Sunalayan News {SUNALAYA ONLY!}

[Sunrisia]

Neo-Isolationist And Nationalist Demonstrations End

The streets around Sunrisia are clearing up of demonstrations. The Neo-Isolationists and the Nationalists are dispersing in the aftermath of a governmental transition. In the meantime, the government is actively back at work as President Dêc Grétân has held a meeting with incumbent members of the presidential cabinet. Following the meeting and a conversation with each administration official separately and with the cabinet overall in a group summit, President Grétân has confirmed that he intends to keep the same cabinet with the current officials in place. The current cabinet that will continue to work within the administration of President Dêc Grétân, was originally hand-picked by the previous head of state – President Nóv Fáustîtár. President Grétân said that his next planned meeting is a one-on-one with Minister of Finance and Economic Development Pârsīn Sîlvá to discuss the further stimuli of the Sunrisian economy. The current head of state said that his leadership intends to continue the success of President Fáustîtár in the economic policy and with the same administration and team still in charge, success in this promise is expected to be a realistic ambition. What would follow later, would be the President’s one-on-one longer meeting with other Ministers in the cabinet. After meeting all Ministers individually for discussions on advancement in all walks of life, President Dêc Grétân intends to address the Sunrisian Convet and hold some public rallies.

In other news:

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• President Dêc Grétân plans a first round of phone calls with the leaders of Creperia, Edereon and The Seven United.
  
  
• Prior to rehab, former President Nóv Fáustîtár prepares for his trip to Layfet, scheduled from Monday to Friday.
  
  
• Department of Security gives updates on drone strikes against drug cartels in parts of Corentia, forward deployed defense and deterrence posture in Pantorrum and Layfet and potential dispatching of ACREFOR to Zilveren Berg as a peacekeeping taskforce.

[Belantica]

Center City Times
Journalist Still "Up In Arms" Over Montedoran, Confidence In Belantic-SU Relations Dropping
For the past month or so, it is clear that the Seven United is using it's powers to suppress any negative press or anti-union press regarding Montedoran. During that time, many journalists and officials in the Uinted Queendoms have stated their concerns and complaints on Michelle Ahina's mishandling of their crisis and blppantant suppression of opposing media, labeling these groups as "terrorist media outlets" and shutting down these forms of media. This has caused not only for many journalists, including the top journalist unions, to criticize these actions, but citizens within the SU have also dissented these actions. A major event in this is when several members of the central government have walked out of the chamber when debating. Ahina was present, according to local news sources, and many members of the government, notably the Alternate Liberals, the Democratic Party, and the Greens, walked out of the parliament building when addressing the issue of Montedoran to her, and being dismissed. It was also reported that Ahina attempted to harass members of the Alt Liberals the following day to attend another session, but they refused to show. At this poijnt in time, the Seven United has no functioning legislative body and a weakened central government. According to local laws, the government can continue operating for a short time with no parliament, but is not feasible long term. Without their parliament, more responsibilities are shifted to Ahina's Central Commission, however there is plans to hold elections.

In Belantica, many are seeing this negatively. The Queen said that it shows "a lack of a conscious within their government, that has blown an issue that could have been resolved months ago out of proportion." Futhermore, many journalist unions and organizations are looking into ways to find a solution to the media problem, while not speaking highly of within their communities. Protests have also started outside of the SU's embassy in Belantica, many carrying signs relation to Montedoran, the parliament issue, and depiction of Ahina as the Dasmarian dictator that ruled during World War II, demanding that the SU's governmkent backs down and stop the unfair persecution. Even then, economists are worried that these events will have a severe impact on Belantic-SU trade. Currently, Belantica's economy is in a fragile state, as it is rebuilding formaer outside connections, while the stock market in the SU continues to fall. "The numbers are not good," said one economist at the ACSE, "and because of the political problems in the Seven United, this may effect how Belantic companies conduct business with them, which not only would affect their economy, but would have effect on the Belantic economy, as we're are still it a state where our own economy faulted after the Uprising, which set us back roughly 10 years in progress. What this could mean is because of our own economic issues, and how connected we are with trading partners worldwide, could cause a much larger global economic stagnation, or faltering."

In Other News
-Trouble between Chemensia and Yosija once again
-Isolationists winning in Sunrisia? With protests ending there, it certainly seems so
-2 killed when a box truck was struck by a BR regional train at the infamous "Dead Man's Crossing". Efforts are underway locally to build a safer route
-Hybrids, EVs, autonomous technology, concepts, and the new L-300 were the stars at this year's Montego International Auto Show
-Great Northern Bridge is a go! Queen Karen signed the bill into law, starting the nation's largest bridge project ever planned with an intensive environmental review for the proposed route
-Center City Senators smashed Albany City Jets 6-3 in the Crosstown Classic game/Fairton Green Sox wins 2-1 against Montego

[Dirkhizistan]

Dirkhiz Missile Defense System intercepts nearly 50 missiles aimed at Rombad, Dirkhizistan.

Missile defense system launching outside Rombad at 2:51 AM

Last night Zarani terrorists launched 46 missiles over Azarah to strike Rombad, southwest Dirkhizistan. The missiles were targeting Rombad Airbase and other military posts in and around Rombad. Zarani supported terror group The Islamists of SW Azarah (ISWA) reportedly fired the missiles from a terrorist base in NE Zaran at around 2:44 AM. The missiles flew over Yezriya and where shot down my Dirkhiz Missile Defense Systems over eastern Parcea near the border with Dirkhizistan. The military was alerted that nearly 50 missiles were being launched at Rombad, sirens went off in Rombad telling citizens to take shelter, the defense system then fired 50 anti-missile rockets into the air from their Rombad sector base, the rockets flew over the border into Parcea then successfully shot down all 46 missiles. The Dirkhiz military said that Zaran will never penetrate Dirkhizistan with their missile defense system. This is the first time the missile system was used in battle. Dirkhizistan's missiles have been successful in destroying targets in Zaran. The Zarani and Dirkhiz airforce have not entered a battle with eachother yet. Dirkhizistan plans on attacking the city of Kalora, on the Zarani shoreline soon, the Zarani navy has lost nearly 15 ships while Dirkhizistan has only lost 3, and Dirkhizistan sees victory against their small navy soon and the naval assault on Kalora is soon.

In other news:
Sinyrus sends soldiers to Dirkhizistan to prepare for invasion of Zaran

Dirkhiz terror cell busted in Esena

Skirmish on the Chemensia-Yosija border

President Mugharz leaked tape says he called Sunalaya's monarchs "utter trash"

Nationalists in Sunrisia

lol grammar

[Rhodevus]

Rhodeve Hockey League Semi-Finals Day 1

Welcome to Day 1 of the RHL Semi-Finals! Today saw all four semifinalist teams face off in their first out-of-three games.

