CAS Canon RP IC (CAS Region Only)

[Itasna]

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FRY IT UP! Chefs run out of Frying Oil shortly before Diplomatic Meeting

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An official meeting in Roma between the Federal Kingdom of Italy and the Confederacy was apparently soiled upon the serving of the meeting's main course, according to official sources from the State Department. Mr. Preston Thomas, the Confederate Ambassador to Italy, met Mrs Amelia Martaci, Italy's Minister to Amalia, to reportedly discuss economic and political relations between the Federal Kingdom and the Confederacy. The meeting had gone well, supposedly, until the main course of the pranzo was served. Mr. Thomas was reportedly discomforted, and stormed out of the meeting, after being presented a copy of Karl Marx's Communist Manifesto, deep fried and served with a side of butter, on a platter with utensils and napkin.

The Confederate Ambassador, after excusing himself from the meeting, has not contacted the Italian State Department since the date of the incident. However, staff at the State Department have reported that the main dish of the meeting's pranzo was "deep fried with care,", and how the culinary staff responsible for the meeting's meal were "disappointed and confused at Mr. Thomas' actions." Following the meeting's abrupt and crispy ending, La Polpetta reached out to Signora Martaci for any comments on the meeting or the golden crispy goodness served up on a silver platter, all in the name of the communist ambassador.

"Well, we just wanted to give Mr. Thomas a taste of home," argued Mrs. Amelia Martaci stated in a press conference following the meeting. "We had instructed the lead chef responsible for planning and preparing the meeting's pranzo to take inspiration from the cuisine and geopolitical affairs of the Confederacy, and this is what he interpreted our instructions as. As far as I see it, he deserves a promotion and a raise from the State Department for his creativity and ingenuity in the kitchen, regardless of the complaints raised by Mr. Thomas."

Mr. Thomas' staff had published an open letter to the Italian State Department, condemning the main course of the meal and citing the sacredness of the manifesto to the communist regime that has ruled the Confederacy for the majority of the 20th century. The Italian State Department, according to rumors, mailed the letter back, deep fried with a side of mayonnaise, in addition to a second deep fried copy of the Communist Manifesto. It is unclear whether or not the Confederate Ambassador's Office has sent an official response back to the Italian State Department, but it is quite clear it should come with a side of butter and a healthy heap of heart disease. Eat up, y'all!

La Polpetta Inc. is a content developer specializing in satirical content, and does not hold liability for content published under Amendment I, the Constitution of the Federal Kingdom of Italy.

[Of Zanganda and Zuno]

20th December 1990

Steven Zweigvig steps out from the house of Parliament in Orebro to a jubilant crowd, the snow is thick and bitterly cold, yet many people still went out to see this speech with their own eyes. he steps up to the microphone and clears his throat before he begins.

People of Norsia, in the snow we stand gathered here today, I have a big announcement to make to you all, two in fact, we come bearing good news for all Norsians. Firstly a few weeks ago, The Republic of Norsia and the Republic of Greenland, signed the treaty of Vik, which gave Norsia basing rights within Greenland's ports, with this treaty we grow closer to the Great Norsian vision, to unify all Norsians under a united banner, to create the prosperous republic for all Norsians, and become a shining example of democracy in not just Europe but the world, Norsia has been nominated for the Non-permanent seat in the UN security council, as a member of the council we shall set an example for the rest of the world. We are on the verge of a golden age, Starting from next year we shall enact the 5 year plan, to turn Norsia into a prosperous modern democracy whose citizens have some of the highest standard of living in the world, much work still needs to be done, but we shall start with improving our consumer economy sector, and our infrastructure. we shall make this state the northern star of democracy, not a major power, but powerful in its governance and exercises the freedoms of all within its borders. As it nears Christmas, we shall celebrate a great year for Norsia, and better yet to come in 1991. Thank you all for your attention and goodnight.

A crowd cheers him off, waving the Norsian flag left right and center, once He's inside the building he immediately declares that the national budget will be spent on what he said, Infrastructure and the Consumer market. In Steven's so called start of the 5 year plan. the start of a New age for Norsia.

OOC( the yearly points will be 5 into infrastructure and 4.95 into consumerism)

[Carah]

Dec. 23rd

Brazil Today Headline: Brazil signs a non-aggression pact with Chile

Today, Brazil has signed a non-aggression pact with the fairest nation of Chile, no state of war will exist between us and them. We shall hope the people of Chile sleep peacefully, for they are innocently people and shall not deserve to be harmed. This will be a contribution to our great plan for a great union in South America, to spread our fairest democracy to Chileans.

Pact of Non-Aggression

No state of war will exist between Chile and Brazil for 10 years.

Signed:
-2nd Brazilian Federative Republic
-Republic of Chile

[Great Eilean]

A Royal Christmas

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25th December, 1990
HMS Empress of Sagaria, off the Coast of Eileanic West Africa

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A Broadcast from Her Majesty, the Queen!

The television Screen fades from black onto Suffingham Palace, the Union Jack flying proudly from it as snow trickled down from the heavens above. Before it, at the Queen Gloriana II monument, the mass bands of the Royal Guard stood, conducted by Lieutenant Colonel William Amott, playing the Royal Anthem of Great Eilean, God Save the Queen. Before again, the screen faded to black, and then onto the Queen in her personal quarters on the HMS Empress of Sagaria. Behind her was an ornately decorated, though rather small Christmas tree, and at her feet laid one of her Labrador Retrievers, eyes heavy and dreaming of Sugar Plum Fairies... or ham bones from the Palace's kitchen.
The Queen looked up from her desk, her hands of course resting on her lap, and smiled motherly.
"Happy Christmas to you all, from my family to yours. To many, this is a time of good-tidings, of joy and merriment, as we worship the birth of Christ the Saviour. Celebrating with our families, our church and our communities, bringing us together as a whole." she said, looking to her desk with a small portrait of her father, and then back to the camera.
"At this time, some Thirty-Six years ago, I was carrying out my duties as Sovereign and undertaking my first Imperial Duties, without my father, King Edmund VIII. A horrifying prospect when I was younger, though now I feel as if I am more courageous. That is something all men should boast, a sense of courage. Not to charge headlong to combat, but to stand up and do what is right." she smiles, looking back down to her desk, and shuffling some paperwork around, now revealing a locket with a picture of her husband, the Prince-Consort.
"And that courage is something I wish to use, from here on till the end of my reign, be that tomorrow or thirty one years from now. I vow that I shall use my Royal Prerogative to combat autocracy, and hatred across this Empire. To see that this great Imperial Family be treated just as that, a family. That a man from Malaya should not be talked down to by a man from Hirmcester, or a woman from Oronia feel inferior to one from Saint Elizabeth. As we celebrate this Christmas season, we should treat each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of race or creed." she smiled, looking again to her desk.
"May God bless you all, and the Empire." she smiled, as the screen faded again to black for a brief moment, and then back to Her Majesty's Sign-off


