CORNELLIAN EMPIRE NEWS (closed, Region Only)

[Novitera]

The camera switches through a number of scenes displaying different scenes all over the world, stock price numbers, various Noviteran city skylines, sports teams at play and finally the Noviteran flag. A energetic instrumental tune plays throughout until the camera focuses on a man and woman in their 40s dressed impeccably.

"Good afternoon. I am Lance Natsu."

"I am Merril Dawson and this is the Noviteran News Network."

"Stock market jumps as it is announced that Gavinium Magnus has joined the CTO. Following that a vote by the National Directorate has passed to recognize King Lucian as the rightful sovereign of Gavinium Magnus." Merril stated.

The camera zooms to Mary Takeshi in the press briefing room of the Directorate. There are flashes as she speaks from a podium fitted with microphones.

"Expanding the CTO and free trade has always been a responsibility of our nation. We led the way for the creation of the CTO. We lead the way for capitalism. It is the obligation of this government to work closely with those regional rulers who wish to foster peace and economic cooperation for the purpose of mutual success for our peoples. That is what the CTO and our government stands for. It is clear now that is what King Lucian stands for as well. In good conscience, the National Directorate has decided to recognize King Lucian as the new and rightful sovereign of Gavinium Magnus. On behalf of the United Federation, I welcome Gavinium Magnus to the CTO and wish King Lucian a long and prosperous reign."

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

The Eagle's Cry

Shrailleeni News Unbiased
Serving the Children of the Mother Goddess and the Region

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Statement of Purpose: Founded on the principles of liberty, morality, and matriatism, the staff of the Eagle's Cry are dedicated to the principles of free speech and accessibility of information, except where this information could endanger the well-being of the Shrailleeni people. This news source will report to the Shrailleeni people and the region the true goings-on within the Shrailleeni Empire through foreign electronic and domestic printed mediums.

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International News
October, 1294 (2017)

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Deployments Planned for Kurungarra, Dengali

Imperial City - Sources from within the Shrailleeni government have confirmed rumors that six battlegroups have been called into mobilization for possible overseas deployment. Suspicions regarding a future deployment began circulating over the last several weeks as equipment, materiel, and personnel began moving quite publicly from military bases across the islands to important naval stations, leading to questions about the empire's motivations in creating such a mobilization. It has now been confirmed that there is a plan to conduct substantial military exercises in the Queendom of Kurungarra and in the Republic of Dengali.

Matriarchy of War officials have confirmed that six mechanized battlegroups are being prepared for transport, and that the Imperial Navy is being deployed for transportation and escort operations. The battlegroups in question will be the 1st through 6th mechanized, deploying mostly from bases in Home Island. A total of about 81,000 Shrailleeni will be involved in the mobilization.

Regarding the nature of the deployment, Matriarchy officials stated that the exercises are badly needed to bring Shrailleeni military forces into a state of readiness.

Radakat, Kurungarra

"The Enlightened Matriarchy is a peaceful country with a history of resolving serious conflict diplomatically. However, the increased involvement of the empire in the peacekeeping operations of the CPO has highlighted the need to maintain military forces that are experienced in modern deployment and operations. It is the belief of the Shrailleeni government that we cannot continue to successfully uphold our defensive and peacekeeping commitments to our allies and the region without increasing the readiness and experience of our armed forces.

Because the geography of the home islands is not conducive to large-scale military movements and not representative of the types of environments that Shrailleeni forces have increasingly been operating within, deployment to the Queendom of Kurungarra provides a much more ideal area for operations. The Republic of Dengali has also consented to the introduction of additional Shrailleeni forces in order to conduct joint military exercises and to share and develop mutual training and strategic techniques."

The Matriarchy of War went on to clarify that four of the battlegroups will be deployed to Kurungarra, while only two have been authorized to go to the Republic of Dengali. The deployments are planned to extend for about six months, after which time the battlegroups will be rotated back to the home islands. New battlegroups will then be deployed to Kurungarra to complete the training exercises, while future deployments to Dengali are subject to approval by the Dengali government.

These deployments are bound to put a strain on the affected families, for whom military service has typically meant that loved ones are not far removed from the home islands. But with the continued effects of the regional recession still being felt and military employment remaining a steady source of income for Shrailleeni families, there is not expected to be widespread discontent regarding the deployments.

[Republica De Gran Chaco]

[box]

El Tiempo

Chaco's Finest News Source

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SHOCKING NEWS OF BATTLE WITH NEW EDOM AS FOREIGN MINISTER RESIGNS!

Shocking developments today as the Minister of Foreign Affairs Pedro Samayani Picha has tendered his resignation. The announcement came at a small press conference that was held early this evening. The Minister read brief statement and then took questions. During one of the questions, the Minister mentioned the resignation of his deputy Xeina Ccallo, and also of a battle that is apparently going on in Ashab between the forces of the Republicans, and the Theology Council, but surprisingly also involving Chacano and Edomite forces. When asked to explain details, the Minister seemed to become hesitant and stated that he was no longer taking Questions.

When El Tiempe, followed up with the Ministry of Defense they stated that a battle was indeed happening, but that they could give no details at the time. They said that they would issue a press release at some time in the near future. The Prime Minister’s office gave a similar reply, and Mrs. Ccallo could not be reached for comment.

El Tiempo can only speculate what is happening, but it is possible that the Theology Council and the forces of New Edom have violated the Ashab truce, and that they may be attempting to resume the civil war of two years ago. Our journalists are doing their best to find more information, and we encourage our readers to check back at our website for possible updates as this story develops.

[Gavinium Nova]

The Royal Inquiry Online,
Dahlia Nouveau, Web Staff Writer

What is really going on with the Imperial Family in Ghant? Inquiring minds ask, do they not? Well, word from the Inperiala Palace strongly suggests a serious lack of domestic tranquility, indeed, a great disturbance in the whole harmony there. Why? Because Emperor Nathan IV has finally had it up to here with the meddling from his in-laws, such as his ruthless father-in-law, the ungrateful King Malibar of Dakmoor, who doesn't seem to care that his son-in-law pushed for him to regain crown privileges with the recent legislation to restore the local petty monarchies. Why hasn't the Emperor been seen in public with his lovely, admirable bride of so many years? Are they on the outs?

Well, word has it that her father's interference in the foreign policy of the realm and in her own marriage has greatly strained her relationship with her husband, so all is not paradise. Of course, some blame the Emperor's Roman concubine, or his reported Edomite lover (though we can't prove that such an Edomite lover actually exists, it's just speculation), or for that matter, the ugly gossip about the Empress's own indiscretions with a certain Prince-Ambassador from New Edom (you know, the one with the pet monkey). That's not even counting the rumored tryst between Queen Mara and Emperor Nathan, of course. Is she the Edomite mistress?

It wouldn't be the first time that Emperor Nathan IV bedded a very impolitic lover, such as when he reportedly slept with Princess Blanca of Free Garza, who is the widow of Brigadier General Perrin Pahath-Moab of New Edom (and now engaged to Prince Bryan of Nekulturnya), or the rumors that he also had a tryst with Blanca's elder sister Princess Rosa, who was at the time romantically tied to Prince Michael of Dakmoor (now married to Princess Jocasta Obed of New Edom, my, how these webs tangle and weave). There are also the rumors that a certain Delvian princess and former State President, who had once been mistress to Tsar Constantin III (now married, reportedly faithfully, to Tsarina Melissa Voor, originally of Gaemar, but is she faithful in return). Also, Nathan once courted Queen Helga of Free Garza, back when she was Princess Helga von Handelhoff of the Vorindun. Say what you will about King Diego IV of Free Garza, but at least his only known mistress is a relative nobody, the nurse Sandra Velasco. He crosses no political lines or boundaries with his affairs, creates no international incidents.

Not to mention that the Dakmarans keep pushing the Edomite encroachment on oil fields in Northern Ghant, much to the displeasure of the locals, whose natural resources are being stolen from them by the Crown and various Edomite contractors. Suffice it to say that the Ghantish Crown would do better to protect its oil from grubby Edomite hands and keep Imperium influences out of its court, not to mention rein in Dakmaran arrogance, rather than worrying about various usurpers challenging our lawful sovereign, King Lucian I of Gavinium Magnus. Then again, that wouldn't help the Edomite arms makers, would it? Or help the bloated ambitions for revanchist conquest of that orphan interloper, Emperor Titus of Rome, either. Nor the overweening imperialistic pipe dreams of the Shrailleeni, would it?

