Greater Díenstad News Feed

by **Palmyrion** » Tue Jul 28, 2020 7:34 am

Duterte, Former Army General, Elected as Chancellor
Victor Kalimantan | 28 July 2020 4:48PM PST

Duterte garnered 56.1% of votes from the voters
SDP finished second with 30.9% of votes, CDP at 8.1%
Duterte to ascend to seat of power on 7 August 2020

ARAGON, PALMYRION | The official results are out, and the outcome is clear: retired Army general and Commonwealth Action Party flagbearer Ricardo Duterte has been elected the new Chancellor of the Royal Commonwealth. Collection and compilation of results from the various federal subjects of Palmyrion was finished by four in the afternoon today, with final tallying and calculation of results accomplished at 4:40PM amidst 'several complications' cited by the Commonwealth Electoral Committee (COMELEC).

Duterte, hailing from Davao City in the Province of Davao, has won the election for Chancellor after having garnered a landslide vote percentage of 56.1%. He is running on a militarist and social democratic platform for his Chancellery candidacy.

The Social Democratic Party, with Evelyn Sta. Ana as its flagbearer and Chancellor candidate, garnered 30.9% of votes from the electorate, followed by the Christian Democratic Party at 8.1%. The Commonwealth Muslim Democratic Party garnered 3.9% of votes, with the Synarchist Party and Communist Party garnering 0.8% and 0.3% of the votes respectively. This was likewise reflected on the Parliamentary election conducted simultaneously during the election from 15 to 22 July 2020, though the SDP-CAP coalition finally met their match with the CMDP-CDP alliance: the SDP-CAP alliance garnered 50.4% of the vote while the CMDP-CDP coalition garnered 47.7% of the vote, with the remaining 1.9% being shared by the CPP and the SPP who are supposedly in an uneasy coalition with each other.

Duterte will ascend to the position of Chancellery on 7 August 2020, alongside the official appointment of his selected Vice Chancellors in the Executive Council.

Electoral Outlook

Voter turnout for the 2020 Palmyrian Federal Elections was substantially higher than that of the 2015 Federal Elections, with the 2020 Federal Elections having a voter turnout of 96.1% compared to 2015's 64.3%. The voter turnout for 2015 was largely affected by the Turbulent Tens Conflict, which lasted from 2009 up until 2018; with local authority, law and order, and basic social services and economic activity restored following the conclusion of the Conflict, the affected federal subjects were now ready to participate in the 2020 Federal Elections even as sporadic uprisings from the remnants of the separatist armies arose here and there only to be quickly flushed out by Palmyrian and Marshite forces in a matter of weeks, if not days.

The northern highland federal subjects - the Federal Republic of Ilocos, the Federal Republic of Cagayan Valley, and the Cordilleran Federal Republic - remained as the electoral bastions of the Christian Democratic Party and the Social Democratic Party, while the Republic of Greater Zambal was locked in a two-way competition with the CAP-SDP alliance and the CDP-CMDP alliance. The Federal Republics of the Tagalog, Bicolandia, and the Visayas remained as the electoral bastions of the CDP and the CAP, while the predominantly-Muslim federal subjects of the Islamic Republics of Sultan Osmalik and Mindanao remained as the electoral bastions of the Commonwealth Muslim Democratic Party and the Commonwealth Action Party.

It remains to be seen whether of not the 2019 Commonwealth Square Pride March Massacre will affect the public's view of the religious CDP given the attackers' Christian affiliation, and likewise for the CMDP for the Jumhuriya Islamiyah uprising of the Turbulent Tens Conflict - but given the CDP's and CMDP's condemnation of these events (and, in the case of the CMDP, rumoured armed opposition by paramilitary units) the outlook for CDP and CMDP in regards to this is most likely not going to be affected.

For the Term 2020-2025, Palmyrion looks to be governed by a hung parliament torn between the SDP-CAP coalition and the CDP-CMDP coalition, with each garnered almost half of the votes for Parliament.

by **Eitoan** » Wed Aug 05, 2020 3:43 pm

Early Dashez Campaigning Shows Emerging Nationwide Issues
With local slates filled out for the lower house, early indications of the most important issues to voters across Eitoan show the emergence of battle lines between the three mainstream parties, The Socialists, President Shrdlu’s big tent centrist Free Democrats, and the more conservative Civic Platform. The far right National Democrats, still reeling from last weeks defection of five Dashezniks to Civic Platform and two to the Free Democrats have been struggling at all levels in this election cycle and appear to be headed to the dustbin in terms of nationwide competitiveness. At the other end of the spectrum, the Communists appear to be tending to their incumbents, and keeping a low profile or even quietly backing Socialists in the more marginal districts. Eitoan 1 News reports in detail here.

Revised Beverage Classification Leads Nationwide Issues for Dashez

Calls in the Dashez for revision to the 2003 Beverage Classification Guidelines to reduce the percentage of alcohol by volume that defines Class A beverages from 30 proof to 10 proof have come to the forefront as a leading issue nationwide. Key members of the Dashez were approached by distillers earlier this year seeking to widen the market for their products among women and the younger market segment. A coalition mostly of Civic Platform Dashezniks, with scattered support among Socialists and some Free Democrats appear ready to introduce legislation effecting the proposed change early next week.

On the national level Free Democrats have been resistant to the proposal. Many Free Democrat Dashezniks have criticized the move, responding mostly to housewives concerned about the impact on teenage drinking and juvenile delinquency. The move was also prompted by discussions with religious leaders in many of the territories. Although territorial drinking age regulations vary, the concern is widespread throughout the nation, and appears to be a major driver in the Free Democrat campaign this year. Civic Platform candidates, more responsive to the concerns of major distillers are generally supportive of the change, although the party hasn’t stated an official position at this time. It is thought that this position may advantage Civic Platform in more upscale urban districts.

Significant polling at the local level on the issue has not been made available at this time. As of the end of last week, Eitoan One's Voter Profile Analysis shows sentiment on the issue at 31% strongly against reclassification, 25% moderately against, 22% moderately in favor, and 13% strongly in favor with 9% undecided. The margin of error on the poll is 3%

The Bellwether 250th: Foreign Policy Issues

Foreign policy, usually a bigger point of discussion in the Ghastak contest, is polling as a mid-level concern, and nowhere are differences between the major parties more on display than in the 250th District. Anchored in the city of Marengo on the Burgess River, this southern town displays more than it’s share of the region’s fabled independence in national elections. Differences were discussed in typical gentlemanly fashion recently at a forum provided by the Marengo Automotive Manufacturing and Distribution Association. The National Democrats, plagued in the 250th as at the national level, failed to field a candidate in this year's race. Communist Jennifer Secor, a Marengo criminal defense attorney, declined to participate in the discussion, citing the forum as "impossibly biased in favor to the owner class", further stating that "I will be happy to meet my competition on a level playing field, and look forward to that opportunity.".

Two term Civic Platform incumbent James Lisek, while generally supportive of the Shrdlu administration’s Ralkovia policy was called upon during the open question period to defend his recent statement that “Of course we need to support our men and women in Federal Ralkovia, and stay the course with the President. We may find it possible at some point to negotiate with responsible parties in Regime Ralkovia and even the Raumfestung.” His statement elicited some groans from audience members and a response from his Free Democrat challenger, and most especially from the Socialist nominee.

Marengo Mayor Radek Boxleitner, named by the Socialists to run for the seat appeared to be incredulous at Lisek’s statement. “Mr. Listek, with all due respect, how can you even broach the subject of an opening to the enemy in the Regime, and the holdover war criminals in the Raumfestung? A free Federal Ralkovia can only go forward with the knowledge that they can rest secure under the watch of our boys and girls. I’m with President Shrdlu. We must maintain military superiority to Regime Ralkovia on continent. Although with all honesty the Dashez should take a look at the upcoming naval appropriation bill.”. Mayor Boxleitner was joined in his criticism of Lisek by Free Democrat hopeful Michael Mortensen, owner of the Accurate Plating Company, and recently the Free Democrat’s Marengo City Chairman. He put on a flag waving display of the President’s “New Nationalism”, even mentioning the putative “Shrdlu Doctrine” of maintenance of the military to a level of superiority to any single continental land force. He told the forum “In all honesty, we can’t trench back on the naval appropriation. Because who dominates the Great Inland Sea controls the space between Regime Ralkovia and Eitoan. I won’t give up or hard-won victory for the sake of a few Quada. I hope, and believe that Mayor Boxleitner can see through to this, in the event he should win the election”. Mayor Boxleitner responded with a jovial retort. "Mike, I hope you don't get me wrong. Of course I'd go for anything for our men and women serving up north. But seriously, I'm sure all of us can agree that a lean, cost effective defense gives us the biggest bang for the Quada. It's worked out well for our city services and facilities, and a hearty review of all major military spending can only contribute positively to our defensive and offensive capabilities".

Differences Emerge on Secondary Boycott

The behavior of the national government in enforcement of restrictions on secondary boycotts in labor disputes is of increasing importance lately, most notably between the Socialists and Free Democrats nationwide. Secretary of Labor and Social Affairs Megan Kreisman investigation of local enforcement of the restrictions in the ongoing strike of the General Laborers Union against Lucky Diamond supermarkets, now in it’s 59th day has become a wedge between the two parties. Much of her staff in the Labor Practices Investigation Division are holdovers from the Civic Platform Ben-Joseph administration. The division has cast a wary eye on what considers lax pursuit of the Union’s behavior on the part of some territorial and municipal authorities. General Laborers Union pressure on the Socialists to criticize Secretary Kreisman is becoming more prominent, and some Socialist candidates have been calling for her firing. But in the Dashez, and among Free Democrat candidates, and in the Shrdlu administration support for the secretary remains strong. It is thought that the skilled trades unions are also quietly supportive of Secretary Kreisman’s actions. Although the secondary boycott is a rallying cry for the Socialists this year, much of the General Laborers' legal woes have been bound up in the great volume of litigation pursued by Lucky Diamond's meat suppliers and produce vendors due to financial and product loss in Kelso earlier in the strike.

by **Stevid** » Mon Aug 24, 2020 1:35 pm

Parliament Declares That Holy Empire of the Kingdoms of Stevid and Rubet Will Leave the World Assembly
Royal Assent was granted following nearly a full day of heated debate in The Commons in light of GAR #499

24 Aug

The Unhealthy Relationship

In September last year this paper published a piece on Stevid’s very difficult relationship with the LGBT community and how it directly relates to its fraught relationship with the World Assembly. Back then, the issues at hand were General Assembly Resolutions GAR #467 and #457, “Defending The Rights Of Sexual And Gender Minorities” and “Affordable Transgender Hormone Therapy” respectively. At the time those two issues were the most difficult for the Holy Empire to shoulder politically due in no uncertain terms to the conflation between church and state. Several ministers petitioned the government to renounce its membership to World Assembly, voicing their discontent at the continued meddling in the socio-political affairs of the Empire. The calls were rejected, though not out of hand. Official government policy was to launch an ongoing enquiry into the Empire’s continued membership of the international body – that was until today.

A vote was cast in the General Assembly with a final standing at 12,226 FOR to 4,936 AGAINST. The resolution in question is GAR #499 Access to Abortion.

The very idea of internationally enforceable political resolution to grant free access to abortion clinics paid for by member states, strikes at the very heart of Stevidian Catholic ideology and the political system it inhabits. The discussion the halls of the General Assembly have been calm by all accounts but have included many hostile exchanges between supporters and detractors. Despite some very vocal critics, the outcome of the vote was all but assured (although it can technically be overturned) and that has been evidenced by the overwhelming vocal support in the chambers of the World Assembly. Ambassadors across the world have been quick to praise the resolution for bringing what is seen as a fundamental human right to all its member states.
The same cannot be said for the halls of power within the Holy Empire. Opposition has been loud and fierce; and even the Stevidian mission to the WA was recalled to the Empire hours before the ambassador was due to speak out against the resolution. It was clear from the outset that GAR #499 may finally be the straw that breaks the camel’s back and forces Stevid from the WA.

The aforementioned resolutions in mentioned in the September article thrust the issues of LGBT rights in Stevid into an uncomfortable limelight, and it was those issues that nearly forced the nation’s hand to resign. The government’s policy was still Pro-WA and, while non-conforming nations are seldom punished, for the Empire to do so dilutes the reasoning for even being part of the organisation. Some of the sharper critics of the body in Parliament have said the fact the WA does not routinely enforce its resolutions means there is little point in the organisation altogether, less so being part of it. More vocal supporters for the WA, though still ideologically opposed to the aforementioned GARs, have stated this is a reason to remain and to be able to influence WA policy decisions without consequence. But the flagrant disregard for international law, regardless of how weak, reflects badly on a nation whose core beliefs are founded on honour and principle. Even when opposed by other principles, to disregard one’s own simply to highlight the weakness of an opponent’s resolve and is inherently dishonourable, evidence of bad faith, and outlines flaws in one’s own conviction in that you need only pay lip service to it whenever suits.
It is that final point that had dogged the Stevidian government for the past year. The Empire is ideologically opposed to a great many resolutions passed by the World Assembly, finding loopholes in legislation only goes so far before one day a resolution comes to pass that is simply too thorough to wriggle out of. The resolution for Access to Abortion is one such legislative act that is without a doubt one of the most well written by a WA member state and leaves the Holy Empire of Stevid in a bind with only one foreseeable method of escape.

What is so unpalatable about GAR #499 to the Empire?

The very title, Access to Abortion, is an affront to the religious dogma taught by the Catholic Church in Stevid and official government policy. Abortions in Stevid are prohibited in all cases bar where the life of the mother is threated where abortion is the only means of increasing survival, and instances of rape. While travelling to have an abortion is technically legal, the Holy Office has been known to introduce travel restrictions to prevent it. But the official policy, simply put, is that abortion is illegal. GAR #499 effectively prohibits this policy while introducing damning measures the government and Church will find unpalatable.

