Imperial Chronicles (News and Random Events)

[Acarionne]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

BREAKING NEWS: WE HAVE AN HEIR!

If there ever was a reason to throw in a party, then tonight is the one. The spokesperson for the Winter Palace has officially confirmed that Her Most August Majesty the Vasilessa has given birth to a male heir to the Taraskovyan Imperial throne at the Vigvar Central Military Hospital. The mother and the child are in good health and condition and the father is reported to be elated.

The news that the Vasilessa was with child was first released months ago and since then has not stopped empassionating the Taraskovyan public. Her Most August Majesty was escorted earlier in the day to the hospital that has traditionally served as the Ruling Dynasty's medical establishment and is also known to be the medical service responsible for the Elder Leib Guard.

General euphoria

The birth of the heir was already welcomed by the representatives of all major political movements. The Conservatives speak of an important event that solidifies the power of the Taraskovyan throne. The Christian Patriots have welcomed the birth of a heir that mixes Taraskovyan and Byzantine origins and that the throne is guaranteed against defaulting to Her Imperial Highness the Grand Duchess Vethara, whose candidacy is viewed with suspicion not only by the Christian Patriots, but also by some in the Loyalist Coalition.

The noble Houses have already been lining up to offer their most sincere congratulations. The members of the Shakhovskoy-Karetsah have also offered their congratulations to their House Leader. The Grand Duchess Vethara has issued a separate statement congratulating her brother the Vasilevs on the occasion and stating her full readiness to be a good aunt to the Vasilevitch.

The news was also welcomed in the Vasilessa's homeland of Pantocratoria, with congratulations pouring in from the Imperial family and members of the nobility and political establishment.

Alexander Basil Constantine

According to the Winter Palace, the Most August couple had already chosen a name for the child long before his birth. The boy shall thus be named Alexander, in honour of the Grand Duke Alexander the Great, a major figure in Taraskovyan history who reasserted Grand Ducal control over stray feudal lords and defeated the political power of the Church of the Seven Deities. He is reverred as a saint by the Taraskovyan Orthodox Church.

Whilst the Taraskovyan tradition does not include middle names, in honour of the heir's Pantocratorian roots through his mother the Vasilessa, the middle names of Basil and Constantine were chosen. Basil is to honour Her Most August Majesty's father, the Prince Basil, whilst Constantine is a traditional middle name for the members of the Pantocratorian Imperial family.

His Most August Highness the Vasilevitch Alexander of all Taraskovya shall be baptised into the Christian faith by the Taraskovyan Church and shall become an Orthodox faithful.

Sorry it's so late...

From the Desk of His Royal Highness the Tsesarevich of Acarionne:

Vorontsov Palace
Stronta, Province of the Umbréa, Acarionne,
Taraskovyan Empire

I, on behalf of my father and the entire House Anacreonov, wish to congratulate the Vasilevs Mikhail and the Vasilessa Elena of all Taraskovya. My father and mother, the Tsar Nicholas the Fourth and Tsarina Tatiana Baranova, send their best wishes to Their Most August Majesties in raising the little Vasilevitch. May the young Alexander bring joy and happiness to the House Shakhovskoy-Karetsah.
The news of the birth of an heir to the Taraskovyan throne has been received with rejoice and praise from throughout the Tsardom, and the same can be said of the response from the Acaronn Royal Family.

I also wish to send my and the Tsesarevna Nathalie's congratulations to the Most August couple. May the Vasilevs and his wife live in the uttermost happiness with their newborn son, and may he live a long, healthy, and prosperous life.

Truthfully yours,



Nicholas Nikolaevich
Tsesarevich and Grand Duke of Acarionne

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

BREAKING NEWS: SENATE ACCEPTS MECHANOID SAPIENCY AMENDMENTS!

By 186 votes in favour, 56 against and 58 abstentions, the Imperial Senate has accepted the package of amendments to Imperial Order establishing the recognition under specific criteria of machine sapiency and the recognition of human rights to sapient machines within the Taraskovyan Empire.

The package includes an amendment to the Imperial Constitution specifically recognizing the concept of machine sapiency, all while referring to Imperial Statutes for purposes of definition and application. The Imperial Statute on the Sapience of Artificial Intelligences foresees a series of criteria for the recognition to an AI of sapiency.

The Imperial Duma had officially approved the series of reforms a week ago. There were fears that the NPCA might force amendments to the packages in the Senate, which would mean the need for a period of consultations between the Chambers on the exact texts to adopt. This would have forestalled the implementation of the reforms.


NPCA strategy fails

The NPCA's strategy of splitting the package up into separate motions and forcing amendments to each did not go through. According to analysts, the NPCA aimed at using procedural reglementations to forestall the implementation of the reforms by forcing the two legislative chambers of the Veche into consultations over the texts.


Split in the Loyalist Ranks

The machine sapiency reform marked the first violent rift in the Loyalist Coalition. The Handalarian Loyalist Alliance (Handalarian Lordships) has officially stated that it was withdrawing from the Coalition and would pass into unalligned opposition. The Homeland Party (New Crimea) chose to abstain from the voting, as did many more representatives from the Conservative Party itself that were unconvinced by either the need to enact the machine sapiency reforms or the need to reject them.

25 Conservative Senators voted against the reforms. According to political commentators, these Senators represent the more right wing faction of the Conservative Party, that was considerably reinforced following the defection of many voters from the NPCA to the Conservatives. Splitting the hardliner vote had a boomerang effect on the Conservatives and returned to hit them with a new problem: what to do with a reinvigorated hardline faction within its ranks? Few deem that there shall be a split in the Conservative ranks only because of the machine sapiency reforms, but commentators already look forward to an impassionated legislative mandate where the Conservative Party looks set to suffer internal dissent amongst its wings.

What comes out of this internal power struggle is unclear. Shall the hardliners of the Conservatives merge with the NPCA, reinvigorating the reactionary far right and creating a more rational political force that shall be able to more efficiently compete for votes? Or shall it just end with the 'dissenting' Senators and Deputies (for one must not forget that a week before some Conservative Deputies also voted against the proposed reforms) being reprimanded within the Party ranks?

How will the Conservative Party restore discipline within its ranks? Shall and should it take example upon its lesser counterparts that each presented a single stance, whether it be in favour, abstaining or rejecting the reforms? These are the questions that remain to be asked.

For now, what is sure is that the machine sapiency package shall go for a final proofreading review to the Emperor's Council to verify its conformity and compliance with Imperial Order.


Referendum?

The NPCA has not admitted defeat and has begun a campaign for a popular referendum on the issue. Once approved by the Emperor's Council, the new reforms shall enter into force upon the expiration of the deadline for the submitting of a referendum request following the collection of the required amount of signatures from Imperial citizens dwelling in Realms.

The Machine Sapiency Saga is, thus, set to last for a little bit longer still. If the NPCA manages to raise the required amount of signatures, a referendum shall be launched. Right now, it is apparent that such a number shall indeed be collected.

[Tarasovka]

From the Random News Media:

Machine Sapiency Reform to go to Polls

The constitutional reform on machine sapiency shall go to the polls, the Imperial Chancellery has announced. The move follows challenges through a popular initiative launched by the National Patriotic Christian Alliance. Unlike what the Initiative Commitee demanded, however, the packet shall not be split into several reforms as the failure of one legal text shall entail the practical inaplicability of all other texts.

[indent] "The decision to not split the measures and group everything under a single question was motivated by reasons of legal practicality and common sense," the Chancellery spokesman noted. "As this is an initiative against a legal project, the Chancellery is competent, within the framework of integrity, good will and subject to the procedures and modalities prescribed under Imperial Order, to decide upon the exact questions submitted to the Taraskovyan People."

The question asked shall thus be one of the longest ever to turn up in a referendum, as it shall in a single phrase list a good half a dozen legislative texts, including amendments to the Constitution and several Imperial Statutes. This has clearly upset the Initiative Committee, which has accused the Chancellery of attempting to force through the reforms by misleading the electorate. Indeed, the Initiative Committee deems that the government is scaring the people with the weigh of the responsibility upon their shoulders into voting in favour of the amendment.

Analysts deem that grouping the entire set of legislative amendments under a single question has both advantages and disadvantages. The major advantage is that breaking the measures up into several questions would lead to a practical inoperability of those dispositions that would in fact be voted. An example is that the Constitutional amendment shall be enacted, but not the Imperial Statute on Machine Sapiency that regulates the exact modalities of what is and is not a sapient machine mind. The constitutional disposition would, thus, hang around giving a right nobody knows how to apply. The contrary is also true: without a constitutional disposition, the application of an Imperial Statute might meet some problems within the judicial system.

On the other hand, a single question also means a single answer. And if this answer is "No", then the fate of machine sapiency in Taraskovya shall be far from clear. The pro-sapiency grouping in the Veche has already declared that it would resubmit a new set of texts in the future if the present attempt failed.

[Tarasovka]

From the Random News Media:

MECHANOID SAPIENCY PASSES REFERENDUM

With electronic voting closed and results across all Realms compounded, the constitutional reform package recognising and regulating machine sapiency within the Taraskovyan Empire has been accepted by the Taraskovyan People in referendum. With 51.76% of votes cast in favour, the result is certainly a close call, but was none the less celebrated by the initiators of the reforms. The opponents shall face a sour defeat. The turnout was registered at 43.12%.

The vote was completely boycotted in the Handalarian Lordships. Seldom few Handalarians voted. The seven Lords already issued a joint statement condemning the reform package and vowed to employ all legally available means to combat the application of the reforms within the legislation of their Lordships. It is unclear what such means are, exactly, as regional legislation must conform to Imperial Order unless a specific exemption is granted by this very same Imperial Order. And the reform package does not provide for any regional exemptions to the principle of recongising sapient mechanoids as benefitting from human rights.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

VOLKSTAAT IN TARASKOVYA?

The Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss has a new coalition, led by Femke Vologdova, Her High Excellency the Prime Minister and Her Highness the Countess of Pereslavl. The new coalition, however, is making headlines in Taraskovyan media not because of the fact that its leader is a Taraskovyan noble through her marriage to the Count of Pereslavl. The Coalition, composed of the Greens, Social Liberals and the Catholic People's Party, has amongst its many objectives the renewal of ties between the Dutch Democratic Republic and the Taraskovyan Empire. Which is a positive notion per se, as relations between the two countries have been cordial yet somewhat uninvolved.