All in all, something is rotten in the state of Ghant, and the rot is spilling over into Garza and New Edom, wouldn't you say? Inquiring minds have cause to ask.

[The IASM]

OPINION — The Technocrat Prince

Within Akai, there remains only really one glimmer of hope for reform towards a direction away from its totalitarian status quo in the higher levels of Akai government and that is the Kwokmjinpha or the Kghuknunlhrah. The term roughly means National People Clique, and ultimately their main focuses lie with the people and the nation. The name is derived from a memorial to the throne where Kghuknunlhrah is brought up as a possible final reformation of government, “to complete the works of the Xionghe Ditu”. In reality, like most things in Akai politics this a faux flattery.

The Kghuknunlhrah ultimately desire several reforms in Akai society, which might actually bring it in a direction more palatable for anyone outside of the Imperium, Rome or New Edom. Its main goals are the institution of a government which does not engage in outrageous abuses and to instead formalise the supposed traditional duties and obligations which were supposed to have prevented the rise of someone like Jieke. Human rights in Akai have always been widely ignored ever since the death of Ditu Sojin, but it had become dramatically worse under Ditu Xionghe. His explicitly totalitarian Thastfung Reforms greatly modified the nature of the Akai state, making it nearly all-encompassing and having some degree of involvement in all life in Akai however subtle. Nearly every human right conceivable is violated in some way while the state remains centred around the institution of the monarchy, with the worship of the Ditu becoming mandatory across the nation. The Kghukunlhrah or KKH only exist in a non-official sense, its members frequently being fairly protected aristocrats or one or two corporate leaders. They try to avoid provoking the wrath of the state where possible, playing a long game.

To this end, they have continued in their subtle efforts to reshape the Akai state. In place of the current overgrown bureaucracy, they want a constitutionally restricted civil service which is under the control of a tricameral parliament. They wish to balance all parties out equally, having one house be elected, one hereditary and one appointed. A mechanism to placate the many vested interests of Akai society, such as the aristocracy who dominate the bureaucratic, military and corporate spheres, the increasingly wealthy “peasant” classes whose growing loyalty to Xuanjing transcends old aristocratic boundaries and the state itself.

The Prince himself is a curious character, the youngest son out of four and merely is a half-brother to the late Xionghe being born to Youjia’s late second consort Qixi Cangbai. His siblings were all varying degrees of gifted, with Xionghe being easily the most capable of the late Ditu’s children while Princes Yanfeng and Qiang proved themselves capable officers and Princess Pingan a crafty political operator. This left the socially crude and bookish Prince Sanfu more preoccupied with not trying to compete with them, instead directing his efforts to economic and bureaucratic matters. This was an area the mathematically minded and shrewd Prince thrived in — being increasingly involved in the world of economics with him eventually being appointed at first Director of Currency then arising to the rank of Minister of Revenue. He used this position to help dramatically adjust the economy of Akai, refining many of his elder brother’s reforms to end state monopolies through the cautious privatisation of state assets and break up of state monopolies. His largest works, however, were the relaxing of many regulations regarding the functions of business; destroying a hodgepodge of old feudal traditions and wartime military laws and instead embracing a technocratic quasi-corporatist regime.

He took on an increasingly prominent role in government as the economic boom of the 90s and early 20s continued, eventually taking the place of Heng Longba Jieke’s long-standing ally as Grand Preceptor. From this he used his position to make further economic reforms, refining much of Jieke’s proposals in the field as well as to demonstrate his diplomatic acumen, which he had been developing for years since. He was one of the main representatives of Akai with regard to trade deals with New Edom both in the 1990s and further built on this with the alliance in 2016. He conducted several foreign visits, particularly serving as the Akai representative to New Edom on occassion. However, the Kghuknunlhrah generally are much less cynical in their approach to Akai’s foreign policy than the old regime of Jieke. They merely want to encourage political stability in the region, one prone to fluctuations in power often resulting in thousands and potentially millions dead.

His ascent to serve as regent alongside his half-sister and niece Grand Dihei Tingzi, however, was a rise far too soon for the Prince, with Jieke replacing many of his allies and instead placing in him a position of prominence which isolated him. Given the newfound hostility of the Grand Conclave Sanfu and his movement are cautiously operating reforms, whose actions and discussion about them by political insiders suggests a more radical solution is needed to end the deadlock of the state. But in the meantime, the technocrat Prince’s main proposal as of late is to implement a form of antitrust measure to prevent the corporate cliques from forming monopolies and to break up the existing Oligopolies who the KKH regard as political enemies due to their ties to many of Sanfu’s opponents. It also creates opportunities for Sanfu’s preferred corporate groups, who are backers of his vision and are often far younger than many of the more entrenched cliques. Overall if successful, the Prince and Regent will dramatically strengthen his position yet if it fails it will be one step back for those in Akai to receiving any improvements in the state of their human rights.

[Free Garza]

Vino News Wire Associated,
Luis Maldonado, Staff Writer

The ruling Socialist Party lost 30 seats, dropping to just 102 in the People's Assembly in the most recent elections, while the Christian Democrats gained a 145 seat plurality out of 300. The third-placed Liberal Democrats held their own with a solid 48 seats, leaving just 5 seats for the far-left Communist Party. Recently reinstated CDP Chairman Marco Roman has been invited to the Royal Valdez Palace, reportedly to be asked to form a new minority government in the name of His Catholic Majesty, King Diego IV of Free Garza. The Socialist Premier, Hernan Pacino, has already conceded, admitting that, "The People have lost faith in our policies, no doubt due to recent crises."

A recent poll of registered Garzan voters held that 64% disapproved of the Socialists and their current policies in light of the economic crisis, though many of them agreed with some specific fiscal measures that had nearly universal support. The general impression was that the decision to increase taxes on the rich rather than increase deficit spending during the recession was a crucial blunder economically. In general, though, it was the Gavinium Magnus foreign crisis that was the real killer, as many voters believed that King Diego had been correct in standing up firmly to King Lucian, taking exception to the insult to Empress Isabel of Vorindeum, as well as sharing his support for Isabel and Emperor Albert I of Vorindeum.

As one voter put it, "We need to stick it to that vicious moron Lucian and his whole inbred family of diseased perverts. If he's a damned king, I'm a fucking nun! Isabel is the true ruler of Gavinium! I hope to see her enthroned where she belongs!"

The new likely Premier, Marco Roman, declared in his victory speech that, "We are on a mission, and that mission is to recommit Free Garza to its word and its obligations. We will stand with our allies, Rome, Edom, Ghant, and the Vorindun. Let us all unite and bring that usurper Lucian to justice!"

In the Senate elections, the CDP emerged with 50 seats, half of the total, while the Socialists dropped to just 28, the Liberal Democrats held at 20, and the Communists fell to just 2.

[Late Roman Empire]

Chalcedon Gazette,
Aetius Constans

An official report has been leaked to the press organizations throughout the Empire that the Divine Augustus, Titus I, has formally recognized Kehrahnii secession and the independence of Kehrahn from the Feminist Empire of Deadora. This evening, the Emperor formally confirmed this in a very bold statement to the public and media, in which he declared that, "The Kehrahnii have been reduced under the thumb of their Nadiri overlords ever since the latter simply replaced Roman suzerainty with their own. It is high time for the Kehrahnii state to break free of this brutal and repressive ethnic domination and cease to bare their necks to their Nadiri overladies and mistresses. They will be oppressed and enslaved no more, and one can perhaps hope that the lot of Kehrahnii men will, with time, improve over what it has been under the Nadiri. It is unlikely to worsen, as few states treated their men more abusively and violently, more with contempt and hatred, than the Thrallist one did. We congratulate Kehrahn on its restored national sovereignty and look forward to improved diplomatic as well as economic relationships with them in the wake of the apparent and imminent collapse of the Thrallist state, which is now clearly a failed state indeed."