Acadia Redbacks vs Fallow Hills Geese in Fallow Hills (1-0)
Arynia Moose Riders vs Santos Sea Otters in Santos (1-4)

Tomorrow will see another full day of hockey and a potential for Acadia and Santos to reach the finals a game early

[Rhodevus]

United Layfet to Join Commonwealth


Speaker of the House Armin Blee with first chosen representative from United Layfet

With a vote 68 to 3 in favour, the Democratic Republic of United Layfet has been approved to join the Rhodeve Commonwealth. Starting March 1 of this year, 5 representatives for the country will be invited to Port Joy, Rhodevus, the capital of the Commonwealth and location of the Commonwealth Senate to begin participating in discussions and votes. This date will also mark the start of the one year probationary period for United Layfet before becoming a full fledged member. Queen Diana will be flying down to Port Joy in two days to sign the official Declaration of Intent for the United Layfet.

In a press statement, Speaker of the House Armin Blee said, "We are so glad to see the Democratic Republic of United Layfet taking the next step to join the Commonwealth. As a long time observer, the [United Layfet] has become a welcome presence at meetings and discussions. We are grateful for them to join as well as excited to see what this will bring to all member countries in the future."

[Imperium of Awathia]

Imperial National News

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Imperial Air Force Unveils Silent Arrow Interceptor

Official Photographs of the Silent Arrow Interceptor

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Hello, and welcome to Imperial National News, your one and only source of news within the Imperium. Today marks a great day for our great nation, as the minds of the Air Force and its R&D Division are now on the brink of creating the single most advanced, and fastest, combat aircraft ever fielded by the Imperium, and possibly throughout the world. Today Imperial Aeronautics unveiled its new ASL-65 Silent Arrow Interceptor, which has received an order for forty five aircraft. The Interceptor is extremely fast, with an official maximum Speed of 3,405 miles per hour, and equipped with four internal hard points, meant to carry the new AIAM-108 Supersinic Long Range Air to Air Missile, which combined with the radar aboard the ASL-65, has an official range of 16.5 kilometers, and equipped with both radar and infrared guidence systems. The Air Force has stated that the aircraft has been brought into service in light of the recent increase in aerial attacks throughout the world, and the ASL-65 is the newest counter to this new threat

[Cynthus]

Institutum Cras Viridi Completes 2-Decade Long Project: The City of Novae Spes

Other News

• Layfet to join Commonwealth
• Cynthus preparing for Caristia Celebrations
• Senatus Cynthanus to vote on controversial circumcision bill

Cyntha City Just 60 km to the east of Cyntha City the Institutum Cras Viridi (ICV) has officially finished its 2-decade long project, known as Project Aeternum - ICV aimed to create what they have called "the city of tomorrow." ICV is one of the Cynthan Kingdom's top scientific institutes, and since it's creation in 1962 has driven technological research in the nation. It's four divisions, Partitio Lichenologicae (Division Bioscience), Partitio Machinalis (Division Engineering), Partitio Provectus Systemata (Division Advanced Systems), and Partitio Aedificatoria (Division Architecture) have worked together to achieve the ICV's Motto: Ad Orbem per Technicam (The World through Science).

Under acting director Servius Vitellius Albinus, who took the Directorship in 1983, the ICV would begin to make its impact on the nation. New technologies were developed for public use, all with the aims and goals of the ICV, to improve the living condition of all through science. This reached it's height in 1995 when Servius Vitellius announced the ICV had received government permission to begin Project Aeternum, which the ICV described as "all of their research, development and technologies being brought together." In 1997 they announced Project Aeternum was the construction of a new city, 60 km to the East of Cyntha City. In August of that year the project began.

The city, which the ICV frequently called it's "city of tomorrow" was meant to showcase their vision of what cities will look like in the future. Servius Vitellius stated that it was his intentions to show how a city designed like this could function, in hopes soon older pre-existing cities would soon start to build in this manner. Unfortunately, Director Servius Vitellius would not live to see his project completed, as he died in his sleep in 2009. His daughter, Numeria Vitellius Macula, would succeed him after the ICV voted her as director. She had been a part of the Division Bioscience since 1998 and it's Head since 2006. She would see her father's dream come true.

In 2017 a nation-wide competition was held to name the ICV's city. After 97,000 votes were registered, Novae Spes (New Hope) was selected out of the list of ten names. The second most common name voted for was Civitas Servilius in honour of the late Dr. Servius Vitellius. With a name selected, it was time to finally unveil the ICV's hard work, and Novae Spes was opened to public viewing in August of 2017 for two days with a special viewing for the media and the Rex Cynthanum, King Constantius IX, himself. The city, entirely self-sufficient for power and food, combined many ecological elements with what has been described as "a futurist feel." Water and waterfalls run through the city's buildings, often beneath walkways that are clear. Grass, trees and other plants break up the clean feel of the building's walkways. The buildings are organised in logical fashion, with shops being in one building, apartments in another, offices in another, maintenance facilities in another and so on. The buildings are all connected from the ground level with external walkways, dotted with benches and trees and from upper levels with bridges between the buildings.

Novae Spes is ran entirely on green energy, with solar panels built in to the buildings and external walkways while the Science Building contains entire floors dedicated to growing food with the use of the ICV's newest indoor vertical farming technologies. The city boasts the ability to house up to 10,000 people at present, with the ability to expand easily. Applications for Residency began in August of 2017 after it's public viewing. The ICV stated it received 13,689 applications in the first month and "thousands of more afterwards." Those fortunate enough to have been selected as the first wave of residents, numbering 8,000 (with 1,500 employees and their families making the total first wave being 9,500) were given a move in date of 20 February 2018. These first residents have began to move into their new city, their new life and their new future.

The Project was considered costly, but Ms. Numeria Vitellius said that Project Aeternum was "worth the costs to the ICV," and continued to say "we expect the costs to be remade within ten years." Numeria Vitellius has stated that she believes the project will prove to be a major success and that within a decade cities around the country will be using Project Aeternum's plans to construct new neighbourhoods as they expand, due to their ability to be self-sufficient and taking up less space than conventional building plans, and that within two decades cities will be replacing older neighbourhoods using Project Aeternum's plans. She said a city the size of the nation's capital, Cyntha, could be made 3/4ths smaller than it's current size as Project Aeternum's plans allow for more condensed building, instead of building out for expansion like currently done.

[Rhodevus]

Rhodeve Hockey League Semi-Finals Day 2

With two more games played today, the semi finals are nearly complete.

Acadia Redbacks vs Fallow Hills Geese in Acadia (2-1) OT
Arynia Moose Riders vs Santos Sea Otters in (3-0)

The Acadia Redbacks have made it into the finals. A single game stands between Santos or Arynia joining the Acadians in the finals of the RHL.

[Shastara]

By Adam Hawthorne

I would first off like to apologise to the SBC audience as I failed to send these separate articles on their scheduled dates, however here we are at last with “This Day in History” for the 14th, 17th, & 18th, of February.

