AOCAF LIII Everything Thread

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Sun Apr 09, 2017 10:29 pm

DRAGONS MAILBAG:
TOP 3 TRENDING SOCIAL MEDIA ITEMS THIS WEEK!

Alright, sure, last night was a big night in a lot of ways for the Cosumar national team. Alexander Pearce made his competitive debut in charge of the program. And won. His team turned a low-key, scoreless first half into a nice feel-good 3-0 win in the second half. Bellerophon Serafino scored his first international goal with a sweeping shot from the left side of the box. Three other players made competitive debuts. And, hey, that's three points from three to start the AOCAF! But sometimes, no matter how much there is to discuss from the events on the pitch, what happens off of it is just inherently more interesting. This is one of those times. This edition of Dragons Mailbag is here to catch you up on some buzz-worthy stories that have been setting social media ablaze this week.

What could possibly overshadow a landmark match in Cosumarite history? DILFs, cleverly-named desserts and Fleftic bananas, as it turns out. Read on, curious kittens!

1. Dapper Pearce mistaken for player by stadium security
Alexander Pearce, left, was fashionably late to initial warm-ups in Myana's Island Dome before Matchday 1. The manager was barred at entrance for over 30 minutes because the ultra-cautious Chromatik security (understandable given the country's recent history) were skeptical that he was, in fact, the manager. According to Pearce, he was repeatedly asked by security if he was actually a Cosumarite and Ngolian player who had stolen Pearce's manager's pass as a prank. To be fair, the 47-year-old doesn't look a shade over 27 in that sharp grey suit he was wearing. Pictures from the incident spawned thousands of tweets fawning over his "DILF" status as well as a frighteningly-detailed social media conspiracy theory that Alexander Pearce is secretly an ageless android robot. That would explain the *mechanical* clip at which he won trophies at Cornellians...

2. Superfan sneaks surprise KitKat cake to Kvanderwyks
When Kathryn Kvanderwyk entered in the 63rd minute, it was more than just her first taste of AOCAF. It was also her first time sharing the field with elder brother Kit, who started, in a competitive international. Kit & Kathryn are now the first siblings to play together for Cosumar (the Lucassens both did, but never together). It was a special day for them, and one devoted fan made it even more special - and gave them a new nickname in the process. When they returned to the dressing room, they discovered a cake made out of KitKat candies (a play on their first names) waiting for them. Kit & Kat were snapchatting pictures of themselves and teammates enjoying it for hours. Anonymous fan, props for somehow getting the sugary behemoth past that airtight Chromatik security! Here's to more "Kit-Kat" under Pearce.

3. Valgard to embrace banana meme, join Bananas FC?
Late last night, some nebulous online 'sources' simultaneously broke the news that Romikk Valgard, the burgeoning Cosumarite star with interest from top clubs around the multiverse, had agreed to terms with obscure Fleftic outfit Bananas FC. While an obvious hoax based on his well-publicized superstitions regarding the potassium-packed fruit, the reports nevertheless went viral. Within hours, millions were reacting and discussing the shock move online. The "Valgard Banana" memes, which had finally subsided from their World Cup 77 fever, flooded back into news feeds everywhere. Some Cosumarites posted rants at the striker for misguidedly signing in Abanhfleft, while rival foreigners took delight in jeering at the spectacle of the whole thing. Valgard held a press conference to dispel the rumors, insisting there had been no contact with Bananas FC, but it did little to stop the alternative fact from spreading like wildfire. This meme will linger until an official transfer is announced.

Here's to hoping that Alexander Pearce has continued Farris Crowley and Gethin Ramsey's policy of limiting social media use during important competitions. With the digital hivemind buzzing and pumping out hilarious content around all three of these entertaining stories, it could be a distraction as the team prepares for the most important match in Island Group play coming up. The blue, white and silver will next face the Eel Cat Things of Vilita & Turori. Their combined team is infamous for success in this competition, and deservedly holds #1 in the regional rankings. If Cosumar can steal a point, it would go a long way towards advancing out of what could be considered Chromatika's Group of Death.

Man, writing about all this has made me hungry. I'm off to find a Kit Kat and some bananas. Until next time, this was Dragons Mailbag.

(OOC: Thanks to Nephara for the inspiration on #3)

by **Chromatika** » Sun Apr 09, 2017 11:00 pm

Matchday 2 Cutoff

Capital Group
Qasden 2–1 Starblaydia
The Redvale 0–1 Semarland
Chromatika 2–1 Audioslavia

Capital Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Chromatika                   2   2  0  0    5   1  +4    6
2 Semarland                    2   1  1  0    2   1  +1    4
3 Audioslavia                  2   1  0  1    3   2  +1    3
4 Qasden                       2   1  0  1    2   4  −2    3
5 Starblaydia                  2   0  1  1    2   3  −1    1
6 The Redvale                  2   0  0  2    0   3  −3    0

Eastern Group
95X 4–3 Farfadillis
Blouman Empire 0–4 Valanora
Taranga 1–1 Tallaga la Falla

Eastern Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 95X                          2   2  0  0    7   3  +4    6
2 Valanora                     2   1  1  0    6   2  +4    4
3 Tallaga la Falla             2   1  1  0    3   1  +2    4
4 Farfadillis                  2   0  1  1    5   6  −1    1
5 Taranga                      2   0  1  1    1   4  −3    1
6 Blouman Empire               2   0  0  2    0   6  −6    0

Western Group
Eshan 2–1 Krytenia
Tomikosan 2–0 Kyrgustan
Osarius 1–0 Oontaz Dert Li Ng

Western Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Osarius                      2   2  0  0    3   1  +2    6
2 Tomikosan                    2   1  0  1    4   3  +1    3
3 Krytenia                     2   1  0  1    3   2  +1    3
4 Eshan                        2   1  0  1    3   3   0    3
  Oontaz Dert Li Ng            2   1  0  1    3   3   0    3
6 Kyrgustan                    2   0  0  2    0   4  −4    0

Island Group
Tropicorp 4–1 Ngolia
Vilita & Turori 0–0 Cosumar
Western Sunrise Islands 1–0 Iskandervale

Island Group                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Vilita & Turori              2   1  1  0    4   0  +4    4
2 Tropicorp                    2   1  1  0    5   2  +3    4
3 Cosumar                      2   1  1  0    3   0  +3    4
4 Western Sunrise Islands      2   1  1  0    2   1  +1    4
5 Iskandervale                 2   0  0  2    0   5  −5    0
6 Ngolia                       2   0  0  2    1   7  −6    0

by **Valanora** » Sun Apr 09, 2017 11:10 pm

Valanora Times
Raynor City United To Play in Charity Match

As another domestic season looms on the horizon, with some clubs to start their preseason training in just two weeks time, the flurry of schedule friendlies and getting ready for Intercontinental Competitions such as the Champions' Cup and Globe Cup begins in earnest. News from Paripana has come to light that our own Raynor City United will be in a charity match alongside the legendary Yuba United of Paripana (formerly of Bedistan as well) as part of the UICA’s centenary event. Rumors suggest that there will be a series of four to six matches played at The Battleground over the course of two or three days, with all the proceeds from the event going to charity. While the exact details of the event are not yet revealed, the Rockers have confirmed that they will be participating in the event and have already chosen their charity to whom their share of the proceeds shall be going to. For a club that continuously ranks as one of the most rich clubs in all of the footballing world, this sort of gesture is sure to win them even more good pr, while not denting their bottom line, much.

For the international players however, it is a trip to Chromatika and the six weeks that the AOCAF shall be taking place in the nation, with the Marauders looking to build upon a good World Cup run with the hopes of adding another regional title to their list of championships won. The group that the Marauders have been given is not one that is very friendly, given that the side has to contend with the likes of the offensive juggernauts of Farfadillis, as well as the regional power of 95X as the contenders to taking the group crown and advancing into the next round of the tournament. One also has to keep an eye out on the Blouman Empire, as they do have a history of coming up with surprise results and even a deep run into the regional championship at times. All the same, it is the two Southwestern powers as well as 95X that will be vying for advancement and into the knockout stage, as the rest of the group just does not seem to measure up to the same amount of quality and skill the top tier of this group does possess.

One of those matches has already been played out, as the Marauders had to play the Farves in the first game of the group and the game played out to a draw, a result that does not suit either but does not harm either's chances of progressing forward. As was expected, the Farves hard pressed the Marauders backline, smashing the defense for two goals in the first half hour of the match from United's own striker, Tájö Çíânflöné. The side was shellshocked by the quick two goal deficit and had to claw their way back into the match starting with grabbing a goal through a Fresco header just two minutes before the first half came to an end. The second half saw the Marauders begin to play their possession game and pass their way past the Farfadillis high pressure press attack, which eventually saw va Drake find a weakness in their defense, round an unsuspecting defender, and level the match for the Marauders. Unfortunately for the squad, that was the last goal of the game, despite two more clear cut opportunities in the last ten minutes to snatch all three points.

With nearly a week between the game with Farfadillis and their second match with The Blouman Empire, expect to see a far more energized and disciplined Marauder side. The squad knows that they have had the one slip up that they could afford in the group matches and it just happened to be in the first match that they played. While they do not have to be perfect from here on out, they know they have to bring their best game in order to secure the results, as the Bloumany side is not one to take lightly. While history is on the Marauders side in all of these group games, history can only take you so far, with so much of the world now asking what have you done for me lately. With this in mind, this squad has to get their minds right and come out on the attack to get this AOCAF started going in the right direction.

OOC: well crap, i missed the cutoff while getting dinner :<

by **Tomikosan** » Mon Apr 10, 2017 6:34 am

\Sport-Mitei\ ~ Reported by true sports fans, EVERY WEEK!

Megurine Fires Two Goals in Kyrgustan Match

Megurine going past Samed Avcı

Komarov-Thomiya had fufilled promises to us after they blasted newcommers Kyrgustan two goals to none. It was all thanks to a stunning performance by Wolfgang Megurine, who was given the Man of the Match. Unsuprisingly, the Kyrgustani fowards couldn't handle the defensive prowess and were ripped apart just as soon they were close to the penalty box. Their own defenders seemed fine at first but once they go out of position, there was simply no hope to save themselves from conceding.

First Half:

The first half saw the Turkic Islanders (as they would like to call themselves) focusing on balance of both attack and defence. The Vocaloid Army were hoping to saw an opportunity and create some chances to win while keeping the defence in check. And it did. In 22nd minute, Megurine stole Samed Avcı's ball and got past through him and three other defenders. Goalkeeper Gürsel Koç came close to him and with a chip shot above him meant that a goal was conceded. There was not much action after the goal, as Kyrgustan tried hard to get around the defenders. There were some few occasional shots on target but Shinzo Nakamura wouldn't allow anything firing to his side.

The closest goal was in the 43rd minute. The Turkic Islanders' chance of scoring their first goal was Alikhan Nurislam's goal being disallowed by the linesman. An action replay showed that he was just over the line touching the ball from a through pass by Nurasyl Rustam. Nurislam disagreed, but didn't complained to the referee.

Second Half:

Continuing from the various attempts from Kyrgustan, the Komarois defence were easily held on for a long time. Even after a subsitution by coach Aytaç Tiryaki {55th minute}(In: Şemsettin Binici | Out: Nurasyl Rustam) and a change of formation, it didn't do justice at all as their side were full of wide-open shots, saves by Nakamura and interception by the defence. The Vocaloid Army even did a subsitution {60th minute}(In: Makoto Minase| Out: Booker Steward + In: Giancarlo Montivollo | Out: Shinzo Nakamura and they still hang on forever in this match.

In the 67th minute, a penalty was conceded. As Kerem Demir attempts to clear out from the danger zone, he accidentely took down Dwight Henessey to the ground. The referee booked him yellow and Megurine stepped up to take a penalty shot. And as expected he placed it on the top right corner. Gürsel Koç couldn't guessed it right and felt frustrated for his poor effort of saving a penalty shot.

The rest of the match was just like the first half after Megurine's first goal. You think he can go for a hattrick, right? In the 85th minute, the same linesman that disallowed Nurislam's goal had also rejected his first hattrick in the AOCAF. This time he was too far off from the line. Still, it wouldn't matter anyway because the Komariques won the game.

Their first three points was here and they were placed in second position. Osarius's winning form continues with a single goal to defeat previous opponents Oontaz and Eshan did the same with a 2-1 victory over Krytenia.

Komarov-Thomiya will go on to face Krytenia in the same venue as before. Tsung Nam-Kan believed a win over them won't be possible since they are way above them. However, with a combition of skill and luck, Krytenia will be beaten and grab their second win.

by **Semarland** » Mon Apr 10, 2017 3:35 pm

SEMARLAND NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM, OFFICIAL AOCAF 53 SQUAD

NATIONAL STADIUM - Natunolstadion, Jansberg, 86,000

Home - Goalkeeper - Away
Kits kindly manufactured by VUCTI Kits

STAFF:
Manager: Azarai Robinson (OSR), 56
The successor to Andreas Jansen, many believed the SFA pulled off quite a coup with the former Osarius full back and national team manager Azarai Robinson being named the new Semarland manager. The 56 year old won two of his three AOCAFs and the SFA are hoping he can translate that form and his experience into a solid World Cup campaign - with perhaps, this being the tournament where the Semars advance the group stage. Like predecessor Jansen in the previous World Cup, Robinson has named a strong squad and has some high profile names to his coaching team. The likes of Reiss Ryerson, Roque Urbina and Francesco Barzagalione all have Osarius national team experience and most of the coaches have been involved in coaching one way or another at an elite level. One thing is clear though - this is a new era, and Semarland fans are excited to see what the Osarian can bring.