While some might think that the Emperor has recklessly thrown caution to the wind, to this reporter, it is clear that he is boldly seizing the opportunity presented by a newly formed state that has played second fiddle to the Nadiri for far too long. It's obvious that Thrallism is the god that failed, at least in the House that Natalie Thrall built. Deadora's complete collapse seems as certain to follow as does that of Hostillia in the light of recent events, and quite possibly that of Ghant and Gavinium all else told. Contrast that with the growing victories of the Tsarist-Edomite coalition in the Delvian States and the recent CDP victory in Free Garza, and you can see which states are prospering, which ones are not.

Incidentally, while nationalization of banks is not typically an optimal public policy regarding financial matters, it seems to be a crucial and necessary step to save the banking sector in New Edom, and so the Edomites are to be praised for acting swiftly to prevent the failure of their financial sector in light of recent troubles. In fact, the Emperor formally pledged today to "lend sizable monies, relief funds, and economic investment in our ally, New Edom, so as to bolster its economy in this recent difficulty, which we weathered largely by expanding our own infrastructure repair and reconstruction programs, as usual, as well as by promoting the conservation tourism and mass transit expansions even further this year."

As the Emperor stated, "They stood with us in the thermobaric bomb mess and we stand with them in their times of trouble. Let everyone know that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever."

[United Valik]

National Progressive Citizen,
Teresa Moczar, Editor-In-Chief

Four Federalist deputies in the Federal Assembly have resigned after being indicted by federal prosecutors for a variety of crimes connected with the Association, a now increasingly scrutinized and infamous criminal syndicate known for their role in human trafficking. Reports that Valikan nationals have actually been kidnapped and sold overseas to third parties, and that the four accused deputies were being prosecuted for profiting from such activities and other forms of racketeering. Nor were they the only Federalist Party officials to be so hit with the latest of these and other scandals. Seventeen provincial legislators, provincial administrators, mayors, and councilmen have all been indicted by the Ministry of Justice for their alleged involvement in these operations.

Among reported victims of the Association-Federalist cabal were: Valikan feminists, socialists, progressives, moderates who angered the Federalist administrations in their areas, people who had informed CPO peacekeepers of DMZ violations, anti-Imperium activists, trade unionists, at least one ETC missionary who had angered the local Magi with his "disruptive" behavior, ex-husbands and ex-wives, in-laws, journalists, and many others who had in some offended local Federalists of significance. There were even some reports that a handful of CPO peacekeepers were sold into slavery, as were some Othmani POWs by various Federalists, as well as a few reports that Federalists sent to New Edom during the Third Civil War engaged in trafficking of local folk, and not just women.

When will enough be enough? It is high time that the Federalist Party itself be directly investigated for its treasonous collusion with the Association and the Imperium's Curia. It is high time for direct Federal raids on Federalist Party headquarters and officers around the nation. It is also high time for a larger Federal role in local government, which in the case of Federalist officials is evidently corrupt and answers more often to party officers, to the Association, and to the Magi clergy instead of the Federal Government, which is supposed to be supreme. It is also high time to crack down on several of these militias. They have far too much power, and one step could be to amend the Constitution or at least interpret it in a practical, logical way that doesn't require us to let private citizens own fully automatic weapons. While they were useful against New Othman, they don't need to be part of several private armies or own fully automatic assault rifles in order to resist a future, if implausible invasion from outside.

Yes, it's time for at least a little gun control, in United Valik. There, I said it. Would it really be so dangerous to the liberty of our nation to ban fully automatic weapons and forcibly disband many of these private militias? To this particular reporter, it makes all the sense in the world. I urge Parliament to take action and end the insanity of heavily armed militias threatening the lives, liberty, and property of our property. As the Federalists have shown us, several of these militias' loyalty to the Republic is weak at best. The fact that the recently passed Health Care Improvement Act brought threats of a violent right-wing revolution by prominent Federalist politicians, such as Hugo Stransky, tells us volumes about the dangers of militia presence being so ubiquitous in our land.

It's time for a change. It's also a time to address reports about growing sexual assault and harassment by key militia officers on their own ranks and various civilians who have suffered at their hands, including in the DMZ. It's time to clean up local police departments who have stifled and covered up rape reports, too, including about some of their own forces. The case of Agnes Mezaros, assaulted and gang-raped by six Communist militia youth, tells us enough to know that this is a serious national problem, especially since ranking Communist officials in the local police covered it up and the similar sexual assault of Corporal Mary Sullivan, a policewoman of Dengali origins in a police locker room, which was covered up as well, as well as her termination without the benefit of a local police union, said what level of corruption really have. It also meant that we really do need public sector unions in this country, which would mean amending the Constitution. The Mary Sullivans out there need a voice, too, as do all civilians and police.....and military alike who suffer such crimes.

Teresa Moczar is Editor-In-Chief of the National Progressive Citizen, a magazine for Valikans who believe in social democracy.

[New Othman]

New Izmir Times,
Adnan Tayfur, Senior Editor

Seven speakers and thirty-five attendees of a feminist organization's rally against "rape culture" in Othmani rural districts and "lack of effective prosecution" were publicly stripped, beaten, paraded through the streets of the town of Okay, capital of the local vilayet, or province. The locals pelted them with refuse, shouted abusive invective at them, and splashed them with ice cold water to punish and humiliate them as a "penalty" for challenging the local "traditions and way of life" for the town and province of Okay. They were called "loose women," as well as "whores, traitors, witches, man-haters," and other very hostile terms. They were accused of lesbianism, which isn't even a crime in Othmani law these days.

The local head of the Othmani National Women's Congress, Asli Mardin, has demanded an apology from Okay's mayor, Doga Kutlu, a member of the Social Republican Party, but Kutlu has firmly insisted that "nothing wrong happened. People just reacted to provocation by vicious, nasty women insulting them and their way of life. That is all that went on, after all. and if you insult the honor of our town, you should own up to it and face the consequences of your actions. They are fortunate that we did not sue them, given what all they have been doing for a while. You do not own this town, nor have the right to come here and insult it."

Said one local woman, "I am a woman, too, but what these women did was just plain wrong, so I hit them with rotten eggs to make my point that they are immoral scum, that's all. They have no right to come into my town and challenge our social norms, our traditional family values."

The local imam also condemned the women and declared that, "yes, they are troublemakers and agitators, and naturally need to get a grip. Rape culture is a myth, anyway. Nothing but feminist lies and propaganda."

Some further controversy has come from the Interior Minister, Baki Guler, a Social Republican, who invited further criticism when he refused to sack any local elected public official for "Not buying wholesale into Feminist false philosophy again. Feminism is nothing but female supremacist claptrap and propaganda, aiming to invert the relationship between the sexes and make us all of men nothing but their slaves or minions."

Several prominent Othmani feminists have openly called for Guler's dismissal or resignation, especially in light of recent videos where he mocked even the idea of sexual harassment or rape being real national problems.

[Free Garza]

The Royal Probe,
Serena Duarte, Senior Staff Writer

HRH Princess Rosa, of the royal House of Valdez, has been granted a formal annulment of marriage by the Archbishop of Garza City from Antonio Duran, her lowborn actor husband of just four years, for reasons that have not been made clear yet. The Princess herself has declined to comment, and indeed, the lack of any progeny from the union has made it perhaps uncertain whether or not the nuptials were ever consummated, yet another grounds for annulment that has been traditionally and consistently upheld. Rumors of Duran's homosexuality have circulated for years, so it could well be that the Princess regarded her union with the flashy, self-made commoner with Liberal Democratic leanings to be fraudulent.

The Royal Valdez Palace, in its statement to the press, only acknowledged that, "There were issues that were not presented, as they should have been, prior to the courtship and marriage of Her Royal Highness, and it is significant that there have been no issue from this marriage, no offspring whatsoever. Senor Duran, while a respected and beloved actor, did not do right by his royal wife, HRH Princess Rosa, of our House of Valdez."

The Princess's childless marriage has long been controversial as a sort of misalliance, both due to that and the morganatic nature of the union. Reports and rumors that she still has affections for another man, or even other men, have never been confirmed, but it is certain that she once had a close affinity for Prince Michael of Dakmoor. Whether or not that affection continues or would resume is highly speculative, particularly since the Ghantish, Dakmaran Prince has already married twice himself, once to Queen Mara Obed of New Edom, and then to her younger sister, Princess Jocasta. With constant rumors continuing about the state of that marriage, and on top of this latest development, is there a prospect of a possible Rosa-Michael union, after all? If so, what would that mean for the relationship between the House of Valdez and the Ghantish imperial family, given the long-time rivalry between the Gentries and the Dakmarans? What would it do to the Edomite-Garzan alliance, for that matter?