On February 14th, 1946 Nanaimo officially becomes fourth state of the Dominion. 16th First Minister Charles A. Banks signed the bill allowing the former Pantorran colony into Shastara at 9:02 am. After signing First Minister Banks said he felt “very highly privileged and honored” to welcome the first state into the Dominion in the 106 years since the state of Willamette came into existence in 1840. Nanaimo is primarily made up of the northern Aldridge Range which jets out into the northern Centismar sea in the Surry Peninsula. It is the second least populated state in Shastara with a population of roughly four million people, primarily in the Clacaster metro area and in smaller communities scattered along the coast. It is also home to Mount Russell the nation's tallest mountain at a titanic 20,310 feet. After the Pantorran surrender in World War II, Shastara gained the rights to the entire eastern portion of the island which was made into the states of Nanaimo, Tillamook, Feylara, and parts of eastern Centrallia.

On February 17th, 1911 6th First Minister of Shastara William Paine Lord dies at age 71 in Port Clementine, Multnomah. Born to Nancy and Nathaniel Lord on July 20th, 1838, William attended Whitworth University in his home state of Osborne until graduating in 1866. He then signed into the military serving postings in Fort Alameda in Clementine Bay. Later he returned to Osborne to become a lawyer in 1870. He then rose to the position of Justice for the Osborne Supreme Court where he developed a reputation as the most competent jurist in state history. His popularity helped him win the 1889 elections becoming the 6th First Minister on January 5th 1890. He immediately set out to eliminate corruption from land exploiters in the east and to support higher education. However he would lose the 1894 election to the disgraced Thomas McInnes. Later in life First Minister Lord would retire to Port Clementine where he would die of old age on February 17th, 1911.

Finally we come to the most unpleasant event in this article, the arrest of Shastara’s most famous serial killer: Howard Leon Shelton. Born on February 18th, 1949 in Sapphire City, Centrallia. Shelton and his family moved to a run down area in Evergreen. After barely graduating high school he volunteered in the Crusaders of Origin, a volunteer army of Shastarans who served in the Iron Archipelago Civil War. After returning he got a job as a self employed river fisherman on the Gibson River. He was married three times and was a fanatic follower of Origin however oddly he was a frequent customer of prostitutes. His murders began in 1982 when runaways and prostitution began to disappear along State Highway 6 near the southwest Osborne/Multnomah border.He would often take the women to his home and strangle them and leave their bodies to float down the Gibson river. He would avoid capture until oddly enough on his 52nd birthday on February 18th, 2001. Assisted with new DNA technology investigators found that he had murdered 48 women over the course of 18 years, however in a 2013 interview with SBC News he claimed to have murdered anywheres from 75 to 90 women, however there is no confirmation from authorities if this is true or not. He is currently serving multiple life sentences in Yakima County Prison in Willamette.

[The Seven United]

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Soldurs Des depose of Michelle Ahina / IRGOS looms on bankruptcy

The Soldurs Des committee and council today met with each other in the party headquarters in Aygon, under the guise that it was going to be on the economy and how to prevent the shockwaves from around the world from hitting the Union. However, coming out it was not this at all and the ruse was only to prevent Ahina and "her cronies" from hearing wind of the impending decision. In their musings, the Soldurs Des committee had decided to sack Ahina from the party, ousting her from the position of leader of Soldurs Des, excommunicating her from the party and office of Unitary Commissioner with immediate and sudden effect. Committee leader Montserrat Diegas came out of the Soldurs Des headquarters to announce this decision, with a shock reverberating throughout the Union.

"Reflecting on current policies, outside of the manifesto and without withstanding we have decided that it is best for the Union, the party and its supporters that we dismiss Michelle Ahina from her position as leader of the party, and ultimately Unitary Commissioner. We understand and with heavy heart that this a hard decision, was one that had to be made. Ahina is a strong woman, the strongest Commission we've seen perhaps often this has been to the detriment of the Union. In no place of our manifesto did it state that we would block regional elections on the ruse of terrorism, and that we would persecute individual media outlets due to their support for the independence of the Montedoran. It is with this, our heavy decision to dispose of Ahina as party leader will cause an election we understand it, though unfortunate as it is we can not continue on this path."

Murder on the dance floor? Ahina has been caught out of surprise completely even saying that she wasn't given any notice from her advisor's either, and has tweeted almost immediately after the decision: How reckless that without informing me or unitary Commission parliamentary members, that I shall be disposed of so quickly? I sense sour favours.

Under rules from the founding documents of the Union, this will cause a new snap Unitary election. The choice of date will have to be given to the speaker of the Unitary house whom has accepted the removal of Ahina as Commissioner, and has said it has immediate effect. The Alt Liberals have tweeted on their main tweeter that they welcome the decision, but believe that the party at its core is still rotten. The Democratic leader Jeuves D. Hueves had praised the party decision but revoked it with this statement:
"I'm happy with the decision of Soldurs Des to depose Ahina of her position as dictator. It is with great regret though that this is only a temporary up for the party in itself. They are still corrupt, half banker half lobbyist puppets. We won't want them back in again, and I am confident nobody else does either."

Ablija Hejkovic has welcomed the decision and has said that it should be the full imperative of the Unitary parliament and future Unitary governance that the Montedoran has a regional election, and is then allowed to leave the Union democratically like was once promised. Since the curfuffle, UNP has not been allowed to stand in any regional election in The Montedoran. If this will be overturned is up to the new government in the next Unitary election, which will be sooner rather than later says the Unitary speaker. Our political analyst Jevkat Armani have also gave his opinion today with this shock decision leaving tremors throughout the country. Jevkat said in his opinion of the events "It wasn't unforeseen. Yes, we didn't expect it to be so soon however this boycott and walk-out of parliament was the last straw for the Committee. What really is unexpected however is that Ahina did not or is acting like she did not see it coming, and this is certainly weird as she does still have quite a large amount of support inside the party now former support, of course as people now vy for promotions under any new leadership. The new leader is still unknown, could it be Montserrat? It is still unclear today with no clear signals from the party, and we will likely hear more tomorrow."

It has been quiet on the Ahina side, who was seen leaving Unitary parliament today to her home in Damsmar. She has yet to fully reveal her stance and if she accepts the decision of the party. The Unitary stock market (SEVUS) has taken an absolutely huge hit today dropping 6.5% in one trading day, the fastest in two decades not due to this issue in its self, but due to a much bigger financial issue that the 2nd largest investor bank and mortgage holder in The Union IRGOS, has documents leaked which were reportedly to be sent to the CEO Sebastian Sibestodo a few days ago. The documents reveal that the subprime mortgage market (the selling and buying of mortgages in The Union) is collapsing, as SevBank pulls out in their entirely selling the biggest batch. IRGOS has a huge market in subprime mortgages, holding millions of mortgages with high grades passed on by SevBank who announced yesterday that these mortgages are safe. Dismissing a property market collapse too, which was to the Financial Insidors dismay. The Financial Insider documented that the trade in unregulated subprime mortgages would eventually collapse the economy, and has been warning for years that the property and mortgage market has been the least regulated in The Union for many governments at a time. Something "overlooked" by many preceding governments according to The Financial Insider.