What is causing a ruckus throughout the media is the renewal of the so-called language ties between the two countries. Taraskovyan participation in the Dutch Language Union, although agreed in principle by Vigvar through the Taraskovyan-Knootian Convention, is complicated by several factors. First of which is the fact that the Taraskovyan Dutch-speaking community is confused as to whether it considers itself dutch-speaking or not. The current trend promoted in the Utharian peninsula is to consider the local dialect as Utharian, a relative and derivative of Dutch, but a standard language of its own. An important standardisation and codification process is under way by local universities, which in turn has difficulties of its own.

The second problem is one of an administrative nature. Utharians live in their majority in three Fiefdoms of the United Kingdom of Cardinia and Dakathia that are: Uthar, Vyshna and South Cardinia. Long story made short, the problem can be described as such: the Dutch-speaking Fiefdoms, although enjoying the official use of their language, are part of a larger unit that is the United Kingdom, which uses Russian and Tarathian for official languages. Kingdom authorities do not concern themselves with Utharian-speaking issues, expressly delegating this measure to the Fiefdom authorities. However, any attempts by the three Fiefdoms to merge into some sort of supra-provincial unit have been blocked by the Kingdom authorities as inconsistent with the powers granted to the fiefdoms.

The development of the Utharian language is, thus, based on an agreement to which all three Fiefdoms adhere. The linguistic authority is limited in its scope and reach. Modifications and amendments to language politics, thus, take time as all three provincial governments and legislatures need to approve, after negotiations. This makes the process hard and complicated. In addition, the Fiefdom of Uthar is undergoing an internal dispute as the municipal governments on the Windlust Islands demand the creation of a separate Fiefdom to encompass the aforementioned islands. Opinion polls show that the population of the islands is in majority for a separation into a new provincial unit, whilst the authorities of the Fiefdom are opposed, deeming such a separation “useless”.

Dakatho-Cardinia (tyrian) with
the proposed Volkstaat (dashed)

This absence of a centralised Utharian-speaking authority has led to calls for a solution to be found. Two possible solutions to the problem have been identified. The first would see Dakatho-Cardinia as a whole adopt the Utharian language as official and create Realm-level institutions to handle the issues of the Utharian language, drawing from the native speakers for the job. This approach has not found support with the Kingdom authorities or the electorate in the Russian and Tarathian speaking parts of the Kingdom. The second solution is more radical and concerns the creation of separation of the Utharian-speaking part of the Kingdom into a new Realm-level subdivision within the Taraskovyan Empire. Needless to say, this approach has not found much support in the rest of the Kingdom, either.

But the creation of a Volkstaat, as the proponents call it, is gaining momentum amongst the Utharian-speaking community. Berend-Jan de Wijkerslooth, leader of the Volksalliantie, is an outspoken proponent of a Utharian Volkstaat within the Taraskovyan Empire. The Volksalliantie is a liberal political party that is active in regional elections and has been gaining popularity with the local electorate.

The problem is compounded and further complicated by the history of the region. Indeed, the United Kingdom of Cardinia and Dakathia (or Dakatho-Cardinia as it is sometimes referred) is the modern appelation of what was earlier known as the Grand Duchy of Taraskovya proper, the very heart and soul of the modern Taraskovyan nation. Unlike many other territorial acquisitions, which were not incorporated directly into the Grand Duchy, but kept under separate terms as dominions and possessions, the territories and the population of the Vortex Corporation (which continues to exist as a purely commercial entity) was annexed directly into the territory of the Grand Duchy proper, its citizens receiving all the same rights as Grand Ducal ones. This was explained by the long term friendship and alliance between the two nations and that Vortex nationals deserved to be treated as equals. Back then, this approach was not considered confrontational.

Today, however, this poses certain problems. Indeed, the newly reformed Taraskovyan Empire comprises Realms and Dominions. Realm citizens enjoy the full extent of political powers, whilst those in the Dominions enjoy them only on the regional and local levels. During the elevation of the Grand Duchy to the Empire, the territories that formerly comprised the Grand Duchy proper became a Realm-level subdivision of the Empire, the first level of regional self-government. Many other former colonies and possessions of the Grand Duchy were formally incorporated as Realms (Sortvala, Nyi-Gardarika, New Crimea, Dreamreach), their citizens receiving the full extent of political rights.

Within the new system, Utharians deem that whilst they do indeed benefit from the full extent of political rights and participate fully in the political life of the Empire, they cannot efficiently administer their affairs in culture and language areas without a Utharian-speaking Realm-level unit within the Empire. Such a Realm-level subdivision would not hurt the Taraskovyan Empire as Utharians do not demand secession from it, but to remain part of it. Proponents of the Volkstaat idea also put forward that a titular Grand Duchy of Uthar already exists and is one of the titles beared by His Most August Majesty the Vasilevs.

“Our present and future is within Taraskovya, everybody knows that,” Berend-Jan de Wijkerslooth commented. “However, Taraskovya has the wisdom to follow a federal approach to regional administration. Such an approach is welcome, a Utharian Realm would allow us to efficiently run our affairs without being a drain on the political process in Dakatho-Cardinia.”

Opponents of the concept provide other arguments. As such, Taraskovyan subdivisions have always followed geographic and historic patterns, ethnicity was never a deciding factor. To break this tradition would mean to potentially open a pandora's box in other multi-cultural regions. As an example, the United Provinces of Tavaroth are not as united as the title says, with disputes between the four constituent provinces a common occurence. Additionally, a secessionist low level insurgency in south Tavaroth is ongoing, despite having been driven underground by the Imperial security services. Other examples include Dakatho-Cardinia itself. Giving into the “ethnic principle”, opponents claim, could in the long term prove catastrophic for the stability of some Imperial regions, which would require the direct involvement of the Empire.

The question is far from being decided. Without real political will on the part of the Empire to take the matter into its hands and with Dakatho-Cardinia turning a deaf ear to the growing calls for a Volkstaat, the realisation of an autonomous Grand Duchy of Uthar seems far away. On the other hand, all polls indicate that the idea is growing in popularity amongst Utharians for an autonomous Grand Duchy of Uthar. The Imperial Government shall have to address the matter sooner or later.

[Tarasovka]

Excerpt from the popular political talk show “Let Them Argue” of the channel “Seven Stars”

The young looking energetic presenter, in a business suit and spectacles (with fake glasses, since he didn't need spectacles, but liked how he looked in them), was seen nodding in agreement with arguments provided by one of the parties before suddenly raising an interesting question that totally confused the person who only a minute ago believed that the presenter was fully on his side. Such was the style of Anton Kovalskiy, the polemic journalist.

“But don't you agree that the factual termination of a whole alliance of overtly slave trading nations coincides with such Taraskovyan interests as, for example, guaranteeing the security and safety of Taraskovyan citizens?”

The Count of Krolevets, the young and rising star of the National Patriotic Christian Alliance, whose charisma was recognized even by his fiercest opponents in the Constitutional Democratic and Liberal Socialist parties, prepared to answer, but was somewhat interrupted by another person present in the room, Dragica Liubenova.

“Not to say,” the female leader of the liberal socialist bloc in the Imperial Duma commented, “that nobody has ever repealed the statement issued by the Grand Duke Mstislav right after he exiled the Traditionalists. That all those who own slaves or otherwise treat men and women as property are mortal enemies of his and, thus, of all Taraskovya.”

“Yes, thank you, pani deputat,” the Count, who was also Imperial Senator, “for reminding us about something not connected with the exact issue at hand. The issue was not that we oppose fighting slavery. The issue is that we oppose awarding de facto enemies of the Taraskovyan state for whatever merits they have while fighting de jure enemies of the Taraskovyan state.”

“So the NPCA considers the Necrons as de facto enemies of the Taraskovyan state?” Kovalskiy interjected.

“Of course, pan Kovalskiy. We have always maintained that the elves and the necrons, no matter the treacherous foreign policies of the former Foreign Minister, the Count of Var-Gellath, are simply far too different for us to have any chance of accepting us as equals. Moreover, the consistent elvish policies of undermining Taraskovyan international policies have shown their true intentions that are...”

“But the military pacts with the mentioned nations were approved by the Vasilevs!”

“Yes, indeed they were. We are an Orthodox nation, we do not have the doctrine of Papal infallibility for the Vasilevs,” the Count of Krolevets jokingly parried. “If seriously, it has historically been so that in Taraskovya, the ruler was never considered infallible. Mistakes have been made, we have consistently pointed to them. The Vasilevs has consistently failed to adress the issues, instead preferring to hide behind his Loyalist Coalition in the Veche. And today, the Vasilevs takes things further and actually awards enemies of the Taraskovyan state with some of the highest awards of the Empire!”

“The Vasilevs'es position has been consistent with his intent to constitutionalise the political process in the Empire,” pani Liubenova interjected as Count Dmitry finished talking. “If His Most August Majesty intervened into the legislative process on every occasion, this would go against the reforms and the constitution that, among others, was drafted by His Most August Majesty. The Conservatives have decided to freeze the implementation of the military pacts with the Menelmacari, C'tanni and Kajali governments, which avoided rocking the boat too much. We liberal socialists agree that the Empire should not lock herself up in complete and utter isolation which the NPCA proposes.”

“Gentlemen and Ladies, what I propose is to hear out somebody who deals with the C'tan directly. The Representative of the Taraskovyan Empire on Duat, Teerathe Soint Kweedrat Menek,” Kovalskiy said as an uplink was established with Duat, a native Praksan in a tuxedo appearing on the screen. The Praksan was slowly balancing his head in rythm to a well known song by a Knootian DJ playing in the background in a hushed tone.

“Representative, thank you for your time.”

“Hi Anton! Hello everybody else! Now, what are the questions?”

The Count of Krolevets could be seen with a sour face. Indeed, the NPCA vehemently opposed the very notion of a non-human being made a de facto ambassador of the Taraskovyan Empire. Now, since the C'tan did not recognise diplomatic immunity, Taraskovya reciprocated by not extending diplomatic status to the necrontyr representation in Vigvar. In turn, Kweedrat Menek's official title was also Representative, a de facto ambassador without the de jure title. But since ambassadors are appointed by His Most August Majesty, the NPCA had no say in the matter.

“How would you value Taraskovyan-Necrontyr relations at this point?”

“Stable,” the little creature said after a second pondering.

“Do you think that the Necrontyr are enemies of Taraskovya or vice versa?”

“No,” the Praksan said. “There's no logical reason. Taraskovya has no reason to attack the Necrontyr and those have no reason to attack Taraskovya. The two countries are very different, but those are all the right kind of differences.”

“We here had a very vivid debate on the issue of awards. The Vasilevs has ordered the award of...”