[Novitera]

Savvy Novi
Novitera's Most Innovative Magazine

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Smart Phone War Rages On

Despite a recovering economy, the battle for market share dominance rages on between smart phone producers. The Noviteran smartphone market is currently split between 4 contenders. These being Lai Dai, Wiyrkomi, Ishukone and the Adiran Oscillio. In a shocking power grab, Ishukone has seized first place in the Noviteran market at 31%. This is followed by Lai Dai's 30% and Wiyrkomi trailing behind at 18%. The fiercest competition can be seen in Novitera but these upcoming new releases should see the fighting spread regionally.

Although Lai Dai has lost market dominance in Novitera, they still hold it abroad with the Sleek series being the most popular Noviteran smartphone phone for foreigners. The Sleek is entirely Lai Dai designed software and hardware due to the company's style of complete vertical integration. Its cost effective price, longest battery life, best camera, customer service and easy to use and refined operating system along with an effective advertisement campaign has made Sleek the number one choice for many years. Soon to be released is the upgraded Sleek-6 which is suppose to be a better media platform. To top it off the Sleek series is still considered the most aesthetic phone produced.

Ishukone has taken the top spot with the Kaze-9, the power phone. The Kaze is a marriage between Ishukone hardware and Zenchi software. Noviterans have apparently made their choice by choosing Kaze's versatility and power over the Sleek's ease of use. Ishukone designed hardware, the bedrock of the Noviteran chip industry, is the best available. The Kaze has the best processing speeds and graphics although there have been some complaints on the phone's shorter battery life. Ishukone has made up for this by releasing power saving patches and applications as well as reducing the costs of portable power banks. There have been some complaints by investors that Kaze's more complicated operating system makes less marketable to foreigners pointing to Sleek's success abroad. However, Ishukone is confident that the new software has a balance between customizability and simplicity that will bring greater value to the consumer.

Last on the list is Wiyrkomi. Although it is the largest of these companies, the software titan was the last to enter the smartphone market having preferred their traditional industries such as operating systems, information technology, applications and video game consoles. In these sectors Wiyrkomi dominates the Noviteran market but trails behind in the smartphone industry. Ishukone and Wiyrkomi originally had plans to jointly produce a smartphone like they do with personal computers and tablets but there was a falling out resulting in the two companies going their separate ways when it came to smartphones. Instead, Wiyrkomi is using Frontier Systems hardware. The Prism 2 was plagued with bugs in its operating system resulting in delays to market share grabs and loss of consumer confidence. This, in combination with a poor marketing campaign resulted in a market share of 8% in 2013. Not to mention Wiyrkomi tailored their phones towards the businessman but had the same "business" features as Kaze and Sleek. But their software engineers have been burning the midnight oil since with market share climbing to 15% by 2016. Wiyrkomi is looking to seize an even greater slice of the pie with the Prism-4 which is an excellent phone in its own right. For one, it sports the most sophisticated AI interface out of all three. In a turn of events, the Prism now ranks number 1 in versatility with this spot being traditionally occupied by Kaze.

So who will take first place this year? Lai Dai has been toppled at home and there is no telling what will happen abroad. It is a game of wait and see which has left the tech sector of the stock market in a state of apprehension. Will Ishukone be able to consolidate its new position or was this just a fluke and we'll see the return of Lai Dai to supremacy? Will Wiyrkomi finally see some success in the smartphone market? Whatever happens, Savvy Novi looks to the future![/box]

[Free Garza]

El Matador,
Consuela Obregon, Senior Writer

After considerable negotiations, which required some concessions to the Socialist Party and the Liberal Democratic Party as well, the Christian Democratic Party, chaired by Marco Roman, has resumed control of a minority government in Free Garza. Senor Roman was formally appointed by King Diego IV to head this government as Premier of Free Garza, with counsel to be provided by His Catholic Majesty the King. The new Premier has pledged not to interfere with the recent economic legislation, but also not to permit any further "socialist measures," as he called them, reassuring the Liberal Democrats. The status quo will be maintained under his premiership in that respect.

To answer worries about the possible "political misuse of the Civil Guard," the new Premier has proposed legislation to place them under the control of the Interior Minister rather than himself, and to that end, he took the extraordinary step of naming as Interior Minister, Count Rodrigo de Valle, a personal friend of His Catholic Majesty, the King, who happened to be a former Civil Guard officer and a former Army officer as well. This appointment itself has raised some eyebrows, as some view it as indirect control of the Civil Guard by the monarch himself. This has reinforced the belief of some that Marco Roman is not his own man, but, as one critic put it, "the lackey of King Diego, now and forever."

Whether Roman proves more independent than last time around, there is no question that his Premiership signals an increase in royal power, as exemplified by his first proposal, which created shockwaves. This proposed Constitutional change would restore the Regere Coniugum proviso of the Constitution on the condition that a personal union did not result, in other words, that Princess Adela of Vorindeum gave up her claim to the Vorindese throne upon marriage to Crown Prince Ferdinand. It would require significant steps, such as a popular referendum, to approve and ratify it, but if enacted, it would resolve the "remaining issue of dynastic conflict between the rival branches of the Royal Family."

Meanwhile, the new Premier wasted no time in putting forward his next plan, one to increase the defense and police budgets, as well as to increase the circulation and sale of government bonds. In particular, Senor Roman argued for a "stronger internal police force to combat crime, an increase in the size of prisons to make room for more inmates, and a crackdown on hacking in particular. Cyber crime has gotten out of control, identity theft is worse than ever, and we have seen national credit bureaus compromised of late. This is serious and hackers need to be imprisoned for very long terms to make an example of them. The King has repeatedly warned the previous government of this cyber threat and the need to beef up our armed and police forces, and they have been lax in following his advice. We shall not be. Our national security will be stronger than ever and our foreign policy will reaffirm the right of Empress Isabel to the Gavinian throne, and Princess Adela after her."

Another initiative that is set to follow is a proposed invitation of the Ditu of Akai, Hulang Lazin, to make a state visit to Free Garza and confer with His Catholic Majesty the King and Premier Roman. The newly restored Foreign Minister, Dr. Armando Sanjuro, was first to announce such a measure. "We believe that Akai can be a great partner with Free Garza, should they be interested in such a partnership. Let bygones be bygones."

Sanjuro also announced a proposed state visit to Rome, Adiron, and Shrailleen, by himself, as part of an initiative to "reinforce and strengthen various friendships."

Update: the new Premier passed his first vote of confidence handily, with a nearly unanimous vote in the People's Assembly (the Socialists and Liberal Democrats abstained) and only the Communists voted against him.

[Ghant]

| NATIONAL NEWS | LOCAL NEWS | ECONOMICS | WORLD | FOOD | ENTERTAINMENT | SPORTS | OPINION |

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Prime Minister Nymun Izarbegiratzeak wins 2017 Ismos Peace Prize

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Ghantish Prime Minister edges Diana Augusta, Father Marco Jimenez for 2017 Award; 2nd sitting Ghantish Prime Minister to win illustrious award

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By John Igara| GHISH | Posted: December 20, 2017 12:00 GST

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Prime Minister Nymun Izarbegiratzeak of Ghant

(Ghish, Ghant) - Better late than never is a widely held sentiment. That’s certainly the case for Ghantish Prime Minister Nymun Izarbegiratzeak, who on the cusp of his 73rd birthday, was announced as the 2017 recipient of the esteemed Ismos Peace Prize.

Gorka Aguirre, the Chairman of the Ismos Peace Committee and former Ghantish Prime Minister from 1992 until 1998, released a statement announcing the award recipient:

The Ismos Peace Committee has decided to award the Ismos Peace Prize for 2017 to Nymun Izarbegiratzeak for his important efforts, around the world and over more than five decades, to resolve conflicts both domestic and international. These efforts have contributed to a more peaceful world and to "fraternity between nations" in the spirit Irat Ismos, after who the award is named.