S.3 ss.e and ss.f of GAR #499 states “No members may: fail to provide equal protection before the law to recipients or providers of abortion services, or implement policies intended to restrict access to section 7 regulated goods or services.” S.7 of the GAR defining the health and safety practices on accessing legal abortions.
Sub-sections E and F attack the very core of Stevidian moral, political and social principles, by stating it is illegal under WA legislation to prohibit access to abortions, despite the practice being prohibited in member states. It is this transgression on national sovereignty that has so infuriated many in the Stevidian government, whilst delighting the minority opposition ministers of the Democratic Socialist Party (DSP). The resolution goes further still adding that it is mandated that a sexual health clinic capable of offering abortion services be established in the member state and paid for by WA members, including the host nation, as per Section 4 and 5 respectively. The establishment of abortion clinics, essentially against the will of the state enraged clergymen in The Council and throughout the Empire.

The government see GAR #499 as a direct assault on national sovereignty, the Church sees it as a bludgeoning attack on the moral fabric of Stevidian society. Both are vehemently opposed to the resolution and Stevid voted as such. Both cases were to be expected – it is nigh impossible to see where the state ends and Church begins in the Empire, least of all the Stevidian WA mission voting against the motion.

But one key factor maybe dangerously overlooked in the Empire on this issue…
What does the public think?

A number of Pro-Choice and Pro-Life Marches Occurred

The Silent Majority

It is currently Pride Month in Stevid and the usual strict control on festivities, or outright banning, in the interests of moral decency are in full unashamed swing. It is one instance where the Church can really demonstrate its influence over the people and the state. Police presence on Pride marches is high but the frequency of marches is minuscule and thus does not sap resources. This is because of hostile environment in Stevidian society towards the LGBT community. Imperial society practically polices itself in this regard and is due, in part, to indoctrination into the beliefs of the Catholic Church in Stevid. The Church finds a great deal of swelling power when the topic of LGBT rights rears its head and it is a battle it has been winning for a while now. But the one it struggles with is sex, heterosexual sex.

Several government and media outlet polls (those that are anonymous) suggest that while the population that identifies as being in a relationship are almost 80% monogamous, 68% have used or regularly use contraception… and this is allegedly rising. Male and female contraception is surprisingly, and ironically, not banned in the Empire for a variety of reasons. It is one of the few elements of society that the government still retains full control over. Sexual health is a main driver for its legality, and even the Church has been lenient on the use of contraception by sex workers – despite vocal speaking out against it and the sex trade itself. But even a well-established institution like the Church could never hope to eradicate the oldest trade in human history. The Church has focused on the family unit and monogamous relationships to curtail sexually transmitted diseases and promote good sexual health, thus removing the need for contraception – and this has been largely successful. So why the large usage of contraception in such relationships? Pregnancy prevention.

Polls have suggested that Stevidians and other imperial citizens enjoy being able to effectively plan when they have a child. The inability of the Church to control sexual desire and prevent the relentless march of science and progressive liberal attitudes strikes at the very heart of doctrines. Indeed, despite the willingness of the people to embrace and love Catholicism there is clearly an educated belief that having huge families on account of not using contraception is not wholly desirable. The old-fashioned approach to family planning involving menstrual calendars and abstinence, as favoured by the Church, has been all but abandoned and there is little the clergy and Inquisition can do about it. There is evidence of this and it can be seen in a survey conducted by this news agency on the frequency of the topics ‘contraception’, ‘abstinence’, and other related topics in sermons by clergymen. Of the thousands of churches contacted, nearly 70% replied giving their figures over a three-month period – the results equated to about 1 in every 32 sermons was how often the topic was visited. Evidently it is not a top priority for the Church despite the fact under canon law the use of contraception is illegal and even a factor in resolving civil disputes. The lack of coercion and control the church has over modern day sex life behind closed doors is obvious and so it is fitting that the Church focuses on more humanist and moral issues, like abortion, to solidify its grasp on Stevidian society.

This is not to suggest that the quasi-political entity that is the Stevidian Catholic Church is some bogeyman institution wishing to subvert an entire country to its whim (though there are vocal believers of this), for the Church has been a unifying and benevolent force within Stevid during and since communism. The moral virtues it bestows has given the country a unique character and not one to quickly besmirch – there is a belief that while life in its most basic form is cheap (and it has acknowledged as much) it is nonetheless sacred and should be cherished. Stevidians place much value on the life and soul of a human being and this is through the teachings of the priest and sisterhoods of the Empire. The debate over abortion forms a very important keystone of this belief and so the World Assembly resolution guaranteeing the right to one attacks the very core belief system of almost every Stevidian.

The Political Fights

Parliament has been extremely vocal on the issue. Unsurprisingly, the votes in favour of leaving the WA have overwhelmed votes to the contrary. This has not stopped the lower-chambers descending into impassioned debate, with speeches on faith, human rights, moral worth, and what constitutes life. The loudest supporters were those from the True Way of the Cross (TWC) and the Conroy Party.
Cons MP for Jesthorpe and Harlow the Rt Hon Jacob Moor stated with a tremble in his voice, “We are talking about life. Life! Single cell organisms are defined as life and if we discovered the sort on Mars or Europa we could actually conclusively state extra-terrestrial life exists. The thought of eradicating it, purging it, removing it, altering it, would be not only unethical but unfathomable. To suggest we do that very thing to the most intelligent life on Earth, the most intelligent in this planet’s history, is obscene. Yet, the thought of this country and our people having the innate ’human right’ to destroy human life is grotesque We have laws governing death, we have laws governing lawful killing - for it is under God’s and the King’s peace here it is unjust, and that extends to the womb.”

Cons MP for Kryee Southwest Rt Hon Beth Sneddon, also touched on the moral case but also the case of empowerment, “Long have I stood he and contended with the honourable members of this house that the issue of abortion should remain a women’s issue – difficult though that is considering the blending between church and state. Yet I have never found my views unwelcome, nor my words fall on deaf ears on account of my sex, a testament to our laws. But I can stand here as a mother of three and say it is the single most incredible thing to be able to give to the world – children. Every man and women that has been, is now, or ever will be has been born of womankind. It is a true source of empowerment. However, I do not agree that this empowerment of the body then confers the right to me to arbitrarily decide which child lives and which child dies!”

There were few detractors to the this issue at hand, if only because of the current political map of Stevid. That does not mean the voices are silent, on the contrary, it means they shout louder to be heard above the mumbling din. One such voice with CCP MP for West Capita District 22 Karla Scott who stated lengthily, “It is empowered to women to give birth, but it is not always the woman’s choice. I acknowledge that legislation exists to protect women from unwanted pregnancies due to rape and assault – legislation hard fought for by my party against the ‘better wishes’ of the Church. Yet these constrained circumstances are not the only ones by which women fall pregnant against their wishes. The church preaches morality and abstinence that is simply not for purpose in this modern age – the figures prove that this is a battle of hearts and minds they are losing. This barbaric policy of criminalising abortion robs women of true freedom of choice, robs them of absolute control of their bodies, and all but condemns a future generation of unwanted children to a life within orphanages and sisterhoods. I cant deny that the Church does not treat the children under their care well, but if I were to consider that maybe this is want they want so as to guarantee a future of indoctrinated citizens that are preprogramed to be against the furtherment of basic human rights!”

Needless to say the final words of Ms Scott was poorly received by a torrent of cheers. But in a chamber controlled to such a way that individuals can be heard despite their party’s size, her words cut very deep indeed. The battle for abortion rights will not be fought in Stevid under the imposing banner of the WA, for Parliament voted heavily to officially withdraw from the World Assembly, Karla Scott’s words have cast a damning light on the agenda of Church.

by **Holy Marsh** » Wed Aug 26, 2020 1:54 am

Arch-Bishop Lainika Announces Her Impending Death
To Meet Her End in Arena

Mar'si, Holy Marsh, Romani-Mar'si Union- In news that is still shaking the Theocracy to its very core, Arch-Bishop Lainika, Glory of the Holy Marsh, Light of the Endless Fires of Righteous War, announced that a previously undisclosed disease has reached a terminal phase and she has less than a month to live. She will be abdicating her position once she enters the Primacy Cleaning Arena. Sources indicate she will have her pick of the many millions of current Slaver POWs currently in Marshite camps, with her goal being to kill slavers until she is finally killed herself.

The Cardinal Council was informed late last night and have already summoned its members to begin the Conclave to decide who shall replace Lainika in the position of Arch-Bishop. As always getting information out of the Council has been difficult at best, but sources indicate that Cerisa Alahana, the Radical Cardinal of the Female Shrine, is the current frontrunner. However, such early information has often been wrong and the Conclave will run through more than four dozen possible candidates during its time.

The exact disease that the Arch-Bishop is being felled by is unknown, but it is believed to be one she has had for several decades due to mutagenic weapon use during the Long War. As a Holy Warrior, the Arch-Bishop has refused the use of the Medical System that could ostensibly cure her, even at this late hour. As the exact methods and ways of producting the machines that make up the System are unknown, the Holy Warriors continue to refuse to them despite the System's ability to heal nearly any wound and disease no matter the severity or advancement.

Reaction from Union Member States has been universal in its...

[...Non-Church Visitor Detected: Confirm Shrine Membership or purchase subscription to continue)

Thought for the Day:

01010111 01100101 00100000 01100010 01100001 01110011 01101011 00100000 01101001 01101110 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01100111 01101100 01101111 01110010 01111001 00100000 01101111 01100110 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01001000 01101111 01101100 01111001 00100000 01001101 01100001 01110010 01110011 01101000 00101110 00100000 01010100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01000100 01101001 01110110 01101001 01101110 01100101 00100000 01001101 01100001 01100011 01101000 01101001 01101110 01100101 00101100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01001111 01110010 01101001 01100111 01101001 01101110 00100000 01101111 01100110 00100000 01100001 01101100 01101100 00100000 01001100 01101111 01100111 01101001 01100011 00100000 01100001 01101110 01100100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01001111 01110010 01101001 01100111 01101001 01101110 00100000 01101111 01100110 00100000 01100001 01101100 01101100 00100000 01010010 01101001 01100111 01101000 01110100 01110011 00101110 00100000 01010000 01110010 01100001 01101001 01110011 01100101 00100000 01100010 01100101 00100000 01110100 01101111 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01000100 01101001 01110110 01101001 01101110 01100101 00100000 01001101 01100001 01100011 01101000 01101001 01101110 01100101 00101110 00100000 01010000 01110010 01100001 01101001 01110011 01100101 00100000 01100010 01100101 00100000 01110100 01101111 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01001000 01101111 01101100 01111001 00100000 01001101 01100001 01110010 01110011 01101000 00100000 01100001 01101110 01100100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01000011 01101000 01101111 01110011 01100101 01101110 00101110 00100000 01001101 01100101 01100011 01101000 01100001 01101110 01101001 01100011 01110101 01101101 00100000 01000111 01101100 01101111 01110010 01101001 01101111 01110011 01100001 00100001 00100000 01000010 01100101 01110100 01110111 01100101 01100101 01101110 00100000 01001101 01100001 01100011 01101000 01101001 01101110 01100101 00100000 01100001 01101110 01100100 00100000 01010111 01101111 01101101 01100001 01101110 00101100 00100000 01010000 01100101 01110010 01100110 01100101 01100011 01110100 01101001 01101111 01101110 00100001 00100000 01000111 01101100 01101111 01110010 01111001 00100000 01110100 01101111 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01010011 01101001 01101110 01100111 01110101 01101100 01100001 01110010 01101001 01110100 01111001 00100001

by **Castille de Italia** » Wed Aug 26, 2020 2:16 pm

Pictured: The remains of the car bombing on Western and Bishop in Torrington that killed Giancarlo family caporegime "Big John" Ferrito on August 17. (CBC Photo/Released)

Torrington Gang War Reaching 'Intolerable Levels', says President Faring
President Faring threatens to "send in the Feds" if Torrington police force and Provincial police cannot quell violent crime
Joachim Constanz (@JConstanzCBS)
^{August 17, 2031 4:05 PM | Preslaff, CasFed}

TORRINGTON, Castillia — In the largest city and the financial heart of the Castillian Federation, a violent gang war has been raging all summer after the boss of the Gigante crime family, Antonio Gigante, was assassinated at his daughter's wedding by Giancarlo family associates in early June this year. Since then, over 37 bombings have been carried out and 147 people killed in what many are calling the "Bloody Summer". The Torrington Police Authority is struggling to contain the violence as it is undermanned and underfunded, according to Torrington Police Patrolman's Union President Larry Castligiano, who is a watch sergeant with the city's 7th Precinct.

The latest death came last Monday when a car bomb killed Giancarlo caporegime John Ferrito as he started his car outside an Amanitte restaurant on Western St. and Bishop St. in the Lower Dens neighborhood of Torrington. Ferrito was also the president and business agent of the International Brotherhood of Longshoremen and Dock Workers Local 603, and is remembered as a strong advocate of worker's rights and a voice for the rank and file within the longshoreman's union. As a union organizer, Ferrito sometimes declared work stoppages, as frequently as 25 per day, to demonstrate to company owners his authority on the docks. Ferrito was acquitted of labor racketeering charges last year after indicted by the Federal Attorney for the Eastern District of Rhones-des Alpes.

Torrington Police carried out arrest warrants in regards to Ferrito's death for Roman Cruz, a known associate of the Mokan-based Salamanca Cartel, and Jimmy Castello, suspected of being an associate of the Gigante family, last night in the Lower Dens.

Ferrito's assassination marks the violent realignment of the crime families in Torrington as information provided to CBC have stated that the Gigante family is now allying itself with the Salamancas, who were at one time bitter enemies of the Amanitte crime families based in the Castillian Federation. Cruz was formally charged after his arrest for the assassination of Ferrito, while Castello has yet to be charged and is from information CBC gathered, fighting his arrest via popular mob attorney Russell Gigante.

Torrington Police Authority Chief Michael Greene has stated that his department is doing everything it can to contain the situation, a statement that Mayor Andy Poretto says he stands behind. However, President of the Federation John Faring has stated his dissatisfaction with Greene and Poretto's job of handling the gang war.