"Thank Christ that's over, if I had to hear one more second of that I would have died of boredom..." Prince William snickered, sipping a glass of rum and Egg Nog.
"Oh please William, we both know I will predecease you from your incessant nagging and complaining" Gloriana laughed, organizing the speech papers and gently poking her dog awake, the old lab's snoring stopped and looked around confused, before it saw its master, its long black tail thumping against the cabin flooring.
"Come on, up-up now Brutus." she said, the fat dog quickly staggering to its paws, and wobbling over to the Duke of Elginsburg.
"So, any news from Leonia?" she asked William curiously while getting up. William grimaced slightly, before extending his arm, holding a dispatch from Williamsburgh.
"Your proclamation in Edmundstown did little to curry favour with the colonists, and seemingly has agitated them... However." William said, holding his breath as Gloriana opened the letter.
"The locals have come out three-fold..." She said, shocked.
"They're coming to celebrate the woman who is trying to liberate them." The Prince-Consort said, with a smirk.
"Well this is a rather shocking development. Of course, for the better of the Empire. Hopefully we shall see Apartheid broken in West Africa." the Queen smiled at her husband, as a sailor came in with a silver tray, which William quickly snatched the glass from, offering his wife a glass of Egg Nog.
"Happy Christmas, Cabbage." William smiled.

Suffingham Palace, Wyndham, Great Eilean

Within the Royal Palace, countless hundreds of nobles, well-to-dos and members of the Eileanic establishment had gathered, while in the absence of their Sovereign, a proper Christmas Party. With exception of Sir Thenpole, Peckingham and the Earl of Hornby, anyone who was anyone was in attendance, prepped and ready for the brandy, roast ham and merriment that was in store.
The Gallery was packed, with small tables full of Hors d'oeuvre, drinks and elaborate displays of ice carved in forms of the Duke of Wellingham, Father Christmas, Swans and other mystical characters or creatures. Laughter, chatter and gossip filled the room, before the Lord-Steward entered the room, and banged his ceremonial staff of office, silencing the room.
"His Royal Highness, Edmund Brunay-Bonbry, Prince of Prethow, Earl of Werwich!" the doors opened wide, revealing the Prince, and Heir-Apparent. The party seemed hushed now, or at least still shocked that His Highness had returned so early from Halstings when many expected his post as Admiral of the Atlantic Fleet would stand for several more months, until his mother returned from the tour.
"Ah, cousin Eddie. It's been ages!" a voice called out from the party-goers, and through the masses shoved a lean man, who's amber hair and beard were greying. Lord Alasdair Frederick Edmund Brunay-Leaton.
"Cousin Alasdair? I haven't seen you since Navy School!" the gloomy Prince of Prethow said, smiling, walking forth and extending his hand in a brotherly handshake to his cousin.
"No, no there was that time when we were bunkmates on the HMS Royal Sovereign back in '73." Lord Leaton smirked, shaking his cousins hand firmly.
"So, how are the estates? Any progress from... The Clearance?" Edmund asked, as a servant offered him a glass of brandy.
"Not necessarily, though I have opened up a coal mine near Hirmcester. It still doesn't really compensate for the loss of half the family titles however..." he muttered, taking a glass himself. "However, I have been getting into politics, and considering running for the seat of Hirmcester, after all its close to the old family estate, so it may pull off." Alasdair snorted.
"Well, here is hoping once I sit upon the throne, I can issue a Royal Pardon to your family and get you some of your lands and titles back, after all, is that not what family is for?" Edmund grinned.

Ottawa, State Dominion of Hocain

The Halls of Parliament are quiet, not out of defeat, fear or confusion, but respect. Every Member of Parliament, from White Forest in the North-West Territory, to Yarmouth in Nova Carinsia looked at their First Minister, Diana Devereux, sitting besides the First Minister of Great Eilean, a recovered Sit Walter Peckingham, recovered from his serious case of the flu from months ago, behind them was the Union Jack, and the old Red Ensign of Hocain before they capitalized on the Statute of Yerminster.
Before them, countless journalists, cameramen and television crew recorded this event, as Diana signed her name in a black leather-bound portfolio, before passing it to Peckingham, who signed it extravagantly, standing up quickly and turning to Diana who slowly stood up in turn.
"Eilean welcomes her daughter home, First Minister Devereux." Peckingham smiled, extending his hand to Diana who shook it sheepishly, the cameras snapping wildly at this historic event.

[Galasie]

23 décembre 1991

Happy Sunday to all our readers. We at Bouffon are committed to keeping you up-to-date on our ongoing legal battle with Le National over the title "Least Trusted Newspaper in Galasie." We hope to win this legal battle (that we started) and be able to proudly claim that we are once again least trust and splash it across our cover once again (even though no one asked us to remove it). Please turn to page 3 for more on how our plucky little paper will fight a titan of the news world for this coveted title.