“Ah, yes!” Teerathe exclaimed. “Lady Governor Kasterairin Eljarel, elevated to Cavalier of the Order of Saint Apostle Andrew the First Called for initiating and planning the operation against the OHTO,” the Praksan began reading from a mini-screen that popped up in front of him. “Royarch Xeno Kor'la Mesme, awarded with the Golden dagger with diamonds “For Ruse” and the Order of Saint Alexander the Great, 4th Grade, for the operation against the OHTO. Emperor Ranisath of the Necrontyr, awarded with the Golden dagger with diamonds “For Ruse” and the Order of Saint Alexander the Great, 4th Grade, for personal involvement in the operation against the OHTO. Edward Weir, elevated to Cavalier of the Order of the Sword for personal role during the dismantlement of the OHTO. All awards without pensions due to the foreign nature and residence of the new Cavaliers of the relevant Orders.”

“Thank you, Representative, but we already...”

“You're welcome!”

“Euh... yes. Pan Senator,” Kovalskiy said adressing the Count of Krolevets, “you have criticized the elevation of the Lady Governor to the highest Order of the Taraskovyan Empire, as well as the award of “For Ruse” daggers to two foreign nationals. However, echoes from the National Defence Forces indicate that the most prominent military officers applauded the operation against the OHTO as a historic example of how to defeat an enemy with his very own weapons all while suffering no casualties and only minimal expenses, fully compensated by the financial means expropriated from the slavers.”

“The golden award weapons, both “For Courage” and “For Ruse” are part of the Order of Saint Alexander the Great,” the Count replied, “which award feats of military excellence in service of the Taraskovyan Empire. Awarding foreign nationals is simply wrong, especially in an event in which the Taraskovyan Empire took no part, no matter how de jure common an enemy is.”

“Now, whilst my party does not in any shape or form endorse the sheer massacre of millions of civilians carried out by the Necrontyr during their operation, even we cannot deny the excellence of the operation. And the dismantling of an overt block of slave trading nations is,” Liubenova made a short pause to try to better formulate her next words, “in the long term a clear indication to all and any future slavers that punishment is right behind the corner.”

“Anton,” Teerathe said just as Dragica finished speaking. “I have to go, duties await. Bye bye!”

The Praksan waved to the audience and the screen showing the Taraskovyan mini-representative on Duat vanished before the talk show's presenter had any chance to say good bye or anything else.

“Besides, one can admit that the two new bearers of “For Ruse” daggers are quite worthy. Their operation,” a guest that until now barely said anything, General Konstantin Kahovskiy, phlegmatically and calmly intervened, “is well withing the spirit of the Statute of the Order of Saint Alexander, which specifically foresees such award weapons in cases where a military officer and commander showed such military ruse, that he routed the enemy with little to no casualties on his own side, thus technically rendering the “For Courage” award impossible. And there historically been very, very few awards. So yes, we in the military privately applauded the audacity and the efficiency of the anti-OHTO operation.”

“Does this mean that the army sides with the Necrons?” Kovalskiy interjected with a provocative question.

“Oh, the army sides with whoever the Vasilevs and the Veche tell us to side with. If need be, we'll fight alongside or against the Necrons, as the Taraskovyan People wills,” the General shrugged.

"One begs the question as to why no Allanean has so far been awarded with anything," the talk show's presenter mused.

"We shall stomp the slaver with a billion bayonets, we shall stab the slaver with a million tank threads!" Kahovskiy parodied a well known and somewhat repetitive Allanean proclamation. "There's neither ruse nor skill in mechanised human waves. Individual courage there must be, certainly. Or at least blind fanatism. For the Motherland, for Kazansky!" Yet another parody of a well known exclamation. "But it's clearly not up to the Taraskovyans to sort out which amongst the endless piles of Allanean body parts in a bombed out trench was the one to stab twelve slavers with his bayonet because he ran out of bullets killing the other fifty."

The General's remarks provoked an outburst of activity from other guests who until now remained somewhat passive in front of the heated dispute between the two arch-rivals that were Liubenova and the Count of Krolevets. The dispute and debate would go on for another half-hour, touching on matters of international politics, what to do with the Necrontyr, a dispute between those who thought that Taraskovya should take a more proactive policy against international slavers and those who preferred the current status quo of “Taraskovya cares for Taraskovyans, let others care for others”.

[The Ctan]

The Elenaran’s official desk was sizable, almost semi-circular, with the ends of the desk turned back by another pair of circles, giving it a faintly trapezoidal appearance from above. The huge expanse of lebethron and camphor-wood was smoothed and inlaid with script that was enameled into it in various places, curving lines of necrontyr design that made up a sophisticated set of reserve computer inputs; although the Elenaran needed no such thing, and few outside his own country could even read the high necrontyr script that decorated the desk in its lapis, gold and ivory colours, let alone decipher how to manipulate the systems.

This office, in Menelmacar, was where the Elenaran did most of his day-to-day work, when it required such a room, and with its broad windows looking over the many-tiered hanging gardens that clustered between the central towers of the palace, that could be dissolved to allow one to walk outside. On the table itself were pens and paper, ink and other typical accouterments, more for show than use, though each had a story to tell, each elaborate.

The guest side of the desk was divided from the main part by a low raised section on which various ornaments rested, a cylinder of gilt-edged ivory made from the carven tip of a void whale’s teeth, its tip sheered off to form a flat surface on which a statue of a golden eagle made from dulled gold, and a raven of black onyx. Beside it, a variety of ornaments and souvenirs rested beneath glass panes in illuminated, mirrored recesses.

He reached into one of these, hand passing through the material, to take a sleek object, a scoll case worked by a distant culture, a token of friendship. He would find somewhere else for it. Instead, in the null gravity field, he placed a knife, a short dagger with a jeweled golden hilt, diamonds sparkling lustrously, as the test on the glass, holographicly engraved into it, altered to label it.

Pride of place.

__ __ __

“Are you sure?”

The necrontyr woman frowned a little at her tailor as he pulled the silvery fabric to one side. “Of course, this is not the first time I’ve had to apply these principles to robes. Never quite so exotic though.”

“I see,” Kasterairin said, as she looked at her state robes. They were the highest and most formal form of necrontyr dress, and now, decorated with the accouterments of a Chevalier of the Order of Saint Andrew.

“Arm please,” the man said, and the governor raised her arms as he adjusted the sash underneath.

__ __ __

And this season, it seems, Taraskovyan motifs prevails, with white blue and black being the new pallet for a lot of creations…

Clothing Comment Annual, Editorial P4

__ __ __

Official Statement of the Office of the Elenaran

I should like to express on behalf of myself and my fellow recipients, my personal satisfaction and thanks for the most kind bestowal of awards on ourselves from the Vasilevs of Taraskovya.

It is always a fine thing to receive recognition, especially for those things one is proud of. We should like to reassure those in Taraskovya who consider the appointments to be contentious that we shall of course strive to be worthy of the highest traditions embodied in these orders and that our friendship to Taraskovya has never been greater, and we shall endevour to use this humbling recognition to further the cause of Taraskovyan-C’tani amity and friendship.

We should further like to express our thanks to all involved in the ceremonies¹ of investiture in all roles, especially those whose work made the event possible and memorable.

Ranisath nos Fëanor, Order of Saint Alexander the Great, 4th Grade
Kasterairin Eljarel, Cavalier of the Order of Saint Apostle Andrew the First Called
Xeno Kor'la Mesme, Order of Saint Alexander the Great, 4th Grade
Edward Weir, Cavalier of the Order of the Sword

---

¹ Because I’m assuming there is one, they’d all go, but I’m not really able to devote the time required to write something like that!

[Tarasovka]

From the Random News Media:

LIBERALS FAIL TO FINALISE COALITION

Talks between the Constitutional Democratic Party, an Imperial party with representation in the Veche, and the Utharian-based Liberal Party and People's Alliance have not resulted in the formation of a liberal coalition along the same lines as the Loyalist Coalition or the Left Bloc. All of the same parties already failed to form a coalition in the run up to last elections into the Imperial Veche, during which the People's Alliance and the Liberal Party simply failed to get into either the Duma or the Senate. The split liberal vote profited the Conservative Democratic Party, part of the Loyalist Coalition, that managed to win seats in ridings where the overall liberal result was superior to what the CDP candidates gained.

The question of the Volkstaat, which is the cornerstone of the People's Alliance's political platform, has proved problematic. The Constitutional Democrats do not wish to be seen as in any shape or form supporting separatism, even if of the internal form aimed at creating a new Imperial Realm out of an existing one, whilst the People's Alliance shall not sign up to any Coalition that does not support an Utharian Imperial Realm. The Liberal Party appears to be undecided on the question, with the Volkstaat question being low on its agenda. However, the Liberals do not wish to be seen in Uthar as ignoring a rising issue in local elections.

Commentators predict that if a liberal coalition is formed, the Constitutional Democrats and the Liberals shall do it without the Volksalliantie.

PRAKSAN ORIGINS ARTIFICIAL?

New finds on Praksa may indicate that native Praksans have an artificial origin. Ruins and artifacts of a technologically advanced civilisation on Praksa have already been found long ago and it has already been proven that native Praksans could not have erected or created the items and buildings in question. However, only recently have there been finds of what Taraskovyan scientists call “research centres” dedicated to the study of native Praksans. Whether these were studies performed on an existing species or actually works to create a whole new species is yet unknown. Archeologists indicate that documentary finds have been minimal and shall require careful decryption and analysis before any conclusion as to the artificial origin of the Praksans can be made.

KNOOTOSS TO LEAVE THE WORLD ASSEMBLY?

Citizens of the Dutch Democratic Republic shall vote in referendum as to whether Knootoss should slam the door on the World Assembly. The Republic has historically been known as a very active, yet somewhat controversial participant in the organisation, of which the Taraskovyan Empire has never been a member state.

NEW CRIMEA: PINK BUNNY COLA NOT “POISONOUS”

The New Sevastopol First Instance Court has thrown out a suit filed by a group of local citizens against Pink Bunny Cola, in which the plaintiffs alleged that the drink was full of additives that rendered it addictive and “poisonous to the mind”. The plaintiffs demanded an end to the commercialization of the drink within New Sevastopol.

The judge Elena Govorkina deemed that the version of the drink produced within the Taraskovyan Empire is in full conformity with Imperial health and sanitary legislation concerning general recreational drinks and does not contain any substances forbidden by Taraskovyan law for such a category of drinks. The judge based herself on the opinions of independent experts and the results of independent laboratory tests from New Crimea, Dreamreach, Cardino-Dakathia and Sortvala.

Only the Taraskovyan produced drinks are commercialized within the Empire, the court statement read. It was, thus, not necessary to submit drinks produced and commercialized outside of the Empire to laboratory testing.