"If Mayor Poretto cannot fix this situation and prevent street hoodlums from killing innocent people, I will use my presidential powers to send in Federal law enforcement and clean up the city," Faring said in a press conference on August 24. "I will not tolerate lawlessness in this country, and neither will the good Castillian citizens of this great nation."

Faring's comments have forced the Federal Attorney General Jack McKeithen into a corner, who has long been adamant about refusing to acknowledge that an organized criminal conspiracy still exists with the Castillian nation. Torrington's gang war is reminiscent of the gang wars of the 1970s and 1980s that plagued Castillian cities, as an overall violent crime wave dominated the era across the Greater Dienstad region as well. McKeithen, who considers himself a progressive for justice, has stated in the past he does not agree with using Federal agents to fix judicial and criminal matters at the municipal level.

Some speculate that Faring intends to replace McKeithen in the very near future, as the two have frequently begun to clash after McKeithen voiced his displeasure with the President authorizing recent large-scale military exercises that included nuclear weapons, which McKeithen argued was past his executive powers.

Overall, many in Torrington are in fear as there seems to be no end in sight for the gang war, as six men, alleged to be connected with organized crime, were found stabbed to death underneath a highway underpass early this morning. The scene remains under investigation by the Torrington Police Authority and the Rhones-des Alpes Provincial Police Service.

MORE IN CASTILLIA

Senate of the Federation passes rentier state reform bill [ 349818 ]
Poll: Torrington citizens lack confidence in Mayor Poretto, police Chief Greene [ 81276 ]
Grantham sees 3rd day of unrest after former judge acquitted of murder charges [ 67521 ]
Trans-Castillia Railways reportedly to announce massive infrastructure project in Greal with several joint foreign investors [ 514328 ]

by **Stevid** » Thu Sep 10, 2020 5:40 am

Imperial Broadcasting Corporation News

First Economic Foray into Gholgoth
by Stevidian Based Company
The Private Military Contractor SternGuard becomes the
first Stevidian Based Company to Work Within the
‘Region of the Damned’

Thu 1 Oct

SternGuard has rocked
the capital's financial sector

Private Military Contractor (PMC) SternGuard has taken on board a training and development contract in the Confederate States Anagonia, which resides within the region of Gholgoth. SternGuard, which has its head office in Stevid Capita, took the contract in the face of political pressure from the Stevidian government that maintains a policy of aversion and distrust towards the region due the hostile nations that reside there. SternGuard PMC are notable for answering to no one nation and belief that their right to trade and provide security transcends borders. This mission to Gholgoth was reported in the Capita Financial to much surprise in the city’s economic sector and distain in government.

The Holy Empire itself does not impose sanctions on companies trading with nations reside in Gholgoth, but face heavy law and financial record scrutiny by the security services to prevent hostile state actors from the region undermining the Empire’s economic integrity. Almost all Stevidian companies abide by this ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ or trade with Gothic states via a third party proxy but this has changed with SternGuard’s latest contract.

The contract itself is benign and involves several hundred personnel based semi-permanently within one of the major military academies of Anagonia delivering bespoke training and consultations on battlefield triage and casualty management. The contract is reported to be relatively short but remains open ended to be a permanent solution to the Anagonian military should SternGuard meet expectations. But far from this being a celebratory affair, the government has decried the PMC as being ‘irresponsible and naïve’ but with little in the way of context. There has now been a surge of voices from the capital’s economic establishments for the government to take a more critical and objective look at trading with the Gothic states.

Current government policy is that any company can trade with any nation that is not place under Imperial Sanction or that has been condemned by the World Assembly. Despite the Empire having left the World Assembly, that final decree remains extant as official policy. As it stands the only two nations within Gholgoth who have been sanctioned as such are the infamous Dread Empire of Automagfreek and The Kraven Corporation. Further to this, Greater Dienstad’s central power bloc heavyweight, the Golden Throne of The Macabees, is embroiled in alengthy and bloody inter-regional war with members of Gholgoth including The Scandinavians.
The Stevidian government has stated with a large degree of ambiguity that, “By taking this contract SternGuard is being irresponsible and naïve. They will allow themselves to be used as a viable inroad into the state affairs of this Holy Empire and could inadvertently undermine our national security and that of the Triumvirate Alliance.” When pushed for further clarification the Lowlands representative for government did not elaborate but implored SternGuard officials to ‘reconsider’.

Who are SternGuard and why is this deal controversial? - Analysis
Nicole Aximan
Defence Correspondent

Names of private military companies such as Convenant Security Concerns and M-CAT of Holy Marsh, USG, and Locke & Keye (L&K) are considered household names within the private security industry; L&K has been subcontracted by the Stevidian government to quell dissident elements in northern Liberated America. But SternGuard is a relatively new arrival on the big stage, although they have officially been around for quite sometime – since the Blackhelm Confederacy’s involvement in north-west Greater Dienstad and the seizure of developing nation’s natural resources. The company finds its routes with individuals from Stevid’s most affluent economic and political heavyweight that had all received knighthoods for service to the Empire and Crown. However these individuals took umbrage towards the lack of will and desire from the Holy Empire to become involved in conflicts with a clear case of ‘right and wrong’ while deliberately maintaining hostile relationships with nations on the grounds of ideology and even belief. Examples include deliberately maintaining poor relations with Automagfreek on religious grounds while overlooking many political and societal crimes of the country. Another such example is AHSCA, that Stevid had only recently officially recognised as a sovereign state but still maintains frosty relations all stemming from the AHSCA War of Independence that remains a dark scar on the Empire’s past.
The company deals in many security arrangements and is the largest in the Holy Empire, while not being directly affiliated. SternGuard maintains dozens of contracts with the Imperial Home Office and Ministry of Defence.

SternGuard core tenants, which they term as ‘values and standards’, transcends borders, political ideology and ego. This had led to an exponential growth of recruits from around the region and Stevid, where soldiers feel aggrieved at treatment or the direction the Empire has gone. In relation to that reasoning, SternGuard is notable for having one of the largest contingent of Stevidian-Marshite warriors outside of the Holy Marsh due to discriminatory Stevidian terms of service (The MOD has stated that since the recent Synod between the Catholic Church and high representatives of the Holy Marsh that this service requirement is under review). SternGuard are technically based in Stevid but maintain a huge network of facilities which include a land fortress in Stevidian South Greal and two huge offshore platform complexes in international waters. Given the stringent conditions sometimes placed on companies by the government, quiet voices of discontent regarding the SternGuard head office in Stevid Capita are now postulating that the office should move the home of free market enterprise and deregulation – the Golden Throne.

The deal is so controversial because SternGuard, applying its own principles, has flown in the face of common practice in the capital and defied government policy on Gholgoth. That is to not trade, at least not directly. Many Stevidian companies move money and trade in and out of Gholgoth member states (which are not under direct sanction) through a third party proxy, which is normally the Golden Throne and then through an imperial dominion such as Adaptus Astrates. Because the government policy is technically ‘unofficial’, companies utilise this back door to trade liberally. It has not been unknown for smaller companies to trade directly, but heavy-handed interference from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the police and Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) usually puts an end to trade over the course of several months. SternGuard’s offices will no doubt be subject to such scrutiny, legitimate though the actions may be. In truth, the contract between SternGuard and Anagonia may well be as benign as it looks but the state retains the authority to makes sure it stays that way. Such intervention may well push SternGuard out of Stevid altogether and into the wildlands of the deregulated Golden Throne. For a PMC that knows no borders, this is now almost an inevitability.

Possible Changes in Official Policy

SternGuard operative training
in Stevidian South Greal

Despite the short and charged response from the government there is little to suggest a sweeping policy change that will affect the city’s economic sector to trade abroad. The agreements remain extant and there is no change to company operating procedures. However, for Stern Guard to fly in the face of known government ‘unofficial’ policy sets a precedent to other companies. All comments directed to the government on whether it make public enquiries into the business dealing between Anagonia and SternGuard were rebuffed with no direct comment. But there has been outspoken discontent against the ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ that business should not trade directly with Gholgoth.

The government has denied that there are immediate plans to make the unofficial policy official, but political analysts and think tanks of have suggested that the government may not have a choice. One such think tank, the Economic Outreach Group, stated on record that “if companies continued in the same line as SternGuard then the government could not keep to its policy of keep the business dealings under police surveillance – which is essentially what they do. The government lacks the money or manpower to watch X-thousand companies.” There was then the suggestion that should the government bring in legislation essentially sanctioning trade against any and all Gothic states it could lose them an election, and that more focused sanctions while allowing trade against states more conforming to Stevidian principles should be allowed.

SBCN - Stevidian Broadcasting Company Network
IBCN - Imperial Broadcasting Corporation News
"God Save the King"
"God Save the Empire"

by **The Macabees** » Sat Sep 12, 2020 10:27 am

SIX FIRMS & THE IMPERIAL BUREAUCRACY JOIN PUBLIC-PRIVATE AGREEMENT
TO PROVIDE FREE BROADBAND INTERNET ACCESS TO ALL
IN GREATER DÍENSTAD & BEYOND

The Imperial Bureauracy announces the new project, dubbed PROYEKT LIBERTY FOR ALL,
in conjunction with six other companies spanning across the empire — from Nicaro to New Empire.

FEDALA — An imperial spokesperson confirmed today of a Ŗ20 billion+ project to provide free broadband, wireless internet to all peoples of Greater Díenstad and neighboring regions. This free service will be provided for by a satellite constellation consisting of more than 4,000 satellites, a large percentage of which have already been launched, positioned, and put into service over the past four years. The Imperial Bureaucracy is joined by six companies, DíenBank, Voikerp International, Alba Daco, Comunicás, Tagax, and Accelafeed. Originally intended to provide universal access to internet throughout the empire, its territories, and its dependencies, the Imperial Bureaucracy now aims at giving access to the free flow of information to the oppressed peoples of the Fourth Reich, the destitute of Ralkovia, and even those living beyond the borders of Greater Díenstad.

Notable about the project is that of the six companies joining the venture, two are based in the provinces and four are headquartered elsewhere in the empire. DíenBank, in Macabea, and Accelafeed, in Beda Fromm, represent the empire's core. Voikerp is headquartered in New Empire, Alba Daco in Indras, Comunicás in Safehaven, and Tagax in Theohuanacu. The arrangement is one of the multitude of efforts to forge a new pan-imperial identity by including all peoples of the Golden Throne, whether citizens of territorials, in its perpetual march toward a better future.

Services will reportedly be available in different tiers. A basic free service will be available to all, with a guaranteed minimum speed of 50 mpbs. Paid services will be available also, for those seeking higher speeds. Each company has free choice in the number of satellites to fund, retaining the right to cost-free rent of the equipment and also the right to its exclusivity. This agreement would be perpetual until the end of the asset's lifecycle. The government has also opened up the program to other companies willing to make an investment. Why the inclusivity? It's for the competition, with the want of avoiding high fees and predatory practices.

Satellites and other infrastructure will be manufactured by a variety of Macabéan companies, with the contract distributed by the company funding the asset. However, all equipment must follow the universal standard set by the Kosmohans, the imperial space agency, and must be inspected a number of times throughout the process.

Mona Lisandra, Director of the Kosmohans since the retirement of Darajo Candac, spoke of the program this morning in a televideo conference broadcasted after the initial announcement. Her words and tone imply the intention to cooperate with foreign companies and space agencies looking to be involved with the project. "Project Liberty For All will forever change the lives of hundreds of billions across Greater Díenstad and the world. It's a promise and guarantee for the free flow of information, no matter where you live and regardless of the tyranny of your government. Agencies who represent freedom-loving governments are welcome to join us in our endeavor, and foreign companies are invited to invest in the future. This is an ambitious project with a lot of work ahead of it, and there is enough room for all of us."

However, memories of the kessler persist, as do memories of the cost of its clean-up. There is an informal ban on space warfare, imposed as a result of the kessler. However, the Golden Throne is the only nation to have enforced it, when it struck Morridane satellites used to drop kinetic munitions on Imbrinumian holdings in Mordent. Whether the ban will stand in a total war — including the current one in Krasnova and the Killian Republic — is up to question. Will the Golden Throne now seek a more formal arrangement? And how will go about enforcing it?

The geopolitical implications of Project Liberty For All are obvious. Not only does the program invite an escalation in the enforcement of "peace in space," it also pushes the tyrannies of Greater Díenstad and the world back toward the wall. How are they likely to react? Consider how frail peace between nations already is, with a war against the Reich raging almost every year since their temporary occupation of South Panooly.

Will Project Liberty For All succeed only in aggravating international political tensions further?

All the same, the objective of providing universal internet access to all peoples of the region and the world is laudable. Mrs. Lisandra is correct in stating that it will change the lives of hundreds of billions. Billions of lives have already been changed for the better, as this service has become more stable and reliable throughout the territories and satrapies. No matter if you're from a city like Vasozia in Indras, or a jungle village in Nicaro, or even if you live under the surface of the Earth in New Empire, you can enjoy free, guaranteed access to the wider world.

Governments who actively participate in information suppression will see their efforts thwarted. As a result, many claim that the project is primarily targeted at the Fourth Reich, which is not only fighting a war with the Golden Throne over Krasnova and the Killian Republic, but also combating a ferocious insurrection in Deutsche Scythia. Using cell phones smuggled in by traders and other agents, Scythian insurgents have released photos and videos of the carnage in a continuous stream, setting off another wave of condemnations of Ordenite behavior towards its subjects. Project Liberty For All is a weapon against governments who use the control of information to manipulate the sentiments of their people.

Project Liberty For All stands the chance to revolutionize the access to information throughout Greater Díenstad and the world. With support of a wider international political community it would certain enjoy an otherwise unattanabile security, but even without it the tenacity of the Golden Throne and the weight of its authority are powerful enough columns to support the weight of such an ambitious endeavor.

