrived, still inspires fear; Terreich and his great writings; Brex and Terrabis and their Winters novel; Malvekia and his newspaper; Myehn, Panga, Karcovshkie, Yucanoa, Battania, Kroz, Rajyam, Estande, Illiricium, Maneiras, the great Kampf, and others. The RMB was my place of growth as a TEP citizen, because there I met and developed many talents.
I lasted about a year as an “exclusively RMBer”, making factbooks related to Valsora, and occasionally joining occasional late-night conversations with people like La Xinga; the religious fights of Dumas and The Holy Rat; or spending time reading EK’s raw writings. The RMB community was a place where I could feel welcomed, where I could see, so to speak, “equals”, and it was a place where I learned a lot about different cultures.
I believe, without a doubt, that TEP’s RMB would be dead without roleplayers. They are an essential part of the idiosyncrasy of the region. And yes, it may be a bit biased in valuation growing up as part of this community, but, let’s be clear: the RMB is one of the first things that other NS in our region see, and its activity, its seasoning, its identity constructed empirically by a group of roleplayers in 2018 is what shapes the image of TEP, along with many other shapes.
So, in conclusion, my first reason for staying at TEP is its community of roleplayers and the good atmosphere of the RMB, that allows you to develop your abilities and be yourself.
But now let’s talk about the TEP Government community. As an RMBer, who was initially interested in entering regional politics, I saw how political decisions and backrooms came and went, while we went about our business.
I belong to the TEPers who arrived after Fedele’s coup. I have tried to document myself about the coup and its consequences. And I always read that one of the consequences was a “split” between the Government and the RMB community. And frankly, if you’re a newcomer, or not all that involved in how things work, you might think this “division” is reasonable: the government does its thing on the forums, and the roleplay community (excluding Urth, who I value it a lot and I intend to write about them in another article) in the game. It’s that simple.
Well, it’s not “that simple.” My thinking is that everything arises from the distrust that external forums exist in addition to the game. Distrust that exists throughout NS. I think that makes some RMBers uncomfortable or unable to participate in government. Either they do not want to enter a forum for their own safety, or they prefer to be outside of regional politics. But the non-participation of the RMB community allows the Government not to diversify. And then we complain that the Government does not diversify. A paradox.
Still, even though I myself bother entering the forums, I participate in some elections and referendums. I don’t know, since to date 4 delegates have passed, which one I voted for or which one I didn’t. I ultimately did not participate in Merlo’s election, I was involved in other matters. However, my desire to participate in the Government was still latent, and sometimes I returned to the MoFA to see what to do.
I admire that the Government community is always open to anyone who wants to participate in it. Even for foreigners. So, in short, I cannot say that the TEP government is impenetrable. It is a government where anyone with the will can participate.
I have met members of the Government who are very kind, and are willing to have many more join regional politics. That’s another thing I want to highlight about TEP: all opportunities are open. You can always enter and give your suggestions or participate whenever you want. A clear example is the current government we have: Merlovich is a well-known Valsoran, and I never thought that he would reach the position of Delegate. In Condemn Kampf, RMBers came together for the first time to join the World Assembly and vote For, in one of the most exceptional citizen participations I have seen. Little by little, the “curtain” goes away and the TEP communities become harmonized.
This means that TEP is not a region of factions, it is a region where everyone has their talent, creativity and thoughts, and we develop these in our own fields, but when we unite for a common cause, the region smoothly coordinates to it. This is the second reason why I stay at TEP: we are such a diverse community, but at the same time united, being proud of what we have built as a region, and open to whoever wants to build it with us.
I have been a citizen since July 4, 2022 and a member of the staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intermittently between 2022, 2023 and 2024. Since November 2023, I have been a Magister. I have been getting more involved in government affairs, learning little by little, and I am grateful to Serge, who welcomed me to MoFA for the first time, and to Aivintis, a talented writer who belongs to all TEP communities and is interested in We RMBers participate in the government, which I applaud.
I have seen many regions as I have traveled through NS. I don’t know if it’s out of habit, laziness, regional pride, or what, but I have never wanted to leave TEP. It’s a certain “I-don’t-know-what.” But of course, I can’t put “I don’t-know-what” as a reason. Otherwise this article would not be serious, if it still is.
What I am sure of, and what differentiates TEP from the others, is that it doesn’t bother me at all being here. It is a place quiet enough to continue with your life, but not monotonously, like a place active enough, but not suffocating. A place where we don’t worry so much about the latest NSGP (which I’m still trying to understand), and where the return of a friend causes an explosion of messages in the RMB. TEP is the place, according to my perspective, where you always feel comfortable. In that whatever you do, politics, games, RPs, memes, you will always be welcomed or even flattered by someone. You simply have to take the first step.
I appreciate and stay in TEP for this third reason: the balance and comfort of living in a region of wonderful people. It is not regionalist pride. It’s simple experience.
CONCLUSION
Well, I have given three main reasons (of the many that can arise and exist) as to why to stay in TEP. A friendly RMB community, an inclusive government and a comfortable place. That is, according to my perspective as a citizen of the East Pacific since my entry into the game.
Now, you may be wondering: so TEP is perfect? No, TEP is not perfect, there are always imperfections. You will meet other citizens who will have different perspectives of the region to which they belong. Would there be things to improve? In my opinion, strive to connect between communities.
TEP communities are valuable in their own right. But the cooperation between us, keeping each other informed and warding off disinterest, reinforcing the connections we made at special events, connections that I believe we can maintain all the time. For me, what is important is citizen participation and the diversification of the Government, that the TEPers of the RMB and the forums begin to delve into regional affairs. Something that the Ministry of Outreach, led by our beloved Romanoddle, has done and I applaud them for it.
It’s complicated? Not at all, and what’s more, it gives them many benefits: they keep the region safe, they promote policies to maintain the harmony of the communities, they hold events where all residents can participate. Enter organizations such as the Magisterium or the staffs of the Ministries to make your suggestions known. I think that today more than ever, TEPers must be aware of our responsibilities in the region where we have stayed.
I have made fantastic things and connections in the East Pacific. A place I can call home in NationStates (literally, I was born here). If you are in TEP, I would invite you to become more united on regional issues and explore our communities. If you are outside of TEP, you can join. You will not regret it.
Socializing and Etiquette
By: Aivintis
The following is a worldbuilding feature from the official map of The East Pacific's RMB - Valsora
Throughout the Directorate, the spacing of the land and concentration of the population in small, rural communities, has led to a distinct antisocial quality to most Zemedievans. Newcomers and travelers often see Directorate citizens, then, as apathetic, difficult to connect with, and often distrustful of outsiders. Zemedievans tend to keep to themselves and their close circle of friends. Small talk is uncommon in social settings, and personal space is valued.
Underneath the cold demeanor, Zemedievans tend to be very close with those they call friend. Small groups of three to five friends who maintain very close relationships with each other are not uncommon, especially in smaller communities. Typically, for older adults, especially in urban and suburban communities, neighbors fulfill these roles. However, having larger groups of friends, or a small number of friends without any group structure, are just as prevalent. In any case, such close friends are treated like family, even when distant relatives are treated more like strangers or acquaintances.
The typical manner of address for everyone who isn't a close friend or family member is by usage of honorifics such as Mr, Ms, or Mx, followed by their surname. First names are reserved for friends, with minors being the sole exception. In public, courtesy and politeness is key. In those interactions which do occur between two or more people who aren't personally close, such as during a transaction or work event, all conversational parties are expected to treat all others with deference and a degree of formality. This foundational component of respect is central to Zemedievan society. Strangers are to be treated politely, including holding doors open, pulling out chairs, and such. Furthermore, conversation often features compliments, even between two absolute strangers.