Pink Bunny Cola is produced Pink Bunny Cola Incorporated, a Knooto-Pacitalian company, and is a popular, even if sometimes controversial, recreational drink throughout the universe. The drink is manufactured and commercialised in Taraskovya by Pink Bunny Cola Tarathia, a subsidiary of PBCI.

[Tarasovka]

From Random News Media:

KNOOTOSS DROPS THE EURO

Demand for the Euro dropped as foreign exchange traders sought to replace the currency with the new Knootian Currency Unit. However, some speculators are holding on to Euros in the hope of profit once Knootoss introduces a new formal currency. The Imperial Government has reacted neutrally to the Knootian announcement, making the rather expected demand that the Knootian government continue to honour all its debt bonds and other monetary obligations contracted with the Taraskovyan Empire and Imperial citizens.

Shares in Knootian companies listed on Taraskovyan stock exchanges dropped in value, something analysts predict will not have a lasting effect and will stabilise once the Knootian government announces more precise plans for a national currency. However, should the Vologdov administration drag on with the indecision, experts predict negative consequences for the attractiveness of Knootoss to foreign investors and of the KCU to foreign exchange traders.

POLL SHOWS TARASKOVYANS UNCONCERNED WITH SAPIENT MAGICAL PONIES

The poll conducted by the Vigvar Institute for Studying Sapient Rights private think tank showed that the majority of those polled were unconcerned by the whole “pony question” that is currently in the headlines all around the multiverse. As usual, results vary depending on the Realm and Dominion, with the Handalarians as usual coming in with a negative attitude, and Dakatho-Cardinians coming out as pretty much not giving a damn.

This said, the Taraskovyan Empire already counts under its jurisdiction sapient space hamsters and sapient cat people and, following the formal recognition of mechanoid sapiency, most Taraskovyans find the issue of “Are ponies human?” way too out of fashion. There have, currently, been no sightings of ponies within the Empire, an additional reason for Taraskovyans to be unconcerned with the whole drama.

PONY PRINCESS SNOBS PRAKSANS

Princess Luna, the autocratic ruler of a fiefdom bearing her name and infeodated to the Necrontyr Empire, has reportedly snobbed the offer made by the Knightly Order of the Poison Rose of Praksa to guarantee her security. The offer was in fact made after the pony Princess attempted to take a private army with her to Knootoss to attend a parliamentary inquiry on the Pony Question, something the Knootians refused.

The offer was then made by the Knootians, and experts point that such an offer would not have been possible without the direct avail of His Most August Majesty the Vasilevs of all Taraskovya, to have Praksan Knights guarantee Her Highness'es safety. The offer was reportedly aimed to compromise between the Knootian fear of Ponies, and Luna's fear of Knootians. An offer rejected by the purple Princess, who testified before the Knootian commission by video conference.

When asked for their comment, members of the Order of the Poison Rose refused to state any opinion and directed the journalists to their hierarchy, which in turn made no comment. Taraskovya's most famous Praksan, the Empire's representative to Duat, Teerathe Soint Kweedrat Menek had this to say: “ I know Princess Luna. She's very purple. Now, I have things to attend to! Bye bye!”

[Acarionne]

From The Aleksandrovsk Courier:

CZAR'S TERMINAL ILLNESS REVEALED TO THE PUBLIC

STRONTA—After a year of various rumours, it has been revealed by Vorontsov Palace that Nikolai IV, Czar of Acarionne, is terminally ill. The one-hundred-thirty-one-year-old Acaronn monarch is dying from a rare and relatively unknown ailment by which his great-grandfather, the czar Alexander VIII, died of two-hundred and fourteen years ago. The disease, usually referred to as "Anacreon's disease" after the Acaronn royal family, has appeared two other times in Acarionne's history: once in 791, with the death of Aleksei Anacreonov (younger brother to Pyotr Anacreonov, consort of Czarina Yekaterina), and again in 899, with the death of Grand Duke Vladimir Nikolaevich (second son of Czar Nikolai I and grandson to Czarina Yekaterina).

As there is currently no known cure for Anacreon's disease, the Czar of Acarionne, who officially retired from public life a year ago and named his son Tsesarevich Nikolai Nikolaevich ("Kolya") as Regent, is preparing his son for the duties of becoming the next dominion monarch. With the Czar's ailments having all ready lasted this long, doctors predict the monarch will not live to see Christmas.

No word has been heard from members of the Acaronn Royal Family, though Chancellor Alexei Baranov has stated that the Anacrenov family has temporarily left the capital city of Stronta, taking a long-overdue family retreat somewhere within the larger Taraskovyan Empire.

[Tarasovka]

From Rainy Sunday:

PONY GOVERNMENTS SNUB KNOOTIAN PLEA AGAINST EXPULSIONS

An initiative by the Prime Minister of Knootoss to raise awareness about the unacceptable nature of forced population exchanges and expulsions of entire ethnic groups has so far not had the success Hartstad surely wanted it to be. The appeal, which called upon all democratic governments to no longer accept forced expulsions as a legitimate tool of solving international disputes has fallen on deaf ears. The history of using forced population transfers as a means to avoid active warfare is a long and ancient one. Amongst the main proponents of such doctrines in the past (and in a lesser sense in the present, too) has been the Triumvirate of Yut, which often used its formidable war machine as a means to “convince” tin pot banana dictators to stop massacring some random ethnic group and instead allow their relocation to Yut countries. Historically, Elvish governments have also been keen to use this tool in order to assist kinsmen in far away countries that were being hunted down due to the pointidness of their ears.

The current trend, it appears, is the massacre/oppression/suppression/molestation/abuse (strike terms not required) of sapient equines, known colloquially as “Ponies”. Ever since the sudden appearance of “Ponies” in the multiverse and their arrival to power, most often through simply overthrowing the previous human government through the use of brainwashed mobs and means similar to military coups, there has been an upsurge in the “discovery” of “Ponies” in various tin pot backwater countries. And, similarly, there has been an upsurge of “Pony” governments going around waving their military might around, trying to impress banana dictators and force them to allow “Ponies” to be relocated to “Pony” countries. Banana dictators have had a pattern of deliberately trolling “Pony” governments with the refusal of the forced expulsions, even when such a solution (“Pony” governments offering to cover the expenses) was obviously the most profitable to those same banana dictators. Just think of it: you need man-hours and bullets (or other means) to exterminate living beings, which in turn costs money. However, nobody ever said that self-proclaimed Presidents For Life and other Eternal Emperors could align more than two neurons in a line.

The Knootian plea, calling upon the democratic governments of the world to not fall into the trap of forced expulsions, however, seems to have fallen on deaf ears. “Pony” governments, which are implicitly considered to be the main recipients of the message (the Knootians even had the good manners and politely called them democratic!) have simply failed to react. Maybe, despite the best intentions of the Knootian Prime Minister, “Pony” governments did not receive her letter, specifically because it was addressed to “democratic governments of the world”?

The question remains open.

From Random News Media:

PATRIARCH TO PRAY FOR THE HEALTH OF ACARIONNE CZAR

The Patriarch Nikon II of Vigvar and all Taraskovya has called upon the Taraskovyan faithful to pray for the good health and well being of His Majesty Nicholas IV, the Tsar of Acarionne. The court doctors of the Vorontsov Palace have confirmed that His Majesty the Tsar will most likely not live past Christmas. Czar Nicholas IV has been the ruler of Acarionne since 1071 AS. Under his rule, the Czardom went through the Aphyr Conflict and through the Periphery Wars after the Czar refused to recognise the valid rule of the military junta in Vigvar. The Taraskovyan Grand Ducal restoration also restored the Czar to his own throne. In the event of the Czar's untimely passing, he shall be succeeded by his son, who shall become the Czar Nicholas V.

It is understood that Their Most August Majesties the Vasilevs and Vasilessa of all Taraskovya have joined with the family of the Czar at the unnamed private retreat in Dakatho-Cardinia to show the highest support of the House of Shakhovskoy-Karetsah to the House of Anacreonov.

[Acarionne]

From The Aleksandrovsk Courier:

ACARONN PERSONAL UNION WITH DENNHOLM CONTESTED

STRONTA—With the news of Czar Nikolai's illness and impending demise, one noble house within the independent Kingdom of Dennholm has raised awareness over the issue of Dennholm's personal union with the Czardom of Acarionne. Joachim, Count of Virum, has contested the House of Anacreonov's claim to the Denne throne, asserting that his family, the House of Rosenørn, would better serve the interests of the independent Denne nation-state. While several in Dennholm's government have ignored the Count of Virum's protests, some in the Denne legislature have voiced their own concern over whether the Anacreonov family should remain on their country's throne.

The personal union between the thrones of Acarionne and Dennholm was created in 969 after King Erik VII of Dennholm died without issue, thus causing the extinction of Dennholm's royal family, the House Helsingør, as well. Rather than offering the crown to Erik's crazed cousin, the Baroness Thyra of Bogense, who was next in the Kingdom's line of succession, the Parliament of Dennholm offered the throne to Erik's maternal uncle, Czar Nikolai III of Acarionne. With the ascension of Nikolai III (or Nikolas III) to the nation's throne, the Kingdom of Dennholm came under the influence of the Anacreonov dynasty. As such, with the outbreak of the Aphyr Conflict and the subsequent Periphery Wars, the Denne islands have suffered the same consequences as its larger neighbor, seeing the deposition of its monarchy and its government soon after Stronta's surrender in those conflicts.

In his speech delivered to the town hall of Dennholm's capital, Sønderhavn, Count Joachim Rosenørn of Virum accused the Anacreonov family of exploiting the country's treasury and resources for their own personal benefit rather than for the good of the Denne people. The disgruntled nobleman has proposed abolishing the country's personal union with Acarionne and setting up a new isolationist state in the Denne islands. With the Acaronn Royal Family still away from the political matters of Stronta, no word has been released by Vorontsov Palace to the Count of Virum's allegations. However, the response in Sønderhavn has shown that several Denne citizens are rallying to the defense of their monarch, though some have proposed holding a nationwide referendum on the issue of the Anacreonov family's tenure on the throne.

[Acarionne]

From The Aleksandrovsk Courier:

THE CZAR IS DEAD; KOLYA NAMED NIKOLAI V

STRONTA—It has been confirmed by sources within Vorontsov Palace that Czar Nikolai IV Alexandrovich has died from his illness. The 132-year-old Acaronn monarch, who was diagnosed with Anacreon's disease a year ago, died peacefully in his sleep last night while still vacationing at the Acaronn Royal Family's private estate in the Dakathian city of Mrath. It has been announced by palace officials that the Czar's funeral will take place on 2 January 1159, after the New Year's celebrations. Nikolai IV will be buried at Saint Andrew's Cathedral in Stronta, where he married his wife, Czarina Tatiana Pavlovna, in 1068.