Assistant manager: Reiss Ryerson (OSR), 73
73 years old with the voice of a megaphone, former Osarius centre-back Reiss Ryerson was named as Azarai Robinson's assistant which again, was quite a shock to Semar fans. Despite his age he is still more than able to play a big part in Robinson's backroom team. As well as that he is a very confident man, which could prove unnerving for opposition teams. Robinson did well to convince him to join him again, as Ryerson was a target of many domestic clubs to become their new manager. Whether Ryerson will ever get that chance is unknown, but what's for certain is that he will give his all in using his experience to assist Semarland as they look to do better than before this World Cup.

First team coaches: Yohan Martinsson, 49 and Jermaine Latibeaudiere, 36
49 year old Yohan Martinsson was appointed first team coach at the 63rd Cup of Harmony to replace the outgoing Sven Niemstad. Initially, he was working alongside Mako Albrechtsen, retained from the previous backroom staff but after his departure for a couple of months he was the sole general coach in Andreas Jansen's team. Experienced for his age, for the past twenty-two years Martinsson has been working as a coach with excellent all-round abilities. His assistant is 36 year old former Krsthaven midfielder Jermaine Latibeaudiere. A good friend of previous manager Andreas Jansen, Latibeaudiere, or "Lats" as he as affectionately known as by the players, was a central midfielder in his playing days. At 17 he unfortunately suffered a serious injury and had to retire four years later but spent eight years working as Krsthaven's first team coach. He has been a member of the Semar coaching team since World Cup 74, and has been retained by Azarai Robinson with Martinsson.

Speciality coaches: David Ustari (OSR), 60 (Goalkeeping), Martin Datheim, 51 (Goalkeeping, part-time), Miguel Rios (OSR), 58 (Defensive), Raquade Wilson-Martin, 37 (Defensive, part-time), Gilverto Cuellar (OSR), 55 (Technical), Francesco Villa (OSR), 68 (Technical), Roque Urbina (OSR), 57 (Attacking), Francesco Barzaglione (OSR), 65 (Attacking)
Robinson brought in four new speciality coaches plus kept on previous goalkeeping coach Martin Datheim on a part-time basis, alongide former U19 defensive coach Raquade Wilson-Martin. Former Hastmead Diamante goalkeeper Ustari is a close friend of Robinson, who represented Oarius twice at the 6th Summer Olympics and World Cup 58. Although he didn't have as much international experience as Martin Datheim, Ustari was a terrific shot stopper in his playing days and both goalkeepers will be of great benefit for the Semar goalkeepers. As he is employed on a part-time basis, Datheim will only coach the team during the World Cup qualifiers. Former Firewood City right back Rios was previously employed as a scout for the Osarian national team but will provide excellent coaching to the team's full backs. Raquade Wilson-Martin has had brief top flight experience but has had some terrific work with Semar youngsters, helping nurture the likes of Amani Chimbonda before.

Technically, they will be assisted by former Hastmead Diamante winger Gilberto Cuellar, a player renowned for his supreme first touch, as well as former Hastmead attacking midfielder Francesco Villa - the oldest member of the coaching team aged 68. Offensive wise, some fans were said to be disappointed that Robinson wasn't able to persuade Rene Wilson-Ouaddou to work with them but they are very lucky to have Roque Urbina. A talented winger in his playing career, he will provide a great tutor for the likes of upcoming wingers Dequane Saint Etienne and Tre Mukondo. In terms of strikers, former Firewood City striker Franceso Barzaglione will work primarly with the strikers. Barzaglione didn't have as much as national team experience as Urbina but was still a talented striker whose experience again will be useful for the set of Semarland strikers called up by Robinson. Former attacking coach Jerome Taylor is currently considering the offer of working on a part time basis during qualifying like Raquade Wilson-Martin, but has currently rejoined the FC Kolberg setup.

Tactical coaches: Yohannas Rasmussen, 43 and Jamal Martinsson, 38
43 year old Yohannas Rasmussen is a more familiar name to most, having covered for Johan Nikkelsen in World Cup 73 who took paternal leave. Statistically, Rasmussen did a better job having taken over during the second half of qualifying and ensuring Semarland got to the finals. He will be assisted by 38 year old Jamal Martinsson - who, the SFA admitted was not the original candidate for a second tactical coach after Kangemark Sport's Marcus Haider rejected the role. There is no doubt that Martinsson is a tactical genius though, having worked with Krsthaven's U21s before working with FC Kolberg's first team. The duo will be looking to adapt to the style of play Robinson & Ryerson are expected to use - which is most likely to be the famous "Osarian 4-3-3."

Fitness coaches: Rasmus Karlsen, 49 (Lead), Sylvester Mackay (OSR), 41 (Fitness), Onyekachi Echemandu (OSR), 40 (Strength & Conditioning)
Physiotherapists: Dr. Lars Mikkelsen-Schone, 50 (Head), Mats Borg, 52, Segun Akinola, 33, Dr. Ysabel Miranda (OSR), 50
Doctors: Dr. Stefan Tramsø, 57 (Head), Dr. Åke Ulfsson, 49, Dr. Algernon Irvine (OSR), 54, Dr. Kelechi Chukwueze (DSM), 35
Psychologists: Erika Larsen, 34, Devontae Mikael Newells, 25, Karin Ejiofor (OSR), 39
49 year old Rasmus Karlsen is a long serving member of the Semarland coaching staff, having worked way back with Henrik Jensen but his experience led to him being retained by Andreas Jansen and now by Azarai Robinson. Jacob Denmark and Karmelo Ashton-Brown have both moved on so Osarian duo Sylvester Mackay and Onyekachi Echemandu both replace them. However, the rest of the physiotherapists and doctors have remained under contract (again, with most of them being around since the Henrik Jensen era) but are boosted by the arrivals of Osarian duo Ysabel Miranda (physio) and Algernon Irvine (doctor), plus Dutch Semar Kelechi Chukwueze, with the Kemsterdam University graduate arriving after working with the Dutch Semar national team for the last four years. Three new psychologists have been brought in too, with those being Semar duo Erika Larsen and Devontae Mikael Newells, plus Osarian Karin Ejiofor.

Other staff:
Performance analysts: Tobias Mikkelsen, 38 (Lead), Rashaan Jackson (OSR), 32, Clement Monaghan (OSR), 35 and Blaise Jacobsen, 31
Head scout: Karl Sorensen, 50
International scouts: Mikkel Pedersen, 45, Soren Nathanielsen, 51, Clarck Mbala, 33, Matthias Strentsberg, 37
Domestic scouts: Yoann Livimbi, 38, Mark Eriksen, 37, Deon Kentwick-Browne, 27 and Johan Martinsen, 49
Spokesman: Mikael Stevestad, 54

PLAYERS:
GOALKEEPERS:
#1 - GK - Marco Valbuena - Age 33 - CSKA Quebec (QUE) - 66 caps
#12 - GK - Blaise N'Zonzi - Age 33 - Utica United (OSR) - 53 caps
#22 - GK - Marc Lindholm - Age 27 - Alianza FC (SJG) - 29 caps

DEFENDERS:
#2 - DR - Nathaniel Oseni - Age 28 - Krsthaven - 56 caps, 1 goals
#3 - DL - Matur Eiriksson - Age 33 - FC Jansberg - 145 caps, 6 goals
#4 - DC - Martell Chalobah - Age 27 - CA Paulinthal (PAS) - 66 caps, 3 goals
#5 - DC - Jakob Lunds - Age 35 - FC Kaldukosic (COS) - 151 caps, 5 goals
#13 - DC - Amani Chimbonda - Age 24 - Krsthaven - 46 caps, 1 goal
#19 - DR - Johan Huxley - Age 27 - FC Jansberg - 37 caps, 1 goal
#21 - DL - Djair Claro-Hunt - Age 23 - Hastmead Diamante (OSR) - 19 caps

MIDFIELDERS:
#6 - DMC - Marcel Labonne - Age 32 - AFC Treason (NPH) - 85 caps, 10 goals
#7 - ML - Dequane Saint Etienne - Age 25 - Firewood City (OSR) - 46 caps, 10 goals
#8 - MC - Tunji Tunde - Age 29 - Eastal Lunar (VIL) - 88 caps, 13 goals
#11 - MR - Tremaine Mukondo - Age 26 - Firewood City (OSR) - 38 caps, 5 goals
#14 - MC - Tunji Adebayo - Age 27 - Trothwands Evolution (OSR) - 40 caps, 4 goals
#15 - AMC - Marc Strand - Age 28 - Telecontarë (STB) - 56 caps, 27 goals
#17 - ML - Marcel Mbonne - Age 24 - Krsthaven - 24 caps
#20 - MR - Diego Snow - Age 32 - La Nueva Avenida (FFD) - 85 caps, 11 goals
#23 - AMC - Rene Claro-Hunt - Age 25 - Hastmead Diamante (OSR) - 34 caps, 13 goals

STRIKERS:
#9 - ST - Jakob Lindesfarne - Age 35 - Ulsa (EUR) - 71 caps, 48 goals
#10 - ST - Kwame Nelson - Age 24 - FC Jansberg - 37 caps, 41 goals
#16 - ST - Reiss Claro-Hunt - Age 25 - Hastmead Diamante (OSR) - 34 caps, 28 goals
#18 - ST - Yannick Simeone - Age 32 - La Nueva Avenida (FFD) - 83 caps, 31 goals

Player Personality Snapshot (Credit to Osarius for the template):
Score a goal: Kwame Nelson, Jakob Lindesfarne, Reiss Claro-Hunt, Marc Strand
Create that goal: Marc Strand, Tunji Tunde, Rene Claro-Hunt, Diego Snow
Win a free kick: Marc Strand, Dequane Saint Etienne, Tre Mukondo, Kwame Nelson
Take and score that free kick: Marcel Labonne, Tunji Tunde, Marc Strand, Tunji Adebayo
Win a penalty: Marc Strand, Kwame Nelson, Reiss Claro-Hunt, Tre Mukondo
Take and score that penalty: Marcel Labonne, Marc Strand, Kwame Nelson, Tunji Tunde
Come on as a late sub: Marcel Mbonne, Diego Snow, Demba Traore, Tunji Adebayo
Score a header off a set piece: Jakob Lindesfarne, Amani Chimbonda, Martell Chalobah, Jakob Lunds
Hack an opponent down: Matur Eiriksson
Lose their head and get sent off: Matur Eiriksson
Wind up an opponent: Dequane Saint Etienne, Matur Eiriksson
Argue with the referee: Matur Eiriksson, Dequane Saint Etienne
"Put in a shift" during a match: Marcel Labonne, Tunji Tunde, Jakob Lunds
Have an elaborate goal celebration: Dequane Saint Etienne
Get caught stumbling out of a nightclub: Semars are noted for their nightclubs and raves but fortunately the players are expected not to be around those.
Do charity work: Tunji Tunde, Jakob Lunds, Marc Strand, Marcel Labonne
Talk to the media: Jakob Lunds, Marcel Labonne, Marco Valbuena, Tunji Tunde
Elicit marriage proposals from fans: Marc Strand, Kwame Nelson, Reiss Claro-Hunt, Rene Claro-Hunt, Dequane Saint Etienne

STYLE MOD: +2.5

I Give To My Opponent The Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers: Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events: N
Injure Players: Y, I will decide the length of injury
Godmod Injury Events: N
Red Card Players: Y, no more than 1 per game please unless you TG me first
Yellow Card Players: Y
Godmod Other Events: Y, but please keep it realistic
=================================

by **Eshan** » Tue Apr 11, 2017 12:17 pm

"And thank you for that quick sports wrap-up, Timo. Again, that's Eshan 2-1 over Krytenia, a great victory in the AOCAF off goals from Anthony Baudelio and the mercurial Marco van Ciavatinni.

For the next segment of our show, I interview an Echani presidential candidate, Octavian Salazaar. Mr. Salazaar is a self-made man who drug himself out of the impoverished Dragoon region of the Gracmerian island. On the paybooks since he was only 12 years old, Octavian was employed and mixing work and education while his peers were still figuring out if girls had cooties or not. He put himself through the University of Rosaria, one of the most prestigious institutions in Eshan, by managing three restaurants expertly and graduating with honors in the fields of economics and marketing, with a concentration in political science. Octavian Salazaar jumped into the business real, starting, managing, and selling no less than nine companies for huge profits by the time he was 31. He then founded Salazaar Industries, a manufacturing titan who have come to produce an incredibly diverse portfolio, with products in the kitchen, military, courthouse, and automobiles. In short, they're everywhere. Octavian temporarily resigned and relinquished control of his capital interests when he won election to the Gracemeria Regional Assembly in the People's House at 32 years old, serving two-terms as a Representative for his childhood home district Dragoon. Governing as a committed conservative, he introduced and passed legislation that helped grow businesses in Dragoon, helping explode the economy and great development is going on the district now. After serving two terms, and another eight at the helm of Salazaar Industries, Octavian is running for President and he's here with us this morning! Mr. Salazaar, welcome to the show!"

"Thank you for having me, Elian, it's a pleasure to be on."

"Great, well it's good to have you with us and hear what you have to say. If it's no problem for you Mr. Salazaar, let's just jump right into it. Mr. Salazaar, why do you want to be President?"