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Currency: 1 Argent ARG ($A) = NS$0.71.5344

[Cynthus]

Young Singer From Ascrivium Named Imperial Singer

Other News

• Ahina Ousted from Political Party
• Cynthus preparing for Caristia Celebrations
• Day after opening, ICV announces expansion plans for Novae Spes

Cyntha City Marcus Aurelius Aquilinus made his debut with the Cyntha City Opera Company at the age of 16, 8 years ago. Aurelius Aquilinus has since made waves throughout Cynthus with many hailing his voice as being "the best operatic voice of today anywhere." People have travelled from around the world to hear his enchanting countertenor voice sing some of the world's most famous pieces of Opera. When he made his debut this very news establishment, Ephemeris, called him a rising star to watch for - and those early predictions have proven most true. Last year he made his first international tour, travelling to 7 different countries for performances. Yet, in the middle of these performances he was summoned by His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor Constantius IX. A summons from the Imperial Court of the Emperor of the Eastern Romaleusian Empire, more commonly known as Cynthus today, is no small matter for anyone. But in recent years appearances and audiences with the Imperator Cynthae has been limited, due to the age of the Emperor.

It was quickly revealed that Aurelius Aquilinus had been summoned by request to perform for the Emperor's 94th birthday. In a statement made by the Domus Augusti - the royal Palace - stated that His Imperial Majesty had heard of the famed singer and had requested to hear a performance by him for his birthday. Marcus Aurelius Aquilinus could not refuse such a request, not because he was bound to - but because performing for the Emperor and his family, as well as many of the top members of society who would be present is often a once in a life time opportunity. Aurelius Aquilinus performed in the Domus Augusti gardens before the entire Imperial Family, members of the oldest aristocratic families, and several important politicians from the Senatus Cynthanus.

In an interview he would do later, Aurelius Aquilinus stated he had never felt more nervous before in his life. "It was a tremendous honour, an honour I will never forget. But I was nervous throughout the entire performance. All I could think of was who I was performing for." The young man from a small tourist town had risen high enough to perform for one of the most important men in Cynthus. Those who were present for Aurelius Aquilinus' performance in the Domus Augusti's Gardens would recall it as being one of the most beautiful performances the Opera Singer has done. Consul Gaius Aurelius Crispinus, who is from the same gens (a collection of families) as both are Aurelii, was in attendance in the performance. The Consul stated it was one of the most inspired performances he had seen to date.

With such high praise from the highest members of Cynthan society, it is no wonder that Aurelius Aquilinus' popularity exploded even more. Stores sold out of his CD, downloads of his songs skyrocketed, and he was at the top of the charts in Cynthus for 9 weeks straight, outperforming many contemporary singers. In December of 2017 he won an Aureum Orbis, the award given out at the Annual Aureum Orbis Awards, Cynthus' most prestigious music awards ceremony. But his awards did not stop there, in January of this year the singer who thought he had it all received a second summons from the Domus Augusti for the 21st of February, the birthday of Prince Gaius - the Emperor's eldest son. Many quickly speculated he was being summoned to perform at his birthday, but it was later revealed that the Emperor had summoned him to award him the honorary title of Musician of the Imperial Court. Once a title given regularly to the Emperor's favourite song, the last Imperial Court Musician died in 1997. The title has not been given to anyone since then, with many speculating it is due to the Emperor disliking modern music. This prestige, bestowed upon him today, serves as imperial recognition for his immense musical talents and abilities, and will be his official title for the remainder of his life.

[United Layfet]

Nordipolica World

Layfet, the Commonwealth, and the last few days of a Ministership

NORDIPOLICA - February 21st, 2018
By John C. Malcom, Editor of the Nordipolica World

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Executive Minister Edmond Dantes announced a week ago that he will resign the Ministership on March 1st following the diagnosis of cancer for his wife - Vanessa, bet before his departure, the Minister is wrapping up loose ends and finalizing commitments he made throughout the last 13 years of Ministership, a record to be sure, as the last Minister to serve the Layfetian people this long was Executive Minister Evelyn L. Hall in the early 1900s.

Ever since the announcement of his resignation, Dantes has not slown down on his duties as the EM, attending state dinners for example with former Sunrisian President Nóv Fáustîtár and most notably pushing for Layfet's inclusion into the Commonwealth. His legacy, ever since being elected in 2005, has been a great one. He push for greater equality and representation of women and minorities in government, spearheaded the Green Layfet Program that will accomplish its goal of making Layfet run on entirely green energy this year. He forged bilateral agreements that helped build better relationships with nations like Rhodevus, Ophioneus, Sunrisia, Rezua, and Pantorrum, not to mention his accomplishments in creating the United Intelligence Network and keeping old alliances strong with Kohharu, Kiez, and Makenzie and Athabaska. Dantes has also been instrumental in upgrading Layfet's infrastructure, redesigning Layfet's entire economy from a struggling social-capitalist nation into a mostly automated service commune economy, instituting necessary reforms like Universal Healthcare and increased and expanded access to education, increasing funding for science and pushing Layfet to the stars while also decreasing the use of an aging military.

Dantes' speeches and messages about hope and the will to continue to progress as a society and the audacity to say that even small nations and a few bright people can change the world have inspired millions in and outside Layfet. Dantes's legacy will be a great one and he will be remembered as not only one of the best Executive Ministers Layfet has ever had, but a world leader to dedicated himself to a higher cause above his own country.

With Layfet's introduction into the Commonwealth, incoming Executive Minister Susan Polster has said that she plans to eventually appoint Dantes has a representative to the Commonwealth, after a long break so that he can take time off to attend to his dying wife. Polster has stated that she will continue to live up to Dantes' legacy and strive forward to continue to create a better world like he has.

Congress will on March 3rd give Dantes the Congressional Medal of Honor as well as the Congressional Medal of Thanks for his service to the country, and Polster has stated she will give Dantes the Executive Medal of Honor and a ceremonial Layfetian sword. Who know what other honors Dantes will receive from the international community. There is also a bill in congress to build the Executive Minister Edmond Dantes Memorial in Nordipolica and Dantes himself has reveled that his Executive Ministership Library will be located at the University of Southern Layfet in Layfet City. No matter what though, Edmond Dantes will be a name long remembered in Layfet for times to come.

IN OTHER NEWS
Neo-Isolationist And Nationalist Demonstrations End in Sunrisia

Belantic-SU Relations fall apart

The City of Novae Spes in Cynthus is completed

Layfetian space probe Intercepter 2 to be launched April 9th

Layfet-Sunrisia Friendship Garden opens

SU dismisses party leader

Nordipolica International Aiport opens new terminal

"Little Layfet" Military Base in Hart Point set to close

capital of the Nina Islands territory - Silimon overtakes Estherton as fastest growing Layfetian city

[Cynthus]

Senatus Cynthanus Votes Yea To Circumcision Bill

Other News

• TBD

Cyntha City Senators from across Cynthus have gathered today in the Curia Constantia, the Senate Building built in 1786 to replace the Curia Maximus - built in 986, which replaced the Curia Julia, which replaced the Curia Gnaeus, which had in turn replaced the original building, the Curia Victoria. In these ancient halls of Curia the laws of Cynthus have been debated, voted and repealed for over 2,000 years. Today was no exception, though the law in debate has resulted in heated debates across the Cynthan Regnum.