As time goes on and two individuals become closer, this formality sheds. Privacy and personal space is somewhat lessened as people become close friends, or as dating progresses. Endearing nicknames become more common. Poking fun at another person, even in a small way, can either be a sign of absolute disrespect or close affection, with little in between, and the difference typically amounts to whether or not both parties feel the same degree of comfort and closeness, which can sometimes be tricky for immigrants to grasp, or those who struggle with social cues. Luckily for them, rudeness is typically shrugged off, for fear of being rude in return. What social consequences exist for rupturing social norms are limited and politely executed.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in Zemedievan society. Although not quite so strict in Kamyachyn, and within more close-knit communities, such as small villages, hugs and kisses in a public place are seen as rude, in that they are immodest, shedding the personal privacy Zemedievan culture values as well as the formality and distance of public life. Couples and sometimes even very close friends, can be seen holding hands, sitting closely, or leaning on each other, but beyond that, physical affection, such as wrapping one's arm around someone, is generally reserved for privacy. For strangers and acquaintances, handshakes serve as an adequate form of greeting, particularly with direct eye contact. When seeing someone you know along the street, a smile and/or a nod is sufficient.
Social events are typically tied to holidays and business events. Large gatherings otherwise are generally uncommon. In rural areas, even these can be exceedingly rare. In all cases, social gatherings, being public events, are treated semi-formally. Strangers can be met and conversation tends to come more freely and naturally, but at the same time, people who do know each other don't tend to split up much. Most of these rules are loosened in gatherings of minors or young adults, for whom the laws of etiquette aren't so strict, and familiarity is more common. Alcoholic beverages and smoking during any public gathering, even on private property, is considered extremely rude.
Gift giving in Zemedievai is typically reserved for occasions where both parties are expected to have gifts for each other, such as holidays. Otherwise, surprise gifts can make Zemedievans uncomfortable. Exceptions include weddings and promotions. Gifts of flowers are common, but the color can carry certain meanings. White flowers are for weddings, pink flowers are for romantic partners, and red flowers are for funerals. Other gifts can be wrapped or not. In the case of a gift exchange, they are typically opened immediately upon being received, but even during weddings, gifts are opened in front of the gift giver.
When invited over to someone's home for dinner, gifts of flowers, wine, or sweets are expected for the host. Shoes should be removed at the door, and hands should be washed before and after the meal. Table manners are relaxed, but the place of seating is determined by the host. Napkins are kept on the table, food should be taken in small portions, but is most often served by the host, and one is to only eat when the host has finished serving and begun eating themselves. Toasts are uncommon, but, when done, it is taboo to toast with water. Other non-alcoholic beverages, however, are permitted.
Business meetings tend to be face-to-face and by-appointment. Virtual meetings such as calls or video calls are seen as too impersonal. Business relationships tend to become friendships, and vice versa, so there is an expected friendliness and pursuit of personal connection. Punctuality is strictly observed. To a lesser extent, this has influenced etiquette for social meetings as well, but following these norms are more important when rudeness can be seen as cause to look elsewhere for a transaction or business partnership.
by Rosartemis » Sun Feb 18, 2024 10:29 pm
by Valtarre » Sun Feb 18, 2024 11:15 pm
by Aivintis » Tue Feb 20, 2024 2:27 pm
Valtarre wrote:Another fantastic and informative edition of The Foreign Newsstand. I'm beginning to see Aivintis as a valuable reporter, as his summaries are genuinely fantastic for historical reference. I can easily see myself referring back to editions of his articles in the future, when I need to remember what happened in a certain month. I didn't even know about Equiterra, I appreciate the dedication to smaller and more overlooked news that might go unnoticed, buried under the more trendy headlines. Keep up the good work!
by Merlovich » Wed Mar 13, 2024 6:01 am
by Eastern Pacific News Service » Wed Mar 13, 2024 6:04 am
Contents:
- Delegate's Update
- NDay10, A Tale of Darkhorses
- Magisterium and Culture Update
- Praesidium Update
- Interview with Eastern Alksearia
- The Foreign Newsstand
- Analysis: How Activity in The East Pacific changed throughout 2023
- Valentine's Day Article
- Expectations and Confusion: How NDay10 came to be
- The Eight Hours War
Delegate's Update
By: Merlovich | Edited by Altys
Hello hello! What a month we’ve had here in TEP, hey?
Let’s start with the biggest event of all, the heartless nuclear apocalypse that is N-Day. You’ll get a full rundown later in the edition, courtesy of your wonderful commander Altys, but hoo-boy do you guys deserve one massive round of applause for your efforts. It is immensely satisfying to come out on top, and I can't think of anyone more deserving. TEP obviously must give a massive thank you to those regions who fought alongside us this N-Day.
To our friends from The Black Hawks, Warzone Trinidad, The Free Nations Region, Sparkalia, Kantrias, Astoria, The Communist Bloc, The Leftist Assembly, Atlanticana, Karma, Lair of the Dragon, Lazarus and Alstromerian Commonwealths, thank you! We’re immensely proud to work alongside you on N-Day, and we hope to continue working together for many N-Days to come.
I was very proud to hand out several awards this month, many of which were related to our victory in N-Day. Of course, Altys was awarded our highest N-Day honour, the Gold Order of Annihilation, for his tremendous work and effort not just this N-Day, but for many N-Days previous. Vulbania was awarded the Silver Order of Annihilation for their outstanding performance in the event, and Eastern Alksearia, Gemeinschaftsland, The Spinoff, Eshgh and rosari were all awarded the Bronze Order of Annihilation for their efforts. Not to be left out, our former Minister of News and tirelessly working executive staffer Vussul was awarded the Silver Order of Maintenance for their hard work building, organizing and maintaining our region's dispatch framework.
In the Executive, we've been hard at work over the last few weeks. We've had a couple things take up a lot of our time, notably the nuclear apocalypse, as well as our NEST repeal, which I'll touch on shortly. Our EPSA rework is coming along nicely, we've made steps forward on a questionnaire to be sent out in the coming weeks, as well as a lot of brainstorming of potential themes, structures and general operations. We're also looking to get started on porting over UTEP works to the new framework under Chancellor Aivintis. Our FA rework was put on hold while we handled the NEST repeal, but we'll be getting back to work this week. Our Culture Ministry has been running quite well, with Valentines Day events this month, as well as the upcoming Rogue Rendezvous event alongside TNP, NPO and Carcassonne. We're looking forward to more events in the near future, as well as the continuation of the Hunger Games. In FA News, TEP took part in Operation: Midnight Hour to secure our friends in Atlanticana this month. More can be read here.
Our Foreign Affairs Council and Magisterium have been the hardest workers this month, as discussions with TNP reached their finale. We've made the difficult decision to repeal our nearly decade-old NEST [North-East Security Treaty] agreement with The North Pacific. Both sides have agreed irreconcilable differences exist, and TEP remained unsatisfied with TNP's lack of interest in repairing the relationship. TEP and TNP have had a rocky relationship for the better part of two years, and this week marked an unfortunate breaking point, where we felt things could continue at this pace no longer. Our FA Council has released a statement that delves further into the matter, however for those who may not see it, I figured it should be noted here also. TEP looks forward to furthering our existing friendships, as well as creating new friendships in the future. More can be read here.
That's all from me this month. Thank you all again for a tremendous effort this N-Day, and I look forward to writing to you all again in next months edition.
