The Albali Republic and Puppets Q&A

[Apiary One]

OOC: Where did you first get inspiration to create your nation? For me, it was the book 'Nineteen Eighty-Four' by George Orwell; I based my political ideology -- the Honeybee Doctrine -- on Orwell's English Socialism (IngSoc). My nation's name was also inspired by the book; I chose Apiary One as an homage to Airstrip One -- the name for Great Britain in Orwell's world -- and honeybees, whose social structure my nation is modeled after.

[Fallen Albali]

OOC: Where did you first get inspiration to create your nation? For me, it was the book 'Nineteen Eighty-Four' by George Orwell; I based my political ideology -- the Honeybee Doctrine -- on Orwell's English Socialism (IngSoc). My nation's name was also inspired by the book; I chose Apiary One as an homage to Airstrip One -- the name for Great Britain in Orwell's world -- and honeybees, whose social structure my nation is modeled after.

It's hard to point to one inspiration tbh
I certainly wasn't that inspired when I made the first 'draft' of Albali in 2015, I just thought it'd be pretty nifty to make an FT nation. Eventually I started putting more actual effort into my new Albali after the old version CTEd, and here we are. I suppose first and foremost I was inspired by people who put actual effort in and I didn't want to be left behind. But influences from sci-fi series from all over the place have managed to sneak in. Halo, Mass Effect, etc.

[Kyoki Chudoku]

“A few questions for Amaki in particular, of Fallen Albali. I’m just going to get straight to the point.

1. Why do you believe democratic governance to be optimal in times of peace? This is a legitimate question. I find such ideologies prone to massive internal division that makes resisting even lesser crises a major problem, and they struggle to appoint the necessary authority when a grave issue does emerge.I assume you have a different view, which is why I’m asking.

2. The threat that you’ve had to deal with is a dangerous one, no doubt. Do you believe that their ambitions of conquest extend beyond the reality they’re confined to for now?

3. If you are to endure, if all you have achieved is to remain and survive and somehow overcome all that threatens you...what do you intend to do?”

-Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality

[Valentine Z]

Chief Aviator Gwen Tracer Hepburn “Fate of Existence and the Omniverse” Ellen Trixie Caitlin Foxworthy Avril Verlene Eveline Celinda Sammy Doris T-Rev Oxton Arielle Lindall Leslie Vitesse Allison: Ahh, hello there! I am not sure if this has been asked before and if it is, please do pardon me! I am just curious on these sort of things! Not that I am planning to rob them, mind you; hey, I am a time-traveler! I can just see them if I want to! Hehe, anyway, the questions that the Valentians want to ask are more historical!

- What is the most valuable artifact that your nation has as of now? What is its significance, and why?
- Is there an artifact that is destroyed or damaged in the dumbest way possible? You know, like how someone clumsily fell onto a valuable vase. Or elbowing a painting...

[Bloodshade]

"Hello again! You know, I could definitely call you but it's more fun this way for some reason! I get to do my job cultivating relations with foreign polities and I also get to talk to my little red sweetheart!

Now onto being serious for a second, a question's been lingering around my mind. In the near future and in the far future? What are your goals for Roulons and for yourself? I'm just curious. You've been through so much so I just want to know what your sights are set on.

Oh! A more lighthearted question compared to my first one, what are some of the quirkiest talents you've got that no one truly appreciates even though I would? Everyone knows you've got an undeniable knack for soldiering and commanding but what's under that surface that you'd like to take pride in?"

-Countess Ambrosia Von Carstein

---

"I've got a question for you, Ms Valbe. Now I know thinking about the past is generally futile but my curiosity has gotten the better of me. What would you do if you weren't in the military? What other path for life would you prefer to travel on if the life of a warrior was shut off?

I've got one question that's been burning in my mind that I must ask! What do you like wearing on an outing, Ms Valbe? Now I don't mean work, I mean fun! A party, a gathering, a time to be merry and happy! How do you want to present yourself?

Maybe I should ask this first, do you like being the centre of attention at a party or would you rather be minding your own business?"

- Kali Fiore

[Fallen Albali]

“A few questions for Amaki in particular, of Fallen Albali. I’m just going to get straight to the point.