Throughout all his adult life, whether as a Ghantish political theorist, satirist and author and later as Prime Minister of Ghant, Nymun Izarbegiratzeak has worked for peace and reconciliation using whatever platform was available to him. For the past fifty years, he has figured prominently in endeavors to resolve several serious and long-lasting conflicts. Nymun Izarbegiratzeak has made constructive contributions to the resolution of conflicts in Ashab, Ceti, Deweden, Latium, Liothidia, Nekulturnya, New Edom, Rietumimark, and Vannois ranging from the 1960s through the present day. He played a significant part in the establishment of the Human Rights Commission in 2016 and remains a leading proponent in exploring peaceful solutions to international conflicts and disputes through the use of mediation, advocacy and public education.

Through his untiring efforts and good results, Nymun Izarbegiratzeak has shown what role mediation and advocacy of various kinds can play in the resolution of international conflicts. The Ismos Peace Committee wishes to express the hope that others may be inspired by his efforts and his achievements and follow in his footsteps in the quest to achieve lasting international peace.

The Prime Minister released a statement where he described feeling “deeply honored” and “greatly humbled.” The Prime Minister, known for his modesty, is in a historic position as only the second sitting Ghantish Prime Minister to win the award, following Prime Minister Malderi Haribec in 1939, for his work in peacefully opposing Emperor Nathan III during the Ghantish Revolution as a political prisoner and in helping resolve the conflict as the appointed Prime Minister by Emperor Michael. Irat Ismos, who the award is named after, won the inaugural award in 1890, many years after leaving office. Prime Minister Izarbegiratzeak is the first Ghantish recipient of the award since Sophia, Princess Royal of Dakmoor received the award in 2013 for her humanitarian work in Ghant and abroad.

Prime Minister Izarbegiratzeak had the following to say in an official press release regarding his receiving of the award:

Since the award’s inception, the Ismos Peace Prize has not just been used to recognize certain achievements or accomplishments, but to provide momentum for important causes. Make no mistake, the most important cause is the cause of peace, and it’s a mission that all nations of the modern world ought to work toward. That’s the Great Game…the endgame. That’s why I’ve written several papers, articles and novels about ending nuclear proliferation, addressing the challenges posed by climate change, connecting people of different religions, races and persuasions in order to build cooperation and understanding, peace between warring factions within nations, better conditions for the poorest citizens of Ghant and elsewhere, and advocating for more opportunities for the worst off. To work towards a world where people won’t have to live in fear of political violence, and where they can hope for a better future for themselves and thief families.

Therefore, I’d like to share this award with everyone that I’ve had the pleasure of working with since my days as a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed political science undergrad at the University of Ghish back in 1963. For all the professors who gave lectures to young people about the virtues of public service. For all the young activists that marched in the streets for political and social justice. For all the people out there that work for a world of justice, dignity and peace, I dedicate this award to you.

The Prime Minister faced some stiff competition for the award. Among the other nominees included Emperor Constantine XX of Latium, Latin Consul Alexander Pompilius, the Latin Empress Dowagers Diana Augusta and Marsella Atmos, King Philippe II of New Doltania, Fekade Tessema, Prime Executor James Trask of Novitera and the Chacoan Jesuit Priest Father Marco Jimenz. Insiders indicate that of these nominees, Father Jimenez and the Latin Dowager Empresses were Nymun’s strongest competition. It is thought that Marsella Atmos being a co-nominee of Diana Augusta held back that nomination’s chances, as analysts believe Diana Augusta would have fared better if nominated on her own (not believing Marsella Atmos was worthy of the award). Meanwhile, Father Jimenez is an early favorite to win the award in 2018.

Public perception of the award announcement has been overwhelmingly positive, to the extent that it is giving the Prime Minister a boost in approval polls. With a general election looming in 2018, the Prime Minister’s whip-stitched Independent Coalition, consisting of politicians from across the political spectrum, has lagged in recent polls behind the Labor Party led by Sara Haribec, who is a strong possibility for future Prime Minister of Ghant provided a Labor Party victory. With this award, however, Prime Minister Izarbegiratzeak has far better odds than he did before.

The Peace Prize will be presented to the Prime Minister on December 22nd, on his 73rd birthday, at the Imperial Ghish Concert Hall by Peace Prize Laureate Empress Sophia of Ghant, Gorka Aguirre and Institute member Sara Haribec, great-granddaughter of Laureate Prime Minister Malderi Haribec and descendant of Irat Ismos through her mother. Congratulations to Prime Minister Nymun Izarbegiratzeak on his well deserved award!

[United Valik]

Valikgrad Chronicle,
Adam Somczyk

Federalist candidates for provincial legislatures were overwhelmingly trounced in Friday elections, resulting in the loss of majorities in all but two chambers, both of them in the DMZ, where Federalist sentiment remains highest in opposition to the Treaty of Beaulieu's DMZ clause. In two provinces, the Federalist caucus was entirely wiped out, leaving not a single seat in the party's hands. It was the most staggering renunciation of any single party in Valikan history since the fall of Communism in 2009. In most cases, the biggest beneficiary was the ruling National Liberal Party, or in two cases, its coalition partner, the Popular Democratic Party, which gained control of the provincial assemblies in question, and with it, the executive bodies, too.

Hurting the Federalists were continued Ministry of Justice Police raids, Federal Militia Peacekeeping Corps (FMPC) raids, and local police raids that discovered growing evidence of connections between the party and the nebulous organized crime and human trafficking syndicate known simply as "The Association." While narcotics, cybercrime, digital piracy, gambling, bootlegging, arms dealing, and other rackets were necessarily tied to the Association as well, the human trafficking aspect was by far the most alarming and infuriating activity connected to the criminal organization, to the Federalist Party and Federalist Militia, and to the Orthodox Church of the Magi in Valik. Overwhelmingly, the scandal hurt the party's image with voters, especially given widespread anti-slavery sentiments nationwide. All parties but the Communists gained seats at the expense of the Federalists, since the Reds were still unforgiven for their 77 year reign of terror over the nation.

Anti-Othmani, anti-feminist, anti-CPO, and anti-Beaulieu rhetoric, usually the mainstays of Federalist misinformation campaigns, simply did not carry the same weight from a party believed to be profiting off the abduction and trafficking of slaves from both Valik and other nations. Only in the DMZ was that kind of sentiment enough to salvage any electoral strength whatsoever for the Federalists, whose chairman refused to resign and even demanded recounts in several districts. However, given the margins of the total tabulations, as well as the national "wave" effect, it was clear that the Federalists were fairly beaten and rejected by the popular will.

As newly elected Valikgrad Province Premier Antonin Soychuk (Progressive), noted, "The people were given a clear choice between darkness and light, and at last, here and now, they chose light, they chose virtue, they chose justice and basic human decency. They chose democracy, freedom, equality, truth, fairness, and reform over paranoia, pseudo-populism, xenophobia, militarism, fascism, religious fanaticism, brutality, and tyranny."

[Gavinium Nova]

The Royalist,
Eustace Mendes, Senior Editor

Several new royal edicts have been promulgated today, in a flurry of legislation being issued by the restored King and his Chancellor, Count Patrick Barrault. The statutes or decrees in question were drafted by the sovereign in collaboration with his cabinet, though the Convocation of Two Hundred, which has included new members to replace those purged by King Lucian, has had some opportunity to offer limited counsel to His Sacred Majesty. Our King has graciously ordered that all such new edicts be posted online as well for all to see and read, and he has also decreed that petitions be permitted to be posted to a special page on the monarchy’s official website, Crown.gov.