NDay10, A Tale of Darkhorses
By: Altys
From February 24th 2200 GMT to February 25th 2200 GMT, the tenth edition of N-Day unfolded, revealing a battlefield fraught with unforeseen dynamics. Notably absent were two stalwart competitors, The Potato Alliance and the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, casting a shadow over the event. Left in their wake were factions which we could've qualified of darkhorses: Kingly Heathens Asserting Neighborliness (as Cosmic Corsairs in February 2023), Anime Nations Against Liberals (in 2022), Jellyfish Elite Fighting Force (in September 2023), and the Starlight Brigade (in September 2023).
However this battlefield was not one all factions expected the way it ended up looking. Several foresaw the return of the Potato Alliance and the Horsemen, with some expecting the Horsemen to rise in formidable strength compared to September 2023. A few even speculated that the remaining factions would surpass their prowess from the previous edition. However, the most astonishing twist unfolded with the merger of Kingly Heathens Asserting Neighborliness and the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, birthing the massive Kingly Horsemen Asserting Neighborliness. This merger held the potential to ascend into a megafaction, altering the dynamics of the event in ways unseen since the sixth edition of NDay.
Read more about NDay in the last two articles!
Magisterium and Culture Updates
By: Dremaur and Cappedore | Edited by Altys
Hello reader. You will find below a small update on activity within TEP's legislature, the Magisterium, as well as an announcement from the Ministry of culture. Both were condensed due to the amount of articles within this edition!
Magisterium Update
February had four legislative amendments which passed the Magisterium, listed below. We also saw a new magister join us this month, Langburn. Alongside these votes, lots of legislative discussions have arisen, leading to a renewal in legislative activity as opposed to the recent lull.
- [A-2024-10] Amendment to the Standing Orders of the Magisterium, Section V
- [A-2024-11] Addtional amendments to the Standing Orders of the Magisterium
- [A-2024-12] Amendment to the Delegate Elections Act
- [A-2024-13] Amendment to the Citizenship Act
Culture Update
It’s been a busy one here at the Ministry of Culture! This month we’ve been planning and preparing for our upcoming interregional event: Rogue Rondezvous, normally starting on Friday 15th March!
During the course of this event, we will be hosting many activities, including a treasure hunt, watch parties, a night of chess, a board games arena, and even the regional favourite… Hunger Games! We will also be hosting game nights of Jackbox, Skribbl.io, and “Secret Hitler”, with some fun spam games along the side.
We would love to see you there! More details will be announced soon and I am planning many many more events and activities for the coming spring and summer periods, so make sure to watch out!
Praesidium Update
By: Aivintis
Over the course of February, Grand Vizier Aivintis granted citizenship to 8 residents of The East Pacific and processed 1 clerical change to the citizenship roster. In order to ensure the integrity of the February 2024 Delegate Elections, Grand Vizier Aivintis initiated a citizenship audit to confirm that all voters in the election were indeed residents of TEP with a valid WA nation on record, or a confirmed claim to EPSA exception.
At the beginning of the audit, 12 citizenships were flagged as invalid. Two citizens corrected their citizenship within the legal 48 hour period, leading nine citizenships to be immediately removed at the end, with a tenth maintained pending Conclave action. Regarding this last invalid citizenship, the citizen in question filed a lawsuit against the Citizenship Office during the period in which correction was requested. When this Civil Trial was rejected by the Conclave At Large for lack of need and a lack of merit.
Citizens are reminded to ensure that their resident nation remains alive and in TEP, and that their WA nation remains alive as well, or else that their EPSA exception is filed – the Grand Vizier will reach out to the Overseeing Officer to confirm this. Pending citizenship applications and clerical changes remain awaiting telegram confirmation. The Grand Vizier once again encourages all residents to apply for citizenship so that they may exercise their right to vote in Delegate elections and Concordat referendums.
As per the Standing Orders of the Praesidium, the elections for the Grand Vizier and Eastern Pacific Police Service Commissioner were begun in January, though a delay was incurred due to the fault of the Grand Vizier himself. Once corrected, however, the elections continued. At the beginning of February, Grand Vizier Aivintis and Eastern Pacific Police Commissioner Marrabuk were both re-elected unopposed, with the unanimous consent of the Praesidium At Large. The Praesidium leadership is elected to six month terms with no term limits.
And now, a message from the Westmorian Ministry of Cultural Outreach...
Bittersweet Poetry
Kanye West ft. John Mayer
Artist: Kanye West
Featured Artists: John Mayer (and in some versions Keyshia Cole)
Album: Graduation
Genre: Rap
Released: 2007
Runtime: 4:02
You can accuse me of being biased towards Kanye, but I don't care much! One of Kanye's lesser-known songs thanks to its extremely small release scope, "Bittersweet Poetry" is a song about a man's bittersweet relationship with his partner, which can also be best described as borderline dysfunctional based on how Kanye speaks of the relationship in the lyrics. Originally written for Late Registration, West did not believe that this song fit with LR's soundscape, and as such it was shelved for quite a while before being added to Graduation as a bonus track for the Japanese release of his 2006 album. From its cutesy Animal Crossing-esque beat to its raw lyrics of a love that he can't let go of, even if it hurts him, this song and many others that Kanye has written is truly a special gem that I will hold on to all my life.
Other versions on the internet feature backing vocals by Keyshia Cole singing alongside Mayer's voice.
Interview with Eastern Alksearia
By: Aivintis
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the Overseeing Officer, Eastern Alksearia, otherwise known as Shadow. A former Delegate, Shadow is a prominent figure in East Pacifican politics, and is currently executing a plan to reform the Eastern Pacific Sovereign Army, our regional military.
Aivintis: Thanks for agreeing to be interviewed for EPNS. I know you're a very busy person, as the Overseeing Officer and an Arbiter of the Conclave. And not even that, but you also hold positions in other regions, yes?
Shadow: I do. I'm the Supreme Harbinger (note: Chief Justice) in Astoria, I'm the Speaker of the House of Commons in Thaecia, I do work for the Warzone Trinidad Mafia as well. It's a busy schedule, but I find fun in it.
Aivintis: Busy schedule indeed. How do you find a way balance your different regional associations? I know I, for one, very much struggle.
Shadow: Very simple. The way I interact in a region is similar to an RP, at least on the government level. I'm always myself in public channels where I'm just chatting with people. But in government, I don a different "persona". Astoria/Kantrias I have a specific image, in WZT I have a different persona, and even in TEP. Though, my persona in TEP is probably what is the most similar to me irl. Otherwise I'm on top of things because of pings or because people reach out to me in my DMs.
Aivintis: Right, yeah, pings and DMs are really all I need, too. You mentioned your personas across different regions, would you mind expanding on what kind of persona you’ve cultivated in TEP, and why?
Shadow: In TEP, my persona -as stated previously - is very much just my morals and ideals from irl and put into TEP. Though there are some tweaks. I am unabashedly me. I will not let someone ruin that. Plus. I take being in TEP government as fun. There's nothing happening in TEP that should make or break my day.
Aivintis: That’s totally fair. How have your experiences in TEP been so far — you’ve been here coming up on four years now, I think?
Shadow: Yup, April 28th will be 4 years. It's crazy to think that I've been doing this for 4 years. But I think TEP is becoming a second home to me.
Aivintis: I think a lot of us can relate to that. Getting into the meat of the interview, I was wondering what your duties are as Overseeing Officer. Obviously, you’re the leader of our Army, but what does that entail?