But this debate has been ongoing for nearly as long as Cynthus has existed. It started with Emperor Julianus II, who reigned from 187 AD to 206 AD. Julianus is said to have visited a local Jewish Population near the town of Ascrivium while on a tour of the Empire. It was here that he witnessed a boy being circumcised in accordance to the Jewish practice, an act that appalled the Emperor. “A savage act of brutality, the torture and mutilation of a boy not yet a month old” he would later reflect in his “Writings of Julianus.” At this time, very few Cynthans would be familiar with how a circumcision was performed, with only the small Jewish minority practicing it. After witnessing it, however, Julianus outlawed the practice for all citizens of Cynthus in 198 AD. This Prohibition would become known as the Julianus Ban.

The Julianus Ban would remain law throughout the Cynthan Empire until the reign of his grandson, Julianus III. He would repeal the law in 263 AD, due to the pressures of the Senatus Cynthanus who feared revolt and treason were spreading through the Cynthan Jews. This fear proved right as the Jewish Revolts of 264 AD proved that many had been planning the operation for several years. In spite of the Julianus Ban’s repeal many of the revolt’s supporters continued with their plans as retaliation for discrimination for 65 years, a period when many Jews were arrested after having been caught performing circumcisions illegally.

The repeal of the ban would not be permanent however. In 413 AD the Julianus Ban would once again become law in Cynthus. This time, however, by decree of Emperor Constantius I. However, even amongst non-Jewish Cynthans this decree proved unpopular. In 413 AD Constantius was an elderly man of 76 and is believed to have suffered several major strokes throughout the year. Most historians now believe, as was the common belief at the time, that his wife, the Empress Tertinia, was using her husband’s name to run the nation. Upon his death in 414 AD, his cousin who succeeded him, Emperor Julanus VI, repealed the decree.

Senators continue to wear the traditional toga during meetings of the Senate

But, Cynthus’ history with this topic does not end there. King Constantius III, who ruled from 703 to his death in 768. Fearing the rise and spread of Islam, Constantius III decreed that circumcision would be banned for all citizens of his realm, as the practice was common amongst Muslims. But it went a step further, anyone suspected of being a Muslim was subject to a search by guards to verify if they were or were not circumcised. This resulted in thousands of Jews being identified as enemies of the state.

Constantius III’s decree, however, was the law until 1732. 286 years later and Cynthus once again debates circumcision. The Bill was introduced into the Senatus Cynthanus in October of 2017 and has been heavily debated by not only the Senate, but by the nation at large. The Bill is considered the sister bill to a law passed in 2015 which decreed female circumcision is genital mutilation and prohibited its practice anywhere within the territories of the Cynthan Kingdom. Similarly, this bill would decree that male circumcision is also genital mutilation when not done with the consent of the person it is being performed on, and only permits it to be done for medical reasons.

The bill was proposed by Senator Tiberius Annaeus Vetus, an important member of the Optimates - one of the two largest factions in the Senate since its creation over 2 millenium ago. Ti. Annaeus Vetus has spoken passionately about this bill since he introduced it to the Senate several months ago, and has even gone to several cities to campaign for popular support. In his words, “the mutilation of a child is unthinkable. We squirm in agony when we think of female circumcision, but so many have come to view male circumcision as normal for some sects of society. We’ve created a double standard in our nation.” Senator Tiberius Vibius Nepos, however, has also launched his own campaigns against the bill. Ti. Vibius Nepos is a member of the opposing major faction in the Senate, the Populares. He has stated if the bill is passed, Cynthus is only one step away from reintroducing laws permitting guards to ‘search’ men to see if they are or are not circumcised, and the persecution of Jewish and Muslim men who do perform it. Ti. Annaeus Vetus, however, has stated that is not his intentions, but only wishes to see genital mutilation in all forms stopped.

Despite both Senator’s campaigns the bill has continued to be controversial throughout the nation, with many people taking one side. The vote was held today in the Senate, and proved that just like the population of Cynthus, the Senatus Cynthanus was also split, nearly 50/50. The bill was passed into law by 2 votes, with the total being 252 to 248, making it one of the closest votes in Senate history. In comparison, the Bill outlawing female circumcision was passed with 379 votes yes. With its passage today, all circumcisions are now banned, starting on the 23nd of February, with the exception of medical circumcisions. The law does not permit men suspected of being circumcised after this date to be searched, but does allow a fine of up to 1,500 Aurei for those caught performing circumcision up to three times, the fourth allows for a fine of up to 15,000 Aurei or 6 months in prison. Ti. Vibius Nepos has promised he will continue to campaign against it, with hopes another vote will be held to repeal the law.

[Creperia]

NATIONAL NEWS NETWORK

President Karr Gaudēl tours Creperian autonomies

Creperian President Karr Gaudēl has set out to visit all 4 of Creperia’s autonomous regions

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Aurona, Faxina, Lumena and Miraya are the destinations that President of Creperia Karr Gaudēl has set out to fully tour. The national leader said that it would be more than just meeting with the autonomous leaders of every region, but a full tour throughout those regions. It would be an equivalent of making a full state visit to another country. The President wants to meet the autonomous government officials, the representatives of local police and military, workers of local judiciaries, the common people from all walks of life and social groups. It will definitely be a long tour, but it is something that the President is prepared for and excited about, as he had said personally. The Creperian leader says that he is motivated by personal interest in the regions and also wants to promote warmth and unity among Creperians, so that the autonomous statuses among different regions to not become a symbol of separation. The first logical intended stop is the Autonomous Community of Miraya, because this is the region that hosts Creperian capital city Miraya where the Creperian government is based. The President said not to worry about his long tour because he will be available from any spot that he will be in at that moment. Also, the head of state hinted that since Creperia is a parliamentary republic now, the state apparatus will continue running because the National Assembly will continue the work.

[Rhodevus]

This Day in History

Today, February 22, 2018 in Rhodeve history is an important day, both for the country as well as many other nations around the world. Today saw the passage of the Unified-Soldiering Bill; Bill 2484 through the Republican Congress in 1820. The proposal of the bill was to start using armies made up entirely of the colonists, natives and people from a single colonial holding, instead of mixing armies from multiple colonies as had been done in the past. The reasoning behind the bill was to improve the effectiveness of the attacking forces as this would bring about unit cohesion. The Bill was debated for 47 days before a vote took place in the House of the Republic; what is now known as the Imperial Palace and voted on, with 347 votes in favour and 93 votes opposed.

This bill has strong significance in Rhodeve and world history for two reasons. The first being that the man who drafted the bill and proposed it on the House floor was a 21 year old man who had entered politics and the political scene only a single year before. His name was Rubin Machin, the man who would one day be Rhodevus's first king. This bill shot him into the political spotlight, giving him multiple national and international contacts. This bill allowed him to start a very careful and mysterious path from politician, to senator to president and then to king.