BREAKING

Happy Sunday to all our readers. We at Bouffon wish you all the best in these coming holidays season. However, we wish to inform our readers of a growing issue from a certain country to our east. Yes, that is right, the Intermarium. We have credible reports that the entire government leadership of the nation is struggling with a rapidly spreading disease known as "baldness". This disease slowly but surely causes all the hair on the head to flee the head, never to return. Unconfirmed reports state that only men are currently victims of this disease, but scientists fear that it could make the leap to women. We believe the most recent victim of this disease is our dear friend, President Felix Nowak who credible sources from a certain bureau, claim has begun wearing a wig to hide his deformity. Defense Minister Lukashenko is believed to be patient zero.

We feel that this illness may be why President Nowak has begun signing his letter as Jakub Kowalski, the long dead(?) founder of the union. Meaning that this disease centering on the head, may go all the way to the top! However, our Editor-in-Chief has admonished us for not considering the equally likely possibility that Sonacist Super Science has successfully revived the deceased leader and slowly easing him back into the reigns of government. Potentially in some power sharing agreement where the presidents switch days in command, like the consuls of Rome.

Considering these distressing turn of events, we ask that our religious readers keep the Intermarian leadership in their prayers and that our non-religious leaders observe a moment of silence for the nation, its leaders and its leader's hair. Perhaps Père Noël will bring them a solution to their problems.

[Carah]

Dec. 24th 1990

President Marcos sat on his chair, knowing Christmas was on the horizon, he has heard that there was going to be a Christmas celebration in downtown Brasília, and he was invited, along with his Vice-President, his ambassador, André Henriques, and his family, along with the citizens of Brasília, and even other people outside of Brasília. President Marcos thought to himself; Please, lord, let this be a normal celebration...

He was getting ready to go to bed for Christmas, and the celebration in downtown Brasília, if it wasn’t obvious, Brazil was in a conflict a few months ago, and even today, Brazil remained divided, and Marcos saw it, all of the action that happened a few months ago.

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Dec. 25th 1990

Today is the day, the day of the celebration in Brasília, President Marcos and his family and acquaintances were quite a bit nervous about it due to the hard divide Brazil is in, but nonetheless, they decided to go anyway. Marcos went into his limbo along with his family, and that drove to downtown from the Fortaleza.

At downtown Brasília...

President Marcos had arrived to the celebration along with his family, and he also saw André Henriques come to the celebration. Together, they went to the city center, with them, there was a large crowd, for the celebration, and they all started to sing some Christmas folk songs. President Marcos and André Henriques didn’t sing along with the crowd. They only watched as the worries have been present in their minds. Then, the time came where President Marcos had to come up for a presidential speech for Christmas, Marcos gone up to the podium, and said his speech.

Hello everyone, and Happy Christmas, I am here to say that even if this very country was harshly divided, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be jolly for Christmas, we shall be here, as a nation, for our celebration of Christmas, as it is the birth of Christ.

The crowed clapped in applause, and then, when the speech was over, Republican supporters came by and yelled that Marcos “was a liar” and wanted to divide the nation even more, and that the nation was only ruined because of President Marcos, then, the Republican supporters tried to topple the Christmas tree, people’s reactions were very bold, some even clashed with the Republican supporters to prevent them from toppling the Christmas tree, and it all turned into a big riot.

André Henriques said to President Marcos; “We have to leave, it is not safe here.” Marcos agreed and followed him and Marcos’ family into a limo, which drove off once the police arrived.

Later today, President Marcos announced over the TV from the Fortaleza that if things are still going to be violent between the people of Brasília or things become extreme, the military will be called in and martial law will be declared.

That day, even if it was the jolliest of days, became a day of a riot.

[The Neo Russ Republic]

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31 of December, 1990 CE

>Paul II: "This year we have seen countries fall and rebirth, be it for the better or for worse and while some hope that it doesn't happen to Serkaria it is foolish to think this way as everything changes eventually even if it takes awhile. In my opinion it is in the best interests of Serkaria to start reforming as soon as possible even if it seems to do nothing at first or be counterintuitive because it is better to adapt to your new surroundings than to make them fit you. And hopefully once they are finished Serkaria can move into a new brighter age unhindered by the past and traditions while still bringing some of them with it. Now that I've finished what I wanted to say I want to wish all the people of Serkaria a happy new year and to accomplish what you have set out to do." The camera switches to a clocktower as it slowly ticking off and as it reaches zero the national anthem of Serkaria starts playing and fireworks start going off all over the country, first in Vladivostok, then Krasnoyarsk and finally in Borchungrad. A new year has come and hopefully a new time for opportunity, success, change and reform.

Fireworks in Borchungrad on New Years

[Dakya]

27th of December 1990

Somewhere in the Amazon

A group of soldiers got lost in the thick forest during their mission due to unforeseen heavy rain.

16:24
The squad is unable to contact their superiors. Squad Leader, Corporal Antonio Sandoval orders his man to continue their exploration mission.

17:47
The squad reaches an elevated position where they attempt to reestablish communications. Their attempt failed, the mission resumes.

18:12
Corporal Antonio Sandoval decides that a break is necessary. The men continue in their effort to contact superiors

18:21
The Group is attacked by an anaconda, shots are fired. No casualties and no damaged equipment. The snake lays dead 2 m away from the Corporal. They resume their movement.

20:30
It's getting darker and darker. One of the soldiers trips on the roots of a tree, twisting his ankle. Antonio orders his men to cease their movement. They will camp on that location.

21:00
Meal is ready and the wounded soldier receives medical help. Contact with superiors is still unavailable. They will spend their night there.

23:23
The men are woken up by a scream. It came from the SE. Antonio decides that it's better to investigate in the morning

28th of December 1990

02:42
The same scream is heard, from the same direction. Antonio takes 2 of his man and goes to investigate.

02:54
They find blood stains and blade marks on the trees. Not willing to risk it, he takes his men back to the camp.

03:21
They hear the same scream but louder and from the NE. It seems to be closer. 8/13 men keep watch, taking a circular position around the camp.

07:00
Antonio and his man resume go to investigate the place from earlier. The blood and the marks are still there. A body is found nearby, it seems to be a local tribal. His body is full of bite marks and an arrow is stuck to his arm. They are unable to identify his tribe. Shortly after a plane flies over their heads and they finally contact their superiors. They are ordered to maintain their position, another team will be sent to safely escort them and another one will be sent to investigate their discovery.