With the death of his father, Tsesarevich Nikolai ("Kolya") Nikolaevich Anacreonov has been named Nikolai V, Czar of Acarionne, while his wife, Nathalie Andreevna, has been named Czarina consort. As the new royal couple has no male offspring, their daughter, Grand Duchess Mischa Nikolaevna, has been named by Parliament has heiress presumptive to the Acaronn throne. However, in the event that the Czar and Czarina have a son in the future, he will take precedence over his older sister and become heir apparent to the throne.

While Nikolai V has succeeded his father as the monarch of the Acaronn czardom, he has made a public announcement that he has forfeited his claim to the throne of the Kingdom of Dennholm. Rather, he and the Denne legislature will decide upon the successor to the Denne throne in the coming week. While supporters of the Count of Virum are pushing for his candidacy for the crown, others are calling for a relative of the Anacreonov family.

From Caelum Magazine:

NATHALIE ANDREEVNA PREGNANT?

VETERGOROD—Amid the buzz of Czar Nikolai IV's death and Kolya's ascension as Nikolai V, rumours have been circulating throughout the Czardom of the possibility that the new czarina, Nathalie Andreevna (née Nathalie de Montijo), may be pregnant with a second child. While unconfirmed by government officials, the news of Nathalie's possible pregnancy has been fueled by the fact that the former tsesarevna has not been seen in public for the past four months. Only after the news of Czar Nikolai IV's illness was there any mention of Nathalie Andreevna, who, before now, has always remained in the public spotlight of Strontan society.

Now that the Royal Family will be returning to the capital for Nikolai IV's funeral, we at Caelum will be watching closely at the new Czarina and will update our readers on our findings.

[Tarasovka]

From Random News Media:

EMPIRE MOURNS ACARONN CZAR

After the official announcement of the passing of the Czar Nicholas IV of Acarionne, the Vasilevs of all Taraskovya issued a decree proclaiming a period of mourning starting December 30th and ending January 5th. As per the Decree, all Imperial and Regional authorities are to fly all official flags at half mast in mourning. National Defence Forces formations with their permanent or temporary base of operations in Acarionne, as well as those formations drawing on the majority of their recruitment from Acarionne, are to fly a black ribbon on their colours. Special provisions, however, ensure that New Year celebrations would proceed, even if in a somewhat toned down fashion.

The funeral of Nicholas IV of Acarionne shall take place on January 2nd. Amongst those in attendance shall be the Vasilevs and Vasilessa of all Taraskovya, Grand Duchess Hanna of Sortvala, Grand Duchess Vethara of Taraskovya, the Chancellor of the Taraskovyan Empire and the members of the Council of Ministers of the Taraskovyan Empire, other high ranked members of the Imperial nobility, administration and military.

The mess at the funeral shall be led by the Patriarch Nikon II of Vigvar and all Taraskovya, assisted by the Metropolite Dimitri of Stronta.

[Tarasovka]

From Rainy Sunday:

EDIT: Aprils Fools.

* - * - *

SLAVERY LEGALISED IN THE HANDALARIAN LORDSHIPS

In a news that came as thunder amidst a clear sky, the Winter Palace announced that His Most August Majesty the Vasilevs has signed a decree dubbed "On Reform in the Handalarian Lordships and Imperial Oversight". This decree officially modifies the articles of the Imperial Constitution that name the Seven Lordships as integral Realms of the Taraskovyan Empire, relegating them to the status of Dominions. The decree further allows the local governments of the Lordships of Tal-Kerillion, Tarathlor, Darth, Kshas-Darth, Var-Danar, Nemerath and Shadreth to reestablish the practice of chattel slavery in so far as such practices would be limited only to denizens of foreign states that are not counted amongst the Empires allies or privileged trading partners.

The Handalarian Lordships were founded by those traditionalist Tarathians exiled in the aftermath of the Strife, the civil war in old Tarathia that opposed abolitionist Tarathians and their former slave Ros allies against a core of traditionalist Tarathians that wanted to maintain the status quo at all costs. Xenophobia and disregard not just for foreigners, but also for non-Tarathians is rampant within the Seven Lordships and they have long caused problems to the Imperial authorities. Now removed from the full extent of the Imperial Constitution, the territories seem to be free to practice their ways as they see fit.

The piece of legislation is remarkable due to the fact that slave owning and trading continues to be a crime worthy of capital punishment within the Taraskovyan Empire. The decree has specialised provisions for this purpose, noting that such chattel slavery shall be confined entirely within the geographic limits of the Handalarian Lordships and that any attempt to "export" it to the rest of the Empire shall see the full application of Imperial Order.

The move is bound to spark additional controversy as the Vasilevs has used the full extent of his powers to bypass the standard constitutional procedure and enact constitutional amendments by decree. This is bound to displease the adepts of constitutional monarchism, who are a major voice in national politics.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

UTHARIAN LIBERALS AGREE TO COOPERATE

A negotiating shock team led by Georgiy Dubnov, Pan Deputy of the Imperial Duma from the Constitutional-Democratic Party, representing the Duchy of Zoria, and assisted by a heavy weight of Knootian politics and a former Prime Minister, the Social-Liberal Lousewies van der Zaan, managed to bring the feuding Utharian liberal parties together. The Utharian Liberal Party (Uthariaanse Liberale Partij) and and the People's Alliance (Volkalliantie) have been feuding over the issue of creating a separate Utharian-speaking Imperial Realm within the Taraskovyan Empire. Whilst the former supported the existing status quo, the latter are decisively in favour of the creation of what they term as a “Volkstaat”.

This division in opinions prevented the two parties not only from cooperating between themselves, but also with the Constitutional Democratic Party during the latest elections to the Imperial Veche. The end result was a major defeat for disunited liberal candidates in the Utharian Fiefdoms. Earlier attempts to form a pan-liberal Imperial Coalition to the likes of the conservative Loyalist Coalition have always stumbled upon this issue. Now, it seems, the Constitutional Democrats have had enough of their feuding ideological allies and have apparently succeeded in bringin the two parties together.

In a joint press conference, ULP leader Peter van Veen and VA leader Berend-Jan de Wijkerslooth, accompanied by their mediators, laid out the foundations of the Utharian Liberal Alliance, comprising the ULP and the VA, to put forward united candidates in Imperial and Realm-level elections. The joint statement, released during the press conference, read as follows.

We, Utharian liberals, believe that constitutional issues should be resolved in the context of genuine liberal values. United we stand for free markets, free peoples, and rights for all Taraskovyans.

Forward-thinking liberalism regards people as individuals, not as groups. We must not let ethnic tribalism get in the way of our common aspirations towards a free community that respects the right of Utharian-speaking people to educate their children in their own language, and to have their government talk to them in a language that they can understand.

We believe in an inclusive Taraskovyan Empire that welcomes the multitude of cultures that live together in a common space.

On the issues of the creation of, within the Taraskovyan Empire and under her sovereignty, of an Imperial Realm encompassing the territories of the existing Fiefdoms of Uthar, Vyshna and Southern Cardinia, as well as on the issue of the creation within the existing constitutional frame of the United Kingdom of Cardinia and Dakathia of a new Fiefdom encompassing the territory of the Windlust Islands, through their partition from the Fiefdom of Uthar, we liberals believe a referendum would be the right way to settle these issues.

To this end the Utharian Liberal Alliance shall be established, comprising the Utharian Liberal Party and the People's Alliance, to, in cooperation from our allies in the Constitutional Democratic Party, provide a united and strong liberal outlook on all major issues.

Political experts agree that the establishment of an effective coalition between the three parties gives them a real chance during next Imperial elections. However, whether the liberals shall manage to keep the divisive issue of the “Volkstaat” from dividing them again remains to be seen. The participation of veteran Knootian politician Lousewies van der Zaan in the talks also hints a growing interaction and cooperation between Taraskovyan and Knootian liberals.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

VECHE RATIFIES OOSTERBEEK

The Imperial Senate followed the Imperial Duma in ratifying the Treaty of Oosterbeek between Taraskovya, Knootoss and Pantocratoria. The Knootian Estates-General have already approved the treaty and, following the Taraskovyan ratification, only the Pantocratorian assent is required for the treaty to enter force. The potential fourth founding member, Excalbia, has apparently decided to back out of the ratification process and forfeit her participation. In accordance with the Ratification Bill voted by the Veche of the Taraskovyan Empire, any subsequent decision by the Excalbian Empire to adhere to the treaty shall require a new vote of the Imperial Veche as per Article 6, Section 1 of the Treaty.

There is some confusion as to whether Excalbia still has any right to ratify the treaty and become a full member of the Treaty in quality of a founding member. Indeed, Excalbian plenipotentiaries signed the treaty before it went into formal ratification. However, it seems that Taraskovyan lawmakers have foreseen a special arrangement, with the wording of the Treaty of Oosterbeek Ratification Bill implying that even if Excalbia were to somehow ratify the treaty and pretend to founding member status, and this ratification would become accepted by the other two founding members that are Pantocratoria and Knootoss, the Taraskovyan Empire would not consider herself obligated by the treaty towards Excalbia until a formal vote in the Imperial Veche to extend the treaty to Excalbia in full accordance with provisions on the admittance of new members.

[Acarionne]

From The Sochi Journal:

CZARINA WELCOMES SECOND CHILD

SOCHI—After months of speculation and general secrecy, it has been confirmed by Vorontsov representatives that Czarina Nathalie Andreevna has given birth to a son, Tsesarevich Maksim Andrey Nikolaevich Anacreonov. The child, the first born to Nathalie Andreevna after Grand Duchess Mischa Nikolaevna, has been proclaimed the heir apparent to the throne of Acarionne, taking precedence over his older sister. In regard to the secrecy surrounding the Czarina's pregnancy, palace officials have stated that due to complications in her pregnancy, Nathalie Andreevna and her husband, Czar Nikolai V, decided to conceal any indication of possible health issues in the royal family.

With the birth of Maksim, Nikolai and Nathalie have named Nikolai's sister, the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Acarionne, as the child's godmother and Dmitriy (Mitya) Maksimovich Lebedev as the boy's godfather. The selection of Lebedev, the openly bisexual and agnostic domestic partner of Anastasia, has caused quite a bit of controversy within social circles back in the capital. However, this is not the first time the Czar and Czarina have courted controversy. Back in 1156, with the birth of their daughter, Mischa, Nikolai and Nathalie named Éndymion I, Emperor of the Tresthèren, as the Grand Duchess's godfather. As the Tresthyrean monarch is not of the Taraskovyan Orthodox faith, critics blasted the royal couple. Now, with the selection of Mitya Lebedev, it only seems a matter of time until critics begin another rampage on the couple's selection.