The second reason was that due to this bill, colonists, natives and people from each colony began to find common ground and unity. Soldiers working together from a single colony began to see themselves less as an army of Rhodevus and more of an army from whatever colony they originated from. During many of their independence movements, especially during the Rhodeve Collapse from 1840-1845, soldiers from these armies were the ones trained and ready to unify and begin their newfound countries.

It can be estimated that this single bill decreased the lifespan of the 2nd Rhodeve Republic by about 40 years. Many believe that it was a power move made by Rubin Machin in order to start his path to leadership in the method he had desired. Others believe that it was a ploy to break the Forwards Party's control over the senate. Other still believe that Rubin Machin desired independence for the colonies, and thought this would be a good way to begin the process.

All that is conclusive, is that Bill 2484 revolutionized the Rhodeve military and brought about a new world in its aftermath.

[Engleberg]

ESA Records Major Crash in Rukonia


Image Caught of the Crash Site by the Schwarzritter-2 Satellite

Engelberg, Englean Kaiserreich -- While undergoing standard routine maintenance, the Schwarzritter-2 satellite caught a glimpse of what remained of a downed aircraft in North Rukonia. The image was caught at 13:50, Imperial Time, and was reported immediately to the Luftstreitkräfte who then reported the discovery to Rukonian officials. It is assumed that the crash occurred at about 11:30, as this complies with a report issued by the SMS Himmelstoss that a radar contact had been lost abruptly in the Ventismarian area. As of yet, it is unknown what the identity of the aircraft is and no nations have reported a missing flight. Currently North Rukonian officials have not reported the crashed aircraft, and it is assumed that it had occurred in an area with a small population. When questioned, the Abwehr stated that it had ruled out hostile actions as the cause of the aircraft's downfall after examining radar reports from the Himmelstoss. The Luftstreitkräfte has offered assistance to the Rukonian government for the examination of the wreckage, and it is not known if any other nations will be partaking.

In other news, the Reuss-Gera Expeditionary Army (Reuss-Gera Expeditionsstreitkräfte) celebrates its 300th anniversary of its founding today. The Reuss-Gera Expeditionary Army was created through the request of King Heinrich VI, who wished to create a national army for the Kingdom of Reuss-Gera. The request for a formal national army was denied by Kaiser Friedrich I, who viewed the idea of a such a force to be possibly treasonous. Instead, the Kaiser approved of an "expeditionary army" which would be permitted to operate in foreign lands through the employment of other nations. This force was the first to be approved in 1718, with the second being the Royal Expeditionary Force (Königlicher Expeditionsstreitkräfte) of the Kingdom of Schwarzburg that was approved in 1728. The force is celebrating the many victories it has accomplished through the employment of Rhodevus and Pantorrum, specifically. Currently the Expeditionary Forces of each State are officially part of the Kaiserliche-Heer, but are permitted to be employed by foreign nations in peacetime after approval of the Kaiser and the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht.

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[Shastara]

By Noah Damian

Willamette Representative Brendan Austin made headlines today after a interesting speech before the Lower Assembly today. The speech came during a debate over the fate of the nations marijuana industry. In an effort to make a point to his fellow members of the Pioneer Party, Representative Austin had this to say: “The hands off approach to the production of marijuana has lead to a booming industry, particularly in Willamette I might add, that would only be hindered by the regulations that Party Minister Hux would like to impose. Many pot shops wouldn’t be able to sustain themselves by keeping up with the new regulations and the industry would start to crash.”

Representative Austin then proceeded to pull out a rather large blunt from his suit pocket.

“Another issue I have with this bill are the ethics. Right here in my hand is a plant wrapped in paper. That's it. Yet nobody seems to be talking about the thousands of Native Shastans that are living in poverty, especially those in Willamette, Centrallia, Tillamook, and Nanaimo. Why are we discussing a plant over the suffering of people in our own country. So I think we should just sit back, chill out, and sort out our priorities.”

Mr. Austin then lit the blunt, inhaled, and then blew rings. Needless to say the internet has gone insane over this with very mixed reactions. While many are finding the stunt humorous and good intentioned many others are calling the stunt very unorthodox and disgraceful. Pioneer Party Minister Roland Hux came forward condemning Representative Austin saying:

“Mr. Austin’s blatant disrespect for the professionalism demanded in his position is an alarming sign that he cannot adequately represent the positions and values that the Pioneer Party represents.”

However the Code of Conduct for the members of the Assembly only prohibits that members of the Assembly cannot attend meetings if their THC levels are five nanograms or over. Mr. Austin did not have over five nanograms before or after his speech. The First Minister has not commented on the issue as of right now, and it seems that support for Minister Hux’s bill is waning in light of the speech.

[Rhodevus]

Rhodevus Hockey League Semi-Finals Day 3

The final game of the semi-finals took place today in Arynia. With an amazing game going into a shootout, Arynia Moose Riders won 3-2
This has placed them in the finals against the Acadia Redbacks.

Both teams will face off tomorrow in the 3 game finals to determine the champion for this year of the RHL.

Arynia Moose Riders vs Santos Sea Otters in Arynia (3-2) SO

[Sunrisia]

Convet Passes Second Republic Inauguration Resolution

Patriotic atmosphere has encompassed Sunrisia today, more so than usual. The ceremony of raising the flags of the Second Republic of Sunrisia and the Democratic Union of Sunrisia was held outside the parliament building, following a session where the Convet had voted on the Second Republic Inauguration Resolution. The resolution was a formal inauguration of the Second Republic of Sunrisia following the adoption of the Constitution of the Second Republic of Sunrisia some months ago. Sunrisian government buildings, institutions and private homes of citizens have been displaying the flags of the Second Republic and the Democratic Union jointly throughout the day in celebration of this formal inauguration. The streets of the largest cities once again saw Neo-Isolationists and Nationalists marching, yet this time it was in commemoration of today’s inaugural event and not a continued political demonstration like recently. Common citizens and representatives of the civil society held patriotism-themed demonstrations and events as well. Because of the cheerful mood, no desecration of the flags of historical Sunalayan empires has happened so far in demonstration of the traditional anti-colonial and evolving neo-isolationist attitudes. Sunrisian musicians have been performing for the masses throughout the day, having played the role of energizing the gathered crowds during important historical events when people took to the streets. Among other nice symbolic gestures, citizens have planted or displayed flags of the Democratic Union of Sunrisia in the regions where the border between North and South Sunrisia used to be during the partition period or the so-called Sunrisians Crisis, which is reluctantly not referred to as civil war because of the fortunate lack of actual open fighting after the break-up. Because the flag of the Democratic Union symbolizes revolution and reunification, it was a nice gesture and a nice display meant to emphasize the importance of the reunion between the two halves as a result of the Revolution of Rebirth. President Dêc Grétân has been especially active throughout the day, holding public rallies, speeches and interacting with common citizens on a close personal level.