Shadow: As Overseeing Officer, i usually cordinate with other militaries for EPSA to join in on. During this term it's been a bunch of fashbashes, but there have been a few liberations and even a couple tag raids. I am also responsible for keeping track of how many operations people participate in and promoting people.
Aivintis: How has EPSA been, activity-wise, throughout your tenure?
Shadow: We have done a bunch. We went Fash bashing with WZT during Operation Cabaret and then during its sequel Sacrumterra. We help liberate WZT a couple times. But mainly, we aren't doing our own ops currently. Mainly, it's my own fault. I havent gotten a time to sit down and plan operations for EPSA. I want to. I'm currently planning something (but no spoilers).
Aivintis: Ooh. I’m looking forward to see what you’re planning. Moving backwards from talk of the future to talk of the past, what accomplishments are you most proud of within the last term?
Shadow: Within the last term, I'm very proud of our soldiers bashing the Fash with old friends and new friends. The most proud one is Sacrumterra as I got to be the point and I now hold the keys to Eden.
Aivintis: That was definitely a prominent moment, and a point of regional pride for me, although I wasn't able to attend due to being WA-locked. Apart from fash bashes, what other kinds of operations has EPSA seen in the past few months?
Shadow: I remember the days when I was WA locked. Fond memories. Speaking of fond memories, I also have fond memories of liberating WZT both times. Our Army has some people assist with the siege of UEPU.
Aivintis: Our allies in WZT have definitely faced a lot of attacks, and it’s heartening to see our military support our friends. Especially from the perspective of a civilian Foreign Councillor. How do you see the relationship between FA and EPSA? How do they influence each other?
Shadow: A and the entirety of R/D go hand in hand. They influence both. It's a delicate dance and balance between the two. EPSA is definitely heavily influenced by our FA. I wouldn't conduct an operation for EPSA if it jeopardized our FA.
Aivintis: Understandable. Now, I was curious. Would you say EPSA is often overlooked or underrated? I mean, it's a somewhat detached Executive department from my observations.
Shadow: I wouldn't say EPSA is overlooked. I think it is a little underrated. I think people don't see us doing as much and thinking we aren't there, but I assure you, we are there. We are going to go through a rebrand which will help breathe life into EPSA.
Aivintis: Rebranding is a huge thing, but I’m also wondering, what other changes do you hope to last beyond your term?
Shadow: I would love to see the Command team lead ops on their own, and maybe have EPSA start to lead their own ops in general.
Aivintis: Well thank you so much for your time. Before we go, is there anything else you’d like to say to the citizens of TEP?
Shadow: Thank you all for reading this article, y'all are amazing, and keep doing what you're doing.
Aivintis: Alright. Thank you again for your time!
Shadow: My pleasure!
The Foreign Newsstand
By: Aivintis and Altys
Hello and welcome to the Foreign Newsstand. We in The East Pacific’s FA Watch are tasked with discussing and debating news of global significance within NationStates Gameplay (NSGP). With an eye on the forums and the news reports of our allies, we see discussion on a wide range of interregional political topics. For the purposes of sharing interregional news, I’ve developed this quick Newsstand to summarize the goings-on of our diplomatic partners and other regions. Here are the major events of February 2024:
- George Stewart was elected Prime Minister of the region United Kingdom (NSUK), alongside the election of a new Parliament and the appointment of a new Cabinet.
- After a quick period of internal instability which spilled over to the public realms through a statement of former Prime Minister Snalland, Thaecia has voted through a referendum with a 94% majority to abolish its constitution and all legal resolutions, replacing the government with a Constitutional Convention. Elections for the Convention are ongoing.
- The Red Fleet, a major anti-fascist military coalition, has signed a treaty with Atlanticana, a neutral region which maintains an embassy with TEP.
- A Taco Paradise, a region under the control of 10000 Islands, has been converted into a Frontier.
- Europe was raided by VULPINE, a coalition of invader militaries. Though the invading forces were repelled, it was done too late to prevent any damage to the region. As a stronghold, a raiding force cannot fully capture Europe, but the Delegate does hold Executive powers to appoint and dismiss Regional Officers, the necessary element of any raid. Over the course of this one, mass ejections were undertaken, reducing the region’s population by more than half. Statements by the European government reaffirm the region’s neutrality and denounce the raid as well as criticism of their security system, committing to moving forward with their “endorsement happy” culture.
- Shortly after the raid on Europe, The Amaranthine Isles, the frontier region of The Order of the Grey Wardens, began the process of converting into a Stronghold. The Amaranthine Isles was made a frontier originally in May 2023. TGW cites stagnating spawn rates, a lack of integration staff, and urgency following the raid on Europe as the causes of the transition.
- The Grey Wardens have reworked their faction system, which is based on the Dragon Age series. Factions who do the best in TGW’s internal competition will be honored in the region’s flag and World Factbook Entry, as well as through cosmetic perks. Additionally, points can now be earned through games such as Wordle and Tetris, documented on the newly created Quest Calendar.
- After the deletion of a known fascist and homophobic founder of a significant number of regions, including The Raxulan Empire, a massive anti-fascist operation involving Astoria, Warzone Trinidad, Voidcall, and The Shadows seized 150 fascist regions.
- The Order of the Grey Wardens has appointed Tim Stark as First Warden once again, after a period of inactivity. Tim denounces the treatment of some members by others and suggests he may be bringing back “the old TGW”.
- The Treaty of the Isles has been signed between Sparkalia and Sophia. As Sophia remains a demilitarized region, the Treaty largely focused on World Assembly cooperation.
- In response to the Europe raid, The Modern Gameplay Compact, now containing the regions Balder, The North Pacific, Europeia, and The League & Concord, strengthened sanctions on raider regions, including the explicit addition of the region Sparkalia to the sanctions, as well as the expansion of sanction conditions, which now applies such sanctions to Caer Sidi, Kantrias, Atlanticana, and Astoria, among others. Kantrias and Atlanticana have issued statements in response to these sanctions – Atlanticana used the phrase “irrelevant sanctions by a decaying compact”, whereas Kantrias described them as “frivolous and ineffectual”.
- Founder of The League Quebecshire underwent a covert espionage operation in the Brotherhood of Malice, which ended anticlimactically without much shift in the war or the balance of power.
- The Treaty of Divine Treasures was signed between Astoria and The Lair of the Dragon, two newcomer raider regions which have quickly entered the gameplay sphere. The treaty is a non-aggression pact with information sharing elements.
- Quebecshire has been appointed Deputy Minister of War in Balder.
- Astoria has undergone a massive retheme, branding themselves as the Celestial Order, with angelic imagery reminiscent of the theme used by Archkeeper Rosartemis in the anti-fascist Operation Eden. With the former theme being a Crowned Republic, Astoria has now distinguished itself from other regions quite strongly.
- In Operation Cinder, Kantrias executed the griefing of the fascist and racist region Ardenia, alongside the Red Fleet, Antifa, Sparkalia, Astoria, The Communist Bloc, Osiris, The Brotherhood of Malice, The Black Hawks, and Lair of the Dragon.
- Atlanticana released a joint statement regarding Operation Midnight Hour, a military operation aimed at guaranteeing the security of Atlanticana. The statement denounced threats of attack, and was signed by allied and associated regions, including The East Pacific.