From The Aleksandrovsk Courier:

PROTESTS ERUPTING ACROSS CAETHMOS

THEBES—According to various news reports, protesters across the Acaronn province of Caethmos are calling for national sovereignty. The province, whose citizens are predominantly of Greek ancestry, is experiencing large riots in major cities, including the provincial capital of Thebes and other metro areas, such as Megara and Sounion. With the Utharian debate going on in Cardinia and Dakathia, supporters of Caethmosian independence are seeking to take advantage of the situation in the United Kingdom, calling for the creation of a provisional republic.

Caethmos, conquered by the Acaronns in the ninth century AS, was once a prosperous Greek kingdom, ruled by the House of Lethe. With their defeat at the hands of the Acaronns, however, the Caethmosians bitterly began integrating into Acaronn society. For the past few centuries, the province has been relatively quiet. Fighting alongside their Ros Acaronn counterparts in the Aphyr Conflict, the Caethmosians experienced their first taste of political independence under the Taraskovyan Federation. Under the federal government, Caethmos came under the authority of the Council of Thebes, a separate body from that of the Council of Stronta, which ruled over the rest of the Czardom. With the restoration, Caethmos was reunited with Amesthir and Thul Alard under the Acaronn banner once more.

Today, with calls for political sovereignty, Vorontsov Palace officials have stated that Caethmos will not be granted autonomy by the Acaronn government. Acaronn Chancellor Alexei Baranov was quoted saying, "Caethmos will not be granted any sort of independence from the government in Stronta. If the Caethmosians really want a republican government that badly, they can move to Abt." The Chancellor's words have caused a stir in Caethmos, with some responding by referring to Baranov an overpaid pompous pig. Protesters have countered by releasing the following statement: "We are not merely seeking a republican form of government; we wish for national sovereignty and a renewed national identity. Relocating to the Abtian Republic will not solve anything."

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

IMPERIAL CHANCELLOR CALLS FOR CALM IN CAETHMOS

Her High Excellency the Chancellor of the Taraskovyan Empire has issued a call for calm in Caethmos following important riots in the Acaronn province's largest cities after pro-independence protests degenerated into looting, vandalism and violence. In a public statement, the Imperial Chancellor Muravieva-Apostol has called upon the government and the people of Acarionne to comply with the Imperial Constitutional and Legal Order and solve all outstanding issues of administrative and other organization within the existing legal framework. Her High Excellency also expressed her confidence in the capacity of the local Acaronn law enforcement agencies to deal with violent elements within the protest movement.

The Caethmosian riots surprised many in the political establishment through their scope and the violence that followed. Various “internal separatist” and pro-independence movements are not new throughout an Empire that comprises numerous kins. There are at least two political parties calling for separation in the Atlantic Isles, although the two disagree on what to do next (whether remain independent or rejoin Allanea). There is a strong “internally separatist” movement in the Utharian Fiefdoms that calls for creation of a separate Imperial Realm within the Taraskovyan Empire. There are strong secessionist feelings in the Southern Province of Tavaroth, which has yet to take an organized and politically acceptable shape. The list may go on.

The common thing about most these movements is their peaceful nature and orientation on attaining results through a political process. With exception of the low scale insurgency by violent clericalists of the Church of Illumination in Southern Tavaroth, most of the “violence” is in fact verbal and happens during political debates and rallies. Neither the violent elements in Southern Tavaroth or the politically active elements in other Realms are expected to attain a result anytime soon. Anatoly Gorbishev, an expert on Taraskovyan Constitutional Law and the history of the Taraskovyan State explains.

“There is so far no precedent of a Taraskovyan territorial unit obtaining independence. The Abt Republic may not be cited as an example, for the territory was acquired by private citizens, there was never a formal extension of sovereignty over the area by Vigvar and there was never a formal proclamation by the settlers that they claimed the land in the name of the Taraskovyan crown. What we had was that those who settled in the Abt Republic renounced their allegiance to the Vasilevs, this was accepted and hence why nowadays a citizen of the Republic may not simultaneously be a citizen of the Empire. Exception made of the Abt Republic, no corner of Taraskovya has ever become independent. The Empire, on the contrary, has been steadily expanding through both conquest and peaceful integration.

“There is also no formal mechanism to secede. There is no right to secession. In theory, it would be possible for an Imperial Realm to secede if such a secession is approved in a referendum by a majority of the Empire's population and a majority of the Realms, then also approved by the Imperial Veche. The only Realm large enough to pull this off is Cardinia and Dakathia, but this would be nonsense, since Cardinia and Dakathia is the very core and heart of the Empire.

“In the case of Caethmos, the matters are even more complicated. Indeed, the Taraskovyan Empire recognizes the right of the Acaronn Czardom to internally organise itself as it deems fit. In this, Acarionne enjoys even more self rule than Imperial Realms, a status made possible by the complicated arrangements consolidating Acarionne's status as an Imperial Dominion within the Empire. As such, unless Acarionne decides to cede Caethmos into Imperial governance, the isles shall remain part of Acarionne within the framework forseen by the Czardom's constitution and laws. Even if the Acaronns do decide to cede the isles into Imperial governance, we'd see the creation of a new Realm, a new Dominion or the adjoining of the islands to an existing Realm or Dominion. All this still within the Taraskovyan Empire. One can hardly speak of national sovereignty through a republic in such a case.”

The route towards the potential independence of Caethmos thus seems long and hard and success is far from guaranteed. Until then, some political analysts indicate that it is pretty much pointless to riot, as the Empire prefers calm and peace and acts swiftly to restore tranquility. For the time being, the government in Vigvar is confident in the capability of the Acaronns to resolve this issue themselves. Should things go awry, the Council of Ministers may decide upon the use of the Security & Quarantine Forces to restore peace in Caethmos. Such an action may also be requested by the Government of Acarionne. But so far there seems to be no indication that Imperial intervention is required.

In the meantime, tourism agencies are reporting a reorientation of Imperial tourist traffic from Caethmos to the nearby Windlust Islands, which are located in the same climate zone, but are known for their peace, tranquility and the complete absence of riots. And this despite having their own "internally separatist" movements on several layers of the administrative spectrum!

[Tarasovka]

Joint post between Tarasovka and Excalbia.

Citadel Excalbia, Holy Empire of Excalbia, Western Atlantic

It was not the first working visit of His Excellency Alexei Shen-Shoturskiy, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Taraskovyan Empire, His Grace the Duke of Var-Vilena and Southern Aphyr et al. to a foreign country. But it was his first working visit to Excalbia in the quality of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Taraskovyan Empire. His schedule for the three days ahead was quite busy, from meetings with his Excalbian colleagues and counterparts to meeting with representatives of the small Taraskovyan expat community in Excalbia and members of the Excalbian business community.

But all of this would be in the days to come. At the moment, the Taraskovyan Minister had a scheduled meeting with his Excalbian counterpart, the Minister of State, Lady Christina Freedman. Aside from the regular and traditional chatter about hypothetical theories of possible future considerations of deepening relations that were so often uttered in diplomatic meetings and so rarely led to anything, there was one precise point on the agenda the Taraskovyan Minister wanted to discuss. In fact, he was pretty much obligated to discuss it as per a recent motion by the Veche of the Taraskovyan Empire to refuse to admit the Holy Empire of Excalbia to the Treaty of Oosterbeek until clarifications are obtained on earlier Excalbian turnarounds.

And this was precisely what the Duke Alexei of Southern Aphyr intended to do.

Although the art nouveau building that originally housed the Ministry of State had long since been embedded in a thoroughly modern glass and steel structure, the elegant late 19th century facade continued to house the Ministry’s formal diplomatic entrance. It was there, beneath the towering figures representing various virtues, that the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister was received by the Chief of Protocol and suitably large cadre of senior officials including two Director-Generals and a host of Directors and Deputy Directors.

The Taraskovyan Foreign Minister and his entourage were politely and efficiently conveyed through the marble-floored entry hall, into an ornate private elevator and up to the Minister’s suite on the eighth floor. Like the diplomatic entry hall, the eighth floor boasted marble tile floors, elaborately inlaid wood paneled walls and art nouveau flourishes, such as the four figures holding aloft a stylized map of the Western Atlantic centered on the Excalbian Isles. Beneath the figures stood a pair of Imperial Marine guards and the entrance to the Minister’s office.

The Marines saluted crisply as the Duke of Var-Vilena was ushered through the doors and into the Minister’s office.

Lady Christina Freedman, dressed in a figure-flattering navy suit with a orange silk blouse, stood as the Duke entered. She crossed in front of her desk and walked towards the Foreign Minister. She flashed her most telegenic smile and bowed slightly in the Excalbian fashion.

“Your Excellency,” the Minister of State said as she extended her hand in the Knootian-style, “welcome to the Holy Empire.” Lady Christina gestured towards a seating area arranged around a beautiful ceramic fireplace. “Please, have a seat.” She guided the Foreign Minister towards a large upholstered chair. “Would you care for tea or coffee? Or perhaps a glass of wine or vodka?”

“Thank you, Your Excellency, but I usually reserve vodka only for the most formal of occasions,” Duke Alexei said with a smile, clearly referring to the several cases where Taraskovyan protocol foresaw drinking vodka from crystal glasses and then smashing those same glasses on the floor. “A green tea will do just fine.”

“It is an honour and a pleasure to finally be in Excalbia, Your Excellency. And I can already and immediately issue a formal return invitation for you to visit the Taraskovyan Empire with a working visit at a convenient time in the future,” the Taraskovyan Minister said with a polite smile. “I believe our mutual teams shall be able to work out a filled agenda for us to discuss so that we may bring the relations between our two powers to new levels.”

As Lady Christina gestured for the Foreign Minister to take his seat a staff assistant unobtrusively placed a steaming cup of green tea in a fine china cup on the coffee table in front of Duke Alexei. A silver tea service with milk, cream and sugar was placed in the center of the table. The various assistants and note-takers to both ministers took their seats and Lady Christina eased into a chair across from the Taraskovyan. She picked up a cup of coffee and crossed her legs in one smooth motion.

“Thank you for the kind invitation, Your Excellency,” the Minister of State said sweetly. “I would love to visit your Empire. It would be refreshing to see another part of the world. And I think it would be very wise on our part to more fully develop our relationship with your Empire. I trust that your visit to the Holy Empire will be a promising beginning to the development of such a relationship. I think the political and economic benefits to both our peoples would make our efforts quite worthwhile.”

Lady Christina sipped her coffee, then lowered the cup and held it in her lap. “Well, Your Excellency, I believe we have quite a full agenda, ranging from trade and investment to consular matters to our accession to the Treaty of Oosterbeek.” She smiled at the Duke. “So, where would you like to begin?”