12:35
They finally leave the forest and reach their base. They are given the day to recover.

13:00
The news reach Simon. "This might be a sign of a conflict between the local tribes. We must pay tribe in the area a visit and ask them if they know anything. By law, they are citizens of the Union. Inner fighting is unacceptable. Their integration into society must be accelerated and we must always keep an eye on them." said the Marshall.

Other News
- Preparations for New Year are ready
- The Military Budget will be increased for 1991
- The Eternal Flame in Bogota will be increased in size and brightness until Trotsky's Black Day.

[Carah]

Dec. 30th 1990

The riots have calmed down and stopped, there was no martial law, and everything was peaceful in Brasília. The mayor of Brasília decides that this year, there was going to be a New Year’s Celebration. Fireworks have been prepared for New Year’s, and all the while, President Marcos had took a rest for a bit.

The New Year was coming, and all conditions were good.

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Dec. 31st 1990 11:59 PM Brasília Standard

It was a dark night, and people went near the Brasília town center for the fireworks show, and now everything counted down.

10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1

The clock hit 12 AM, and it was now the new year.

Everyone shouted out “HAPPY NEW YEAR!” While the fireworks were being burst up in the sky.

Everyone was cheerful that it was the New Year.

The president then gave a speech on the podium;

“Happy new year to all Brazilians, it had been quite a year for Brazil, with political unrest and civil war dividing the nation, hopefully, in 1991, everything in Brazil will be a calm year.”

Then Auld Lang Syne played in the background, it was a good celebration for Brazil, and no one had done anything to provoke unrest, it was a miracle celebration for Brazil.

[Yottabota]

Sudden Snow Storm Halts Traffic In Pretoria, South Afirca SR

Johannesburg, South Africa SR

The lock of the imported Italian car rang with a satisfying kachunk as its driver left the vehicle in the packed parking lot of the stadium. He scanned around, checking for threats as he made his way down to the entrance of the arena. Markus always hated large crowds, it reminded him too much of touring in Windhoek. It was ironic, the country he not so long ago was invading was now his home, and more importantly home to his favorite football team. FC Cape Town was leading in the African Premier League, and currently, they were having a match against their main league rival Central City United. The UASR did a few things right in its annexation of the former South African Union, and one of them was ensuring that the layman would never really notice much had really changed. Sure his taxes would go up but so would his pay, sure his boss would get sacked but he would have much less oversite over his work. He would notice that he now has much more time to be with his family and friends, and less time forced to work to sustain himself. But most importantly, he would still be able to see his favorite football team play their usual matches just as it was before the regime changed. In the words of Henry Amon, "if you let a man watch his sports, go to church and love his wife, the revolution will seem like another Tuesday for him." Markus received the ticket from the Ticketmaster, who gave him a slight salute when he noticed the red cross pinned onto his chest. As he entered the hallway to his sat, Markus stopped briefly and looked up at the skyline to watch an incredibly rare sight play out.

"Look mama! It's snowing!" A small child called out as a gentle flurry of snow began to fall down. The last time South Africa experienced snow was in 81', it was a rare occurrence but not unheard of; however, this was Markus' first-ever snow. He held a hand out, removing the leather gloves, and allowing a few snowflakes to touch his palm, then watched each one melted into tiny puddles in his hand. Markus chuckled at the sight and then instantly yelped as he slipped on the snow powdered concrete floor, as his flat black dress shoes gave him no traction. "Uahaha!" The child laughed, to the immediate scolding by their parent who urgently walked over to his aid.

"I'm terribly sorry for my son!" The mother brushed her hair aside and offered him a hand up, which he graciously took and dusted the bits of snow off of his duster. "Oh my uh... Thank you for your service." He sighed a little and nodded towards her, gently rubbing the red cross. "Um... My name is Julia." She held out her hand towards him, and for a brief moment, he felt a slight warmth in his chest from the look on her face. He gulped and extended his hand to meet hers.

"Markus."

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Anatanarivo, Malagasy People’s Council Zone, Madagascar SR

Max laughed as he slammed his mug of beer into Francine's as they drank to an incredibly lively pub scene, which was in an equal state of festivity as they watched the live video feed from Kroptokina. They celebrated, for, after months of deliberating, the three councils have made an agreement to allow the Merina to integrate into the MPC while ensuring that the Betsimisaraka tribe maintains its autonomy. The rich local beer hit Max's lips in waves as he poured it down his mouth and sighed a deep breath of relief, only gasp as Francine wrapped her arms around his torso and brought him in for a tight hug.

"AAAAH I TOLD YA YOUS COULD DO IT!" She drunkenly giggled and rested her face on his chest. He laughed, slamming down the rest of his drink as he hugged her back, almost to her surprise. The two sat in the stillness of the moment together, the cheers from the bar grew ever so silent, and slowly the only thing they could hear was the sound of the heart of the others through their shirts. "I... Max I uh..." She pulled away slightly so that her eyes could meet his, and Max could feel himself drowning in the deep green abyss of her eyes. He placed a finger on her lip, silencing the concern that clouded her mind. The sound returned and they could hear the pub patrons start the count down. With each second passing by the hour, Max had never felt more sure about anything in his life. 5... 4... 3... 2...

"One." He muttered, bringing her in for a kiss as the fireworks from the TV erupted along with the crowd. As the New Year was christened with old feelings renewed.

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Premier's Estate, Kropotkina

Amelia sipped her tea as the fireworks fired off around the city, along with the occasional staccato of gunfire from over-enthusiastic citizens expressing their right to bear arms. She placed her teacup down and walked towards the balcony of the estate, opening the windows to allow the crisp air of the MidAtlantic to billow past her. The sky was ablaze with dazzling lights and extravagant explosions, so much so that it was practically daylight outside. She sighed a happy sigh of relief, knowing that the next decade would bring its hardships but assured in herself that everything might work out in the end. This year had its turmoils and scandals, heavens know with all the noise about South Africa, but the Union stood strong amongst it all. Armstrong, with pride in her heart, moved away from the balcony and sat back down at her office table as she summoned the Premier's Media Representative to bring a camera crew to her office for a New Years' message.