Analysis: How Activity in The East Pacific changed throughout 2023
By: Altys
Throughout the year 2023, The East Pacific experienced a dynamic landscape characterized by numerous departures and arrivals within its community, the introduction of the impactful Frontiers/Strongholds game update, and shifts in its network of Discord servers. As the year concluded, we saw the RMB Cafeteria Discord server attaining official status as a TEP server and previous publications in this newspaper featuring opinion articles suggesting a decline in activity within TEP. Motivated by these observations, I set out to compile and analyze activity data, aiming to discern patterns and make predictions about the future trajectory of the region's community.
DEFINITIONS
Before we begin I will list and define here a number of terms used in this paper:
- Subcommunity - One of the three "groups" under the TEP umbrella. Where TEP is the overarching community, each of these group is referred to as subcommunity.
- Valsora - Roleplay setting of the Regional Message Board Roleplay (RMB RP), Also used to refer to the RMB RP subcommunity.
- RMB Cafetaria - Discord server housing the RMB RP Community and the Valsora Cartography Council (elected body with authority over Valsora).
- Urth - Roleplay setting of the Forum Roleplay. Can also be used to refer to the subcommunity of the same.
- Retirement Home - Discord server where past and current Delegates, Ministers, Government members interact, generally to meme about random stuff or talk about IRL.
STATISTICAL BIAS
In analyzing the activity within TEP, our method focuses on aggregating messages exclusively from TEP's official discussion centers, namely the RMB and its official Discord servers. It's crucial to note that this approach omits data from group chats, direct messages between TEP members, voice chat discussions, and conversations on non-official TEP Discord servers (such as the NDay server, festival Discord servers, etc.). Consequently, while the presented statistics are not inaccurate, they fall short of complete precision. This limitation is particularly noteworthy for Urth, where we did not include forum or wiki activity, leading to a slight underrepresentation in raw numbers; and TEP Main, where we did not include forum activity either.
STATISTICS
The examination of TEP's activity statistics involves a comparative analysis between the first and second semesters of 2023 across all official TEP Discords and the RMB. This will be achieved by considering the total number of messages sent on each platform, excluding any messages sent in moderation log channels for Discord servers.
First Semester of 2023
During the initial six months of 2023, a total of 533 627 posts were observed in The East Pacific across all official Discords and the RMB. An intriguing observation arises when we categorize these posts based on their respective occurrence areas and color them according to the subcommunities they belong to (Green for the Main server, the Government, and affiliates; Yellow for the RMB RP and affiliates; and Blue for the Forum RP). Notably, Valsora emerges as the primary contributor to regional activity, generating 296 348 posts, which accounts for 60% of the entire recorded activity in the first semester.
There are different ways to explain these numbers.
- The Executive's activity during the period from January to early May can be contextualized as a recovery phase from a preceding period of inactivity. Headquartered in a separate server due to the demands of the COVID era, the Executive saw limited engagement until March. With much of the legwork falling on the Delegate or Ministers and a scarcity of staffers, the resulting decrease in interactions translated to fewer posted messages.
- The Main server, akin to the RMB Cafeteria or TEP Urth Roleplay, functions as a community hub. However, considering the aforementioned recovery period, it lacks the additional layer of activity found in roleplay or overarching discussions. Topics discussed here could often find equivalent platforms for discussion in the RMB Cafe or Urth RP.
- The RMB, particularly the RMB Cafeteria, serves as the primary entry point into the region, acting as a showcase. This prominence results in a higher likelihood of new players interacting and posting there first, contributing to an increased number of posts from this subgroup.
- In contrast, the Forum RP serves as an endpoint in TEP, attracting retired TEPers. Given the typical entry route through the main server or the RMB, there is a reduced likelihood of posts from new players in this subcommunity.
- Notably, Urth and Valsora, representing two nation roleplays, operate with distinct dynamics. Valsora, characterized by live-action roleplay set in the present, fosters frequent interaction, multiple posts about the same events, and increased player engagement. Conversely, Urth, centered on worldbuilding roleplay spanning centuries or millennia within the same timeline, encourages detailed engagement with the same event over an extended period in a comprehensive wiki page or forum thread, resulting in less player engagement.
With the points made above the numbers we get make more sense. Now to see whether the F/S update, the summer slump and other events will see them change for the next six months!
Second Semester of 2023
During the final six months of 2023, a total of 350 493 posts were recorded in The East Pacific across all official Discords and the RMB, marking a notable 34.3% decrease in overall activity. Intriguingly, this decline affected all official TEP discussion centers, except the main TEP Discord server, which actually witnessed an 11.1% increase in activity.
Among the other major centers, the RMB Cafeteria experienced a substantial 65.8% drop in activity, the RMB itself saw a 33.8% decrease, and TEP Urth Roleplay observed a 25.5% decline. A closer examination of subcommunity activity shares in TEP reveals a significant shift, with Valsora's share dropping from 60% to 39.1%. In contrast, the main server + Government experienced a rise in its share from 31.1% to 45.8%, establishing itself as the most active subcommunity within TEP. The Urth subcommunity remained relatively stable, with its share changing marginally from 13.4% to 15.1%.
The extrapolation from these numerical trends indicates a discernible pattern: Valsora experienced a contraction in size, Urth exhibited stagnation, and the Main/Government subcommunity demonstrated growth.
- The Summer Slump, a period from July to late September, contributed to reduced activity across TEP, impacting engagement levels across the region.
- The relocation of The East Pacific's Government back to the main TEP server resulted in increased activity over time, introducing a previously unseen level of engagement.
- The Main TEP server witnessed a surge in new members during the two terms under the former Delegate Altys, fostering additional activity that had not been observed previously.
- The monthly Hunger Games initiative gained traction from July 2023 onwards, attracting over 50 sign-ups for each event and generating substantial activity during the event nights—a new source of engagement.
- The Frontiers/Stronghold update reduced Feeders' spawns, including TEP's spawns, by half. The RMB, being the primary beneficiary in terms of activity and membership from newly founded nations, lost 50% of the activity coming from these overnight.
- The retirement of several prominent and highly active members of Valsora in late June/early July led to a disappearance of previously observed huge amounts of activity on the RMB and RMB Cafeteria.
- Unlike the aforementioned changes, Urth remained stable, with no significant retirements or major additions to its ecosystem, maintaining relatively consistent activity levels.
Now seeing those shifts in activity dynamic between the first and last six months in TEP, what can we expect of 2024? For that we can take a peak at January's statistics and extrapolate...
Projections for 2024
The data from the first month of 2024 indicates a substantial increase in overall activity compared to the same period in 2023. With a total of 91 803 posts observed across all official Discords and the RMB, this represents a notable 60% surge from the estimated 55 000 posts in January 2023. A particularly striking shift is the change in the distribution of posts among various subcommunities. Urth, which accounted for approximately 41% of the total posts in January 2023, has experienced a significant decrease, now contributing only 11.3%. In contrast, Cafe + RMB and TEP Main have seen an increase in their share of posts, reflecting a notable shift in activity patterns.
Considering these trends, projections for 2024 suggest that Valsora is likely to regain a more active status compared to the second half of 2023. TEP Main is expected to maintain its positive activity trend established throughout 2023. On the other hand, Urth may either remain stagnant or experience a decline in activity over time, as evidenced by its reduced contribution in January 2024 compared to the same month the previous year.
Valentine's Day Article
By: Yukkira
"If I grew up here, I don't think I'd ever leave." - Anakin Skywalker, circa 32 BBY
Ah, Naboo, gem of the Chommell Sector. A peaceful planet by nature, Naboo is home to humans known as the Naboo, as well as a species of reptilian-like humanoids called the Gungan. Naboo's surface is full of vast oceans, pristine green plains, and expansive swamplands, with fauna as unassuming as the gentle Shaak of the endless plains, to the large and terrifying sea creatures that dwell deep beneath the waves of the oceans, near the planet's core.