The Imperial Bureaucracy's spokesperson said that services will roll out in phases, with countries closer to the Golden Throne receiving access within the next year. This includes the Fourth Reich and its holdings in Gholgoth. Full regional access is expected in five to seven years, with the intended breadth of the project completed within ten.

IN OTHER NEWS:

→ Heavy fighting breaks out in Panooly City, prompting the Ejermacht to increase its security forces in the country. A spokesperson said that the imperial garrison in Holy Panooly was set to quadruple in the next six months with the ongoing return of the Gothic War veterans.

→ Delapesca's historic quarters have been reopened to the general public since they were destroyed by fire during the civil war. The city was rebuilt with the money and support of the Imperial Bureaucracy, and it will serve as the capital of the Angupasto Prefecture. The emperor is said to be planning a visit to attend to the official unveiling of his triumphal arch in the city.

→ 116 insurgents surrendered themselves in southeastern Nuevo León last month, as the violence continues to die down. Flare ups persist and authorities are blaming Cerfontaine militias operating on the other side of the territorial border between Nuevo León and Guffingfordi Cerfonlande.

→ Dasch revolts again, but the uprising is quickly suppressed by imperial troops already garrisoned outside the city on the surface. Construction of a new city on the surface has begun, with the intention of repopulating much of Dasch's lower inhabitants where they will be easier to control.

→ Territorial authorities have begun a general repopulation program of the Indran people living in the territory's interior through a combination of public building programs, subsidies on agricultural machinery, and other programs intended to promote urbanization and entrepreneurship.

by **Eitoan** » Mon Sep 14, 2020 2:27 pm

www.News-Herald.et.com

Annual Foreign Policy Address
Shrdlu Assesses Federal Ralkovia Role viz NMAA.
Updates to Naval Planning, Budgeting

President Ephraim Shrdlu today in his annual foreign policy address informed the nation of developments toward possible integration of Federal Ralkovia with the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement (NMAA) as an observer state. Although not unexpected, such a role for Federal Ralkovia had not been bandied about publicly, pending tentative approval from all NMAA member states. That hurdle appears to have been cleared, as stated by the President. In his address delivered this morning, he stated “As is traditional since 1922, it is my honor and privilege to present to you, the Eitoan people the status of our foreign relations in this week prior to September 19th, Independence Day. Looking back over the Republic’s history, the principles of those patriots of 1901 hold true today as they did then. In those days the men and women that founded this republic fought to rid the nation of an unwanted slaveholding oppression. And now that oppression has been lifted from large parts of Ralkovia, where free men and women are taking the first steps toward fulfilling the promise of a market economy under a democratic government, guided along the way by the Eitoan example. And to this end, in the interests of security for the Federation of Ralkovian States (FRS), and the self-determination for the Ralkovian people, I am instructing the Department of Foreign Affairs to initiate discussions with FRS Foreign Minister Kartografst Sv’rath regarding possible observer status in the NMAA. I have done so after a round robin discussion with Palmyrion Chancellor Ricardo Duterte, Timocratic Republic President General Marai Overhill, and Relican Prime Minister Michael Francis. Discussions with Chancellor Duterte have been very warm, and viewing his popularity with Eitoans, I would welcome a visit by him to Vladarsik.

We initiate this opportunity for Federal Ralkovia in recognition that in the last analysis the future of that nation is in the hands of the Ralkovian people themselves, and in the belief that through the superiority of the free enterprise system over the slaveholding past Federal Ralkovia will overtake Regime Ralkovia, and the remnants of the Raskovs in the Raumfestung. With a view toward the future, as the FRS self defense capabilities expand, the financial strain on the Alliance of maintaining a garrison to safeguard the FRS borders will diminish. The concerns of some both in Eitoan and in the Alliance regarding incorporation of former Raskov loyalists into the higher ranks of the FRS Self Defense Force are noted, but over time the new generation of Ralkovians raised under the bright sunshine of democracy will come to the forefront. It is our duty as an occupying power to see to this, and a greater integration of the FRS with the continental democracies will go a long way toward that objective.

As I mentioned earlier, discussions with Chancellor Duterte have been warm, and a recent analysis by the Naval Force Planning Commission (NFPC) has indicated the most cost effective approach to upgrading the Bay of Chains fleet is through purchase of several Elizabeth Tanalgo class nuclear powered guided missile destroyers, as opposed to development of similar vessels entirely within Eitoan shipyards. I have discussed this also with Chancellor Duterte, and purchase of several of these is under negotiation. Some research and development is planned for the initial purchases. The ships carry 2 x 324mm triple torpedo tubes (1 starboard, 1 portside), and these use NMAA standard munitions. A proof of concept test will be conducted for use of our GT-7a model torpedo, also NMAA standard, for evaluation of guidance system performance, and performance under Bay of Chains conditions. The ISN/SYQ.9 “Intramuros-N” Naval Battlespace Management System is used by the vessel to optimize command and control of a force, supporting the efficient use of resources. This is a proprietary technology, and is state of the art. This too will be evaluated, and where advantages may be found for use in the Eitoan Navy our software developers will enter into discussions with its developers, Serrato-Guzman Industries, CloudNine Softworks, and the Royal Commonwealth Military-Industrial Cooperative regarding adaptations. The ships use the ISN/SSQ-14 Integrated Electronic Warfare and Support System as its primary Electronic Warfare and Electronic Support system. This too is NMAA standard. Naval Operations will meet with Palmyrian counterparts early in the process to apply lessons learned in interdiction of Regime Ralkovian traffic in the Bay of Chains, particularly in the areas of SIGINT and full spectrum jamming. What we want when commissioning these destroyers is a fleet capable of efficient patrol and engagement in the waters of the Bay of Chains and the Aman Passage.

ES Potofsky Littoral Combat Ship

What this means to the taxpayer is that through cost savings by purchase of Tanalgo class destroyers, we can also increase construction of the new Potofsky class Littoral Combat Ships. These Littorals are the key component of the Great Inland Sea fleet, vital to our interests in the central continent. And the reallocation of resources made possible through the Tanalgo purchases will telegraph to a reduction in this year’s and subsequent naval appropriations. This should be seen as relief to the taxpayer, and satisfy the concerns of those in the legislature over the naval budget.”

by **Haishan** » Wed Sep 16, 2020 9:02 am

-<HCNA>-
Haize Central News Agency

HAIZE DASKO PERIODICAL

INTERNATIONAL VERSION

Promising Interceptor 9D15 for HC-700 Zashynik Aerospace Defense Complex Passed All State Trials
Long range anti-aerospace missile 9D15 can hit strategic aviation and other hypersonic objects

Launch of promising interceptor 9D15. Image: Haishan Defense Ministry

ICTURK CITY, SEPT 16, HCNA - Haishan Defense Ministry had disclosed on successful State Trials of promising long range interceptor 9D15 for upcoming HC-700 Zashynik (English : Defender) strategic aerospace defense complex. The new missile adopted a completely different paradigm whereby it was based on Haize 4M07 Beryl scramjet-propelled strike missile.

The creator company Malachiz Precision Plant highlighted it was unique cooperation with Hahao Kinematics Institute, to blend aerospace defense sector with high energy assault vector. Like its precursor 4M07, the prospective interceptor 9D15 travels at approximately average speed of three kilometers per second, or Mach 9 to hit targets more than 700 km away.

9D15 is designed to provide middle layer aerospace defense capability to HC-700 complex on countering strategic aviation such as Lyran Dragonhawk nuclear-powered supersonic bomber and hypersonic maneuvering weapons similar to 4M07 class. The mobile HC-700 strategic defense also features other interceptors that are still undergoing State Trials.

by **Free Kolechia** » Mon Sep 21, 2020 9:47 am

Voice of Kashgar
Republic of Kolechia

Initial Meeting With Golden Throne Reaches Stalemate

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released information about an unexpected and last minute meeting, that was held with the Macabean Government. The head of Foreign Affairs Timur Eldarkhanov, requested a personal meeting with the Golden Thrones Ambassador, Loren Jenal here in Kashgar. Both he and his staff made it clear that there are some details about the meeting that will be temporarily withheld, pending their review, but that all of the report should be made available in time.

There are many major leading nations in the region and the Golden Throne is among them currently and historically. The Government has maintained formal relations with the Golden Throne for years, though diplomatic interactions with them have been minimal in that time. Historically, when domestic issues did not draw the Republic's attention away, Kolechia has usually sought to meet and view the Imperial Government (and Greater Dienstad) with neutrality.

Recently it was announced via Macabean sources that the nation would be assisting in a historic deal, to provide free internet for the entire Region. It was also made clear that this is being directed especially at the UWO, who has been in massive, bloody, sporadic conflicts in the last few years, as well as Ralkovia. On the face of it, this seems like an idea that the government would get behind. However, that was not the case, as the Foreign Ministry said it had cited a list of issues. Mr. Eldarkhanov did not cite all the issues but said "the plan, its language, and what it heavily implies has only been received here as a warning, and at worst for some of my colleagues, a threat." He also revealed that during his discussion with Ambassador Jenal, a request to exempt our nation was rebuffed. However, the Ambassador and the Golden Throne, remained willing to discuss solutions to the issue.

President Safadi himself weighed in and expressed disappointment on the idea's announcement. He admitted that on one hand part of his platform was about transforming our international relations, forging new diplomatic and economic relationships. The basic idea of free internet for the region, would at least bring untold numbers of people together with the possibility of communication. Ultimately however, he did not approve for the same reasons as the Foreign Ministry, and argued against critics and opposition that "It did not matter what route our country took in this region, or who was elected. This was a plan they were going to put into motion regardless."

by **Potthan** » Sat Oct 10, 2020 4:34 pm

THE IMPERIAL INQUIRER
Informing Potthan since 1884

Emperor Jericho Forms New Branch of the Armed Wing

Imperial Counsel Discussing Formation of IIS

Last week Emperor Jericho III met with his military advisory board and put together a new branch of the Armed Wing dubbed "International Inquisition Services" to combat a new threat emerging from Barjaanistan: Potthani Brotherhood. The Potthani Brotherhood is an insurgent force originating from Barjaanistan consisting of fighters from across the region with the goal of establishing an ethnostate in western Bartjaanistan and eastern Potthan.

This radical group believes in Potthani superiority as described in local mythology. As of current, there have been 27 attacks against civilians claimed by The Potthani Brotherhood in the border region. Barjaani intelligence reports around 10,000 active combatants in The Potthani Brotherhood, however the newfound Imperial Inquisition Services suspects even more combatants.

The Imperial Counsel has deemed The Potthani Brotherhood a terrorist organization and urges other nations in Greater Dienstad with Potthani immigrants who practice native mythology to monitor this group. More information about this organization can be inquired from your local police or on https://www.imperialpolice.phn/factbook/potthani_brotherhood/

This article has been fact checked and approved by the Imperial Board of Information
This article has been translated for international readers by the Imperial Board of Information in conjunction with the Imperial Board of Tourism

by **AHSCA** » Wed Oct 14, 2020 2:15 pm

Congress Evaluates Citizenship Rite Question, Who Gets to be a Citizen?

Asuka Kotobuki, Sr. Reporting Staff

The rainy season may be upon us but the Congress is as busy as ever still trying to finish up their agenda held over from the previous year. The biggest item leftover on the agenda is in regards to Article VIII of the UIS Constitution the needs of citizenship. As is so written,

Citizenship of the UIS is so granted to those who

-Those born within the borders of the islands of AHSCA and outlying territories or diplomatic missions

-Those born to families of islanders while outside the Islands AHSCA and outlying territories.

-Those who have resided for a period of more than ten years.

-Those jointly granted a rite of citizenship by the Royal Family to personas of foreign nations.

-Those married to a citizen of the States.

As is, pretty cut and dry many would say, but times have changed dramatically since the writings of these text and some are now wondering if its time to revaluate the text and the rites of citizenship in these islands. In the closing days of the Great War of Independence, many islanders found themselves displaced having fled the terrors of violence, taken prisoner on the battlefield or stuck in a foreign port as a stateless citizen during the conflict. With that in mind it's easy to see why the framers of the UIS Constitution felt the need to make very broad sweeps in citizenship, if only to save on long bureaucratic headaches of trying to reintegrate those slowly returning home in the aftermath of the war and those brought home through the Government's broad sweeping programs to bring people home.

But 25 years later, residents of the UIS and their appointed representatives have begun asking if the framework is now too broad and needs to be reduced. With only so much land to offer and so many places to be, it's a real concern for many, especially in this day, where AHSCA is home to two military installations held by foreign powers that have offered their guardianship over us, and the massive boom in tourism for folks seeing a lovely tropical vacation or wanting to experience our joyful festival of Holy Light. Odds are increasingly likely that at some point, a visiting national who is with child may inevitably give birth to a child upon our soil and thus under the strict interpretation of the text, be considered a citizen of the UIS without having any residence here.

In Congress, there's now a movement to commence a Constitutional Convention to revise the text of Article VIII to strike the first text or expand upon it and the two dominate parties of UIS politics have their proposals about the future of the article. The United Island Party (UIP) hopes to largely persevere the text but merge it into the second potential condition. The National Liberal Party is seeking to repeal the final point and mandate only those born to parents at home or abroad be considered while reducing the residency need to five years. Among the UIS' minority non standing parties, most seem to be in concurrence with the ideas of the two parties. The noted exception however seems to be coming from General Sturnum of Stillstando Island who hopes to reduce the article to those born only to AHSCAian parents be considered as rightful citizens and is directing the State's sitting Senators to do so. General Sturnum's plans would dictate a new class of citizen as "Natural born" and "Residing alien" a current status that is not in use in the UIS, currently there are only citizens or visiting nationals, again thanks to the relaxed methods of granting citizenship, marriage from those outside the state can be considered immediate citizens.

Special note from reporter: It should be noted that while Governors can compel or "whip" their delegates to vote certain ways, there's no mandate or legal enforcement for them to do so, because Senators are directly elected by the nation.