“Ah, yes, Oostrbeck... I never manage to pronounce it right,” the Taraskovyan Minister said with a smile. “I believe that while at it we could start with this and get this issue out of the way. I have to admit that the Holy Empire’s maneuvering in this matter has left many in Vigvar somewhat confused as to what Excalbia really wants.”

The Duke paused as he blew on his tea a bit and then took a sip.

“Quite an excellent tea you have here, Your Excellency. Maybe I could borrow some on the way back to Vigvar?” Alexei smiled again. “I am aware that Excalbia and Knootoss have had certain differences lately due to diverging interests in the Western Atlantic, ranging from the war in southern Epheron and on to the war in the Eastern March. So Excalbia’s refusal to adhere to a treaty of collective security with Knootoss was seen as logical. But now, Your Excellency, the news are that Citadel Excalbia has ratified the treaty, causing quite a bit of confusion in Vigvar. In fact, such is the confusion that the Committees for Foreign Affairs of both the Duma and the Senate have jointly tasked me with making clear the Excalbian position on the matter.”

“Of course,” Lady Christina said after taking a sip of her coffee, “I can understand the Duma’s... and the Senate’s concerns.” She smiled. “And, of course, yes, I shall have a case of tea sent to your suite; I believe that it comes from Ajuba. As does the coffee.” She took another sip, then returned the cup to the saucer in her left hand. “But back to Oosterbeek. You see, our actions with regard to the Treaty have, unfortunately, been driven by our relationship with the Knootians. As you know, we have a long-standing military alliance with Pantocratoria, while our relationship with Knootoss has been... shall we say, somewhat fraught with ambiguity.”

Setting her cup and saucer on the table, the Minister of State continued. “After finding ourselves on the same side of the war in Iesus Christi and after deciding to work on some joint military projects, there was great hope that our relationship with Knootoss had made a final, decisive turn towards partnership. And that a formal alliance would cement that relationship and... establish certain... parameters, shall we say, that would reassure both parties. Oosterbeek appeared to be a good vehicle to secure these objectives. Unfortunately, as quickly as we can together, we and the Knootians seemed to come apart, hence the decision to shelve the Treaty.”

Lady Christina smiled and leaned forward slightly. “And now I can see why our decision to return the Treaty may seem confusing. However, it was precisely this last stand-off with Knootoss that convinced us that conflict between our two nations would simply be unthinkable. Both for the damage it would do to each of us and the harm it would bring to the entire region. Hence, our renewed desire to formalize a relationship with Knootoss.” She dropped her voice slightly as if sharing a confidence. “In fact, it was the Knootians who pressed for the relationship to be formalized through the ratification of Oosterbeek. While, such a position may seem odd at first, we concluded that it was perfectly logical. By binding Excalbia and Knootoss together with Pantocratoria and Taraskovya, we not only cement the bilateral relationship but secure it with partners that each of us find reliable, yet which are both great powers in their own right. Bilaterally, for us and Knootoss, it makes a great deal of sense.”

The Minister leaned back in her chair. “Not that we view Oosterbeek solely through the prism of the bilateral relationship with Knootoss, nor that we view our partnership in the treaty with Pantocratoria and Taraskovya solely in terms of mediating that bilateral relationship.” She shook her head. “No, we consider the relationship that treaty opens up with your country as an enormous opportunity. Despite recent crises, we recognize that the Western Atlantic is, by and large, an island of stability in a chaotic world. And the more allies we have, both within and beyond the region, the better the chance we stand of maintaining this stability.”

“We have enormous respect for your Empire, Your Excellency, and believe that an alliance would be of enormous benefit to us and to the region. We also, false modesty aside, believe that we make good allies. We have been allied for Pantocratoria and the Caldan Union for quite some time and I think that both nations would attest to the fact that we have never failed to answer a call for assistance or support in either the military or political realm. I dare say that, even despite our checkered history with Knootoss, she would recognize that we were among the first nations to answer her call to stand with her in the defense of freedom in Iesus Christi. So, I am confident that the Taraskovyan Empire would find in the Holy Empire a true and faithful ally, should our accession to Oosterbeek be ratified.”

The Taraskovyan Minister remained pensive throughout the Excalbian’s exposé of the Holy Empire’s position. Lady Christina’s words had a certain logic to them, even if it did appear more like an arranged union rather than a marriage by love. Knootoss and Excalbia brought together in their rivalry so that they would not kill each other. And despite Lady Christina’s assurances, it did appear that Pantocratoria and Taraskovya would be called in to play the mediators.

“I can understand that the Knootians can be quite complicated to deal with at times,” the Taraskovyan Duke mused. “They are prone to opportunistic escapades. And to bouts of uncontrolled paranoia. We have had our own experience, I may assure you. I remember when we announced we were shutting down that KDF base in the Europolis Isles... ah, the fun times. And yet, despite actually fighting each other not so long ago during the Shadow War, today Taraskovya and Knootoss enjoy a very efficient and friendly relationship. And somehow, despite the pronounced ideological differences, we often see eye to eye on most things. I think it takes quite a deal of patience to deal with the Knootians.”

“I am curious to see how the Holy Empire and the Hollandic Republic shall get along within this new framework that is the Treaty of Oosterbeek. As far as the Taraskovyan side is concerned, we already enjoy a rather expanded relationship with the Knootians and our ties to the Pantocratorians are evolving by the day. Excalbia is a very interesting and promising partner to have. Your past history of holding your end of the bargain have certainly not gone unnoticed,” Alexei spoke. “And I have to say that I personally admire the Excalbian code of conduct in her relationships with her allies. The Holy Empire’s rather... and pardon my words... blunt support of her Epheronian allies during the whole Zamimbian affair is worthy of admiration. And in this, Your Excellency, I have to say, lies the principal difference between the Knootians and the Excalbians. Knootians shall follow the currents of opportunism, whilst the Excalbians shall stubbornly stay still in the face of a tsunami. If I may be pardoned the rather cheap metaphor. How the two of you shall live side by side within Oosterbeek shall be quite curious to see. But as I have already said, these considerations are only one of many alongside the more direct benefits Taraskovya can gain from partnering with Excalbia.”

Lady Christina’s smile never once faded as she listened to the Taraskovyan Foreign Minister. “I agree with you, Your Excellency,” she said after yet another sip of coffee, “that dealing with Knootoss effectively takes a certain measure of patience... and, perhaps, we have not always been as patient or as... flexible as we could have been. However, I do believe that we and Knootoss, as well as Pantocratoria and Taraskovya, share a certain commonality of interests that can bridge such differences and make the Treaty a success.” Her smile took on a sharp aspect. “Not that it will come without hard work, but I do believe that the outcome will prove worth the effort.”

The Minister of State leaned forward slightly. “And to speak of direct benefits to Taraskovya, we would welcome the opportunity to deepen our bilateral relationship and explore areas of cooperation, both within and outside the treaty, that would be to our mutual benefit.”

“I agree that all venues should be explored that are beneficial to both our countries,” the Taraskovyan Minister nodded as Lady Christina finished speaking. “As is, the Oosterbeek treaty is not really all that vast and does not cover a whole multitude of domains and issues, ranging from culture to the economy.”

The Duke of Var-Vilena and Southern Aphyr paused a bit before continuing.

“I am satisfied with Your Excellency’s clarifications and assurances on the issue and I shall be making a report to this end,” the Duke said with a smile after sipping some more on his tea. “However, as I will not be ultimately making the decision to ratify the Excalbian accession to the Treaty or not, I believe it could be a nice idea to have Excalbian parliamentarians visit Taraskovya to have a talk directly with the representatives of the Veche. Such a visit could provide additional momentum to the growing relationship and also signal a new stage in Excalbian-Taraskovyan relations.

“Taraskovyan political circles have well established working relationships with, for example, their Knootian and Pantocratorian counterparts. Courtesy and working visits are not rare. In fact, not so long ago Lousewies van der Zaan reconciled two liberal Taraskovyan parties that were arguing over that Volkstaat issue. I believe it would be beneficial to establish a similar tradition with the Excalbians.”

“An excellent suggestion, Your Excellency,” Lady Christina said with a nod. “We could easily assembly a Senatorial delegation from the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Defence. Perhaps some from the Committee on Trade, as well. We would also welcome a return visit from members of the Veche.”

“Then I believe we have a plan of action set for the matters concerning the Treaty of Oosterbeek,” the Taraskovyan Minister said. “Now, Your Excellency, I believe we could pass on to other matters on our agenda.”

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

IMPERIAL DUMA PASSES RELIGIOUS RESTRICTIONS INTO REALM HANDS

By an overwhelming cross-party majority, with only the NPCA and the HLA voting against, the Imperial Duma has voted to repeal the “Imperial Statute on Religious Freedom” and to replace it with the “Imperial Statute on the Powers of Realms in matters of Religious Freedom”. Whilst the religious shift does not mean an immediate end to restrictions imposed upon the public and private worship of numerous cults and religious movements, it does signal a major evolution in Taraskovyan politics.

First and foremost, the public worship of such religions as Islam and Judaism shall no longer be a criminal offense throughout the Empire (exception made of Acarionne that has a special exception under the “Imperial Statute on the Acaronn Pale of Settlement”) as it was under the previous legislation. Instead, the new Imperial Statute foresees that the matters of “expression of religious freedom” shall be “administrative and civil” and shall be the competence of the Imperial Realms and Imperial Dominions. Or, in such cases where Dominions do not have sufficient legislative autonomy, they shall be decided by the competent authorities appointed by the Empire to run such Dominions.

Secondly, this means that in some of the more religiously tolerant Realms, restrictions are expected to be lifted. Amongst such Realms, whose delegations in the Veche have been amongst the lobbyists for the legal change, are Sortvala, Dreamreach, Atlantic Isles and Zoria. In other Realms only administrative fines are expected to become the worst punishment for offenders, even if the amounts of separate fines are expected to be quite hefty. New Gardarika and the seven Handalarian Lordships are expected to be amongst the Realms that are certain to keep the restrictions in place, even if in a new shape and form.

The new legal reform also eliminates a special ban of cults deemed “violent”. Instead, as per the new legal wording, such cults shall be prosecuted under the existing criminal laws that forbid violence against humans, sapient non-humans and sapient mechanoids from Zero-One, violence against the State, etc. The special ban on “violent cults” has often been considered redundant by legal experts and the news have already been welcomed by many in the Taraskovyan legal community.

Civil rights activists have welcomed the adoption of the new Statute by the Imperial Duma and, whilst some groups have deemed it falls short of the end goal to promote complete religious freedom, many see it is a step in the right direction. The “Battle for Religious Freedom” shall now be “fought” on the level of Realm politics.