During the tumultuous period known as The Clone Wars, the period was foreshadowed with an invasion by the Trade Federation leading an army of droids, which posed an existential threat to the planet. However, due to the timely intervention of two Jedi by the name of Obi Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn, as well as the stalwart leadership of recently elected 14-year-old Queen Padme Amidala, the Naboo with great assistance from the native Gungans, managed to repel the Trade Federation's invasion, ensuring Naboo's independence.
"It's beautiful."
"Yes, it absolutely is."
―Shara Bey and Leia Organa, about Naboo
During this year's Valentine's Day Events, Naboo was offered to the TEP community as one of several choices to take a would-be date on, and while during the initial few days, there was fierce competition from supporters of The Shire, by the end of day 4, it was clear, that Naboo was the place to be. It's honestly not too hard to see why.
Ladies and gentlemen, reptilians and insectoids, it is hard to understate the psychological impact vast green plains have on your psyche. Imagine you, with the people that you loved, surrounded by an endless ocean of green, sheltered under a clear blue sky. Breath that sweet morning air in. Take in the sounds of the birds singing their love songs into the pristine summer sunrise.
It's just you, your significant others, and the world. Let all your worries wash away into the light playful breeze that sweeps through your hair. Time seems to stop, as the world watches you, as you watch it in return. What incredible peace. What a beautiful life. How fortunate are you to be alive right now?
This Valentine's Day, let the region's choice of Naboo be a calm and gentle reminder that it's okay to disconnect once in a while. Find the time- no, MAKE the time to run away from live for a day. Go pack your bags, rent a cabin for a weekend on a distant shore, and just leave your worries at the door. Go take that badly-needed, much earned break, and live in the moment, for now.
It's no exaggeration to say that as the world got smaller, it got quicker. We've become so busy with trying to earn that degree, trying to earn that pay raise, trying to keep up with that next big thing, that the art of stopping, taking stock, and breathing, is becoming more and more rare. The largest reason however, is because we've forgotten potentially, as a society, just what disconnecting can do for us, not just mentally, but physically.
If you feel good, then you'll act good, so in essence, you'll be good.
Take care of yourselves, Kings, Queens, and Monarchs of TEP.
Until next year.
Yukki
Staffer - Event Lead
Ministry of Culture
Valentine's Day Poetry Contest
This year's Valentine's Day Poetry Contest had some incredible entries. As I was unable to pick which of them was my favorite, I have decided to feature all of them. To read them, click here.
The first poem up is styxprincess's "last dance." These are her thoughts on her inspiration for the piece:
The inspiration for “last dance” was that feeling of being invisible and immobile - feeling like everyone around you is moving faster than you are, and none of them can see (or care to see) that you’re falling behind. I also draw from the age-old idea that someone only dies once they’re truly forgotten, and tie it in as a self-justification for a fear of attachment that stems from being uncomfortable with actually moving forward, despite hating where you are.
“last dance” uses a lot of techniques that are typical of my poetry, such as significant use of the second person and the use of capitalization as a tool for emphasizing important words and themes and telling a visual story to supplement the lack of dynamic pacing and tone when read from the page. However, it is significantly less prescriptive than my other poems, instead putting the impetus on the reader and asking them to make a decision.
Other more specific acknowledgements go to my own personal failures with romance, the visual setting of “On My Own” from Les Miserables, the song “Prodigal” by David Wirsig, The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan, the fairy tale of the little match girl, Travis Kelce’s impending retirement, my best friend forever Ms. Sams, the liminal feeling of being all alone in an empty bar, and of course, Arthur Murray Dance Studio.
Yukki's thoughts:
I genuinely loved this piece. Not only could I relate to it but I love the unique style of poetry that this exposes readers to. While definitely free verse, there are many deliberate choices that I think create a wonderful eye into the writer's intent. Specifically, when styxprincess capitalizes the word "Broken," I can feel a pang of anguish well up in my breast. I feel a sorrow that I hope to never feel again in my current relationship. Most importantly, I believe that in this piece, not only is styxprincess's poem on-point for this Valentine's Day, but I believe she wishes to impart to all of us, a lesson in love lost and in that melancholy, a hope for new love to be found.
Next up is daneson's "The Universe." Rather than a traditional comment on their inspiration for the piece, they instead gave simply, these two pictures:
Yukki's thoughts:
Deceptively simple in both rhythm and scripture, daneson sits in awe of the universe that he is beholden to. However, they neglect to say whether or not such a universe is "the universe" that we are all part of. I think that this is intentional. Daneson could be alluding to the idea that their universe is their significant other, in which case, the universe of his description takes on a whole new meaning. He could be marveling at how beautiful they are, how intelligent they seem to be, at how incredible they are as a person. As a classic song once went, "How great thou art!" And that is what daneson's poem is. It is a simple piece with a picture as small as a photograph that one might keep in their wallet. But in that little photo is a whole universe which means the world to daneson, and hopefully, to their readers. Good job daneson. Thank you for sharing your words with us.
And now we have the meme submission of hyde's "5 horrible things you should never say to a girl this Valentine's Day." When asked about what their inspiration was for the piece, they said:
So, for inspiration, I kinda made it as a low-effort sh*tpost and as a mix of genuine advice for things you should never say to a girl if you are trying to get a date. I pulled many of the lines from it from quotes I either made up with real life friends or from terrible rizz lines I've read on the internet, such is why it is so, so ass.
Yukki's thoughts:
Well, considering that their username is kanye west and that this is a meme entry… everything checks out. Also, obligatory screaming about how they unironically used the slang term "rizz" in a sentence. Merlo, I plead the fifth.
Now we have "Grapes" by the rat-pope themself, interimname. When asked about their piece, they said:
I just happened to be thinking about doing something out of the ordinary, participating in my regions events. I saw the poetry contest and I thought I'd write something for it basically on impulse because of how many people were here on NationStates and lamenting "Singles Appreciation Day" so I thought I'd write something short and silly to give them a laugh, but then I realized the reason why I don't write poetry, and it basically all just went downhill from there.
Yukki's thoughts:
This is definitely less a poem and more a treatise on love. I personally don't mind and here's the funny thing, I actually appreciate this piece for a reason unlike any of the others. They mention the idea that Valentine's Day is not just for couples, but for singles as well. The meme idea of Valentine's Day also being called Single's Awareness Day is a meme rooted in the idea that self-love and couple-love are simply two sides of the same coin. Granted, that is most definitely not the true root of this rebranding attempt, but I digress.
I truly appreciate the fact that of all the entries that I've had the privilege of reading this year, that I am able to view a piece that gets to the root of why I volunteered to put on this year's festivities at the very last minute. I believe that as a purveyor of chronic geek memes, that the meme of a geek being unable to find another geek to love is rooted in the idea that self-appreciation leads to the coincidental success thereof relational love. While I give credence to the fact that styxprincess's piece touches on the idea of self-love as well, her piece is wrapped in thoughtful melancholy, while the rat-pope's piece knocks on hardwood.
Yukki's final thoughts:
I find myself reflecting here silently on the idea of what I could've done better to try and better appreciate the theme of self-love. Unable to find the willingness to admit that I am probably not the best expert thereon, I think that what can be ultimately surmised is that such an endeavor is a perpetual work-in-progress. Self-love is a love akin to perfection. As we are humble humans, and humans are incredibly fallible, I am confident in saying that we will always struggle to love ourselves in the best way possible. Much like how we struggle to accept how tomatoes are a fruit or that pineapples do not belong on pizza, the idea that you can simply love yourself in such a wholistic and satisfying way one morning by thinking the thought is a folly not worth entertaining. Instead, to love one's self, you must work hard, have a laugh, maybe cry a little, and ultimately confront the problem head-on.