"Well first things first, please call me Octavian; Mr. This or that is too formal, we're all friends here (laughs). In answer to your question, we as a people have been presented with an incredibly valuable opportunity to set the tone of our country. We have an opportunity to learn from the past and start anew, how brilliant is that? I want to be the first President of Eshan to forever put our country on the right track. There's a right and a wrong way to do things, a right and wrong way to move Eshan in, and I know that the policies I will pursue will move us in that right direction. I want to be President to make Eshan a strong, vibrant nation that, at its core, appeals to the drive of character that has made Eshan it's greatest."

"I'm sorry Octavian, but I'm going to have to jump in here. Drive of character? Sounds like something out of a sappy B-list movie."

"(laughs) No, no, nothing like that at all. When you look at the history of our nation, the highs, the lows, when you look at the great men and women of our nation, you will be struck by the strength of the individual. Our forefathers overcame tremendous obstacles by relying on themselves and their local communities to take action. It was the drive of their character; that strength of individualism that drove great change through our history. This is why I want to be President. We are a strong, proud people who have never let anything stand in the way of our future. We Echani have the capability to do anything we set our minds by enabling the individual, and as President I will seek to foster that attitude across the country, a celebration and unshackling the power of the individual."

"How are you going to 'enable the individual'? That's always been shorthand for cutting social services and tremendously harmful deregulation at the expense of the people."

"Well much needs to be done to address the current shortcomings facing our domestic production and business arenas, having worked in the industry for as long as I have, I see the areas we need and can make vast improvement in. Limited growth due to unfounded fear of consequences is denying our ability to be a world economic power. Now, please don't misunderstand that to mean that businesses can do whatever they want and dump things into the river, nothing like that. There are very real areas of concern, but a lot has been done to blow things out of proportion. I don't seek to cut social spending or punish the people or anything to that effect, I mean that's the opposite of what I want to accomplish. I want an Eshan where everyone benefits, not just a handful. That's not what this country is about. I'm not an advocate for less spending, but I am an advocate for smarter spending. That means greatly investigating fraud claims and transitioning aid from those not needing to those who can contribute the most in our society. Social programs are valuable in helping give people the power to pick themselves up by their bootstraps, helping fuel the fire inside of them to motivate individual success. On the other hand, overuse and unnecessary expansion of these services breeds a dependency on government to solve their problems for them, and I will not allow Eshan to fall trap to this malaise and despotism. I don't want to see this beautiful country fall sick to that infect and immobilize the upward trajectory of our nation."

"So to clarify, are you or are you not going to cut social spending if you were elected?"

"Elian, I'd have to see the exact numbers and state of the system but I am committed to smarter spending to inspire the success of our individual people in this society."

"Alright. Octavian, you've made the growth of Eshan's economy a core tenant of your platform. What sort of change are you seeking to enact as President?"

"Well I believe that the driving force behind any successful nation is the strength of its economy, and as President I will enable levels of growth not seen in decades. It's important to address a lot of tax issues we have as a nation. Sales, corporate, income, all these taxes need to be seriously reexamined for merit and how we can best apply them as tools to stimulate national growth. Lower and more selective taxes will help stimulate an environment of individuality and responsibility, rather than needless handouts that develop dependency and mindlessness. Investments are essential in our nation and perhaps we should revisit how we tax speculation and such sort of measures. We as a nation stand to benefit how we examine and rate such things."

"A hallmark of conservative nations across the world is for conservatives to have more limited view on equality of rights among races and sexes. What is your position on things such as race discrimination and the right of homosexuals to marry?"

"You know I'm glad you asked that Elian, because I am absolutely disgusted at such attitudes among…well anyone really. The happiness of your fellow human should be enough for you. Their color or love doesn't impact your ability to achieve what you want. Commit to a better we, and all of us can prosper. I find it to be quite simple really."

"Well I'm sure that will resonate with the vast majority of Echani. You've mentioned this sort of local community aspect; what does that say about your view on government?"

"That's a great question Elian, and you're absolutely right that I believe in locality. Look, the nationwide government is a phenomenal thing, and a powerful tool for overarching goals and collection of funding but when it comes down to it, who knows the specific and diverse needs of the people better? Is it the members of Congress of the President congregated in Rosaria? Or is it city and regional government? I would argue the later, and as President I would seek to address the issues of our nation in such a manner. I believe in using national funds as block grants with limited but specific guidelines to perfectly use the knowledge of local government with the resources of the national organization."

"That's an interesting take on things, I'm interested in hearing more expansion on this philosophy as your campaign progresses on. Unfortunately we're just about out of time so I'm gonna let you get the last word in with a general statement."

"Great well I'd just like to say to everyone listening that I am a firm believer in the will to power that resides in all of us. The power of the individual is something that can achieve the most wonderful and amazing of things. I believe in the strength of the Echani people and I will enable that as President. We will be a strong nation with the heart of the people behind it, and we will achieve greater things then we ever have before."

"I'm sorry Octavian, but that's all the time we got. Octavian Salazaar, CEO and former Regional Assemblyman, Presidential candidate, thank you for speaking with us!"

"Thanks for having me, Elian. Go Eshan!" Octavian Salazaar smacked himself; "Go Eshan???" What was he thinking??

by **Qasden** » Tue Apr 11, 2017 4:33 pm

A Most Grand Purchase
Part One

The prime minister's room was chock-full of cartographers and wealthy businessmen, hungry to bite at the proposition. For months, the economy has been depleting following the official's absence during most of the previous World Cup and Cup of Harmony. Some saw this as a chance to make their rich souls richer, while others sought to annhilate his government position for their own greedy needs.

Where is that freaking minister? I have money bags that need to be filled!
I can't stay close to the wages of peasants! These millennials are a disease!
I outta put my company somewhere else if I want to be rich, like Cathair or Emberton! Yes, Emberton....

AHEM!

The chattering silenced itself as the large and brawny voice was proceeded by the blaring of trumpets and confetti. Behind the band stood Rees and another cloaked entity. The businessmen looked puzzled. Some even laughed.

A little excessive, ay minister?
Yes, it can be, but I have no choice, he does.

The masked figure took off his hood and let down his long locks of dark brown hair. He opened his indigo eyes and spoke.

Gentlemen.
THE PRINCE?!?!

They all began to charge the royal figure as if he were the last gazelle, only to be shooed of by the aggressive band, who were actually just the monarch's entourage in disguise, as they remove the horns of their trumpets to reveal sheathed swords.

Back! I said BACK you money-hungry heathens!
Now now everyone. Please settle down and return to order.

Everyone returned to their standard roles as they remained hushed by the order of the Prince.

Right. Order. Anyways, it is now time for the discussion to begin. Mr. Sheers, as leader of the movement, you have the floor.
Thank you, guard.

The official begins his speech.

Esteemed prince and prime minister, cartographers and entrepreneurs of Qasden, I am here to propose a solution to our economic crisis.

Rees interrupts.

Crisis? What cri—
Häther, please.
Apologies.

Right. So as I was saying, the current state of Qasden's economy is dropping to one of its lowest points in the modern AO timeline. Us larger corporations are making just $1.2 billion more than small family-run franchises a month, a travesty if you ask me. What I see are 2 possible solutions. The first, to increase globalization within the Qad borders, enlarging the major cities of this nation and further industrializing our country.
And the second?
For Qasden to expand its borders.

The Prince stood up in heavy concern.

What exactly do you mean my "expand", Mr. Sheers? Isn't Qasden perfect the way it is now?
I must bite my thumb at that idea, Prince. You see, these borders are filled with nothing but tree-hugging millennials nowadays, and soon the entire country will be like that. What I am merely suggesting is that we invest money to the north and eastern portions of unoccupied territory surrounding Qasden strictly for industrial use. Otherwise, we could try and negotiate territory from Geisenfried or Milchama.

The Prince begins to laugh.

You bite your thumb at a beautiful metropolis and in return suggest we conquer our allies for the sake of more pollution? By Marlene, Mr. Sheers, I may apologize, but that's the dumbest idea I've ever heard! Besides, the north is strictly reserved for our agricultural havens.

A few businessmen began to snarl, but were quickly silenced by the royal guard. A young cartographer stands up, holding 4 pieces of paper, each with one of the other alliance nations' maps (Islana Lunigo, Parodys, Mercredi, New Scaiva and Horshenwurst).

Prince, if I may intervene. I've been doing the math and to me it seems some of our greatest allies may also be potential markets of expansion.
Go on.
Islana Lunigo is probably our biggest ally in terms of dependence. They're the Schiavonia to our Audioslavia. Their economy consists of 90% tourism and hospitality, with the other 10% being family-run mini businesses. I don't know about you, but to me that sounds like a cry for help. Parodys is now free of dictatorship status, but still in the deep red when it comes to money. Again, another very good market waiting to be found. Mercredi is probably the most developed nation of the 4, having been the only one to successfully manage several multi-million dollar companies while also having a boastful array of great local franchises, so they're not something to look at the moment. Lastly, there's New Scaiva and Horshenwürst, the youngest member of the alliance. I don't know much yet about their economy, but I do know that their location near Mercedini will make them a desirable market towards Novapax. In the end, we have the power to begin making these commonwealths of Qasden.

The Prince took this time to ponder. For once, change has been pondered.

by **Chromatika** » Tue Apr 11, 2017 10:01 pm

It'd been a good start for the Chromatiks so far this tournament. A 3-0 victory over Qasden at the Capitalizt Dome followed by a 2-1 victory over Audioslavia at Anomaly Tower. Parker was quite happy with their performance, and Kaytlyne Victoriane, Sandra Sybill, and Keira Andisori had contributed to the goals with Victoriane scoring twice. It was quite interesting to see how much the Chromatik game had evolved. It used to be that defenders and the keeper helped the game, with one or two counterattacks being all the offense. Now, Thorben just needed to rely on his back three and allow the rest of the game to be played way in front. It was something else altogether.

The team had been let go early after their meeting to enjoy their victory before planning for their match against Semarland. It was at this point that Nikolai Thorben gestured to his counterpart and rival, Jillian Nier. The media loved to pit the two against each other, but they really got along and enjoyed the competition. Nikolai knew that without Jillian, he would be half the goalkeeper that he was now, and she would be one of the hardest people to let go.

"What is it, Nick?" asked Jillian, using the pet name that they only called each other in private.

Nikolai put his head down before looking at Jillian.

"I have something to tell you, Jill," he said, "And you might not like it."

Jillian went over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. She cared for him quiet a bit.

"You can tell me anything, you know that," she replied.

"You know what's happened to all the Sunrise Islands? Western's team is going to join the rest of them in New Eden after the tournament," he started.

"Yeah. Too bad they're moving on, but what's that got to do with anything? Goalkeeper your caliber, you'll find a team to play for," she countered.

"That's it," Nikolai stated, looking at her in the eyes.

"I'm going with them."

by **Chromatika** » Tue Apr 11, 2017 11:00 pm

Matchday 3 Cutoff

Capital Group
Audioslavia 0–1 Qasden
Semarland 3–3 Chromatika
Starblaydia 1–2 The Redvale

Capital Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Chromatika                   3   2  1  0    8   4  +4    7
2 Qasden                       3   2  0  1    3   4  −1    6
3 Semarland                    3   1  2  0    5   4  +1    5
4 Audioslavia                  3   1  0  2    3   3   0    3
5 The Redvale                  3   1  0  2    2   4  −2    3
6 Starblaydia                  3   0  1  2    3   5  −2    1

Eastern Group
Tallaga la Falla 2–1 95X
Valanora 5–1 Taranga
Farfadillis 0–1 Blouman Empire

Eastern Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valanora                     3   2  1  0   11   3  +8    7
2 Tallaga la Falla             3   2  1  0    5   2  +3    7
3 95X                          3   2  0  1    8   5  +3    6
4 Blouman Empire               3   1  0  2    1   6  −5    3
5 Farfadillis                  3   0  1  2    5   7  −2    1
6 Taranga                      3   0  1  2    2   9  −7    1

Western Group
Oontaz Dert Li Ng 1–1 Eshan
Kyrgustan 0–2 Osarius
Krytenia 3–1 Tomikosan

Western Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Osarius                      3   3  0  0    5   1  +4    9
2 Krytenia                     3   2  0  1    6   3  +3    6
3 Eshan                        3   1  1  1    4   4   0    4
  Oontaz Dert Li Ng            3   1  1  1    4   4   0    4
5 Tomikosan                    3   1  0  2    5   6  −1    3
6 Kyrgustan                    3   0  0  3    0   6  −6    0

Island Group
Iskandervale 0–0 Tropicorp
Cosumar 1–0 Western Sunrise Islands
Ngolia 3–8 Vilita & Turori

Island Group                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Vilita & Turori              3   2  1  0   12   3  +9    7
2 Cosumar                      3   2  1  0    4   0  +4    7
3 Tropicorp                    3   1  2  0    5   2  +3    5
4 Western Sunrise Islands      3   1  1  1    2   2   0    4
5 Iskandervale                 3   0  1  2    0   5  −5    1
6 Ngolia                       3   0  0  3    4  15 −11    0

Last.fm · by **Cosumar** » Wed Apr 12, 2017 6:33 pm

DRAGONS MAILBAG:
ASSESSING THE TOP 5 NEW TRANSFER RUMORS

Jimmy Kelly
Transfer Window Analyst

Pearce's new-look young Vanquishers are off to a solid start in Chromatika - even with perennial favorites Vilita on seven points after defeating neighbors Western Sunrise Islands 1-0 last night. Kit Kvanderwyk, in resplendent form since the arrival of his Cornellians mentor and coach, was the star man again last night, scooping Bellerophon Serafino's brilliant back-to-goal flick over the goalkeeper effortlessly after a Sunrisian giveaway. The team's methodical, conservative approach to the last two matches, however, has inadvertently muted some of the excitement that would normally result from taking four points from two higher-ranked sides. Pearce seems to be focusing heavily on establishing defensive discipline as the first order of business under his watch. His back line has been airtight, allowing only three shots-on-goal in the last two. Against Vilitan and Sunrisian flair, that's quite an accomplishment. However, forward momentum has been sparing going the other way as well, Kvanderwyk's goal aside, making for two rather dour matches. It's natural, then, that much of the national conversation has shifted to the ongoing transfer window. With the business end of the window upon us, the rumors are s w i r l i n g. Many of these directly involve our players here at the AOCAF and the clubs they play for! Former Mallox star Jimmy Kelly, who we recently welcomed to the 'dark side' (AKA media punditry), is here to take a look at five of the latest high-profile storylines emerging and tell YOU whether they're true... or big fat misses.