Duchess Villa has not said one way or another if she'll consider the revised text, especially considering Duchess has been in an ongoing relationship with the Princess of Kyrenaia, Princess Aurelia bint-Damir, which could complicate matters. Also complicating matters, it's known the daughter of Mervay's Foreign Minister is also married to an AHSCAian islander so it's for certain the UISC will have to work through a grandfather provision or possibly retain the text as is. Senator Miela of Corona has stated she's in favor of a reexamination, "I feel a long time has passed and it's good to go back and see if the text needs improvement and clarification. Of course we'll want to be mindful of those who are here before and we'll want to be mindful of those that seek citizenship here."

Speaker Pacifica of Corona seems to echo the same sentiments but feels more reserved, "I would prefer to seek the Consent of Her Royal Highness before moving forward. We are not compelled too by law but she can easily compel this legislation to fail if Aurora declines to ratify. Her voice is paramount to this if we move forward. We must tread lightly." Among the other states, Hoshino Island has said they would only consider upon the full text but are hesitant as is. Viceroy and Vicerine Li both expressed concern and doubt feeling there's an underhanded nationalist agenda behind this but still trust in the Majority and Minority Leaders to see a fair even deal. Chief Ayla of Corona feels it's too soon to say but she hopes to see the full text but she is showing favor to possibly clarifying the text. On Animalpolis, Millhiore Firianno Biscotti has stated her intent to reject any changes and thus has said Animalpolis will refuse to ratify any such changes. "Our founders who fought and died and risked their lives wanted to ensure all those who wished to call our island home would be able too, to change it now is a travesty. Duchess Villa should reject any such proposal. Let our people be, let our citizens call home whether born here or abroad!"

The Debate will be closed with a final motion vote to proceed or not at the end of the week. Should the Congress move forward all Governors will assemble at the Capital to give their opinions on the intended replacement text, after that the text will be voted upon in part or whole in which it will go before the states for ratification. Ratification will require three of the five states to vote in favor.

by **The Macabees** » Sat Oct 17, 2020 9:47 pm

ASSORTED STANDFIRSTS

A reformed Ralkovian rump state may join the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement under the guidance of Eitoan.
A cynical Golden Throne extends trust to a valued allied, but expresses concerns regarding opening relations with a former slaver state.

Eitoani Government Begins Discussions on Free Ralkovian Entry to the NMAA
[Eitoan's original article here.]

The Golden Throne's Imperial Bureaucracy expressed concerns over discussions to allow the entry of the Federation of Ralkovian States into the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement (NMAA), citing Ralkovia's slaver state past, including near-war tension with the Golden Throne.[1][2][3] Despite the military occupation of Díenstadi Ralkovia by allied forces, and the political breakup of the slaver state, His Imperial Majesty is always keen to remind us that old habits die hard. Although the Imperial Bureaucracy accepts its secondary role in the NMAA with honor, diplomatic officials have recommended giving the FRS benchmarks of political progress to meet prior to membership, even as an observer state.

All the same, sources report that these same diplomats nevertheless communicated their trust in the Eitoani government to make the right decision. Eitoan's has its own past with Ralkovia, indeed having been a former colony! One that surely provides a perspective of cynicism of its own and one that has surely been considered in the decision-making with the other NMAA member states.

Eitoan is considered an important strategic ally of the Golden Throne, and has helped to defend the empire during its time of need. Too, it tolerated and trusted the Golden Throne even when the latter's decision-making has often been unilateral, such as its decision to establish two floating naval bases in northwestern Greater Díenstadi waters. Fedor I is said to have redoubled his commitment to the mutual defense agreement signed with Eitoan and Relica on several occassions in private conversations with the country's leadership. The empire's military resources will always be available for the defense of the two countries. Furthermore, diplomats have agreed to follow Eitoani leadership on the Ralkovian question, despite concerns.

However, the Imperial Bureaucracy has been candid with their allies. It will not extend the guarantee of defense to the FRS, neither does it quite like the sound of being of equal status to Ralkovia — liberated and reformed as it may be. The only exception to imperial neutrality is in the event of a foreign invasion of FRS by an extra-regional state or force.

Invitation to Cooperate on the Defeat of the Potthani Brotherhood Extended to Jericho III
[Potthan's original article here.]

Declassified military intelligence has confirmed the presence of Potthani Brotherhood members working in conjunction with native terrorist and insurgent groups in Theohuanacu, Zarbia, Indras, Nicaro, Holy Panooly, and New Empire. Their presence has been especially notable in the latter three. To further efforts against them, Fedor I and the Imperial Bureaucracy have officially classified the Potthani Brotherhood as a terrorist organization. Captured members of organizations considered to be terrorist in nature are not eligible to rights extended to foreign combatants, including the right to a trial.

Furthermore, His Imperial Majesty Fedor I is said to have personally extended an offer for mutual aid in the international war against the Potthani Brotherhood. This is said to include the offer of military support in Potthan, and even Barjaanistan. After dramatic military reforms announced this year, counterinsurgency and assimilation operations are conducted by the limikari, who are trained as specialists in this role. Any military contingent deployed to Potthan or Barjaanistan would presumably consist of limikari and would act as a test of their capabilities in their intended role. However, the Potthani response to the offer have yet to be formulated and it may be possible that cooperation between the two countries would take on a more limited shape. Another option is mere military assistance.

There is the additional incentive behind operations in Barjaanistan which revolves around the issue of slavery. Barjaanistan is a slaver state, perhaps a consequence of it being a hotbed of terrorists, insurgents, and all around bad characters. It is unquestionable that the Golden Throne is itching at the opportunity to extend its influence in the region to definitely end slavery in the country.

It is expected that the two leaders will continue talks on mutual cooperation.

Both Cameras of the Senatorial Government Pass E-Politikes Citizenship Rights Extension Program
[Inspired by AHSCA's post here, but also by Richard Davies' Extreme Economies]

After much heated debate, both within the bicameral legislature of the Senatorial Government of the Provinces and outside of it, both the Senate and the Congress of Kingdoms have passed a law creating a new citizenship class open to non-residents of the provinces of the Golden Throne. Known as E-Politikes class citizenship, it is designed to offer entrepreneurs in the territories, and satrapies and abroad a set of commercial rights to stimulate investment in the imperial economy. All non-residents are eligible to apply and the class acknowledges the primary citizenship of the holder to a third-party state. E-Politikes are extended rights to the pan-imperial civil and criminal judiciary system, including the right to defense at the Imperial Bureaucracy's expense. As an extension of this access, they also receive full rights to property and its protection within the pan-imperial judicial jurisdiction.

In part, the new law is meant to help integrate the territorial and satrapical populations into the core economy of the empire, that of its wealthy provinces. Territorials are not citizens of the Golden Throne and neither are populations of imperial satrapies, the latter of which are considered citizens of their own state. However, they hold rights to a complex and extensive set of laws that guarantee them access to the pan-imperial justice system and a fair trial, with the assumption of innocence until proven guilty. They are also granted certain marriage rights, along with the right to vote for representatives in the Congress of Kingdoms — a body which helps regulate the imperial provinces, specifically. The extension of E-Politikes is meant to make territorial and satrapical subjects more aware of their rights with respect to commercial enterprise, entrepeneurship, and investment. These rights include a monthly basic income guarantee in the case of unemployment of 1,500 ríokmark to active inventors who register their inventions with the Imperial Bureauracy.

While E-Politikes class citizenship falls short of a basic income guarantee, the commercial and criminal rights extended are considerable and offer those looking for economic opportunity in the quickly growing economy of the Golden Throne important legal protections. This includes significant opportunities in the territories and satrapies, which are beginning to experience lightning-paced catch-up growth where the civil violence has been adequately quelled.

Citizens belonging to this new class also gain guided access to the Imperial Bureacracy's departments and ministries involved with entrepreneurial and business registration, as well as with the various related marketplaces. The attached digital system also helps connect members to imperial legal, tax, finance, and banking consultants and services. It is designed to make starting a business or becoming an entrepreneur looking to enter the pan-imperial market easier and more streamlined, eliminated a lot of the uncertainty usually associated with becoming an entrepreneur in a foreign country. Most importantly, it allows non-residents a stake in the imperial economy by granting explicit guarantees of access to the pan-imperial market.

Applications may be submitted online, by visiting the e-politikes.tgt and following the instructions on the website. Applicants are subject to background checks within the imperial database for connection to known terrorists and insurgents, and other known federal crimes. For most, the process is quick and painless, rarely taking more than a month to process the application.

Fedor I Underscores Commitment to Universal Freedom of Speech With Uncompromising Universal Internet Access Investment and Policy

The announcement of a global guaranteed basic broadband network has been received with mixed feelings. While the opposition of countries who vehemently suppress the freedom of speech within their own state is to be expected, others have expressed disappointment at the unilateral character of the decision. In response, the Imperial Bureaucracy issued a statement on behalf of His Imperial Majesty Fedor I to reinforce the Golden Throne's commitment to universal broadband access as a basic right to all inhabitants of Greater Díenstad.

However, it recognizes the destabilizing effect that greater access to national news markets can have, especially with the growing menance of "fake news" and a general skepticism in the veracity of national media. As a result, the Golden Throne has agreed to potential discussions on a regional regulatory body that could help protect the integrity of the basic, free network. However, it has made clear its belief that this can potentially harm the seperation of universal broadband access from political influence. It stressed the importance of the private sector as a final arbiter, with the role of the state limited to the protection of the legal right to broadband internet access.

Finally, the statement reiterated the invitation to join the initiative through investment in satellite and other commercial space infrastructure.

by **Castille de Italia** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:14 pm

A New Western Approach: Friendship With Slavers?
Castillian Federation reportedly assisting in Barjaaristani infrastructure development and defense forces.

Pictured: Les Champes Nuclear Generating Station on Des-lacs Champes, Province of Chaleur, Castillia. Among many of the experts sent to Barjaanistan in recent months are
nuclear experts from this power station and others like it, all Federal employees of the Energy Secretariat and other agencies of the Castillian Federation.

Castillian Presence Returns to the West

It appears that after four long years, a greater presence of Castillian foreign policy returns to western Greater Dienstad.

After leaked documents from the Federal Trade Office, and the Energy, State, and Defense Secretariats all confirmed a Castillian policy shift to assist the nation of Barjaanistan, a landlocked country neighboring Potthan. Mountbatten Manor Press Secretary Gloria Gables confirmed the leaked documents, stating that they represent a new approach to dealing with the west. This is unprecedented, as President of the Federation John Faring has repeatedly expressed interest to focus Castillian diplomacy and military efforts closer to home, after the disastrous 'Punitive Expedition' which led to a major skirmish between Castillian and Ralkovian forces and the destruction of a quarter of the 1st Expeditionary Fleet of the Castillian Navy in 2028.

While the failed military operation to bring Ralkovia into compliance with the Amistad Declaration and the CASTLE Accords failed, it catapulted former President Perier into power, and later President Faring who continued to spearhead Perier's restricted foreign policy, declaring the Dienstadi west a "lost cause" and a "lawless, immoral world leaps and bounds from the civilized East." Perier followed up his predecessor, President Henry Adams, by removing all military presences past the regional meridian, most notably from a shared garrison with Imbrinium in the Philotas Isles. Once Faring took office, he took it further, with a complete reorganization of the military, highlighting a need for air and space superiority, and less of an expeditionary role. "Naval dominance of the East, not the entire region, is preferred," said Faring at the commissioning of 10 Nifonese Junsen Type-18 submarines into the Castillian Navy in 2030.

Faring is often looked at as a stark opposite of Adams in Castillian politics. Adams, who sought to champion human rights upon being the first democratically elected leader in Castillia since the fall of the national socialist regime, is often portrayed as a tragic hero, one who was betrayed by his cabinet, those he trusted, after it was apparent he would not bring Castillia into a greater conflict with the former Ralkovian Empire, which was promptly destroyed by an international coalition two years later. On the other hand, Faring is widely viewed by many as an autocrat, as his many political and military reforms have dramatically expanded the role and powers of the President, with the Senate retaining little power and oversight on the presidential office. Faring's record on human and civil rights is also rated as poor by the Dienstadi Tyrannical Watchdog Organization, a multinational human rights organization, citing the widespread use of forced labor in prison populations for public works and penal military units, a new addition under Faring's administration.

Castillian presence in the west may be returning due to the non-existence of the Ralkovian Empire, which has splintered into several different rump states, who was viewed as the most malevolent and powerful entity in the west, if not the whole Dienstadi region, rivaled by maybe the Ordenite Reich. Prof. Hank Chilton, head of the international affairs department of the Preslaff Capital University's School of Government stated that the shift in policy may represent former Castillian ambitions that could not come to fruition because Ralkovia presented a much larger challenge than Castillia could handle at the time. "Ralkovia at its height represented one of the world's largest powers, a nation built upon war, pestilence, and the bondage of man. Singularly, Castillia could not have handled it alone. Why the RMU never stepped in then to assist Castillia is unknown to us and perhaps only known to those within the highest echelons of the RMU leadership. Or perhaps not. Perhaps they just did not care at the time."

What Exactly Are The Castillians Doing In Barjaanistan?

According to the leaked documents, Castillian investment in Barjaanistan ranges from schools and roads all the way to nuclear power, and everything in between. Barjaaristan, a largely undeveloped landlocked desert nation, is ruled by a surprisingly free and fair government for a nation deep-rooted in Potthani mythology, spiritual mysticism among rural citizens, who largely outnumber urban dwellers, and tribal strife. However, being one of the few states left that practices slavery, it has lagged behind its neighbor within the last century, where Potthan is a capable nuclear state that abandoned slavery long ago, Barjaanistan is still suffering the repercussions of being a slave state in the modern world, with little to no diplomatic contact, and being landlocked, is heavily dependent on Potthan for trade and modern culture.