Among these new laws are:

The Public Hospital Reorganization Statute, which completes the formal nationalization of all hospitals and clinics in Gavinium, transforming their function to a non-profit, state-run enterprise, to be administered and supervised by the Royal Ministry of Health. All medical, nursing, and dental schools are now state-run as well.
The Public Morals and Decorum Law, which bans all fish and cross tattoos, all lip, nose, and cheek piercings, hip-hugging jeans, full-length skirts or dresses, neckties, bow ties, nun or novice habits by anyone not actually enrolled in convents, Christian clerical collars and cassocks by anyone not actually a member of Christian clergy, yarmulkes by anyone not actually Jewish, Muslim headgear by anyone not actually Muslim, hijabs or burqas by anyone, rap music, dreadlocks, Mohawks, underwear beneath baggy pants (but not baggy pants themselves), poor medical, physical, and dental hygiene, one-piece bathing suits, failure to wipe down gym equipment after use, political T-shirts, and the use of any online avatars celebrating feminism, Communism, or organized crime.
The Financial Industry Reform Statute, which legislated Royal Central Bank bailouts and purchases of “toxic” assets, required increased circulation of currency to cover it, instituted a Bureau of Small Business Lending Services, established a broad policy of “micro loans,” eased credit, forgave borrowers of mortgages, allowed refinancing at lower rates of interest, deferred foreclosures, and required funding of large new infrastructure projects. Bankruptcy was also to be made easier for those requiring it for such recession-related financial devastation.
The Defense of Social Order Law, which formally banned Marxism and feminism as ideologies, criminalizing them in every respect and prohibiting any “affiliation with such subversive organizations as deny the full equality of the sexes and genders which is the reality of Gavinian society. To in any way, shape, or form assert that Gavinium has anything less than full gender equality or to state the foreign lie that it is a ‘patriarchy’ is to commit an act of sedition against good social order and thus incur the wrath of the Crown for said breach of the Crown’s Peace.” Essentially, all feminist and Marxist groups, organizations, parties, movements, or clubs are now outlawed and all feminist and Marxist literature and social media accounts are likewise prohibited. Also, it is a crime to accuse someone now of “sexual harassment,” which does not exist in Gavinian law.
The Law for the Preservation of Religious Unity, which required all Gavinians to formally register with an approved faith, of which there were now the following: Luminarianism, Catholicism, Edenism, Protestantism, Judaism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Mormonism, Adventism, Islam, Magism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Leenism, and Patrianism. Occult organizations and the practice of magic are now forbidden, as are any claims of witchcraft. Furthermore, Luminarianism remains the state religion and supported by royal subsidy, its priests paid by the Crown and its seminaries funded out of the royal coffers. Jehovah’s Witnesses are forbidden. All monarchs and royals must be Luminarians, unless granted a formal Crown waiver, all royal weddings must be Luminarian, and only Luminarian temples and organizations are tax-exempt.
The Law for the Defense and Security of the Realm, which required all Gavinians of both sexes between the ages of thirteen and forty to perform a minimum of two weeks per annum “Home Guard” service, training and drilling in case of invasion, as well as putting the Realm in the direction of war economy mobilization. This is creating a sort of national reserve army, just in case of a foreign invasion that might try to usurp Lucian’s throne. In addition, all participants are to receive a “national Home Guard stipend,” a subsidy to compensate them for their service, varying in size and frequency on the basis of merit, pay grade, and circumstances.
The Law for the Defense of the Truth, which required all press and media organizations to submit their publications for review by the Royal Board of Censors. Most speech shall remain free, but overtly treasonous and seditious remarks shall be removed from all editorials, columns, articles, etc. Also, all literature imported into Gavinium must be inspected by customs and rated on its social benefit before being permitted entry to the Kingdom. All websites are to be monitored closely by the Royal Cyber Authority, with all modems and routers to be equipped with surveillance equipment to monitor all browsing and social media activity.

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

The Eagle's Cry

Shrailleeni News Unbiased
Serving the Children of the Mother Goddess and the Region

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Statement of Purpose: Founded on the principles of liberty, morality, and matriatism, the staff of the Eagle's Cry are dedicated to the principles of free speech and accessibility of information, except where this information could endanger the well-being of the Shrailleeni people. This news source will report to the Shrailleeni people and the region the true goings-on within the Shrailleeni Empire through foreign electronic and domestic printed mediums.

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International News
January, 1294 (2018)

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WAR!
Mad King Lucian Declares Death to Leenism

Imperial City - The Enlightened Matriarchy issued a declaration of war against the Kingdom of Gavinium Magnus today, following an increasingly hostile diplomatic exchange between Her Enlightened Majesty the Mother Empress and King Lucian I. The affair escalated when King Lucian, ostensibly due to being offended by Her Enlightened Majesty's remarks, issued orders to outlaw Mother Goddess worship on pain of death, seized the private property of Leenists, Shrailleeni, and Deadoran citizens, and revoked recognition of Shrailleeni sovereignty.

Her Enlightened Majesty the Mother Empress outlined the precise justifications for the declaration in accordance with the guidelines for Enlightened warfare. The Eagle's Cry will publish a portion of this statement here:

...that Lucian has prohibited worship of the Mother Goddess from his nation entirely, and has threatened the Children of the Mother Goddess who remain in his realm with death by fire. That he has declared to seize the assets and property of all Children of the Mother Goddess within his realm through the confiscation and sale of their property and estates. That he has refused to recognize the sovereignty of the Enlightened Matriarchy, thus declaring his power and authority over our realm and all within it with threat of force. That he has threatened Shrailleeni nationals residing within Gavinium with deportation on pain of imprisonment, and has illegally confiscated their property and assets. That he has illegally seized the property and assets of our ally, the Empire of Deadora, and further has done so without any due cause or explanation. That he has threatened with destruction our allies the Commonwealth of Gloria Regis, and incited acts of terrorism and violence against them. That he has issued threats against the sovereignty of our ally the Republic of Dengali. That he has incited violence against the Enlightened Matriarchy, and called for our destruction.

Furthermore, that King Lucian has demonstrated himself insane and unfit to rule by merit of his response. That this can be shown through his illegal seizures of property and assets. Through his recognition of the "People's Republic of Muldera," a non-existent entity which is now the Republic of Muldera and an integrated part of the Shrailleeni state. Through his recognition of "The Dengali Government-in-Exile," a non-existent entity which also implies a challenge to the sovereignty of the Republic of Dengali, a Shrailleeni ally. Through his recognition of "The Gloria Regis Government in Exile," a non-existent entity. And through his accusation that Marcus Macrinus Asinius was assassinated on the orders of the Shrailleeni Matriarchy of State, a claim so insane that it need not be expounded upon."

The threats to the lives of Leenists and Shrailleeni citizens are, in truth, merely the latest in a long history of Gavinium hatred directed toward the Shrailleeni culture, people, and religion. King Lucian, who has outlawed even the mention of feminism in his country, has designated himself the destroyer of all matriarchal cultures and values. Claiming to enforce absolute gender equality alongside the likes of New Othman, the mad king has made it clear that he will not cease to promote and enact violence against women and matriarchies so long as he maintains his power. No Shrailleeni can sleep soundly knowing that our Sisters and Brothers in Gavinium Magnus now fear for their very lives, stripped of property and wealth and commanded to leave a nation without the means to affect that exit.

Sources in Fineberg have suggested that Shrailleen will not be alone in this fight against the insane king Lucian. It is believed that the Allied States of New Edom will come to the defense of the Shrailleeni in Gavinium Magnus as well as all civilized people. It is unknown how other regional nations will react to this news, particularly the state of Novitera, which has recognized Lucian's rule and welcomed him into the Cornellian Trade Organization (CTO), which has been criticized by many in Shrailleen for being financially predatory.

All Shrailleeni military forces have been put on alert, and a full mobilization is in effect. Until the might of the Enlightened Matriarchy can be mustered toward the defense of our Sisters and Brothers, a new Task Force will be formed to make way with all haste to the aid of the Leenic people. The exact composition of this force is classified, but its intention is to bring relief to Gavinium Magnus with the greatest speed possible.

Her Enlightened Majesty added that "this state of war shall cease to exist at such a time as the integrity of the Shrailleeni state and its allies has been assured, that the lives and property of Shrailleeni citizens stolen by King Lucian have been returned, and the rights of all Children of the Mother Goddess living within Gavinium have been preserved."

From everyone here at The Eagle's Cry, we offer a prayer for our Sisters and Brothers in Gavinium Magnus, and to our Sisters and Brothers in uniform who hasten to their defense. May the Mother Goddess guide us all through Her Light.

[New Edom]

Evil Evil Clown

Are all Evil Clowns liars and murderers at heart, like their father, Satan?