The feed intros with the UASR Official Seal, with the national anthem playing in the background. The intro cuts as Premier Amelia Armstrong is shown at her desk, hands neatly folded in front of her with the balcony doors wide open, as to allow the audience to see the light show behind her.

"Good night, my fellow Africans. From the office of the Premier, I wish you all a happy New Year. This year has been one of the greatest in the Union's history, but also its most tragic. We have our brave men and women in our armed forces to thank for the swiftness in defeating Apartheid in South Africa. We honor the lives lost in the Boer War. We welcome our new South African, Botswanan, Namibian, Basotho, and Emswati Comrades into our Union, thus ushering in a new age to the once-great Central African Union, as we became the new Union of African Syndicalist Republics... We came under attack internationally, as capitalists played their games to undermine our great Union. We lost our once great leader, Xavier Leke. But despite all the hardships, we stand victorious. Africa has never been more unified in our history, and the subjugation our peoples have endured for centuries has come to an end.

My only wish is that we come into this new year with open arms and hearts to the suffering of those around the world. More so, I wish that we may love our neighbors with the same love we share with our kin. I call on my fellow Christians to join arms with our Muslim comrades, and I call on our Muslim comrades to do the same. I may be a catholic, but this land we live on is for all of us, no matter your creed, nationality, gender, sex, or race...With that, I leave you all to your festivities. Please remember to drink responsibly, and don't get behind the wheel if you have drunk or smoked this fine night of ours. Cheers comrades, for the glory of our Syndicalist Union."

Amelia raises her teacup and takes a sip as the feed fades back to the official seal.

Fireworks Display In Cape Town, South Africa SR

[Itasna]

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Un Anno Nuovo

Milano, Lombardia

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Un Anno Nuovo

The snow flurries gently drifted down from the night sky, the accompanying silence washing away worry and sorry. The city had already had several centimeters of snow on the ground from the days prior, turning the heart of Italy’s economic machine into a winter wonderland. Yet, this new wave of snow felt, unique, different. As midnight rapidly approached, the new snowfall almost felt like a new beginning for the next year, a blank canvas to be painted over, and the artist being the people of the Italian nation. This new year would defined by the achievements and setbacks, the accomplishments and failures of Italy and her peoples. It would be another year in which progress would be made, or be lost. And, most importantly, a year of remembrance. The year 1991 would mark the 130th anniversary of the Italian nation being formed, after nearly a millennium and a half of disunification and bloodshed, a product of the collapse of the mighty Romans, whose almighty Empire once ruled the world from their humble peninsula on the Mediterranean.

The deafening silence of the snowfall was abruptly interrupted by the Duomo di Milano at the heart of the city, the clanging of it’s mighty bells rocking the air and disturbing the once peaceful atmosphere. The Duomo, officially dedicated to the Santa Maria Nascente, had long been at the heart of the city’s affairs, from the day the first bricks were laid in it’s foundations in 1386, to the final details on the tallest spires being completed in the mid 1960s. It was fitting for the Cathedral to ring in the new year, for it stands as the largest Cathedral in Italy, the second largest in Europe, and the third largest in the world. It’s bells clanged again, shaking the earth on which the city stood, and being loud enough to be heard across the world. The bells clanged again, and again, and again, ringing a total of twelve times. Midnight had come and gone, and with it went the old year. Now, a new year awaited, with whatever it may bring, whether that may be fortune or failure.

[Terra Frima]

January 10th, 1991
New year a new step

It was within the Oval Office of the white house that sat Robert Lacey the President of Amailia. He sat at the great desk that many of the past leaders of Amailia worked, but the work being done today was not heavy or of great importance to the survival of Amailia, but it was still important. In front of him sat bill soon to be law 42 § 12101, otherwise known as the Amailian’s with Disabilities act. Lacey sat there a number of cameras across from him with reporters doing what they do taking pictures and making notes for this signing. Lacey himself had his vice-president next to him along with an aid. Further around him was a number of citizens who themselves had their own disabilities. Once most things were in order Lacey took a pen off the desk and after saying a few words on how this would continue to bring Amailia forwards in the path of justice and equal opportunity for all he signed the bill now bring it into law. Shaking a number of hands around him, this legislation would be another step in the way for Amailia’s quest for civil rights.

[Tarazed]

Daramonty City kicked off the New Years celebrations on Sutherland

Daramonty City, South-East Sutherland, Tarazed

Director Damion White looked around the table as the Tarazedian Quorum began to finalise its last meeting of the year. This year had been a trying time for all of them, but Damion reckoned that they'd held up well in the face of adversity. It wasn't every year that the communist bloc made such outrageous acts of agression towards their neighbours, at least he prayed that wasn't the new norm going forward. In front of him sat an Act of Quorum which would soon expand the Tarazedian embargoes against the UASR, after all it would be out of sorts to end the year without sending that jumped up regime a late Christmas present. The initial embargoes had been bumpy, with the LMU drawing first blood from the LFN, and the Commonwealth following soon after the Eileanians agreed that such measures were necessary. The Sub-Director signed off on her section of the Act after recieving nods of assent from several Quorum members, she then passed it to the Director. Damion twirled his pen in his hands, how did it come to this? Why did the Communists insist on escalation?. He shook his head slightly. He'd leave those questions for the historians and philosophers. RIght now they needed pushback action. He signed the Act.

---

Sorong City, Guinea, Tarazed

The rain was relentless. It hadn't stopped all week. The humidity didn't help either. At least the beer was tasteful. At least he hoped this was beer.

"Is it always this bad?" the man asked, grimacing at how out of place his accent sounded here, "The weather?"

The bartender laughed, "Da rain natim stops xiya old mang."