1. Race For Romikk: best mate Ragnar a lure to Pasarga?
The fact that he hasn't scored yet in his six Cosumar starts since World Cup 77 hasn't seemed to dampen the interest in the West Gundar gem. Valgard is still being linked with new clubs around the Multiverse every day. Yes, *sigh*, even Bananas FC. Those close to the Valgard camp, however, have been telling me for weeks that it's most likely he ends up in Valladares or Pasarga. Tir Snake Strike was also keen on him, but the public beef between Valgard and TSS star Belarmin Worsaw makes it awfully hard to see that move going through. Pasarga is an interesting destination for the opposite reason: his great relationship with AOCAF strike partner and fellow youngster Ragnar Targaryen, who - of course - plays for CA Paulinthal. The specific destination in question, Tanrısal, could create some juicy SuperLiga title bouts headlined by Cosumarite strikers. No doubt Targaryen, now established at CAP, would love to see his best friend move to the same country. But is he actively whispering in Romikk's ear during this process? And, if so, how much sway does he have? Tanrısal have Ursula Rankin, so it's hard to see where Valgard would fit right away, but there are only so many Top 15 clubs in the world. Slowly developing in Pasarga worked out for Ragnar, after all. But he was only 17 when he got started there and Romikk will also be aware of Xavier Wingfield - a fellow member of the Cosumar U21 strikers fraternity who has had a frustrating time getting off the bench at Baskita and seen his international career stagnate as a result.
I'll give Valgard-to-Tani a... HIT. I think he has the talent to make his mark there relatively quickly, and such a world-class club would be great for his continued development. However, don't be surprised if he opts instead to become the immediate focal point at Pradera FC in Valladares as they look to rebuild around him.

EDIT: Just after this article was published, reports began flooding in that Gerhard Thunder and the Sabrefell Moths have swooped with a late bid for Valgard on the personal recommendation of Gethin Ramsey. Can the Moths offer the immediate starring role that Tanrısal can't and the UICA play that Pradera can't? It might be the perfect balance. We're still awaiting confirmation, but I also give this move a HIT. It remains to be seen, however, whether Valgard is ready for the world's best league and its notorious physicality.

2. Eastweald eyeing Cossadel as Quesadillas replacement amid MVC links?
The Eastweald front office have not been very discreet in shopping Dan Quesadillas around since the end of last season. Despite Eastweald scoring a bucketload of goals and finishing 3rd, Quesadillas and heralded signing Penumbra Amokachi didn't always mesh up top. They both wanted to occupy the same spaces and make the same runs. Amokachi usually won that battle, but she shouldn't have to fight increasingly stout Harlighet Ligan defenses AND her own teammate. So it's no surprise that the club is looking to cash in on the Mertian, their fourth-all-time leading goalscorer, while his value is still high at 30 years old. It's not a matter of if he goes, but when and where. That begs the question, then, of who the Elves will pair with Amokachi next season. A newspaper in Cenial spotted Eastweald manager Monica Brightwater meeting with Ceni international Aeris Cossadel earlier today. Intriguing. More of a playmaking second-striker, Cossadel wouldn't hinder the dominant Amokachi as a partner as Quesadillas did at times. He might even single-handedly double her chances. Plus, he brings that title-winning experience that Eastweald desperately crave.
I give this a massive HIT. The only question is whether Eastweald will have enough budget left over if they also land first-priority target Marco van Ciavatinni. The Eshani winger is expected to go for upwards of $25 million. Many fans want to see Cassel Kortuufa get a chance with Amokachi full-time, but I don't see him as anything more than a solid rotational option for a championship team.

3. Nagdalene to make hero's return to Cassandra?
People in Cresscalus Fief are hopeful that the dissolution of the Sunrisian league means that folk hero Thorodel Nagdalene will finally make his return to The Amphitheatre. The 29-year-old Granger Dragonites striker delivered the club its first title in the 89th minute of the legendary final-matchday championship match against Ramusok United nine years ago with an amazing volley. They still sing about him every Saturday to this day. While it would be lovely to see Nagdalene and his gorgeous shot in the all-red again, I just don't see it. We know his ego is not insubstantial. He will want to start. But who does he displace? Marcos Zelaya? Jol Tortuu? Jason Goulding? Not a chance. Not after that attacking trident just won the league. We also know he may not feel as sentimental about the club as they do about him. He left for the Islands immediately after winning that title, after all. I think he'll go to the highest bidder that offers him a guaranteed starring role and a paycheck sizable enough to make him feel like a big-shot.
MISS. Maybe someday, Cassandra City fans. Maybe someday. But if the prodigal son never returns, take comfort in that it will probably be because you outgrew him.

4. Roijacker Varezzi's man?
1009 was a storybook season for Samaj FC, the one time yo-yo club gliding all the way to 4th on the wings of a universally-beloved manager in Luis Varezzi and four sparkling young internationals in the attack. One of whom, 19-year-old forward Vega Zeale-Riddick, has become Alexander Pearce's first-choice off the bench in Chromatika. Another, Darrius Columbine, is key player for 95X out in the Eastern Group. The sun has never shined so bright in Culmarland (and that's saying something). But now, with Globe Cup fixtures on the horizon for the first time in club history, Varezzi needs reinforcements. And where does he need them? He'll tell you. In just about every single press conference since the end of last season, Varezzi has insisted how much he needs an experienced center back to lead the UICA charge. Even people in the black hole that was the Northern Sunrise Islands surely know by now. Varezzi wants a veteran center back. The Culmarland Fief Herald leaked the news earlier this week that the club was near a deal with AC Izotz Zubia for Audioslavia center back Niels Roijacker. That fits the bill! The 34-year-old is as sturdy of a defender as they come, with oozles of LigAnaia, UICA and international experience. He's won a Champions' Cup at Zozi, but can he do it in the Globe Cup on a scorching hot Tuesday afternoon in Samaj?
This is an obvious HIT from SFC's perspective and it makes a lot of sense. They might not have the financial muscle to win an escalating bidding war with, say, a Nepharim club - if it comes to that.

5. Forget 'Blues'... Ramusok United now 'Raiders'?
It has been a funny offseason for Ram U. Gareth Bournemouth did just enough last season to stay, settling into the fifth UICA spot. But instead of the stability and satisfied roster that usually results from such a season, he's faced with reports that key starters like Felix Shaw, Mike Flanningan, Kira Jonassen, Seon Jin Kang, Antonio Mulcair and Elena Culbreth all might be outgoing one way or another - either by sale or by retirement. Yet, at the same time, club officials have also publicly stated that United will refrain from overpriced international transfers during this window. It seems logical, then, that they will turn to talent from elsewhere within the Harlighet Ligan to fill these crucial spots, right? The rumor mill sure thinks so. The Blues have been linked with just about every top performer you can think of from last season's lower-table teams. Lilly Kearney from Holmenkollen. Barrus-Bari from Samotath. Viablaine from Pelethas. Tajo Carr-Ponce from Islanders. DeKlan from Islanders. Gavin Chamberlain from Alliance. Even Bennett Perkins and Sophia Trevelyan. And more. Sheesh. If even half of these links are true, we might as well call them the Raiders. They'll be fielding close to a Full XI of players raided from worse teams.
I give most of these a MISS. First of all, I don't think they'll sell Kira Jonassen. A loud minority of supporters have been vocal about needing a better defensive player at the base of the diamond, but Jonassen's passing range and accuracy is irreplaceable. Word out of Ramusok is also that they're high enough on 22-year-old striker Nacho Bérdoon that they feel like they don't need to go get a Trevelyan type. I think Perkins goes abroad before trading Kaldukosic for its biggest rival. You get the picture. Maybe one or two of these actually happen. But not enough to rename East Ramusok's club "Raiders United".

While transfer window is a time of constant F5-ing for anxious fans, those in the national team insist their focus is entirely on the AOCAF. Cassandra City midfielder Bellerophon Serafino insisted he hadn't even heard about the Thorodel Nagdalene saga when asked. Even Romikk Valgard, the only current Vanquisher whose fate is up in the air, reiterated the point. "Cosumar has never been able to achieve in regional competition to a degree commensurate with our world standing," Valgard said. This group is 100% focused on being the ones to finally fix that. I told my agent 'I'm not taking any calls about club situation while I'm here in Chromatika'." That said, it must surely be in the back of Valgard's mind that his play here will directly influence his value on the international market. If Cosumar wins the AOCAF and he scores in the final, for example, he might just increase his salary and West Gundar FC's cut by 50%. With Cosumar playing so defensively against Vilita & Turori and Western Sunrise Islands, his chances have been few and far between. With the those two difficult matches out of the way now, look for him score his first career AOCAF goal against Iskandervale or Tropicorp to close the group stage. The Vanquishers take on The Flock, led by Zakhoro Aces striker Kurtis Samarqand, tomorrow night in Myana. An expected win could be made even more valuable if Vilita & Turori trip up against Tropicorp.

by **Osarius** » Thu Apr 13, 2017 2:53 pm

Osarius Squad for AOCAF 53

Team: Osarius National Football Team (aka "The Firebirds")
Style modifier: +1.5 (counter/possession-based attacking)

I recommend at least skim-reading the next section, or the wiki page on the "Osarian 4-3-3", if you intend to RP the match in detail.

The team will generally attempt to control possession rather than engage in consciously defensive play; and "parking the bus" is a cardinal sin. When out of possession, the team will generally press high up the pitch to compress the available space -- because they are largely comfortable playing the ball under pressure -- and try to win the ball back as quickly as possible, sometimes over-committing, and leaving themselves vulnerable to a swift counterattack. Generally pacy defenders help to alleviate this problem somewhat.

Against stronger opponents, expect to see a more defensive positioning manifest itself, though. Fullbacks will be less likely to bomb forward, and the team tends to be more conservative in possession, often playing backward to draw the opposition in, before launching a devastating counter attack with pace. They will also slow down when ahead later in the game, but only so they don't unnecessarily provide opportunities to lose possession and/or concede. This doesn't mean they wont take the opportunity to score if it presents itself, though... it's all a bit Bruce Lee in that sense. "When the opponent advances, we retreat. When the opponent retreats, we advance. When there is an opportunity to score, we do not score. It scores all by itself." Or something like that.

The front line of three is often very flexible, with all three (usually) capable of playing in any of the front three roles at any given time. Most of the time, the centre forward/striker will remain the focal point of the team's central attacking, though, whether they are receiving passes or moving to make space for the wingers.

The midfield will almost always be lined up in way that the three players form a sideways arrow (minus the shaft). By this, I mean that one will sit deep, one will push forward, and one will be a box-to-box type shuttling between the two. On the occasions no specifically named attacking midfielder ("AM" in the squad list) is used, typically it is an indicator that the manager expects a tighter battle for possession in the midfield zone, and it's likely two midfielders will be box-to-box, while the third midfielder is a more defensively-inclined (possibly even a "DM") option.

If there IS an attacking midfielder on the pitch, they will operate either as a playmaker, and most passages of play will go through them... or they will push forward from midfield a lot, getting onto the end of passes in the final third, and thus scoring a fair few goals. I'll try to highlight which of the two if I feel like it really matters. Typically speaking, if none of the other two midfielders is mentioned as being outright defensive, the attacking midfielder is a "playmaker" type.

Defensively, Osarian centre-backs are typically pacy and expected to have strong aerial ability and good positional awareness. The latter part is less important if a player is particularly quick, though. Almost certainly, one of the centre backs or the goalkeeper will be good at organising the defence. In cases where there is a notable lack of organisational skill -- typically in situations lacking experience -- there is a clear knock-on effect on the rest of the team. With that in mind, don't expect starting centre backs to be among the younger or less experienced members of the team.

The fullbacks typically overlap a lot -- considering how often the wingers change sides and become "inverted" (i.e. cutting inside the defender on their stronger foot, rather than pulling wide) -- and seem to operate almost as advanced as wingbacks (or even midfielders against considerably weaker teams) a lot of the time, making the system a sort of like a 3-4-3 when Osarius attack, due to the deepest central midfielder dropping back to a position right in front of the defence, to counter against a potential playmaker "in the hole" for the opposition. This can be a potential weak point if this player is small in stature, as they will often get drawn into the backline and thus, potentially mismatched against forwards.

If you did read the spoiler above, thank you! You don't have to stick to all of that, it just fits in better with the way I intend to RP my team (when I can).