[Enceladus-]

Enceladian soldiers arrive in Zaran

Military joins Dirkhiz and Sinyrusian forces in invasion

Orion A government statement released earlier today has confirmed that Enceladian forces have arrived in Zaran and begun operations against Zarani forces alongside Dirkhizistan and Sinyrus. Enceladian naval forces have joined in on the naval engagement outside of the city of Kalora. Many believe that an invasion of Kalora is imminent and will serve as the initial base of operations for the Enceladian soldiers in the area.

The naval battle outside of Kalora has been going on for several days now and is obviously in the favor of the Dirkhiz navy. The Dirkhiz forces have lost only three ships whereas the Zarani navy has lost more than 15, a huge blow to the already minuscule navy fielded by the rogue state. The government statement has confirmed that Enceladian naval assets have entered the battle and engaged enemy forces along the coast of Kalora. The statement also includes some vague information on future plans, most notably what many consider to be an invasion of Kalora.

Urban combat is historically and presently one of the deadliest combat settings in war. This is especially true in the modern era where cities are filled with strong several storied buildings. Buildings like these can provide great cover for defending forces, with soldiers using every door and window as a place to peek out and attack enemy soldiers in the street. The buildings are strong and will not fall easily, and if destroyed, may pose a greater problem than they were before, as the ruins provide more hiding spots for defenders and a barrier for attacking troops and vehicles. Mines and other explosive devices can be easily hidden in the street among rubble and heaps of trash, tearing apart both vehicles and troops who pass by. Local civilians can use their knowledge of both their buildings and the streets to their advantage and build impenetrable defenses. Their knowledge of the area provides a great advantage against the attacking troops, which along with the other factors previously listed, shows that urban conflict is a nightmare for attacking forces. However, the Zarani military is under equipped and not very well trained and according to government officials is far inferior to Dirkhiz, Sinyrusian, and Enceladian forces. According to Dirkhiz officials the battle for the city is not expected to take long and should be a simple operation.

[North Rukonia]

The Jaikan Bulletin

Plane Crashes Near St. Ava

Image of the unmarked, crashed plane. Both pilots were found dead, and there was no other crew onboard

A quiet little town with a population no bigger than 1,500 people had the national spotlight turned onto them yesterday, as mysterious plane crashed just 12 kilometers outside the town jurisdiction, and only 572 kilometers from St. Ava.

The plane was completely unmarked, and the pilots wore all grey clothing. Massive burn scars ravage both of their chests, erasing the possibility of seeing any logo.

There were no black boxes on the plane, in direct violation with international aviation law. There was, however, a system that monitored all of the aircrafts systems revealed that the crash was caused by an two engine failures on the left side of the wing. The Rukonian government will take up on the Englean Luftstreitkräfte offer to help with the investigation. No airline or country has reported a missing aircraft, and black SUV's were seen near the crash site.

Disease starts to spread near Rezuan border.

In the very same town that the plane almost obliterated, 107 people were admitted to the hospital at 2:00 pm today. Not much is known, save for that they all checked in one after another, showing signs of the flu.

The small hospital was overwhelmed, and many doctors and nurses had to be called back on duty. Some speculate that the plane crash and the disease are connected, but the people who claim those things are confirmed to be doomsday preppers and conspiracy theorists.

Other News

- Sam King caught drinking a Burgerville chocolate milkshake: "What? It's a damn good milkshake."

-Second Republic of Sunrisia formed, Sunrisians rejoice

-Shastaran politician smokes blunt in the middle of an assembly. "We would get on well," says Sam King

[Belantica]

Center City's New Giant Boring Machine "Boris"Arrives

Last night, a large boring machine arrived in Center City in the western harbor districts. Named "Boris" by a local grade school in the city, the new machine is currently resting in one piece inside an old drydock waiting to be dismantled to be delivered to site of the western bore entrance to the new Karen Pearson Expressway running from the west side of the city to the east, connecting with the new north-south Howard Narrows Tunnel, and several existing highways and arterial roads. Once completed, the KPE will be a total of 63 miles in length, with roughly 17 miles of that being underground, primarily underneath the dense urban areas within the metropolitan area. But despite its immense size, Boris will take it's time boring the new tunnels due to solid rock it has to bore through, with an estimated time of 7 years to bore both sections of the KPE. During the boring process, the Center City Transit Department will construct the above-ground sections of the expressway in order to keep the project from taking too long, which had previously slowed construction of highways in the capital area. Project director Gabe Quincy said that "My goal is to make sure this is done in a timely manner. I am aware that there can be complications during tunneling for both the KPE and Narrows tunnel projects in conjunction with our neighbor city of Albany. With that in mind, our intentions is to complete above-ground sections and to work on the interchange between the two tunnels as those are being bored." Boris will remain at the drydock for the next 3 weeks, with it being open to the public to view the immpressive machine before it's dismantled for transport to "ground zero" of the project, where it will be reassembled to begin work on the large multi-billion Mon project. Many say Boris will make a suface appearance in 2021 at the eastern portal for tunnel 1.

With that in mind, many say that such a highway project in the city is long overdue. "It's about time they put in another tunnel," said Maria Contenza, a resident in the city, "because roads in this city were poorly planned for the start, and never were designed with cars and trucks in mind until they started building the newer parts of town. Having this tunnel will pull away a lot of the traffic that all gathers onto Union Boulevard, and put it all underground so I don't have to see it looking out from my highrise." But not everyone likes this, advocates calling for the expansion of CMATA (the operator of the subways, commuter rail, streetcars, and bus services in the capital area) and BR rail and subway services, calling the highway projects "a waste of time and money" and saying that "it could be put towards building new rapid transit lines in place of tolled highways. But not to worry, as many cities are also talking about expanding subway services to more areas, as the combined ridership of subways and trains is roughly the same as people driving in, out, and around the city.

In Other News
-Economists says that the United Queensdoms needs to "push harder" for more outside trade to avoid a looming crisis
-Michelle Ahina forced to resign- many in the media are rejoicing that her reign has ended
-Sunrisia passes resolution to solidify current government
-Mysterious plane crash in North Rukonia, as well as a disease outbreak
-Redesigned Marin Evader goes on sale after gaining high reviews and positive remarks during the auto show season for it's elegant but sporty styling
-Shastarian politician smokes a blunt in their parliament

[Rezua]

Doctors and Containment Agents Sent to Saint Ava, North Rukoniaa

Imperial news

With permission from the North Rukonian government doctors and trained professions are going to help Saint Ava treat infected people and contain the spread of the disease. They will bring the best counters against disease that is currently mobile and keep the sick in specialized quarantine tents. Southern Rezua was closed off to North Rukonia after one hundred and thirteen people were hospitalize in Rezua and one hundred and seven were hospitalized. The start of this disease could be linked to a crashed plane that many have held a weaponized disease. Parliament has promised to find who owned this weapon and bring them to the United Sunalayan Alliance Court for crimes against international law.