1. Why do you believe democratic governance to be optimal in times of peace? This is a legitimate question. I find such ideologies prone to massive internal division that makes resisting even lesser crises a major problem, and they struggle to appoint the necessary authority when a grave issue does emerge.I assume you have a different view, which is why I’m asking.

2. The threat that you’ve had to deal with is a dangerous one, no doubt. Do you believe that their ambitions of conquest extend beyond the reality they’re confined to for now?

3. If you are to endure, if all you have achieved is to remain and survive and somehow overcome all that threatens you...what do you intend to do?”

-Aozora Chiyumi, Supreme Overlady of All Reality

Q1: "Democracy gives the opportunity for change and incompetence isn't rewarded. A leader elected has to be on the ball at all times lest he be torn apart by the people and the other parties. Albalian democracy demands excellence. I don't think it's suitable for a wartime government because decisions take too long to make where every moment matters. The things that make democracy good in peacetime like huge bureaucracy is just a weakness in times of war."

Q2: "No. Of course I don't. The Prethoryn ruled the galaxy once before their own corruption and the rising up of new species proved to be their undoing. They fled to the hidden end of the Milky Way, and now they're back. They just want the galaxy. Any talk of separate realities is silly."

Q3: "I don't know. I don't imagine we'll overcome our challenges in my lifetime. That's for my successors to think about."
- Amaki

[Fallen Albali]

Chief Aviator Gwen Tracer Hepburn “Fate of Existence and the Omniverse” Ellen Trixie Caitlin Foxworthy Avril Verlene Eveline Celinda Sammy Doris T-Rev Oxton Arielle Lindall Leslie Vitesse Allison: Ahh, hello there! I am not sure if this has been asked before and if it is, please do pardon me! I am just curious on these sort of things! Not that I am planning to rob them, mind you; hey, I am a time-traveler! I can just see them if I want to! Hehe, anyway, the questions that the Valentians want to ask are more historical!

- What is the most valuable artifact that your nation has as of now? What is its significance, and why?
- Is there an artifact that is destroyed or damaged in the dumbest way possible? You know, like how someone clumsily fell onto a valuable vase. Or elbowing a painting...

Q1: "Hmm... good question. I would say it's a toss-up between two things: the first is the original draft of the Treaty of Albali - the document that the Aquariian Empire and the Ausar Confederation both signed to bring life to the Albalian Empire. That document is probably the single most important of its kind in the entire galaxy. It is the physical manifestation of co-operation between species who both want a better future for their children; I would say it worked brilliantly. The other are the crown jewels of King Almoki I - the first king of the Aquariians. He forged a legacy that lasted six thousand years, and without him... well, the galaxy would be very different indeed."

Q2: "I'm sure there are things that have been broken... but I can't recall anything of immense value being broken. We're far too careful for that. Off the top of my head, I can remember that someone tripped while holding one of the more... valuable pieces by a famous artist. Ruined the painting... I feel more bad for the poor man who tripped, though."
- Astela

[Ignis States]

"I'm not going to beat around the bush with my question. I have things I've been curious about since day 1 of knowing what Albali was. What was Albalian civilization like before the era of space travel, specifically in the pre-industrial period? You can either talk about only one species' history or multiple. Either's fine by me."
-Mark Draksesa.

[Fallen Albali]

"Hello again! You know, I could definitely call you but it's more fun this way for some reason! I get to do my job cultivating relations with foreign polities and I also get to talk to my little red sweetheart!

Now onto being serious for a second, a question's been lingering around my mind. In the near future and in the far future? What are your goals for Roulons and for yourself? I'm just curious. You've been through so much so I just want to know what your sights are set on.

Oh! A more lighthearted question compared to my first one, what are some of the quirkiest talents you've got that no one truly appreciates even though I would? Everyone knows you've got an undeniable knack for soldiering and commanding but what's under that surface that you'd like to take pride in?"

-Countess Ambrosia Von Carstein

---

"I've got a question for you, Ms Valbe. Now I know thinking about the past is generally futile but my curiosity has gotten the better of me. What would you do if you weren't in the military? What other path for life would you prefer to travel on if the life of a warrior was shut off?