Manager: Ayanna Barca-Carthy
Assistant Manager: Autumn Phelps
Captain: Carmen Grana
Vice-captain: Jorge Estevez
3rd captain: Kyle Carter

The Squad

No.  Pos. Player Name           Current Club                 
#01  GK   SHELLY-ANN Pearce     [OSR] AFC Hollybrent
#02  RB   Kyle CARTER           [EUR] Spartangrad
#03  LB   George DAWSON         [OSR] Firewood City
#04  CM   Carmen GRANA          [OSR] Utica United
#05  CB   Rosetta VOZZO         [OSR] Shanak FC
#06  CB   Peter COLE            [OSR] Trothwands Evolution
#07  WNG  Kyron BARTLEY         [NPH] Brinemouth
#08  CM   Jorge ESTEVEZ         [OSR] Qubadili FC
#09  ST   Koren UDOWU           [VIL] Marine Coast United
#10  AM   Lloyd ALLEN           [OSR] Firewood City
#11  LW   Raimondo MONTANARI    [VIL] Jungle Strike FC
#12  GK   Graziella PELLEGRINI  [OSR] Alissar Phoenix
#14  CF   James WARWICK         [OSR] AFC Hollybrent
#15  CB   Sarah WARD            [COS] Crawford City
#16  RCB  George SIMPSON        [OSR] Burningham City
#17  LCB  Chikelu EMEAGWALI     [OSR] Dynapolis United
#18  CM   Adrian ALEJANDRO      [OSR] Greeningham City
#19  RB   Julia PRICE           [FFD] Avenida Principal
#20  CM   Evelyn McINTOSH       [OSR] Hastmead Diamante
#21  DM   Dylan WOOD            [OSR] Real Jraxville   
#22  RW   Scott BRYANT          [OSR] Kyoshiku Island
#23  AM   Gustavo BARONE        [OSR] AFC Hollybrent
#24  GK   Emily HENDERSON       [QAS] Real Qad City (loan)

Usual starting lineup: [ 4-3-3 ] Shelly-Ann; Dawson, Cole, Vozzo, Carter; Grana, Estevez, Allen; Montanari, Udowu, Bartley

by **Eshan** » Thu Apr 13, 2017 8:55 pm

Screen goes black.

"The first President of Eshan is an opportunity to forever shape the future of Eshan, and shape it in the mold of the Phoenix Party."

Screen changes to historical downtown Isla San-Renee. A man walks into focus from stage left.

"National security, economic freedom, pride in country and people, personal liberty. These are the main values of the Phoenix Party, and the ones central to my agenda. Hi folks, my name is Alexandre Haviland, and I am proud to be running for President."

Alexandre Haviland walks down a sidewalk towards the camera.

"Government can be a tool for great good for the nation provided it doesn't lose track of what makes it great, or overstep what its roles are. My opponents seem intent on greatly expanding the scope of our national government; to that I must disagree. As a candidate from the libertarian Phoenix Party, I run on the radical notion that everyone is living out their own experiment in life, and should be enabled to live a free life. The goal of my government is simply to create a national framework for these experiments to be realized."

Scene changes to show Haviland standing in front of Rosaria's North Shore.

"As President I will focus on national defense, social and economic liberties, and seeking to ensure that Echani citizens have the greatest amount of personal freedom in the face of government. I am an advocate for personal freedoms; my government won't care about your sexual orientation, your personal and gender identity as that isn't the government's business, we will pursue equal rights for all. I will fight for total freedom of speech, opinion, and expression; you should be able to express your thoughts and feelings without fear. The open discussion of thoughts and opinions, right and wrong, contribute to the building of our great nation. Words and ideas will become our currency as Eshan becomes a destination marketplace for the free exchange of information. Financial freedom is another area I will pursue as President; we must lower personal and business taxes to help stimulate economic activity, while addressing the regulatory swamp our country has become, will unshackle Echani businesses to boom Eshan to the front of the Atlantian Oceania. As President I will seek to further decriminalize and legalize drug use; the use of drugs is a personal decision and will be treated as such. If you aren't harming anyone with your habit, life is yours to live."

Scene changes to Alexandre Haviland standing in the Grand Hall in the Capitol of Eshan.

"Yes, I am a staunch advocate for limited government, I believe too much federal power leads to a corresponding lack in personal freedoms. That being said, there are areas where government must be extremely robust, none more so than national security. At the heart of the individual-government contract is the government's duty to protect its people against threats both foreign and domestic. I will greatly expand the national defense and police forces, and enter Eshan into the regional and world scene. I am also a proponent for a strong public education system to help our children prepare for life, not just finding jobs and being mindless workers."

Alexandre Haviland looks directly into the camera.

"My opponents desire either an unwieldy, vastly overreaching government or completely removing government from the equation. This is WRONG! I am an advocate for a different role of government, one that seeks to enable the ability of you, the people of Eshan, to live life your own unique and beautiful way. I will enable you and foster a positive atmosphere for the Echani people, and Make Eshan Great!"

by **Valanora** » Thu Apr 13, 2017 9:40 pm

"Do you think that our domestic scene and national team are becoming... I don't know, a bit stale or stagnant? It just feels like there is not as much as excitement around the clubs and the national team as there used to be, like the interest is waning even as the team begins to find its footing in the footballing world once more."

"How do you mean? From what I can tell, the players and fans alike for club and country alike seem as interested and boastful as ever."

"I can not really explain it, it is just this feeling of a waning amount of interest for the game, perhaps it is merely my own disillusioned state being projected onto others. I admit, I have found it quite difficult to sit through an entire match or to concentrate on the way that the teams are doing. I do not know why, it just feels like there is something missing from it all to keep myself entertained."

"Is there not a value of entertainment in merrily enjoy a sporting competition or to see our teams triumph as they so often do in the international competitions that the VSC enters them in?"

"There was for a time but it feels a bit hollow as of late, as if it is all meaningless in the grand scheme of the cosmos. Do you think perhaps it could be a sympton of Elune not currently guarding Silverymoon but is instead on a mission in other parts of the universe? I have heard the priests and priestesses talking about how they have not been able to commune with her in the last year."

"It is perhaps, though I think maybe you have become overburdened with your work and the levels of stress that it has caused you. I would highly suggest spending some time away and getting some much needed and deserved rest and relaxation when you can. The mind is a muscle like any other and it too grows tired, it would seem to me that this is merely the case with you my friend and that so vacation time is well due."

"Perhaps you are right, it has been an awful long while since I have been able to have a few days to myself and just enjoy some of the small things. I think I might make a pilgramage to Mount Sumarja, the journey and the temple there could do wonders for my mental fatigue."

"May Elune guide your path and may you find the comforts that shall ease your burden."

by **Qasden** » Thu Apr 13, 2017 10:48 pm

A Most Grand Purchase
Part Two

Underthought.
Excuse me?
What the Prince is saying is that your plan needs revision, and lots of it. The countries you described are our closest allies, all either economically stable or too difficult to reach. Tell me, where did you get your degree in?
Pardon?
What college? Alma mater? Failing NSCAA school?
Tri-Border State, sir.

The crowd began mumbling amongst themselves. The young cartographer sat down while another diplomat stands up, closing his phone and placing it in his pocket.

Pardon, monsieurs. Frédérick Jemair, University of Rouxport. I just received word that the Sunrisian conglomerate is withdrawing several occupancies, including quite a few hidden gems. Ever heard of Duckota?
The Sunrisians are withdrawing?

Jemair nods, much to the Prince's dismay

Well that's quite unfortunate. We never did get to battle them on the World Cup stage.
What all do you know about the purchases?
I'll tell ya. Barra e Janeiro and Duckota, along with two others, are now semi-occupied by the Dainerian government, but there's still much more markets. Balm, Esvorpita, even Tiki Lodge. As far as I know, the conglomerate is wittling away, it seems. Reportedly North by Northwestern Sunrise Islands has sunken into the big blue.
Such a shame...

The prince paused.

Guards, get the foreign affairs administry to contact Mardi as soon as possible.

by **Chromatika** » Thu Apr 13, 2017 11:03 pm

Matchday 4 Cutoff

Capital Group
Qasden 1–1 The Redvale
Chromatika 2–0 Starblaydia
Audioslavia 2–0 Semarland

Capital Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Chromatika                   4   3  1  0   10   4  +6   10
2 Qasden                       4   2  1  1    4   5  −1    7
3 Audioslavia                  4   2  0  2    5   3  +2    6 Can't Finish First
4 Semarland                    4   1  2  1    5   6  −1    5 Can't Finish First
5 The Redvale                  4   1  1  2    3   5  −2    4 Can't Finish First
6 Starblaydia                  4   0  1  3    3   7  −4    1 Eliminated

Eastern Group
95X 1–1 Blouman Empire
Taranga 1–5 Farfadillis
Tallaga la Falla 2–3 Valanora

Eastern Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valanora                     4   3  1  0   14   5  +9   10
2 95X                          4   2  1  1    9   6  +3    7
3 Tallaga la Falla             4   2  1  1    7   5  +2    7
4 Farfadillis                  4   1  1  2   10   8  +2    4 Can't Finish First
5 Blouman Empire               4   1  1  2    2   7  −5    4 Can't Finish First
6 Taranga                      4   0  1  3    3  14 −11    1 Eliminated

Western Group
Eshan 3–0 Tomikosan
Osarius 0–0 Krytenia
Oontaz Dert Li Ng 2–0 Kyrgustan

Western Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Osarius                      4   3  1  0    5   1  +4   10
2 Eshan                        4   2  1  1    7   4  +3    7
3 Krytenia                     4   2  1  1    6   3  +3    7
4 Oontaz Dert Li Ng            4   2  1  1    6   4  +2    7
5 Tomikosan                    4   1  0  3    5   9  −4    3 Eliminated
6 Kyrgustan                    4   0  0  4    0   8  −8    0 Eliminated

Island Group
Tropicorp 1–3 Vilita & Turori
Western Sunrise Islands 2–0 Ngolia
Iskandervale 1–3 Cosumar

Island Group                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Vilita & Turori              4   3  1  0   15   4 +11   10
2 Cosumar                      4   3  1  0    7   1  +6   10
3 Western Sunrise Islands      4   2  1  1    4   2  +2    7
4 Tropicorp                    4   1  2  1    6   5  +1    5 Can't Finish First
5 Iskandervale                 4   0  1  3    1   8  −7    1 Eliminated
6 Ngolia                       4   0  0  4    4  17 −13    0 Eliminated

by **Eshan** » Sat Apr 15, 2017 10:35 am

The Rosaria Statesman
YUUUUGE TRANSFER NEWS PRE-FINAL AOCAF MATCHDAY

Yesssssir you read that there headline right there correctly, for there is YUUUUGE TRANSFER NEWS PRE-FINAL AOCAF MATCHDAY

!

Now you see here that this is right before the fifth and final matchday of this here AOCAF tournament that there has been confirmed news of a massive transfer in Eshan football. Yessir you done did read that right, news here coming in that Marco van Ciavatinni, the indisputable greatest Echani footballer of all time bar none mind you yessir, has completed a move to bigly exotic club Myrmidon in the Republic of Ceni. The 35th best club in the world is a perennial league contender but I do reckon that with Mr. MvC over there right there that they will be even more up there always winning titles and such mind you yessir I done did say right there that I did yessir. Defending league champions as a matter of fact, believe me folks when I say that I know people in Ceni that are saying, now no doubt here nossireeee that there isn't no doubt at all that with MvC, greatest Echani footballer of all time mind you now I'm telling you in fifty years, no doubt, no doubt at all, folks over there, all over really are saying that Myrmidon will win it all again, all the titles they can all of them all over. Direct Champions Cup Group Stage entry, why believe me people that there is good enough as a winners medal with Marco on that there team, no doubt when you think about it, thinking is good, something I do a lot of folks, so trust me when I say there that Myrmidon will win the next Champions Cup no doubt there, nope none at all nossir.

National team stars like Jacob Zajon, Corran Celgis, Mr. Sam Billic hello there, I have people in the UICA, real veterans, real old boys club type people yessir you know that there type and I'm telling you folks that the UICA is as good as Myrmidon's with all those yuge names and now with a big ole transfer of our own Marco van Ciavatinni trust me folks, good as done. League, international, who knows maybe they could even, and trust me folks I have people telling me that they would love it if Myrmidon did this, if they were, and I know tons of people who would cheer them on, ditch their team and cheer Myrmidon, if they were to play in the World Cup; trust. me. folks. If Myrmidon, that club with Billic, Corran Celgis, Master Zajon with our own Mr. MvC, they could really do it all and it would be simply spectacular folks. Myrmidon: Ceni League, UICA League, World Cup League, all league winners I really believe it folks.