This is what I've taken from these poems and I thank each and every writer for their thoughtful, sometimes funny, sometimes sad, always incredible pictures that they painted.
Until next year.
Expectations and Confusion: How NDay10 came to be
By: Altys
Leading up to the event, each faction had their own, different, expectations for the event. The field we ended up getting was by and large decided by them however true or false they were. So let's discuss them!
Initial Expectations
Inside KHAN (Kingly Heathens Asserting Neighborliness -- later Kingly Horsemen Asserting Neighborliness) awareness dawned early on regarding the non-reformation of the Potato Alliance. Notably, the addition of Icarus Moreaux and 9003, former Potato Generals and de facto leaders in September 2023, fueled expectations of a rerun from the previous edition without the Potato Alliance. KHAN then expected a fight to happen between them and the other major factions, where it would stand at a disadvantage.
Inside A.N.A.L (Anime Nations Against Liberals) Command there was the expectation for a re-run of the previous edition (September 2023). The faction and its allies would first team with KHAN and the Potato alliance to kill the Horsemen of the Apocalypse (HotA). Subsequently, the event was expected to transform into a clash between A.N.A.L & Allies versus KHAN & Potato Alliance, placing the former at a strategic disadvantage. Consequently, ANAL took proactive measures, extending invitations to more regions, crafting strategies, and training new members as puppetmasters.
Inside JEFF (Jellyfish Elite Fighting Force, Commaders shared a parallel outlook with A.N.A.L Command, envisioning a rerun of the alliance against HotA from the previous edition. The possibility of Potato and KHAN aligning was also considered, with no knowledge of Potato's dissolution. In preparation, JEFF expanded its ranks by inviting additional regions and working to transform existing members into puppetmasters.
Inside Starlight (Starlight Brigade) Command, there was the anticipation of a shifting battlefield while retaining similarities to the previous event. Foreseeing an alliance against HotA, identifying Potato as a definite adversary, and anticipating a potential conflict between A.N.A.L & KHAN were the expectations held.
Potato's Dissolution
The official dissolution of the Potato Alliance, declared by its Commanders four days before the even, dramatically altered the landscape from the previous edition. Major factions braced for a tougher confrontation against HotA, given the softening of captchas and the absence of Potato's numerical support. Moreover, the expectation emerged that, even if victorious against HotA, the ensuing landscape would not favor KHAN. This expectation materialized into a stark reality when JEFF started assimilating regions once aligned with the Potato Alliance.
With JEFF's rapid expansion, A.N.A.L and KHAN standing neck-and-neck in nation count, and HotA yet to appear on the board, some within A.N.A.L Command questioned the relevance of the previously agreed Mutual Defense Pact against a potential KHAN-Potato alliance. Doubts persisted until KHAN clarified that HotA was "not forming as a separate entity."
KHAN and HotA merging
The revelation shattered burgeoning hopes in A.N.A.L Command of clinching victory. The merger of KHAN and HotA mirrored the historic alliance between CARD and HotA in NDay6 of 2021, reaching a horrifying 16 000 nations. A.N.A.L, JEFF, Starlight, and later the Motokata Defense Coalition (MDC) swiftly devised strategies to overcome these overwhelming odds. At that time, their combined strength barely surpassed 5,000 (eventually reaching around 13 000), paling in comparison to HotA's 2021 peak. All factions unified under a single command structure aimed at enhanced coordination against KHAN, initially agreeing to defend each other's WA nations and to carry coordinate strikes.
However, unbeknownst to them, not the entirety of HotA would align with KHAN. Despite the potential for a "megafaction," the merger did not fully materialize, rendering the event more even than the coalition initially believed, if not actually favoring KHAN's adversaries.
The Eight Hours War
By: Altys
NDay began like any other, with factions stockpiling. Though a notable divergence unfolded as A.N.A.L intensified its nuclear production, nearly amassing a stockpile surpassing that of the two following factions combined within the first 20 minutes of the event. This stark departure from its historical emphasis on a defensive stance and shield production caught KHAN Command off guard, defying their expectations.
One the 30th minute, the storm unfurled. JEFF, accompanied by A.N.A.L's puppetmasters, honed in on KHAN. Targets multiplied, the earliest first strike to reach over 150k targets had it not been for JEFF's premature firing orders, 40 minutes into the event instead of 50. ANAL, in order to not weaken the attack, followed suit. Yet the initial salvo faltered due to sluggish pageloads and an untimely fire order limiting the firepower of A.N.A.L's puppetmasters. Undeterred, a second barrage ensued 45 minutes later—this time composed of Starlight, MDC, and A.N.A.L's non-puppetmasters. KHAN remained steadfast in defense, but teetered on the brink, succumbing to negative scores.
Around the two-hour mark, the tides shifted as KHAN retaliated, unleashing barrages upon JEFF. What unfolded was an hour of relentless back-and-forth, where JEFF fell into the negative as their aggressor rose to the podium.
As the clock struck the three-hour mark, a revelation dawned upon the anti-KHAN coalition. JEFF, caught in the ceaseless dance of attack and defense, showed signs of fatigue. Puppetmasters, doubling as commanders, strained to redirect their focus to shields and nukes, let alone oversee their troops. Internal morale also crumbled in tandem with the dwindling score and the never-ending deluge of enemy nukes. Adding to the chaos, the recent NDay updates saw the coalition's shared tech malfunctioning, diverting part of their nuke targeting to nations outside the KHAN fray. Worse, more often than not those targets were aimed at their own allies. A strategic pause became imperative to discuss how to pursue and fix the tech.
After 40 minutes of code fixing and deliberation, a paradigm shift unfolded. A.N.A.L's offensive juggernaut would no longer be divided, and JEFF, now firing alongside Starlight and Motokata, would gain time to regain focus and organization. The tech issues resolved, the crossfire among allies was also to cease. A.N.A.L spearheaded the renewed assault, this time puppetmasters and non-puppetmasters attacking in tandem. The faction targeted over 500k warheads against KHAN, ready to avenge their aquatic friends.
A tapestry of fire and counterfire unfolded over several hours, climaxing at the seven-hour mark as KHAN redirected its offensive onslaught towards A.N.A.L. The ensuing volley, nearly entirely shielded, gave way to several follow-ups with many more nukes piercing through the faction's shield dome. However, it proved too little, too late. With each barrage, KHAN absorbed more damage than its adversaries, its combat strength steadily waning. By the eighth hour, radiation levels breached 50%, signaling the coalition's triumph. The war had its winner.
Until the arms control treaty went into effect, the coalition would continue to feast upon the corpse of their enemy, inflicting a record 1 177 441 radiations. The final leaderboard would see A.N.A.L in first place with a total score of 722 734. In second place was the Starlight Brigade at a score of 258 323, also the only major faction to stay at 0 radiations (!). Finally in third place the Jellyfish Elite Fighting Force, back in the positives with a score of 250 241. Their enemy KHAN sat at -967 520 score.
by Quebecshire » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:19 am
Eastern Pacific News Service wrote:Our Foreign Affairs Council and Magisterium have been the hardest workers this month, as discussions with TNP reached their finale. We've made the difficult decision to repeal our nearly decade-old NEST [North-East Security Treaty] agreement with The North Pacific. Both sides have agreed irreconcilable differences exist, and TEP remained unsatisfied with TNP's lack of interest in repairing the relationship. TEP and TNP have had a rocky relationship for the better part of two years, and this week marked an unfortunate breaking point, where we felt things could continue at this pace no longer. Our FA Council has released a statement that delves further into the matter, however for those who may not see it, I figured it should be noted here also. TEP looks forward to furthering our existing friendships, as well as creating new friendships in the future. More can be read here.