In Other News
-Sorilette Isles to be allowed to keep prostitution. However, no one under age twenty-one may engage in this activity as a customer or worker. Blue Party enraged at this decision, say it should be outlawed.
-New raptor dinosaur discovered in central Rezua, dubbed "Ariasaurs" for the Princess Aria.
-Rezuan police take 3 fatalities rescuing Malesti women from a prostitution ring. The ring had young girls enslaved with other women. Law enforcement blames rising instability due to Bohi-Malesti war. All sex trafficers involved were killed in the firefight.

[Daredland]

Government opts for a ‘soft’ blockade of secessionist regions

The State Council has decided to refrain from blockade actions against break-away regions controlled by secessionists. This refers to the Weniges Reich in the east and the Hasperan Republic in the west. This decision by the government was influenced by the humanitarian demonstrations on the streets of Daredland which insisted that blockading the Weniges Reich and the Hasperan Republic would make the people victims rather than the separatist leaderships or foreign occupants. The Daredi Konfoderaleswehr keeps the demarcation line with the Weniges Reich militarized and the military has set up bases and camps there, acting as border guards. The troops are also assisting Weniges defectors in crossing over into Daredland daily. The Hasperan secession was not an armed one and because of that the Daredi army has not pulled up to the Hasperan borders. The diplomatic communications between the Daredi government in Freihat and the Hasperan leadership remains on day-to-day basis. This is different from the communication with Weniges separatist leadership, since the Daredi government and the Weniges separatists only exchange calls when really needed.

Some Daredi officials and State Council members have proposed blockading both separatist regions because Daredland should not be feeding traitors or terrorists that are destroying the Confederacy. Daredland itself is in not a very good shape economically right now and relies on economic assistance from Sunrisia to sustain itself. These politicians insist that helping support separatists is like shooting yourself in the foot. These radical slogans helped inspire humanitarian protests on the streets in the first place. Many were afraid that the radical politicians might push forth a resolution in the State Council on blockading the Weniges Reich and the Hasperan Republic. The protests have helped influence the State Council into not going forward with such a decision, but the government is still intending a “soft” blockade against the secessionists. The State Council intends to vote on the “soft” blockade tomorrow, as explained by Chancellor Calvin Aigner.

“I might not agree with the radically-thinking politicians in the government, but people need to understand that we cannot maintain regular trade, funding and development of break-away regions that we do not control anymore. It would be the same as putting money in the pockets of separatists and terrorists that have declared us their enemy and are ready to fight us. Of course they would love that because they would be exploiting us yet acting outside the Confederacy. All those funds would likely be going into their personal pockets and nothing would be given to the people living under their takeover. We are not going to be acting militarily against them, especially against the Hasperan Republic because their secession was unarmed. With Weniges Reich there’s a different situation and your perfectly know what kind. Our militarily needs to be active in the east, but not in the west with the Hasperan Republic. We keep up contact through the set up diplomatic bridge. Since we want to influence reintegration of the seceded territories, we need to use the non-military measures available to us to achieve this. Which is why the State Council will vote on a “soft” blockade which will not threaten average civilians, but rather tie the hands of the people currently in control.”

In the same speech to the journalists, Chancellor Calvin Aigner has also called out The Seven United after the Daredi government has kept silence for a while. “I am shocked than an MDAA country could act the way The Seven United has. They have gone against all values that alliance upholds. They have been angry at us for not violently cracking down on separatists like they have in Montedoran because our appeasement of secessionists might affect separatism in their country. There might be some truth in that, but that gives them no right to try and influence processes in Daredland. They tried blockading the Weniges Reich which we accepted as military aid against the militants and foreign invaders at first. But after the government of The Seven United expressed anger over the fact that we have achieved peace with Weniges Reich and refused to militarily act against the Hasperan Republic, we took it negatively. What nation denounces diplomacy? After they have tried taking initiative into their own hands and blockading the Hasperan Republic, despite us having handled the situation, it was the last straw. Michelle Ahina was a blood-thirsty woman and now that she’s gone, I hope The Seven United will cool down a little bit and be a reasonable nation once more. Ahina actually reminded me of some of the radical politicians in our own government. It was them that influenced these protests on our streets.”

[Engleberg]

Outbreak Reported in North Rukonia, Kaiser Orders Quarantine Protocols for Northern Ventismarian Area


SMS Himmelstoss Outside of Rukonia

Engelberg, Englean Kaiserreich -- Following the recent discovery of a crash in North Rukonia, it has been identified that the aircraft had landed outside the city of St. Ava. The aircraft was confirmed to be unmarked, with no forms of identification discovered aboard. The bodies of two pilots was discovered at the crash site, but both were beyond the ability for recognition and any traces of emblems on their flight suits were not present. The Rukonian government has accepted the offer for assistance from the Luftstreitkräfte in investigating the site, however recent developments in the region have delayed their departure from the Kaiserreich.

In a surprising turn of events, the same small town where the aircraft crashed has been affected by a form of outbreak with nearly 107 people admitted into the hospital with flu-like symptoms. The outbreak has also reached neighbouring Rezua, who have reported 113 people hospitalised. Because of this, the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht has forbid the investigative team from travelling to North Rukonia. Instead, a joint cooperation between the Kaiserliche-Heer and the Abwehr has reactivated the Ventismarian Krankheitskontrollekorps. The Krankheitskontrollekorps is formally an organisation of the Kaiserliche-Heer, specialising in the defense against radiological, biological, and chemical weaponry. The commander, Generaloberst Maximilian von Jägerheim, M.D., has requested the cooperation from the Abwehr's Outbreak Control Center in this situation, citing "...the situation has a possibility of becoming a larger outbreak in Ventismar and possibly the world." This cooperative organisation will be deployed in North Rukonia, to assist the Rukonians with the control and investigation of this new disease. With Rezuan officials hypothesising the outbreak's connection to a biological weapon, the Krankheitskontrollekorps will be investigating the crash site and reporting any findings of such a weapon aboard the aircraft. When questioned by a foreign journalist on the possibility of an Englean connection to the weapon, Generaloberst von Jägerheim stated "The Englean Kaiserreich does not possess a biological weapon program, in accordance to the USA's banning of such weapons. Any connection to biological weapons are specifically for research into defending the Englean people against such weaponry to prevent a devastating outbreak in the Kaiserreich and the Imperial Republic of Longwrescheck." Currently the SMS Himmelstoss has been deployed outside of North Rukonia, for it possesses a biological lab aboard and is capable of housing infected patients for quarantine and vaccine research. In relation to this outbreak, Kaiser Siegfried has declared that all flights and marine traffic to Northern Ventismar have been banned to prevent the disease's spread to the Kaiserreich and Ventismar. Any vessel that has passengers displaying symptoms resembling the Rukonian disease will be ordered to divert course to the Gelbfieber Inseln where they may be quarantined. The Kaiser also strongly recommended neighbouring nations to take similar action, and has offered the Gelbfieber Inseln as a quarantine site for Belantica as well.

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