Trust me now when I say Marco van Civatinni and with them that club named Myrmidon that he did move there he done did it yessir that they will go on to win all of it and I'm not the only one saying this folks because I know people everywhere, big people and all those people you know who make it go, and everyone and their dog and their cat's wives are saying that it's as good as done that Myrmidon will win it all yes they will mark me now sir you can believe that.

by **Chromatika** » Sat Apr 15, 2017 11:00 pm

Matchday 5 Cutoff

Capital Group
Semarland 4–4 Qasden
Starblaydia 0–2 Audioslavia
The Redvale 4–4 Chromatika

Capital Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Chromatika                   5   3  2  0   14   8  +6   11 Quarterfinals
2 Audioslavia                  5   3  0  2    7   3  +4    9 Playoffs
3 Qasden                       5   2  2  1    8   9  −1    8 Playoffs
4 Semarland                    5   1  3  1    9  10  −1    6 Eliminated
5 The Redvale                  5   1  2  2    7   9  −2    5 Eliminated
6 Starblaydia                  5   0  1  4    3   9  −6    1 Eliminated

Eastern Group
Valanora 2–0 95X
Farfadillis 2–0 Tallaga la Falla
Blouman Empire 1–2 Taranga

Eastern Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Valanora                     5   4  1  0   16   5 +11   13 Quarterfinals
2 Farfadillis                  5   2  1  2   12   8  +4    7 Playoffs
3 95X                          5   2  1  2    9   8  +1    7 Playoffs
4 Tallaga la Falla             5   2  1  2    7   7   0    7 Eliminated
5 Blouman Empire               5   1  1  3    3   9  −6    4 Eliminated
6 Taranga                      5   1  1  3    5  15 −10    4 Eliminated

Western Group
Kyrgustan 0–3 Eshan
Krytenia 2–0 Oontaz Dert Li Ng
Tomikosan 1–3 Osarius

Western Group                Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Osarius                      5   4  1  0    8   2  +6   13 Quarterfinals
2 Eshan                        5   3  1  1   10   4  +6   10 Playoffs
3 Krytenia                     5   3  1  1    8   3  +5   10 Playoffs
4 Oontaz Dert Li Ng            5   2  1  2    6   6   0    7 Eliminated
5 Tomikosan                    5   1  0  4    6  12  −6    3 Eliminated
6 Kyrgustan                    5   0  0  5    0  11 −11    0 Eliminated

Island Group
Cosumar 4–3 Tropicorp
Ngolia 2–4 Iskandervale
Vilita & Turori 2–0 Western Sunrise Islands

Island Group                 Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Vilita & Turori              5   4  1  0   17   4 +13   13 Quarterfinals
2 Cosumar                      5   4  1  0   11   4  +7   13 Playoffs
3 Western Sunrise Islands      5   2  1  2    4   4   0    7 Playoffs
4 Tropicorp                    5   1  2  2    9   9   0    5 Eliminated
5 Iskandervale                 5   1  1  3    5  10  −5    4 Eliminated
6 Ngolia                       5   0  0  5    6  21 −15    0 Eliminated

Playoff Schedule

Play-In Round
July 27 12 PM Audioslavia vs. 95X - The Shock, Wirr Tsi | 3:25 PM Eshan vs. Western Sunrise Islands - Riders' Arena, Pùr
July 28 4:35 PM Farfadillis vs. Qasden - The Pack, Pria | 4:35 PM Cosumar vs. Krytenia - The Jungle, Eyrods

Quarterfinals
August 1 1:10 PM Vilita & Turori vs. Audioslavia/95X - United Center, Urrheddiao | 4:35 PM Chromatika vs. Cosumar/Krytenia - RCK Field, Alnio
August 2 3:25 PM Osarius vs. Farfadillis/Qasden - The Hive, Deprí Sanar | 6:40 PM Valanora vs. Eshan/Western Sunrise Islands - Z'ai'ai Field, Z'ai'ai

Semifinals
August 6 3:35 PM Vilita & Turori/Audioslavia/95X vs. Valanora/Eshan/Western Sunrise Islands - Anomaly Tower, Chromatik City | 7:25 PM Chromatika/Cosumar/Krytenia vs. Osarius/Farfadillis/Qasden - Hawks' Nest, Deprí Lanar

3rd Place Match
August 9 6:40 PM Semifinal Loser vs. Semifinal Loser - Island Dome, Myana

AOCAF LIII Championship
August 10 7:25 PM Semifinal Winner vs. Semifinal Winner - Capitalizt Dome, Chromatik City

by **95X** » Sun Apr 16, 2017 3:18 pm

Loose Ends
As some may recall, Xi Foureleven was captured and imprisoned by the Capital of Culture Corporation, where she ran into former 95X President Jason Clinton as well as former teammate Jordyn Third. Clinton was deposed and Third was framed by the Corporation. Foureleven had the means for the three to escape.

The winged conjoined cocopony landed on a nondescript, seemingly-abandoned Pacific City building Jason Clinton was aware of from his time as a news anchor. Clinton explained that when they needed video footage for a story regarding sensitive topics, they'd stage it there.

"The public isn't supposed to know this, for obvious reasons," he suffixed.

Inside was a room that looked like it was set up for hostage situations: a windowless room with peeling paint, a wooden chair, rope, black fabric, blindfolds, gags, and a video recorder. Clinton then revealed the adjacent room with broadcast equipment and a link to the TV network newsrooms. The trio recorded a video that they hoped would expose the Capital of Culture Corporation for what they really were.

Instead of reaching the networks, though, the Corporation had already redirected the line, and its military-like police stormed the building. Xi had the physical strength and fighting art skill to fight them off. Clinton was unlucky and received his untimely demise. Third survived the ambush.

"We should get out of here," Foureleven stated to Third. "There is no telling what else is in store for us."

Third slowly walked toward Foureleven, where she shifted her weight onto Foureleven's arms. That's when Foureleven noticed Third was alive yet was mortally wounded. There was only one person who could do anything for them now.

"Stay with me, Jordyn, keep your eyes open," she said as the two rode the winged conjoined cocopony into the distance.

A ways from the central core was Xi Foureleven's house, where they met up with Jason Ninetyfivex. However when they arrived, Third seemed to had passed on.

"She was a foul-mouthed nymphomaniac," Foureleven commented, "however nobody deserves this! Load her backup file!"

"I thought you said that was the worst thing I ever did to you," Ninetyfivex replied.

"She was also a teammate!" Foureleven insisted.

"Alright," Ninetyfivex said, pulling out a tablet and issuing a command to restore her file from a backup. A prompt appeared, and Ninetyfivex stared at the screen for a good minute, then sighed.

"You're not going to believe this," Ninetyfivex said, while showing Foureleven what was on the screen.

"I told you to make more frequent backups!" Foureleven snapped back, smacking him across the cheek.

Ninetyfivex added some info to be added to the restored file, and asked Foureleven it if was okay with her. When it was, he asked Foureleven to place Third's body onto a fold-out bed that was in the room.

Ninetyfivex selected "yes" on the tablet. The scene flickered for a few seconds. When it stopped, everything was almost as it was before. Only a few seconds had passed.

Jordyn yawned, stretched, opened her eyes, and felt very different. When she turned her head and looked at Xi looking back at her, she felt a subliminal sense that the two had a long and contentious past while having a strange child-like feeling of hero worship for her.

"Mom?" Jordyn eeked, immediately covering her mouth like she couldn't believe she said that.

"Jordyn," Xi replied, "I have to explain. For years you have known 'RL' as a conspiracy theory however the fact is that it is true. My agent is nothing more than a decoy from 'RL.' I have some of his power, however I needed his help to bring you back."

"Bring me back?" Jordyn questioned, "and why is my voice so high? And why do I look at Mom and call her Mom?"

"You're a file on a computer system," Ninetyfivex added. "You faced an untimely fate and was brought back through a backup. However, you're also eleven years old again and to bring you back you're now Xi's adopted daughter."

"But I remember being an adult," Jordyn said while trying to sit up, however she was far shorter than her adult height and her feet didn't reach the floor. "I remember playing pro soccer with Mom, this is weird."

Ninetyfivex got up and got Jordyn a glass of water. This was a lot for someone who was a conservative 95Xer who wasn't supposed to know what Xi did to take in. She drank it and looked around.

"From now on," Xi welcomed, "my home is now your home. My last number is now yours as well. 'Third' can be your middle name should you wish. However you are lucky that you have a proper first name instead of a number."

There was only one other matter to resolve.

"BIG SIS!" was screamed from down the hallway.

Sarah Foureleven ran into the room and tacklesqueezed Jordyn.

"IloveyouIloveyouIloveyou!" Sarah greeted her, kissing her cheek.

"You're squeezing me, can't breathe," Jordyn grunted.

"Sarah!" Xi interjected. "Jordyn is not a normal big syster, just as you are also a Foureleven. Be more gentile on her!"

She turns and whispers something to Ninetyfivex.

"Her entire personality has changed. It was dark and demon-like, now it is bubbly and happy-go-lucky."

"Well, she's six years old and just learned she has an older sister." Ninetyfivex replied. "That would change anybody."

Plans Change

The house phone rang one fateful day at Xi Foureleven's house. Xi answered and spoke to a police officer in a foreign country.

"Mrs. Foureleven?" the voice said. "I'm sorry to inform you that your husband is dead."

Xi dropped the handset, which hit the floor. She then picked it up and hung up the call. Next, she checked her tablet, which confirmed the bad news.

It was in a foreign country. Jason Ninetyfivex could do nothing to change it.

Xi went to her room, packed a suitcase with some things, and called the others.

"Jordyn! Sarah!" Xi called, while handing them some luggage.

"What's wrong?" Sara asked.

"Things have gone wrong. Pack some clothing, we have to go, now!"

"Where are we going?"

"Some would call it 'underground,' the only thing that is certain is we are not safe here!"

When unfriendly forces found their way to the Foureleven house, the remaining Fourelevens were nowhere in sight.

by **Eshan** » Mon Apr 17, 2017 9:39 am

The Sebio Sentinel
Green Party Senator Narcisa van Laren Cruyff Announces Presidential Campaign

In a brief statement and policy sheet release early on Sunday morning, Green Party Senator Narcisa van Laren Cruyff has officially entered the race for the first Presidency of Eshan. As a member of the Green Party, Senator Cruyff's policy list is environmentally friendly to the core, and places green development and policy above all else. In a race against a social democrat, libertarian, and conservative, this sort of 'exotic' position is sure to draw attention in a nation already known for its spectacular beauty and environmental diversity. Her statement is as follows:

Eshan. A nation of hardworking, talented people, and natural beauty that the rest of Atlantian Oceania could only hope to have. We are a nation that values our roots as an ancient people; the world gave us life, nurtured us, raised us into the wonderful and advanced society that we are today. Throughout all our history, we have cherished the beauty and fruitfulness of our natural Eshan, and yet in recent decades we have swung away from the care of nature, into a world unto ourselves, devoted to pursuing more and more, discarding waste and poisoning our mother earth with emissions and garbage and waste and life itself. We are killing that which has made us great, we are destroying our home in the pursuit of the abstract and meaningless, and this in turn is coming back to haunt us. Climate change, health issues, shrinking natural wilderness, the beauty of our world is slowly withering and greying due to our own hand. My fellow Echani, it is time we take responsibility for our naturally devastating actions and work to rectify the situation. The environment cannot wait my friends; it's up to us to act on it's behalf and fight to protect that what makes us beautiful. Vote Green, and vote for all Eshan.

-Senator Narcisa van Laren Cruyff, Green Party candidate for the first Presidency of Eshan

In terms of mission statements, this is a great one that really lays out what her platform is all about. Community, the natural world, preserving and caring about what we have, radically redefining social values and shifting the national conscious towards awareness and conservation as opposed to consumerism and wastefulness. As this article will show, her policy proposals really follow through on those core ideals, heavily regulating business while promoting green energy and sustainable practices. I'll go over her different policy proposals and comment on what we can think about them, and be giving my own thoughts and opinions on the matter so those are all my own.