I've got one question that's been burning in my mind that I must ask! What do you like wearing on an outing, Ms Valbe? Now I don't mean work? I mean fun. A party, a gathering, a time to be merry and happy! How do you want to present yourself?

Maybe I should ask this first, do you like being the centre of attention at a party or would you rather be minding your own business?"

- Kali Fiore

"Oh! Hello again, Ambie... I, ah, didn't expect to see you. It is a pleasant surprise though..."

Q1: "Hrm. For Roulons my goal is to get as strong of a base to reclaim what is ours; like I said before, I doubt we'll get to that point in my lifetime, but forming a good start will be critical. Ideally I want to unite the entire planet under Roulon hegemony within the decade. As for myself... I don't know. I just want to give Amara the best life I can. I know it will be hard... but ... I have to. Everything I do, I do for her."

Q2: "Well... *ahem*... as you know I'm good with hair. Braiding all of your hair is a masterwork of mine I have to admit. And also cooking. It's just... I don't like bragging, but I think cooking is one of my best talents."
- Amaki

---

Q1: "That's a very good question. Truthfully... I don't know. The Army has been my life since I was 11 and I can't imagine being anywhere else. I guess maybe I would have gone into engineering. Or maybe any other field that involves a lot of hands-on work. I love getting down in the dirt and working as hard as I can."

Q2: "I love wearing suits! A well-made, well-fitted suit is beyond comfortable. Dresses are fine, but... I don't know, they're just not the same. The exact thing I wear depends on the occasion, so if it's a bit more informal I'll just wear a waiscoat and a shirt with some jeans. So in general I like looking professional but comfortable and friendly... not the intimidating sort of professional."

Q3: "While I don't seek out all of the attention at a party, I don't really mind if it turns out that way. I'm just not the type to sit back in the shadows and be idle. The goal for me is to go in there, be nice, and make as many connections as I can. Of course, parties these days are less fun and more about politics. It's not as enjoyable, but there are still some opportunities for making friends. Allies, at the very least."
- Astela

[Silver Commonwealth]

Those are rather OOC questions, so...

What are some of the tropes/cliches seen in nations on this site which you can't stand or dislike?

Also, what has been the happiest event which has happened to you IRL this year?

(Sorry, those weren't that much effort questions, I know)

[Fallen Albali]

"I'm not going to beat around the bush with my question. I have things I've been curious about since day 1 of knowing what Albali was. What was Albalian civilization like before the era of space travel, specifically in the pre-industrial period? You can either talk about only one species' history or multiple. Either's fine by me."
-Mark Draksesa.

"Pre-industrial Albalians... hm. Well, the Aquariian civilisation was the most complicated; they've always to build on land during the pre-industrial era, as one would assume. Being on a world that's mostly water, land was at a premium. The population of the Aquariians was really quite tiny compared to other species at the same time period. Because of that, large conflict was rare; even back then, they saw how tenuous their position and population was. There was no persecution for the same reason, which I think make the Aquariians - and the Ausar - very unique. Nations didn't exist in the same way we think of them today... I suppose this era of Aquariian history can be summed up by saying that the few Aquariians there were needed to work together as much as possible to make their situation work."
- Astela

[Fallen Albali]

Those are rather OOC questions, so...

What are some of the tropes/cliches seen in nations on this site which you can't stand or dislike?

Also, what has been the happiest event which has happened to you IRL this year?

(Sorry, those weren't that much effort questions, I know)

Q1: I've never really given that much thought, to be honest. I judge every nation individually - sometimes they work well and sometimes they don't. That's not necessarily the fault of any particular tropes, but of the writing ability of the person behind it. For example some people can make an alternative history Germany work well, others... others really can't.
I will say though, one thing I dislike is being edgy for the sake of being edgy. Give it some meaning or it just comes off as crass and is frankly really boring.

Q2: That's a good question. I do know the answer to said question, but it's personal and I don't wanna share it. Something to do with my mother though.

Also these questions are fine, at least I don't have to spend half an hour thinking of an answer for these ones.