Our biggest fear is unutterable, even to ourselves. It is inevitably bound up with fascination and wonder. It is, in part, a machine in which collective insanity incinerates itself as a protective instinct.
- Evil Clown

Paradox Equivocation, The Secret Combustion Of The Engine.

If you can hear me it is because I am screaming, screaming from the pits of hell, or because the mic is on.

Welcome To Litotes The Clown's Blog

Make Evil Clown Litotes Blog Your Home Page - Find Evil Clown Litotes Blog Again!

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Litotes The Clown Thanks Ubermilf For Kindnesses

Apologies for Delayed Gratification

Back in July of 2013 I posted the first of what I had hoped would be the beginning of an experimental series of posts:

Think of this as an Evil Clown Exquisite Corpse
The idea was (and is) to smash together clown writing and images in evil and interesting ways.

Ubermilf was part of that first, successful, experiment.

Ubermilf directly and graciously got in touched me.

Being the very milk of kindness, from her bounty, she gifted me and spoke to me kindly.

Tragically, as is so often the case, circumstances conspired against me.

The plot is well enough known to the world weary; the evil clown encounters trials, setbacks (not all of them court ordered), mistaken identity, misunderstanding and complications galore.

Standing now just past another crossroads; life finds me more grateful than some.

Details of my mission aside, I give my heart felt thanks to Ubermilf – not only for her words and gifts, but for her ample forbearance.

If only all women were thus endowed.

Our story does not end here, but I for my part, worn by my recent exertions, must retire and have my respite before I come again.

Litotes The Clown

Comments 0

[Republica De Gran Chaco]

El Tiempo

Chaco's Finest News Source

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WAR!

News has broken that Chacano assets have been frozen in Gavinium Nova, and that the Chacano Diplomatic Mission has been expelled and are on their way to Novitera. In response to these hostile actions, parliament held an emergency session where a majority voted to recognize that a state of war now exists between Gavinium Nova and The Republic of Gran Chaco. Forces in Dongying have been put on alert, as their proximity puts them in potential danger of an attack from Gavinium Nova. The head of the Dongying Colonial Forces was quoted as saying, “We are prepared to protect everyone living in the territory of Dongying, our people can rest assured that they will remain safe.”

The diplomatic mission of Gavinium Nova has been apprehended trying to leave the country. They have been housed in comfortable accommodations until hostilities cease. Word is that the government is preparing to issue letters of Marque against ships flying under the flag of Gavinium Nova. We will report more news throughout the day as it breaks. Be sure to check back with El Tiempo, the nation’s finest news source.

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[Gavinium Nova]

The National Inquiry, Snippets Bulletin Daily Page
Stephan Duchamp, Staff Writer

His Sacred Majesty today issued a proclamation requiring daily national and supervised physical exercise by all citizens, in order to "keep in fighting trim in case of foreign aggression," in addition to plans to organize the people in new civil defense efforts. Called Project Armband, each citizen is to wear a white armband with a solar disc on it, and each citizen is to do a minimum of half an hour of physical exercise, to be followed by half an hour of community service, both under the supervision of "community guides," who are to report on the progress of their teams. Any citizens who demonstrate reluctance must be reported immediately to the authorities for disciplinary action.

Also in the news, imprisonment prior to trial in gaols is to be supplemented by "community service rehabilitation" camps, where residents are to be required to work as directed by camp authorities, after which they will be released with credit for time served, even if convicted of any non-capital offense. Bail has also been abolished, as is recognizance. A special High Emergency Court for the Protection of the Realm has been created to "relieve the burdens on ordinary authorities created by the present political terrorist crisis." Its commissioners are to be: Judge Jared Wallace, Judge Oscar Villon, and Judge Sierra Ochoa. Judge Wallace is to serve as President of the Court.

Also in the news, sixteen more members of the Convocation have been proscribed by summary decree, their properties seized and forfeit to the Crown in a special proscription list. Their lives are also forfeit, each member attained for high treason and thus automatically sentenced to death by guillotine. Their heads are to be placed on spikes above the Gates of Jacob. To replace them, His Sacred Majesty is holding a sortition, or lottery, to randomly select sixteen citizens, plus one hundred more, as the membership is to be expanded to three hundred instead of two hundred. No felons, Leenists, feminists, or Muslims need apply.

In other news, the King has announced that he has married the following women:

1. Countess Jillian Fall
2. Daphne Regnard

Neither woman is of sufficient rank for the title of Queen Consort, a position that is consequently open to others.

His Sacred Majesty has directed that National Royale TV produce a new reality TV series called Date Your King. It will be open to all women of Luminarian faith between the ages of 18 and 30. Contestants must sign a consent form prior to being permitted to participate. They must also swear personal fealty to the King regardless of the outcome. The prize will be the position of official maitresse royale (mistress to the royal person).

[New Othman]

New Ankara Sentinel,
Berkay Erol, Senior Writer

In a recent 345-50 vote, with just 5 abstentions, the Grand National Assembly approved a bill to establish a Maglev-style bullet train transit network nationwide, to reach from the Western end of the country to the East. Since its cost will be staggering, though its social benefits will also be high, it will be paid for by further reductions of the Navy budget, to be covered by the sale of yet more older frigates and destroyers. The plan is to have a fully national bullet train system in place by the year 2021. For this purpose, considerable amounts of land will have to be transferred by means of eminent domain and there will be due compensation.

This is all part of the overall plan and policy of the Socialist-led coalition government of Premier Akonder Tufan, who is noted as stating that, "Rather than bullets, we need bullet trains. We need improved infrastructure, better roads, better highways, better railways and seaways. This is high time for a truly modern system of infrastructure. We need more police, fire, emergency services. We need more schools, more teachers, more colleges and tech schools. We need more libraries. We need more research grants, more laboratories, more computer training and better internet services. We need better housing, more homes for the vagrants, winos, veterans, disabled, elderly, etc. We need a higher wage. This is what New Othman needs. More social justice and more investment in our society. This is what we should have been doing all along, and now that the insurgents are put down, we can."

In other news, six people were gunned down in the town of Okay last Sunday, in the second such incident there in less than a month. The Fascist People's Army (FPA) has claimed full responsibility. The perpetrators were arrested in just two days and charged with "plotting to violently overthrow the national government," in addition to the charges of mass murder and terrorism. If convicted, they face the highest penalty under law: death by hanging. The targets of such atrocities were members of a Christian sect known simply as The Peace of God. They are widely believed to be Edenists or Naturist, given their total absence of clothing in daily lives.

[Late Roman Empire]

Imperial News Wire Service

The Emperor has issued a formal proclamation today, mobilizing the entire reserves of the Imperial Roman Legions (army), Navy, Air Force, and Marines. The Divine Augustus indicated that this is due to "heightened military and strategic perils prompted by a massive mobilization of neighboring military forces, particularly in and near Gavinium Magnus." The total force strength immediately available near the Gavinian border with the Empire is estimated at six legions, or the equivalent of three divisions in other military forces. Additionally, there is Ahenobarbus IV Imperial Air Force Base stationed at Draconeum, Draconia Foederati State, which borders Gavinium Magnus directly. This could very well be a preparatory step toward direct military intervention by Rome in Gavinium's current war of succession, especially with the addition of Draconian auxiliary militia forces.

[Delvian States]

Vaslui Gazette,
Antonin Skopje

The State President of the Council, Col. Ismail Bilalovic, today announced that the "war against the rebellious province and principality known as Brod is over. We have prevailed, with the aid of Almighty God and our worthy allies, the Allied States of New Edom, the Hellenic Kingdom of New Hydrenia, the Empire of Ghant, Western Damoclea, the Imperial Fatherland of the Vorindun and Lyscania. Imperial rule has been restored to Brod and the new ruler, Princess Dunja, is complying with occupational authorities and forces assigned by His Imperial Majesty the Tsar."

At 2035 hours, local time, the city of Livohka, capital of the secessionist principality of Brod, has formally surrendered, just as the remaining military forces, commanded by Lieutenant General Zdenko Ryba, the Chief of Staff, also did. Slaves are being liberated as we speak from captivity. All four remaining labor camps have been overrun and seized as well. The so-called Provisional Government, or Council of State, has also officially capitulated to Lieutenant General Felicity Romain, CINC of the Tsarist Coalition forces, and has been promptly dissolved in favor of a new cabinet responsible to, and governing in the name of, Her Grace, Princess Dunja of Brod.