Ensure every Echani has access to a living wage paying job
—Well, yeah obviously you want to try for access to jobs. Based on the rest of the platform, we can expect her to pursue this through green infrastructure job creation and expansion of government services.
Massively increase green energy investment with the aim of transitioning Eshan to 100% renewable energy by 2030
—This is absolutely something I can get behind. The perils of non-renewable energy sources are well documented and can't be denied, so a hard and definitive push towards green energy is precisely what this nation needs. This will also play into Senator Cruyff's pledge to ensure access to paying jobs.
Institute very restrictive factory emission regulations
—Again, another smart proposal from the Senator; factory emissions greatly contribute to choking greenhouse gas emissions and it is essential to slice them down no matter what the cost.
Increase the federal fuel efficiency standard to foster the development of greener cars
—While I'm not sure aggressively raising limits and penalties is the right way to drive progress in mass-production, the need for cleaner automobiles can't be denied, and I welcome policy that would pursue such action.
Cut back on defense funding to provide more spending in public transport, welfare, and education
—Here's an area I have to disagree with the Senator. While more funding is required in the areas she mentions, it certainly can't come at the expense of our national defense. If anything, we should be increasing the amount we spend on our military.
Further expand welfare for those afflicted by disability or are otherwise unable to work
—Commonsense legislation here, but something that disappointingly hasn't been done yet. We need to ensure that all citizens can survive no matter what their physical or mental state.
Further make Eshan's tax code a progressive and sustainable code
—Shorthand for tax the fuck out of the rich. I like it.
Greatly limit the total market share businesses are allowed to hold to increase market diversity and promote destructive creativity
—I'm hesitant on this proposal; it depends on how her administration defines market share. If it's too low, I don't think it would be impossible to hypothesize that businesses would be less incentivized to increase production capabilities. Too hight, and what's the point?
Increase taxes on the wealth, luxury and capitol gains, and mansion taxes
—Again, tax the rich, I like it. However, with so many proposed taxes a President Cruyff would have to take great care to avoid over taxing and driving out highly skilled individuals.
Devote more funding to science and research to advance the scientific community in Eshan and reap the benefits of such progress
—It's essential to continually push for Eshan's place at the forefront of the technological revolution by continuously funding and researching relevant material. I am happy to see a pledge from Senator Cruyff to go after such measures.
Join in the creation of an Atlantian Oceania Bloc or Union
—International organizations=good, especially if we're going to cut our defense forces.
Greatly increase the scope of the Echani National Park system by designating more land as National Park land
—I l o v e this. Ecological and environmental diversity is part of what makes Eshan so brilliant and beautiful, and it makes sense to further protect these areas.
Increase protections of ancient wilderness areas through broad and robust protection and anti-environmentally disturbing action legislation
—See above.
For every tree a company cuts down in Eshan, they are required to plant two more
—Now this is a very unique proposal that I completely stand behind. If you have to cut down a tree for business purposes, you should have to plant one to replace it and one to make up for all the other shit that goes on around the world. Unfortunate that it will take so long for the trees to regrow and replace the original.
Greatly regulate the use of pesticides and other foodstuff modifying tools, including GMOs
—Onboard with pesticides, however it can't be denied that some additives certainly have overall benefits in food supply. Will be watching this proposal closely.
Introduce legislation requiring that every new building in Eshan be required to obtain a Green-Construction rating
—Further action towards environmentally sustainable design, I appreciate such measures as a way to reduce our overall national environmental impact.
Immediately introduce a 30% renewable energy standard to begin pushing back Eshan's environmental impact on day one
—While a renewable energy standard is certainly something I want to see in Eshan, implementing such an aggressive policy on day one will dramatically affect the energy market right off the bat, and major shockwaves will be sent through the system.
Increase the control local councils and planning boards have on development and urbanization
—Who better knows the needs of the environment then the local communities that interact with them day after day? More control to local communities on how to address urbanization, fragmentation, and general environmental concerns will result in more fitting solutions.
Designate more areas of sea around Eshan as protected marine reserves and limited fishing grounds
—Again, good legislation to protect the brilliant richness of our national waters and ensure that we can continue to fish in a sustainable manner for generations to come.
Ensure that areas of rich natural diversity are protected from development
—P R O T E C T T H E E N V I R O N M E N T .
Expand farming subsidies and by incentivizing the use of environmentally responsible and sustainable methods
—As more and more Echani move towards urban centers and choose to pursue secondary education over farming and rural communities, providing further subsidies to farming communities will help ensure we provide plenty of internal foodstuffs.
Provide Rural Development Grants to help all of Eshan move forward
—Help all of Eshan move forward.
Increase funding for urban farms within cities
—Interesting policy proposal that would help bring communities together while providing fresh food in the inner city. Hope they test the cleanliness though.
Increase the amount of parkland and green areas in urban centers
—This will increase the luxury time and relaxation for all of us, just getting to sit back, smoke a fat doobie, and watch some dogs run around. Love it.
Encourage free roam and organic farming practices
—It's good to have cage-free food because that's happier food, which is healthier food, which is a happier me!
Ban excessive use of antibiotics and other modifying chemicals including GMOs in our organic food supply
—Not totally sure about the GMO situation because some modifications certainly have beneficial side affects.
Ban all hunting aside from situations of overpopulation and Native Echani
—I would prefer to see hunting should be permitted in certain different areas on our islands.
Review with the intent to ban all animal fighting, racing, circuses, and forms of animal exploitation in sport and entertainment
—I hope an exception for horse racing is written into any bill in this legislation.
Totally prohibit all animal testing
—I'm not sure what we're going to test products on this seems like a loser but I invite someone to inform me otherwise with some non-SJW bullshit.
Increase the % of GDP devoted to environmental science and policy
—Headline: Green Party Candidate Proposes Higher Green Spending. Book it.
Provide green energy training for all employees in the non-renewable energy field
—This is a great way to help win over support from the working section of the population, no matter what their political leanings.
Institute a nationwide carbon tax
—As long as it's heavily progressive, this is a proposal I could stand in support of.
Institute a nationwide gas tax
—If it's low enough or perhaps vehicle dependent then this is something I could perhaps be won over on.
Institute a nationwide airplane tax
—Air travel is one of the most environmentally impactful forms of transport and instituting a small travel tax is a smart way to do things.
Set price controls for energy, water, and other natural utilities
—I could see a little opposition with this one in the Senate (well several others) but this one especially. However, the idea behind it is certainly a smart one as low utility costs contribute to greater citizen happiness and productivity.
Increase the amount of government constructed green energy 'farms'
—I approve. Green energy good, jobs produced good.
Ensure that all federal buildings have micro-generators such as onsite wind turbines or solar panels
—This policy would be smart to ensure that all federal buildings have local production and don't have to rely on long transmission so all can be devoted to citizen usage.
Nationalize the energy sector to greatly regulate, monitor, and review the energy sector to control all aspects of green energy production
—Whew. Good luck getting this through. I do think higher government intervention is necessary but not to this extent.
Limit the production of potentially dangerous nuclear power stations
—Smart. Don't totally cease production but construct these great sources of energy in locations where they can't easily impact centers of civilization.
Greatly study all ways in which Eshan can harness wave, tidal, and hydro power around the islands
—We do have a wealth of water resources available to us so it makes sense to aggressively pursue technological innovation in harnessing energy production by these sources.
Halt all non-renewable subsidies and transfer them to green energy production
—CoMmoN SEnSe LeGiSlAtIoN !
Pursue with all force the full implementation of equal rights for all races, ethnicities, sexes, sexual orientation, and gender identifications under law
—Equal rights=good. Say whaaaaaat?
Create a powerful review board with oversight over the national police and judicial systems to ensure that the full equal rights directive is being implemented as quickly as possible
—Again, this is a smart bit of business that would allow all Echani the equal protections they deserve to live life freely.
Provide federal funding for body cams for all police and military members
—This makes sense. We need to be able to see all aspects of what our police force is up to, plus military generals would be able to more quickly react to the situation by seeing directly from the eyes of our soldiers.
Provide equality and sensitivity situation training for all police forces in Eshan
—Equality yes, sensitivity? Feelings don't matter in law enforcement.
Greatly expand mental health funding and coverage in Eshan
Yes, mental health is a clear issue in our society, any modern day society to be honest, and it's essential that we properly address and treat it. Good policy here.
Ensure all public spaces are disabled-accessible
—I enjoy how many times I'm saying 'this makes sense' because……well…this makes sense.
Ensure that all public facilities reflect the diversity of their local communities
—Veryyyyy broad language here worries me; 'Ensure' that 'all' 'public facilities' 'reflect the diversity of their local communities'. Let's see what this means.
Implement nationwide community policing
—I enjoy this idea, it's essential for police officers to connect with their communities and understand the unique problems that beset each region in Eshan.
Open marriages for all sexual orientations and gender identities
—Equal rights good.
Teach LGBTQ+ sex education in school, along with an across the board expansion in time spent teaching sex education
—This is an interesting area; I'm in favor of an increase in sexual education, but will they make heterosexual and differing LGBTQ+ sit in on each other's education or will there be a fair of information or what's the deal?
Provide expanded health services at all public primary and secondary school institutions
—I like it so long as they don't treat some bumps and bruises like the end of the damn world.
Increase national healthcare funding
—A g a i n , this makes sense. It's essential that everyone is…ya know…healthy and happy.
Greatly increase hate crime punishments
—Hate crimes have no place in society, however I hope that our fundamental freedom of speech isn't infringed upon.
Ensure equal pay for the same job between all gender identifications and sexual orientations[i]
—"Pay everyone the same."
[i]Ensure that media portrays of body images are free from photoshop and other post-processing effects
—This I approve of in theory, however some post-processing is needed in many situations.
Increase and open maternity leave to both parents and increase duration and amount of time paid
—Raising a kid should be a new families priority, not worrying about work.
Outlaw pornography in Eshan
—I dislike this one for…reasons.
Increase funding for child support services
—Children are the future, and it is essential that the government properly look after them no matter what the cost.
Take all measures necessary to full end child poverty by 2025
—See above. Further, all poverty should be eliminated in Eshan, we certainly have the means to.
Increase government sponsorship and funding of youth clubs and other public projects to increase youth support in Eshan
—See two points above.
Provide free public transport for all young persons under the voting age of 18
—To be quite honest, I'm surprised that a Green Party candidate isn't making public transport totally free no matter what age.
Provide funding for graduated youths to pay University loans and ease purchasing of first houses an, cars, and other significant items
—I wish Senator Cruyff was President when I was in college.
Legalize the use of drugs
—I like this one for reasons like the vast majority of you do.
Institute a national single-payer healthcare system to provide proper and cheap medical aid to all Echani citizens
—Cheap, basically free healthcare? If I have to…
Increase the amount of public service officials, such as firemen, police officers, ambulance drivers
—Highly skilled job employment spike increasing amount of highly taxable workers. Smart.
Study and introduce a government sponsored healthy eating diet and subsidize items on that diet
—ThE gOvErNmeNt IS cOnTrOlLiNg WhaT WE eAt ! ! 1!!1! wE jUsT wANt FiSh
Greatly increase the number of medical facilites around the country
—This makes sense, it's essential to ensure that all citizens have easy and timely access to medical care.
Free public primary education starting from Pre-Kindergarden and through college
—This is sure to be an expensive proposition, but the proposed taxes should cover it. Education is essential, however by making fully free you open up the possibility of a decrease in education quality, however the next policy proposal would address that in theory.
Greatly increase the amount of teachers in our school system
—Feeding nicely into the previous policy ideal, increasing the amount of public education teachers would greatly improve the overall state of the public education system.
Increase natural world and green education in the education system
—This is a really neat policy idea. Schooling students in natural and environmental sciences will help to foster an air of responsibility, stewardship, and organic design in Eshan.
Increase time devoted to physical activity in schools
—Another policy I can get behind, a healthy population is a happy one! National prideeeeeee
Ban further creation of religious schools
—Whatever created the world and us is certainly no longer involved in our affairs. Useless to teach.
Remove all religious insignia and statements from government documents, buildings, money, and items
—Again, religion has no place in government.
Ensure that all newly created public infrastructure has a minimum amount of recycled materials
—I like this, get rid of our municipal solid waste while expanding public infrastructure, smart proposal by Senator Cruyff.
Greatly expand national recycling programs
—Green programs are good, the earth is good, environmentalism is good, this policy is good.
Greatly reduce the cost of public transport
—I think you'd be hard pressed to find anyone who would argue with cheaper public transport.
Greatly increase the breadth of public transport in Eshan
—More public transport, less choking emissions.
Ensure that all federal automobiles are electric or otherwise zero-emission
—I like this proposal, further ensure that the government is environmentally conscious and that will drive innovation in industry.
Treat drug addiction as a health issue
—Brilliant point from Senator Cruyff here, drug abuse and addiction is most certainly a public health issue, and the solution lies in treating it as such, not over-punishing offenders and ruining lives even further.
Prevent stop and search policing procedures
—Stop and search are blatant invasions of privacy and have their basis in racial profiling.
Ensure that every trial has a jury
—I love it. All crimes are important and deserve public oversight.
Ensure every person charged with a crime has access to a public defender
—Again, all crimes are important and deserve public oversight and proper access to legal defense.
Increase funding for public defenders
—See above.
Increase the amount of public defenders to reduce workload and increase specialization
—See above.
Commit to international use of diplomacy first
—I approve of this in theory, however cutting the size of the military directly reduces the strength behind our diplomatic words and actions. Strength begets diplomacy.
Provide funding and technologies for green development in urbanizing countries
—Developed and modern nations such as Eshan have a responsibility to third world nations and a directive to help them progress in an environmentally sustainable manner.

by **Qasden** » Mon Apr 17, 2017 10:37 pm

The nation of Qasden woke up brighter than ever two days ago when the Qasden National Football Team drew a high-scoring game against Semarland, 4-4, earning the country its first ever knockout-level qualification, finishing above Semarland, The Redvale, and Starblaydia.

The group stage was one heck of a roller coaster for the association, starting in the Capitalizt Dome in Chromatik City. Being apart of the opening match of AOCAF53, the Vans were met by an ultra-excited host Chromatika team, whom annihilated the Blue-Reds, 3-0, within the 90 minutes. It was one of the more embarrassing defeats to Qasden, but not enough to surpass the WC qualifier defeat to Faustii.

The second game saw TQ battle the historically famous Starblaydia squad. Champion of 4 world cups and even home to one of the footballing greats, the purple and black surprised our citizens when it played a lot less amazing than expected. Despite the initial lead, 2 second-half goals by Onyx Foster (54') and Icarus Darsten (73') led the Vans to a stunning victory over the vets.

Match day 3 was the most feared day of the tournament, as the Qads' opponent turned out to be italic ironclads, Audioslavia. The game was started by a surprise score from Jerry Bostun in the 15th minute, and was soon followed by silence. With Abbott being the brick wall he is, the Blue-Reds managed to pull off one of the most insane upsets of their history, sitting just below the 4-1 Valladares victory. Before we knew it, Qasden was in second.

Approaching the fourth day, TQ's next war placed them against the young guns of The Redvale. As the first game in the group of the day, the energy of all the players could not be as well as they were, with each side scoring (Foster 33') once. To much surprise and speculation, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Qasden the only possible contender to surpass the hosts.

Lastly, Qasden met familiar foes, Semarland. With mutual history dating back to AOCAF52 and furious history from the WC77 qualifiers (Tumbra agrees), T.V. City and Jansberg did not exactly see eye to eye, giving this game a new face. Goal after goal was scored, and in the end, a 4-4 result recorded 2 goals by Ryan Xandreas (12' & 47'), 1 from Valentijn Munson (32') and 1 from Chariot Hero (60'). The shock draw was just enough to keep Qasden two points above elimination, finishing behind 3-2-0 Chromatika and 3-0-2 Audioslavia.