[Zitravgrad]

"Why do your dog and you talk shit about me, tho? ;_;"

"No, not that. I mean... I have a question about Albalian people's preference on robotic ""people"", whether they have a positive opinion towards sentient robots at all. And if they do, do they prefer robots to be lifelike replications of their own race(s) or simply like traditional robots?"
Dr. Feodora Alexandrovna Miroslavskaya
First Lady of Zitravgrad, mathematician, computer scientist and military technologist

[Fallen Albali]

"Why do your dog and you talk shit about me, tho? ;_;"

"No, not that. I mean... I have a question about Albalian people's preference on robotic ""people"", whether they have a positive opinion towards sentient robots at all. And if they do, do they prefer robots to be lifelike replications of their own race(s) or simply like traditional robots?"
Dr. Feodora Alexandrovna Miroslavskaya
First Lady of Zitravgrad, mathematician, computer scientist and military technologist

"Great question! Albali does have sentient AIs that can be transferred into robotic bodies, and for the most part the people accept them as citizens much like their flesh and blood comrades. In general, we prefer them to look much like us with an Aquariian, Ausari, or Canicien appearance because it brings a better sense of familiarity. However, people like these are not common. Manufacturing the AI and the bodies is extremely expensive, and outside of extremely niche roles, there's no reason to be... ehm... creating, them. a VI in a basic robotic body can do almost any job and they're millions of times cheaper. I'd say sentient AI that are free to live life are a gift to be cherished, much like any other living being."
- Astela

[Koinonia Poleis]

Fallalbali: “Hello Amaki and Lahja! It is I, the humble Lycophon of Thebes. You are a busy woman, so I will skip the pleasantries and get right into the questions.

For starters, when do you think your people will be ready for Democracy again? I do mean this in the best of ways, I am not calling the citizenry stupid or anything. Is there even a set goal in mind or are you just waiting for the galaxy to be good enough? Alternatively, how exactly are you going to deal with the fact an entire generation has grown up only knowing your rule? Do you already have programs in place that teach the children of the nation how democracy works or are you just going to cross your fingers and hope for the best? Or is it just some third thing?

This question is a bit less accusative and political, but I noticed your daughter -absolute darling, by the way- has tried to make it so ‘Ice Cream’ is freely distributed to the children. I have two questions in relation to this. Has this ‘floofocrat’ ever given you any suggestions you legitimately considered? Also, what are your favorite flavors of Ice Cream? Both of you, by the way.

Lastly, this question is for Lahja. Do your teeth replace themselves like regular sharks as well? If so, what is it like? If not, then I am sorry for stereotyping your species.”
Lycophon of Thebes

[Fallen Albali]

Fallalbali: “Hello Amaki and Lahja! It is I, the humble Lycophon of Thebes. You are a busy woman, so I will skip the pleasantries and get right into the questions.

For starters, when do you think your people will be ready for Democracy again? I do mean this in the best of ways, I am not calling the citizenry stupid or anything. Is there even a set goal in mind or are you just waiting for the galaxy to be good enough? Alternatively, how exactly are you going to deal with the fact an entire generation has grown up only knowing your rule? Do you already have programs in place that teach the children of the nation how democracy works or are you just going to cross your fingers and hope for the best? Or is it just some third thing?

This question is a bit less accusative and political, but I noticed your daughter -absolute darling, by the way- has tried to make it so ‘Ice Cream’ is freely distributed to the children. I have two questions in relation to this. Has this ‘floofocrat’ ever given you any suggestions you legitimately considered? Also, what are your favorite flavors of Ice Cream? Both of you, by the way.

Lastly, this question is for Lahja. Do your teeth replace themselves like regular sharks as well? If so, what is it like? If not, then I am sorry for stereotyping your species.”
Lycophon of Thebes

"Wow... interesting! I never thought ancient civilisations would be-" Lahja began before Amaki raised a hand for her to settle down.
"Let us just answer Lycophon's questions." Amaki glanced down at the tablet on her desk. "I have other things to do after this, and I don't have all the time in the world."
Lahja nodded. "Right."