The man furrowed his brow, the Tarazedian language was infuriating to understand. Why couldn't they speak Exsean like every other colony? Fortunately the bartender seemed to pick up on the fact the man had missed nearly every word spoken.

"The rain never stops around here, old man," he repeated in a slow charaicature of what the man knew was the Daramonty accent, "'s been storm season all year. Weather mang said 's like this 'til next month."

Willem De Villier shook his head and silently returned to his drink. How had it come to this?

---

The feed opens with the TASERED official seal, the seal of the Tarazedian Government, and with the national anthem playing in the background. The intro fades to show Tarazedian astronaut Albert Montgomery aboard the Imperial Star space station. Behind him is the view from the stations cupola observation windows, with a wash of rich colours behind him as the Earth rolls past.

"G'day, my fellow Tarazedians. From all of us aboard the Imperial Star, I wish you all a happy New Year. This year has been testing politically, but triumphant scientifically. We have seen the fall of nations and the rise of space stations. We have seen civil wars and natural disasters abroad. And through it all, the Federation has remained on the side of reason and ensured that needless agression does not go unpunished. We ensured a peaceful transfer of power in Brazil, and lessened the bloodshed in the South African War. We are also ensuring the peaceful reunification of Indonesia through ongoing negotiations.

My only personal wish for all of you watching is that we come into this new year with open minds. To never stop asking questions. Personally, my life has been a single, constant realization that I haven't been cynical enough. The Imperial Star is Tarazed's first step on its return to space exploration since the Moon Race, my crewmates and I are excited for the challenges this will bring and are ready to face this new frontier together with the rest of TASERED. Good night Tarazed, have a safe night down there! Cheers."

Albert lets a bubble of wine squeeze from an unseen pouch, letting it float in front of his face for a moment before drinking it as the feed fades back to the TASERED official seal and the seal of the Tarazedian Government.

Fireworks Display In New Wyndham, New Ceanland

[The Neo Russ Republic]

---

8th of January, 1991 CE

>The debate about the safety and legality of GMO's has arisen once again after the international organisation "Greenpeace" broke into the Vladivostok GMO Safety Testing Facility and killed all the GM wheat that was going through the last field trials. They claim to have done this to stop them from spreading even though they were sterile plants, many GMO scientists are in outrage at such hypocritical statements due to Greenpeace also previously saying that not enough safety testing is done on GMOs to know if they are harmful to humans or not. Thankfully the facilities in Borchungrad and Moscow have been spared allowing to gather data from the tests to draw a final conclusion on the safety of GM crops for a future vote that will be held to decided the legal status of GMOs.

The Serkarian ministry of agriculture building

[Carah]

January 9th 1991

Brazil Today Headline: Tension rising high in the Government

With both Syndicalists and Sonacists’ split getting more and more tense, and the Republican Party’s rise in power; things are now getting more tense in the Government. President Marcos’ attempts for a more peaceful Brazil are now falling apart as clashes in the streets of Brasília between Syndicalists and Sonacists are rising, and in some cases, with Brazilian Republicans as well. Worries for a Second Civil War are more rampant in the country, unless President Marcos acts quickly.

Civil War is very likely...

[The Neo Russ Republic]

---

12th of January, 1991 CE

>The forth and seemingly final deal has come into affect between Serkaria and Armenia, the two are now part of a military alliance called the Eurasian Defence Organisation(EDO). The goal of this organisation seems to provide military support for those countries that can't afford it or simply can't defend themselves against a larger foe. Armenia is the first country, of hopefully many, to enter the organisation there are many countries in Asia and that could use some help in enforcing their borders and sovereignty against outside threats. Several politician in Armenia yet again have protested entering the organisation as it could lead to loss of sovereignty, but their opinions were overshadowed by the referendum for entering EDO that was conducted nation wide and returned with a 75% in favour of entering the organisation, 10% unsure and 15% against.

Armenian troops in the parade for Armenia entering the Eurasian Defence Organisation

90 influence points are spent

[The Neo Russ Republic]

---

13th of January, 1991 CE

>Paul II has visited the site of burial of all Serkarian monarchs, the Volkhov river in Velikiy Novgorod. His mother Olga Andreyevna or more widely know as empress Olga II was given a Varangian's funeral just like all honourable members of the Serkarian government and notable individuals. It is often rumoured that coming to the river on the day someone was buried there will allow you to seem their ghost often wandering the banks and the surrounding area so it has become a tradition for all monarch to visit the river year round for their first, fifth and tenth year of rule to receive advise and guidance from the old and wise past's peoples.

The river Volkhov in Velikiy Novgorod

[Galasie]

January 15, 1991
Veraveux, Galasie

"Big news for fans of classic literature and comic books today. Comic book company Hurlement and the Marguerite Films Co. have announced that they have concluded talks about a series of joint films on some of Hurlement's most famous titles. For our non-comic watchers, Hurlement is a company that makes comic adventures based on older works of literature. So far, three movies have been confirmed to be entering production later this year with release dates in the coming future.

"First and oldest of the three is Captain Niemand and the Smjunten. Staring a mysterious man who only identifies himself as Captain Outis Niemand, he is the creator and captain of the Smjunten, a fantastical ship that can fly, sail and dive below the water. First written by Hugues Chêne in 1870. The Captain's origin is unknown (but hints of Sallish origin are clear) with a particular grudge against the Acuisiains. His appearances both in his original books and comics are centered around hidden civilizations and seemingly fantastical events that are ultimately revealed to be achievements of "science" - but often rely on some form of mysterious or poorly understood phenomenon. His ship is the most famous example, apparently built while he was searching for Atlantis, trapped in the destroyed city below the ocean, he built the ship to escape using their advanced metals and an engine fueled entirely by harnessing the power of the sun, wind, water and lightening to propel itself.