The amazement of advancing has swept through the Alliance like wildfire. From parades and festivals apexing in T.V. City, to flares and riots in Parodys. The Vans will be travelling to the city of Pria, where they will face Eastern group runner-ups, Farfadillis. QFA and FFFF have previously met in AOCAF51, Qasden's debuting tournament, which left la Rojas 3 points richer. Coming off of a third-place finish in the World Cup, Farfadillis struggled early in Chromatika, Having only made a single point within the first 3 games of competition against Blouman Empire, 95X and Valanora. However, in the last 2 games of the group stage, la Rojas made a surprise comeback, pounding newbies, Taranga, 5-1, and ousting a hopeful Tallaga la Falla, 2-0, launching them up to second place. Despite the history, Coach Jon Merritt seems overall confident in his team.

"I do believe we have an advantage in this competition, just as in Ethane. The 8 points we have managed to conjure up outweigh our opponent's by 1, and our confidence has sharply risen following the wins over Starblaydia and Audioslavia. Either way, I'm excited to see the outcome in Pria, and I will be working hard to make sure that outcome lies in our favor.".

The winner of the match will travel to Deprí Sanar, where they will face the firebirds of Osarius for a spot in the semi-finals in Deprí Lanar.

That's all for this report. Can the Vans avenge their AOCAF51-selves and defeat Farfadillis? Will La Rojas prove their bronze strength and pummel TQ? Only one bubble can be filled, so stay tuned, stay updated, and stay alert for future reports, live from the country of Chromatika!

by **Chromatika** » Mon Apr 17, 2017 11:35 pm

Play-In Round Cutoff

Play-In Round
Audioslavia 1–0 95X
Eshan 2–0 Western Sunrise Islands
Farfadillis 3–2 Qasden
Cosumar 0–1 Krytenia

Play-In Round
July 27 12 PM Audioslavia 1:0 95X - The Shock, Wirr Tsi | 3:25 PM Eshan 2:0 Western Sunrise Islands - Riders' Arena, Pùr
July 28 4:35 PM Farfadillis 3:2 Qasden - The Pack, Pria | 4:35 PM Cosumar 0:1 Krytenia - The Jungle, Eyrods

Quarterfinals
August 1 1:10 PM Vilita & Turori vs. Audioslavia - United Center, Urrheddiao | 4:35 PM Chromatika vs. Krytenia - RCK Field, Alnio
August 2 3:25 PM Osarius vs. Farfadillis - The Hive, Deprí Sanar | 6:40 PM Valanora vs. Eshan - Z'ai'ai Field, Z'ai'ai

Semifinals
August 6 3:35 PM Vilita & Turori/Audioslavia vs. Valanora/Eshan - Anomaly Tower, Chromatik City | 7:25 PM Chromatika/Krytenia vs. Osarius/Farfadillis - Hawks' Nest, Deprí Lanar

3rd Place Match
August 9 6:40 PM Semifinal Loser vs. Semifinal Loser - Island Dome, Myana

AOCAF LIII Championship
August 10 7:25 PM Semifinal Winner vs. Semifinal Winner - Capitalizt Dome, Chromatik City

by **Chromatika** » Tue Apr 18, 2017 5:59 pm

The news hadn't been received well by the team, nor Silian Parker. Why would a goalkeeper leave in the middle of his prime, when he had the greatest motivator of all, a fierce competitor that would push him along to be even better? What about the fact that he had a younger sister?

To say that it didn't affect the Chromatiks performance would be a lie. Sure, they scored fourteen goals. However, they let in an astonishing total of eight over their matches, including four against The Redvale, and finished with three wins and two draws in their AOCAF at home. It did give them a bye into the quarterfinals, and they were able to watch two of their regional archrivals play against each other: Krytenia defeated Cosumar by a score of 1:0, setting up a rematch of the last AOCAF final.

It is true that the two of them were in the last World Cup Qualifying group together, and that the Chromatiks dominated both legs of that tournament, but the defeat in AOCAF LII is still fresh in the players' minds, and especially if this is to be Thorben's last tournament (the others are really trying to get him to change his mind), it will be a result of an even greater importance. RCK Field in Alnio will bear witness to the match.

Kaytlyn Victoriane has been the bright light, combining with Keira Andisori to prove that the new formation will not be short of goals. Alyss Montague and Sandra Sybill have been instrumental in providing a lot of playmaking in the form of assists, but at times their limited nature as an offensive minded player has led to the opposing side's counterattacks having more success against the Chromatiks than in the past. The Chromatik game has become less of a physical-based nature and more of a tempo game, where they need to possess the ball more and create more opportunities in order to keep the ball from entering their third of the pitch against them.

If there is one last shining light, it is that the fans have no idea of the struggles happening in the locker room, the discussions and the arguments with Nikolai to have him remain. If they did, what would they say? Nobody can guess the reply to that question, which is why the information has been kept under lock at key. Nikolai claims that he wanted people to have time to understand and to come to terms before he disappears for good, but there are times when it seems as if the situation would have been cleaner had he just disappeared after the tournament.

"That is not my way. People here are important enough to hear it from me before I go, instead of just realizing it after I am gone," he would proclaim. However, in that mind of his, they weren't important enough for him to stay. Not after his childhood, not after his life, not after his career.

For what awaited for him afterwards, by taking up the invitation to join the Sunrisians at New Eden, was a fresh start at a new life, not beholden to anyone or anything. No more destructive childhood trying to prevent his parents' attitude and fighting from affecting his sister. No more constant fighting in the streets to keep gangs and bullies from affecting his life. No more government agencies trying to recruit him to join their cause and keep the Party upright instead of pursuing his dreams as a footballer. No more agents and coaches that told him all that he needed to be and should have been. The National Team and the Islanders had been his escape, but he had known for a while that this day was coming. If anything, he was glad that New Eden was an alternative, for anything else would have been far worse. He hadn't been sleeping well, he had nightmares that haunted him, and his sports psychologist had told him that he would need to stop playing soon just so he could take care of himself.

But he didn't want to tell his teammates, his family, all that. It would cause more pain and more questions. Instead, he'd just say he wanted to travel to a faraway land, to explore a new culture, to live a life that would not pale in comparison to any others. That his dream was to be free. And that would all be true, but all be not true at the same time.

Sometimes, the truth set people free. Other times, it just hurt people for no reason at all.

This was one of those times.

by **95X** » Tue Apr 18, 2017 9:40 pm

End of the Line

The day began as normal at evilempire, the largest and most ubiquitous retailer in 95X.

Suddenly, the card readers at the checkstands stopped working, a major problem in a nation without physical currency.

"In electronics!" an out-of-shape clerk yelled as they ran past the checkstands. "Someone has the news on there!"

A crowd of customers had abandoned their carts and gathered around the TVs; 'associates', as evilempire called them, left their assigned places and joined the crowd as 9BC "Breaking News" coverage was aired.

"We knew today would be tough on the financial sector as major international business has picked up elsewhere in Atlantian Oceania," the anchor said, "and the Pacific City Index has responded with a seven-percent drop. However, it doesn't explain reports we're receiving that point-of-sale terminals are down across the country."

As anyone started talking, someone would "shhh!" them.

"We are now receiving word that Bank of X President and CEO Zachary Stanford will make a public announcement at the top of the hour, only minutes away. 9BC News has confirmed the topic of the announcement has to do with the point-of-sale outage. 9BC News has also learned the power grid has failed in parts of the country, and one person is dead at a Burger Land in Weeksberg after jumping the counter in attempt to take a hamburger after the store manager stated they could not sell it to them. Reports of other rioting across the country are also making their way into the newsroom."

After a few minutes of similar reports, Zachary Stanford, a middle-aged, bald man, took to a podium with a pale look on his face. The news would not be good. He takes a deep breath and begins speaking.

"For decades," Stanford reads from a prepared statement, "Bank of X has provided the currency services for 95Xers to purchase goods and services both at home and abroad. Bank of X also handles currency conversions between the 95X Transfer and other currencies."

He takes a long pause and wipes his brow. He's visibly sweaty.

"At 9:29 AM, 95X Standard Time, Bank of X received a call on the full balance of a security against itself. Bank of X lacks the means of paying this balance and the creditor has refused all noncash options, including full ownership of Bank of X in lieu of full cash payment. At 9:43 AM, this creditor issued an order to our network infrastructure contractor to cease operation of the computer systems necessary for mission-critical operations, including our point-of-sale systems at one-hundred percent of 95X businesses. As we have no means of fulfilling the draw on the full balance, effective immediately, Bank of X is closing all branches, laying off one-hundred percent of its employees, ceasing all operations, and declaring itself insolvent."

Xi Foureleven watched from afar, in a sovereign yet foreign territory once under the 95X umbrella. She was glad she left when she did. Though she cared deeply for SC Oceanside and others in her life, Sarah and now Jordyn were those she held dear.

Her husband was gone. Her country was gone.

Xi rarely showed emotion, however she felt a tear drop from her jaw onto her arm. Then another. And another. As she was in private, she pulled off her shirt, an SC Oceanside one to be exact, held it to her face and cried.

Panic ensued. The 95X Transfer was worthless. Foreign trade ground to a halt with shipments en route to 95X turned around to their country of origin. Individuals lost one-hundred percent of their net worth. Businesses lost one-hundred percent of their value. There was no means for business transactions to take place, and no government to bail anyone out. A foreign air and sea blockade made sure 95Xers stayed in their defunct territory while any and all foreigners left the country. For all practical purposes, this was it; 95X ceased to exist.

by **Valanora** » Wed Apr 19, 2017 10:33 pm

Valanora Times
Asserting Power

This AOCAF has been one where the Marauders have showed that they are quite back to being one of the world's premier footballing powers, after going unbeaten in the group stage with the only game that they dropped points in was the opening game against fellow Southwestern rivals Farfadillis. That same Farfadillis that is considered one of the dark horses of both the full international arena as well as the region, having the association that is one of the most successful in the AOCL as well as having two AOCAF titles in their history, with being well known across the world for employing the System Takil made (in)famous by Southern Atlantian Ocenia nations of Bettia and Northern Bettia several decades ago. The former of which went on to win the World Cup on multiple occasions with the all out attack system employed.

However even when facing off against the Farves as well as 95X, another nation of history of some note including a recent AOCAF title but sadly seems to have collapses completely in the last few days, the Marauders have prevailed with very little problems. With Hawk and Soldarian at the middle of the pitch dominating affairs, the attack has been able to be lethal with an outstanding sixteen goals to their name and the defense has been quite rugged as well with only five goals conceded, with the Farves making up half of those conceded in the first game against. It truly has been a display of footballing power that Valanora was synonymous with for nearly a hundred years before falling off that pace for a few years roughly fourteen years ago.

That dominance is going to be put to the test in the Quarterfinals however, with a good squad in the form of Eshan being the foes for the Marauders, a side that collected ten points through the group stage and finishing ahead of the legendary Krytenia in the Western Group. Eshan seems to play quite a similar style as to our own, with a rather formidable attack but not lacking in the defensive area either, as evidenced by their ten goals for and only four conceded through the group stage, the strength that allowed them to see out matches against Kyrgustan in order to make the knockout stages. It will be a clash not of opposing styles but of who is able to play the style to most efficient and starve the other of possession and effectively out of the match that will be the key to victory for both sides.

That being said, with as well as the Marauders have been playing here in Chromatika, you have to believe that the experience and form all points towards the Marauders' favor. They have been this far in the tournament on multiple occasions and have yet to look uncomfortable for the entire tournament, where Eshan has had to struggle through some of their matches, even in the play-in round against the Western Sunrise Islands despite most of the Islanders having already ventured off to Eden. This is not a matter of skill, as the Marauders have all the skill in the world, it is a matter of want to and for a side that has been in such good form, the want to is definitely there. Look for the hero quartet to assert their dominance in the same fashion as they have done numerous times in the past and the Marauders move forward to the semifinals, where a matchup with either the Bulls of Audioslavia or the combined Vilitan and Turori squad will be quite the tasty affair.

by **Chromatika** » Wed Apr 19, 2017 11:00 pm

Quarterfinals Cutoff

Quarterfinals
Vilita & Turori 1–3 Audioslavia
Chromatika 2–2 Krytenia (3–2 AET) Scorinated by Schottia
Osarius 0–1 Farfadillis
Valanora 5–2 Eshan

Play-In Round
July 27 12 PM Audioslavia 1:0 95X - The Shock, Wirr Tsi | 3:25 PM Eshan 2:0 Western Sunrise Islands - Riders' Arena, Pùr
July 28 4:35 PM Farfadillis 3:2 Qasden - The Pack, Pria | 4:35 PM Cosumar 0:1 Krytenia - The Jungle, Eyrods

Quarterfinals
August 1 1:10 PM Vilita & Turori 1:3 Audioslavia - United Center, Urrheddiao | 4:35 PM Chromatika 2:2 (3:2 AET) Krytenia - RCK Field, Alnio
August 2 3:25 PM Osarius 0:1 Farfadillis - The Hive, Deprí Sanar | 6:40 PM Valanora 5:2 Eshan - Z'ai'ai Field, Z'ai'ai

Semifinals
August 6 3:35 PM Audioslavia vs. Valanora - Anomaly Tower, Chromatik City | 7:25 PM Chromatika vs. Farfadillis - Hawks' Nest, Deprí Lanar

3rd Place Match
August 9 6:40 PM Semifinal Loser vs. Semifinal Loser - Island Dome, Myana

AOCAF LIII Championship
August 10 7:25 PM Semifinal Winner vs. Semifinal Winner - Capitalizt Dome, Chromatik City

AOCAF LIII Everything Thread

95X AOCAF 53 MD 5 RP

95X AOCAF 53 Final RP

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