Amaki cleared her throat. "To answer your first question, well... to be frank, I don't know when they'll be ready. I want a firm democratic system in place within the next two decades or so, but that will depend on factors both inside and outside of Roulons. Two decades seems like a long time, and quite honestly, it is. But we have more important things to worry about - industry, expansion... we are still adapting to the situation in which we find ourselves. To answer the second part of your question, I have made sure children are educated on democracy - all of its divine strengths and its ugly flaws. I think the people will decide when they are ready, not myself."
"The Army agrees." Lahja swooped in to answer the moment Amaki had finished speaking. "They are an extension of our society, and they know that this dictatorship system won't last forever. If Amaki or myself tries... well, we both trust the Army will stand with the people over anyone else."

"Ah, Amara..." Amaki smiled fondly. "I love her suggestions for new policies, but... well, most of the time I don't entertain them. I can't just put a policy in place just because my daughter asks - as much as I love her, she isn't any more important in our society than anyone else, and giving her such power is wrong. Of course, she has had some good suggestions like the one about petting animals in the parks - it's my favourite! - but it needs to be checked to make sure it's actually feasible." Amaki raised her brow. "My favourite ice cream? Hm. Probably strawberry and vanilla. It's something you can't go wrong with."
"Mint chocolate chip." Lahja grinned. "Slightly less boring than strawberry and vanilla. But Amaki is boring." she just laughed while Amaki stared at her.

Amaki snickered at the final question, but she was kind enough not to say anything.
Meanwhile, Lahja just grinned - her sharp teeth were on full display. "Wouldn't you like to know?" her voice came out kind of like a hiss - the illusion was broken when she started to laugh as well. "No, no... us Aquariians evolved away from that a very long time ago. Having all of those teeth in our smaller mouths was more of a liability. It helps that we no longer eat whales. Our teeth are stronger though, so generally they don't need replacing."

[Valentine Z]

Head Secretary Jamie Izabella Maxie Clara “The Elegant and Magnificent Mathematician” Pernella Ellie Natie Lexie Marie Valerie Ruby Æstriðr Fni. Clementine Millicent Lizbeth Alex Cass Eirian: Hello there, my lovelies! Hm hm, ahh, I hope you do not mind that, it is simply my informal way of talking to friends such as yourselves! Anyway, on to my question, because I am rather curious.

- For Ms. Amaki, What would you say is the most difficult time in your life as a military personnel? I understand that life in the military can be rather tiresome and also sometimes downright terrifying, so I understand if you are unwilling to comment on this one.

- What is the genre of music that you listen to with your daughter? With two of you being close, I reckon that you also listened to songs together. What kind of music bonds you and your daughter more than anything else?

- This question is specifically aimed at your little one, Amara. Amara, it is such a delightful pleasure to meet you, and I assume that you have attended school just like the many children in Albali. I would like to ask - what is your favorite subject, and perhaps the least favorite? Do you have any co-curriculum activities or clubs that you are a part of? I used to be in Sharpshooters Club, it was delightful!

I would like to thank each and every one of you for giving me the opportunity here, and I wish you all the best! This is Head Sect. Jamie, signing off. ♥

[Bloodshade]

"Hey hey hey! If it isn't the loveliest ladies in the galaxy, how have you two been? I'm joking, that's not my question. I have a habit of being overly worried. Besides, I wouldn't waste your time like that!

Now you two, I need to ask. What sensation brings you feelings of happiness or just positive feelings in general? The feeling of sunshine beating down on your skin and illuminating the world around you perhaps? A spoonful of your favorite food entering your mouth, with the smell wafting through your noses? Lying down on a soft bed and letting all your worries drift away with your fleeting consciousness?

On another note, if you two ever have to step down and usher in a new democratic form of governance in Roulons, have you ever thought about what you'll do next? You know, will you stick around as prominent civil servants? Even if you don't run things like before, it would be a shame for Roulons to lose two experienced professionals. Perhaps even run as a candidate in this theoretical, new government? Mayhaps you just want to settle down and focus on little Amara's future? I know I would for little Alaria…although she doesn't seem to need my help these days now that she's all grown up and become more confident but that's enough from me.

I guess to sign off, I have one last question, how are you two holding up these days? Like, generally speaking when it comes to your workload and Roulon's political scene? I know it's not easy being in your positions but if there's any way my dumb self can brighten your days even by a miniscule amount, I will drag my lazy ass over there and you can bet your bottom dollar on that!"

- Countess Ambrosia von Carstein