While it was not yet to be announced, the Castillian State Secretariat had brokered a joint project between Trans-Castillian Railways, Barjaanistan Rail Service, and the Castillian Army's Federal Railway Troops to help build a hyperloop between Madinat Al'Ahlam, the rich northern city home to a majority of the nation's entertainment and finance, and Bokawa, a southern city that is the epicenter of the slave trade in Barjaanistan. Such a project would be undoubtedly the first of its kind in the country, if not a majority of western Dienstad. Trans-Castillian Railways did not respond to inquiries for comment regarding this revelation, meanwhile Lt. Gen. Arthur Murray, commander, Railway Forces Command, confirmed that indeed Railway Troops were expected to help assist in a multitude of infrastructure projects in Barjaanistan, to include a potential hyperloop.

A photo posted by a Barjaanistani militiaman on
Accelafeed in late August, depicting a Castillian special forces
advisor (left) and said militaman. The caption read "a new friend
and I". At the time, the Faring administration denied Castillian
defense forces operating in any capacity in Barjaanistan.

The Defense Secretariat went on to confirm that only a battalion of the 23. Mountain Infantry Division and a logistics element made up from the 331. Theater Sustainment Brigade are currently operating in Barjaanistan in an advisor role to Barjaanistani troops deployed in the mountain border region of nothern Potthan and Barjaanistan.

With the now admittance of elements of the Castillian Armed Forces operating or at least planned to operate in Barjaanistan, it poses to what extent do military forces intend to operate? Technically, per the Charter of Establishment for a Federation of Castillian Peoples, informally the Castillian constitution, only the Senate of the Federation may authorize military forces to engage in combat operations abroad. With the prevalence of the Potthani Brotherhood now operating in Barjaanistan, a terrorist organization with global operations, Castillian forces would undoubtedly to expect to engage in combat with such an organization, despite even just in an advisor role. From what has been revealed, Castillian troops in Barjaanistan would and may still likely increase over time, to protect Castillian investments and interests in the region from Potthan, the Potthani Brotherhood, or other actors which whom the Castillian Federation does not enjoy positive relations with. The Defense Secretariat did not confirm whether or not Castillian forces currently in Barjaanistan had engaged in combat operations.

Another major project Castillian have embarked on is establishing Barjaanistan as a nuclear capable state. Whether or not this extends to developing a nuclear deterrent for Barjaanistan remains unknown still, but for the past year, Castillian nuclear experts and engineers have been staying in Barjaanistan, helping the nation develop their first nuclear power generating station, utilizing Barjaanistani-manufactured Castillian-licensed MPPR Kernkraft-400 reactors. Because of the limitations on trade that Barjaanistan has due to being landlocked, uranium is being sourced via mining upstarts in northern Barjaanistan, and Castillian engineers from the Federal government and the Kavinksy Plants overseeing domestic construction of such a massive project.

How Will It Shape Castillian Diplomacy With Other Nations?

Given that now it comes to light that the Castillian Federation is now firmly aligning itself as a benefactor to nefariously immoral slaver states, a far cry from its role as international crusader of freedom and liberty only four years ago, it is bound to have negative ramifications on Castillian foreign policy and diplomacy with many Dienstadi nations, including the People's Unified Federation of Mokastana, one of Castillia's closest allies in the region. With the majority of the Federal government remaining quiet on the why portion of their involvement in Barjaanistan, only acknowledging the leaked documents as authentic, it may see sanctions from more "free" nations on the Castillian Federation, such as Lamoni, one of Greater Dienstad's biggest powers.

The move to support Barjaanistan to such lengths may also pit the Castillian Federation against the Golden Throne. Emperor Fedor I recently extended offers to the Potthani Emperor Jericho III to help provide military assistance to defeat the Potthani Brotherhood, which could lead to incursions by Macabean and Potthani forces across the border into Barjaanistan, an area which is already highly contested and known as a global hotspot for insurgency and fighting despite repeated calls for a ceasefire over the years by numerous nations and international organizations. Historically, Castillia and the Golden Throne have enjoyed neutral, if not slightly positive relations, but with Macabean policy hinting at removing slavery in Barjaanistan, it could lead to a potential conflict of interests between the two powers over Barjaanistan. With the Faring administration's track record on human and civil rights, it seems that Castillian policy is not concerned with slavery in Barjaanistan, or at least ending it. Castillian involvement in Barjaanistan is now likely to the dismay of the Golden Throne, an empire normally looked to as the embodiment of Greater Dienstad and that maintains significant influence over the entire region and much of the world.

The Castillian investments in Barjaanistan, which was likely suspected by Potthani intelligence for awhile now, will also likely put intense pressure on the already-volatile relationship between Castillia and Potthan. Now that much of the Castillian plans for Barjaanistan is in the open, it will make it much harder for Castillians to gain access to Baarjanistan, by which is easiest by air through Potthani airspace. Long-term commitment to Barjaanistan would likely mean establishing permanent military garrisons to assist Barjaanistan security forces against Potthani aggression and utilizing ports of nations in the west who may not be concerned with an Eastern power investing in Barjaanistan, which are far and few in between. Prof. Chilton suggested that with everything in the open now, "the RMU and Imbrinium will likely close their ports to Castillian ships that are obviously headed west to Barjaanistan." Sources from within the State Secretariat state that the agency is bracing for significant political and diplomatic backlash following the revelation of Castillian involvement in Barjaanistan, and the Federal Trade Office is reportedly in talks with many different major trade partners to ease concerns of Castillian violations of international treaties.

Under the CASTLE Accords, the Castillian Federation could technically be held accountable for crimes against humanity as it is aiding and abetting a slaver state. The Castillian Federation is not a signatory, but has generally abided by the accords since the fall of the national socialist regime, although critics point to aforementioned penal military units and prison labor as violations, but such instances can be found among CASTLE signatory nations.

Is It All Worth It?

Prof. Chilton suggests that Barjaanistan represents a pet project of Castillian power fantasy and neo-Imperial ambitions, which effectively were killed with the end of the Castillian Empire in 2001. "Castillia lost most of its Imperial territories after the fall of the Empire in 2001, to include its extraregional holdings in Haven and Tyrhennia. The only addition to the Castillian nation is represented in admitting Castleclose in 2013 after a forceful annexation. Castillians are a stubborn people, and would undoubtedly want to restore themselves to an Empire that once rivaled the Golden Throne."

"It is however a modern world and achieving territorial gains comparable to 2001 is near impossible. The Golden Throne and its power bloc would make such a pipe dream difficult to achieve," Chilton said. He also referenced the alleged conspiracy theory that surfaced months ago that there were war plans by the Castillian Defense Secretariat to annex East Varessa. The Defense Secretariat never confirmed nor denied such allegations, but many within the academic and political realms quickly dismissed the notions, noting that such an act would have met swift response by Lyras, the world's dominant military superpower.

Chilton does end up stating that he thinks Castillian investment in Barjaanistan will likely pay off. "[Faring] obviously saw this as an opportunity to reassert Castillia in Dienstadi affairs. Following the massive military buildup of the Castillian Armed Forces, and his absorbtion of state powers to his presidential office, this may be the first step towards greater Castillian dominance in Dienstadi affairs, something that diminished since the national socialist regime."

Written by James Mackenzie, Chief Political Correspondent, Torrington Times

by **Castille de Italia** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 4:19 pm

by **The Macabees** » Thu Oct 22, 2020 8:58 pm

KRÍERMADA ANNOUNCES NEW NAVAL BASE IN POTTHAN
ALONGSIDE MAJOR NEW ARMS DEAL

The government has announced commence of construction of the largest naval military base in western Greater Díenstad,
as well as the westernmost naval base belonging to the empire. Its location in northwestern Potthan gives the Kríermada
a direct presence at the mouth of the River Dikk in the Bay of Chains.

Today, a small flotilla based in the United Vallerian Republic makes up the bulk of the Kríermada's presence in western Greater Díenstad outside of habitual, and secretive, submarine patrols. This is all set to change, however, with the announced construction of a large imperial naval base in northwestern Potthan. Expected to house a major war fleet, named Kríergrup 'Kadaín' after the Díenstadi word for the Bay of Chains, it implies the permanent deployment of over one thousand ships to the westernmost reaches of the region. This is a significant upgrade over the flotilla based out of United Vallerian Republic, composed of fewer than thirty ships.

Kríergrup 'Kadaín' today exists only in concept and is unlikely to be formed until after the end of the current Krasovan War, requiring as it does a major contribution of ships. It will probably be assigned to portions of the imperial fleet returning from Gholgoth and will represent the largest imperial military commitment west of the Satrapy of Nicaro.

According to official military sources, Kríerstatón Potthan will share assets with Kríerstatón Valleria, implying the folding of the latter's flotilla in the former's larger fleet group.

Constructed from scratch on previously unoccupied land, Kríerstatón Potthan — as it will be called — will be designed for both surface fleet elements and the deployment of submarines. Although the government and military have not confirmed the suspicion, there is a strong feeling among foreign policy analysts that the development implies the decision to deploy diesel-electric submarines at the mouth of the great river. The Golden Throne retains a lease to the land occupied by the base and a perimeter around it for 99 years, after which the government in Fedala will have to renegotiate the terms of the contract or vacate.

Why the large permanent deployment of warships to the far west? With the Ralkovian slave state defeated by the RMU-Eitoan coalition, the military threat to the Golden Throne and her allies seems to have diminished. However, despite the relative calm that has come to the area, it is also one that is difficult for the Kríermada to bulk with frequency because of the sheer distances involved. Imperial submarines are known to patrol from Eitoan to the United Vallerian Republic, but moving a fleet quickly into action in the area to block a slave trade convoy — including convoys from outside the region — is much more difficult. With the base, significant naval deployments in the far west to counter unexpected threats is much more feasible.

Imperial naval bases tend to be stationed with naval infantry, known in the Fuermak as Tercios. How many will be deployed to Kríerstatón Potthan remains unknown. The Imperial Bureaucracy rarely makes those figures available to the public, regardless. But, the contingent it can be assumed will be sizeable and capable of intervening in nearby conflicts.

Attached with the lease deal is a major arms export agreement, which sees the Golden Throne supplying billions of ríokmarks in military equipment. This includes second-hand Nakíl 1A1s upgraded to the standards of the Nakíl 1A3, replacing the models currenly employed by the Potthani military. These are reputatively from the 1960s, thus the Nakíls represent a major upgrade over the country's previous stock of main battle tanks. The Nakíls will be sold for a fraction of their manufacturing cost and will be upgraded for free, as part as the base leasing contract. Together with the tanks, the arms deal includes rifles, machineguns, and other small arms. Disposal rocket tubes, munitions, artillery, and other heavy armaments will be sold to Potthan as well. The two governments have begun a systemic rearming of large portions of the Potthani military, bringing it to the 21st century.

Although the Golden Throne's arms export industry has lost its luster since the breakup of Kriegzimmer, once one of the premier export conglomerates of the world, the sale of military equipment nevertheless continues to represent a large source and revenue and prestige. The Potthani deal represents a continuation of this tradition and its evolution since the War of Golden Succession, with the growing export of second-hand equipment manufactured for the conflict but now surplus to requirements. This stock of second-hand equipment is only likely to grow with the conclusion of the conflict in Gholgoth and the demobilization of over half of the Ejermacht over the next five-years.

The new weapons will be delivered in tranches over the next five years and officials in the Golden Throne are likely to continue offering further arms sales in the future, including of fighter aircraft, as well as surveillance and attack unmanned aerial vehicles. The weapons sales program to Potthan has been justified as an effort in the empire's ongoing war on terrorism and slavery.

It is known that the Imperial Bureaucracy has proposed joint combat operations in Barjaanistan in an effort to suppress the slave trade within the country, but nothing to this end is part of the agreement — at least, to the extent that the public is aware. As such, the new naval base is not intended to support or prepare for such an operation, although it does make such an operation more convenient. With ongoing heavy fighting in both Krasnova and the Killian Republic in the war against the Nazi Reich, it's possible that the empire has seen it wise to avoid further commitments while it still attempts to bring the current conflict under control.

As such, and with Kríerstatón Potthan only now beginning construction, there will be no major expected imperial fleet presence in the far west until after the war with Reich. While the Golden Throne tends to build its infrastructure quickly enough to make quick-paced movements, the first elements of Kríergrup 'Kadaín' are unlikely to arrive before the end of the year.

by **Palmyrion** » Sun Oct 25, 2020 4:26 am

First Transgender and Non-Union Ethnic Politician Elected Into Major Headship Position
Victor Kalimantan | 25 October 2020 6:48PM PST

Takahashi garnered 298 votes in the House Speaker election
Born to Mokan immigrants: father of Nipponese descent and mother of Hispanic descent
Commonwealth Assembly Senate President also elected

Sakura Angel Takahashi garnered two firsts as the first non-Union ethnic and first transgender holder of a major headship position in the Palmyrian government, having been elected to the position of House Speaker just earlier today.

ARAGON, PALMYRION | The House of Representatives elected today a woman that achieved two firsts in Palmyrian legislative history as its first non-Union ethnic and first transgender holder of a major governmental headship position: Sakura Angel Takahashi.

Born as Johnathan Daisuke Takahashi on 1980, Sakura was born to Mokan immigrants: her father, Akira Takahashi, hailed from the Nipponese island chain, while her Mother, Corazon Irizar, came from mainland Mokastana. She transitioned starting from the age of 20 with assistance from the Marshite medical services, and finished her B.Sc. course in Development Communication in UP Los Baños. Her political career started off as an MC in the Santa Cruz City Council, climbing her way up to the top as a member of the Social Democratic Party. She married long time boyfriend Jasper France Jumayao on 2018, and have since then adopted three children: Cassandra Aiko, Daisuke John, and Eimi Paulette.

The news arrived as the upper house, the Chamber of Senators, elected its own Senate President, Harold Dimaculangan, of indigent Ifugao descent.

by **Potthan** » Tue Oct 27, 2020 11:53 am

The Imperial Inquirer
Informing Potthan since 1884

Barjaanistani Aggression Sparks Deployment of 151st

151st STB in 2019

According to the Imperial Board of Intelligence, Barjaani troops have been deployed to the disputed border region after receiving foreign aid. Although staying in Barjaani territory, experts believe that another Barjaani military push is not out of the question. General Yaman Arkani of the 151st Special Tactics Battalion stated in a press conference "The likelihood of another Barjaani aggression is small, but large enough to take precautions." For the past 50 years, the disputed province of Golgamesh has been claimed by both Potthan and Barjaanistan.