Eastern Pacific News Service wrote: In response to the Europe raid, The Modern Gameplay Compact, now containing the regions Balder, The North Pacific, Europeia, and The League & Concord, strengthened sanctions on raider regions, including the explicit addition of the region Sparkalia to the sanctions, as well as the expansion of sanction conditions, which now applies such sanctions to Caer Sidi, Kantrias, Atlanticana, and Astoria, among others. Kantrias and Atlanticana have issued statements in response to these sanctions – Atlanticana used the phrase “irrelevant sanctions by a decaying compact”, whereas Kantrias described them as “frivolous and ineffectual”.
Benevolent Thomas wrote:I founded a defender organization out of my dislike of invaders, what invading represents, and my desire to see them suffer.
Pergamon wrote:I must say, you are truly what they deserve.
by Omnicontrol » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:30 am
Quebecshire wrote:Eastern Pacific News Service wrote:Our Foreign Affairs Council and Magisterium have been the hardest workers this month, as discussions with TNP reached their finale. We've made the difficult decision to repeal our nearly decade-old NEST [North-East Security Treaty] agreement with The North Pacific. Both sides have agreed irreconcilable differences exist, and TEP remained unsatisfied with TNP's lack of interest in repairing the relationship. TEP and TNP have had a rocky relationship for the better part of two years, and this week marked an unfortunate breaking point, where we felt things could continue at this pace no longer. Our FA Council has released a statement that delves further into the matter, however for those who may not see it, I figured it should be noted here also. TEP looks forward to furthering our existing friendships, as well as creating new friendships in the future. More can be read here.
Fascinating! I can imagine some of the irreconcilable differences. Perhaps TEP’s increased closeness and cross membership with Astoria, which made up substantial turnout in the Europe invasion? Maybe the appointment of the most prominent Astorian (also a BoM member) to your cabinet?
Now now, I’m sure TEP decided without undue foreign influence to repeal this treaty after Warzone Trinidad was invaded… oh, what’s that? The repeal was seconded to vote by the head of WZT’s military?
Such cosmopolitan rot. Put your eggs in their basket. It worked so well for TCB. You’ll find out just the same.Eastern Pacific News Service wrote: In response to the Europe raid, The Modern Gameplay Compact, now containing the regions Balder, The North Pacific, Europeia, and The League & Concord, strengthened sanctions on raider regions, including the explicit addition of the region Sparkalia to the sanctions, as well as the expansion of sanction conditions, which now applies such sanctions to Caer Sidi, Kantrias, Atlanticana, and Astoria, among others. Kantrias and Atlanticana have issued statements in response to these sanctions – Atlanticana used the phrase “irrelevant sanctions by a decaying compact”, whereas Kantrias described them as “frivolous and ineffectual”.
I suppose even in alleged decay we pose such an immediate threat to necessitate 100 oilers and a handful of queue stuffers.
One less Frontier for griefers and their sympathizers. That’s what matters. How we go there, less so.
by Bormiar » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:47 am
by Reventus Koth » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:50 am
Quebecshire wrote:Such cosmopolitan rot. Put your eggs in their basket. It worked so well for TCB. You’ll find out just the same.
Xanthal wrote:Only raiders can win in this war- a defender can keep them from winning one region, one update at a time, but there will always be the next region, the next update, and the next, forever.
by Quebecshire » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:53 am
Reventus Koth wrote:Quebecshire wrote:Such cosmopolitan rot. Put your eggs in their basket. It worked so well for TCB. You’ll find out just the same.
Where was this rhetoric when you were content to let Altys speak for all four of The League, Thaecia, Europeia, and Balder when it came time to end relations with TCB? I don't recall you thinking it was a sight of "cosmopolitan rot" at the time.
Benevolent Thomas wrote:I founded a defender organization out of my dislike of invaders, what invading represents, and my desire to see them suffer.
Pergamon wrote:I must say, you are truly what they deserve.
by The North Polish Union » Wed Mar 13, 2024 9:53 am
by Reventus Koth » Wed Mar 13, 2024 10:02 am
Quebecshire wrote:Reventus Koth wrote:Where was this rhetoric when you were content to let Altys speak for all four of The League, Thaecia, Europeia, and Balder when it came time to end relations with TCB? I don't recall you thinking it was a sight of "cosmopolitan rot" at the time.
That has nothing to do with cosmopolitanism. Altys was picked to be the messenger but every region still had equal input in what he was saying. That’s like saying Ghost is a cosmo in every MGC region because he posted our last statement.
You’re smarter than this, Koth.
Xanthal wrote:Only raiders can win in this war- a defender can keep them from winning one region, one update at a time, but there will always be the next region, the next update, and the next, forever.
by MadJack » Wed Mar 13, 2024 10:05 am
by New Westmore » Wed Mar 13, 2024 10:08 am
Quebecshire wrote:Eastern Pacific News Service wrote:Our Foreign Affairs Council and Magisterium have been the hardest workers this month, as discussions with TNP reached their finale. We've made the difficult decision to repeal our nearly decade-old NEST [North-East Security Treaty] agreement with The North Pacific. Both sides have agreed irreconcilable differences exist, and TEP remained unsatisfied with TNP's lack of interest in repairing the relationship. TEP and TNP have had a rocky relationship for the better part of two years, and this week marked an unfortunate breaking point, where we felt things could continue at this pace no longer. Our FA Council has released a statement that delves further into the matter, however for those who may not see it, I figured it should be noted here also. TEP looks forward to furthering our existing friendships, as well as creating new friendships in the future. More can be read here.
Fascinating! I can imagine some of the irreconcilable differences. Perhaps TEP’s increased closeness and cross membership with Astoria, which made up substantial turnout in the Europe invasion? Maybe the appointment of the most prominent Astorian (also a BoM member) to your cabinet?
Now now, I’m sure TEP decided without undue foreign influence to repeal this treaty after Warzone Trinidad was invaded… oh, what’s that? The repeal was seconded to vote by the head of WZT’s military?
Such cosmopolitan rot. Put your eggs in their basket. It worked so well for TCB. You’ll find out just the same.Eastern Pacific News Service wrote: In response to the Europe raid, The Modern Gameplay Compact, now containing the regions Balder, The North Pacific, Europeia, and The League & Concord, strengthened sanctions on raider regions, including the explicit addition of the region Sparkalia to the sanctions, as well as the expansion of sanction conditions, which now applies such sanctions to Caer Sidi, Kantrias, Atlanticana, and Astoria, among others. Kantrias and Atlanticana have issued statements in response to these sanctions – Atlanticana used the phrase “irrelevant sanctions by a decaying compact”, whereas Kantrias described them as “frivolous and ineffectual”.
I suppose even in alleged decay we pose such an immediate threat to necessitate 100 oilers and a handful of queue stuffers.
One less Frontier for griefers and their sympathizers. That’s what matters. How we go there, less so.
by The East Ambis » Wed Mar 13, 2024 10:12 am
Quebecshire wrote:oh, what’s that? The repeal was seconded to vote by the head of WZT’s military?
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