"Second is Couer d'acier, the tragic story of Charles Lahire, a man who has most of his organs replaced by metal parts, becoming the world's first cyborg. Created almost a century ago by Léon Saint-Clair in his novel, Couer d'acier: homme machine and remained popular through the 1910s and 1920s before switching to comic format. Couer d'acier fought against dictators, mad scientists and aliens before adding common criminals and costumed villains to his retinue of foes in the comics. Popular foes of his include Ceinture Cramoisie, a masked reactionary obsessed with overthrowing the Galasian government and returning the country to an absolute monarchy; Doktor Jakub Mackiewicz, a deranged Intermarian scientist obbessed with mixing human and animal DNA to create the perfect creations; and Les Rembre, a strange alien race attempting to conquer the human race through their shape-shifting powers.

"Last, but certainly not least is Félix Corbeau, the phantom gentlemen thief written by Émile Pierre in the first decade of the xxth century. Corbeau is a master thief who pulls of impossible thefts and fights worse villains. The current comic version of Corbeau is actually centered around a different Félix Corbeau, operating in modern times and claiming to be the grandson of the previous thief and operating with a crew of other phantom thief. The younger Corbeau is likely recognizable to many of our fans as the star of a number of spin-offs including movies and television series. While not confirmed, the movie seems to be centered around the elder Corbeau.

"We wait to see if these will be the hits that Hurlement and Marguerite are hoping for, or if they will fall short like other attempts to create comic movies have been."

[The Neo Russ Republic]

---

16th of January, 1991 CE

>Recently some historians have stumbled across some interesting archives on Ivan IV, specifically a clue alluding to the possible location of his personal library. The location of Ivan IV library is one of the greatest mysteries in Serkarian history up there with who were Rurik and Borchun. The parchment seems to be a scribble made by Ivan IV himself in his late years talking about book transportations from the Kremlin to a crossed out location on the 4th of November, 1943. Many archaeologists doubt the authenticity of this discovery, but a group of archaeologists lead by the the Serkarian government has already been assembled to investigate its validity and whether it's possible to read the unintelligible word.

The great library of Moscow, the room where the piece of parchment was found

[Galasie]

January 16, 1991
Veraveux, Galasie

Tensions are heating up in Galasian political life as the parties begin ramping up for the upcoming 1991 elections. Party leaders have begun making more public appearance and at risk candidates are jockeying for screen time as they prepare to face powerful opponents. The Moderate Group seems to be on the verge of civil war after a motion to expel former vice-president Jérémy Fabron was defeated by a narrow margin. Now there is talk of the liberal members of the group splitting off and forming their own party. It is a hard far for a party that just a few months ago seemed to be on the cusp of becoming the next governing party.

The National Alliance has begun calling for more spending on the military and blaming the Blanquer government of being soft on the Acuisian military dictatorship. Something echoed by the Galasian Social Movement and surprisingly by the Radicals and IWA. The National Alliance has seen its projected pick-ups increase as they bitterly fight the Moderate Group for center-right voters.

The Radicals and Ecologicals are both expected to pick up seats, likely at the expense of the Republicans who are still projected to only have minor losses compared to their early project of 100+ loses. The Radicals and IWA, and Galasian Social Movement have seen some minor conflicts between their members early this week as everyone braces for potential violence.

Most notable of all of this is the Republican Party and Prime Minister Blanquer, which have remained largely silent. Their leadership has largely focused on extolling the virtues of their leadership in this past decade and the lack of conflict their years in leadership have seen.

Experts predict Acuisia will factor heavily into the elections, but plenty of time remains before the campaign season actually begins.

[The Neo Russ Republic]

---

of January, 1991 CE

>Today a curious occasion has happened, Serkaria has come into diplomatic relations with the nation of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan like Armenia was released from Serkaria as part of the treaty after WW1(Great War) and ever since didn't have any relations other than a few arms deals, but this has now changed as Serkaria and Azerbaijan have signed a non-aggression pact. Several people like Meserdin Popov have brought up that this is similar to what happened with Armenia and questioned the intentions of the government truly coming from wanting to keep peace in the area or just wanting to annex them as he sees it. But to much of his relief the government of Azerbaijan is currently only looking to declare a non-aggression pact and so far haven't considered joining the EDO or declaring any other treaties as far as it's known.

Serkarian governor palace built during the time of imperial rule

19 influence points are spent

[Galasie]

January 18, 1991
Sallande, Galasie

Sallande begins gearing up for elections as the Patriots' party faces serious competition for the first time in years from both the right in the form of the Sallish Unionist Party and the left with the new Sallish Radical Party. Will these twin pressures be enough to finally end the Patriots' Party's domination of Sallish politics? For our younger readers, the last time the Patriots' Party was out of government was 1968.

Wouter Adriaansen, professor of political science at Amstad University dismissed that as a likely outcome. The professor noted that even at worst, the party is projected to lose 30 seats, which would leave them short of a majority, but still in the best position to form a new government, compared to the "extremely unlikely" Unionist-Radical Alliance.

Minister-President Thersia Smits has also remained tight lipped about rumors of her retirement soon after the election with unconfirmed sources alleging that she will retire sometime after the election with projections of it being near the end of the year if a coalition government is necessary. The likeliest contenders to replace her are General Affairs Minister Lodewijk de Haven and Economic Minister Hanna Dircks.

The Sallish Unionist Party is projected to only make minor gains in the coming election. In a recent poll, many voters still hold their support of the old war against them and feel the party would not be representing Sallish interests when dealing with the national government in Veraveux. However, newly elected Unionist leader, Stijn Lourens is hopeful that the party will be able to shed this image. Lourens stated earlier this year "I think people are tired of the [Patriots' Party's] domination of politics. I think the SUP has really shown itself as interested in being a party of the future." The thirty-three years old leader's age has been a constant source of concern from some, but Lourens thinks it is an asset to showing the Unionists are interested in a new path forward, unlike the Patriots' Party, which he says "is stuck in the past."

The real star of the election is the Sallish Radical Party, a left-wing party that first formed in 1988 as the Sallish associate to the Galasian Society of the Radicals. It is projected to win up to 20 seats in the coming election, potentially becoming a kingmaker in a hung parliament. Party founder and leader, Lenn van Norden considers them an alternative to the Patriots' Party for Sallanders "who want a real change for Sallande and eventually unity for all of us." A key goal of the party is reunification with Acuisian Sallande, something that even the Patriots' Party abandoned as a policy platform years ago, but has come back into the discussion given the changes to the Acuisian government. Critics paint the party as Galasian stooges, for their pro-centralizing platform, and as warmongers.