The 151st has been deployed to defend the border region with the assistance of the 12th Legion. "Unfortunately we do not know much and we don't even know if the Barjaanis are going to do anything, but it beats being back in Agadesh doing nothing" said Legate Farsha in an interview with the inquirer.

Economists predict the deployment of troops in the region would hurt the ongoing gold mining operations. Dr. Jamat Oroksun of the Imperial Mining Guild stated "With the deployment troops and threat of aggression, mining operations could be slowed or completely halted. We need the gold to meet the demands of the people and slowing down for an extended period of time could prove dangerous".

Emperor Jericho emerged from his oceanside palace to state, "Any person, organization, or nation who aids our enemy, the Barjaani, will be punished for their aggression against the throne; My throne." As of this morning trade sanctions against Barjaanistan have tightened, banning all Barjaani commercial and military aircraft within Potthani airspace as well as the ban of Barjaani commercial and military ships in Potthani waters. The Imperial Police has issued a 7 day period for all commercial craft to withdraw from the country. Failure to do so will result in an impoundment of the craft and up to 5 years in Imperial Prison.

This article has been fact checked and approved by the Imperial Board of Information
This article has been translated for international readers by the Imperial Board of Information in conjunction with the Imperial Board of Tourism

by **AHSCA** » Wed Oct 28, 2020 6:12 pm

Duchess Address Congress, Adjourns The Congress For the Season

Hibiki-Sono, Junior Reporter

As previously reported by my fellow colleague, Miss Kotobuki, Congress has been eagerly attempting to wrap up as the rainy season sets in. With the full deluge upon us, it seems the previous meeting of a potential Constitutional Amendment will have to wait until next season as Duchess Marcella Villa has officially adjourned the Congress until the next session set to begin in February. Unusual but not unprecedented. Duchess Shino Villa called sessions early during an active legislative proposal or debate as well. In this instance, Duchess Marcella took some time to address the Congress on a couple of important matters regarding the UIS and the relation with its friends in the world.

First, Duchess Villa addressed the recent new that the still young Prince and two Princesses of Kuronami were under target for the abduction and murder by a far radical fringe group. This terrible event was thankfully foiled before it could begin by that nation's law enforcement agencies tasked with criminal and civil investigations as well as the broad protection of the nation's highest of high families in charge of the people. Duchess Villa directed our nation's Ambassador to Kuronami to give a public statement on the nation's internet social media platform known as PiffleNet, a chat group that allows users to talk from all over the world. Ambassador Yuuki Naka and his family all issued their thoughts and condolences to the Imperial Family and the nation of Kuronami at large and their satisfaction of the serious matter being taken care of before the worst came to pass. A Resolution was also passed in the Congress without vote to express the same mutual express and concern and praise for those involved.

The second major topic of discussion from Her Highness, was the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic abroad. Recently, Silver Bay Herald - English Edition based in the Freelands of the Selkie reported another major outbreak of the deadly virus in urban centers. The nation's Mayors of the cities of Silverport, Ironcastle, Cuan and Leuda, the cities hit worst by the Second Outbreak, initiated a complete lock down of all four cities and the surrounding areas. Schools are still open, grocery stores, drug stores and pharmacies are still open, but all other stores, localities and shops are to be closed by Wednesday, midnight, local time. Inside all of these stores, a general duty to wear face masks is introduced. This outbreak comes after another major festival in the Freelands, also a major tourism draw for many islanders in the UIS. the UIS has not yet had any outbreaks of COVID-19 and the Duchess is looking to keep it that way as long as possible until such time effective vaccines and treatments are developed and can be distirubted wide. Until then, caution is urged.

Attached in this edition of the UIS Press, will the the text of her speech. See,

Members of Congress, Madam Speaker, and Minority Leader. It's my great pleasure again to be Addressing what I have now decided will be the final session of Congress until our next convening date. The weather has turned, the waves are upon us and high, the rains are falling, the winds have made it clear, the deluge of 2020 is upon us and is ready and here to stay. Our Holy Mother of the Night is truly at her full strength this year as we so thought she might be when the Holy Mother of Sun blessed us with a quiet storm season ahead. As such the turbulent conditions leave me feeling many of you would like to head home to be with your loved ones and weather these months to come. So please when you leave, leave in safe travel, mind the seas as we always do. As such my speech today will be the only matter before the Congress as I will assume my role as Duchess to preside over the Congress and thus be able to call the meetings when appropriate. Before we adjourn for the season, there's two very important matters I feel must be addressed.

Many have heard through the UIS Press that a group of radical Republican fringe terrorists threatened to kidnap the members of Kuronami's Royal Family, their young Princess Rona, 10 years old, Prince Eugene also 10 years old and Princes Carpathia 14 years old, younger siblings to the Empress of Kuronami, Her Imperial Highness, Empress Ortfiné von Eylstadt. Currently the exact details are still being kept quiet pending the trials of those who conspired but we can only assume and fear the worst if it came to pass, which thankfully by the Grace of all Heavens above, did not. Of course my younger sister and I have both had the pleasure of meeting all members of the Imperial Family and know them to be a delight, kind, gracious and simply lovely to be in company with. Allow me to Echo the Empress's words a moment, as public figures we all draw our share of criticism or praise and naturally there are those who may wish any of us harm. But there are ways to do so and wrong ways to do so. We of AHSCA and Kuronami both hold the idea of giving all our citizens autonomy and freedom under the stability of our singular governments and I think many of us agree, even those who might seek a republican system of government or direct democracies, should also have the right to speak their minds. But terrorism as a path to change is unacceptable. Even in AHSCA whether communist, socialist, republican, direct democracy, these advocates exist and they shall continue to exist but violence will of course never be tolerated, nor the threat of it.I think that goes without saying.

I wish to personally tell Her Highness and her family we of the UIS all stand behind them, we all pray for them, we all hold them as dear friends. We all have young loved ones in our lives we could not fathom the idea of someone wishing them harm. But there are always those terrible people. So with that said, let us rejoice that no harm came to the young Princesses and Prince and that the through work of the RBI Group and IGS Group have successfully acted. RBI has been a cooperative group here in the UIS, helping us combat crime and trafficking and smuggling. Teaching our own law enforcement to work. We thank them and praise them for their continuing service.

Now Members of Congress there's another issue to address today, regarding another dear friend for the UIS and that is the Freelands. It was recently reported that a new outbreak of the still ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused another wave of illness, sequesters and potential death ahead. This virus has wreaked havoc on many nations and economies. We ourselves no strangers to illness and pandemics. Currently the UIS has been spared it, by the Grace of the Goddesses but to keep it that way we have to remain ever vigilant. Given The Freelands recently had a harvest festival, an event that drew tourists from all over including us in the UIS, and vice versa with our own Festival here just a month ago, many are certainly wondering about those returning home after their long stays abroad to enjoy the cultural fruits of another nation. Currently remain 15 ships in overseas territories with three of those located in The Freelands and returning. These ships will be escorted by the UIS Navy and kept in a state of quarantine for four weeks. Any sick aboard if any, will be treated. Upon full treatments and ready evacuations of all passengers, these ships are to be scuttled. We understand after long rough journies how unappealing this must be, but a densely populated nation as our own, with our infrastructure cannot take chances. I will also impose a 30-day travel ban to non-essential ships traveling between the Freelands and other COVID-19 afflicted nations. After 30-days we shall begin a soft rollback on restrictions, and if need be, we will convene an emergency session of Congress and the entire Cabinet of Officers to discuss this matter. I will remain in touch with Your Majority Speaker and Minority Leader until then. It is with most regret I have to issue this, with many friends, family and those seeking to see the world abroad but I wish to do what is best for our citizens. Trade will only be disrupted so long as the two-three-week period as advised by public health issues.

Now the matters of those abroad, The UIS no longer is islands unto ourselves. If asked we will be ready to answer the call to help those in need. I have our Ambassador to the Freelands, Ms. Amy Seasta in communication with those in the Freelands to see if we can be of any assistance to them. The basic of basics to the more extreme deployment of 1121st Platoon our dedicated members of disater response and humanitarian efforts will be on standby ready to be of aid where they are called. We too have been given help by our new friends of Astares Amauricanum whom will have a hospital ship ready to assist in our needs. AHSCA will be ready if the worse shall happen but for now let's pray it doesn't. Until then, Members of Congress, I Herby declare the 25th Congress, Adjourned.

by **Kuronami** » Thu Oct 29, 2020 7:03 pm

Kidnapping Plot Against Prince and Princesses Foiled

Royal Bureau of Investigation Building in Caloris

CALORIS - KURONAMI:
Royal Bureau of Investigation (RBI) and The Imperial Guard Service (IGS) announced a six-month sting operation has come to an end with two dozen arrests being made against a terrorist organization that began a plot to abduct the three youngest members of the Von Elystadt family, the two young Princesses and Young Prince were being targeted by the group to be abducted and held to hostage though further details are being kept close to the chest by the Justice Agency pending the trial of the group.

In January, The RBI launched a probe into the terror organization known as Republica Kuronami, an extremist splinter of the pro-republican movement under suspicion they were stockpiling illegally obtained weapons and large amounts of laundered money. A mole was inserted in the group to gather intel and evidence before arrests would be made to snuff out the group as well as prevent potential splinter cells. Lance Waltz, Section Director of the RBI's Organized Crime and Terrorism units said "it's very important to not only bring groups like these into custody but to also cut them off at the pass. We could have easily arrested them in February but we wanted to make sure we cut off the entire supply not just one cell."

As the RBI's investigation continued into March, some new alarming plots emerged as the organization began a violent plot to abduct the youngest members of Kuronami's Royal Family. With that in mind, RBI contacted the IGS to inform them of a potential plot against members of the Royal Family whom joined with RBI to assist further in their investigation and implant a mole of their own to gather further intel. Exact details of the plot remain confidential pending prosecution of the case before the Royal Court in Caloris but according to RBI and IGS statements the threat was indeed very credible. According to IGS Director, Skyla Ward, "It's pretty common to see hollow threats against any member of the Royal Family or any of the other nation's high ranking nobility. With this, the details and planning were serious enough to warrant a joint effort to investigate and arrest." Director Ward also says while the threats were certainly serious, the children were actually in minimal danger. "The plan wasn't to be executed until roughly the middle of summer, we expect some time around Christmas when things are certainly busy and crazy. Even then there are still several layers of security that would need to be penetrated before serious harm could come of them. Really at most danger still remains Her Imperial Majesty but we always take these kinds of threats very seriously."

Her Royal Highness, Princess Carpathia Alexandra Von Elystadt

Her Royal Highness, Princess Rona Margarethe Von Elystadt

His Royal Highness, Prince Eugen Christoph Von Elystadt

RBI and IGS also stated while the children are active online, particularly on PiffleNet there are no security threats with their social media accounts. "Those at Piffle have cooperated with us, helping our efforts to ensure they have safe and secure online activity. They also show that they listen to us and take their personal safety just as seriously. Good for their age." Once arrests were ready to be made, a team of RBI and IGS agents swarmed an out of the way compound in the middle of rural Clarines and made arrests. As a precaution, the Prince and Princesses were flown to the secure mountain retreat, Camp Shaher in the Pegasus Mountains returned to their Landsbruck residence on Monday. Though the family declined a public interview, they gave a brief message that all are in high spirits, feeling fine and happy to have this ordeal behind them now. All suspects were arraigned and are remanded into custody pending their trial, no word yet if any plea bargaining will come.
Around the world, nations and leaders reacted to the news by expressing various messages of condolences to the family and praise for the efforts of law enforcement to bring these terrorist to justice. Her Imperial Highness has expressed thanks to those who gave their regards to her family. Among the nation's own Royal Family, Princess Magdalene von Eylstadt expressed her disgust people would threaten her youngest siblings and went to the RBI HQ in Caloris to thank the agents in person. All members of the Domain's ruling famlies also sent their words of encouragement and condolences to the Imperial Family, IGS and RBI for their efforts.

by **The Macabees** » Thu Oct 29, 2020 11:07 pm

LOURENS CONSORTIUM UNVEILS NEW POTTHAN CONTRACT DETAILS

Lourens Consortium, a Tarn-headquartered association representing four private military companies in the NSPMT Guild, announce their second contract,
this time in Potthan. They will be assisting the Potthani Gold Mining Guild with mine, worksite, and office security operations in Potthani and occupied territories.

Specialist J won't tell us his real name, he won't even tell us who he works for. What we do know is that he is not Potthani, and wearing his clean, crisp uniform and armor neither is he a civilian. Specialist J belongs to the Lourens Consortium, a corporate alliance of four individual Tarn private military companies (PMC), and has been deployed to Potthan in the putative mission of protecting Potthani Gold Mining Guild assets and personnel in Potthan and in occupied territories. This is Lourens' second such contract in a short time, following a more limited role in the NSPMC Guild contract for the upcoming Coff's International 7's Rugby Tournament. It signals an intention to do much more, following in the footsteps of the aggressive Valo' Kap Consortium — of course, hoping to avoid war with a regional great power, seeing how that is going for Valo'Kap in the Killian Republic.

We know of Lourens Consortium's contract in Potthan only because the association recently released limited details, citing full transparency impossible due to operational security concerns. According to the company's spokesperson, Margareta Kinsel, the contract details include information on deployment numbers, organization, and equipment, data that the company seeks to keep classified for as long as possible.

Of course, as the Killian Republic's southern states are ravaged in a massive war between two colossal armies, politicians and society, in general, have begun to question this newfound proliferation of mercenary use in the region. Jumanota, supposedly part of Holy Panooly, is directly governed by a gargantuan construction and infrastructure firm, Navitek. Its rule is enforced through the use of contractors. Krasnova has also been a hotbed of mercenary activity. The Kysetians fighting there now had just recently been in New Empire, assisting in the pacification of revolting cities like Dasch. In the Killian Republic, we see just far the ambition of mercenary companies can go. The Killian military was steadily privatized and now there are questions about who exactly put President Jackson Hamilton in power. Valo'Kap has shown us how dangerous and destabilizing PMCs can be.