Former Grand Steward Drahomir Sedlak was taken into custody by Imperial military police gendarmes, and is expected to be transferred to the Grand Military Prison Stockade in Stipac, Soca Imperial Territory, pending his trial for high treason. No word yet on the fate of the former head of state, however, who remains in Edomite custody and not yet formally charged. If convicted of high treason, both of them are likely to be executed for their crimes, most likely by public hanging. Prince Branko Brod, son of Nadalya Brod has been restored to the custody of his father, Count Sambor Milanovic. Countess Zlatana Siroky, the former social secretary of the Princess, has been awarded the title of Marchioness of the Empire, to be held in the lineage of her progeny, male and female alike, as a rewarded for her services or the Empire.

Update: Nadalya Brod has been formally stripped of her titles, properties, estate, and Delvian citizenship. She is now a stateless person rather than a Delvian national. She has been formally outlawed and banished from the Empire of Delvian States for the rest of her natural life, but will be given a stipend on which to live for the rest of her days. Her marriage to Count Sambor Milanovic is now formally dissolved and she is free to wed again.

His Imperial Majesty, the Tsar Constantin III, has warned Princes Danko Pintar of Kruskal and Berivoj Maslovaric of Ozanka, as well as the cabinet of the captive Princess Dragica, that they have exactly 48 hours to "lay down your arms and surrender to the Imperial Armed Forces, thus terminating your armed rebellion against us unconditionally, or else face the full wrath of the Crown and armed forces of the Motherland. Failure to comply will force us to continue prosecuting this war against you until you are utterly destroyed."

[The Vorindun]

The Maximeum Tribune,
Marinus Cornelius

The Senate today approved a formal declaration of war against Gavinium Magnus, "as long as Lucian I continues to usurp the throne thereof." The vote was 233-67, with only the New Fatherland Front party opposing the resolution. Shortly afterward, Kaiser Martin I and Minister-President Vidiges Odoacer held a signing ceremony for the Gavinian War Resolution Act of 2018, during which the Kaiser also completely froze all Gavinian assets and offered letters of marque and reprisal to the Imperial Merchant Marine. The Kaiser furthermore called for "a complete constitutional guarantee of economic, political, social, civil, and religious freedoms in Gavinium Magnus," and further denounced the "horrific persecution of religious minorities and political dissidents in Gavinium Magnus, something utterly anathema to the Fatherland. We are a patriarchal people, we make no bones about that, but the right of all citizens to believe and practice their own ways of life within the dominant culture, to have a sub cultural community that is particular to them and those like-minded to them, is something that we have learned from having a multi-ethnic and religiously diverse nation, and from this has proceeded firm principles and ideals of personal freedom."

The Kaiser also stated that, "while we recognize that Rome has certain legal and traditional rights as suzerain over Gavinium Magnus, we believe that it is time, once the war and occupation in said nation, to establish full national sovereignty for said nation, along with a constitutional system of crowned liberal democracy and/or executive, constitutional monarchy, on the basis of a written constitution and charter of civil rights, as well as free, democratic elections on the basis of universal adult and adolescent suffrage, the rule of law, an independent judiciary, and whatever additional protections against oppression as may be necessary. We believe that the time has come for Rome to allow Gavinium Magnus to achieve its national destiny without further interference, once the dangers of such independence to the region have been eradicated."

The Roman Legate to the Vorindun, Valerius Messius, declined to comment at this time.

[United Valik]

The Glauconeum Herald,
Casimir Horowitz

The Elections Reform Act of 2018 was finally approved by the Senate after nearly two weeks of controversy and debate, with a final vote of 76-24 in the upper chamber. This followed its passage by the Federal Assembly by a vote of 354-46. The largest opposition came from the Federalist Party, as well as some of the more right-wing members of the ruling National Liberals, whereas it had the full support of most of the National Liberal Party caucus, along with the Popular Democrats, the center-left Progressive Party (formerly the Progressive League), the far-left Populists, and even the nation's radical-left United Proletarian Front (a Communist-led umbrella front of nearly every militant left-wing party in the nation aside from the Populists, from Stalinists to Trotskyites to militant feminists and anarchists). Since the bill was proposed by Paulina Adamski of the People's Party (aka "Populists"), and simply co-sponsored by Foreign Minister and Popular Democratic Chairwoman Talia Tsaros, it was subject to a "free vote," where senators and deputies were not held to party discipline and could vote as individuals.

The major and most controversial provision of the Elections Reform Act was not its provision of public financing to candidates of limited means, nor even the automatic voter registration once citizens came of voting age, but the establishment of election days as Federal holidays, since this meant that a significant number of public employees would have a paid holiday on which to vote, thus making them even more likely to do so. All non-essential government employees, federal, provincial, and local, would have more time to vote and be paid to do so, which some members of the National Liberal Party complained would be a "waste of public monies on lazy civil servants who already don't do enough but waste the taxpayers' time. Let them vote when they get off work like everyone else." Additionally, students and teachers in particular would have the day off to vote, which would increase the number of these demographics, some of which have more leftist leanings.

During Prime Minister's Questions Time, Prime Minister Stanislav Lubinski defended the law, for which he himself voted, by noting that, "while we can't force industries to give people days off, paid or unpaid, in which to vote, we can at least force ourselves to do so, and in so doing, make voting more accessible and practical a right to exercise for some among us, thus increasing turnout, especially for some of our citizens most affected by the policies of government at all levels. Voting ought not to be that much of an inconvenience, on the theory of weeding out certain kinds of voters. It's not government's job to cull the voting herd and thus select our electorate. Voting is a right of all citizens of voting age, a means by which the community which we serve as public servants is held to responsibility and accountability to the broader populace. If they wish to make it fairer to people in their own employ, the private sector can, and in my opinion should, give non-essential private sector workers a paid holiday or even an extended lunch break or half-day in which to vote."

The first elections for which this new law will be effective will be March 4, 2018, for the municipal level of government, and it is noted that, due to recent corruption scandals connecting it to organized crime, bribery, graft, misuse of public funds, illegal arms dealing, and human trafficking, the Federalist Party is particularly worried that it might suffer yet another electoral beating at the polls. This seems to be its major worry, whereas the more conservative National Liberals fear that a stronger public employee voting bloc will eventually lead to public sector collective bargaining and unions, though this would require an amendment to the Federal Constitution of 2013.

[Gavinium Nova]

The Gavinian Underground Weekly,
Antoine Pinot

Reports have surfaced early this morning that Crown Prince Jason, rightful heir to the Crown of Jacobus and the Throne of Light, was seen last Sunday in Northern Ghant, of all possible locations, in the company of his grandmother, Dowager Queen Anne-Marie. If confirmed, this would have a huge political significance, as under Gavinian law, his claim would outweigh any others, being the firstborn (and only legitimate) son of the late King Maximian II. He would, in fact, already be the lawful king himself, with the presumed stile of King Jason I. While only reportedly four years of age, and therefore definitely in the minority, his presence and survival would up-end the claims to the succession of Princess Desire, his aunt, or of any other contender. Even so, he would need a regent or council of state or something of that nature to govern Gavinium until he comes of age. Presumably, either his aunt, his grandmother, or one of his many cousins, would be awarded the powers of the regency, at least until he reaches his majority and can rule in his own name.

In addition to proving the survival of the boy king, if confirmed, this would mean that his grandmother also escaped the usurper Lucian I, which would be very bad news for that crazed tyrant, but almost certainly great news for the kingdom. The question remains, though: if this can be proven, will the various nations acting on behalf of Princess Desiree switch their support to that of King Jason I, or would they maintain their present position? Would Emperor Albert of Vorindeum continue to claim the throne on the basis of his wife's supposed claim from the disinherited, Christian line of Elena of Garza? Would House Dakmaran continue to support Princess Natalie? Would any of these other claimants renounce their rights in favor of King Jason?

Update: This reporter has personally met with and confirmed the identity of the young monarch and his grandmother, Dowager Queen Anne-Marie. He is, in fact, His Sacred Majesty, Jason I, by the Grace of the Light, King of Gavinium Magnus, First Emissary of the Light, Father of the Nation, and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Light save the King!