[Galasie]

January 21, 1991
Veraveux, Galasie

This morning, it was announced that National Assembly's Defence Committee will begin examining the armed forces funding bill of 1991. Notable is the earmarks proposed by the bill, sponsored by Defense Minister Henri Aliette. The bill proposed a new aircraft carrier of the same class as the Cardinal Gizeux, a new air wing for the air force and funding for an armored division for the army. The bill is the biggest funding increase to the Galasian armed forces since the Republican government took power in 1981.

President of the Committee Jean Lachaud (PR), has stated that a special committee will not be formed to examine the bill, rather the standing committee as a whole will conduct the hearings to examine the bill. Proceedings are scheduled to begin Wednesday. Committee President Lachaud said that there is broad support for the proposed bill in the committee and hopes to have it approved and sent to the main body before the month is out. Critics warn against such a swift approval process and that the proposed expansions should be examined more closely before being signed off on. The most notable critic is one of the committee's vice-president's Bastien Vergès (PE) has stated that he will seek to delay the process until his concerns about cost and need for these expansions. Committee President Lachaud did not specifically address the concerns raised by Committee Vice-President Vergès, but did state that he was taking all concerns into account and would do his best to satisfy them before the bill was referred onward. "We are a democracy, voicing concern and debating until we reach a consensus is important." Lachaud said, "however, I also understand that sometimes we must act." Committee President Lachaud did not respond to questions if he would refer this inspite of Ecological protest.

The only other parties to express issue with the bill were the IWA, which stated it will oppose the "unnecessary spending meant to only appease the weapon makers." and the Radicals who released statement once again calling for the Blanquer government to cease granting conscription deferments and rapidly increase the size of the army. It said the deferment increase was meant to be a temporary measure to give the new Republican government time to focus to other internal matters and restore public confidence in the government and military. The statement argued that those goals have been met and the deferments should cease immediately. The Prime Minister's Office, The Defense Ministry and Committee President Lachaud's office have all declined to comment.

[Councils of America]

Jan 28th 1991
Neo Orleans, Louisiana

President Kennedy stared at the grey box on his desk. He noticed the space the box took up, for it also came with a grey rectangle in front of it. He rubbed his forehead, he had spent the past hour with a specifically chosen teacher so he could learn how to use this machine properly and efficiently. He had used computers before of course, but never as often as to what was happening now. All over government agencies were deeming personal computers necessary for all staff. It was still hard for him to shake the notion of computers being big machines ran by a team. But now times were different. And who was President Kennedy to stand in the path of technology and progress.

Knock, Knock

"Governor Murray, Mr. President," a female clerk said as she opened the door.

For once the President was happy to see his campaign rival and promptly turned to his teacher, "Thank you, that will be all for now."

Robert Murray entered the room as the computer teacher left the room, the President sighed, "you use these things?"

Robert stopped with a bit puzzled expression as he looked at the box, "No, Texcom is made in Texas. Lousiana's government purchases our computers from firms within our state. I use Mighty Miss computers."

"What?" the President replied, "I meant in general, but it doesn't matter. Are you here about the press conference."

"Yes, but more importantly," Robert began, "Here's the report on computer security. Overall we are woefully unprepared. Only the lack of real investment in computer 'viruses' as they are called and our lack of using them until now has kept the danger low."

Kennedy took the documents and looked around for where to place them on his desk before deciding the top of the grey box would do.

"What can be done about it?" the President replied.

"Each agency, more like each building will need a dedicated team to manage computers within that building and of course an overarching team to make sure all government agency's systems are able to work together." Robert answered.

"I'll have to think about it, now onto the press conference."

[Galasie]

January 30, 1991
Veraveux, Galasie

Today the National Assembly's Defense Committee heard testimony from military leaders about the proposed military funding. The bill is expected to easily pass the committee and be refered to the main body of the National Assembly sometime next month. However, that did not mean that the testimony today was not active. The Ecological members of the board, led by Committee Vice-President Bastien Vergès (PE) spent much of the meeting questioning the assembled experts on the necessity of the bill.

The most notable and highest ranking member of the experts was Defense Chief Paul Kœnig in his second appearance before the committee on the bill. Chief Kœnig seemed to a particular target for those who were skeptical of the bill. The general was questioned for a full two hours before being dismissive by Committee President Jean Lachaud (PR). Both sides of the debate noted that Chief Kœnig seemed to be well informed on the facts and very professional, a common feature of his frequent appearances before the committee. Committee VP Vergès noted that a lot of his concerns had been satisfied, but that he still had concerns about the bill and would like more time to question the Defense Chief about specific aspects, especially about the naval component and room for additional units being raised. While the general was seen as extremely honest and open about the reasons behind the military expansion and in answering most of the questions posed to him, a few eyebrows were raised at his evasive answers to ending the current deferment policy. When asked for comment, Kœnig steadfastly declined to speak on it, calling it a policy matter that was left to the government to decide.

Some commentators and supporters of the bill have criticized Committee President Lachaud for taking what was seen as a hands-off policy toward the questioning. Largely allowing the skeptics on the committee to conduct the questioning to the degree that they wanted. However, some observers noted that at least a few of the skeptics seemed sated by their intensive questioning. Tomorrow, Navy Chief Jean-André Laurent and Air Force Chief David Ducorron are expected to testify about the proposed additions to their forces. While Chief Ducorron's testimony is expected to pass without much incident, Chief Laurent's testimony seems set to be very contentious. The bill currently earmarks funding for an Aircraft Carrier, which if passed and completed, would bring Galasie up to three carriers, something that the Navy has long argued was necessary for Galasian strategic interests. However, even supporters of the bill have been rather concerned about the cost associated with financing a carrier. Tomorrow's testimony is expected to be the last before the committee finally votes on the bill.