That Specialist J won't tell us his name or who he works for is significant. He doesn't work directly for Lourens Consortium, instead, he is a temporary contractor. He is hired from one of the four individual companies in the corporate association, which are under obligation to release no information on the employment of active or former agents except under the request of an imperial court. The rules of the corporate association imply that the companies are protected from all harm and liability coming from the misuse of their assets, giving mercenary companies much more freedom when choosing contracts by absolving them of all the risk.

Consortiums also allow for the taking of larger contracts with more extensive dimensions, such as cyber- and electronic warfare. Lourens will be performing these duties to the extent it relates to its mission of protecting guild assets, but Potthan is facing a full-scale insurgency on the Barjaani side of the border and its attacks by these organizations that Lourens will be helping to defend against.

No details concerning intelligence sharing or prisoner of war policy have been provided. It is unknown whether the Potthani government and military will actively provide Lourens forces with any data or information, and more importantly the other way around. Depending on Lourens' role and the type of transparency it can expect from Potthan, the extent of its intelligence and reconnaissance operations may be quite far-reaching. Neither is it known whether captured insurgents must be turned over to Potthani officials or whether the PMCs are allowed to hold and interrogate their own prisoners, and if so for how long. Finally, the company did not speak to whether the Potthani government would allow for the interrogation of prisoners captured by their forces, which would perhaps allow them to escape the constraints imposed by the Potthani government's public accountability.

We do know a little about the composition of forces, both through general details released to the public and via photographs taken in Potthan. Civilians and, assumably, enemy forces regularly upload photos of Potthani and foreign forces and equipment in Potthan and Barjaanistan. Some have begun to pop up suggestive of Lourens Consortium forces, including wheeled armored fighting vehicles of various types and sizes. There is evidence of heavy firepower, perhaps even aircraft given the involvement of Huron Authority in the consortium. These are all ostensibly for the protection of fortified mining sites from largescale attacks.

The gold mines in Potthan and Barjaanistan are, of course, an important source of wealth. The Potthani Gold Mining Guild has never employed PMCs before, but it has always brought heavy security along with it. But a lull in the Barjaani insurgency allowed the guild to disband most of its security forces. With the sudden resurgence of violence, it has found a rapid reaction force in Lourens Consortium.

Also involved in the contract is the Potthani PMC Horseback Henchmen, which announced the opening of an international headquarters — second to its primary home headquarters — in Tarn. Potthani PMCs will take on a central role as translators, guides, and scouts, the latter a particularly harrowing profession that often leads into dangerous ambushes and ferocious firefights. Horseback Henchmen joins as a partner ally of Lourens Consortium.

Tarn's commercial expansion into Potthan opens a new chapter in contemporary mercenary history, a history of steady escalation in scale as the likutat progresses on its quest to solidify itself as the central PMC hub of Greater Díenstad. To accommodate growing private armies and the arrival of new companies, the city has expanded into previously Panooly-owned territory that is now under Navitek administration. Navitek has accordingly surrendered titles to land occupied by Tarn, where the mercenaries employed by Navitek are not coincidentally employed. Its role in fostering the destabilizing of the Golden Throne's greatest ally and precipitating a major land conflict against the Ordenite Fourth Reich has brought into question just how much leeway the likutat should get from imperial law. Not one of the companies involved in the unfolding Valo'Kap disaster will pay the price, except for the very small and unimportant leadership of the consortium itself. The real players are all safe. The same will be true for the companies involved with Lourens Consortium, giving them and, much more importantly, their customers a very liberal degree of freedom in use.

Just how low will the consortium go in the name of profit?

— This piece was penned by an anonymous author. We do not release the names of our writers for their own health, safety, and protection. Tarn Times stands against the suppression of free speech in Tarn, a mounting problem along with the rising tide of the ruling mercenary class. We call on the Imperial Bureaucracy to rescind the city's status as a free city.

by **Cartoonia** » Fri Oct 30, 2020 10:18 am

Artist rendition of Marie BonAztire, supreme leader of Crossoveria

The Imagination Animals and Crossoveria appear to have been stabilized yet AGAIN. That does not mean that they are fully stable by any means. Cartoonians would know those two nations have been going in and out of stability as much as trains enter tunnels. The Cartoon government is skeptical of this new stability in the Crossoverian government. Like many Cartoonians, they are grateful that their supreme leader Marie BonAztire is slowly rising back in power, but many think it is another hoax like last time. “We have been duped by this nation on several occasions” says Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo, “Everytime we signed agreements and treaties, that organization tore it up and went to war. When we thought their terrorist leader was dead. Fake news! Turns out she was alive and well. We still fear the inevitability of a war in the future. They are just bumping the problem down from one administration to the next”. Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Raphtalia Iwatani would agree with this statement. “It is a serious problem”, she says. “How are we certain that this is real and not for show? Would they be able to regroup and terrorize the world again? We thought it was over last time, but it began again weeks ago. Also, there has been a policy of this so-called “Animalfication” which I personally find offensive”. Secretary of Defense Ludwig Belischmidt might have the solution to the problem. “The problem is that not only was the coup government a totalitarian state, their previous leader was also a totalitarian” he states. “Years of absolute power and no citizen in the country has a say in how the government runs their lives. There does not seem to be any signs of religious freedom and tolerance, she has banned thousands of things without the consent of the people, no fair trial. This isn’t medieval Europe. This is the modern world. What this country needs is a system of representative government, and if there is no such plan on the part of their leader… then we will”. That is exactly what Cartoonia wants. The leaders will sign a ceasefire, however in order to prevent these shenanigans from happening again, a treaty must be signed where Cartoonia will enter a month long military occupation to stabilize and democratize the nation of The Imagination Animals. We hope that peace comes as soon as possible.
-Lucy Heartfilia, Head-Journalist for The Gallagher Herald

by **AHSCA** » Sat Oct 31, 2020 3:45 pm

Office of Education?

by Shizuka Gozen, Officer for Information and Culture

The desire of a public education system within AHSCA has long been a point of debate. While most agree there is a need of an literate and enlightened population, the methods have long been debated between those wanting a centralized institutional system of simply a light clerical or individual lead system that was until The Congress managed to pass an education incentive that finally established an educational core that compelled all children to attend some sort of school until the age 14 (except Corona which caps at 13 and Hoshino which caps at 14) and deemed the traditional age of adult hood at 15 if so declared by the parents and the minor, otherwise to default at 18. But the road to making a system of Education that fits AHSCA's unique place in the world has long been a challenge even when the two parties managed to push through the legislation. An early proposal crafted by former Senator, Mikela Olaff (UIP - Stillestando) that was drafted with consultation from experts from Lamoni was rejected and since then Senators Pacifica (UIP-C) and Miela (NLP-C) have each had their own competing bills from their own parties.

It's grown to the point that Her Highness, Duchess Villa has considered stepping in to make a Royal Mandate to set up a nationalized system that will be expected for all states to follow in spite of little differences they have in their state systems. The implementation of such a program would no doubt require more government oversight to craft a needed curriculum and system to teach children and teachers. With that Her Highness has contemplated on launching a new Office, Office of Education for this brave new venture ahead of us as a people.

As it stands, literacy in AHSCA is at 65%, a huge leap above where it was even a decade ago and especially at the end of the war. The economy however remains a skilled trade based one, even with the huge boom of tourism in recent years. There's even talk that I, this article's author could be given the position on top of being this nation's Culture and Information or in place of it. To be honest, I do not know, I've not had any meetings with her Majesty on this subject but we shall continue to watch this situation ahead of us.

Stormy Season Ahead as Rains Lash Islands

stock painting of a violent storm at sea

by Maro - Weather and Climate Reporter

According to the Office of Meteorology, this years monsoons are looking to break the record from 2000 with a 120% increase of precipitation. Since the wind shift in the second week of September, thunderstorms continue to line up one after another or sometimes stall over the islands as they run against a blocking high off the eastern shores. Great for keeping hurricanes away out of the season but the dramatic dip in the jet stream does mean AHSCA could be in for a long wet and stormy season ahead of us. The concerns of COVID-19 reaching island shores continue to remain as merchant ships are forced to brave the turbulent conditions but following Her Majesty's Decrees it would seem there's little to worry about. For those of us at home, it means hunkering down and weathering the worst of what the weather has. How will this also come to affect this years upcoming Congressional elections? It's noted that the last time a rainy season proved to be this rough and intense, it proved to be a major boon for the National Liberal Party of AHSCA. The party which has its roots in the deeply naturalist and spiritual Corona Island, often has used the weather to its advantage. Given the NLP would be considered AHSCA's more "conservative faction" it might mean a shift for the party leads to come. According to experts, islanders in the face of unsettled and rougher weather often fall back more on the conservative side of things. However things are different from then and now so we'll wait to see.

As for the farmers and sailors out there, UNIMO is saying a rise in the jet stream and a dissolving high is what it will take for the weather to calm down but for now that's not looking like the case. Speaking with UNIMO Officer Youkika Elma, she is predicting a long haul season. "Right now conditions are stagnate. What brings our weather is the jet stream which is in a depressed U-curve. That means certain islands like Corona will also be seeing above average precipitation and strong winds. Seas are really turbulent so I advise small craft remain docked and only larger ships take to the seas."

A Heavy Monsoon Alert was issued at the end of September as the first rains began to pelt the country. Officer Elma says expect this at least until the end of December where we might see a pattern change.

Status Quo for Parties Ahead of Elections

by: Shino Asagiri, Junior Reporter

The UIS will have it's wide Congressional Election come March and people wonder what to expect but for now it seems there's little change at the top as the two parties of AHSCA Politics continue to put up their main women for the race, Pacifica, the current Majority Leader and Speaker and Miela, the current Minority Leader. That said many are looking to represent their home state on the national stage including for the first time, newly unaffiliated runners. Big issues on this years are the creation of a "Storm Bank" A specialty locked fund to be used in the event of major hurricanes or particularly bad monsoonal seasons. This would be created by Congress and and contributed to by every citizen of the UIS as apart of their normal income taxes. The increased waves of tourism with the growing popularity of the Holy Festival has also been a big topic but it seems most candidates are fine with the increase. There are even talks among a few to potentially abolish UNICIM which publishes the state news And UNIMO. Though elections were intended to happen in 2019, the April Hurricane unfortunate forced a delay in Congressional elections needing to put it off until this year with the final group to take in 2021.

by **Icecliff** » Wed Nov 04, 2020 1:32 am

High King Makes All Education Free
By: Chase Jenkins

Icecliff Castle, Icecliff - In a stunning reversal of Icecliff's typical economic policy, that of capitalism, on Sunday High King Clayton Rowan enacted a new law proclaiming that no entity would ever charge for the privilege of getting an education in Icecliff at any level. In response to questions about his economic position, he maintained that he was still a capitalist and that free education would "benefit our society as a whole, not just by increasing our education level, but by making Icecliff appeal more to residents of other nations." To pay for this new education policy, some money was diverted from welfare programs, but Rowan said that "the money diverted will repay itself many, many times over." It is his belief that, if advanced education is offered to everyone, along with meals for those who can't afford them, there will be a greater incentive for poorer people to get a better education, lift themselves out of poverty, and make contributions to Icecliff on a much greater scale than they would otherwise.

It will be a while until we understand the full effects of this new law. School enrollment does not begin until August, four months from now, and it will be even longer before we can see the long-term effects this brings into play. This issue has proven to be quite controversial among economists. Dr. Larissa Harding, Professor of Economic Studies at Blackpool University, said "while undoubtedly this law has very good potential, we must also consider the costs. To fund this, we took money from the welfare budget, meaning that, in the short term, this will definitely hurt the impoverished, especially those in the most need, specifically the unemployed. This law would have been much better had its funding been drawn from our over-sized military and not our welfare budget."

by **The Technocratic Syndicalists** » Wed Nov 04, 2020 6:13 pm

Arcaenia ∙ World ∙ Politics ∙ Science ∙ Lifestyle ∙ Sports ∙ Entertainment ∙ Tech ∙ Health ∙ Opinion

Arcaenia Joins PROYEKT LIBERTY

SDI Space Systems will manufacture and launch satellites for Macabéan global internet project

Pictured: a PROYEKT LIBERTY satellite in orbit

HYPERIA - Arcaenia will join the Golden Throne's "PROYEKT LIBERTY" program top provide free broadband, wireless high-speed internet connectivity to all peoples of Greater Díenstad, announced a spokesperson for the Arcaenian government announced in a press conference earlier today. SDI AG, Arcaenia's largest aerospace corporation, has been awarded a contract by the Arcaenian government to develop and manufacture some 7,500 satellites for PROYEKT LIBERTY.

The government has also announced that ALR, Arcaenia's national space agency, would be awarded launch contracts for the SDI AG manufactured ROYEKT LIBERTY satellites. The 7,500 or so satellites developed by SDI AG's Space Systems will feature additional V band (40-50 GHz) uplink and downlink capability to complement the Ku-band and Ka-band satellites developed and launched by the Golden Throne and will orbit at an altitude of 345 km. According to the Arcaenia government the complete PROYEKT LIBERTY satellite constellation of over 11,500 satellites will provide low-cost global broadband internet connection with a 'proprietary peer-to-peer protocol' and 'end-to-end encryption capability' with download speeds of over 50 Mbps and upload speeds of over 5 Mbps with a latency of 75 ms.

SDI AG has also commented that it is developing future hardware and software upgrades to its PROYEKT LIBERTY satellites which will allow download speeds of 150Mbps and a latency of 20ms to 40ms. SDI estimates that the half-constellation of satellites will take four years to be become fully operational with a planned completion date for the full constellation of seven years.

Greater Díenstad News Feed

UNICIM Briefs - Subjects Articles and stories from AHSCA

Who is online