The Imperial Senate is not expected to counter the Duma's decision and it is expected that the new legislation shall be adopted promptly, entering into force within the time frames set by the law to allow the Realms to adopt local legislation on the matter.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

IMPERIAL FAMILY TO VISIT PANTOCRATORIA

Their Most August Majesties the Vasilevs and the Vasilessa of all Taraskovya are expected to render both a formal and private visit to the Empire of Pantocratoria. This shall be the first such visit since the marriage between His Most August Majesty the Vasilevs Mikhail of all Taraskovya and Her Most August Majesty the Vasilessa Elena of all Taraskovya and especially since the birth of His Most August Highness the Vasilevitch Alexander of all Taraskovya, who shall also be visiting the birthplace of his mother.

The program of the visit includes both a formal and official part, as well as a private visit to the parents of Her Most August Majesty and to the grand parents of His Most August Highness.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

Imperial Tribunal: Ponies Can Be Turned Back, But Not For Being Ponies

The Imperial Tribunal, Taraskovya’s highest judicial instance (in practical terms, as of course His Most August Majesty is the final de jure instance in all matters legislative, executive and judicial), has yet again demonstrated its unsurpassable skill in all fields legalistic by handing down a ground shaking decision in principle, all while not really upsetting the established practice.

What happened

The matter goes back close to a year already when Allanea’s only walking-talking pony, by the name of Liberty Moon, was denied a visa by the Taraskovyan consular officials within Allanea. Mr. Moon desired to enter the Empire to “go skiing in the universe famous Cardinian Spine or something like that what they are called”. As is the usual case with Taraskovyan consular officials, little to no explanation is given in case of refusal, except the standard apology letter stating that “unfortunately the application did not fulfill the criteria for eligibility to be granted the specified period visa to enter the Taraskovyan Empire and the territory of her Realms and Dominions, with exception of the Sacred Citadel, the Handalarian Lordships , Southern Tavaroth and other such territories not covered under regular Imperial Entry Visa as per the Imperial Statute on the Single Imperial Visa Area & Special Territories”.

And as per the existing rules, the decision to decline visa issuance is not subject to any sort of appeal. Not discouraged in the least by this matter, Mr. Moon decided to use the fact that Allanean citizens may enter the Empire for a period of up to 48 hours without a visa by simply purchasing an 48 hours entry permit at an Imperial Point of Entry (any aerospace port will do, for example).

Unfortunately for Mr. Moon, she was denied entry without any explanation and had to spend the night at the capsule hotel in the transit area of the Kardarth International Aerospace Port, enjoying the scenic view of the mountains and slopes of the Cardinian Spine.

The Lawsuit

In a record time, Mr. Moon, acting through an accredited lawyer in the Central Cardinian Fiefdom, United Kingdom of Dakathia and Cardinia, filed a lawsuit with the Kardarth General First Instance Court against the decision of the Imperial Immigration & Customs Service for denying Mr. Moon entry, claiming compensation for moral tort and expenses incurred for the booking at the undisclosed hotel in the Cardinian mountains (booking could not be cancelled) and for fees suffered for staying at the capsule hotel in the Kardarth transit area.

The lawsuit was rejected in record time, as denial of entry by the Imperial Immigration & Customs Service cannot be appealed in court, unless the decision is based only on such arbitrary and discriminatory reasons as race, sex, religion or sexual orientation. Mr. Moon’s accredited lawyer, Maître Evgenij Vorobinskij, proceeded to file an appeal with the Central Cardinian Court of Appeals, the provincial-level appeals instance for the Fiefdom. Yet again, the appeal was rejected in record time as the 2nd instance supported the findings (one page long) of the 1st instance and did not delve on the appealer’s argument that the decision was made on discriminatory grounds because of Mr. Moon being a walking-talking pony.

Not discouraged, and clearly getting generous honoraries to keep going on despite what any lawyer would consider plain humiliation, Me Vorobinskij went to the High Tribunal for Appeals and Cassations of the United Kingdom of Dakathia and Cardinia, the Realm-level 3rd instance appeals court. Here the case lingered longer as the High Tribunal requested the deliberation and justification information pertaining to the ICS’s decision to deny entry, as well as of the MFA’s Consular Department’s decision to deny visa. Such information being confidential, the contents were not disclosed to the public and do not feature in the final verdict. However, whatever was there was sufficient for the High Tribunal to decide in the appealer’s favour, overturn the initial verdict and rule that the ICS owed the appealer judicial fees, lawyer’s honoraries and expenses to stay at the capsule hotel in Kardarth Aerospace International Airport. The judges declined moral tort, ruling there was none, and declined compensation for the lost booking at the undisclosed Cardinian mountain resort, citing that the appealer did not do everything in his power to cancel the booking, just “assuming” that he could not cancel.

Off to the Imperial Tribunal

This time it was the ICS, apparently riled by the decision, which went furthisand took the matter to the Imperial Tribunal. Where the case would be suspended for months as the Imperial Tribunal, although quite fast in the universal average of court deliberations, is still by far slower than the lower instance chambers throughout the Empire.

The Imperial Tribunal handed down a verdict in a wording that can be resumed as follows: walking-talking ponies can be denied entrance into the Empire for reasons other than them being walking-talking ponies, but not for reasons that they are walking-talking ponies. The judges reminded that with the “Sapiency reforms” passed in the Empire less than a decade ago, walking-talking ponies clearly qualify as “non-human sapient beings” and are, thus, entitled to the same “human rights” as “humans”. Moreover, with the passing of the “mechanoid sapiency reform”, even mechanoids from countries the Empire has establihed relations with are recognised as “mechanoid sapient beings”, leaving no ground at all to consider walking-talking ponies as anything else but “sapient beings”.

The Imperial Tribunal, without explicitly quoting the reason for denial, did rule that the reasoning was “discriminatory and arbitrary”. Not that the reason could not be guessed from the indirect references by the judges in the motivational part of the verdict (after all, as per the Taraskovyan legal tradition, verdicts always contain a motivational part which describes the deliberations and the reasoning of the judges, which sometimes makes individual verdicts huger than some libraries). In the rest, the judges upheld the decision of the 3rd instance court, rejected moral tort, ordered the ICS to pay for the judicial fees, lawyer’s honouraries and for the expenses at the Kardarth airport hotel.

The verdict, however, did not annul the decision per se and it will remain a thing for the future that walking-talking ponies cannot be denied entry because they are walking-talking ponies. Mr. Moon was not immediately available for comment, but it is understood that if he really wants to go skiing in the Cardinian Spine, he’ll have to come to the Empire again.

But some speculate that all of this was just an “elaborate troll” of the Taraskovyan Imperial authorities and that Mr. Moon will hoove off to other trolly pastures.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

HER IMPERIAL HIGHNESS THE GRAND DUCHESS VETHARA RESIGNS FROM THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY

Her Imperial Highness the Grand Duchess Vethara of Taraskovya has formally resigned her membership in the Conservative Party and the leadership role she had in the Duchy of Zoria's branch of the party, the Party's Secretariat has confirmed. The Lorelei Palace and the Conservative Party chancellery both issued mirroring statements by which HIH the Grand Duchess recognised the "nation building role" of the Conservative Party, whilst the Party leadership praised Her Imperial Highness for being "resolute, generous and a true leader in the eyes of the Taraskovyan People". HIH the Grand Duchess leaves the leadership of the Conservative Party in the Duchy of Zoria to Maxim Spiridonov, the Mayor of the city of Lorelei and a long time "second in command" of the local Conservative Party branch.

The move does not come as a surprise to many as the Grand Duchess, quite active in Imperial party politics, has been consistently distancing herself from the more right-wing policies of the Conservative Party. Political analysts will remember the hushed scandal that erupted amongst the Party ranks when HIH the Grand Duchess was seen as supporting the Constitutional Democratic Party, the Conservatives' liberal opponents on the Imperial level, in the local elections in the Duchy of Zoria. It was, in fact, expected that the Grand Duchess might "defect", if such a term can even be used, to the Constitutional Democrats, who will find in her a strong ally and a rallying point for many.

Some analysts speculate that the move could have been sanctioned at the "highest levels" to boost the positions of the Constitutional Democrats, staunchly pro-monarchy, to improve their positions on the political chess board and turn them from the third into the second most powerful Imperial political party, to the detriment of the Liberal Socialists who, whilst announcing their monarchist stance and adherence to social democratic values in a constitutional setting, are still viewed with quite some suspicion due to an important presence of republican radical leftists in their ranks.

[Tarasovka]

From the Empire’s Diaries:

* - * - *

His Most August Majesty to Travel to Neukiele for the League Hauptstadt Lottery

His Most August Majesty the Vasilevs of all Taraskovya is to travel to Nuekiele for the traditional yearly draw that will define the Antadammian League's capital for the next two years. Under the League Charter and the Suzerainty Pact which integrated the Angstian remnants into the Taraskovyan Empire, the seat of the League's Chancellery (the de facto capital known colloquially just as the Hauptstadt) changes every two years and the same city cannot hold the title for two draws after its term as the Hauptstadt ended.

The draw itself, colloquially simply referred to as the Hauptstadt Lottery, consists of ten wooden balls with the sigil of the candidate cities engraved onto them being put into a crystal bowl and then mixed in the best traditions of a lottery. His Most August Majesty, in his role as the Eternal Grand Master of the League, picks one of the balls at random from the bowl, thus signifying the next Hauptstadt. Whilst the ceremony itself only takes five minutes at most, the run up to the ceremony is a huge media show and entertainment, with broadcasters filling the run up to the ceremony with all sorts of event shows they can conjure.

This year, however, the draw will only consist of nine candidate cities. The Bidding Committee for the city of Thun withdrew its bid after the Committe's proposition for the ball to be drawn not by the Vasilevs, but by the Vasilessa dressed in a two pieces swim suit was "rejected in the most resolute and definite manner" and the Committee members themselves fined for Lèse-majesté.

The curious custom is also attracting more and more attention elsewhere in the Empire and has attracted some criticisms over the fact that moving the League Chancellery each time demands a financial effort. The reality, however, is that the League Chancellery itself is quite a small administrative and bureaucratic apparatus that handles the plethora of things entrusted to the Empire under the Suzerainty Pact, such as macroeconomic policies, customs, currency, recruitment (even if Angstians are freed from mandatory conscription, they still provide a wealth of volunteer servicemen), border control, defending Imperial interests and others. For most of the day to day business the Angstians are left to their own devices and the League has historically been known as one of the more liberal and open minded corners of the Taraskovyan Empire.